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Buying A Boxer Puppy? Finding Your Puppy -- Buying From the Breeder The conscientious breeder plans a breeding to reproduce the best characteristics of an outstanding sire or dam. His guide is the official AKC Standard of the breedthe written "blueprint" that helps keep the breed uniform for generations to come. You can find the breed standard, revised in , at the American Boxer Club website: www. The more common disappointments for pet purchasers come from commercial sources--especially pet shops that often buy puppies from the infamous "puppy mills" that take little notice of the quality or health they are producing. The pet store or dog broker will sell you a puppy with a breeder's name attached to the paperwork--but this puppy may easily have been born in a puppy mill. The reputable breeder, on the other hand, will not only be able to demonstrate the pedigree and registration papers, but will also show you either the sire or dam themselves, or pictures of the parent who may be owned elsewhere. Though the mere presence of "papers" does not guarantee good health, conformation, or temperament, you will most often find these attributes in the puppy who has been raised with loving care in the home or kennel of a conscientious hobby breeder. The serious breeder often strives to produce a potential "champion. Sometimes the distribution of white markings alone may make the difference between the so-called "pet" and show-potential puppy. The pet puppy will have benefited from the same proven bloodlines, nutrition, and medical care as its "champion" littermate. His breeder will have health tested the parents and done the best he can to insure good temperament, soundness, and longevity. Here is your best buy. Boxer magazines publish ads from breeders. The American Boxer Club web site www. Usually any time after weeks. Many states have regulations regarding minimum age. However, your individual circumstances must be considered. Do you have the time to spend with a very young puppy? Will someone be home to housebreak him? Would an exuberant 6-month old puppy overwhelm a tiny child? Or would he be better matched with a 6-year-old youngster? Remember too that the puppy under 3 months needs lots of time to rest. Don't forget that adult dogs, already trained, also make ideal pets. While much can be told at six to eight weeks about the puppy's eventual looks, if you are seeking a show prospect you might be better off waiting until the pup is six to eight months of age. At that time, be prepared to pay a higher price for all the additional time and effort that the breeder has spent raising the show potential Boxer. Male or Female? This choice is a matter of personal preference. Both males and females make admirable pets. Breeding is a serious committment of time, energy, and money, and not to be taken lightly. If breeding is not anticipated, it may be appropriate to spay or neuter your dog. This procedure is best done as your Boxer approaches adolescence. Please be aware that these surgeries should be discussed with your veterinarian as to safety of anesthesia and any long term effects other than sterilization. Spayed and neutered animals are not eligible to compete in the conformation ring but may be shown in performance events. Check this list! Tails should have been docked within a few days of birth. Optional removal of front dewclaws fifth toes is done at the same time. The Boxer has no rear dewclaws. Ear cropping is customary and appropriate but not required--it is a matter of personal preference. Uncropped ears are permitted under the breed standard. If cropped, this procedure is done under general anesthesia, usually between six and nine weeks of age. If the puppy is taken before cropping, the breeder usually makes arrangements. The breeder also advises regarding aftercare and taping if ears are not already standing. Sometimes this is a lengthy process. In the male, both testicles should be descended into the scrotum. They should be in place by two to three months of age. A dog with undescended testicles may still make a fine pet, though he would be ineligible to compete in the conformation show ring. Consult your veterinarian for advice. Avoid the unusually quiet, inactive puppy, or the one that might shy away from you. This might mean a fault in temperament or even ill health. Papers the Seller Should Furnish: a. A three or four generation pedigree signed by the seller. There should be no extra charge for this. The pedigree preferably gives the color of the sire and dam, and the AKC registration numbers of each. The registration from the AKC, which is an official document identifying your puppy's individual registration number, sex, birth date, sire and dam, and name of the breeder s. There are two ways to register puppies for the first time: 1 Limited Registration If the puppy is not to be bred, and is being purchased only as a companion pet, the breeder may check off the Limited Registration option. This does register the puppy with the AKC. However, it does not allow any registration of offspring from the mature dog. The breeder and only the breeder can cancel the limited registration should the puppy at maturity be considered of breeding quality. Records the Breeder Should Furnish: a. Date and type of vaccines given. Depending on the type of vaccination program started, your veterinarian will advise you on following through. Vaccination protocols are evolving even among the medical professionals. Date and agent used for worming, if done. Do not worm your puppy without consulting your veterinarian. Avoid store-bought preparations which can be dangerous. Diet your puppy has been receiving. It is well to maintain the regimen begun by the breeder, especially while the puppy is adjusting to his new home. If changes are to be made. When he is an adult it will be wise to maintain your Boxer on two smaller meals a day. Like her sisters, Princess Rhaenyra is a perfect addition to a loving family that will give her the attention she loves so she can give it right back. She really loves to run in the grass with her sisters and our adult Shepherd mix. We absolutely are loving our time with her! I know how to sit!!!!! I am so proud of myself, are you proud of me, too? I'm Rhaenyra, born March 16th, and I'm an active and fun puppy - you know, silly, goofy, amusing, energetic, and I love balls or other toys. I am practicing to be a lap dog - I adore attention from my humans. I would do anything to please them. At a recent checkup, I weighed 30 lbs. It is hard to say what size I will be as an adult.Momma is about 60 pounds and we're not sure who dad is. Wondering how we got here? Momma Angela was living in brush by a gas station in Victorville, CA, and came to the parking lot every day at the same time for food. Eventually Momma was trapped and, well, she was very pregnant. She had us about 5 days later. I am one of the girl puppies and am such a pretty creamy color and the bestest smile. Ready to adopt me? Say yes! Make my day! September 14, , pm.

If a reservation fee is placed, the balance is due when you choose your puppy. This only applies to families that are going onto the waitlist not to puppies that are openly available. We do not accept payment at pick up. We do not accept PayPal or Venmo. We send out an email letting you know that choosing will begin, including details of the litter. You need to respond as needed and do so promptly. Check the pictures and videos of the litter you might choose from and have your top three picked out. When we contact you directly via text or call, offering you a choice, you have 2 hours to make your decision. We understand a family's excitement for their potential new family member, so as soon as there are updates to be had, we will send our announcements as posts on our Instagram and Facebook pages. The LK team will go through our waitlist when puppies are available of a certain size and generation to the families on that same size and generation waitlist. You may not be on multiple lists. If you want to know more about the Waitlist Process, watch this video. We will post birth announcements to our Instagram page. He so much enjoys playing with all his toys, running, and yes, zooming too. Growing and learning every day, we are constantly amazed at his intelligence. He is such a lovebug, and is learning more and more that he loves all the attention he gets everyday. Yes, he has a way to go to get full house privileges, but he improves every day, and is enjoying his earned freedoms. Checking DNA, blood lines, and parent dogs for the most desirable characteristics barely touches the surface of all the behind the scenes work that assures anyone who is interested in obtaining a pup from Pacific Northwest Doodles that they are going to have the most wonderful pup to bring them joy for years and years. She had been walking us through the whole adoption process and sending us frequent updates and pictures of our little guy and his siblings for the past couple of months. You better believe these puppies were cute! We were so excited to meet Benjamin! As a bonus, we got to meet his mom Pixie as well. She is such a sweet and friendly dog! We knew that our Ben came from a loving home and would be a wonderful addition to our family. What I didn't know was that I'd just brought home my best friend. Thank you Jennifer for all that you do!!! Each and every day is a blessing. This is the breeder to contact. PNWD made sure to listen and understand what I was hoping for in a companion dog. With that information, they helped me choose the most amazing puppy. Codi is intelligent, willing to try anything, go everywhere and settle for hours while in the office. Training has been a dream and those we interact with in parkour, farm agility, obedience, tricks, hiking, rally, therapy work, travel and more are taken with her gentle nature and avid happy engagement with any activity. Bordoodle is my breed and Pacific Northwest Doodles are my source. We are so grateful for the intentional care he received early in life. He came to us at eight weeks with a beautifully settled nervous system. He is calm and engaged and cuddly, and yet a real go-getter outside chasing the ball or frisbee or playing with other dogs. He loves people and is bright as a button and extremely quick to learn. Five stars is not enough! November now and Bing is 7 months old. Bing was appropriately cautious at first, but happily swam out to meet his friends with me holding him around the torso for moral support. Within minutes he was confidently swimming on his own, paddling across the pool at speed to retrieve rubber chickens. It was pure delight to see his enthusiasm and prowess! He is healthy and strong and a joy to be with. Bing is our first dog and we owe great appreciation to Jen for setting us on a good course for puppy training and nutrition. One more thought. This cross breed is as smart as you would expect. Bing loves all kinds of games and puzzles. He liked nothing better than to engage with us in some new challenge, and then have a good cuddle to celebrate success. Jennifer kept us in the loop as the pregnancy progressed and we were delighted with pictures and video clips of the pups minutes after they were born. When we picked Quinn aka Barbie from Hazel's bordoodle litter up in March, it was clear that the cuddly, sweet-tempered puppy had been well socialized, well loved, and well cared for. She has a sweet disposition, gets along extremely well with other dogs and people and is very smart and eager to please. Jennifer provided plenty of advice on training and veterinary care. Can't recommend Jennifer highly enough! This is the program widely used for service and military dogs to prepare them for anything that might come their way. A wonderful start for therapy dog training. Feeding Program We start our puppies with raw goat milk and then move on to raw meat, canned food, goat milk, soaked Blue Buffalo Lamb for Puppies, raw egg, cottage cheese, kefir, raw bones, and veggies to give them the best start in life possible. This article from Dogs Naturally really helped me gain more understanding about feeding raw. In Lynden, we purchase raw meat from Lynden Meats. Health Testing We never breed our dogs before they have been fully health tested; both physically and genetically for any diseases these breeds may be pre-dispositioned for. We test hips, elbows, patellas, heart , and eyes — along with a full disease and traits panel by Embark Vet for any disease traits the dogs may possibly carry for. This is a vital piece that many unschooled breeders miss. If a dog carries for a disease, such as Degenerative Myelopathy , it is imperative that the dog is NEVER bred to another carrier of this disease. Without proper genetic testing by facilities like Embark and Paw Prints , the breeder will never know the true results of the pairing. Another important factor in breeding is coat traits. These are what give the puppy its coloration and doodle-like coat. Kim has been breeding Bernedoodles for many years, and she has been an amazing mentor for me. Click on the Our Dogs tab to see what we test for and the results for each of our dogs. Grooming Doodles have a coat that is constantly growing, and although it is essentially light to non-shedding, they can shed when they are going through heat cycles, when they blow out their puppy coat, or when the weather is warmer. This coat needs to be brushed on a regular basis which will also reduce any shedding that may happen, and should be professionally groomed every two months for a gorgeous fluffy coat. Guardian Homes Available We are occasionally looking for suitable homes for our breeding dogs as believe in quality — not quantity. Sometimes we have an exceptional puppy we would like to retain for our breeding program but our household can realistically only retain two — three dogs. You can take a look at our Guardian Home Agreement here click on the small photo to bring up the larger image. To be considered as a guardian home, you must live in Whatcom County, have a fenced yard, and someone must be at home most of the day. Healthy Warranty Because we have done all our homework up front with full physical and genetic health testing on all our dogs and any dogs we use for breeding purposes, we are able to offer a generous two-year health warranty on your puppy. Check out our full warranty here so you can proceed with full confidence that we will stand behind our puppies. Once the puppies are five weeks of age, they start going outside as soon as they awake in the morning, and we start the bell-training at this time. We also start the crate training process for you, saving you some sleepless nights. I love and recommend Baxter and Bella whole-heartedly. Please note, adult coloration is not guaranteed as some dogs can fade with age, and this is not something we can predict. Puppy must be spayed before 1. Your puppy will also come with a vet well-check from Whatcom Veterinary Hospital , will be current on vaccinations and deworming, and will be micro-chipped with ID Tag registration. Each puppy will be sent home with at least a leash, collar, toy, blanket that smells like mom and siblings, and starter food. We start the potty-training process for you and begin crate training to make the transition easier for you and your puppy. We start the training by placing kennels in their play area with free access, and after several days, we start placing puppies in crates with a sibling. After three or four nights of this, they are placed in individual kennels. Finally, we also provide ongoing support for your concerns and questions whenever they may arise for as long as you need us. Transportation Shipping is recommended via a flight nanny or personal pickup. Delivery is also available on a limited basis. If using a flight nanny, the puppy would be delivered by the breeder to the flight nanny at Seatac or Bellingham Intl airports. Cloud Nine Doodles also offers the option to fly the puppy personally to the airport of choice, on a limited basis. This can reduce a lot of stress and anxiety for the puppy who is flying with someone they are familiar with. Flight nannies can be recommended by the breeder but must be chosen by the buyer and approved by the breeder. Ground delivery by the breeder is sometimes available. For more information on why we prefer to wait until the puppy has reached puberty, you can read a great article from Mercola here. De-sexing is always a healthier option, but it does cost more. Spaying or neutering before puberty will void the two-year health warranty as we feel it drastically affects the health of the puppy. Vaccinations We believe in the importance of initial vaccinations for the health of the puppy. We do not give the first vaccination until the puppy is 7. It is recommended that the puppy receive its 2nd and 3rd boosters three to four weeks apart. Rabies should never be given before five months of age, and should not be given together with any other vaccine. The protocol for vaccine schedules is changing. To determine if your adult dog requires a vaccination, and to find out what is safe for your younger puppy, please study Dr. Most vaccines protect for up to five years, once all puppy vaccinations have been given. Do NOT give your puppy the Lepto vaccination. Puppies should not be taken to places like dog parks or schools where many dogs spend a lot of time. Never take your puppy to these places until all vaccinations have been given. We like to use this test to make sure we have the puppies pegged correctly — which can help guide us in placing the correct puppy in the correct home. For instance, we would not want to place an energetic puppy in a home with small children who might be overwhelmed, but realize this would be a better fit for an active family with teenagers. We do allow our prospective families to pick their puppy, at seven weeks, based on the order in which their deposit was placed, but we help guide them in the decision making process by sharing our observations of the puppies during the first weeks of their lives. Many videos will also be shared as the puppies grow to help each family watch the behavior of the puppies during different stages of growth. Many families already have a pretty good idea of which puppy will be the best fit for them before the actual picking process even begins. Every family is allotted 1. I had never seen this level of separation anxiety in a dog, to the point of tearing apart a kennel and shredding blinds if left alone the house. Amy patiently helped me work through all these issues and this dog is now a well-respected member of another family, and he absolutely loves his crate and can be left alone when needed. Amy is a certified service dog trainer, and she has so many excellent training tricks I had never even thought of. She makes training a breeze from the comfort of your home utilizing her hundreds of videos, live classes, and even one-on-one phone calls. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Mercer Island Washington and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups!

Labradoodles come in many colors! We specifically select our parents to your puppies based on specific criteria including health, temperament, size and color. To meet all the possible color and size needs of our families we try and ensure a color mix every year along with a range of sizes even in our small program. Again, temperament and family personality fit should come first when selecting a dog. We suggest you stay open, meet all the puppies and select based on multiple criteria. Parti Labradoodle What is a parti labradoodle? Parti labradoodles are two color dogs. Genetically the dog is the color, so a black and white parti labradoodle is technically a black labradoodle that expresses parti. The parti portion is the white coloring over the other color much like a swiss cheese pattern allowing the other color to come thru. Please remember there is no accommodation at Rainmaker Ranch Labradoodles for a specific parti pattern you may want based on their photos over the first 8 weeks. We will continue to place all parti puppies based on color and gender and not on where that color pattern is located. Our mission to provide the best puppy based on temperament and health to each family. We understand that families may have a preference in pattern as the puppies grow, but we want you to understand each puppy has a unique personality based on the temperament testing we run weekly. In turn, that temperament testing matches one family profile better than another. We only accept families to our wait list that also have the same goal of obtaining the best puppy based on temperament over pattern placement. At this point our puppies have a generally consistent middle of the road personality which is what we have spent the last 15 years breeding towards. However, even within that middle of the road personality not too shy and not too rambunctious we note difference which leads one puppy to be better with kids, or other dogs, or cats or the retired couple over the family with kids or traveling often. We will not alter this plan based on your position on the wait list or any other reasons other than personality match to a family profile. This is a series of alleles within genes that may or may not be transferred to your puppy from his or her parents and may or may not be masked by other genes. In a nut shell, it is impossible to determine reliably at weeks of age. We only accept families to our wait list that also have our goal of obtaining the best puppy based on temperament over the coat lightening possibility. Please understand we think health and temperament is the most important criteria in selecting a puppy. When you have the perfect fleece coat, not too curly like a poodle and you have removed the harsher texture, you finally achieve Black Silk. Black Silk is super shiny. Think of it like paint sheen, you have gloss paint and flat paint, well Black Silk is like gloss paint. The color maintains this shine unlike some of the other colors, it is really quite beautiful and although black is genetically common, Black Silk is rare. Sable or Brindle Labradoodle This link will take you to more photos of Sable and Brindle puppies and dogs. Labradoodles and Australian Labradoodle dogs and puppies. One of the unique features of Australian Labradoodles is the wide variety of coat colors and patterns. While Labradoodle colours are interesting, we maintain that you are buying a living creature and not a coat colour. It is essential to retain the appearance of an Australian Labradoodle within the breed standard, but we feel charging for colour is not a fair practice. Van Isle Doodles looks for families whose focus is on adding a labradoodle puppy as a family member to their home. Depending on the intensity of the pigment, a red dog may appear to be a deep red color all the way to a light brown color. Cream Cream labradoodles range from almost white through to latte depending on the intensity of the pigment. This is our Bruno Mars who is a light cream color with black leathers. Black Black Labradoodles range from jet black to silver. This is Cinder Ella an example of a jet black Labradoodle. Chocolate Chocolate Australian Labradoodles range from a milk chocolate color when pigment is diluted to deep, dark chocolate when pigment is intensified. Oceana middle is a dark chocolate Labradoodle with brown leathers. Caramel Caramel ranges from a creamy color to a darker red. The brown leathers make the dog caramel rather than red. Here are some examples of our caramel dogs. Parti Labradoodless can come in any color. This is our caramel and white parti girl, Bernadette. Phantom A phantom is a solid color with tan points. The markings are similar to those found on Yorkies, Rottweilers and Dobermans. Tan points for the phantom pattern are pips above the eyes, along the side of the jaw, a band across the chest, run halfway up all four legs, on the vent and sometimes on the underside of the tail. Phantoms may be either black Labradoodles or Chocolate Labradoodles. Dexter is a chocolate phantom Labradoodle. Tri A tri colored Labradoodle is a phantom plus white. A tri Labradoodle may be black or chocolate. This is Tawnee who is a black tri. Sable A sable Labradoodle has each single hair in their coat banded by color. Each strand of hair has two colors. The tip of the strand will be either black or brown and the color at the root may be red, tan or apricot. Because the top inch or so of the strands of hair are either black or chocolate, at birth a sable Labradoodle will appear to be a black or chocolate dog. Once the strands start to grow out, the change color becomes visible. The amount of time it takes to see the second color varies from birth through to about six weeks of age. Since Labradoodles do not shed, at least as little as any dog is capable of not shedding, they do not generally grow new strands of hair. Once a sable Labradoodle has been groomed, the dark chocolate or black tips are lost and the dog then becomes red or tan in color. This is Ripple our chocolate sable parti girl. Brindle Labradoodles are not common. This puppy is a brindle Labradoodle. If you look at his feet, you will notice the stiped pattern of his color. Van Isle Labradoodles. Contact Us Labradoodle Colors Australian Labradoodle coat colors colours come in a wide variety of options. Below is a listing of the different coat colors, coloring descriptions and what to expect with their coats throughout their lifetime. Caramel Caramel colored dogs have liver noses brown. Their range of coat color can vary between light yellow to almost red in hue. The difference in a caramel dog and a chalk, cream, apricot and red dog is their nose color. Chocolate True chocolates are brown in color. Many chocolates do fade over time. Cream This color comes in a wide variety of shades but it should be creamy in appearance. The nose pigment is black. The pigment for the nose is black. Parchment This color is a creamy beige chocolate color. It has been described as a cup of coffee with a generous addition of milk. These dogs are born milk chocolate and will develop their parchment coloring over time. The nose pigment is rose. Red True reds should be rich and dark in color and the roots should be no lighter. Sadly, this coat color tends to fade over time. The nose color is to be black. This color develops over the first years. Nose pigment should be rose. Chalk This color is a white looking color. However, if you were to compare it to a true white, it would appear to be more chalk-white in color. Nose pigment is black. Black Black Labradoodles should be solid in color with no sprinklings of other colors throughout the coat. Their pigment color should be black. Silver These pups would start out black and their silver coloring develops over the first few years of their lives. The color range can be anywhere from a light pewter to a dark charcoal. Silver dogs need to have black pigmentation. The blue coat will develop over the first few years. The color should be solid once they are full grown. It should be a dark-medium smoky blue. Lavender This color has a smoky lavender chocolate coloring that almost gives off a pink to lilac appearance. These pups are born chocolate and will come into their beautiful lavender coats over the first few years. Their pigmentation should be rose in color. Parti These dogs need to be at least fifty percent white, with spots or patches of any other above solid color. Full or partial saddles are acceptable, but are not preferred. Ticking in the white of the coat is acceptable but not preferred. The nose pigment needs to match the solid color. Any combination of acceptable colors is allowed. Nose pigment should follow requirements listed above based on the solid base color. Information and photos republished with permission from Australian Labradoodle Association Save Ready for your puppy? Due to their genetic makeup, their coat color may change once the adult coat comes up. The most common Labradoodle coat shades are chocolate, caramel, red, cream, and parti. Coat Shades of the Labradoodle Chocolate: Born in a black shade, these Labradoodles turn a chocolate brown color when they grow up. The nose pigment is a rose shade with amber or brown eyes. Sometimes, the color of their skin may also be blue. Cafe: Born a chocolate brown color, these Labradoodle coats lightens over time. Nose pigment is a rose or chocolate color with a tint of hazel. The eyes are generally a brown shade. Parchment: Born a milky chocolate color and turning a smoky cream color when grown up. The nose pigment color is rose or brown. Caramel: Slightly darker than a cream Labradoodle, close to the color of caramel candy. These pups have rose colored nose pigment with a hint of honey along with hazel or amber eyes. Apricot: Born with a lighter color coat, similar to the caramel colored Labradoodle, that darkens over time. Their nose pigment color is typically black. Apricot Cream: With apricot colored ears, these Labradoodles have a lightly shaded coat. The color is usually warm cream with black nose pigment. Red: The rarest color of Labradoodle coat shades, these pups have a black nose pigment. They are also the hardest to breed. Cream: When born, these Labradoodles are slightly darker. Later they turn to a warm cream color. The nose pigment is black or rose colored. Raven Black: Born in a black coat, these Labradoodles have black nose pigment with shiny eyes. Sometimes their coat color can turn more of a silvery color over time. Light Blue: These Labradoodles are like black. When these pups mature, their fur color lightens and turns to a light blue or grey color. Parti Color: Often known as Parti Labradoodles, these pups have large swatches of white color. Red, black, or chocolate spots on a white coat are the most common. Phantom: These pups have secondary color markings near their eyes, chest, and chin. The Phantom Labradoodle has a combination of two colors, ideally black with a gold phantom. This color can do some interesting things! It can fade into at least three distinct, official Labradoodle colors! Go figure!! I have had one of my chocolate girls turn completely Lavender on her body but not the head, then within a year, go completely back to dark chocolate. So, like a good Boy Scout, when you purchase a chocolate Labradoodle, be prepared for anything! All are lovely, but they are almost impossible to predict with any significant degree of accuracy. Once again, be prepared for anything! Chocolate Colors Now we get to the fun part; the color combinations! This is where things get interesting. Partis can come in any color, with either color nose. Some are mostly white, while some have lots of color and less white. The ones that are mostly white are called "Extreme" Partis. The variations are endless and unique, like a snowflake. The colors, such as chocolate, on a parti can change in the same ways that they would on a solid dog. Often confused with "Parti" is a dog with heavy white mismarks or a Tuxedo. White mismarks can be very small or very heavy, or anywhere in-between. The puppy is born either Black or Chocolate and immediately begins to lose the dark color, revealing anything from a cream to a red underneath! The tips of the fur may retain their dark cast, but the dog will present as somewhere on the cream-red spectrum. I have included her picture below showing her in the middle of the changing process. The genetics of color are absolutely fascinating!

Girls We focus on producing quality labrador puppies, that will make the best pets possible. We have been blessed with very calm labrador retrievers that are the heart of our breeding program. Our labrador retrievers are raised in our home with love and attention. Our labrador puppies will be well socialized. They will be raised with other labradors, and be used to a wide age range of people. Our lab puppies will be used to all the normal noises that take place in a house full of children. We will start some basic obedience training that will include coming when called, sit and wait. All Labradors Retrievers are not the same, do not let anyone tell you that there is not a difference between the American hunting stock and the English Show Stock bloodlines. The American labs are bred to work the fields all day, because of this they require much more activity. Some American labrador retrievers have such a high work drive that they need a job to do everyday to be content. The English labrador retrievers on average, are much less excitable. They are content being wherever you are and laying on the floor in the family room. Make sure you do your research and pick the correct labrador puppy for your family. If you have more questions about the two lines of lab puppies please contact us for more information. Our Lab puppies have champion bloodlines with a history of show, hunting, companion, and service animals. Take full responsibility for this dog and all its needs for the next years? This is NOT a task that can be left to children! Invest the considerable time, money and patience it takes to train the dog to be a good companion? This does not happen by itself!! Always keep the dog safe; no running loose, riding in the back of an open pick up truck or being chained outside? Make sure the dog gets enough attention and exercise? Labrador puppies need several hours of both, every day!! Live with shedding, retrieving, drooling and high activity for the next years. Spend the money it takes to provide proper veterinary care including but certainly not limited to: vaccines, heartworm testing and preventative, spaying or neutering and annual check ups? Become educated about the proper care of the breed, correct training methods and how to groom? There are many good books available, invest the time to read a few. Keep the breeder informed and up to date on the dogs accomplishments and problems? Take your questions to the breeder or other appropriate professional before they become problems that are out of hand? Have the patience to accept and enjoy the trials of Labrador puppyhood, which can last for three years, and each stage afterward? Continue to accept responsibility for the dog despite inevitable life changes such as new babies, kids going off to school, moving or returning to work? Resist impulse buying, and instead have the patience to make a responsible choice? If you answered yes to ALL of the above you are ready to start contacting breeders. Start early because most responsible breeders have a waiting list ranging from a few of months to a couple of years. Remember, the right puppy or adult dog IS worth waiting for!! Welcome to Quail Meadow Labradors! We are not a kennel but a large family that fell in love with Labradors over 20 years ago. At that time all of our children were small so we didn't breed any of our dogs, but about 18 years ago, we decided it would be great to start sharing our love of these beautiful dogs with other families. We are located on 8 acres in central Florida just west of Ocala and besides our dogs, we also have cats, horses, cows, and sheep. We usually have three to five litters of puppies each year. These pups have got to be some of the most socialized puppies in all of Florida! They are raised right in our home along with our children and our pups and kids love it! They are people pets that like to be right where you are! All of our dogs are the English Labradors and they have great temperments with both show and field in their bloodlines along with championship pedigrees. Most families though are just looking for a quality pet with no hip, elbow, or eye problems and that's what we strive for. Our puppies are a part of our family and our goal is to provide good homes for them and a sweet, healthy pet that will be a part of your family for many years. Thanks for visiting our website and we hope to hear from you soon! Please visit us on Facebook and Instagram! Get In Touch. We love all of our fur family of animals as our own. Each one is a precious life who we raised for the joy of contribution as "YOUR" lifetime family member for you and yours. Here at our unique ranch, we breed Top Show Quality English Style Labradors, American Quarter Horses, Arabian Horses and a menagerie of fairytale like small animals in a certified wildlife habitat and preserve, with 47 years of agriculture and breeding experience. Our life and our home is dedicated to these beings and making life long lasting friends with our community. We don't own our animals, Our animals own us! Our dogs are part of our family, No mass production. They get the best quality feed and natural nursing. They are gently held and cared for as infant babies would be. They are loved and socialized with people and other animals. We will provide you with our recommendations from many years experience. Reserve your labrador puppy with select look, color, gender, temperament and perfect match! A Furever Friend Our lab puppies have been adopted as high quality pets, as contribution for other breeding programs, for service and therapy, for agility, hunting and great companionship! They love to cuddle for a good movie snuggled on the couch and play during the day. They care, they have feelings and they know what you require from them. What would it be like to have one of these puppies? We like yogurt!!! Around the clock for the first 8 weeks of their lives, we assure they are properly eating, exercising, give them lots of love, kisses and begin socialization. Introducing them to unusual sounds, activities, animals, toys, obstacles, etc. At 8 weeks, they are ready to be adopted and go home with their forever families! The fun begins! Or do you prefer black lab puppies? We evaluate our english lab puppies which are best for show, breeding, pet, service and therapy. Investing in a healthy breed quality Labrador puppy ensures a long life of optimal health enjoying every moment of your time together. He's our sweet stocky beautiful block head boy and is available at STUD. Proven as an ultimate producer of show english lab puppies. Breeding for the betterment of the breed is our primary focus. Outstanding Pedigree Rain Forest. Since Welcome to Tru-Heart Labradors! Tru-Heart Labradors is an established professional dog breeder situated between Jacksonville and Gainesville, Florida, that proudly produces the finest dual-purpose chocolate, yellow, and black Labrador Retriever puppies currently available in Florida. Our puppies are sold on a limited-registration basis to pet homes only, and we take pride in the fastidious, loving, and stimulating environment in which they are raised. Because we want every Tru-Heart puppy to find the best possible forever home, we ask that you submit an application before we discuss pricing or accept a deposit from you for one of our outstanding puppies. We do not inbreed. How do wild animal populations manage to remain healthy for thousands of generations without DNA testing? They don't lose important genes from the gene pool. In the wild, animals occasionally move from herd to herd, or flock to flock, which helps to restore genetic diversity to the population. If a particular group becomes isolated, and new individuals are prevented from entering the population, the gene pool is effectively closed. Breeders of other domestic animals understand this. Dogs are no different, and we put this truth into practice. By adhering to our scientifically-proven breeding philosophy, we ensure Tru-Heart puppies are born with sound temperaments, aesthetically-pleasing conformation, good bone, and genetic health and vigor. Please watch the following video on this subject from the Embark Canine Health Summit:. Located around the sunshine state, these breeders can help you find the best pet for you and your family. Published on Copy link Bringing home your first dog is a truly special experience. There is endless excitement that comes with raising a puppy - getting them acclimated to your children, letting them roam their new yard, buying them the perfect leash and chew toys to curb their mischievous appetite. A breeder whose mission is to take the absolute best care of the animals they raise. The breeder is focused on one breed and knows the best way to take care of them, instead of having a slew of dogs that lack the proper care and attention. In all, using a trusted breeder can give you the satisfaction in knowing exactly how your future pet has been treated and raised before bringing them home. GoodDog: Helping You Find The Best Breeder Before we dive into the best breeder options, we want to mention an incredibly helpful resource to find the best breeder in your area. They screen every breeder to ensure they are practicing responsible breeding and their platform was developed with the help of leading veterinarian clinics and academic experts. To give GoodDog a try, visit their website to find a labrador breeder near you. Situated between Jacksonville and Gainesville they breed chocolate, yellow and black Labrador puppies. They engage in Outcrossing - creating new genetic combinations by bringing together genes from unrelated labradors to eliminate undesirable traits caused by recessive genes is the fundamental philosophy of their breeding program. They do not inbreed. They have been breeding English Labradors since and all of their females are the result of their 39 year breeding program. Some other aspects of their breeding philosophy include: Bottle feeding their puppies in addition to their nursing from their mother. Placing their nursery in the center of their house to allow the puppies to adjust to the sounds of everyday life. Temperament tests for each puppy to match them with the perfect family. Complete physical exam by their veterinarian and first of scheduled vaccines. Duke is a perfect fit in our family. He loves our small children. He is medium in size. He is just like his momma Lacey.I highly recommend Penny Lane Labradors! Jennifer Sample: Duke I constantly get comments not just on how handsome he is but his temperament. My husband has had labs his entire life and I have owned one other lab with him for 10 years. Bosun is hands-down the best dog we've ever had. Thank you for breeding such great animals. He is a gem! She is adjusting well! Thank you for taking care of her for 8 weeks :! Charlotte Kountz: Dannie Thank you for our puppy muffin Juno. She is so sweet. She is definitely getting spoiled. She is a good little girl. We just adore her! Deanna Morrey: Delilah Lexi has the most adorable smile and is a little cuddle bug! Rachel Roberts: Lexi We named our little ball of joy Maisie. Thank you for such a wonderful pup! We love her so much!! He loves to swim at the beach and go on walks. Laura Watson: Sully Brady on his 11 wk birthday. He is very good - after the first night he has slept thru all of the nights. He is the perfect puppy!! Loves to get into the refrigerator- never seen anything like it! Took her to the beach first time Yesterday- she absolutely loves all the other dogs and people she meets, and they love her. She sleeps thru the night now in her kennel next to our bed. Thanks for raising such a fine puppy- she has stolen our hearts and filled our lives with joy! She is adjusting fine. She slept free in her own bed in our room till about then went straight back to sleep. Erika Foster: Olive.

Puppies are Champion Bloodline. KCI Registered. He is fun and loyal by nature. I have to, with a heavy heart giving him away due to work constraints. If you love dogs and are willing to keep him indoors please contact me. Contact: xxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxx. We are looking for a loving family for them. They are 40 days old. The younger one is a male 8month old his name is Goku and older one is a female 1 year old her name is Mystique. They both are very playful and well disciplined. They are trained to use the toilet for potty and peeing if unable to go out for walk. View Detail German Shepherd single coat 45 days old Female.The breed standard height at the withers is 60—65 cm 24—26 in for males and 55—60 cm 22—24 in for females, The weight standard is 30—40 kilograms 66—88 lb for males and 22—32 kilograms 49—71 lb for females. They have a domed forehead, a long square-cut muzzle and a black nose. The jaws are strong, with a scissor-like bite. The eyes are medium-sized and brown with a lively, intelligent and self-assured look. The ears are large and stand erect, open at the front and parallel, but they often are pulled back during movement. They have a long neck, which is raised when excited and lowered when moving at a fast pace. The tail is bushy and reaches to thehock. Most color varieties have black masks and black body markings which can range from a classic "saddle" to an over-all "blanket. The all-black and sable varieties are acceptable according to most standards; however, the blue and liver are considered to be serious faults and the all-white is grounds for instant disqualification in some standards. Website :- xxx. Any orther query pls call , Pets Farm. Thanks View Detail Proper shape proper vaccinated German shephard at sre www. Any orther query pls call , sreeganesh farm. Contrary to popular opinion, it is no more closely related to the wolf than any other breed of dog. A consortium of German breeders worked to make a brave, intelligent dog that could herd sheep and run quickly with great stamina. They produced an agile, powerful dog which quickly showed its usefulness at police work and guarding. During World War I, the breeds name was changed to Alsatian Alsatia is a German speaking region of France to protect the breed against possible anti-German sentiment. This name lasted only briefly in some countries such as America but remains to this day in others. German Shepherd Dogs became the most popular breed in America after the rise of German Shepherd movie star Rin Tin Tin, who thrilled audiences with astounding skills such as leaping nearly 12 feet high. Rin Tin Tin was known to dine on tenderloin steaks prepared by a personal chef. While no longer the countrys number one breed, the incredibly adaptable German Shepherd Dog is today a popular guard dog, police dog, guide dog, search-and-rescue dog, drug-sniffing dog, and pet. Size The German Shepherd Dog has a shoulder height of cm in and weighs kg lbs. It is a long, muscular dog with a black nose, powerful scissors bite, wide, erect ears, and intelligent, almond-shaped eyes. German Shepherd Dogs have a flat back, bushy, low hanging tail, muscular legs and chest, and short, round feet. They are the image of power and dignity. German Shepherd Dogs with a shoulder height over 64 cm 25 in and weight over 41 kg 90 lbs are sometimes called King Shepherds, but this breed is not recognized as distinct by the American Kennel Club. Coat and Color There are three varieties of German Shepherd Dog: coarse and short-haired, coarse and long-haired, and wavy and long-haired. Long-haired varieties may or may not have a double coat. The prototypical German Shepherd Dog is tan with a black back and mask, but German Shepherd Dogs come in a variety of colors including solid black, grey, brown, and yellow, tricolor black, white, and brown or red, or sable black and red, silver, or tan, plus a variety of marking designations including penciling black lines on the toes and tar heels black on the back of the leg. German Shepherd Dogs may not be white, though in some countries this is considered a separate breed. Character The German Shepherd Dog is unusually intelligent and unconditionally loyal, obedient, brave, and protective. It is known for its fearlessness but it is by no means hostile or aggressive. German Shepherd Dogs are poignant and devoted, making wonderful companions and ideal watchdogs. They are highly versatile and can fit in with many different lifestyles. Temperament German Shepherd Dogs are highly territorial, making them among the least likely of breeds to run away from a fight. They are not friendly towards strangers and will stop unwanted visitors. The German Shepherd Dog gets along fine with children and other animals, provided proper socialization has taken place, but does not prefer the companionship of other dogs. Care The German Shepherd Dog should be brushed weekly. During shedding, a special comb to remove dead hairs may be required. Like other large breeds, German Shepherd Dogs are susceptible to elbow and hip problems. Meals should be spread throughout the day to avoid bloat. The German Shepherd Dog has a life span of years. Training German Shepherd Dogs are eager pupils and are quick to learn new tricks. They are most responsive to their owners voice. The German Shepherd Dogs versatility makes them suitable for a wide variety of activities including dog sports. Activity German Shepherd Dogs are happiest when doing some type of work, such as agility, obedience, or police trials. Over-exercising when young can cause damage to growing bones, joints, and muscles. The German Shepherd Dog prefers a yard to play in, but can tolerate life in an apartment if sufficient exercise is provided. Intelligent, Amiable, moderately active, Determined, Excitable Apartment Friendly Price 20, — 1,00, If you need any more information about German Shepherds or want to get your queries answered about the same, we will provide you with all relevant information and assistance that would answer all your questions. Their sharp sense of smell is highly useful. They are courageous dogs that are very common in the police department. Their ability to detect weapons and criminals saves a lot of lives. They are not just intelligent, but greatly trainable. Their obedience and intelligence make them a versatile dog breed. They are the third most intelligent breed of dogs right after poodles and border Collins. If well trained they turn out to be very efficient and obedient. They enjoy learning and if you reward them with treats, they are highly motivated. They have high IQ levels, they are naturally great learners. Their role in society is pretty large. Their eagerness to please you is helpful too. They will always alert you if they sense any kind of trouble and protect your children and home. Due to their strong natural guarding instincts and abilities, they are famous among security companies. They are confident, fearless, and bold dogs. When it comes to appearance, nobody wants to mess with this dog breed. Criminals will tend to stay away. They have powerful bite strength and jaws. They will back off if a welcome stranger comes to your house; you just make sure to train them properly. All of these qualities make German shepherds the perfect guard dog. They are always prepared to come between their owners and any threat. They are possessive about other family members, especially children. They are intensely friendly and loyal companions. Training them and socializing is very important for them to get along well with everyone. The amount and efforts you put into training will only make them exceptionally loyal. Owners who can demonstrate themselves as the paternal-kind symbol at home can grow a strong friendship with their dog that is full of mutual respect and love. Their personality is heroic, obedient, and watchful. They make great family dogs because they are curious, alert, and confident. They serve various purposes, working with the police department, helping those in need, or simply protecting your house. They have admirable traits and characteristics, but their best is their beauty. These dogs are elegant animals; they are long and have lush coats. The square muzzle and wide head give them a powerful built. Their personalities are larger than life. They are great for hunting adventures. They like the thrill, so they do need regular mental stimulation and exercises to keep them active and happy. They are herding dogs that put a good amount of energy to complete their tasks. If you live in an apartment, take your dog out for a walk or a run to keep them in shape. Mental exercises help them to be sharp and keen. If you have children at home, German shepherds will be entertained and vice versa. This is one vital reason why they make amazing family pets. This dog breed is an excellent choice if you are looking to buy German shepherd dogs who love spending time outdoors and playing with your family. During flea season, however, to control pests, it sometimes becomes a necessity to take a bath more. Over bathing makes their coats weak, the natural oils are stripped and other regulatory mechanisms are disrupted. Bath them every ten days, which is more than sufficient. It is extremely vital to use a shampoo that is made for dogs, the ph levels for humans are very different from that of dogs. They do need regular brushing. If you are looking for friendly, compassionate, strong, and full of energy German shepherd puppies for sale in Mumbai, reach out to Premium Pet house. They have the best German shepherd price in Mumbai. They need a lot of mental stimulation and rigorous exercise. According to experts, they need at least two hours of exercising a day to keep themselves happy and joyful. Draining their energy levels help the dog to be more obedient and well-behaved at home. They do like to chew on furniture and other items. Even though numerous, lengthy walks might be a disadvantage for a couple of dog owners. It can also be very optimistic for people who have free time and want to seek a much healthy and active lifestyle. Dog walkers are convenient and helpful for those who have excessive work commitments. This can have a serious impact and also can shorten the life expectancy of your dog. Some of the biggest health problems are hip dysplasia, arthritis, degenerative myelopathy, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, etc. Epilepsy is another health problem. They are also susceptible to hereditary diseases that can result in seizures. This dog breed sometimes suffers from bloating, which occurs due to gas build-up and makes it tough for a German shepherd to breathe properly. This can lead their bodies into a state of shock. Even though these health conditions are a big disadvantage for dog owners, but ample research and finding a reputed breeder will help minimize the likelihood of them occurring to your German shepherd. Reach out to us and we will help you add a cute little member to your family! Lets Connect on We will also provide you following breeds. Adopt German shepherd dogs and puppies from petsworld. German shepherds are so adaptable and intelligent that they have performed just about every job known to dogs. From his striking size to his straight ears and dark eyes, this breed of dogs has achieved a legendary status as an ideal canine. Owing to their remarkable intelligence, these dogs can perform plethora of works, such as leading the blind, detecting illicit drugs, bringing down fleeing criminals and serving in the armed forces. These loyal, energetic, and devoted canines have become quite popular among pet lovers all over the world. Further, they have excelled in almost every canine sport, including obedience, agility, tracking, rally, and of course herding. All these notable features of these dogs have increased their demand. You should always buy German shepherd from the certified pet breeders and not from pet shops or puppy mills. Always see the health certificate of their parents to minimize chances of any genetic disorder. German shepherd dog breed information General Information:.

They are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. They make great family pets and are usually very easy to train. Puppies that are bought from a reputable breeder usually have a lower price tag. The price can vary depending on the reputation of the breeder and the location of the puppy. It is important to do your research before buying a French Bulldog puppy so you can ensure you are getting the best care possible for your investment. It is important to find a reputable breeder who will take good care of your French Bulldog and ensure they have the best life possible. Be sure to research the breed before purchasing a French Bulldog, as there are a lot of reputable breeders out there. Feed your French Bulldog a high-quality food to ensure they have the best life possible. French Bulldogs are a loving breed and will require daily exercise. Make sure to provide a safe and suitable environment for them to play in. Be careful of puppies that seem too good to be true or have a price that is too high. French Bulldogs are high in demand, so breeders must spend a lot to get them. French Bulldogs are a popular breed, so there are more people who are willing to pay for them. French Bulldogs are often considered a luxury breed, so they are more expensive than other breeds. French Bulldogs are often considered to be one of the best dog breeds, so they are in high demand. French Bulldogs are often considered to be one of the most intelligent dog breeds, so they are in high demand. French Bulldogs are often considered to be one of the most affectionate dog breeds, so they are in high demand. This makes these French bulldogs rare and some breeders consider them to be the true lilac. This color is usually the most expensive due to their unique looks and the variety of rare coats they can have. They are small, but sturdy and have a lot of energy. They make great pets for people who have smaller homes or who are just not ready for a bigger dog. They are typically very loyal to their owners, and get along well with other animals. They are also very playful and have a lot of energy, which can be a bit of a nuisance if not supervised. However, French Bulldogs are considered one of the most affectionate and loving dog breeds. Is There a Mini French Bulldog When a French Bulldog is bred, the goal is to create a well-rounded dog that is strong, agile, and has a good temperament. Breeding a French Bulldog to a Miniature Frenchie will create a smaller dog that is still able to do all of the things that a regular French Bulldog can do. These dogs can be good for families with children that are smaller than the average French Bulldog, as they are usually less aggressive and will not require as much attention. They will also be less likely to damage furniture or other items in the home. When looking for a Miniature Frenchie, it is important to make sure that you are selecting a dog that is healthy and has been bred for the purpose of being a miniature dog. There are many dogs that are advertised as Miniature Frenchie dogs that are not actually miniature dogs. These dogs may have been bred to have a small size, but may not actually be a miniature dog. It is important to do your research before selecting a Miniature Frenchie dog, as there are many that are in need of homes. They are known for their high energy and playful personalities. While this breed may be easier to train and housebreak than male French Bulldogs, they are just as loving and affectionate. Female French Bulldogs are also known for their gentle nature and strong affectionate bonds with their owners. They are great family dogs and make great companions. Overall, the French Bulldog is a great breed for anyone looking for a loving and playful pet. They are known for their loving companionship and intelligence. They are also considered to be one of the most active breeds of dog. French Bulldogs are easy to train, and they will respond well to positive reinforcement. They are not ideal for those who are looking for a dog that will perform obedience tasks or compete in agility competitions, but some French Bulldogs have proven themselves to be capable of doing both. French Bulldogs are considered to be one of the most loving breeds of dog, and they are known to be very friendly and social. They are also relatively easy to care for, and they will not require a lot of exercise. French Bulldogs are a good choice for those who are looking for a loving and loyal companion. French Bulldogs can have any color except for black. French Bulldogs are considered rare because there is a limited gene pool of these dogs. French Bulldogs with any other color than black are very rare. French Bulldogs with black are the most rare. When they cry, they are usually feeling anxious or scared. This is why it is important for you to give them plenty of love and attention when they cry, so that they know they are loved and cared for. They come in a variety of colors and textures, but the rarest of all is the white French Bulldog. French Bulldogs with white fur are caused by a number of different genes, such as Albinism, Leucism, Brindle, and Merle. Regardless of their color, all French Bulldogs are incredibly sweet and friendly. They make great family pets and are excellent watchdogs. How Much Is a Blue Frenchie A blue Frenchie costs more than a standard Frenchie because they are bred for their looks, not their working abilities. Blue Frenchie puppies are not as common as other colors, so they can be more expensive. Some people think that blue Frenchie puppies are cute, and others think that they are more elegant than other colors. One variation is the blue Frenchie. Blue French Bulldogs are just like any other Frenchie, but they have a blue coat. They are small dogs, and they are excellent as house pets or apartment-dwellers because they are so small. They make great companions because they are so loving and friendly. A Warning for Pet Owners! They are known for their loving personalities, playful nature, and large size. French Bulldogs are usually 12 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh pounds. They have a lifespan of years. This is because they are a rare breed, and so the demand for them is high. Additionally, French Bulldogs are quite cute. Are Frenchies High Maintenance French bulldogs are high maintenance and are likely to cost more in vet visits than other dog breeds. French bulldogs often incur spinal disorders, heart defects, joint disease and eye problems. To keep a French bulldog healthy and happy, owners must frequently take them to the veterinarian for checkups and preventive care. Additionally, French bulldogs need a lot of exercise and may require a large yard to run in. Because of their high maintenance requirements, French bulldogs may not be the best choice for people who have trouble with taking care of large, active animals. Many French Bulldogs do not bark excessively, making them excellent apartment dogs. However, it is important to always supervise young children and dogs when they are together. French Bulldogs are companion dogs and thrive when they have human contact. You must set a schedule and stick to it. If you are not consistent, your puppy will be harder to train. In a nutshell A French Bulldog in Australia is an expensive pet. Post Views: .Research shows that dog owners are more active, have lower blood pressure, experience lower levels of stress and have a greater sense of emotional well being. But owners of our French Bulldogs already know that! Having the best bred dog is something that you and your family deserve. All our special little puppies are microchipped, vaccinated, vet checked and have a copy of their breeding papers prepared before they leave us for their new homes. We also include a puppy pack to help you provide a good start for your new family member. Who we are? We are a small in-home registered breeder dedicated to breeding high quality and exotic coloured French Bulldogs. We strive to ensure our dogs are healthy and with good structure, taking great care with our bloodlines and breeding program. We are very proud to be the home of the first Isabella French Bulldogs born in Australia. All our puppies are raised amongst our own family members, and are well socialized with both children and other pets. This helps our puppies transition more easily into their new homes. Socialising you new puppy to vital to helping create a well-adjusted adult dog who can go anywhere, is relaxed with other people and is generally fun to be with. Our set of services in the industry We are not a puppy farm! When you come to our home to visit your potential new puppy, you will also get to see how we live with our beautiful Frenchies. They were sired with imported semen from America. The Testable Chocolate gene has only recently been introduced into French Bulldog lines in Australia and we are thrilled to be the first successful breeder! Why choose us One of the reasons we love our French Buldogs so much is their even-tempered and playful nature. Frenchies are also real charmers and smarmers who just love attention, making them ideal for life with singles, couple or families. As a responsible dog breeder we really encourage all our prospective owners to visit us in our home and meet our puppies and their parents. Ask us about this is you feel a mature French bull dog may be more suitable for your home than a playful puppy. For more information contact us on .Families with older children What to feed a French Bulldog? The reason for this is diet plays a significant part in the health of Bulldogs, and a good diet should prevent many of the health conditions they can suffer from. French Bulldogs sometimes have problems absorbing nutrients from food, which can lead to a special sometimes costly diet or supplements. Firstly, I highly recommend avoiding any dry dog food containing wheat or cereals especially those with by-products of those grains. All Bulldogs tend to be affected more by bad diet, medications, and antibiotics than other breeds. Related: Recommended dog foods. This gets me to my next point. Supplements are well worth considering for this breed, especially when your budget prevents you buying an expensive premium dog food. Probiotics are a great idea as these will help your Bulldog digest their food far more effectively. Read the full guide on probiotics which will fill you in completely and give you recommendations. Health Concerns French Bulldogs are prone to a number of health conditions. This disorder is caused by one or more anatomical misformations including small nostrils, narrow trachea, everted laryngeal saccules air sacs , and an elongated soft palate that partially obstructs the airway. This disorder often gets worse during hot weather and makes Frenchies much more susceptible to heat stroke. Reproductive Problems Reproductive problems are more common than not in this breed. Breeding after five years of age is severely discouraged. Genetic Spinal Deformities Frenchies are prone to genetic spinal deformities such as hemivertebrae, a painful condition where the spinal cord is constricted by misformed vertebrae. Surgery to correct these deformities is expensive, forcing some owners to euthanise. Untreated hemivertebrae can result in paralysis, incontinence, and excruciating pain for the canine. Pulmonic Stenosis Pulmonic Stenosis or narrowing of the pulmonary artery is somewhat common with this breed and can lead to fatigue or collapse during vigorous exercise or in severe cases Congestive Heart Failure. Hip Dysplasia Hip Dysplasia is common in active Frenchies and can cause limping, pain, and immobility of the back legs. This disorder can be corrected with periacetabular osteotomy surgery or made more manageable with medication Retinal Dysplasia Retinal Dysplasia is a hereditary condition characterised by the malformation of the retina. This disorder causes vision impairment, though it is not progressive or life-threatening. Hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism also known as under-active thyroid usually presents itself in affected dogs around four years of age. This is usually not life-threatening but it can cause hair loss, weight gain, dull coats, and may require medication. Atopic Dermatitis Atopic Dermatitis also known as eczema is prevalent in this breed. Using hypoallergenic shampoos and bathing less frequently can help control the symptoms. Heat Stroke Heat stroke is extremely common with this breed, because of this French Bulldogs should never be left outside for extended periods during hot or humid weather. The steep prices are due to reproductive difficulties in the breed, causing most breeders to resort to artificial insemination. Natural birth is extremely dangerous for Frenchies, so C-sections are required, which makes breeding quite costly. Furthermore, there is a very small window of opportunity for the females, since it is unsafe for them to give birth after five years of age. This balm uses natural botanicals including organic grapeseed oil, hemp-seed oil, jojoba oil, and Vitamin E to ease the pain and moisturise affected areas. Often French Bulldogs will develop tear stains; a gentle sodium hydroxide-based stain remover product will work to diminish discoloration, while not agitating the skin. We like the Petpost Tear-Stain Remover products, just make sure you rinse any remaining product with water after cleansing. Frenchies require shampoos with a super-gentle formula to so as to not trigger skin issues, Earthbath Ultra Mild Puppy Shampoo is a top pick for breeders plus it smells like cherries! What do owners have to say about their Frenchie? These groups are also great for finding a reputable breeder highly recommended. If you have a Frenchie yourself, please tell us all about him in the comments section below! This breed can be pricey. Do not look for the cheapest Frenchie to buy. It will more than likely be poorly bred with the many issues listed above. Also, you cannot go cheap on their dog food. She grows tired super quick when out and about, sadly. Tegan loves coming across other dogs, but other dogs look at her sideways since she makes some weird dog noises. Those thinking of buying or adopting a Frenchie should make sure they can accommodate their physical limitations and are prepared to deal with the health risks associated with this breed. Be prepared to feed a good diet which is meat-based and avoid cheap grain-based kibbles. If you do take home a Frenchie, then make sure you stock up on designer mugs, sweaters, and everything you can think of with a Bulldog on it! Calling Aussie pet lovers — join the mailing list! Leave this field empty if you're human: Or join me on:. The French Bulldog is a cross between the bulldog ancestors from England and the local ratters in France. Behaviour-wise, this dog is adaptable, playful and smart. Can we meet in person? Have they been socialised? Lovely Frenchies ready for a new home, super lively, fun and energetic. All six puppies are adored. They are all vet-check, microchipped and wormed. Now just ready to join a family. Have been toilet trained on astro puppy pee mats and are doing great with it. Our babies are raised in our home as part of our family. Each puppy comes with; Registered papers - are from 5 panel DNA clear families - a puppy pack - are Vaccinated - microchipped - wormed - health checked. These puppies are a beautiful representation of the breed and won't be seen at these prices again. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have about these little wonders. Registration number .He has an absolutely beautiful nature, loves people, very devoted. She is so sweet , loves everyone, especially kids. The puppies are raised in a loving family home. They have their own lounge room and access outside to the garden and massive yard. They have had structured play time with the children which they love. Toilet training is going well. Puppies available this weekend or can be viewed prior. Will be have their first vaccination and are wormed regularly. Melissa French bulldog puppies for sale Born 18th August .Two boys and two girls. Taking deposits NOW. We are thrilled to announce the confirmation of our highly anticipated litter of French bulldog puppies, to be born to a magnificent blue Merle father and an enchanting blue dam. Both parents exude elegance and grace with their athletic build, turning heads wherever they go. The father's striking blue Merle coat is adorned with mesmerizing patterns, while the mother's luxurious blue color is simply captivating. Beyond their captivating appearances, both parents possess exceptional temperaments, exhibiting intelligence, loyalty, and affection towards their human companions. They have been lovingly raised in a nurturing environment, ensuring that they pass on their wonderful traits to their offspring. Our commitment to responsible breeding extends to maintaining the utmost care for the health and well-being of our dogs. Both the father and mother have undergone thorough health screenings, with no history of health issues. As a result, we are confident that their offspring will inherit their robust health and vitality. For those truly seeking a lifelong companion of exceptional quality, we warmly invite you to view both parents in person. Witnessing their captivating personalities and impeccable manners will leave no doubt that their progeny will be nothing short of extraordinary. These highly coveted puppies are sure to attract a lot of attention, and thus we respectfully request only serious and committed individuals or families to inquire. The puppies are expected to be ready to go to their loving homes around mid October , so the journey of unconditional love and joy can begin. Please do not hesitate to contact us for any further information or to arrange a viewing. We eagerly await the opportunity to introduce you to these precious little ones and ensure they find the most loving and responsible forever homes. The puppies have - [ ] Worming schedules completed to current age. Vet checked, wormed, vaccinated and microchipped. Puppies have been hand reared and love cuddles and attention. They will be microchipped, vaccinated and wormed regularly before leaving. Parents are healthy, clear of hereditary disease and have good breathing. Parents are fed a high quality diet including raw food. Each puppy will go to their new home with a puppy pack and registration papers from the ANKC. They are raised on premium nutrition and kept in optimal health. Puppies come with comprehensive health contract, LIFETIME breeder support and impressive puppy pack including food, treats, toys, owner gifts, supplies and so much more. Puppies are hand raised in a kennel free, indoor family friendly environment with THE most care. All our animals are owned by our own family and they are family pets and loved ones first and foremost. We can provide real customer feedback of our healthy animals and impeccable service. We are registered breeders and provide pure breed registration papers with our pooches from Master Dog Breeders and Associates. Our member number is .We start toilet training and placing babies on strict routines as soon as possible to ensure take home is simple and dogs are top quality. We also spread breed education, responsible breeding practices awareness and support local shelters and animal fundraising. Please enquire about mains options. Prices are as a pet only. They are very friendly and playful. Bred in our home in a family environment. Our puppies come vet checked, vaccinated, microchipped, wormed fortnightly and pedigree registered with MDBA. We will also send our puppies to their new homes with a comprehensive puppy pack with all the essentials to get you started. We are looking for a family to love her as much as we do. She is currently the only dog and I have 2 primary aged children who she is great with. We have had her since a puppy and she is very easy going. She is used to being home alone while we are at work and school during the week and mixes with other dogs well once a week at doggy day care. She is toilet trained. Microchipped and registered Pure bred with papers from a registered breeder Healthy and Happy with no health issues. Born 13th September Nicole Maddison is a sweet and beautiful 2 year old frenchie. We find her very affectionate and loyal. She is toilet trained, desexed, walks well and up to date on all shots and treatments. Justin Sadly due to my partners allergies to dogs we cannot have her anymore. She is roughly 2 years old. She is in good condition and has been well taken care of. Anne French Bulldog French Bulldog, male ,Blue pied, DOB Geoffery is a very well bred boy with a loving nature, His genetic testing shows he has no health concerns, I would like him to placed into a loving home with a single or older couple. They are vet checked, wormed and vaccinated. They're full of quirky and playful energy. The litter includes 4 pure bred Females and 1 pure bred Male. They are fully microchipped and vaccinated If you wants the pups DNA papers that will be at an extra cost But if your just happy seeing mum an dad DNA papers we have that already Pm me for price an can be negotiated Ruby girl Dialga girl Zippy boy Bluey girl this one has the blue eyes Spotty Evan French bulldog Selling my frenchie as I'm now doing night shift work and don't have the time for her that she needs she's good with kids and other dogs and cats pls msg me for more info she's 11 months old and toilet trained she's an inside dog Donna French Bulldogs Pedigree with Papers DNA and pedigree papers of parents available to see. All pups will come Wormed Vaccinated Microchipped Vet checked With a puppy pack containing puppy food and toy bedding and more. I am happy for Personal meetings to see mum and dad and puppies. I am MDBA registered SnuggleMeadows Exclusive puppies for sale Two adorable boys,with an unusual and rare color, are looking for a new loving home! Boys from purebred parents with excellent DNA. No breathing problems and excellent health. Grown with love and care. Wormed treated - 2, 4, 6 weeks. Please message for Main papers welcome for extra. Alla This is George. Selling due to overseas relocation Greg Fluffy French Bulldog Puppy — Jumanji We have a beautiful frenchie named Jumanji looking for her forever loving home. He has been brought up in a loving home and socialized with our kids and now hes ready to join his new family for many cuddles and lots of kisses. Frenchies, as they're commonly known, are all eyes and ears with a large almost square head. The ear shape is unique in the dog world, and without the bat ear shape and set, you don't have a Frenchie. The other important breed characteristic is the short, undocked tail. French Bulldog temperament French Bulldogs are described as intelligent and courageous, however their wilful, stubborn nature can make them challenging to train. They require patience, repetition, and early socialization. They are playful and affectionate and their loyal, loving nature makes them a wonderful companion dog. They thrive on human companionship and are ideal for people that have time to devote to them. Their compact size and calm nature also makes them great indoor pets. Frenchies can easily live with other breeds provided the proper introductions are done. They are good watchdogs, apparently barking for good reason and not 'yappy' like some of the other smaller breeds. The breed is considered very reliable with, and protective of children. How much space and exercise does a French Bulldog need? Frenchies can live happily in a flat and have fairly minimal exercise needs, but do require daily walks, even short ones of around 15 minutes, to keep their weight down. French Bulldogs can't swim because of their stocky physique so care must be taken near swimming areas. French Bulldogs cannot live outdoors and precautions must be taken when exercising during hot or humid weather as they are prone to heat stress. French Bulldogs and grooming needs The French bulldog has only a single short coat that does not shed excessively and only needs occasional brushing. Ears should be cleaned regularly with a damp warm cloth and run a cotton ball around the edge of the canal. French Bulldogs do not naturally wear their nails down and will need their nails trimmed regularly to prevent splitting and tearing. How much can you expect to pay for a French Bulldog from a reputable, registered breeder? According to the ANKC, these breeders tend to exploit the premise of 'Exotic' and 'Rare Colours' by disregarding the breed standard and falsifying colour. When colour is the main and at times only reason for producing a litter, health can and is at times compromised. Does a higher price mean a better quality puppy? Quality to an owner should relate to the health and soundness of the puppy, whether for a pet or a show dog and proof of health testing should always be provided. How well you can talk to and relate to the breeder, both before and after purchasing the puppy, is also of high importance. Potential health issues in French Bulldogs Reputable breeders will ensure that their dogs and puppies are free of issues that french bulldogs can face so be sure to ask for proof that testing has been done for the potential health problems listed below. It should be noted that NONE of these tests are compulsory, but ethical breeders will do whatever tests are available to them to ensure they are breeding healthy, quality animals. The condition is associated with their face shape long soft palate and narrowing of the nostrils , everted saccules and an underdeveloped trachea. Dogs suffering from BOAS should never be used for breeding. Good breeders aim to reduce these traits by selectively breeding for good palates and open nostrils. Breeding with fully tested specimens who exhibit both phenotypical what we see and genotypical genetic makeup healthy traits, helps to ensure that the offspring inherit desirable healthy traits - including good breathing. Hemivertebrae — The French Bulldog has an average of hemivertebrae. These are misshapen vertebrae that can occasionally cause severe instability of the spinal cord. Testing is recommended to reduce the incidence of this occurring. French Bulldogs can also suffer from Hip Dysplasia which can also be tested for to reduce the incidence of unstable hips. French Bulldogs can also suffer from luxating or slipping patellas dislocating kneecaps. This usually requires surgical intervention to give the dog relief. Again, dogs with this condition should not be bred from. Heart conditions - Cardiomyopathy, heart murmurs and pulmonic stenosis are some of the conditions that can occur. Unfortunately, heart conditions are on the rise within the French Bulldog due to irresponsible breeders - for more information see Heart Health, The French Bulldog Club of Qld for more information. Hereditary Cataracts Called "juvenile cataracts" to differentiate them from cataracts associated with old age or degeneration. Juvenile cataracts appear at an early age and because they are usually inherited, can be picked up with DNA testing. Cystinuria Type 3 is a genetic defect in the kidney tubules that causes bladder stones in male French Bulldogs. Neutering is curative in dogs that are affected, but both males and females can be carriers and should be tested. Cystinuria is thought to have arrived in Australia recently via dogs and semen imported from Europe. Increasing numbers of Australian breeders are testing for cystinuria. It should be noted that a specific test is required to detect type 3 Cystinuria - the French Bulldog version of the defect. Standard DNA testing is not sufficient. French Bulldog general facts The French Bulldog is a small to medium domestic dog, around 30cm high at its shoulders, weighing roughly 11 female —.French Bulldog colour variations The only correct colours for the breed Brindle, Fawn, Pied are illustrated in the images provided in the gallery. Fawn — with or without a black mask, ideally fawn should be clean and clear. Brindle — a mixture of black and fawn hairs creating brindle patterning striping. Pied Pattern — White base with either brindle or fawn patches. Ideally, the white base should be clean and clear of ticking or spotting. For Profit breeders are asking very high prices for so called "rare" colours like blue, lilac, black and tan. When colour is the main and at times only reason for producing a litter, health can be compromised. Breed clubs world-wide are united in their concern about the irresponsible and reckless exploitation of French Bulldogs, particularly by those breeders who aim to produce rare colours. If you choose to buy a French Bulldog puppy for colour - ensure that prior to purchase you have proof of the correct and complete health testing of parents and the puppy - including certified radiographs of the spines and hips and DNA testing for all hereditary conditions. Check our listings for Puppies for sale here and click on the links to our breeders below to go to their profile page. You can also click here to search for Registered French Bulldog Breeders by location.

Any puppies that qualify as a German Shepherd Mix are a cross between a German Shepherd and another dog breed. In a mixed breed, you can get any mix of characteristics in the parent breeds. German Shepherds tend to be strong-willed, intelligent, playful, and loyal. To get a full idea of what to expect in your puppy, be sure to ask the breeder about the other dog breed in the cross and check out the mother dog in-person to get a general idea about size and temperament. On the German Shepherd side, you have an independent dog with high intelligence and a playful spirit. German Shepherds make great family pets and are born protectors. Because of their protective instinct, they can be suspicious of strangers. Socialization early and often can help curb this suspicion and make them more open to new people and situations. German Shepherds also tend to be loving and have a lively personality. The German Shepherd Mix can have any or all of these characteristics plus any characteristics from the other parent breed in the mix. Before buying a German Shepherd Mix puppy and bringing them home, be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed. If the puppies are being family-raised around children, you should be able to get an idea of how they will do in a family setting that includes children. The German Shepherd is a moderately adaptable working dog that was bred to guard, work, and herd. They do not tend to do well in apartments and are best-suited for houses with yards. GSDs prefer to be with their families and do not like to be alone. They also tend to prefer cooler climates as they are sensitive to heat. With a German Shepherd Mix, you could get a moderately adaptable dog that is just like a purebred German Shepherd. You could also end up with a dog that is more like the other parent breed. Talking with the breeder about the other parent breed can give you a good idea of what to expect. German Shepherds can be prone to elbow and hip dysplasia. You will need to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an idea of any other health concerns to be aware of in your German Shepherd Mix. Health screenings, clearances, and the genetic history of the parents can help allay concerns about potential health conditions. On the German Shepherd side, training and obedience classes are highly recommended for novice dog owners. Although GSDs are highly intelligent, pick up on things quickly, and train fairly easily, they can be stubborn with an independent streak. Regardless of the other parent breed in the cross, you should be prepared to enroll in obedience and training classes with your German Shepherd Mix. The experience will be beneficial to both you and your puppy and will also offer some opportunities for socialization. You will still want to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an understanding of what to expect during the training process. Professional grooming a few times a year and the occasional bath is also recommended. Regardless of the coat type, your German Shepherd Mix will need to have their nails trimmed monthly and their teeth brushed regularly. Not every dog will allow you to do this, so try to get a tooth brushing session in at least a few times a week to reduce tartar buildup. This will help prevent dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Plus, it will help cut down on bad breath! German Shepherds tend to have a high activity level. They were bred to run, herd, guard, and protect, so they are used to working and having a job to do. They are definitely not a lazy dog breed! Be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix. You will still want to go in prepared for a high energy dog with the understanding that your German Shepherd Mix puppy may have an activity level closer to the other breed in the cross. If both are high energy dogs breeds, expect to end up with a high energy dog. A German Shepherd is a large dog breed that generally weighs between 55 and 90 pounds. They also usually stand between 22 and 26 inches tall at the shoulders. The other dog breed in the cross could result in a smaller or larger German Shepherd Mix. A German Shepherd generally lives for years. You should be able to expect a similar range in your German Shepherd Mix, but the other dog breed in the cross could affect this range. Featured German Shepherd Mix Article. Characteristics Life Span As pointed out in the intro paragraph Shepradors generally live between 10 and 12 years, and sometimes they can reach the age of .However, they tend to be cautious with strangers, thanks to their German Shepherd ancestors. Caring Grooming: their shorthaired coat needs regular brushing: every day in the shedding season spring and autumn and three-to-five times a week in the rest of the year. Activity level With two highly energetic parent breeds, these dogs need an active life, so be ready to spend several hours a day keeping your pet busy. A Labrador Shepherd is generally 20 to 26 inches tall cm. Besides being active, you should have a large house, with a yard to provide her with enough space to move around. The Labrador Shepherd likes cold climates rather than hot weather, so be sure to have the ability to keep her comfortable all year. Further Reading Top 10 Dog Sports 2. They have it in their blood, and can successfully do police work, including searching, tracking, rescue, or guard work. If you care about your flowers and plants, you should also consider building an enclosure to keep your dog away from them. When you bring her inside, provide her with toys and games to keep her busy. She will enjoy any activity that stimulates her mind, such as dog puzzles or training sessions. The vacuum cleaner will be your new best friend German Shepherd Lab Mix is a double-coated breed, which means they have an undercoat next to the skin with longer hair over the top. Dogs from this crossbreed shed a lot, especially when the seasons change. If you want to keep her hair shiny and healthy, you should take time to brush her for at least minutes, three-to-five times a week. A consistent brushing schedule will help you reduce the amount of hair around the house. Besides brushing, you should include in your schedule: cleaning her ears once a week , brushing her teeth at least three times a week , and cleaning her eyes when needed. While this sounds like a lot, on the other hand, she only needs to take a bath about once a month. Exercising her on a concrete surface could help you keep her nails in good shape and reduce the number of visits to the vet. Always buy non-toxic toys, and substitute them with new ones as soon as they start deteriorating to avoid accidents. Your dog will need some strong toys, adapted to her age. Most hybrids tend to have a balanced personality, but as your puppy could be the result of more crosses , she may not inherit the exact characteristics you want in a dog; your future dog is prone to a series of health issues, caused by her bloodline. Obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases and diabetes are a lot more common with these dogs, but she could also develop epilepsy, skin allergies, bloat or cardiovascular diseases, these being common among Labradors and German Shepherds. From my point of view, most estimations work well for average dogs. You should buy your dog from a responsible breeder In most cases, a Labrador Shepherd has high potential and is a great candidate for the title of the perfect family dog. However, as mentioned before, hybrid dogs could have unpredictable coat colors, personalities, and health issues, so buying your puppy from a reliable source is as close as you can get to a clear image about your future dog. Generally, this hybrid can be 26 inches 66 cm tall and can weigh up to 88 pounds 40 kg. Taking into account the height and weight of its German Shepherd and Labrador mix parents, this crossbreed is a medium to a large-sized dog. So measurements can still vary more or less from that range. Good news for you! It will shower you with love and loyalty, and make you proud with its intelligence and playfulness. Do you think you can deal with this? Shepradors has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, but some of them can reach this age. We all want our pets to live longer and spend more years with us, so read this section to avoid and better prepare against genetic illnesses. Conclusion As you could see above, when buying a Sheprador you get the best of two great breeds. I think that this mix of German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever makes for the perfect family dog — kind, loyal, patient with children, and protective. However, they have endless energy and require a lot of time and attention, which makes them suitable for active families only. So are you ready to handle such a dog? Leave us a comment below and tell us about your personal experience with this unique crossbreed. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. But I adopted my little Hank recently and he seems both very playful and very cuddly. He likes to snuggle a lot but is very active too. Just wondering if I should expect him to go crazy one of these days? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. It is, therefore, no surprise that some breeders are starting to mix the two. Considering whether a German Shepherd Lab Mix is right for you? Read on for everything you need to know about this amazing mixed-breed dog. Lab German Shepherd Mix Overview Size — 22 to 25 inches tall and 50 to 80 pounds Coat — Medium length, double coat, color varies Shedding — Yes Temperament — Intelligent, active, and loyal, but can be wary of strangers Trainable — Highly, but prone to destructive behavior when bored Activity — Highly active needs two hours of activity per day Best For — Families and people with active lifestyles and lots of time to spend with them What is a German Shepherd Lab Mix? As these dogs are roughly the same size, the mother can be of either breed as long as she is larger than the father, to ensure against any difficulty in the birthing process. Sheprador Appearance As is the case for most mix-breed dogs, it is a bit of a gamble what you will get when these two come together. They might have the pointed ears of a German Shepherd or the floppy ears of a Labrador. There is nothing to do but wait and see. But luckily, both German Shepherds and Labradors are attractive dogs, so however they turn out they should be handsome. That said, we can make a few generalizations about the appearance of Shepradors. Size As both German Shepherds and Labradors are medium- to large-sized dogs, you can expect their mixed offspring to be the same. German Shepherds are the larger of the two and are usually between 50 and 90 pounds and 22 to 26 inches tall. Labradors are only a little bit smaller, at 50 to 80 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. So expect your German Shepherd Lab Mix to stand between 22 and 25 inches tall and weigh 50 to 80 pounds. You can narrow this range down a bit by looking at the size of the parents. Color The color of these gorgeous mixed-breed dogs is also highly variable, and you might end up with a pooch of a solid coat color, like Labs, or striking mixed coloring, like German Shepherds. A lot of this depends on the color of the Labrador parent, whether they are yellow, black, or chocolate. As a general rule, the darker the lab parent, the darker the coat of the pup. But you also get white German Shepherd Dogs, which can result in striking white Shepradors. Coat When it comes to coat length, you should expect in most cases that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will have a shorter coat, like that of a Labrador. This seems to be a dominant gene, and the vast majority of German Shepherd Lab Mixes end up with this type of coat. The dog will certainly have a double coat, as this is a feature of both breeds. The undercoat will be soft and fluffy, and the guard coat rough. This does mean that they shed—a lot. This is not the type of dog to have at home if anyone in the household suffers from allergies. Shepherd Lab Mix Puppy Lab German Shepherd Mix Character While temperament is again unpredictable with mix-breeds, both German Shepherds and Labradors are intelligent, active, and loyal dogs, so you can expect their offspring to share these traits. German Shepherds are very intelligent and have a natural protective instinct. They have a tendency to guard whatever they consider to be theirs. Labradors were originally bred as gun dogs, to retrieve the wild game of hunters. As such, they are very obedient and tend to be pleasers, and they like nothing more than spending time with their humans. As both breeds are intelligent and highly trainable, you can expect these characteristics to appear in a Sheprador. However, whether they will be a guard dog that can be aggressive with strangers, or a pleaser that is great with children, you will have to wait and see. While dogs are a mix of nature and nurture, if you want to take a Lab German Shepherd mix into a family home, or if you are a first-time dog owner, you will want to be careful about which individual dog you choose. Activity Levels However their personality turns out, you are going to have a dog with a lot of energy. These larger dogs that are used to working need around two hours of exercise each day. Their intelligence also means they get bored easily, and when they do get bored, they can have a tendency toward destructive behavior, which means digging and chewing. They do best with active owners with whom they can go walking, hiking, and running. Whether these dogs will like swimming is a coin toss. While Labradors love the water, German Shepherds are a bit more wary. But their size and adventurous nature mean they can be trained to love the water. So you have a good chance that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will be a swimmer. These dogs are loyal and love being around their humans. You will find them at their happiest and healthiest when you make them part of the family and shower them with love. Exercise Ideally, your Sheprador will need around two hours of exercise per day. This might be more than just a long walk, as their high energy levels mean they will like to run as well. They will enjoy tackling tough trails with you at their side, and the retriever nature of Labradors also means this breed is likely to enjoy a good game of fetch. Bear in mind that these dogs will need this level of exercise rain or shine, or they will become frustrated and start engaging in destructive behavior. This is not only bad for them in general, but can put excess pressure on their hips, which are also prone to issues. Intellectual Stimulation German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs are invariably highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train but also means they get bored very easily. When they do get bored, they are smart enough to find trouble, and you may come home to quite the scene. These dogs need to spend time with people to occupy their minds, and they also benefit from intellectually stimulating games. But expect them to make short work of these challenges, as they are chewers. You will be getting them new games quite often. Companionship Labradors need a lot of companionship, and this is a trait their offspring with German Shepherds are likely to share. Not only will they get bored and start acting up, but they can become depressed. Grooming Both German Shepherds and Labradors are shedders, so you can be sure their Sheprador offspring will be as well. This is just a fact of life with Shepradors. They will need to be brushed at least twice a week, and as often as once a day during the shedding seasons fall and spring. As well as brushing, invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner that has special functionality to help you pick up dog hair. These dogs are also likely to enjoy jumping up on the couch for a snuggle and a snooze. Invest in coverings and be sure your swanky vacuum cleaner has an attachment for upholstery. Their coat is not the only part of their grooming to attend to. You need to clean their teeth three times a week, with a brush or with dental treats. Finally, trim their nails every three months. This is both for their health and the health of your home, as their nails can damage your floors. For a big dog like this, it can be a good idea to take them to the vet to get their nails clipped. But if you feel confident to do this at home, check out our list of the best nail clippers. Diet German Shepherd Lab Mixes are big dogs that have lots of energy, but they also have a tendency toward obesity, which means they have to get their energy from good sources. This means high-quality protein and fats over carbohydrates. Preferably this means meals made from quality meats rather than meals or byproducts. When looking at the ingredient list, look for named meats at the first ingredient. Lab German Shepherd Mixes also benefit from novel proteins in their diet, as they can be prone to allergies. Dogs tend to develop allergies to the meats they eat the most, which often means beef and chicken. When they are puppies, Shepradors should be fed three times a day, and this should be cut down to two times a day from about four months of age. As a rule, dogs need 25 to 30 calories per pound of their weight per day, though you should watch their individual weight and energy level to see if you need to adjust their meals up or down. You can also check the label on your dog food to get a rough estimate of how much you should be feeding your Sheprador. Of course the amount will also vary depending on how often you exercise your dog. Known Health Problems While there is no limit to the number of health problems that a dog of any breed can develop, or they might not develop any at all, some dog breeds are more prone to some conditions than others. German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs have the potential to develop the health problems that are common in goth German Shepherds and Labradors. These include: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia — This is a condition where the hip and elbow joints do not develop normally and that can cause extreme pain and arthritis in later life. For more information check out our list of Glucosamine for Dogs. Progressive Retinal Atrophy — This is a group of degenerative diseases that affect the eyes and can lead to blindness. Shepradors are also prone to eat whatever is put in front of them, so you need to be conscious of what you are feeding them. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus — Poor diet can lead the stomach to dilate and expand, in turn leading to a twisting of the stomach that is life-threatening. It can block the flow of blood to the abdomen, leading to rupture of the stomach walls, and put pressure on the diaphragm thereby inhibiting the lungs. Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy — This is a condition that affects the spinal cord and leads to progressive weakness of the hind limbs, and eventually paralysis. Panosteitis — This is an inflammation of the outer surface of the long bones in the legs, resulting in a shifting lameness and making bones more susceptible to breaks. Allergies — Dogs can be born with allergies or develop them over time. Dogs often develop allergies if they eat the same foods consistently. Underactive Thyroid — The thyroid manages hormones, and an underactive thyroid is unable to secrete the required hormones. This can result in weight gain, lethargy, and cold intolerance. At this time, their energy levels will drop and they will need some changes in their diet and exercise. GSD Lab Mix Puppy But no matter how well trained they are, if they are left to get bored for too long, they can engage in some pretty destructive behavior, such as digging and chewing everything in sight. You have been forewarned. The highly assertive nature of German Shepherds means they do not respond well to domination training. They are likely to revolt when subjected to punishment. The best way to train a Labrador German Shepherd Mix is through positive reinforcement. Labradors are pleasers that love to make their humans happy. This means their offspring are also likely to feel the same way. So they will respond rapidly to training based on rewards for positive behavior. Deal with this behavior early, with specific training for dealing with children and strangers. They are very active and need lots of attention, so they need to be in households that support this. But they do great with adults and kids, so they can be a great family pet. Remember that German Shepherd Labrador Mixes need around two hours of exercise every day, so they need someone who can commit to that level of activity. But at the same time, it means they are the type of dog you can take on all of your adventures if you like hiking and trailing. They also need attention and stimulation throughout the day. If anyone in the house suffers with pet hair allergies, this is another reason Labrador German Shepherd Mixes are not the right dog for you, as they shed a lot. Consider something like a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle instead. Also, ask for medical records of the parents, to see what health conditions the pup might be prone to in the future. If you decide to adopt a mature dog, spend a bit of time with them to see what their temperament is like. History of the Breeds German Shepherd German Shepherds originated in Germany in the late 19th century as a sheep herding dog. But, because they are very intelligent, trainable, obedient, and strong, they have since moved into many different working roles including police, military, search and rescue, and disability assistance. German Shepherds can have a reputation for being aggressive, but they are more alert and wary than aggressive. They can have a tendency to become overprotective of family and territory. But if socialized and trained properly, this tendency should be highly manageable. German Shepherds are the second-most popular dog in the United States and the seventh-most popular dog in the United Kingdom. Labrador Labradors, also known as Labrador Retrievers, were initially used in Newfoundland as fishing dogs to retrieve fish that had gotten away. Because they are incredibly friendly but also intelligent and therefore easy to train, today Labradors are favored as disability assistance dogs, often helping individuals with blindness, ptsd, mobility issues and autism. Labradors are the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are intelligent and therefore easy to train, and loving and loyal, so they will quickly feel like part of the family. However, they do need a lot of exercise and attention, so adopting a Sheprador into your family is a commitment. German Shepherds have a reputation for being aggressive, but it is not really deserved. They are natural watchdogs and reserved around strangers, but they are not aggressive dogs that are likely to attack. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which means easy to control. Beagles, Poodles, Boxers, Golden Retrievers and Spaniels are all extremely friendly dogs as well, many specifically bred to be companions. They do best with active people or families who are full of people to love them. Like all dogs, they will do their best when they are cared for properly. This means training them appropriately, exercising them, keeping them mentally stimulated, and feeding them well. But these loyal pooches will repay your care and commitment with a lot of love and affection. 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. There is no way to find out if your puppy will develop any of these conditions. All you can do is to take care of your dog properly to prevent some of these severe medical conditions. Your growing dog should maintain a healthy weight because extra weight can be an additional weight on its spine. The ideal dog nutrition will also depend on any nutritional needs of your dog. If you are training your dog, never give treats as a reward. This encourages obesity and will only cause more problems for your dog. Here are top dog food brands that your German Shepherd Lab will surely love. Its core ingredients include ground brown rice, lamb meal, white rice, and chicken. It is all natural and contains no preservatives. Even a picky puppy will surely love this dog food. Precise Holistic Complete Large Breed Adult Formula Precise Holistic contains chicken, brown rice, chicken fat, and oatmeal and is considered the best organic dog food for large dogs. This comes with extra calcium and phosphorus needed by dogs to achieve its full, large size. This is a portion of irresistible dog food for large breed dogs such as your Lab German Shepherd mix. Just like any other dog, never give your German Shepherd Lab the following human food. Not all human food is safe for dogs. Alcohol Chicken bones or cooked chicken bones Grapes or raisins Salty foods and junk food Chocolate, coffee, or tea Onions, chives, and garlic If you want your dog to grow strong and healthy, you need to give them the best care in the world. So, start with their nutrition! That means you need to stay away from the worst dry dog food, and try out the best dry dog food instead. Your hairy friend comes from different parents and therefore you can experiment with the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. Our puppy friends need nutrition that is full of proteins and easy to digest. You can look for some ideas in the best puppy food brands. Senior dogs, in their grandpa style, need food which contains moderate protein levels as in the best senior dry dog food. Because of this, you need to spend ample time in a day to exercise and to walk this dog otherwise; it can develop destructive behavior. Play with your dog regularly to develop a strong bond with your pet. Remember that this dog will love to swim because of its Labrador Retriever lineage. A local dog pool or a pond would work great with your dog. If you have a large yard, an old, large vat will work great just for him to play and cool off. All dogs love to fetch and play Frisbee. Use other kinds of toys like large ropes so you can play pulling games. Use a giant ball for fetches like an old football or a tennis ball. Here are a few ideas 1. This is available in six sizes so you will surely find the best size for your medium to large-sized Lab German Shepherd mix. It is indestructible so your dog will undoubtedly spend hours playing with it. It is made from durable materials that will never break or chip. This is indestructible, and your dog will surely love to play with this over and over again. It is soft but is made to be indestructible. Your pet will surely love to chew on this soft bone. This will be his favorite toy in no time. Lab German Shepherd Mix Training The Lab crossed with a German Shepherd is a brilliant dog, but it may need more than simple traditional training techniques to train this dog. The following tricks will help you make your dog obey you in no time. The Clicker Technique Learn how to train your dog using a clicker. Press this, and you will hear an audible click, a sound that dog loves very much. The clicker may be used in all kinds of tricks, but the most common is for positive reinforcement. Just click the clicker when your dog can follow the trick and then click again if you want to repeat the behavior. Invest in a good clicker which is available in most pet stores online. This can contribute to obesity and other health problems related to being overweight. Reward good behavior by patting your dog, playing with him or giving him a good scratch. Tell your dog what a good dog he is and combines this with a lot of pats as reinforcement. Every dog takes his time so you must be patient. His bed should at the same place where he found it the first time while his food bowls should also be in the same area. Consistency is the key to training dogs important stuff. Also, consider talking to everyone at home regarding your rules and commands to reinforce consistency in training your dog. Train Your Dog In A Familiar Environment Dogs like the Lab are easily distracted; therefore you must train your pup in a quiet and familiar environment first before you take him out for further training. Start inside a quiet room with only you and him. You can train him outdoors once he is less distracted to noise and the presence of other pets and people. You may also opt for professional training for your Lab German Shepherd mix dog if you want your pup to grow up and become a service dog or police dog. German Shepherd Lab Mix and Families Lab German Shepherds can be great family dogs because these dogs love to be with their masters and to please them every way they can. These are patient with children and will never roughhouse or bite. They can even tolerate toddlers and very intense games like dress up and role play games. Lab German Shepherd mix dogs will love to be with other pets and even other dogs. They are not domineering and will never cause a fight. The Lab German Shepherd mix may become anti-social and may become aggressive with people or other dogs when they are not introduced to people and other pets early on. Your dog should be trained first and exposed to other dogs and people to prevent this untoward behavior.

According to Walkin' Pets, a company that provides mobility products to animals , Sanctuary was found with two other pit bull puppies abandoned in a box on a St. Louis alleyway in February .Stray Rescue of St. Louis responded to the incident and brought the puppies to their shelter for care. Veterinarians examined the three puppies when they arrived at the Missouri rescue and found that all dogs had injuries and abrasions and exhibited signs of neurological conditions. The trio of canines received care at Stray Rescue of St. Louis for several weeks and then moved into foster homes. The two other pit bulls Sanctuary was found with went on to find forever homes, but Sanctuary is still waiting for his. Sanctuary has cerebellar hypoplasia — a neurological condition in which the cerebellum doesn't develop completely, causing an animal to have reduced mobility control. For the pit bull, this means he has trouble controlling his motor functions, especially when walking and standing. This assistance has also helped Sanctuary become more independent. It has helped him physically, mentally, and emotionally. He can run, walk, eat, drink, and go to the bathroom on his own," Sanctuary's foster mom, Clare, shared in a statement. Clare and Stray Rescue of St. Louis are hopeful that an animal lover will soon see Sanctuary for the loveable, talented dog they know him to be — a dog that, along with being friendly, is also patient through physical therapy appointments and well-behaved during socialization classes. He loves his lamb chop toys and holding a ball in his mouth while running in the backyard in his wheelchair," Clare added. Sanctuary is looking for a forever home with someone who can love him unconditionally and provide him with a lifestyle that caters to his needs. If you think you are the one to end Sanctuary's year-long search for a loving adoptive family, please contact Rae with Stray Rescue of St. Louis at rae strayrescue. Related Articles. Spencer's first week—10 weeks old, 17 pounds, 12 inches from the ground to the highest point of the shoulders the withers. About 2 months old. The walk drains their energy and calms their minds. Choosing Spencer The kids and I had pin-pointed Spencer from looking at pictures over email, however I also knew I wanted the most submissive puppy in the litter and the breeder was willing to let me pick. When we walked in and looked at the puppies they all became very excited, jumping at the side of the cage and whining. All but one pup that calmly remained in the back, not caring to push his way past his siblings. His tail was not between his legs. He looked relaxed. He did not look afraid, nor did he look shy. I would not have wanted to choose a pup that had any of those traits either. I asked the breeder which puppy was the one we were eyeing up over the emails and he said it was the one in the back. I took that pup out of the crate and placed him on the floor for a bit to see what he would do. His tail started to wag and he started to explore. When the breeder stated he had always been like that I knew he was the one. It could not have worked out any better. The fact that Spencer was not bothering to get in front of his littermates, and remained calm through all of the excitement told me that he was the pick of the litter for me. The most calm, submissive puppy in the bunch! Oftentimes people choose the pup that is the most forward, the one that jumps off the chair first, the one that explores first, the one pushing in front to see them. They take it as the dog being smart and loving them. Yes the pup may be smart, but it is also the most dominant. The leader. Follower dogs are much easier to handle and do better with children, challenging humans less. The puppy who calmly hangs back with his tail relaxed is the more submissive one of the bunch. First Getting Into the Car When bringing Spencer home I do not just carry him into the car, I allow him to walk in by himself when he feels ready. It takes time, however it is the best way to make a dog secure about riding in a car. Spencer is too small to just jump in, so I help him up by placing his front paws on the car entranceway. I then support his back legs and wait for him to decide to walk into the car. I could have used a treat, but Spencer took the steps into the car on his own. I then waited until he relaxed before I got in and closed the door. On the way home had Spencer been anxious, whining or unsure I would not have been able to pet or hold him. Giving him affection when he was unsure or upset would have intensified his feelings, as the affection would have been like saying "Good boy for feeling that way. When it is time to get out of the car for the first time we take it slow. I help Spencer move through the motions of jumping out of the car, careful not to really allow him to jump, as he is still too small to jump that high a distance. I quickly unsnapped Spencer's leash, as dogs often do better at an introduction if they are free to move around. Bruno the Boxer allows Spencer to smell his rear, a ritual dogs use to get to know one another. By smelling another dog like this is like reading a book about the other dog. They can tell what they ate, where they have been, how or what they have been around and touched and if they are male or female, among other things. Then Bruno smells Spencer. Spencer quickly decides that he really likes Bruno the Boxer. Over and over again when Spencer starts to feel not so sure about something he turns to Bruno, follows him and quickly gets over his insecurity. Spencer and the Cats Pumpkin aka Lumpy has his eye on this new pup. Spencer, on the other hand, does not see the cat, yet. Spencer and Lumpy meet face to face for the first time. Lumpy puts Spencer in his place and lets him know cats are nothing to be messing around with. Spencer gets a swat in the face. Several other cats swat him in the face and Spencer backs away. They're nothing you want to be messing with. They can get evil, ya see. She's one of the tougher ones. Spencer meets Sylvester, one of the more mellow cats who is much more tolerant of newcomers. Sylvester is gracious enough to allow Spencer to really get to know him by smelling his back end. Spencer has another encounter with Lumpy… …but quickly decides he does not want to challenge the cat. Score for the kitty. Spencer spots Oreo the cat in the bushes. He decides to leave her alone. Later Spencer spots Oreo under the car. Once again he decides to leave the cat alone, focusing his attention on his new buddy Bruno the Boxer. The cats decide that this new pup is a piece of cake. Gaining Confidence Bruno and I heard a funny noise. I was not sure what it was, but Bruno took off toward the sound and I followed him. We found Spencer whining, wanting to come up the porch steps. He was trying his hardest. Bruno stood there watching him. I knew if he tried hard enough he could do it and I also knew that if I just helped him up it would block him from gaining confidence. Mother dogs do not help their pups with every little obstacle; they allow them to venture on their own, learning and exploring. Sure enough, Spencer did it on his own! What a handsome Pit puppy. Spencer finds the water bowl on the porch and starts to take a drink. Bruno the Boxer steps back and watches, giving the pup respect. Right after Spencer is finished Bruno steps forward to have his turn at a drink and Spencer steps back and watches. The respect goes both ways. What a great pack this is going to be. Therefore we are allowing him to explore at his own slow pace. We do not rush him. We wait until he is good and ready to take that step inside the house. We call Bruno inside the house so Spencer sees Bruno. Spencer has really taken to Bruno and watches him for direction, following him around. We quietly wait it out and after a bit Spencer decides to step inside. Once Spencer was inside and appeared relaxed we closed the door, however he then decided he wanted back outside. Once again we quietly waited it out. Waited for him to relax on his own and realize that being inside was a safe place. Spencer soon turns back to us and walks in some more. Introducing the Crate The way the crate is introduced will play a big role in how secure Spencer is being in it. The more secure he is the more he will like it. Spencer is already not sure about being inside the house. To help him along I get a bully stick and let him chew on it. After he gets a taste of it he decides he likes it. I then use the stick to lure him to the front of his crate….Spencer walks into the crate on his own. Had I just put him in there myself, his first experience would not have been as pleasant. Allowing him to explore it on his own gives him the confidence he needs to really feel safe inside of the crate. As soon as he relaxes I close the door. Bruno's presence helps Spencer relax. A few hours later, after having Spencer outside playing and exploring, he comes inside the house and walks right into his crate. He decides the crate is his safety place. After all, there is a bully stick in there just waiting for him. Spencer is not so sure about coming out of his crate and walking on the kitchen floor. Simply yanking him out will not help to build his confidence and could actually cause him to become insecure. Therefore we give him time. We use Bruno to help lure him out. As soon as he builds up his nerve he starts to come out. And he's out. First Bath We gave Spencer his first bath and he started to shake. We were careful not to sweet-talk to him while he was upset or it would have made him even more upset, as if to say "Good boy for feeling this way. We hurried his bath along and wrapped him in a towel. Now what to do? We cannot sit there and cuddle him while he is upset. Amie says, "Give him to me. Instantly Spencer is calm and relaxed. It's just amazing how one well-balanced dog can help another. If we had not had Bruno we would have put him down all wrapped up in a towel and let time calm him. Nails Clipped We make sure Spencer is calm before cutting his nails. He does a great job. Housebreaking First Night Spencer pooped and peed in his crate and then slept in it. Oh boy. I didn't hear him yip to go outside. I don't know if he did or not. Bruno was sleeping in a dog bed right next to his crate. He was content. The pen the breeder kept him in had a wire bottom where the waste would fall to a bottom tray. Spence was most likely not used to the waste staying right where he went, not to mention that I should have gotten up to let him out during the night. Time to start setting the alarm. I'll start with every two hours and extend it as I see some kind of pattern. Puppies at this age cannot physically hold it in beyond a certain point of time. I bleached his blanket and the bottom of his crate to get the smell entirely out. I better invest in a lot of spray cleaner and paper towels! Puppies have to go to the bathroom within five minutes after eating, so I take Spence outside right after he eats every time. Sure enough, he always goes. Housebreaking: Second Night Spencer had a long day see pack walk video and was exhausted by the end of the night. He was sleeping in the dog bed next to me. I woke him up and took him outside to eliminate and brought him back in. A half-hour later I took him out again and this time let him walk into his crate. I was confident that he no longer had to go to the bathroom. Bruno was in the dog bed in the living room and Spencer's crate is in the kitchen. Spence started to put up a fuss. It was a weekend and it was late, a. I went up to bed and could hear Spencer having a temper tantrum. There was a bully stick in his crate, but he apparently didn't want to be in there. I waited it out and in about ten minutes all was quiet. I set my alarm for a. At a. I came down and Bruno was in the second dog bed located next to Spencer's crate, Spence was sleeping, his crate was dry. I opened the crate and encouraged him to come out. He carefully stepped out of his crate with his tail going a mile a minute and walked from the kitchen into the living room and out the front door! He followed me to the grass, peed and followed me back to the porch. Only having three hours of sleep myself, I decided I didn't want to spend the time to encourage him to walk back to the kitchen so I carried him to the kitchen and set him in front of his crate. He walked in. He loves the crate. The hard part for him is walking inside the house to get to it. This we will be working on in time. Update: Sara got Spence over his insecurity this same day. See Spencer the Pit Bull getting over his apprehension of indoor hard flooring. He made great progress when he walked from the crate to the front door. I went back to bed until a. The crate is clean and dry and he walked from the crate to the front door! I may be able to push this time to every four hours. Not sure yet. I'll be testing it out. Update on Housebreaking: Second Night Amie just told me that twice in the middle of the night she heard Spencer fuss in his crate and she opened the crate and he ran like the house was on fire from the crate to the front door, over to the grass and peed and pooped. I just might need a baby monitor. The pup wants to go outside. Someone just has to hear him. Way to go Amie and Spencer! Housebreaking: Third Night Spencer made it through another night with a dry crate! Instead of setting my alarm I bought a baby monitor so I could hear if he woke up. When it was time for bed I walked Spence out to go to the bathroom. After the pup went I walked back inside the house and to the kitchen with him following me. I used his bully stick to lure him into the crate. When he lay down to chew it I closed the door. As soon as I walked away Spence started fussing, and boy is he loud when he fusses. I knew he did not have to go to the bathroom because he just went. I didn't want him to think fussing resulted in affection or the crate door opening, so I went to the living room where Bruno was sleeping and told Bruno to come with me in the kitchen. I had Bruno sleep in the dog crate next to Spence's kennel. Spence saw Bruno and calmed down considerably but started to fuss one more time and I sternly "shhhhed" him. Spence stopped fussing and was content with being in his crate next to Bruno, although I know he would have preferred to be in the same dog bed. Had I not had Bruno I would have had to ignore him and wait it out. I realized I had not heard a peep from Spencer. I decided to go and let him out anyway. He followed me all the way from the kitchen to the living room front door and to the grass to pee and back inside to the kitchen. He plopped down with Bruno in the dog bed. I had to guide him inside his crate with the bully stick that was next to Bruno. I gave him his bully stick and went back to bed. I heard him squeak and I got up to let him out. I notice when I open the front door he does not step outside unless I step outside first. I have seen Amie tell him to wait until she passed through the door first a few times. Since Bruno does this automatically Spencer seems to have picked up on this concept already. We had a little accident the evening of the third day. Spencer went to the front door and we didn't notice in time, so he peed right in front of the door. I cleaned it up very well with pet deodorizer spray to get the smell out so it does not attract him to do it again. Housebreaking: Fourth Night Spencer's crate was dry once again. I got up in the middle of the night and took him out to potty once. Crate training is going well. Feeding Spencer is a good eater. We feed him three times a day, as much as he can eat in ten minutes. He is always finished before the ten minutes are up. Spencer and Bruno are eating different types of food and Spencer eats more often than Bruno, however when Spencer eats Bruno ignores him. Good boy, Bruno. Respecting the puppy. Bruno Helping Spence It is amazing to watch just how much Bruno helps Spence adjust to all of this new excitement. For example, one of the first times Spencer was in the car he started to shake. He was not sure about being in there. He looked up at Bruno and suddenly his tail started wagging and all was better again. On the first day home when I would take Spence out to go to the bathroom he seemed unsure about following me down into the yard. However when I took Bruno with me he followed Bruno with confidence, very happily I might add. Teaching to Follow Spencer's instinct to follow is strong, stronger than Bruno's was at this age. Bruno had the instinct, but Spence's is stronger. He follows me everywhere and he does not try to pass me. I walk, he comes, I stop, he stops. When I stop walking he sits down right next to my feet and waits. I look down at him and he looks up into my eyes waiting for the next move. I walked him and Bruno to the pond and back off-leash and Spencer followed. That super strong instinct to follow and the attachment to humans is a Pit Bull trait. We are showing him strong leadership and in return he is paying close attention to us to see what we want of him. Pit Bulls will do anything for their owners if they can understand what it is the owners want of them. Owners need to channel that desire to please into something positive. He had never been in this crate before. I had just cleaned the crate out and the pup got a hold of the paper towels that had cleaner on them. Simply yanking them out of his mouth would have not only not taught him a thing, but he would most likely have thought it was just a game. I had to act and think fast however because of the cleaner to get him to drop it himself. After taking care of the paper towel issue I use this bully stick to lure him into the new crate. Notice how he is focused on the smell of the cleaner and I use this bully stick to redirect his attention to that smell. Then I use the bully stick to associate the crate with something positive. Simply shoving him into the crate may have caused him apprehension about being in the crate. The Test It was midnight and time for Spence to go to his crate. I took him out for a short walk and a potty break and headed back inside the house. Just like the last two nights I led Spencer to his dog crate in the kitchen. When we got in sight of the crate the little bugger stopped in his tracks and it was as if I could see the wheels spinning in his head; he didn't want to go in the crate. He made a beeline for the living room dog bed, running as fast as he could. He skidded into the bed and lay down really fast, as if he was now safe at home base. Spence, you little sucker. You may be a smart pup, but I am a little smarter. I body blocked him toward his crate and this time I was ready. When he got to the same spot he tried to do the same beeline back to the dog bed in the living room. Just as he started to run I poked him in the neck with my finger and blocked him. I pointed and told him to get in the crate. He lowered his head and walked into his crate. I passed the leadership test. I am sure there will be many more of these tests to come. He is just a little guy, 17 pounds and I could have easily just picked him up and put him in his crate. However it was important that I made HIM walk back to his crate on his own, otherwise it was not him giving it up. The difference between leadership and overbearing pushiness on an owner's part is making the dog do what you want on their own, and not physically forcing the dog with your muscle strength. You use your mind, feeling confident and strong inside. If you feel stronger than the dog does, and match his intensity without going too far over, the dog is more likely to listen to you.

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. They are not purebreds like their Shih Tzu or Poodle parents. Shih-Poo coats can be curly like their Poodle parent, straight like their Shih-Tzu parent, or a combination of the two. They are generally considered hypoallergenic. Shih-Poos can come in black, white, brown, brindle, and all variations and color combinations. Like most small dogs, Shih-Poos can be prone to dental health issues. Maintain proper dental hygiene for your Shih-Poo. Shih-Poos are pretty versatile and can live in just about any kind of home. Shih-Poos come from the loyal, adorable Shih Tzu, and the intelligent, sophisticated Poodle. Unfortunately, like any other breed, these little cutie pies wind up in shelters, from people not wanting a long-term commitment. If you keep your eyes out for a Shih Tzu or Poodle rescue, in your area, that is most likely where you will find a Shih-Poo awaiting adoption. They are not acknowledged as an official breed at the present time. That said, as a mix between Shih-Tzu and Toy Poodle parents, you can expect the Shih-Poo to be on the small side Most weigh in at eight to 18 pounds and range in height from eight to 18 inches. As Poodle and Shih Tzu size can vary between teacup, miniature and standard, the size of the Shih-Poo will also vary. Shih Tzus can be stubborn, but what they lack in trainability, they make up for in personality ten fold. They are incredibly friendly, attentive, and cute, while Poodles are intelligent, trainable, and active. Shih-Poo personalities can vary but typically will fall in the middle of parental traits. Most Shih-Poos are described as friendly and playful. While Shih-Poos enjoy a good siesta, they also enjoy walks and thrive on playtime. They may not be eager to learn new tricks but do enjoy interaction and attention. Shih-Poos may not be as barky as their Poodle parent, but may alert you to any displeasures, such as a missed meal, with a single bark until every few minutes until needs are met. Training and socialization should be established early on. Consistency and positive reinforcement are the ways to go with Shih-Poos. Shih-Poo Health While many designer crossbreeds have improved overall health, they can inherit health issues their parents are prone to. That said, Shih-Poos can typically live approximately 16 years on average in relatively great health. Watch for signs of heat stroke if your dog happens to have a shorter snout. As a small dog, they can be prone to dental problems. Maintain good dental care and have their teeth regularly checked and professionally cleaned. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Make sure Shih-Poos are kept on a dietary schedule. Do not allow free-feeding as they will overeat and rapidly gain weight. They will need regular potty breaks and one or two ten-to minute walks a day for optimal health. Dental issues can be problematic. Regular teeth cleanings are recommended, as well as systematic dental chews and teeth brushings. Your vet should be able to help you establish a routine. Shih-Poo ears should be kept clean and dry. After bathing, take extra steps to ensure this. If your pup gets a smelly, pungent odor, they may have an ear infection. Ear cleaning solution can help keep your pup from getting infections and unnecessary trips to the vet. Shih-Poo Feeding An ideal Shih-Poo diet should be formulated for a small-sized breed with medium energy. High quality food is recommended, as they do tend to have dental issues. They should not be allowed to free feed as they may gain weight. A feeding schedule is ideal with a minimum of treats. They can get the curly fur from their Poodle parent, the straight fur from their Shih-Tzu parent, or a combination of the two, which is most likely. The color will vary, as well. They can come in black, white, brown, brindle, and all variations and color combinations. Daily brushings, as well as monthly groomings, will help keep your pup looking and feeling their very best. You may also want to give them a few baths in between, but not more than weekly, as their skin and coat can get dry and irritated. Shih-Poos prefer to be mostly around adults or older kids who know how to play gently. That said, for children who learn early how to properly approach and play with a small dog, the Shih-Poo can make a great companion. When it comes to other pets, Shih-Poos can get along with other animals if they are introduced slowly and calmly, and early socialization will help this go smoothly. Shih-Poos can be left alone for short periods of time, but a second dog could be ideal for them, especially in their later years. However, you may want to try Shih Tzu or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Shih poos are a cross between a shih tzu and a toy poodle. While some shih tzu breeders breed a poodle to a shih tzu to create first-generation shih poos, it's also common practice to breed shih poos to one another to create multigenerational dogs. As cross-breeds, shih poos are not an officially recognized breed, and there is no breed standard regarding appearance or temperament. Even shih poo puppies born to the same litter may take after one parent more than the other and appear vastly different in coat texture and coloring, says PetGuide. Shih poos fall in the small to tiny range, typically standing between eight and 18 inches at the withers and weighing anywhere from eight to 18 pounds. Their coat may be long, straight and silky like that of the shih tzu, shorter and curly like that of a poodle or it may fall somewhere in between. Despite the appearance, the shih poo's coat barely sheds, making these dogs a good fit for someone with mild pet allergies. Coloring can take after either parent breed. While poodles have solid coats that are typically black, white, gray, brown or apricot, shih tzu coats may be solid or come in various color patterns and combinations. Shoodle coats may mimic the coloring pattern of either parent. Personality: Often, mixed-breed dogs develop a temperament that balances the qualities of their parent breeds. Shih tzus tend to be highly affectionate and extremely charming, but possess a stubborn streak that can make them difficult to train. Poodles, on the other hand, while equally charming with playful and comedic personalities, are highly intelligent dogs who are more eager to please and easier to train. Shih poos, as a result, are often playful, affectionate and quick-witted little charmers, although they may inherit their shih tzu parent's willfulness. Because of this, they often need a firm but patient guide in training, and might not be the best choice for first-time dog parents. What shih poos may lack in trainability, they more than make up for in love and affection. They love to play with toys and get along wonderfully with older children, although due to their small size and hair that's easy to grab and pull, they should be closely supervised around small children. While friendly and great at getting along well with other pets, especially if introduced as puppies, older shih poos might not love having other dogs around. They often do well as only dogs. Even so, these fluffy pups love being close to their people and don't tolerate being left alone for long periods of time. If work or school takes you away from home for long hours, you may need to consider doggie daycare to keep your shih poo happy. Living With: Shih poos are generally versatile dogs that can do well in small apartments as well as larger homes. They need up to 30 minutes a day of play and exercise, which can be satisfied with two or three short walks each day or minute sessions of vigorous playtime twice daily. The rest of the time, they'll be content to curl up in your lap or to cuddle up next to you on the sofa. Shih poos are highly social and love to be around people, so expect them to stick close as you move around the house. While shih poos tend to be long-lived, with some living 17 years or more, they can be predisposed to the same health problems as their parent breeds. These include allergies, patellar luxation , vision problems and endocrine disorders such as Addison's disease, hypothyroidism and Cushing's disease. Shih poos that inherit the shorter snout of the shih tzu may also be prone to respiratory issues, reverse sneezing and snoring. Extra care should be taken to prevent overheating and heat stroke, says Dogtime. And like many small breeds, these dogs may be prone to dental problems and will benefit from regular dental cleanings and daily tooth brushing. Regardless of the length or texture of your shih poo's coat, it will be thick, fast-growing and prone to matting. Daily brushing and monthly visits to the groomer are recommended to keep the coat under control. Limit baths to a few times a month to prevent the skin from drying out. When bathing, be sure to prevent water from getting in the ear canals to prevent ear infections from developing. Shoodles have healthy appetites and will overeat if given the chance, which will lead to unhealthy weight gain. It's best to keep them on a consistent feeding schedule rather than allowing them to graze on kibble throughout the day. Feed your pup a high-quality food dog formulated for small breeds , and keep treats to a minimum. History: Not much is known about the backstory of the shih poo. Unlike other boutique breeds, no breeders have come forward to take credit for introducing the shih poo. Most likely this cross-breed came about unintentionally, with breeders in the U. As a cross-breed, shih poos are not recognized as an official breed by the American Kennel Club, although they are recognized by various designer breed registration clubs, including the American Canine Hybrid Club and the International Designer Canine Registry. Related Pet Care Articles. Although purebred dogs are carefully bred over generations according to the breed standard the written description of the ideal physical and temperamental traits of the breed , hybrid dogs like the shih tzu—poodle mix have no official standard. This means that characteristics like height and weight, body structure, color, coat type, and temperament are less predictable than they are in purebred dogs. Different breeders may have different ideas of what constitutes the perfect shih tzu—poodle mix. Additionally, shih tzu—poodle mixes are not recognized by any of the reputable purebred dog registries such as the American Kennel Club or United Kennel Club. Shih Tzu—Poodle Mix Care The low-shedding coats of both shih tzu and poodles require of upkeep, and the grooming requirements for shih tzu—poodle mixes are similar. Brush daily or every other day to keep the coat untangled and to prevent mats from forming. Like poodles and shih tzu, shih tzu—poodle mixes require regular haircuts from a professional groomer. Also trim the nails every two weeks and check the ears once a week, cleaning them with a pet safe ear cleaner if they appear dirty. Excessive dirt or redness in the ears means a veterinary visit is in order. Shih tzu—poodle mixes are smart, but how trainable they are depends whether they inherited more the eager-to-please personality of the Poodle or the more stubborn nature of the shih tzu. Regardless, positive-reinforcement methods like clicker training using tasty treat rewards gets great results from any dog. Despite being indoor dogs, shih tzu—poodle mixes still need some exercise. Aim for two walks a day or one walk and one play session in a safely enclosed space like your fenced yard. More energetic shih tzu—poodle mixes with trainable personalities might also like training for fun dog sports like agility, flyball, and obedience. Each breed has certain inherited health disorders in their family background, and those health issues can be passed on to the puppies in a litter. Breeding shih tzu to poodles means the puppies could potentially inherit any of the genetic diseases common to either breed. Shih tzu are prone to hip dysplasia , patellar luxation slipped kneecap , and various eye problems including cataracts , progressive retinal atrophy, retinal detachment, and eyelid abnormalities. Responsible breeders start with healthy, well-bred adult purebred shih tzu and poodles and test them for the genetic diseases common to their breed before breeding them together. Responsible breeders should also test their adult shih tzu—poodle hybrids before breeding them to decrease the odds that the puppies will inherit genetic issues. Responsible breeders also offer a health guarantee on their puppies that protects the puppy buyer in case the puppy develop a genetic disease later in life. Many shih tzu—poodles will overeat if you keep the bowl filled, so instead serve measured meals twice a day. Ask to your veterinarian for a recommendation for a healthy food for your shih tzu—poodle mix, as well as an ideal healthy weight for your adult shih tzu—poodle. One parent breed, the shih tzu , is a loyal and attentive lap dog. The other, a toy poodle , is highly intelligent and loves to be the center of attention. The result is a shih-poo or "shih poo" , a versatile and spunky pup packed with superb personality traits. Whether he's a family dog or a companion for seniors, he excels at his role. While shih tzus and toy poodles are both popular dog breeds with ancient and regal history, shih-poos are a relatively new breed. They've only been around for a few decades but are beginning to make a name for themselves. Full-grown shih-poos can be teeny-tiny as small as 7 pounds , or weigh up to 20 pounds. They can come with curly coats like their poodle parent or a more straight coat inherited from their shih tzu side of the family. Shih-poo dogs do require a good deal of grooming , so make sure you have the time and budget for their beauty routines. Appearance Because shih-poos are a cross breed, there's no breed standard that spells out what shih-poos should look like. But, in a word, they're adorable. With hybrid dogs such as these teddy bear shih-poos, it all comes down to which parent's traits dominate. For instance, some shih-poos may appear more poodle-like with a short and curly coat, while others might sport the silky, straight, and luxurious fur that's synonymous with shih tzus. Still, other shih-poos may don a coat that's quasi-curly and semi-silky. The color of their coats can be a bit of a wild card, too. Some common colors are white, black, brown, brindle, gray, red, or apricot—and that's not even including all the possible color combinations. Shih-poos absolutely love to be your shadow! While dogs can have their own personalities, generally speaking, shih-poos tend to be friendly, well-tempered dogs. His motto is: "If you give me some attention, I'm going to love you. She says these dogs will be happiest in homes with owners who are home often and spend a good deal of time with them. Shih-poos are moderate- to high-energy pets, and they are above average in the intelligence department. Though they're affectionate, they're not exactly couch potatoes, Randall says. In short: These pups love to play. While every dog has an individual personality, these pups generally get along well with other household pets, including cats and other dogs. And while these family-friendly pets tend to be great with kids, you'll want to teach your children to be gentle around these pint-sized puppers. Shih-poos are also excellent companions for seniors. These dogs are among those that can live happily in an apartment or a smaller home, as long as they get enough activity and interaction from their family. Though their little legs might not be conducive for hiking up a mountain , they're still spunky and playful. After they tire out, shih-poos will enjoy cuddling up on your lap for the rest of the evening. This hybrid breed loves to be a constant companion and shouldn't be left alone for long periods of time. He'll do best with an owner who's a homebody or who will take him along on errands and adventures. Care Shih-poos are more adorable than athletic. While they aren't exactly running partners , they do enjoy daily walkies and playfully romping around in the yard or park. Randall says shih-poo owners should plan on regular training sessions and daily exercise with their dogs. Like all breeds, shih-poos respond best to positive reinforcement training and receiving treats as rewards. Regular brushing, preferably on a daily basis, is a must in-between grooming appointments. As a part of their grooming, Bruno recommends shih-poos get regular "sanitary trims" underneath their tails, on their bellies, and in their armpits. Shih-poo haircuts can also be as diverse as your pup, with some owners preferring to keep their coats long and others opting for a shorter trim. In addition to regular brushing his coat, Bruno recommends brushing your shih-poo's teeth regularly. Start at an early age to get your pup accustomed to his dental care routine, and brush his teeth at least a couple of times a week bonus points if you can do it daily. In general, shih-poos are an easy dog to care for when you take them to the veterinarian regularly, brush their teeth, and stay on top of their grooming appointments, Bruno says. They aren't particularly subject to major illnesses or health conditions, but, like all small dogs, shih-poos can be prone to dental disease. So, regular teeth brushing can help keep your dog's oral hygiene in good standing, warding off inflamed gums and tartar, Bruno explains. Dental chews can help, too. Shih-poos may also be prone to some orthopedic diseases that affect their bones, joints, or muscles. Some examples could be hip dysplasia , which occurs when the hip joint doesn't develop like it should. When this happens, dogs may limp after exercise or have difficulty jumping or climbing. Patellar luxation , or dislocated kneecap, can be another problem. If your shih-poo inherited prominent eyes from a shih tzu parent, he could have some trouble with cataracts , progressive retinal atrophy , and corneal dryness—issues that should be addressed with your vet. History This hybrid breed probably emerged within the last 30 years when shih tzus were bred with toy poodles. While shih-poos are a relatively new breed, both of his cosmopolitan parents have well-established histories. The shih tzu breed dates back at least 1, years, when they were kept in monasteries throughout Tibet. Some legends say these companion dogs were trained to turn the prayer wheels, according to the Shih Tzu Club , and fantastical illustrations depicted these dogs as little lions. Folklore says Buddha traveled with a little dog believed to be a shih tzu. The American Kennel Club recognized the shih tzu in .The "poo" in shih-poo comes from the poodle, the national dog of France. Despite the affinity for poodles in France, these dogs were developed and bred as duck hunters in Germany. In French, the poodle is known as the Caniche, which translates to "duck dog. Fun Facts In the spirit of playfulness, shih-poos have some silly nicknames. Was this page helpful? If possible, arrange to meet them and spend some time with them. This will give you some idea of their characteristic traits and, while there is no guarantee that these traits will pass on to your puppy, you should look for friendly, alert, and happy parents. Shih-Poos Are Considered Hypoallergenic Shih-Poos, like their Poodle parent breed , are often described as being hypoallergenic which prospective owners take to mean that they will not affect those with allergies to dogs. However, those with dog allergies are allergic to the dander that the dog produces, and not to a specific coat or hair. All dogs produce dander, which is effectively just dead skin cells. However, while there is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog breed, the Poodle is one breed that is known to cause fewer allergic reactions in sufferers, lending some credence to the claim. If you are allergic to dogs or have a condition like asthma, try spending some time with these breeds to see how you react and whether they trigger allergic reactions. Although they are best known as a Chinese breed, they actually originate from Tibet and it is believed that the nation sent dogs to Chinese royalty as gifts, and they were then bred with Pekinese or Pugs. Although the breed has long been popular in China, it was at its most popular in the 19th century. The Empress was so taken with the breed that she considered the dogs to be sacred. This popularity stems from the fact that the little lion dogs have a face that looks like a lion and Buddha was said to have ridden to Earth on the back of a lion. There is some debate surrounding its origins but the breed was either first bred as a water dog in Germany or from the French Barbet. On balance, even though the dog was once named the royal breed in France, it seems most likely that they are a German water dog by origin. Even their fancy hairstyle stems from their early working lives. Today, there are dozens of hybrid Poodle breeds available, including the Shih-Poo. However, they have been bred from two very well-known breeds that we can take information from. Shih-Tzus and Poodles both tend to be friendly and outgoing, and they should not be shy or nervous. This breed is known to get on well with people of all ages, especially those that show them love and adoration. They are very happy to be stroked and loved. This can be further encouraged through positive and continuous socialization at a young age. However, they do not always get on well with dogs outside the family unit but can make companions for existing dogs when bought as a puppy. Small dogs are known for being a bit yappy. They vocalize their feelings, to make up for the fact that they are small. While this is common in a lot of small breeds, it is actually less common in the Shih-Poo, which adopts the quieter nature of the Poodle. Are These Dogs Good for Families? He will happily curl up on your lap for hours if allowed, and he will get on with all family members. He will also enjoy playing, so he is a good dog for older children. As ever, it is not recommended that families with very small children have this dog. Babies and toddlers tend to grab at things when concentrating on them, and this can lead to injury or cause the dog to nip. However, if you want your dog to live with cats or other dogs, it is better to introduce them slowly and at a young age. Shih-Poos do not cope well with being left alone for extended periods of time, so having another dog as a companion can help to alleviate loneliness, prevent boredom, and stop any negative habits that might form. He can make a great family pet for those with older children that know how to play calmly with a dog. He can also be integrated into an existing family consisting of other dogs and even cats. He will benefit from being fed high-quality dry kibble, and you should expect to feed approximately one cup of food a day. This is best served as two small meals and you should avoid free-feeding because this breed, like so many other dog breeds, has a tendency to overeat which can lead to weight issues like joint pain. This is thanks, in part, to their diminutive size. A short, brisk walk in the morning and another in the evening is ideal, and you can supplement this throughout the day by playing with a ball or small toy. He will, however, perform well in agility classes and these can be a great way to exercise his mind as well as his body. This means that you need to offer training at a young age to ensure that they are learning desirable traits and behaviors. Although they are intelligent, the Shih-Poo can be headstrong and stubborn, and they do not always take well to training. The short attention span means that your dog will benefit from short and relatively simple training sessions. You will need a lot of patience to get the desired results, so be prepared to put in some time and effort. Socialization should be considered an important part of training any dog, especially this breed. Good socialization teaches the dog how to behave around strangers and when meeting new people. It also introduces them to other dogs and helps prevent them from being nervous and unhappy. A nervous dog is always on edge and can become nippy. A good way to ensure socialization is with puppy classes. Your Shih-Poo might not want to learn new tricks or other behaviors but is likely to want to meet new people and make new friends, so they will usually relish puppy classes. You can also take walks at your local dog park, which will offer further socialization. Brushing their coat is vital, and you should do this twice a week. You may also need to trim the coat every year, especially around the eyes and face to help ensure that your dog can see properly. Small dogs are especially prone to dental problems, so brush two or three times a week, more often if your dog will let you. In general, you should avoid bathing dogs because it can strip them of natural, protective oils, but it is recommended that Shih Tzu and Poodle Mix owners bathe their dogs every month or two. This can help prevent skin problems that are otherwise prevalent in this breed. Brush at least twice a week, ideally three times, and potentially every day if your dog will let you. The breed also has the potential to suffer from skin and coat complaints. Regular and thorough grooming will help to prevent these problems and can provide them some relief if they are suffering any kind of insensitivity or rash. They can also become teary-eyed, and this can prevent them from seeing properly and may lead to them scratching and rubbing at their eyes, causing further problems. Wipe the tears away when you see there is a buildup and this will prevent your dog from having to do it and potentially irritate the area further. As such, you should be prepared to take them for regular veterinarian checkups and make sure you have good pet insurance because the costs can quickly mount. Despite these potential problems, the Shih-Poo has a life expectancy of between 12 and 15 years with some dogs living much longer than this. Minor Conditions. He may have the curly coat of a Poodle or the long, straight coat of a Shih Tzu, but he always has a cute, alert expression and a sturdy body. Like his parent breeds, the Shihpoo can come in a multitude of solid colors or in a particolor pattern a color plus white. Traits, Personality and Behavior At their best, Shihpoos are playful, friendly and affectionate, always happy to sit in a lap and give a little love. They generally weigh 7 to 20 pounds, depending on the size of their parent breeds. For their size, they are courageous and make excellent watchdogs, but they can be on the yappy side. Choose a Shihpoo if you have older children who understand how to handle a dog carefully. Toddlers can be clumsy and may hurt a Shihpoo unless you can always be there to supervise their interactions. Shihpoos are smart but may be stubborn. To train them effectively, you'll need to figure out how to motivate them. Often, this involves food rewards or somehow inspiring the dog to believe that what you want him to do is his own idea. Shihpoos have a moderate activity level that is adaptable to their owner's lifestyle. They will enjoy a walk or active indoor playtime each day. Some Shihpoos love being in the limelight, and they do well in such dog sports as agility, obedience and rally. Poodles have a reputation for being hypoallergenic, meaning they can be tolerated by people who have allergies to dogs. Because they have the Poodle in their heritage, Shihpoos are sometimes promoted as being hypoallergenic. But allergies are caused not by a particular dog coat type but by dander, the dead skin cells that are shed by all dogs. There is no scientific evidence that any breed or cross breed is more or less allergenic than any other dog. Some people with allergies react less severely to particular dogs, but no reputable breeder will guarantee that her dogs are hypoallergenic. Shihpoos can have different types of fur, ranging from curly to straight, depending on which genes they inherit, but most have a curly or wavy coat. A Shihpoo coat looks its best with professional grooming every four to six weeks, and it requires brushing or combing every couple of days to prevent mats or tangles as well as regular bathing in between appointments with the groomer. Shihpoos are among the breeds that commonly develop reddish-brown tear stains beneath their eyes. Sometimes the stains are related to the dog's diet, and changing foods can help. Your best bet, though, is to wash the face daily, carefully wiping beneath the eyes, to prevent stains from setting. Your Shihpoo doesn't need a bikini wax, but you do need to trim the genital area for cleanliness or have the groomer shave the lower belly area. This prevents urine from staining and stinking up the coat and feces from getting caught in the hair around the anus. In addition, trim his nails at least monthly --more frequently if necessary --keep his ears clean and dry to prevent ear infections and brush his teeth as often as possible. Small dogs are especially prone to periodontal disease. Shihpoos are companion dogs meant to live in the house. They may be sensitive to heat and should never be left outdoors in hot or humid weather. Shihpoo puppies are adorable, and it's one of the reasons they are so popular. Cute puppies sell, and that makes the Shihpoo a favorite of puppy mills and greedy, irresponsible breeders. But there's no need to pay big bucks for a Shihpoo. You can often find a wonderful example of this hybrid dog at your local shelter or through adoption organizations. If you do choose to buy one, however, select a breeder who has done the health testing to ensure that her puppies won't carry the genetic diseases common to both Shih Tzus and Poodles. And while there are no guarantees in life, it's also a good way to minimize the possibility of big veterinary bills in the future. Health Issues Common to Shihpoos All hybrid dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems, just as purebred dogs can and just as all people have the potential to inherit a particular disease. Run, don't walk, from any breeder who does not offer a health guarantee on puppies, who tells you that the Shihpoo is percent healthy and has no known problems, or who tells you that her puppies are isolated from the main part of the household for health reasons. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the Shihpoo and the incidence with which they occur in her lines. Shihpoos may develop health conditions common to both Shih Tzus and Poodles, especially if you aren't cautious about whom you buy from. They include luxating patellas, hip dysplasia, and eye problems such as entropion, cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy. Many toy breeds and small dogs have a condition known as luxating patellas, in which one or both knees are unstable and occasionally slip out of place. Depending on the level of severity 1 being mild and 4 being severe , luxating patellas can be a minor issue that cause the dog little problem or pain or serious enough to require surgical correction. Ask the breeder to show evidence that both of a puppy's parents have OFA patella knee clearances as well as certification from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation that their eyes are healthy. Do not purchase a puppy from a breeder who cannot provide you with written documentation that the parents were cleared of health problems that affect the breed. Having the dogs "vet checked" is not a substitute for genetic health testing.