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Check out our other picks for best quality and value wire dog crates. Wire dog crates are possibly the most used, the most commonly seen and generally speaking what people think of when you mention a dog crate. They come with a single door as standard, but some models have multiple doors side and roof for greater access. Advantages of Wire Crates: Very easy to keep clean. Allows the greatest airflow of all crate styles which is particularly nice in hotter climates. Many models fold flat for portability. Can come with divider panels for adjusting the crate size to suit a growing puppy. Most models have a slide out tray for ease of cleaning. Disadvantages of Wire Crates For some dogs, instead of comforting them being able to look around and see the family, the visibility can cause whining and stress. Some dogs are best covered over…but you can of course cover a wire crate. Can feel exposed, offering little shelter in colder climates. They may be collapsible for portability, but they can also be quite heavy! The noisiest of crates when dogs move around a lot. The easiest of crates to escape from for determined and intelligent dogs. Plastic Dog Crates Check out our picks of the best plastic travel crates. Plastic dog crates are the most often used for travel, particularly air travel. Advantages of Plastic Crates Lighter and hence more portable than wire, metal ones. Bottom of crate can sometimes be used as an open dog bed if the crate is no longer wanted. More sheltered, offering better insulation in colder climates Better for those that whine and cry if they can see activity and want to be a part of it. Less visibility better for easily distracted dogs and a greater feeling of security for a dog. More difficult than most wire crates for escape artists to get out of. Disadvantages of Plastic Crates Enclosed nature can stress some dogs who prefer visibility of their surroundings cure this with crate training! Harder to clean and therefore harder to keep fresh, and plastic can hold odors over time that become hard to eliminate. Cannot fold flat so need more storage space than wire crates. Reduced ventilation can cause overheating in places with a hot climate. Not very attractive, although people have different tastes. Way more practical for travelling types too, as can be folded flat and and weigh next to nothing, making them a highly portable option. Advantages of Soft-Sided Crates Extremely light and portable, most coming with a carry bag. Extremely easy to store when not being used and folded. Soft and flexible, they are more comfortable for the dog inside compared to most crates Great to use when out camping due to being extremely easy to put up and take down. Disadvantages of Soft-Sided Crates Not the most durable and long-lasting. Destructive dogs can literally claw and chew their way out, destroying the crate in the process. Some dogs can learn how to unzip and open the doors. Stylish Dog Crates Check out our list of of high quality, stylish, wooden furniture style crates. There are many styles of crate to suit those people who simply cannot stand the look of a wire or plastic one in their home, or are looking for something a little more stylish. There are crates made from rattan or a variety of finished wood crates available. Advantages of Wooden Crates Can more easily fit into the look of a home and its decor. Can double up as a shelf or end table to offer a usable surface. Huge number of styles available. Disadvantages of Wooden Crates Not good for destructive dogs who can really damage wooden crates. Not good for the house training process as any accidents will leave stains, possibly hard to remove odors and be hard to clean thoroughly. Expensive when compared to the others! In my opinion, until your dog is house trained and completely over their destructive chewing stage, the most practical crate is without doubt a collapsible wire type dog crate. You can see our pick of the best collapsible wire crates available by clicking here. Compared to other styles, a wire crate is by far the easiest to clean if there are any accidents, are highly durable and is the only one that cannot be damaged by the scratching and chewing of a destructive dog…and many Labradors love to scratch and chew! Recommended Crates By Us! With so many crates available to choose from, making the right choice is no easy task. These are the most popular crates with the highest feedback and most satisfied customers you can find. Quality and value proven by the feedback from many, many previous buyers: My Top Recommendation For US Readers: Midwest Life Stages Dog Crate This is — in my opinion — the best value for money crate available and with extremely good customer feedback to be found all over the web, many would agree. With a divider included free of charge, this single crate bought for a new puppy can be resized to provide increasing room and still fit them as an adult. This is one crate you should definitely shortlist and compare to any others you may be considering. They have a huge amount of extremely good customer feedback and receive high ratings from previous buyers everywhere they are for sale on the web. It would be extremely hard to better value in the UK for the money, so is definitely one to consider! But if you have a puppy, buy a crate for the size of adult dog they will grow to become and use a divider to reduce the size of this larger crate to suit them. For Labrador Retrievers this will be a 36 or inch crate. A stainless steel wire crate is the most practical and best value choice for a number of reasons as detailed above. But for transporting in a car or by air, a plastic crate would be the best choice. If you can afford to, I would suggest a permanent metal wire one for the home and a plastic one for travel. For those that would like to preserve an overall look to their house there are many stylish finished wood crates available and I think these can really look good in some houses. More information: This was part 4 in an 8-part series that details everything you need to know about the use of a crate and crate training your puppy. The information applies equally well to dogs of all breeds and not just Labradors. The Entire series is linked to here:. From potty training to behavioral training , a new dog owner has a ton of responsibilities—sometimes more than they can keep up with. Crate training benefits both you and your dog in significant ways. There are more dog crates for sale than you can count, and they come in all different shapes and sizes. Here are some of the top benefits of crate training your lab: Benefit 1. Dog Crates are Cozy and Relaxing Labs love their crate because they offer a safe place to rest, relax, and sleep. Image Source Some labs feel so attached to their crates, they may choose to eat their food inside or halfway in and out. For you, this can also reduce the stress of dealing with anxious dogs. Benefit 2. So here is one of the best training tips: crate your lab puppies to help them become house trained. A crate can help a puppy remain within a smaller area. Benefit 3. Essentially, having labs feel comfortable in their crate gives you options when it comes to transportation, house training, calming a stressed dog, and so much more. Buy an Adult Crate and Section It Off Crate size is really important because adult labs need to be able to get into the crate and turn around. There should be enough space for them to do this, but no more. This is also why a divider can give labs the right fit and adapt to their growth. Besides these tips, all you need to figure out is the size of your lab. Your lab might be taller when sitting upright than he is standing on all fours, so have your dog sit on its behind and look up towards you. Four Types of the Best Dog Crates In addition to different dog crate sizes, you can choose different builds that might suit your lab depending on their age and rambunctious nature. Image Source Type 1. Wire Crate Wire dog crates are the most popular type of dog crate and their construction makes them quite durable. The wire design allows for air to circulate around your pet, which can help cut down on odors. They also allow for handy slide-bolt latches that let you quickly open and close the crate while keeping it secured. Wire dog crates are best for a puppy that is extremely active. The wire construction allows your dog to look out of the crate and see what is going on around him. This is best for dogs that like to be able to see what is going on. Type 2. Plastic Crate The main advantage of plastic dog crates is the fact that they are lighter than metal wire ones. This makes them very portable and easy to move around. You can move them from one part of the house to another depending on where you want the dog to sleep. Plastic crates are often made of high-quality polyurethane, which makes them easy to clean and sanitize. This usually means buying plastic products with a carry handle. Many plastic dog crates have a divider panel, which can be taken out to enlarge the crate and create more room for a growing pup or adult dog. One of the advantages of using plastic dog crates is that they can be used for several different purposes. For example, the bottom of the crate can be used as an open dog bed if the crate is no longer wanted. Type 3. Type 4. Wooden Dog Crate Wooden crates are a great way to get the functionality of a metal crate, but with the luxury appeal of nice wooden furniture. Of course, this is also a much more eco-friendly material than metal. Wood is porous and absorbs urine which means that if your dog has an accident while in the crate, the pee will soak into the wood and leave a stain. You also need to factor in the amount of space in your home and how well you can travel with your crate. Each type of crate comes with its pros and cons. Buying the right size crate is only one of many steps in responsible labrador ownership , so make sure to check out our other training tips for raising a labrador puppy to give your new best friend a long, healthy, content, and happy life. Share on. Measure from the tip of his nose to the base of his tail. From these measurements, you can determine whether your pup will be able to lie down and stretch out fully in his crate. You need to be sure that your pup has enough room to sit and stand comfortably in his crate. Add two to four extra inches to your final figures to find the ideal crate length and height. Instead, buy a kennel that will fit an adult-size Labrador. He will probably make a bed at one end and use the other end as his toilet. An adult purebred Labrador will need a crate that is a maximum of 42 inches long. Most modern dog crates are fitted with two doors. Metal crates tend to be the most popular material. They fold flat for easy transportation and storage. The crate has a single door and comes in inch, inch, inch and inch sizes to accommodate the largest of Labs. The crate comes with a divider included, has a sturdy plastic tray, roller feet to protect wooden floors and also has a carrying handle. The door of the crate has two heavy-duty slide bolt latches to keep the door securely fastened with your dog safe inside. This crate comes in a range of sizes up to 42 inches. It is designed to accommodate dogs up to 70 pounds, making this a perfect dog crate size for a Labrador. This fabric dog crate is perfect for indoor and outdoor use. The collapsible crate can be set up in seconds. The crate is designed for indoor use only and doubles as an end or side table. The crate comes with a plastic tray that slides out for easy cleaning. The crate is suitable for large dogs up to 88 pounds and comes in brown or dark brown. The cover is made from high-quality, durable D mesh fabric, creating a strong, stylish, lightweight crate. The crate can be folded flat for easy transport in the free carrying bag. A convenient handle and hand-carry strap are also included. The crate comes with a cozy fleece lining included. There are three mesh doors for convenience and to allow breathability. Two accessory pockets are incorporated into the design. The whole thing, including the bedding material, is fully washable. If you wanted a Labrador crate to blend with your home, stylish wooden crates that look like smart pieces of furniture are also available. The robust, plastic crate comes in four funky pearlescent colors too. I can personally vouch for the superior quality of this kennel, as I have one myself. The other door is sited at the front of the crate. It fastens with a secure, simple-to-operate, squeeze-together mechanism that can be operated with just one hand. The kennel has ventilation openings on all sides. This US made crate is air travel approved and meets airline cargo specifications. Separate air travel kits are available if required. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Dogs love having a small den to sleep in, and once trained, will find comfort in tucking themselves away in a crate. But Labs come in many different shapes and sizes, and grow quickly as a pup. Benefits of Crating a Dog There are many benefits to using a crate for a new puppy or dog. Safe Sleep and Relaxation Space A crate offers a safe space for your dog to relax and rest in. This is the most important use of a crate and should be your first priority when crate training. House training your puppy will be significantly easier if they are confined to a small space. Puppies innately know not to eliminate in their sleeping area. Using this innate knowledge to your advantage can mean only a few days of accidents in the house. This avoids them chewing on furniture or getting into kitchen cupboards. Labs are an intelligent breed who love to chew. They will quickly work out how to open kitchen cupboards and help themselves to your food. This space is only safe if you have correctly and fully trained your Lab to be relaxed and calm in the crate. Ensure you read over our crate training guide before you attempt to secure your Lab inside the crate. Preparing for Future Travel If you plan on traveling with your dog in the future, then it is wise to crate train them while they are young. This will minimize the stress they feel when they are inside a crate. If they are familiar with sleeping in a crate, they will be able to relax. Dogs will be put into crates at the vets if they ever need surgery or an overnight stay. Again, you can minimize their stress by crate training from day one. Untrained or nervous dogs are a danger to themselves inside a crate. Crating can cause a welfare issue if the dog is stressed inside it. However, most puppies and dogs will get used to and even enjoy the crate once they are trained. What Size Crate for a Lab? As a general rule, your Lab should be able to stand up fully, turn around and lay outstretched in the crate, without too much spare room. Depending upon the individual Lab, they can vary in height and weigh between lbs. Males will be on the larger side and dogs from the showing line will be bigger than working Labs. Measuring Up Since your Lab needs enough room to move around, you can measure them to see exactly what size crate they need. Measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail while they are standing. Add 4 inches to this measurement. Also, measure from the floor to the top of their head while sitting. Add 2 inches to this measurement. This will give them enough room to move around, but not too much room to do themselves any harm. It is easy to set up and comes with roller feet to protect your flooring. The plastic tub style base will contain any accidents and is easily washable. Depending on the size of your Lab, purchase a inch crate or inch crate with the divider. A divider is good for puppies, as you can make the crate space as big or as small as you need to. We recommend the extra-large size to contain an adult Labrador. This would not be suited to young Labs that still chew. What Size Car Crate for a Labrador? Your Lab will need the same sized car crate. They should be able to move around in the crate comfortably, without extra space. If you plan on having the crate in the trunk of your car, you will likely require an SUV or truck as crates take up a lot of space. Crates vs Playpens for Lab Puppies I always use a full sized adult crate with a divider for my puppies. It saves a lot of time and hassle. If you need to confine your puppy or dog to an area for extended periods of time, then it is best to use a playpen instead of a crate. A Lab will require a inch playpen to keep them contained. Playpens can be used indoors and outdoors to keep your dog contained. If you want an even larger contained space, purchase 2 or 3 playpens of the same brand and size and join them together. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. Last Updated on September 28, by Marco C. What dog crate size for lab do you need — how big and what type should it be? They are an amazing tool for training and looking after your lab, as well as keeping it safe in new environments. So, exactly what dog crate size for lab should you get and how should you use it? The ideal size of crate for any dog will be one that allows the dog to sit and to lie down properly. So, first, we should figure out what size kennel for lab is right by measuring your dog. The exact height and weight will vary depending on the model. If your home is spacious enough, you may feel the urge to get your lab a giant crate so that the dog can have lots of extra space. Dogs are den animals and they love to sleep in small dens and holes in the wild. Such dens are naturally small and cozy — they are meant to protect your dog and to make it feel safe. So, the crate must be just large enough for your dog to fit comfortably but small enough for it to be cozy. Besides — most of the time the crate will be kept open so that the dog can go in and out freely. Instead, the smarter way to go about it is to buy a large crate straight away. Many models come with such separators or you can fashion one yourself. Labradors are large and powerful dogs that can have destructive tendencies when they get bored. Metal mesh kennels are the way to in almost every situation. As for its other characteristics, the most popular crate shape is the rectangular one. Two-door models are increasingly popular as they can open from either the short or long side and are quite convenient. The right size for a dog crate is similar to the right bed size for a human bedroom. It should be large enough for the canine to sleep and sit in it comfortably but not more than that. What Size Crate for Labrador? The inch crate is the ideal crate size for a full-grown adult Labrador. Most adult male Labs weigh between pounds. They need an extra-large crate of 42 inches x height, inches x width inches. An adult female Labrador weighing pounds needs a large dog crate of size 36 inches x height inches x width inches. Measure your Labrador to ensure that you get the perfect dog crate size. Take a measuring tape. Make your dog stand on all fours. Make your dog sit on his behind. Measuring the height while your Lab is seated is important because most dogs are taller while sitting than standing. You have the right size crate if the length and height are correct. Find the best Labrador dog crates here! But you must keep upgrading to a large dog crate while your Lab puppy grows. A simple money-saving tip, Buy a 42 inches extra large crate or 36 inches large crate. Some crates come with a divider. As a Labrador owner, you may think you are doing a favor by putting your dog in a crate too large for him. But NO. A crate is meant to be snuggly and cozy. Moreover, your new puppy will use one end as the bed and the other as the toilet if it has a lot of extra space. Four Common Types of Crates While shopping for a crate, there are four typical types you can choose from. Metal Wire Crates A Metal crate is durable, long-lasting, and easy to clean. These heavy-duty crates are easy to transport and store as they fold flat. Some wire dog crates come with a leak-proof plastic tray and roller feet to protect your wooden floors. Wire crate gives plenty of ventilation. Metal crates are the best Labrador crates for lab puppies. Wooden Crates A wooden crate looks stylish and blends with your furniture, but it is expensive compared to other crate types. Soft-Sided Crates Very easy to set up, fold down and carry. These crates are ideal for outdoor trips due to their lightweight nature. Plastic Crates A plastic crate is the type of dog crate ideal for traveling. Petmate is one of the plastic dog crates which meets airline cargo specifications. They can be used as an open dog bed if the crate is no longer required. Avoid getting tempted to choose a large or a smaller crate. A crate with a small space will make your Lab feel uncomfortable. Consider the weight while choosing a crate. An adult male Labrador usually weighs between pounds. A 42 inches crate can accommodate this weight. An adult female Labrador weighs pounds, and a 36 incheslong crate can accommodate this weight. If your Labrador weighs between pounds, a 30 incheslong crate is suitable. Area of the Home Where the Crate is Kept Measure the area where you plan to keep the crate to ensure it fits the space. Consider a multiple-door crate for flexibility. You can buy a collapsible crate for easier storage. Material of the Crate Ensure the material used is durable, long-lasting, and suits your purpose. Is a Crate Essential for a Labrador Retriever? Crates are not an absolute necessity for your Labrador. But veterinarians, dog trainers, and most Labrador parents recommend using a crate as it has many benefits. House training is easier when your puppy is confined to a small space. Crating helps them become house-trained quickly. Labrador puppies chew anything that lays on the floor until they are over a year old. Crating will keep them safe from being poisoned or choked. Crating reduces the likelihood of destructive behavior while you are home away and keeps your possessions safe. Aids during an emergency or standard veterinary care. Crate training at home makes crate training in a car much smoother. Downsides of Using a Dog Crate If your dog is kept in a crate for extended hours, it can cause separation anxiety, fearfulness, depression, cage rage, and other behavioral problems. Crating is dangerous if your dog is wearing a collar or leash. The collar or leash can get stuck on the crate bar and lead to strangulation. Add a warm blanket during winter. Leave room for ventilation. Leave your dog in a crate as little as you can. When crates are used as punishment, your dog will associate the crate with negativity leading to behavioral issues. Teach Your Dog to Enjoy the Crate. Throw some treats into the crate and allow your dog to go into the crate at his own pace. Your dog will associate the crate with positivity when you do this repeatedly. A collar or leash can get caught in the crate bar leading to a strangulation hazard. It depends on the size of the Lab. Some Labradors may need a crate of 48 inches due to their larger size. How Long to Crate a Labrador? The maximum length of time to leave a Labrador in a crate is hours, regardless of the age of the dog. For Lab puppies weeks old, they should not be left in a crate for more than 3 hours. Lab puppies weeks old can be left in a crate up to 4 hours. Should My Lab Sleep in a Crate? Measure your Labrador to get the perfect-sized crate. Dividers can be used if the crate is too large for your Labrador. While buying a crate, consider the size of your Lab, the weight of your Lab, the crate material, and the size of the space where you will put up the crate. Using a crate for your Labrador has its pros and cons. You can eliminate the cons by acting responsibly and not leaving your Lab in the crate for extended hours. With all that said, for a hassle-free purchasing experience, I recommend you check out our detailed guide on the best dog crate for Labs. Was this article helpful? More Information Introduction Labrador Retrievers consistently rank as the most popular dog breeds in the United States and it is not hard to see why. Sweet, friendly, and fun, Labs are the all-American dog, paws down! They are also very well-loved in Canada, the United Kingdom, in many other countries around the world. Due to their loving personalities and intelligence, they are frequently used as therapy dogs to help people who are diagnosed with autism or as a guide dog for the blind. They also can assist in detection and screen work with law enforcement agencies as well as making an excellent search and rescue dog. To round it out, they are also a favorite breed for waterfowl and sport hunting. Its expressive character, good temperament, friendliness, and intelligence makes Labradors one of the most popular family companions ever. Breed This breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in .They are classified in the Sporting Dog Group. They are high energy and are a medium-large breed in size. Labs are classified as retriever-gun dogs which is one of the three types retrievers, pointing breeds, and flushing spaniels. As the name implies, Retrievers.They are meticulously trained to do so without damage to the bird or animal. They are also bred to be obedient and eager to please. This trait that has been bred into this breed makes him coveted as a family member, best friend, hunting, and service dog. As far as the early heritage of the Labrador Retriever goes, their roots go back to the St. There were several events that led to the slow demise of this breed in Canada which was a policy for sheep protection in Newfoundland and a rabies quarantine in the United States. By the s, three noblemen collaborated together and created the breed we now know as the Labradors which was the official origination of the Labrador Retrievers we know today. Interestingly, some Labs today sport the markings of the St. Labs are often described as friendly, outgoing and active. Their lifespan is usually between 12 and 14 years. Appearance Labs have a dense weather-resistant coat that keeps him from getting cold when he gets in water during the wintertime which is a very feature for a waterdog to have. Because it is interwoven, his coat is conducive for swimming. It is short in length, straight but not wiry, and tends to be a little dry yet oily. White labs may range to even having a slight red tint to them. Silver Labs are not accepted by the AKC but they are in some other major dog organizations around the world. The hair on his head is clean cut with a broad back skull and a medium length muzzle. Jaws hang in a graceful manner and curves back just a bit. His eyebrows are slightly accentuated and his eye coloring is hazel or brown. His eyes are expressive and are lined in black, or should be. Lab ears are set just above his eyes and his ears hang close to his head. The tail of a Labrador is fairly broad yet quite strong which is useful to propel him when swimming. These dogs are bred for swimming right down to their toes. Their toes are webbed which makes them even faster in the water and also acts like a snowshoe of sorts, a big help to keep snow from painfully balling between their toes. Labradors are powerful - strongly physically built with an athletic look about them. Males usually weigh in around pounds and females run around .They are equal in distance from tail to withers and from the ground to withers. Specialized breeding has brought about two Lab bloodlines. Show dogs are heavier with bodies that are a little shorter and their tails and coats tend to be slightly thicker. They are also calmer in nature, as a rule. Working Labs from America are higher energy and rightly so for they are field dogs whereas versions from England are bred for their coloration and other characteristics for showing. Labs from America are a little taller and thinner with longer legs and lithe bodies, hence making them more agile. Their heads are narrower and their muzzles, longer. Both English Labradors and those from America are excellent with people although the calmer of the two may be more fit to be around young children. Their differences mostly lay in their physical appearance and in their energy levels for the most part. There is also controversy among breeders. Some classify them in their specializing field type, though not all as others adamantly do not agree with this classification. Despite the differences in the two varieties, Labs are easily recognizable, especially with their sweet faces and kind eyes. They are also prime candidates to be designer crossbreed dogs since they have such a good nature. Nutrition It is recommended to provide feed formulated to medium-sized breeds that is appropriate for the energy level of your Lab. Lab puppies are usually bounding with energy. Your vet may recommend several small meals per day initially. Labs can be sensitive to some foods so be sure to mention any itching, swelling, or vomiting. Your vet will most likely advise a good, high-quality food that will provide enough and other nutrients he needs as well. Labs can be little pigs. They burn off a lot of calories romping about and playing as pups and later, working or playing as adults, and they certainly have been known to become obese, especially when their daily exercise needs are not being met. Labs should boast a trim hour-glass shape. One more note is if your Lab has itchy, flaky skin, you may want to talk to his vet about the possibility of adding fish oil to his diet. It is also important to ensure that clean, fresh water is always available. Grooming Labs typically only shed about twice a year, in the spring and fall. Some, however, shed the whole year round. Much of the rate and frequency of their shedding depends upon the climate where they live. Those who live in very warm areas tend to shed continually. Doing so will also help keep shedding to a minimum. An occasion bath is a must as well. Once a week or more is ideal. Use a doggie toothpaste and either a dog toothbrush or your finger. If you get a nice canine-friendly toothpaste flavor, this sweet dog will probably help you brush them. Labrador Retrievers have fast nail growth and as such need regular trims using a nail clipper or grinder. Overgrowth of nails can cause splitting and cracking. Their ears can build up wax and other matter. To avoid infection, it is recommended to regularly check and clean around the opening but not inside their ears. This can be done with a large ball of cotton wool moistened with veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner or warm, previously boiled water. Be sure to keep their ears dry as Labs are naturally prone to have ear issues. Exercise It is important for Labrador Retrievers to get a lot of exercise. Despite their sometimes laid-back nature, they require plenty of exercise to stay healthy. Remember, Labs were initially bred for the physically demanding and arduous task of retrieving for game hunters. Exercise helps their hearts and muscles stay strong and fit and keeps their minds alert too. Although it depends on the nature and age of your Lab, it is generally recommended to give adults between 45 minutes to 90 minutes of active exercise each day. If your dog still has a lot of energy left over, bump the routine up a bit. Some Labs are more naturally high strung than others. Examples include swimming, jogging, playing fetch and similar activities that provide more intensity than a light walking speed. For puppies approximately 5 minutes per month of age until fully grown is sufficient. For aging Labradors, it is important to monitor their health more closely for signs of sore joints and other health problems. Collapse during exercise is a real threat as is often caused by a medical condition that is not uncommon with Labs. Consult his vet immediately if such a thing happens. Regularly vet check-ups will help determine the appropriate levels of exercise. The lack of sufficient exercise can lead to disobedient behaviors, excessive barking, and other destructive behaviors. It can also lead to weight problems, hip and elbow damage, heart disease, higher blood pressure and a higher incidence of diabetes. This dog loves to hunt so hide-and-go-fetch games are awesome to play with him. He was bred to swim and it will give him both physical exercise and mental stimulation, fulfilling his purpose. Especially when he is young and inexperienced, keep a watchful eye on him in the water. He is such a swimmer, he very well may venture out across the lake or into the ocean. Brain games are also vital for Labs. They are very intelligent and need the challenge. Most models also come with a divider that allows puppies to grow into space. Labrador retrievers are very social active animals. A dog crate will help you keep your dog away from mischief when you are not around to monitor its activities. Click here to learn about the best dog crates for Labradors. Have some toys in the crate for it to chew on to prevent it from chewing on the crate. When you are around, play with it and encourage it to have fun. Be sure to keep an eye on it as they are known to play themselves to exhaustion. More Information Stature Adult male Labrador Retrievers stand between twenty-two and twenty-five inches and they weigh an average of sixty to eighty pounds. Female adults, on the other hand, weigh between fifty and seventy pounds, standing at a height of twenty to twenty-four inches at shoulder height. Personality Known as some of the sweetest breeds of dogs that the world has to offer, these dogs are very loveable and they aim to please. This nature coupled with their high levels of intelligence makes them quite easy to train. Training your Labrador retriever puppy is of the essence as they are filled with high amounts of energy which can be used in destructive behavior where your dog is not well trained. As a result of this energy, these dogs do well in surroundings filled with activity. Labradors make such good companion dogs, you might be tempted to think they were bred for that reason alone. Labs are very versatile and can fit into life on the farm with ease but can also be in small spaces as long as they have plenty of exercise because they are active dogs. Still, recalling the things for which this dog was bred for will help you make sure you give him the ultimate care and understanding. Hunting, fetching, and swimming is what makes Labs tick. They love to roam and need ample exercise. They are also used to problem-solving because that was a skill that was required. They thrive on learning new things and recalling the information they already have. Labs tend to be quite proud of themselves when it comes to using their intelligence. Another thing Labs treasure is pleasing those they love. This made them good hunter and retrievers and make them excellent companions, family dogs, and service dogs too. Labs are awesome with kids. The English, show-type dogs, with the larger heads and bushier tails, are somewhat favored as being great fits with small children. Both types of Labs usually do well with other household pets, even cats though they might try to give chase until trained differently. One tendency they often have, mainly as pups, is that they love to chew. They also do it when pent-up or when they are not getting their energy out. Labs also can be a little much when young as far as their activity level goes. They are considered to be medium-high in activity levels and some, especially the working variety from America, can teeter on the very active side. Labs seem to linger in their adolescence stage. They act like puppies for longer than most dogs. It is adorable, though some behaviors can be unwanted like them tearing up or chewing things. Many suffer from separation anxiety. This dog breed is best with a family where someone is home much of the time. During the hours that no one can be with him, crating may be the best solution. Health Compared to most breeds, these dogs are quite healthy and if you take good care of them, chances are that they will not develop most health conditions that other dogs suffer from. Examples of diseases that your Labrador Retriever could suffer from include but are not limited to cataracts, epilepsy, cold tail, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia. Getting your dog from a good breeder lessens the chances of such diseases if they are hereditary. Labs are generally healthy dogs with a fairly long lifespan. One of the most prevalent is Patellar Luxation, a condition that is much like a dislocated kneecap. The condition can be quite painful and can cause limping and inability to walk altogether. If your Lab is showing signs of having this problem, see his vet immediately. Canine Hip Dysplasia is another problem of the joint Labs are apt to get. It can be present at birth as a deformity of the joints or can come about through environmental issues like jumping too much. It can also develop through excessive wear and tear. If your dog is favoring one leg or is limping or unable to walk, have him checked by his vet. Shoulder Dysplasia is also a common condition among Labs. Again, have your dog checked if he exhibits signs of this condition. Having hot spots is not uncommon with Labs. Also known as a Pyotramatic or Moist Dermatitis, this condition is one that involves a certain area of skin that is inflamed and infected. It is moist and may ooze and is often reddish and painful. Allergies are on the list to watch for in this breed. He is prone to have skin irritations like allergies to soaps his bedding is washed in or to shampoo or soap used in his bath. He may also be sensitive to rolling or laying in grass. There are a multitude of skin allergies a Lab may have and they may also be allergic to food so be careful if you change up his diet in any way. Osteochondritis Dissecans OCD is caused by the cartridge grows abnormally in a dog. It can occur in any joint within his body where two bones come together and there is movement allowed between them. This condition can be due to an abnormality at birth or one that is developed or can be caused by damaged incurred. Diabetes is a medical woe that Labs can be afflicted by. If your dog is acting differently such as becoming tired and lethargic in between meals or is excessively thirsty, it would be a good idea to have him screened. Hypothyroidism is a very real problem seen in Labs. Gaining weight without eating more or exercising less is a sign as is becoming very lethargic and not wanting to exercise. See his vet at the first sign of this problem. A change in diet and possible medication may be recommended. Muscular Dystrophy in Labs is, sadly, a possibility. It is an inherited muscle disease that is progressive and is a non-inflammatory degenerative muscular issue where there is a deficiency in dystophyin which is a membrane protein of the muscle. It is most noted in newborn pups or in dogs that are not yet one year old. Another eye-related condition is called progressive retinal atrophy. Although the list of Lab-related medical issues to watch for may seem excessive and overwhelming, they do tend to be a healthy breed. But, if one of the conditions should arise, being aware and getting prompt help is always the best measure so he can get fixed up and back to being his awesome self again. Proper Care Recreation Labradors are generally very active and social animals. Their social nature makes them ideal for the indoors because if you leave them in the yard alone, they will get bored and they will find ways to keep busy that are destructive, such as digging up your flower beds. Though activity levels vary depending on the type of retriever you have, it is important to keep them active. Exercising your dog on a daily basis helps it manage its stress levels and improves on its overall well being. Take it for a walk or a jog for at least half an hour on a daily basis. This kind of exposure not only helps it release some of its energy but it will also expose it to different people and surroundings, making it more sociable. Do not take puppies out for walks until they are at least a year old. Instead of walks, get your puppy a few toys to keep it busy indoors. When it comes of age, you can go out on long walks. Labs are workaholics and as such, it is important that you put an end to their games to prevent them from exhausting all their energy during play. Labrador retrievers are like any other retrievers and they are happy to have something to carry around in their mouths. Get your dog a toy which it can carry around and chew on when they get bored. They chew a lot and having toys near them prevents situations where they might chew on your clothes or furniture. Having a dog crate enables you to contain your retriever when you are not around to monitor their chewing behaviors. Training Due to their sweet nature, you might think that it is not necessary to train them. Do not make that mistake. These dogs are full of energy and without the right training, that energy will be put into negative uses. They are easy to train and have been known to excel in obedience contests. To start off the obedience training, you can enroll your puppy in a kindergarten where it will be taught how to interact with other animals. You can opt to train your dog on your own and as you do this, use methods that use positive reinforcement for work well done as opposed to punishing your dog for getting a command wrong. In this way, your dog will learn faster and the two of you will get to bond during the process. Have an identification tag on your retriever as they are known to take off in the event when they sense something exciting nearby, such as food. This will help you find your dog easily. Labrador Retrievers are one of the easiest breeds to train. They are smart, eager to please, and are naturally inclined to listen and obey for that stems back to their breeding. Not only were they taught to fetch a fallen fowl or small animal but to bring it back without damaging the bird or animal. Potty training should be fairly easy with a Lab puppy but getting his attention is the trick. Lab pups are busy, busy, busy. It may take a few tries and some patience but he will no doubt master it in due time. Socializing at an early age is a must. This breed is a lover and usually takes quite well to humans but there are exceptions, mostly with those who were never socially trained. Even friendly Labs -can be a nuisance if not properly trained. They need to be taught not to jump up on people and not to wear their welcome out by being pests. Expose him to various animals and different kind of people. Basic obedience will be a key training. Learning when enough is enough during playtime, when to sit, how to behave, etc. He already has the ability, you as his alpha pack leader must bring it out though just as his hunting owners did in the days of old. Labs on a leash can be a little hairy. Positive reinforcement is always in order for Labs. He aims to please so just letting him gently know he missed the mark is sufficient correction. By plenty of praise and a few treats now and then, Labradors will be doing all they can to achieve all you have laid out for them.Advance training is definitely on the agenda if you have a Lab that you want to help reach his full potential in life. Dogs sports, agility training, and even service training are all areas he excels in when challenged. If you are not a natural born trainer or do have the time, patience, or desire to learn to advance your training skills, you might do well to consider hiring a trainer for him. Cleanliness Bathing your lab depends on how clean your dog is. For dogs that prefer to stay indoors, a bath every two months should do the trick. However, if your dog loves to play in the mud, it goes without saying that the baths will be more frequent. When bathing your dog, be on the lookout for sore ears and eyes, a change in the coloring of the fur and any other symptoms that may be indicative of sickness. Labrador Retrievers shed a lot of fur and you should brush it daily to prevent it from shedding all over the house. The more nutritious the food you give your dog, the less amount of food it will need to get full. Measure out the amount of food to give your dog and feed it twice a day. When feeding a puppy, you should consider foods with low-calorie content. This prevents your puppy from growing at a rate that could be damaging to its bones. Labradors love to eat and you will catch them trying to get food from garbage. Ensure that you do not leave food lying about as they will eat it. They grow obese very fast if they are allowed to eat at will and this can bring about some serious health complications. Is a Lab Right for Me? Who could pass up the precious smile of a fuzzy little Lab? But, is a Labrador Retriever a good match for you and your family? They are for many people but.Labs can be high strung, especially those from America, working dog, variety. They can be a handful. They are certainly trainable but.If so and if you are getting a Lab puppy, you might want to put them away. One of the few naughty habits this breed has is excessive chewing. Of course, you will train him NOT to chew or to chew only his toys and treat bones, but.Exercise is a must for this kind of dog. He was brought into existence for the purpose of retrieving as well as a hunting dog. He simply must have his exercise and his mental stimulation as well. Are you willing to train this dog? A good dog is a terrible thing to waste. He is so highly trainable, it would be a sin just to stick him in the backyard. If you are willing to train him or have him trained, however, the stars are the limit. Do you have children? If so, yay! This dog loves children and has been proven to be great with them. If you have considered all the things having a Labrador Retriever entails and are still sure this breed is good for you, congratulations. There are few dogs that can even come close in comparison for being all-around awesome dogs. Post category: Dog Kennel Tips When fully grown, Labrador retrievers are large dogs that need a generously proportioned kennel. The average adult female Labrador retriever usually weighs between 55 and 71 pounds. This size of dog needs a large crate at least 36 inches long, 23 to 24 inches wide, and 25 to 27 inches high. An adult male Labrador retriever usually weighs between 64 and 79 pounds. A dog of this weight class needs an extra-large kennel that is about 42 inches long, 28 inches wide, and 30 to 31 inches high. You can use a smaller crate to safely house a puppy. For instance, when the dog is between 35 and 40 pounds, a kennel about 24 to 30 inches long is ideal. Actually, putting a young puppy into a kennel that is too large for him or her may make the animal feel unsafe. Direct Animal offers multiple sizes and types of kennels for your convenience It can be tricky to figure out the needs of the different dogs under your care. Fortunately, Direct Animal makes it easy and affordable to customize your professional kennel configurations. If you operate a doggy daycare facility, luxury boarding company, or other veterinary-related business, you can turn to the experts at Direct Animal to provide guidance on selecting appropriately sized kennels. Our durable, competitively priced products are designed to protect the health and safety of animals, while allowing for convenience and ease of cleaning for the workers. Made from durable stainless steel and Starlite, our raised kennels , double-stack kennels, and extreme kennels are built to last for the life of your practice. Call us today to request more information about your ideal kennel configurations. You Might Also Like.

We love him so much already. The bar has been set for us. .Thank you, Theresa, you really are the best! Theresa is a caring, experienced breeder who knows the right way to raise puppies. She shared progress almost daily and was always available to answer questions. Even now, a month after bringing our little girl home, she is still available to answer questions or provide guidance. I highly recommend Theresa and Olive Branch Bernedoodles! She has been the most patient, amazing, knowledgeable breeder and foster family for my princess that anyone could ask for.She took the time to get to know each of us and definitely matched us with our perfect companion.Definitely goes to show the time and effort put into these precious little lives will pay off for all of us blessed with the opportunity to welcome them into our family. They grow up so fast. Sign up to receive news and updates. Email Address Sign Up Thank you! We are located in a little known canyon nestled in the foothills of South Orange County, Ca. Pups and parents play under the shade of the olive and oak trees. This is where our puppies start their journey to you…. Theresa Thoburn. Their consistency with coat type, structure and temperament has really come together over the last few years. What is a multigenertaional Bernedoodle? A multigen Bernedoodle is a Doodle who has two Doodle parents past the F2 generation. F1- Bernese Mountain dog or any coated breed crossed with a poodle. The degree of shedding and furnishings will vary. F1b- F1 Doodle crossed back to a Poodle. F2- F1 Doodle crossed with another F1 Doodle. This is the most inconsistent generation of Doodles. With any combination on those two locus. Our multigen mini Bernedoodles mature in the lb range and will all have at least one copy of furnishings. Our standard multigen Bernedoodles will mature in the lb range. We strive for fully furnished, straight or wavy coats that are as low to non shedding as possible. Genetic coat testing is done on all of our breeding dogs to ensure we match up only the best possible pair both health and coat wise. We put a lot of time and effort into making sure our matches are perfect. How Big are Bernedoodles vs. Mini Bernedoodles? They are anywhere from inches tall, depending on sex and influence from the breeds that they originate from. Mini Bernedoodles average between 25 to 59 pounds in weight and can be anywhere from 18 to 22 inches tall. They are a great size for those who want the temperment of an adorable Bernedoodle without the large size. What is The Temperament of a Bernedoodle? The Bernedoodle has a calm and gentle nature. They are sweet, loving, cuddly, and great with children. They tend to have an easier going nature which also means they can be slower to learn something new when it comes to training. What colors do Bernedoodles commonly come in? Each Bernedoodle has its own unique coat, much like their personalities. Depending on their genetic coat make up, they can have straigh, wavy or curly coats. We breed all sizes of this adorable breed! Whether you are looking for a regular Bernedoodle or a Mini Bernedoodle, Shady Oak Doodles can provide you with the perfect puppy! Bernedoodles Litters For Sale.

This food is made for Pugs ages 8 weeks to 10 months. On the other hand, the ingredients list for this food leaves something to be desired. It lists brewers rice as the main ingredient with the second ingredient being chicken by-product meal. For such an expensive Pug food, they sure skimped on the quality of the ingredients! Pros Supports healthy skin, digestive health, and natural defenses Specially shaped kibble is easier for brachycephalic dogs to pick up Cons Brewers rice is the main ingredient 4. It might be expensive, but if you can afford it, it could help keep your pug pup healthy and happy for the long haul. Pros Helps support healthy brain and eye development Contains omega fatty acids for improved skin and coat Lists deboned chicken as the main ingredient Cons 5. Their Wilderness Puppy Grain-Free Dry Dog Food formula takes things even further with higher levels of protein than their original formula. The use of high-quality ingredients in high concentrations is what earns this food its rather expensive price tag. More than just healthy whole-food ingredients, this food is also fortified with healthful nutrients and supplements. Furthermore, it contains an optimal blend of essential vitamins including calcium, phosphorus, and more, to help support healthy bone growth. Pros Contains high levels of protein Uses high-quality ingredients Packed with healthful nutrients and supplements Cons More expensive than most puppy foods 6. We loved the large pound quantity you can buy it in and the relatively affordable price. Others ate the food but had difficulty digesting it. Still, dogs with sensitive stomachs, in particular, would do well to avoid this food. And the total number of dogs all breeds in the reports are .So while this is something that should be monitored and many more studies need to be done, it's important to keep in mind that this is a very small number compared to the estimated 77 million dogs in the U. The latest update is that there are no recalls at this moment that are linked to this issue. The Best Food for Pug Puppies and Adults What to Avoid: Quite a few ingredients that are found in a lot of dog food brands can be severely detrimental to a Pug and cause everything from allergic reactions itching, rashes, wheezing, running eyes, etc. Corn which includes as corn germ meal, corn gluten meal, and corn bran High grain counts which includes high levels of wheat, oats, barley, and other cereal grains which may be listed as hominy feed. Rice can be an exception; with rice, the hull, bran layer, and cereal germ is removed and for this reason, rice is often tolerated very well. By-products which are animal body parts deemed unfit for human consumption and can include brain, lungs, undeveloped eggs, and more. Generic meats or oils which can legally include roadkill and deceased zoo animals. What to Look For: All-natural preservatives; there are vitamin blends that work very well to preserve dog food and this often will show as mixed tocopherols. Natural flavoring Protein will come from wholesome animal sources including chicken, turkey, lamb, fish, bison, and beef. There will be no by-products or generic meats. If you offer grains, gluten-free grains are usually best. No other fillers or controversial additives. Helpful extras such as glucosamine and chondroitin beneficial for joint health , omega-3, 6 for healthy skin and coat , probiotics for immune health and antioxidants to help prevent disease. Some of the best food for Pugs includes: Best Formulas with Grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health for Small Breeds. The base of this kibble is turkey and oatmeal which is easy on the stomach for most Pugs. There is also salmon, brown rice, peas, carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, blueberries, and apples. There are excellent levels of a wide-range of vitamins and minerals, good levels of omega-3 and 6, and glucosamine and chondroitin which are extremely beneficial joint supplements for Pugs. This is made in the US. Note that this offers puppy and adult formulas as well as 'healthy weight' for Pugs that need to lose a few pounds, and a senior formula. This line of Halo offers holistic recipes. This one has non-GMO produce and meats that are antibiotic-free and hormone-free with factory-free farming. The grains in this are oatmeal and pearled barley which are generally known for being well-tolerated. This is sized ideally for Pugs, and has no artificial additives, by-products, or corn. And, this is made in the US. Best Grain-free Formulas: 1. This is one of the best grain-free kibbles for Pugs; it's really top-of-the-line. The base is chicken and turkey. There is a wide selection of vegetables and fruits compared to some other brands spinach, broccoli, carrots, kale, sweet potatoes, apples and blueberries. Levels of omega fatty acids are ideal, via both salmon oil and flaxseed. And, there are good levels of glucosamine and chondroitin which as mentioned earlier are important for joint health. There is no corn, wheat, by-products, fillers, or artificial coloring, flavoring, or preservatives and this is made in the USA. This is another excellent choice that is formulated for dogs under 70 lbs. There are several great bases including lamb, beef, chicken, and salmon. There are zero chemical preservatives and no artificial ingredients. Added extras are healthy antioxidants, omega-3 and 6, and the very important glucosamine and chondroitin which are very beneficial for breeds like the Pug that are prone to joint and hip issues. This is a holistic kibble that offers non-GMO veggies and fruits and sustainably-sourced wild-caught fish and is ideal for Pugs that are carrying a few extra pounds. The base is salmon and whitefish, so most dogs love the taste. There are no chemical preservatives, corn, by-products, coloring, or fillers. Switching a Pug onto a Different Food If you just got a new Pug puppy, you may want to feed your little guy or gal something different than what was being given. And in many instances, this will be a good idea. The sooner you start your pup on a superior food that you've chosen yourself, the better. If you have an adult Pug, you may decide to switch foods due to an intolerance to certain ingredients some dogs do best with certain proteins like beef as opposed to chicken or vice-versa or maybe you realized that your Pug was not on the brand and you want to make a change. No matter the circumstances, if at all possible, it is best to change to a new brand of dog food in a gradual way because a quick switch can disrupt the digestive system. The goal should be a incremental change over the course of 3 weeks. Home Cooking Owners decide to home cook for their dogs for a variety of reasons: It can be less expensive; though, this depends quite a bit on what you buy and if you can purchase ingredients in bulk. It may be done to fully avoid preservatives, additives, by-products and other subpar ingredients; you know exactly what you are putting in. This can help avoid an intolerance or allergic reaction to an unknown ingredient. It is very flexible and adjustable. It can be a good choice for picky eaters. Other sources include beans such as lima beans, kidney beans, and butter beans must be cooked. Vegetables - This includes peas, carrots, spinach, zucchini, green beans, bell peppers, and butternut squash. You can also offer asparagus, kale, cauliflower, and broccoli in moderation since these foods can cause gas, Pumpkin in moderation is fine but typically reserved to help ease upset stomach issues. Fruits - This includes blueberries, raspberries both are low calorie, high in antioxidants, and water-packed , strawberries, huckleberries, banana, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, mango, kiwi, pear, peaches no pit , plums no pit , nectarines no pit , fresh pineapple, and apple no core, no seeds. Additional - This includes oatmeal plain , white or brown rice if no intolerance , quinoa, potato, sweet potato, cottage cheese, plain whole white yogurt, and eggs most dogs do best with scrambled eggs vs. Read more about home cooking for a Pug. Snacks and Treats We've covered the frequency of giving snacks and treats, but let's recap. Dry snacks, meant to satiate a dog in between meals should be given 3 to 4 times per day. And moist treats, meant to reward training and reinforce good behavior, should be given as needed. Now, the question remains on what to offer. All snacks and treats should be held to the same high standards that you have in place for your Pug's meals, meaning no synthetic preservatives, artificial coloring, artificial flavoring, soy, corn, by-products, high wheat levels, or generic meats. If your Pug's calorie intake needs to be carefully watched due to issues with weight gain, there will also be a need to opt for some low-calorie treats. And, to see more options, including moist treats for giving reward, continue on to the best snacks and treats for Pugs. After 2 to 3 days, if the problem has resolved, adding in additional ingredients can be done. Any diarrhea lasing longer than 3 days or moderate to severe vomiting lasting more than 12 hours should be brought to the attention of the veterinarian. Water Different elements will dictate just how much water a Pug dog requires , though a general rule of thumb is that each day, dogs need to drink about 1 ounce for each 1 pound. Offer bottled spring water or use a filter device like the. Related Articles: When a Pug is a Picky Eater - If you find yourself constantly scrambling to find foods that your Pug likes and their taste buds seem to change weekly, this will help you get things back on track. When a Pug is Always Hungry - If your Pug's appetite is ferocious and nothing seems to satisfy, these issues may be at the root of the problem. When a Pug Won't Eat - If your Pug puppy or dog refuses to eat or getting them to eat feels like a chore, these tips will help. How to Stop a Pug from Begging - If your Pug wants your food and is relentless about getting it, these guidelines will help stop this sort of behavior. Top 10 Pug Dog Eating Problems - A roundup of the most common eating-related issues seen with this breed and exact steps to resolve them. Do you have your book? All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Introduction Importance of choosing the right food for Pug puppies Feeding your Pug puppies the right food can significantly impact their health, growth, and overall well-being. A balanced diet provides the necessary nutrients and energy to support their growth and development and helps to prevent common health issues such as obesity, digestive problems, and food allergies. Factors to consider when selecting the best food for pug puppies When choosing the best food for your Pug puppy, there are several factors to consider, including their age, activity level, and specific nutritional needs. Reading the ingredient list and checking the nutritional content can help you to make an informed decision about the best food for your Pug puppy. Wet Food for Pug Puppies Benefits of wet food Wet food is an excellent option for Pug puppies as it is highly palatable and provides additional moisture, which is important for their growing bodies. Wet food also contains higher levels of protein and essential nutrients, making it a great option for supporting the growth and development of your Pug puppy. Best-reviewed wet food options Royal Canin Pug Puppy Wet Dog Food — This wet food is specifically formulated for Pug puppies, with a balanced ratio of protein, fats, and carbohydrates to meet their unique nutritional needs. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy Wet Dog Food — This wet food is made with real meat as the first ingredient and contains wholesome brown rice, barley, and oats to provide the carbohydrates your Pug puppy needs to grow and develop. Dry Food for Pug Puppies Benefits of dry food Dry food is another great option for Pug puppies as it helps to clean their teeth and promote good oral health. Dry food is also a good source of essential nutrients and energy to support the growth and development of your Pug puppy. It contains a balanced protein, fats, and carbohydrates ratio to meet its unique nutritional needs. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy Small Breed Dry Dog Food — This dry food is made with real meat as the first ingredient and contains wholesome brown rice, barley, and oats to provide the carbohydrates your Pug puppy needs to grow and develop. Homemade Meals and Snacks for Pug Puppies Benefits of homemade food Homemade meals and snacks are an excellent option for Pug puppies as they allow you to control the ingredients and ensure that your pup gets a healthy and balanced diet. Simple homemade meal and snack recipes for pug puppies Puppy-Friendly Meatloaf: Mix ground turkey or chicken, brown rice, carrots, and green beans for a tasty and nutritious homemade meal for your Pug puppy. Bake in the oven until fully cooked, and serve in small portions. Homemade Puppy Treats: Mix rolled oats, pumpkin puree, and a beaten egg for a simple and healthy snack for your Pug puppy. Roll out the dough, cut it into bite-sized pieces, and bake in the oven until crispy. Use high-quality, fresh ingredients, and avoid using spices and seasonings that can harm dogs. Store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain freshness. A: Wet food can provide a higher moisture content, which can benefit Pug puppies as they need to stay hydrated. Wet food also has a more appealing taste and smell, making it a great option for picky eaters. Q: What ingredients should I look for in dry food for Pug puppies? A: Look for dry food that contains high-quality proteins like chicken or fish, whole grains, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Q: Can I feed my Pug puppy homemade meals and snacks? Q: How often should I feed my Pug puppy? A: Pug puppies should be fed 3 to 4 times a day until they reach six months of age. Then, they can be fed two times a day. The food they need will depend on their age, weight, and activity level. Q: What is the best food for Pug puppies with sensitive stomachs? A: Wet food with simple ingredients, like boiled chicken and rice, or dry food specifically formulated for sensitive stomachs can be helpful for Pug puppies with digestive issues. Q: Can I feed my Pug puppy adult dog food? A: No, adult dog food does not provide the appropriate nutrients for Pug puppies as they are still growing and developing. Puppy-specific food is formulated to meet their unique nutritional needs. Gradual changes over a few days to a week are recommended to avoid discomfort. Conclusion Recap of the best food options When choosing the best food for your Pug puppy, several options exist. Dry food is also a good option as it helps to clean teeth and is easy to store. Final thoughts The most important thing is to choose a food specifically formulated for Pug puppies with high-quality ingredients to meet their unique nutritional needs. Choosing the best food for your Pug puppy will give them the foundation for a happy and healthy life. From pet nutrition books to online articles, a wealth of information is available on this topic. These resources will give you a deeper understanding of the nutritional needs of your Pug puppy and help you make informed decisions about the best food options for their growth and development. Although certain health issues that Pugs may experience are congenital and beyond our control, others can be influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors, such as diet. Some of the most common health issues faced by Pugs include the following: Food allergies. Certain ingredients in their food can cause allergies in Pugs. Food allergies in Pugs may present as dry, itchy skin, ears, or paws. However, unlike allergies, food intolerances do not involve the immune system but can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. We highly recommend conducting an at-home dog food allergy test like the 5Strands kit. This particular kit can test for up to ingredients and determine which ones may cause food intolerance in your dog. Once you receive the results, you can use the list to avoid dog food formulas that contain potential allergens. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS. Due to their compressed noses and flat faces, Pugs are prone to breathing difficulties and an inability to cool down easily. Eye problems. Pugs are at risk for various eye health issues, such as distichiasis, cataracts, dry eye, entropion, corneal ulcers, progressive retinal atrophy, and more. Ear infections. Pugs have narrow ear canals and deep skin folds around their face, making it easier for debris and bacteria to accumulate, leading to ear infections. Skin infections. Skin fold dermatitis is common in breeds with wrinkled skin, such as Pugs. Luxating patella. Pugs are susceptible to luxating patella, where the kneecap moves out of its normal position. Mast cell tumors MCTs , a type of skin cancer, are common in middle- to senior-aged Pugs, with cancer being the leading cause of death for the breed. Pugs are prone to obesity, which can exacerbate other health issues. Pugs are also susceptible to diabetes. Pugs are prone to obesity, leading to numerous health issues and decreased activity levels. A proper diet and sufficient exercise are crucial to keeping your Pug at a healthy weight. Overfeeding or providing nutrient-poor food can contribute to weight gain, which may result in a Pug becoming less active and more lethargic. More active Pugs require more calories and nutrients to sustain their energy levels, whereas less active Pugs require fewer calories to prevent weight gain. Pug Puppies. Require a diet that is higher in calories and protein to support their growth and development. They also need a balanced calcium and phosphorus diet for healthy bone growth. Feeding high-quality puppy food formulated explicitly for bulldog puppies can help ensure they receive the necessary nutrients during this crucial stage. Adult Pugs. Require a diet that is lower in calories and protein to maintain their weight and prevent obesity. They also need a balanced diet of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to support their overall health and energy needs. Senior Pugs. Senior dogs may require a diet lower in calories and fat to maintain a healthy weight and higher fiber to support digestive health. Senior dog foods often contain joint supplements to help mobility and joint health. Avoid common allergens. Pug often develops food allergies or intolerances, so it may be helpful if your dog food is free from common allergens, such as corn, wheat, chicken, and beef. Pugs can have sensitive digestive systems. Look for a dog food that adds probiotics to its formula. Dog probiotics support a healthy digestive system and immune system. Pugs can be prone to digestive issues, so look for dog food that is minimally processed, such as fresh dog food or homemade dog food for Pugs. Lower-quality kibble may contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and other ingredients that can be harder to digest and may cause digestive upset in some dogs. Easy-to-eat kibble size and shape. Brachycephalic breeds like Pugs have shortened skulls that can cause breathing and eating difficulties. Opt for dog food with a small, flat, or round kibble shape that is easy for Pugs to pick up and chew. Balanced Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. Omega fatty acids can help support healthy skin and coat, reducing the risk of skin infections around the face and ears. They also help with skin inflammation and support healthy and shiny dog coats. Foods rich in antioxidants such as beta-carotene, lutein, and vitamins A, C, and E can help protect the eyes from oxidative damage. These nutrients are found in many fruits and vegetables. Low-glycemic carbohydrates. To help manage obesity and diabetes, choose dog food containing low glycemic carbohydrates, such as sweet potatoes or legumes, which release energy slowly and help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Low-calorie content. Joint support supplements. Look for dog foods containing joint support supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM, which can help maintain joint health and reduce the risk of a luxating patella. Chapter 2: The Reviews. How much and often to feed The best food for Pug puppies is easy to swallow, but still provides them with a complete diet. Because while this adorable dog is partially popular for that cute little face, their flattened features make finding the right food a little trickier. Chewing and Swallowing Pugs are brachycephalic , which means that they have been bred for their wider muzzles. This flat face makes it tricky to breathe, even more so while they are trying to eat. Pugs are also prone to retained deciduous teeth. Again, making chow down more of a chore. Nutrition Matters Pug puppies have different nutritional requirements to adults. They need more fat and more protein, along with additional amino acids and minerals. They should also have more omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA for brain and eye development. Feeding growing puppies the right balanced commercial diet can help keep them healthy. What is the Best Food for Pug Puppies? Puppy food is good for puppies, of course, because it includes more energy-intensive ingredients. However, you should be cautious. Research shows our understanding of specialist dog foods needs to be more nuanced. For example, researchers have found that even dogs within the same family had a 20 percent difference in energy requirements from their food. It also showed that temperature may play a role in their needed energy requirements. Basically, your dog has individual needs that must be balanced against each other when it comes to health and growth. But Pugs are one of the breeds that may be able to benefit from specialist dog foods. This is because of their conformational and health issues, and their low energy level. Bespoke meals may be able to address their obesity issues and come in sizes that are easier for their teeth to pick up. The formula supports skin and digestive health as a Pug puppy is growing, but without adult natural defences. This formula is designed to be easy to digest. It also comes in a variety of shaped pieces, which should help your pup to pick it up. Designed with protein-rich chicken, wholesome whole grains, and garden veggies and fruit. This specialist food uses natural ingredients and great quality designed to support the healthy growth and development of puppies. The grain-free puppy formula features farm-raised chicken. It is designed for easy digestion and weight management in young dogs. The kibble is small so puppies of small breeds can pick it up more easily. High-quality ingredients include a blend of veggies and fruit. The Puppy Stew version of this puppy food for small breeds provides balanced nutrition for little dogs under a year old. The formula includes high-quality lean protein. It promotes healthy digestion, and comes in a tiny peel and serve tray with the exact serving for a small pup. The formula used to create this chicken, oatmeal and salmon recipe supports complete, balanced health. Wellness Complete Health uses a guaranteed level of minerals to promote bone growth. It contains natural sources of DHA for brain development and has more protein for building muscles. Pugs gain weight easily. In such small dogs even 1 lb. And extra weight can exacerbate the breathing problems that pugs may already have. The amount of food a Pug puppy needs depends on a lot of factors, including age and activity level. You should feed a puppy four times a day, until about 6 months of age. Then you are able to reduce to three or two times if you like. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own.

This cross means that Australian Shepherd Mix puppies can have the traits of an Australian Shepherd, the other dog breed in the cross, or any combination of both of the parent breeds. On the Australian Shepherd side, you have a loving, loyal, dedicated, and high-energy working dog that also makes a great pet for an active family. This, in addition to meeting the puppy and the mother dog in-person, will give you a good idea of what to expect in your puppy. If the Australian Shepherd Mix takes after the Australian Shepherd, they will be a highly intelligent and highly active dog that loves to be doing things with their families. Although Australian Shepherds are high-energy working dogs with herding instincts built-in, they tend to get along well with children and are highly protective of their families, which makes them good watchdogs and guard dogs. They can be wary and suspicious of strangers and other dogs, but with socialization early and often, they can take on a more open and friendly nature. Asking the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross will give you a better idea of what temperament to expect in your Australian Shepherd Mix puppy. Puppies raised in the same litter will often learn how to behave from their mother, so meeting the mother dog in-person will also give you a good idea of what sort of temperament your puppy might have. Depending on the other dog breed in the cross, the Australian Shepherd Mix is likely to be highly adaptable. An Australian Shepherd can adapt to large homes with plenty of space to run as well as smaller apartments, as long as they are given plenty of exercise and attention. They also do well in both cold and warm climates. This could change a bit depending on the other parent breed, but asking the breeder about the parents is a good way to determine what to expect. The Australian Shepherd is a relatively healthy dog breed, but there are some potential health issues to be aware of. These include deafness, allergies, cancer, hypothyroidism, epilepsy , and sensitivity to certain drugs. Talking with the breeder about the genetic history of both of the parent breeds, any breed-specific issues with the other parent breed, and asking to see any health clearances can help allay several potential health concerns. Australian Shepherds are highly intelligent, tend to be sensitive to their owners, and are innately eager to please. If the Australian Shepherd Mix takes after their Australian Shepherd parent, they will be a good fit for an owner of any experience level. The grooming level to expect in an Australian Shepherd Mix will depend heavily on the parent breeds in the cross. An Australian Shepherd does shed year-round with two heavier seasonal shedding sessions and will require regular brushing to maintain a healthy coat. If kept groomed, they only need to be bathed when they are dirty, which keeps their bathing needs low maintenance. You will want to ask the breeder about the other dog breed in the mix to get a better idea of what coat types you could expect. If the Australian Shepherd Mix has ears that flop over, they will be more prone to ear infections as their ears are more likely to trap moisture, dirt, and debris. You may just need to check floppy ears more often. Dental disease is one of the most common, and most preventable, health issues in dogs. Good dental care for your dog could include one or a mix of brushing their teeth daily, using enzyme toothpaste, dental chews, and more. Because the Australian Shepherd has such a high energy level, you need to be prepared for an Australian Shepherd Mix to require a lot of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Not only do Australian Shepherds need a job to do, but they also need to run and play a lot to expend energy. This could vary in an Australian Shepherd Mix depending on the other breed in the cross, but you will need to be prepared for the possibility of a high-energy working dog. An Australian Shepherd usually stands 18 — 23 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 35 and 70 pounds. The size of an Australian Shepherd Mix can be greatly affected by the other parent breed in the cross. Asking the breeder about the other parent breed and meeting the mother dog can give you a good idea of what size to expect in your Australian Shepherd Mix puppy. Australian Shepherds generally live for 12 — 15 years. Although the other parent breed of an Australian Shepherd Mix can affect the average life expectancy slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span from them. Featured Australian Shepherd Mix Article. Even at this young age, Dagger exhibits a keen.Shes in excellent shape and looking for a active family. He was born on June 22nd and is 9 weeks old. He eats solid food and use puppy pads already. Petersburg 7 Beautiful Great Pyrenees and Anatolian shepherd mix puppies left! Winnipeg Puppies born on August 22nd. Mother is a mix of German shepherd and Great Pyrenees. Father is pure bred Kangal. The dogs are great watch and shepherd dogs as they are trained to be around farm.He is good with children. Very loyal dog Comes with food bowls, cage, leash , collar.German Shepherd Blue heeler mix. Located in Hepworth. Delivery can be arranged. There are 4 of nine pups to choose from, the pics say if the pup is male or.Mother is onsite. All puppies have been vet checked, had their 1st shots, and.Despite my deep affection for him, it has become.They were born on June 22nd and are 11 weeks old. They eat solid food and use puppy.The mom is the bigger beige one in the photos. The dad is also completely beige. Great and knownfor being a nanie dog, a.Ready To Go! The proud parents had a litter of 7 to choose from. Dad is a.One of their other names, the Shichon Teddy Bear refers to their.Born right on our front step, these sweet-hearts have been handled from day one. Friendly and playful, each.Pyrenees Lab mix - last two puppies are girls. Contact for further information. Serious enquires only please. Born July .Mom and Dad have excellent temperament and are.I brought these.There are 3 females and 1 male. The male is now sold. Mom is our family pet, quiet and calm and loves children. Ready to go home with you! Females and males available. Showing 1 - 16 of 16 resultsPage 1 - 16 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. Female White w. They're great additions to anyone's life due to their high.This gentle yet excitable young dog can't wait to start his new life with you. Lucky looks for every opportunity to make new dog friends to run around and.The pups come from very good temperament and sane parents. Both parents are very social and friendly. Puppies are very social, friendly.He is good with children. Very loyal dog Comes with food bowls, cage, leash , collar.There are 3 females and 1 male. The male is now sold. Guaranteed to win your heart Mom is a corgi. Dad a mini aussie. Located 30 min.Let's introduce the parents: The mother is a stunning King Shepherd mix with chestnut honey eyes. She's an exceptional and devoted mother to her.Born July 30th and will be ready to go as of September 24th! Perfect temperament for families or one person. Born juilliet 30, at pm. Good looking shiba mini aussie puppies looking for new homes each 2 boys 2 girls Shots dewormed and vet checked 25 lbs full grown each. Not vet checked. Very playful.

Teach them to walk nicely on a leash for exploration and pack walks. Train them to basic and advanced obedience commands for a better relationship. Offer fair and consistent discipline to develop rules. Training your German Shepherd puppy involves teaching them how to be successful in your world and life. This means they need to understand what you expect of them and how you communicate your expectations. Use the Right Tools for the Job Use the right tools for your puppy or adult and follow the training steps below to begin basic training with your German Shepherd. Teaching obedience without these supplies makes the work harder on you. Buy the right tools. Here are some of the best examples of great tools for your training. Having the right tools makes all the difference. You also need some tasty treats. Use pea-sized pieces of cheese, small bits of cooked chicken, or one of these yummy German Shepherd healthy treats of your choosing. Follow this German Shepherd training guide to teach your dog the basics of obedience at home. How to Train a German Shepherd to Sit Teaching your dog sit is one of the easiest German Shepherd training commands for your puppy or dog. Your pup sits hundreds of times in a day. Now all you need to do is connect the motion to the command. Teach Sit Step-by-Step Start with your dog in a standing position. Have your reward treat in your hand. Show your pup the treat is in your hand. Move your hand over their head as you keep the treat near their nose. As their head raises to look at the treat, their bottom begins lowering to the ground. We want your dog to associate the correct motion with the reward first. After a few sessions, say sit when their entire bottom is on the floor. Remember to reward them only when their bottom is on the floor. Once you are sure they know the command, increase your distance from them when you give the sit command. Your goal is to say sit from a long distance and your puppy performs. Practice in different rooms inside your home and use a variety of distances while training indoors. Move to the outdoors with a secure long leash when your pup is ready for more distractions and distance. Start with the last success. Stay keeps your dog in one spot until you release them and is essential training. For advanced training, use stay to transition from one command to the next. Begin indoors in a quiet area free from distractions. Hold the leash in your left hand. Use the right hand to signal to stay while standing directly in front of your dog. Raise your hand and turn your palm toward your dog. When he stays with success, walk toward him and give him the treat. Now add in the word stay when your dog performs the stay behavior correctly. Increase the stay time your dog is in the stay position beginning with 5 seconds and working up to one minute or more. Next, work on extending the distance between you and your dog while in the stay. Take a few steps back each time you train. Your goal is to reach the end of your leash while your pup stays in place. This could take many sessions over weeks or months. Guide to Advanced Stay Techniques Once you are at the full distance of your leash, drop the leash and work on having your dog stay while you move into different rooms. Add in distractions, such as friends walking around while you train your GSD. For the final steps, have your dog on the long leash and train in your backyard. Extend the leash as far as it will reach and have your dog stay in place for 30 seconds or longer. Move to outdoor training at a quiet park and repeat the steps for increasing distractions. You can use this time to plan for the next command or simply to have them wait on you. Teach Down Step-by-Step Start with your dog or puppy in a sitting position. Have a tasty treat in your closed hand. Let them see you put that treat in your hand. Move your hand toward the floor in front of them. Your pup will follow the treat into a down position. Offer them the tasty treat and praise them immediately when they are in the down position. You want to make sure they know the motions first. Continue practicing this technique throughout the day. After a few sessions with your pup performing the correct motion, add in the word down. Give him his tasty reward when he is in the down position. Practice in different rooms to ensure your dog knows the command. Move to areas where there are distractions, such as a busy room in your house, and even outside while on a leash. Use the long leash for outdoor sessions and safety. Increase the time your dog is in the down position by taking a long time to offer the treat. A reliable recall come is part of your basic obedience training. When they come to you, reward them with a happy voice and a good boy. You may want to step a few feet backward while calling him. This lures him to follow you. Once your dog reliably moves toward you when you call them, add in the word come. Reward them and repeat the exercise using different distances and the word come now. Increase the distance you are away when you call him inside the house. If your German Shepherd performs the command reliably, add in farther distances. Reward them when they respond correctly. Practice many times with the word come while you are in the same room. Now, call him from farther and farther away in different rooms. Use distractions in the home while practicing. Call him while other people are in the room. Next, use both different rooms and a variety of distractions together. But only if he ignores multiple distractions. If he responds correctly during multiple training sessions, leash him with the long leash mentioned earlier as an essential tool and train him outside to work on concentrating with outdoor distractions. Repeat the process you used indoors practicing with varying distances and distractions outside. Use this guide for a fast recall and to save yourself some stress on this command. They familiarize your dog with the many ways in which they might get asked to perform their commands. These extra steps are invaluable to the quality of your German Shepherd obedience home training program. See how long you can have your dog stay while you move into different practice areas and work on increasing the time. Try to keep his attention on you during his training despite other distractions in your room, inside your house, or outdoors. If your GSD seems to have forgotten their command, take them back to the last place they were successful and begin training from there. Not all of your days are perfect, right? Adjust your training as needed. Instead, make sure you have a well-rounded training program apart from this German Shepherd training guide : Through exciting mental stimulation and boredom-busting activities. By regularly brushing their coats to give them healthy skin and decrease shedding. Offering them the right chew toys that are safe , non-toxic, and withstand heavy chewing while being fun. Use brief training sessions and practice frequently. End training with a command you know your pup will perform and reward them at the end. Keep up your training daily for quicker learning. And… Always look for ways to bond with your German Shepherd through everyday training opportunities. If you want to achieve the quickest results for training your GSD then use games and have fun with your dog! You can easily learn breakthrough techniques to help you feel confident training your German Shepherd at home by enrolling in this scientifically-based brain training program that guides you through advanced tricks and obedience. Great work! Visit ShepherdSense. Then, share it! Catherine Krasavin, BS Hons. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Calm older dogs are good for this one. Most importantly for German Shepherd puppies, it will give you a chance to work with them around other people, and different dogs from a young age. Settle on a mat German Shepherds are incredibly curious, which can make it difficult for them to relax while out and about. Leash walking — no one wants a large breed of dog pulling them down the street, so be sure you teach loose lead walking and how about some heelwork too? Recall games — Play a game of tennis with your pooch! Calling them from person to person with treats on either side. Get started with grooming and brushing sensitive areas — In long-haired German Shepherds, this is typically the case with the face, legs, and ears, which become tangled the most and may hurt when brushed. Remember to brush carefully, do a little bit of brushing on a sensitive area while feeding them treats or letting them have a lickimat, and then brush an easier to brush area. For socialisation, start working on items that are vital to your lifestyle this week, such as if you have a horse and want your puppy to be comfortable with horses, or if you enjoy sailing, having them near water will be important to you. Getting your puppy exposed to new experiences early on can help them accept them much more easily. Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Go to the pub — you deserve it! Remember that settle training you did before, take your mat and get your German Shepherd puppy to settle on it with a nice stuffed kong. Alone training: increasing time alone is important for your puppy. It gives them essential coping skills. Recall — Practise this outside, using a lead, and lots of rewards. Lead walking — Take this outside. Make sure you keep a strong pace going, since German Shepherds enjoy walking quickly, and praise often to keep your puppy interested. Pretend Nail Clips — simply holding a claw, pretending to clip , and rewarding your puppy with a treat is enough. Following on walks — Bring special toys, like the Tug-E-Nuff Pocket tugger, with you on walks to ensure your German Shepherd puppy enjoys hanging out with you. Playing with them will make you irresistible! Week 7 — Training your German Shepherd puppy The 7-week itch! Nah not really. I bet your German Shepherd puppy is doing wonderfully and growing rapidly! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — How about taking your German Shepherd to a city farm, letting them watch from afar and rewarding them for being such a calm puppy? Teach your German Shepherd puppy to stay — this will be a great one to show off at the park, trust us. So, first, take a walk with a dog that your German Shepherd puppy has already met. At first, it may be difficult for your puppy not to get distracted, so keep the rewards coming and try to keep them interested in you, rather than the other dog! Recall — off the lead Make sure you do this in a secure and confined area and bring plenty of smelly treats, a fun toy to play with, and your silly high-pitched voice so you can call your German Shepherd puppy back regularly. Remember, German Shepherds enjoy learning! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — maybe take your German Shepherd for a swimming lesson? Practice exercises in different locations — how about a train station, or in a shopping centre or mall? Teach a hand target — This is a favourite among pups and their owners. Hand Targeting or touching is the foundation for additional trick behaviours like leg weaving and closing doors. Introducing nose work to your puppy — We mean it when we say your German Shepherd puppy has a better nose than you! Play a game of hide and seek with their favourite toy to bring out those excellent search skills. Looking for more great puppy training tips? Check out our overview of when to start teaching your puppy anything , next. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. November 8, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? The German Shepherd Dog, one of the top ten popular breeds in the United States, is known for their regal appearance, bravery, intelligence, and noble character. They are hard-working dogs that fit into a variety of service jobs, but can also be amazing family dogs, making them an all-around great breed for dog lovers! How do you know if the German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for you and your family? German Shepherd Dogs are a younger breed that started in Germany in by Captain Max Von Stephanitz who sought to create an unmatched herding dog. But as Germany became more and more industrialized, the breed shifted from herding work to police and military training. Hundreds of these dogs made their way to the United States during WWI, one such being a small five-day-old puppy that was rescued from a destroyed kennel in France and brought home to the states to Los Angeles. This puppy later grew up to be one of the most famous four-legged movie stars, Rin Tin Tin, starring in 26 movies, forever making the German Shepherd Dog breed a popular choice in the nation! If you are looking for an attractive dog, look no further! German Shepherd Dogs have beautiful coats, strong muscular builds, a square muzzle, long bushy tail, and a black mask. Some colors like red and black, or tan and black, have distinct markings such as saddle or blanket on their back. However, German Shepherd Dogs come in a variety of colors: sable, silver, liver, panda, solid black, and solid white. What are German Shepherd Dog Personalities like? German Shepherd Dogs can be reserved, often appearing aloof toward new people, but this very loyal breed loves their families and can be very affectionate. While they can be wary of new people and protective of their family, with the right socialization, German Shepherd Dogs can be friendly and easy-going. They are an intelligent and high-energy breed that thrives with a job to do. Due to this, without the proper or consistent amount of stimulating work, they can easily become bored and frustrated. Those feelings could translate into behaviors like barking, howling, or chewing. As they get older, they'll equally enjoy relaxing with you at home and getting up with you to do the next fun activity! If you are a lover of going for long walks or runs, enjoy hiking on the weekends, or trips to the beach depending on where you live, a German Shepherd Dog will gladly trot alongside you! German Shepherd Dogs while they can be independent, do crave to be with their family and offer great companionship. With crate training, your German Shepherd puppy will learn to adapt to being left alone for periods of time without developing separation anxiety, however, this breed thrives with interaction and will do best a puppy parent that can provide them with a balanced amount of alone and accompanied time throughout the day. Like many large breed dogs, German Shepherd Dogs can suffer from some common illnesses including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, degenerative spinal stenosis, and Von Willebrand disease. Thankfully, responsible breeders today have bred out many of these and improved the health of the breed significantly! When you bring home your new German Shepherd puppy, schedule their first veterinarian visit to discuss appropriate health care, proper nutrition and supplements, and exercise. German Shepherd Dogs tend to shed regularly and heavily twice in the year during the Spring and Fall season. With soft undercoats and harsher topcoats, they would do best with regular brushing once a week will help remove their dead fur and maintain healthy skin! Note: When looking for a reputable German Shepherd Dog breeder, go through an accredited website such as AKC for their breeder locator. Additionally, many pure-breed and mixed German Shepherds are available in rescues and shelters for adoption! German Shepherds are smart and hard-working, so puppy training will not only provide them with the stimulation they crave but also solidify your communication, trust, and overall relationship! Early puppy training Lay the foundation for good behavior the day your puppy comes home, introducing them to basic obedience. Keeping your puppy on a leash at home while under supervision will help to build their focus on you as their leader and also help keep them from darting away. Soon, build up to more obedience training commands, work on their focus through distractions, and start to introduce training in different locations such as your yard, or neighborhood to solidify their communication with you in any situation. Also, check out the rest of our Puppy Training and Puppyhood Made Easy for New Owners series to guide you through what to train your puppy next, how to troubleshoot, and other important topics every puppy owner should know! Going back to their wilder instincts, puppies will naturally avoid soiling where they sleep. Crate training your German Shepherd Dog puppy will help boost their confidence and resilience while learning to be alone at home. Socialization is a must German Shepherd Dogs are natural protectors and benefit greatly from being socialized with other dogs, people, new places, textures, and sounds. When done correctly, s ocialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on barking or jumping, which are common puppy behaviors when they are excited or over-stimulated when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer to help set you up for the best success! Consider advanced training to keep them engaged German Shepherd Dogs are very intelligent and have high-prey drives which mean they love to work! Along with basic obedience, dog sports like agility are a great way to motivate them and help your puppy work out their energy. Agility helps establish a stronger communication bond through body language while your puppy is participating. Developed as part of K9 and military dog training, this is a perfect activity for your German Shepherd to burn off some mental and physical steam! Did you recently bring home a German Shepherd Dog puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! Reliable training German Shepherd puppy training: socialization! The first item in your German Shepherd puppy training list is Socialization. It means that you must provide your baby German Shepherd with interesting and positive interactions. If you ensure that your pup interacts, and has a positive and rewarding experience, with as many people, dogs, animals, sounds, objects, sights and experiences, you will raise a confident and reliable dog. Every new activity or interaction must be followed with a yummy treat! This will ensure your puppy will have a positive association with every new experience, object, person, animal, etc. You can use your dog's kibble or something better like chicken, beef or cheese. Commercial treats are also a good and easy to use option, but make sure you buy healthy, all natural dog treats to keep your German shepherd puppy healthy and strong! German Shepherd dogs are loyal and may have a tendency to be apprehensive with strangers. Socialization will ensure that your puppy grows a strong bond with you without developing a problematic over-protectiveness. German Shepherd puppy training socialization tips: Never separate a puppy from his mother and littermates before the age of weeks. During this time, mom teaches her puppies some important rules of the dog world like body language communication and they start to learn bite inhibition by plying with the other puppies. Unfortunately many vets will tell you not to take your puppy out of the house until they have had all of their shots. This is old school thinking and can have extremely bad consequences that will become apparent only when your canine becomes an adult. Without the full set of shots, your puppy is vulnerable to infectious diseases, however taking your pup to early socialization classes where all other dogs have also been immunized reduces the risk for becoming sick AND will make your German Shepherd a confident, well adjusted and friendlier dog. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior promotes early socialization , even before the full set of vaccines are given to the pup. Take socialization in your own hands. Spend the first 4 weeks holding parties at your home! Yes, parties! Invite all your friends and family for Karaoke, sports watching, boardgames, etc. Ask them to bring their kids too! And always make sure socialization is about positive interactions. If any of the kids or adults make your puppy a little scared, simply remove the threat and let the puppy explore other things. Back to top of German shepherd puppy training article. German Shepherd puppy training: stop the biting! Socialization is hard work, bite-inhibition is even harder! But it is one of the best things you can ever teach your pup. Dogs have really strong jaws and can learn to apply just the right amount of pressure with it. Adult dogs that have had this kind of training can get into fights and defend themselves without drawing blood. This is so important to avoid any type of dog-human or dog-dog bite accidents. German Shepherd puppy dogs have sharp teeth for a reason: to learn how to use their mouth properly. Teach your puppy to bite without hurting! To teach your pooch not to hurt human skin you will need to yelp like a puppy every time you feel teeth in contact with your skin. Engage in puppy play and Yelp Yes! Loud, sharp, high pitched and clear when you feel teeth. Your pup will most likely stop in surprise. As soon as he has stopped, wait seconds and resume play. Repeat as many times as needed. Start with those bites that really hurt or scratch. If you yelp every time you feel teeth, your puppy will think it is how you play. It may take a few weeks for you to notice that your pup is not hurting as much.Progressively teach your pup to play without hurting you. This make take a couple of months! Do not let your puppy play with your clothes, shoes, face or hair. If your puppy bites any of these, the game is over. Wait for him to calm down and start playing again. If you are tired of playing and getting bitten, grab a tug-toy or a ball and play those games instead. After a while, settle your puppy with a stuffed Kong toy on his bed or crate. Never punish your puppy for play-biting, this can lead to aggression or your puppy fearing "hands" near his face. Even though German shepherd puppy dogs are really smart, bite-inhibition requires a lot of repetition and consistency. Most of the time you will feel he is not learning anything at all, keep at it. You can add second time outs on top of yelping if needed. It is definitely worth your time. If bite-inhibition is slow, this article has more tips to help you! Another aspect of training your German shepherd puppy bite inhibition are toys! Your pup needs to learn to bite only his toys, not furniture, not the walls, not your shoes. For this reason you need to load your house with puppy toys and TEACH your puppy how to play with them. The best dog toys are interactive, this means that you can put food inside the toy and your puppy has to think how to get it out. This toys are the best because they add enrichment to your dog's life. Interactive dog toy recommendations: Feed EVERY meal inside an interactive dog toy Use interactive toys with your German shepherd when he is left alone in the house. Make sure he has plenty of toys interactive and others so he won't get bored when you leave. Use interactive toys when you need some quiet time because you need to work, or you have guests. Kong dog toy's are the best , you can fill them with something soft like cheese or peanut butter and let your puppy lick it for a while. Even better.Below you will see some of my favorite interactive dog toys durable and fun! German Shepherd puppy training: potty outside! Another important item on your German shepherd puppy training list is House training. It can be a bit stressful, but if done correctly, you can accomplish it very quickly. Just keep in mind that depending on your puppy in can take anywhere from 1 week to several months to complete potty training. The following info-graphic has some simple rules to follow and make german shepher potty training easy and effective: Take your puppy out for a potty break every hours. Take your puppy out for a potty the break after every meal. Take your puppy out for a potty break after a nap. Take your puppy out for a potty break after a play session. The main idea when potty training a German shepherd puppy, is to take him out or to the correct place as often as he needs to and reward him after he is done. The infographic above gives you an idea of how often a puppy needs to go out. However, you need to know your own puppy. This way you will know how often he is relieving himself. You may also notice if he does it after every meal or nap. Reward with a treat after he is done! Repeat steps 2 and 3, you should start noticing that after a couple of days or weeks your puppy chooses the correct place more often than other places. NEVER punish your dog for accidents, this can stress him and even make him do his business hidden from you which will make potty training very hard because you won't be able to reward him. You can crate train your German shepherd puppy so he learns to have quiet times in between active times. Crate training also prevents your puppy from having accidents. For more information and a puppy crate-training schedule check this article! German shepherd potty training aids The are several commercial items available to help you potty train your German shepherd dog. Regular cleaning products may take away the urine scent -you- smell but they will not remove the scent your dog smells. Enzymatic cleaners do that, they break down urine molecules to make them easy to remove. This will prevent your pet from returning to the same, incorrect, spot. Puppy pads are very popular because they are less messy than news paper. However, if you put a puppy pad and leave you puppy alone with it, you will find it in shreds! You must teach your puppy to use the puppy pads, not to chew on them. To do this, put the puppy pad on the floor and interrupt your puppy if he tries to play with it. Exchange for another toy and reward with treats for not grabbing the pad with his mouth he can however, stand or sit on it. Repeat until he learns this! If you have a backyard, a doggy-door is an excellent way to give your pup access to the outdoors without your help. You must teach him how to use it! Use a treat to lure him through the door many times until he can do it on his own! Then, every-time you take him outside, make him go though the door on his own. You can also teach your puppy to let you know when he needs to go outside! Use a doggy doorbells for this purpose. You must teach your dog how to use them! First, teach your dog to touch the bells. Then, ask your dog to touch the bells every time before you open the door to let him go outside. Finally, be alert for when he does it on his own! I do not recommend any "Not Here" or "Yes Here" type sprays. They don't work very well, specially without any training.German Shepherd puppy training: basic commands! Some dog trainers won't start until the dog is 6 months old, at which time he is past the socialization and bite inhibition period and he is probably doing all sorts of naughty things. You can start training your German shepherd puppy from the first day you bring him home. From weeks you can start teaching your canine many commands, however I strongly advice you keep your focus on socialization, bite-inhibition and potty training. If you have time to train basic commands…. Your pooch will love it! Step-by-step obedience training tutorials for your German shepherd German Shepherd puppy training "SIT": You will use this command all the time. Ask your pup to sit when a stranger wants to pet him, for attention, for the ball to be thrown, etc. To start use food to lure your pooch into the sit position. Only give him the treat once his bottom is on the ground. Repeat many times! Follow this link for detail instructions.This is useful at the vet as well as to mix and match commands. From a sit or down position lure your baby german shepherd into a stand. This link will take you to the step by step guide.Start your pooch from a sitting position and lure him into a down. Only give your dog a treat after he is completely down on the ground. Click here for a step-by-step tutorial.Why train your pooch sit, down and stand? You need three commands to mix up when you ask your dog to do something. If you have at least three options, then your smart German Shepherd won't be able to predict what you will ask. Practice Puppy Push-Ups! Sit-down-stand, Down-sit-stand, and ask you German Shepherd puppy to do one, two, or more commands to earn treats, toys and attention! Other useful cues include: Speak and Quiet , settle and ask for permission before rushing into something potentially dangerous. You can see a full list of commands on this link. Enjoy German Shepherd puppy training time and leave us your questions and comments in the box below. To train a German Shepherd puppy dog you must be consistent, kind and clear. German Shepherd dog puppies are divinely cute and for a reason! Just like babies are cute, puppies will win your heart even after destroying your favorite pair of shoes or that expensive carpet! Making sure you use them will start you on the right side of training and pave the road for you to get an obedient dog. The good news is that you do not need any special equipment to have an obedient GSD puppy. All you need is love and treats. The most important German Shepherd puppy training tip is socialization. Some vets will tell you to keep the pooch inside until the full set of vaccines is completed. Unfortunately, if you do keep your pooch safe inside until he is months of age, his socialization period will have closed forever and your chance to raise a friendly and confident dog drops significantly! That said, it is ultimately your decision whether you want to take the risk to take him outside or not. Most large US cities do not have too many disease problems and taking your puppy to a class where the trainer checks that every puppy has had the first set of shots is mostly safe. However, if you leave in a rural area, make sure there is not an outbreak of a disease that can affect your pooch. Of all the German Shepherd puppy training tips, I suggest you really think this one through. As a dog trainer, I recommend you find a safe puppy socialization class because this developmental period is critical to prevent behavior problems in the future. Apart from that, you also need to socialize your puppy daily on your own, this link will explain the process and give you a list of things to check as you go! Tip 2: Teach your German Shepherd puppy to use his mouth properly. You may have noticed that your German Shepherd puppy likes to chew on your shoes, toys, boxes, carpets, pillows, your hands…well, pretty much everything! Before you loose your mind and all your precious possessions let me tell you that this is normal puppy behavior. At this age dogs explore everything with their mouths and even though annoying, it is a great time to teach your pet what is appropriate for his mouth as well as how to soften the bite. The reason German Shepherd dog puppies have sharp teeth is because they are capable of learning how much or how little pressure to apply when biting different things. This is good news! To train a German Shepherd puppy to do this follow this link! Tip 3: Potty train your German Shepherd puppy the right way. Right around now you are also probably dealing with potty training, the best German Shepherd puppy training tips for potty training are outlined below. You should know how many times, and when to take you puppy out. I am sure you have heard all sorts of things against the use of food for training. To do this, you need to find the things that your dog likes most and use them as rewards. Food will be one of them, so use it. But also use anything else, like walks, petting, play time, toys, etc. So, of all the German shepherd puppy training tips here, I don't want to hear any excuses for this one! Done the right way, your pooch will respond to your command even when empty handed. Hope my website is helping you better understand and train your dog. Do you want to help? Be a modern philanthropist through Patreon. This is a hard concept to understand for us, clever human beings. When we learn something new, we can very easily generalize the concept to any situation, that is what makes us creative creatures. Fortunately, you have a German Shepherd puppy, they are clever and chances are they will need less repetitions than the average breed. To help you out on this matter, this link will take you to a step-by-step guide to train a reliable command. Tip 6: Train your German Shepherd puppy to ask for permission. Dog commands and fun and useful and you can probably find hundreds to teach your GSD. This one though - Ask for permission - is technically not a command, because you will not ask your canine to do it every time, instead you want to teach him to do it on his own every time the occasion requires it. Take time to do this with your puppy, it will be worth it! This is another one of the most important German Shepherd puppy training tips because a dog that asks for permission is an obedient and safe dog. To prevent a dog from jumping on people it is imperative to teach that same dog not to jump when he is a puppy. If he jumps again, then ignore again. When I say ignore, I mean it! No eye contact, no pushing or kneeing…nothing. Keep turning around if you have to. Pulling on the leash is another of those dog behaviors that people think come out of the blue, but actually they happen because there was never formal training done. To prevent pulling on the leash all you have to do is make sure your puppy understands that he gets rewarded food, petting, attention, verbal praise, keep on walking, etc. Pay close attention to what he does during those first few walks together and make sure you reward him for staying close to you! Got any German Shepherd puppy training tips to share with us? Tell us about them here! Those ideas came from research done in wolfs in captivity and have now been debunked by new research done in wolfs in the wild. The new research says that you need to be a good leader, kind of like a parent. Alphas are most often the parents of the group. Provide shelter, food, safety and limits. This article tells you more about it! Tip The best German Shepherd puppy training tip is… Reward good behavior and ignore bad behavior. This rule is amazing and will work wonders, besides it is really easy to apply, all you have to do is pay attention to your German Shepherd puppy and reward the good things he does. You need to figure out what the reward is and remove it. For example, when a dog is laying down, it is harder to bark. This Form cannot be submitted until the missing fields labelled below in red have been filled in What is your DOG's name? Please note that all fields followed by an asterisk must be filled in. Check Price on Amazon 1. If the puppy is running towards you, for example, you can begin clapping. For now, notice the following and set distinct anchors for each. For the time being, you should avoid anchors that are excessively similar to one another. My German Shepherd Willow — 8 weeks old 2. As you train your pup to understand and respond to more complex commands, this helps eliminate a lot of the resistance. As a result, the initial step should be to persuade your German Shepherd to stick close to you. We all know that dogs are descended from wolves, and wolves follow the pack leader, which means you! Needless to say, when training a 2-month-old German Shepherd puppy, you have to incentivize him to follow you. You need to build a positive reinforcement loop and let your German Shepherd establish an association between following you and receiving a pleasant experience. You can start taking unexpected turns and training your puppy to follow you despite the direction changes after your puppy has become motivated to follow you for the reward. At a young age, you should take your puppy out and about and allow him to utilize his sociability potential. One method is to pay visits to friends and family. You might also look for a dog park and take him there. Keep in mind that your pet is still learning to walk with you and follow directions. Make sure your pup has a positive experience outdoors. It is worth noting that you should socialize and introduce him to new experiences as often as you can, preferably daily. Start Potty Training You should start potty training your German Shepherd puppy the first day you bring him home. Start by showing your pup where you want him to potty, such as a sectioned-off area of your yard or garden. I cordoned off a small area and added some bark chippings. Even now, my GSD will not go on the sidewalk or hard surfaces! It has to be grass or somewhere soft. Next, you need a potty training schedule. Always take your puppy out first thing in the morning, after mealtimes and play, hourly, and before retiring to bed. Deter Biting If you read my blog regularly, you know that I am opposed to punishment-based training. In any case, using physical force or yelling at your pup will only instill fear and distrust and can actually cause aggression. If someone recommends such negative approaches, you should approach a qualified trainer and learn how to train a German Shepherd puppy not to bite. Instead, you can wait until your GSD bites during a positive activity before stopping it. This will help to anchor the result better. For example, if your German Shepherd puppy fiercely takes a treat from your hand, you can withhold the second treat until he learns to take it gently. You should act upset and convey that what he has done has hurt you. Use positive reinforcement to encourage proper behavior by rewarding with a treat. Your German Shepherd will quickly learn that good behavior is rewarded with good things. Puppies must continue to learn bite inhibition soft-mouth by continuing the work their mother taught them and what they learned from their littermates. Learn Bite Inhibition Training! Instill Patience You have to use your best judgment and patience when training your dog. In general, by the tenth week, your German Shepherd will be mature enough to understand self-control. Teach the Heel Position While your 3-month-old German Shepherd puppy will initially follow you, adjusting your pace will soon have him walking alongside you in the heel position, on your left side, without a leash, harness, or fear of punishment. To train your puppy to assume the natural heel position, use a clicker, whistle, or use your voice as a marker. Chances are, at first, your German Shepherd will also try to change his pace to walk behind you because of habit. You can avoid this problem by walking where your dog is used to. Assume Positions on Command — Sit, Down, Stand Your 3-months old German Shepherd puppy is now old enough to learn how to sit, stand, or hold a down position. You can teach him these new skills and assume a heel stance, which you have previously taught him. So by the time he is four months old, you can use the position cues and positive reinforcement to get your dog to follow. These included a clicker, whistle, clap, or saying a specific word to show your German Shepherd is doing a good job, generally followed by a well-deserved treat. Now is the time to see whether the anchors work! You used to whistle when your GSD approached you; now, you must whistle for him to start his run. This is the foundation of his recall training. While this allows the puppy to be more social when visitors arrive, an adult dog must learn to walk outside without behaving badly. Whether it is a cuddle, a pat, attention, or something tasty, you must teach your pup target training, for example, teaching him to touch a target with a specific part of his body, such as his paw or nose. Remember that your German Shepherd may end up biting or clawing to communicate if you do not teach him more acceptable communication methods. I recommend teaching your German Shepherd to use his nose to touch your hand. This is a fantastic bite substitute! Hand targeting is a fun way to train your dog to trust you while also getting him to use his brain! Begin by asking him to sit for a few seconds and gradually extend the time. Train Your Dog to Fetch If you have taken your German Shepherd to public parks and he has watched other dogs play fetch, it will be easier to teach him to retrieve whatever you throw. Your GSD may not bring the toy back to you for a second time, but he will eventually figure it out. Over the next few weeks, you can gradually turn it into a game of fetch, rewarding your puppy with high-value training treats. Continue Potty Training In the fourth month of German Shepherd training, you will continue toilet training to a degree of independence. Maintain a regular schedule and match your walks with his natural cycle to coincide with when he needs to go. Teach Your German Shepherd to Walk on the Leash Learning to walk on a leash outside is an important element of dog training. Use it to control your German Shepherd and then test his ability to follow commands off-leash. Many dog owners will opt for a rear attached harness. How to Train a 5 Month Old German Shepherd Puppy You have adequately socialized and trained your dog to recognize and associate attention, toys, walks, and food as rewards. Your five-month-old German Shepherd puppy is now ready to be put to the test for general obedience and the capacity to deal with distractions. These could be other dogs, strangers, or animals like squirrels or birds. But, if you introduce distractions gradually, your five-month-old puppy can deal with them. You must be ready for your dog to run ahead of you now! Assume, however, that you have built a strong bond with your puppy and worked on his training. In that case, he will stay close to you and prove his loyalty by sticking by your side. The good news is that all of your past training will make it easier for your dog to obey your instructions. Conclude Potty Training Your German Shepherd has had months to learn how to tell you his need to go potty. He has also likely refined how to hold his bladder instead of peeing on the floor. As a result, if your dog makes a mess, you can express your displeasure through your body language. But, all dogs can still have the odd accident up to one year old. Besides, you must be prepared for your dog to relieve himself indoors if he is excited or frightened. This is known as either excitement or submissive urination. During this time, energy levels increase , especially in larger breed dogs. While the average exercise for a pup before this is generally five minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day, a six-month-old German Shepherd can exercise for one hour if you split his walks into two thirty-minute sessions. To train your 6-month-old German Shepherd puppy, start with two commands that will be most useful. As previously stated, you will be exercising your German Shepherd much more frequently from now on. You can teach these commands or tricks in any order from six months onwards until your German Shepherd is a well-trained adult. This is an excellent skill to teach your GSD and is one of the commands taught to police and protection dogs. This is a difficult task, but your German Shepherd will eventually master it if you practice and keep consistent. The eighth month is the time for training your German Shepherd to go to different places upon hearing your command word. This could be for practical reasons or to maximize the intellect of your dog. Alternatively, you might spend the ninth month teaching him a fun party trick! Teach Your German Shepherd to Spin By dangling a tasty treat in front of your German Shepherd and moving it in a circle until he starts to spin, you prime him for a command anchor. After a week or so, you teach your German Shepherd to follow your finger without first using a treat. Of course, you will still need to reward him after he obeys the command. By the third week, you should be able to ask your dog to spin without using your finger to guide him. It might take an extra couple of weeks, but I recommend this as an addition in the ninth month because it allows you to continue training your dog to learn previous commands better. You can train him to go to different places, hold or release objects, and fetch toys. You can now develop this further and teach him to roll over on command. Your one-year-old German Shepherd continues to learn at the same rate as he has since he was six months old. What will change is that your dog will interact with other people more frequently. You can train him to do additional tricks to give him a more appealing presence. This will deter him from merely barking for attention. You should also review previously taught commands and see any weak associations you can reinforce. If anything, this is the period where you tailor his training to your convenience. But now is the time when your German Shepherd must learn to be harmonious with your life. From the month mark onwards, you must train your doggo to be compatible with modern adult life within reason. Do not be alarmed if you have an month-old German Shepherd who appears to have had no previous training! Start by establishing authority by having a positive yet commanding presence. Once your new friend recognizes your authority and sees you as his leader, treat him as a six-month-old, albeit on an accelerated schedule, and train him accordingly. You should train your German Shepherd puppy for short and frequent sessions, ideally minutes, several times a day. As your puppy grows and matures, you can gradually increase the duration and complexity of the training sessions. What are the most important commands to teach my German Shepherd puppy? Come command helps to call your puppy back to you in case of an emergency or when you want to end a play session. Heel command teaches your puppy to walk calmly beside you on a leash, and Leave It command helps to prevent your puppy from eating something harmful or dangerous. German Shepherds are a highly trainable and intelligent breed. Your job as a trainer becomes even easier once you have a workable training schedule in place and stick to your routine. My month-by-month German Shepherd puppy training schedule will help you successfully train your doggo and make him into the cherished companion you always desired. Good luck with your training! Related Posts You May Like:.

Exercise, Growth, and Joints Exercise Labradors not only love exercise, they need exercise. We all look forward to taking our puppy for a walk, however it is important not to over-exercise your puppy. In natural play, puppies will romp until they are tired and then stop to lay down for rest. When walking a puppy on a leash, they cannot stop when they normally would for rest. Too much exercise or walking can severely damage their bone and joint structures irreversibly. This should be taken seriously. THE RULE is: No more than 5 minutes of exercise for every month of age So that means, at 2 months old 8 weeks , your puppy only needs to exercise or walk for 10 minutes per day. At 3 months of age 15 minutes of exercise and so on. If you walk your puppy too far too soon, your puppy may develop hip and elbow dysplasia as they get older. Labradors have been known to develop dysplasia younger than other breeds of dogs. In many of these cases, it is often due to environmental factors such as over-exercise, running on hard or strenuous surfaces such as concrete or sand , continual jumping or agility work. Things to avoid with your puppy: No jumping in or out of car, especially larger cars. Lift the dog or use a ramp. No throwing balls or frisbee great distances for your puppy to chase. The sudden stopping and over reaching with the front legs is dangerous. No agility, jumping or flyball before years old Do not let other dogs knock or push the puppy over continually, includes body-slamming Avoid much stair climbing which can increase the risk of dysplasia No fast turns or roll-overs Good exercise: Swimming is great, since there is no weight-bearing impact on their joints. Remember, labradors love water! Walking on leash, for no longer than the recommended length of time for their age Self-directed play is an overriding rule for any puppy under 18 months old. The majority of exercise should be free play, exploring, and noodling around Hide and seek games are fantastic, as the dog can move at its own pace looking for its toy or treat or you. Size is a factor as large dogs, especially ones that like to play with paw whacks, can inadvertently injury a young puppy. Supervised play is critical. You need to teach the puppy a release command. All these games are forms of exercise for puppies and are a great way to help your puppy learn useful lifelong skills and qualities. Growth plates and bones: Development and injury Growth Plates Growth plates are soft areas that sit at the ends of the long bones in puppies and young dogs. They contain rapidly dividing cells that allow bones to grow longer until the end of puberty. Growth plates gradually thin as the hormonal changes approaching puberty signal the growth plates to close. In puppies, this closure normally completes between 18 to 24 months old in labradors. After sexual maturity, the growth plates calcify and the rapid cell division ends. The growth plates become a stable, inactive part of the bone, now known as an epiphyseal line. Dogs bones are held together with muscles, tendons and ligaments soft tissue. In an adult dog, if a joint experiences a stress such as bending the wrong way or rotating too much, the bones will hold firm and soft tissue will be pulled, resulting in a sprain or tear. Why this matters so much, is that unlike a sprain, injuries to the growth plate may not heal properly or not heal in time for the puppy to grow up straight and strong. Injury to a growth plate can result in a misshapen or shortened limb, which creates an incorrect angle to a joint resulting in yet more future injuries when he grows up, including dysplasia. These xray images show open and closed growth plates in a puppy and adult dog. Bone Strength In addition to having soft growth plates at the end of long bones, puppies bones in general are softer. Spiral fractures of the tibia lower leg bone are very common in puppies. A spiral fracture is where the bottom half of the bone twists in the opposite direction of the top half. Any exercise that puts torque twist on a bone puts the puppy at risk of a fracture. For an example, movements such as twisting and turning suddenly can cause these type of fractures. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia This is where we recommend you read our Health and Genetic Testing page, where we talk about hip and elbow dysplasia. It is critical that you, as a puppy owner, understand as much as you can about hip and elbow dysplasia, how you can help prevent it, and what your breeder should be testing for. On the other hand, an underfed or malnourished puppy or dog is also at higher risk of injury. Muscles mass directly influences strength, likewise inadequate calcium and nutrients affect bone density. A body condition score of about is healthy for a young puppy. Once an adult, the ideal body condition score would be about 5 for a healthy, fit labrador. Sterilisation Desexing In larger breeds, sterilising young puppies at a young age has shown to increase the risk of joint disorders and injury. We recommend sterilisation occurs between 24 months old for this reason. This recommendation is outlined in our Health Guarantee. We discuss this more under Desexing or Sterilisation. Post header Skip post header How much exercise does a Labrador need? Labradors are amongst the most popular family pets in the UK thanks to their loyalty, gentle nature, and intelligence. Like most dogs, they thrive with regular exercise, keeping them healthy and happy. How much exercise does an adult Labrador need? A healthy adult Labrador generally needs at least 80 minutes of high-quality exercise per day. Of course, when setting exercise goals for dogs with existing health issues including obesity , you should consult your vet first. What types of exercise are best for Labradors? When we say high quality, we mean just that. Try and incorporate off-lead time into their exercise routine and take a ball or toy to play fetch with — running will help to raise their heart rate and burn off more calories. How much exercise does a Labrador puppy need? For their first three months, your puppy will get enough exercise from tearing around the house, playing and causing chaos. How much exercise does an old Labrador need? At an advanced age, your dog will have less energy in general and be more likely to suffer from health issues that may limit their mobility. Be observant — being the loyal companions they are, Labradors will push through a lot of pain to keep up with you. Watch for excessive panting, changes in their movement, and exhaustion as signals that they have overstretched themselves and adjust their activity accordingly. Can you over-exercise a Labrador? Labradors have the capacity to build up incredible fitness that will see them on the go all day long, but for most, there is a limit on how much they can do. Gradually increase their activity levels, using a PitPat to check in on their progress. How far can a Labrador walk? A working Labrador could be expected to cover many miles every day through the undergrowth and even water. However, your pet Labrador will have slightly different stamina, depending on how much exercise they are used to. Getting out and about with your Labrador keeps them happy and healthy and can be a highly rewarding experience for you both. Download our app for free to see if PitPat is for you. You might also like Single page Single page Top 10 most active dog breeds Got energy to burn? Single page Single page 10 ways to exercise your dog indoors Whether you find yourself stuck indoors because of the weather or for any other reason, your dog still needs plenty of exercise. Here are our top tips for exercising your dog indoors. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Whether young or old, big or small, yellow, black, chocolate, from field lines or show lines, your Labrador needs exercise. It will keep their heart and muscles strong, their mind stimulated and their weight under control. But how much exercise does a Labrador need? Labradors Are a High Energy Breed The Labrador Retriever is a high energy working breed, initially bred for very physically demanding work retrieving game for hunters. This would involve all day hiking, running and swimming in sometimes difficult conditions. So Labrador Retrievers were bred to have lots of energy and be very active. And though their main role in life today is as a family pet, they still have those same genetics that made them suited to their original role. Dog Ball Thrower. Yes, you can throw a tennis ball extra far with the Chuckit, but two reasons why I love it: 1. In this state they will often resort to destructive behaviors such as digging and chewing…and will often be very restless, may bark excessively and try to escape your home and garden at every opportunity. Insufficient exercise can also lead to weight problems with Labradors. Excess weight is a problem because it can lead to all sorts of problems such as damage to their joints hips and elbows , heart disease, increased blood pressure and increases the risk of diabetes. So a lack of exercise leads to behavioral problems, hyperactivity and possibly an assortment of health problems. However, as a general rule of thumb, a normally healthy adult Labrador Retriever will need 1 hour of exercise every day. The more relaxed Labs just 45 minutes per day, the more energetic 1. This can be made up of running, swimming, playing fetch , jogging alongside you…anything that goes beyond a gentle walk. But if the first consideration is your Labradors age, how much do puppies and the elderly need? Nice for long runs with your Lab. If you have older dogs or children, the puppy may well try to keep up with them and over-exert themselves, playing to exhaustion and damage their developing joints. So keep an eye on them and interrupt play if need be, to give them plenty of rest. Once they are fully grown, they can go out for much longer. The 5 minute rule should be sufficient to keep your lab puppy fit, burn off excess energy yet not over-exert them and cause possible developmental issues. Continue the 5 minute rule until your puppy is at least one year of age where you can then begin to exercise them more vigorously. This is highly dependent on your labs overall health and can vary wildly from one Labrador to another. Some labs may need to slow down from the 7th year onwards, while others remain extremely active beyond their 10th year. As Labradors get older, many develop arthritis, dysplasia and other health issues that can prevent a Labrador from enjoying or needing exercise as much as they used to when young and healthy. They will likely still try to chase a tennis ball all day and hike mountains just to please you, even if it may be doing them more harm than good. Try not to put them in this position. As your Labrador ages, you need to be more observant , looking for changes in their movement, excessive panting, slowing down, feeling tired. And during grooming sessions and massage, check for any painful spots indicative of sore joints or other problems. We noticed Linus was stiff getting up in the morning and decided to try adding glucosamine to his diet. We saw a noticeable difference a few days later and an added spring in his step. If your Labrador tears around your home like a tornado. If your Lab displays any of the restless and destructive symptoms described above, try increasing their levels of exercise for a few days and see if their behavior problems improve. However, if you have money burning a hole in your pocket you might want to check out PetSafe Automatic Ball Launcher. Over-exercising very young and elderly Labradors can do more harm than good. For your adolescent and adult Labrador, exercise them well. As a general rule of thumb, aim for 1hr per day and scale this up or down depending on your Labradors individual needs. This could mean 45 mins for the more sedate and elderly, or 1. And at the end of the day, think of it like this: You have the best exercise machine to rival that of any gym to keep you fit and healthy yourself. And hey, what fun!!! What better motivation and need is there to keep yourself in shape? Do you mostly agree with the above? Please let us know in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Just like us, Labradors need plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Whether you have a young or old dog, they all need to get the blood flowing to stay healthy and live long happy doggie lives. Regular exercise with your Labrador is very beneficial for you both. Exercise stimulates neuron growth in the brain, encourages the production of endorphins with a known mood-boosting effect , helps strengthen your bones and muscles, improves blood pressure, and can significantly help with depression. Are you having a hard time figuring out how much exercise your lab needs? Answers vary drastically from one dog to another. The amount of exercise to give your Labrador depends mostly on the age of the dog. The key to taking your Labrador puppy out for exercise is to be patient. Some labs are athletic, and thus need more exercise than others. Also, certain Labradors are genetically programmed to be energetic and have high metabolism rates, whereas others are more laid-back. Here are some exercise guidelines a new lab owner can follow to make sure their dog gets the right workout. With older dogs or children, a lab puppy may well try to keep up with them and exhaust themselves before they reach their adult size and stamina. Hold off on structured games and other forms of heavy physical activity for the first three months. This will set the stage for long-term, healthy exercise habits. This rule states that you should take your Labrador puppy out for at least five minutes of exercise per month of age up to twice a day until he or she is fully grown. This can be anything from a walk around the block to a run in the dog park. How old your dog is will make a difference in their stamina. To determine how much exercise your dog needs, first take their age into consideration. Labs that are four years old and above need between one and two hours of exercise per day. The truth is Labradors can lead a perfectly healthy life with just an hour of daily active playtime. The Labrador Retriever was bred to retrieve game for hunters. That means they naturally love to play fetch. All you need is a toy for playtime and room for running around. Tug-of-War is less cardio-oriented but helps with muscle mass and body structure in growing dogs. Plus, they love it! It requires that you prepare your puppy with a proper agility training course. Agility training is great for completing a total-body, structured workout, while also providing mental stimulation for your labrador. This involves activities such as going through walkways, tunnels, and hurdles to reach the other end. You will need to train your lab to engage in the activity and this involves proper instruction. Find one that fits his size and abilities, as well as your own personal comfort level. Either due to space or having a small yard, it may be difficult to get their puppies out every day. The good news is that, with a little creativity, indoor exercise can be just as viable and fun! Here are a few ideas you can try at home. Try Treadmill Training Sessions With Dogs A dog can be trained to use a treadmill and enjoy it, but the experience will take time. Build an Obstacle Course for Your Labrador Use everyday things found around the home or office to create an obstacle course. It also boosts their energy levels and problem-solving skills. For example, you might use old boxes and trash bags to make a tunnel, chairs or stools to jump across, and other furniture for your puppy to climb. At first your puppy may not catch on, but with effective use of the treat and lots of encouragement, you can help it learn as it goes. Hide-and-Seek With a Treat! Hide a treat around the house, and let your puppy work to find it. As you hide treats around the room, remember to make sure they are not hiding somewhere that is unreachable. Tip 2. Make sure that all the activities are not just what you enjoy but what is enjoyable for the puppy. Otherwise, they may get frustrated and stop cooperating with you. Include treats and praise whenever they accomplish something. All dog breeds respond positively to lots of physical affection and verbal affirmation. This will make the activity more enjoyable for the puppy. Keep fun as the central theme and good health will flow. Tip 3. Make an Exercise Routine and Schedule for Your Dog Lab owners, take note: maintaining the health of an adult Lab is all about consistency. And this starts with walks at a young age. Take regular walks with your dog, no matter the weather conditions. Walk at the same time each day in order to create an exercise pattern that both you and your dog can stick to. Maybe you can get the puppy used to a leash and casually walk through your neighborhood with it. That way, you can vary the activity occasionally. In six months, increase the amount of time your dogs are running to 15 minutes. This keeps their energy high and stops weight gain as they mature. Conclusion As a dog owner, your foremost responsibility is protecting the health and safety of your pet. Insufficient exercise causes health problems in dogs , like hip dysplasia especially those already prone to hip or joint problems. Share on. Tweet on Twitter Puppy exercise requirements vary between different types of dog, and as a puppy grows the exercise they need will increase. It is possible to give a puppy too much exercise so I will give you a puppy exercise chart, as a guide to how far a puppy can walk at different ages. Taking your new puppy for a walk We all look forward to the day we can take our new puppy for a walk. For many people, daily dog walks is a huge part of why they bought a Labrador in the first place. Others already take quite small puppies for quite long walks and are surprised to discover that many experts believe this to be a bad thing. So just how much exercise does a puppy really need? How much exercise does a puppy need? This rule of thumb says that a puppy should have no more than five minutes of walking for every month of his age. So that would be fifteen minutes a day maximum for a three month old puppy, twenty minutes for a four month old and so on. This concern about excessive exercise has arisen because it is widely believed that exercise is a factor in the development of serious joint disorders. Especially in larger breed puppies such as Labradors Breeders are particularly concerned about hip dysplasia, a serious and complex disorder of the hip joints, that is believed to be influenced both by inherited factors passed from dogs to their puppies and by environmental factors In addition to factors influencing growth rates, the stresses and strains placed on the vulnerable growing joint by excessive exercise are believed to be a contributory environmental factor in the development of inadequate hip joints. It seems likely, that a puppy that had inherited a tendency for poor hips, could have its soft and still forming hip joints made a good deal worse through prolonged or hard exercise. It is also possible that a puppy that has inherited excellent hips, will come to no harm whatsoever through hard exercise. On the contrary, a certain amount of free running exercise is a good thing Running off-leash A Norwegian study published and which included labradors, showed that puppies given the opportunity to exercise off leash in a park before the age of three months were less likely to develop hip dysplasia HD , not more. Stair climbing The same study showed that puppies that had to climb stairs on a regular basis during the same period were at increased risk of HD You can read about this study in Science Daily. So what does this study tell us? Well, it is only one study, but it suggests that playing in a natural way, with other pups or simply running about at their own speed is probably going to benefit a small puppy Strenuous exercise Whereas more strenuous activity such as climbing hills and stairs, may not be such a good thing at a very young age. Another study has suggested that running hard for a retrieve, may not be great for joint health either. And some breeders also prevent dogs from jumping for the first twelve months to reduce impact on the shoulder and elbow joints. This may be especially important for some of the heavier breeds of dog, and those that are slow to mature. How far should my puppy walk? But how does that translate to distances walked? If you like to think in distances rather than time, a mile is around steps for an adult human and takes about twenty minutes at a moderate walking speed. So a maximum walk for a four month old Labrador might be about a mile. And of course if you are walking out and back again, that means not taking the dog more than half a mile from your home or car, whichever is your starting point. With young puppies, you need to keep a balance. Think about the overall energy your puppy is expending rather than focusing on walking alone. Walking is only one form of exercise and is no more valuable or important than games or training exercises. If you have been to visit a friend with your five month old pup and their dog has played for half an hour in the garden with yours, your dog does not need a walk as well. It is the total exercise that counts. How much exercise is too much? And you are bound to know of someone whose puppy had far more exercise than this and came to no harm. However taking a puppy for long walks or asking him to negotiate very steep or uneven surfaces when he is little, is probably a bad idea. Beware of letting a puppy play for too long with an older dog that does not want to stop. And keep an eye on children who may inadvertently exhaust a puppy by encouraging him to play when he needs to sleep. Crating your puppy when he is tired or overexcited, will enable you to make sure that your puppy gets some well deserved down time. Summary Young puppies need the time and space to run about freely, and free running exercise is beneficial. You do not need to attempt to prevent puppies playing in the garden, trotting about the house or playing with another young puppy for a while. Provided that the puppy is free to stop and rest whenever he wants. As far as we know at the moment, formal exercise — walking on a lead — for example, is probably best restricted using the five minute rule as an approximate guide. And strenuous exercise such as stair climbing, and chasing balls should be limited or avoided altogether in puppies under three months of age. Remember, an adult dog can become an amazing athlete, but like all athletes, fitness and stamina are best built up in gentle stages if injury is to be avoided. Do talk to your vet about exercise at your first appointment with your puppy. We are still learning about hip dysplasia. Research is ongoing, knowledge increases all the time. Your vet should be up to date with the latest information regarding the optimum amount of exercise for your new puppy. Published in April , the Happy Puppy Handbook covers every aspect of life with a small puppy. It will help you prepare your home for the new arrival, and get your puppy off to a great start with potty training, socialization and early obedience. This article was originally published in and has been extensively revised and updated for References Slater et al. Diet and exercise as potential risk factors for osteochondritis dissecans in dogs. Am J Vet Res. Sallander et al. American Society for Nutrition. Krontveit et al. Risk factors for hip-related clinical signs in a prospective cohort study of four large dog breeds in Norway. May 9, Aug 12, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. You want to show off your new labrador retriever puppy. Is it safe to walk your puppy outside? How far can you walk a puppy? Or is it time for a puppy stroller? Puppies usually receive a series of vaccinations starting at six to eight weeks old. Some say wait another two weeks until the vaccinations are fully effective before taking him to places where other unknown dogs may have been. As far as getting our puppies out and about we follow the guidelines set forth by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior. The Primary and Most Important time for puppy socialization is the first three months of life. During this time puppies should be exposed to as many new people, animals, stimuli and environments as can be achieved safely and without causing overstimulation manifested as excessive fear, withdrawal or avoidance behavior. For this reason, the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior believes that it should be the standard of care for puppies to receive such socialization before they are fully vaccinated. They grow more quickly than their smaller counterparts but mature more slowly. Exercising a larger breed puppy too much can lead to orthopedic problems and arthritis. Also, brachycephalic dogs with short muzzles like pugs and shih tzus have a lower tolerance for exercise because they can overheat more easily and have more difficulty breathing. And some breeds, like working, herding, and sporting dogs have a higher exercise need even as a puppy. So your border collie, golden retriever , labrador retriever etc. A rule of thumb is a puppy can walk five minutes for every month of age starting at eight weeks. So a two-month-old puppy can walk about 10 minutes. And a three-month-old can walk for 15 minutes; and a four-month-old for 20 minutes. And so forth. Of course these are general guidelines. Important Considerations When Walking Your Puppy In addition to how far your puppy should walk, there are many things to take into account regarding his excursions. Over weeks, build his endurance. He may have to potty or be thirsty. Avoid the hottest or coldest parts of the day Young puppies can be susceptible to temperature extremes. They may overheat and suffer from heat exhaustion, which can be deadly. In cold weather, puppies may require a coat or sweater to help keep them warm. Breeds with short muzzles such as shihs tzus or Lhasa apsos are especially susceptible to extremes of weather. And salt to melt snow can be dangerous to our dogs too. Places that are slippery can be dangerous for you and your dog to explore. Also, areas with sharp surfaces are hazardous. This can especially occur with blacktop. Also try not to walk him on surfaces that have any chemicals, such as salt to melt snow or weed control, as some are toxic to dogs. Get him used to grass, pavement, and dirt trails. Note From Colby: This is uber important for service dog puppies in training. If a service dog cannot walk across sand, grass, pavement, metal grates, etc without any kind of reaction, then the dog is not suitable as a working service dog. A walk or two a day as well as other play should be enough. Remember not to go so far on other walks, as you have to take into account the portion of the walk returning home. If at any point your puppy seems to be lame, limping or otherwise showing discomfort, end the walk. If your puppy shows any lameness, a vet visit is in order. Give your puppy a few exercise sessions a day You can break up his walk and give him two or three short walks a day. A little fetching his favorite toys can help meet his needs. Some free running in the house or safely enclosed yard can be fun for him. Stuffed Kongs and puzzle toys can help exercise his mind. Remember: He needs physical exercise as well as mental stimulation. Remember to bring the essentials Poop bags and water are important on your walks. You can bring a collapsible bowl or a water bottle with a built-in bowl so your puppy can drink. Be visible! There are reflective and lighted vests , leashes , collars , and harnesses you can purchase. Why Walk Your Puppy on a Leash? He can get exercise other ways such as playing fetch or playing with another friendly pup. But to be able to properly socialize your puppy, he needs to be taken to places on a leash. And socialization involves not only having him meet friendly people and dogs but also exposing him in a positive manner to new sights, sounds, experiences, and footings. There are many benefits to walking your dog, in addition to socialization, including: Physical and mental exercise Your new puppy wants to explore the world with you. In order to grow up to be a healthy adult, your pup requires both. New sights and sounds will stimulate him and help him grow into a well-rounded adult. Weight control Regular short walks will help keep your puppy fit and at the correct weight for his age and breed or mix. Bonding time Regular walks also provide a time for you and your puppy to bond. You puppy will learn that fun, enjoyable things happen when you both interact. And the walks will help provide a basis for a life-long bond with your pup. Reduces unwanted behaviors Exercise helps lessen destructive behaviors. A well-exercised puppy is less likely to engage in destructive chewing, jumping, digging, and other undesirable behaviors. Have him perform a sit. Work with attention. Practicing training exercises he already knows while on his walk will help him learn to do them in everyday life, with distractions. Lessens anxiety and stress The socialization and real-life experiences help a dog cope better with everyday life. There can be too much of a good thing. Even though we want our pups to get a sufficient amount of exercise, we can overdo it. Following the above guidelines should lead to a safe amount of exercise. Too much walking and exercise can also lead to arthritis developing early in life. Too much exercise can lead to severe exhaustion and limping A puppy can get over-tired and even over-heat. Just like when we overdo it, he may have sore muscles and may limp. A vet visit is in order if you see him limp. Over-exercising even can lead your puppy to being more vulnerable to injuries. Too much exercise can cause injuries to heal incorrectly If you exercise a puppy with injuries, he may not heal correctly. Final Thoughts Walking your puppy has many health and socialization benefits. But a walk with your new puppy can be a bonding experience. As a plus, you can show him off to your friends. What about you guys? How much do your walk your puppy? Tell us about your experiences in the comment section below. Related Articles:.

Rosehall Shepherds has been carefully breeding large, old fashioned, straight back German Shepherds for over 20 years. These dogs are very healthy, intelligent, gentle, family friendly dogs. A number of Rosehall dogs have been trained as therapy dogs and are also in other areas of service but primarily family companion dogs. We hope that the following pictures will give you a little taste of how we live, work and play with these wonderful large German Shepherds. The 'big yard' is mostly open and covered with thick grass and is securely fenced. This is the yard where the adult German Shepherds can run free in small groups for longer periods of time requiring less supervision. Big dogs must have a securely fenced yard big enough for them to be able to break into a run so they can frolic in their exercise times. It's good for humans too. Emily takes time daily with each dog to visit, sometimes on the favorite stump in the 'big yard' which is an acre and a half safe and secure play place. These dogs our part of our family and prosper with the abundant attention given to them. The one-on-one time is essential as well as them having time as house dogs. Some of you would call it a pond. This area on the west side of Lake Alice is where much of our afternoon play time is done. We walk and play with them in small groups to keep everyone happy and well socialized. The dogs must have daily opportunities to interact, bond, and play with one another and their humans. These are truly family companion dogs! The creek that carries the overflow from Lake Alice doesn't run year round but when it does, there are a couple of small waterfalls that are very pleasant places to pause and listen to the water. Most of the dogs really like wading around and splashing in the falls. Just another of our several places that are good excuses to visit and pay attention to and play with our doggy friends. Many of our visits also incorporate 'school time' and we find these dogs very easy to train and willing to please. We hope that you have enjoyed this little 'taste' of Rosehall Farm. Contact us to make an appointment to visit if you want to experience more and meet our healthy, Old style, straight back, German Shepherds. Please make sure you read our FAQ page This info will answer lots of your questions and probably raise a few more. It is very helpful to us if you can read this first. Then ask all the questions you may have! Please visit our FAQ page and then contact us. We live out in the country and our phones are not always reliable. If you have trouble getting through, try Emily's cell phone text is best Cell phone voice is rarely usable when we are on the farm so please use text or email. All of our dogs meet the European Standard for health, confirmation, and working ability. On this website we expose the AKC, and American Veterinary System for the pain, suffering and destruction they are causing to this breed. We also expose German Shepherds. This is why that from the over 50, German Shepherd Breeders in the U. You will learn that modern Schutzhund dogs are NOT working dogs, only trained in obedience, to bite a bite sleeve, to track an article across a field, but can hardly function off leash, and certainly could NOT function in the Real working dog World!! You will learn how and why this is happening. In Europe, German Shepherd puppy and dog prices are uniform. However in the U. We break all of that down for you so you specifically what all of this means. This is an incredible and sad statement. Sad that you would know more than ANY breeder, trainer or Veterinarian in America just by reading one website…. .Our puppy facility is located on 12 acres in Tennessee. Unless required to do serious protection, tracking, or Narcotics detection, Authentic German Shepherds dogs do NOT need serious training, only good Parenting from their Owners. This is why you only want to acquire an Authentic German Shepherd Dog. VZH is non-profit, the price of our puppies and dogs is dictated by our overhead. Our dogs thrive on acres of woods and water. We cover everything A-Z here to make you the best dog Parent possible. While he is yet to publish anything in book or journal form, he has amassed hundreds of pages of notes, statistics, spreadsheets, and interviewed hundreds of experts associated with the German Shepherd Dog Worldwide. Edward conducts hours of research each day as time permits, this has been ongoing for over 30 years. German Shepherd Owners give their dogs time they can spare, room they can spare, and love that they can spare. I appreciate that there are so many German Shepherd breeders in Tennessee with a passion for their job. It gets even better when many breeders go the extra mile to provide high-quality breeding services. The eight breeders above deserve to be on the list. A lot of research has gone into creating the list and choosing breeders with quality offerings, and adopting an ethical approach to GSD breeding and training. However, Mengerhaus Kennels is my favorite pick. The team behind Mengerhaus Kennels works as a family to raise the most reliable and competent German Shepherds. They have been working with the dog breed for most of their lives under the leadership of a certified vet, Sierra Menger. Sierra uses her over 14 years of vet knowledge and experience to raise GSDs by offering them all the skills they need to survive in different environments. Each dog has to complete a Volhard Puppy Aptitude Test when between six and seven weeks old to ensure families get the best pup for their needs. However, carry out your research into the top breeders considering your specific needs. Make sure the breeder has the right records and certifications before you commit. Puppy pads Create a Schedule German Shepherd pups would do well with a schedule. Dogs live with a routine, and they are easy to train by having one. For this reason, make a schedule of the things you need to do regularly. Eventually, your pup will learn the routine events and will make itself adept at them. It will help you prepare for your pet, especially in the first few days of living together. As you allow your pet to adjust, do your best to create a stress-free environment for it. Always supervise it as it familiarizes itself with its new home. Still, it would be best to prepare yourself for loud noises when your pet is asleep. Moderate Training German Shepherds are highly trainable. It simply means they respond well, especially to positive reinforcement. Squeaky Toys Out of all toys, your pet will love the squeaky ones. For this reason, prepare for a lot of loud squeaks every time your pet is active. Thus, in picking your pet, you may want to consider getting it from the best. Tells you any health problems A good breeder will tell you any significant health problems in any of the dogs he or she bred. Asks more questions than you A good breeder would ask for more items from you than you would for him or her. Not in a hurry to send off A good breeder is not in a hurry to send the puppies off and get your money. He or she will even show you other breeders and veterinarians caring for their dogs. Requires expectations on both sides A good breeder will create a contract that offers not only what he or she expects from you. More than that, he or she will also show what you can expect from him or her. Sends puppies properly A good breeder will never send a puppy in a compartment and without any responsible person to go with it. Works only with one or two breeds A good breeder works only with a single or a couple of species. Shows breeding experience A good breeder shows her dogs in recognized confirmation shows. He or she will also join his or her breed in other breed-related performance events. Other states. We have answers. The challenge comes when you start to try and determine the reason that these puppies are priced so drastically different. If finding a purebred or purpose-bred designer puppy is important to you, you probably also want to know your new family member's health and behavioral history. That being said, as dog lovers by no means are we anti-shelter, in fact we realize all of the benefits that shelters offer. What is a backyard breeder? A backyard breeder is a term used for puppy businesses who are operating out of a spare bedroom or even out of a residential backyard. With so many backyard breeders flooding the marketing finding German Shepherds for sale in Nashville from reputable puppy businesses can be difficult. How does Uptown Puppies view transparency when it comes to breeding puppies? When it comes to finding the perfect breeder transparency is extremely important. Working with Uptown is far different than just typing a few random terms into your favorite online search engine. How do I find healthy German Shepherd puppies in Nashville? Finding a litter of well-taken care of Nashville German Shepherds for sale and taking one home to meet your family is one of the best feelings in the world. Is it enough to walk my dog, or do they need more exercise? For a lot of dogs a walk around the block or a stroll to the grocery store will be enough but as the dog gets bigger that situation evolves. German Shepherds were bred to be working dogs so you should expect them to have a lot more energy than a Poodle or Miniature Schnauzer. What is a puppy mill? Puppy mills are facilities that breed countless German Shepherds or other valuable dogs while also limiting the resources they are putting into the process. Puppy mills may have grand buildings but that is only because they want to cram as many puppies into them as possible. Exercise Grooming In the 19th century, Shepherds bred all kinds of dogs mainly to herd and guard flocks. Thus, the dogs needed to display a high level of intelligence, extra normal strength, resilience, courage and bravery, a keen sense of smell, and trainability qualities, etc. These mongrel combinations provided dog breeds that could efficiently guard and herd flocks but differed in appearance and ability, from one locality to another. German Shepherd dogs are well known to be highly inquisitive which makes them excellent for rescue mission training. The German Shepherd has a noble character and shows very high levels of loyalty to its owners. The dog is also described as extremely territorial and has displayed characteristics of overprotectiveness in some cases. The German shepherd can survive in all types of environment; their thick furriness makes them better prepared for cold climates. German Shepherds are considered extremely playful and active. These breeds spend half of their daily routine with activities. The German Shepherd is popularly known as an athletic natured dog and requires a good dose of daily exercise to keep up muscle tone, build and development. If improperly exercised the German Shepherd has been known to become frustrated and exhibit undesirable behaviors. The German Shepherd requires an occasional brushing, as this helps with removing loose hair from its fur. The German Shepherd sheds fur once or twice a year and in this time the breed requires a lot of soft brushing. This can be done using a soft to medium bristle brush. The German Shepherd occasionally requires that its nails are trimmed off when they grow too long, however, some breeds instinctually file their nails against any hard surface that can be fine. Excessive nail growth can cause much pain and even lead to structural concerns. In choosing a German Shepherd breed you must ask yourself what it is you want in a dog and what kind of person are you? Our German Shepherd puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. Healthy German Shepherds live for as long as between nine to thirteen years, however, some german shepherd has lived much longer than Thirteen years. How fast can German Shepherds run? An adult German Shepherd can run approximately 30miles per hour. Originally the German Shepherd was bred for guarding and herding of flocks. The German Shepherd dog is highly intelligent and a fairly quick learner and that is why Police and Military institutions use them in operations. How do I care for a German Shepherd dog? The German Shepherd sheds lightly all through the year so be sure to brush it at least twice weekly. Bathe it after each shedding season. Brush its teeth at least once a month. Feed with healthy meals. Routine exercise of at least 45 minutes each day is crucial to the existence of a German Shepherd. Do they shed a lot? Yes, German Shepherds sheds heavily all year round and blows the thick, dense fur under its harsh topcoat twice a year. Are German Shepherds good with kids? German Shepherds are good with kids, however, they can become very protective because of this adult supervisor is highly recommended. At what age are German Shepherds fully grown? In moderation German Shepherds, reach full maturity between months i. There have been known cases of some Eastern European lines taking up to 3years i. Why do German shepherd ears stand up? During the early puppy age weeks German shepherds have floppy ears but this usually becomes pointed ears, standing up due to the cartilage in the ear becoming hard and strong thereby making the ears stand permanently. Are male or female German shepherd more affectionate? The female may also be less tolerable than the male when it comes to playing with children. Are you interested in purchasing a German Shepherd? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

FAQs Goldendoodles, as a breed, have been around since the s. The first dogs were a cross between a purebred Golden Retriever, known everywhere for their sweet, loyal temperament, and a standard poodle, known for their intelligence, affectionate personality and non-shedding coat. Who would have thought that two such wonderful dogs could be improved?! The first generation of this goldendoodle cross is called the F1, and for many years was the only available option. However, F1bs, F2s and multigens are now available from most breeders. As you research the goldendoodle breed, you will find numerous pictures of golden, peach and apricot colored puppies. However, as the successive generations become available, so do various colors and patterns. We love diversity at Hurricane Creek, and currently offer red and white goldendoodle breeds. Quality Breed In addition to the fun colors and patterns, a quick search on the internet will also show labels such as teddybear goldendoodles and English, cream, or English cream goldendoodles. These doodles are bred, not from the golden retriever we are most accustomed to seeing, but from a white golden retriever bred in Europe. There are numerous articles discussing the nomenclature of golden retrievers and whether the terms English and American should be used. However, while I care little about that debate, I do care about the health of our puppies. Golden retrievers are known, not only for their wonderful personalities, but also for the high incidence of cancer in their breed. For reasons not clearly understood, statistics show that the white, blockier golden retrievers with the squarer heads have a much lower incidence of cancer. For that reason, we have elected to not use any American Golden Retrievers in our breeding program unless specifically bred from lines that have been free from genetic cancers for multiple generations. Goldendoodles are family friendly and make terrible protection dogs. They can be watch dogs, because they know how to bark, but they cannot be relied upon for protection because they have no aggressiveness whatsoever. Additionally, they shed very little to none. For your convenience, we provide many options for your method of payment. We take pride in our exceptional service throughout the adoption process and encourage you to call us at any time with questions. Each of these litters takes years of planning to produce. Due to their popularity, these spots fill up quickly. There are usually quite a few families on our Small Goldendoodle waitlist anxiously awaiting the arrival of a new litter. Most people don't realize how long it takes a breeder to breed down to this size. Each of our litters is a four-generation process that has taken approximately 8 years of planning. These litter sizes are small therefore the spaces are extremely limited. We do not breed very many Extra-Small litters, therefore the waitlist can be a bit longer. Like our Small Goldendoodles, Extra-Small litters are a four to five-generation process that has taken approximately 8 years of planning. This breed is completely exclusive to Smeraglia. These puppies are guaranteed to become one of our most popular breeds. We breed this design only four times a year, therefore spots can be extremely limited. Avoid this fee with a Bank Draft or by mailing a check or money order. Subscribe Stay up to date with us, our whereabouts, and events in your area. Windsong breeds Goldendoodle puppies that are healthy, happy, and well-socialized. We help each family select the right puppy for their lifestyle while keeping the individual needs of each puppy in mind as well. Love Our babies receive round-the-clock care from birth until they join their new family at 8 weeks. In fact, our babies spend the first weeks in our master bedroom as this makes for easy nighttime checks! They are loved on from their first day of life by children, cats, and most of all me! At 4 weeks they move to my living room where they can observe and interact more closely with our family. Health A high-quality diet, proper supplements, and the necessary genetic testing is our key to raising healthy puppies. We are passionate about health and are proud to offer a 2-year health guarantee on all our puppies. More info Happiness The happiness and well-being of our moms, dads, and puppies are extremely important to us. All of our breeding dogs live in our home or in loving guardian homes with their forever families. We believe there is a right and wrong way to breed. We are not a kennel, all of our dogs are well-cared for and cherished family members. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Goldendoodles are always cute, but when they come with parti coats, the effect is even more pronounced. A parti coat is one with a main background color that is broken up by patches of one or more other colors, and this creates far more visual interest than a coat with just one color. Therefore, many people look specifically for parti doodle puppies when it's time to get another dog. This means that there is no need to worry about extra health problems, unlike with some colorations or combos found in other breeds or species. Their temperaments are also not affected by their coat colors. With this pattern, the coat has a background color while the patches are white. There are several names for this, ranging from the neutral "abstract" to the distinctly negative "mismarked. Of course, reverse-parti colors are just as adorably cute as the white-background type, and many breeders intentionally attempt to get this look. One of these is merle, which combines different colors more evenly across the puppy's body. The Goldendoodle Association also explicitly mentions brindle and phantom as possibilities. Such a breeder has the parents "on staff" who are able to produce the parti variations when they have puppies. Since there is no way to guarantee exactly which colors will be present in any given litter, the next thing to do is hope they already have some ready to go. If all of the current litter's partis have already gone to homes, you can put your name on a waiting list for the next parti doodles for sale.

Often breeders recognize the popularity of these unique bi- and tri-color patterns and will charge a higher price for them. What is the lifespan of a Springerdoodle? The average lifespan of a Springerdoodle is years. How much exercise does a Springerdoodle need? Springerdoodles are a very active breed and will need minutes of daily exercise to live a happy, healthy life. This figure can range slightly depending on the size, age, and personality of your dog. This breed is not recommended for those who live a sedentary lifestyle. Keep in mind that a standard Springerdoodle will typically need more exercise than a mini Springerdoodle based on size alone. To avoid damaging their developing bones and joints, be careful not to over-exercise your puppy. As a rule of thumb, a Springerdoodle puppy should get about 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, times per day. Once they are fully grown at months, your Sproodle is ready for their full minutes of exercise. Are Sproodles good apartment dogs? Sproodles are not an ideal breed for those who live in an apartment or small house. This breed will be much happier with more space, particularly if you have a large, fenced backyard… and maybe even a doggie door! Mini Springerdoodles need slightly less exercise and are more likely to fit within the weight limits that many apartment buildings have. Is the Sproodle a healthy breed? Springerdoodles are generally considered to be a healthy breed. While mixed breeds tend to be healthier overall than purebred dogs, they are still susceptible to health issues from both parent breeds. Some common illnesses seen in the English Springer Spaniel Poodle mix include elbow dysplasia, otitis externa, progressive retinal atrophy, and epilepsy to name a few. One way to protect your Springerdoodle from accidents and illnesses is to enroll them in a quality pet insurance plan as early in their life as possible. I personally have my dog covered with Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. Are Springerdoodles easy to train? The cross between two very intelligent breeds, Sproodles tend to be smart and easy to train. Springer Spaniels can be seen competing in hunting, agility, and obedience tests. Poodles are often selected to be highly-trained service animals. Are Springerdoodles good with kids? Springerdoodles, in general, tend to be good with kids of all ages. English Springer Spaniels have an average tolerance of kids while Poodles are excellent with them. Crossing these two breeds results in a dog that will likely have a good relationship with the children in your family! Photo courtesy of Pat Patterson. Are Springerdoodles good with other pets? Springerdoodles tend to get along with other dogs fine but may not do well in families that have a cat. While the personality of every dog is different, the natural prey drive of the Springer Spaniel breed can be tough to overcome. Are Sproodles aggressive? Overall, Sproodles are not an aggressive breed. However, this is extremely rare overall. Do Springerdoodles bark a lot? Springerdoodles are average barkers and are not overly quiet or overly vocal. Do Sproodles make good watch dogs? Sproodles tend to make average watch dogs. Photo courtesy of Ruth Prideaux. Where can I find a Springer Spaniel Poodle mix? Finding a Springer Spaniel Poodle mix can be a challenge seeing as how rare this breed is. To learn how to identify a good breeder while avoiding puppy mills and backyard breeders, check out our article here! Pet stores are best to avoid. Not only will you pay a much higher price, but many people question the ethical standards of the breeders they source their puppies from. Finally, you can choose to rescue a Springer Spaniel Poodle mix from a shelter! How much do Springerdoodles cost? Mini Springerdoodles and puppies with more sophisticated color patterns will usually fall on the higher end of this range. More from Popular Doodle.Coat: Low-shedding, wavy or curly Life expectancy: years The springerdoodle is a medium sized breed. They typically weigh between 50 and 70 pounds, and stand 19 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder. Springerdoodle coat can be either curly or wavy, and is usually low-shedding. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies. Springerdoodles come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, cream, and white. Temperament: Springerdoodles are bred to be intelligent, friendly, and loving dogs. They make great family pets, are very curious and sociable, and love being around people. Activity level: Springerdoodles have high energy levels and will consistently need plenty of exercise. They love to play fetch and go out for long walks or runs. Care level: Springerdoodles are relatively easy to care for. They require regular brushing and grooming, and need to be exercised regularly. Suitability for families: A springerdoodle is perfect family pet with children. They are patient, loving, and love to play. Suitability for apartments: Springerdoodles can live in apartments, but need plenty of exercise. They may not be suitable for very small apartments. Trainability: Springerdoodles are intelligent dogs and are relatively easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods such as rewards and praise. Personality of springerdoodle breed Springerdoodles are known for their friendly, outgoing personalities. Due to the fact they constitute a hybrid breed, they make great family dogs and love to be around people. They are great human companions, whether you are a first-time dog owner or a seasoned dog parent. They can also be regarded as formidable guard dogs. Your furry friend is an active breed, has a lot of energy and needs plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. The perfect solution would be to start with some dog sports from a young age. Other types of Springerdoodle pups Mini springer doodle A mini springerdoodle is a smaller version of the springerdoodle, bred by crossing a miniature poodle with English springer spaniels. Mini springerdoodles typically weigh between 15 and 30 pounds and stand 13 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder. Micro springer doodle A micro springerdoodle is an even smaller version of the springerdoodle, bred by crossing a toy poodle with a springer spaniel. Micro springerdoodles typically weigh between 6 and 15 pounds and stand 11 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder. Teacup springer doodle A teacup springerdoodle is the smallest version of the springerdoodle, bred by crossing a teacup poodle with a springer spaniel. Teacup springerdoodles typically weigh between 4 and 6 pounds and stand 9 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder. Springerdoodle health concerns There are multiple diseases that springer spaniel poodle mix can inherit from both parental breeds: Hip dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a disease common in larger dogs that the larger springerdoodles can be prone to. It is caused by a malformation of the hip joint and can lead to pain and lameness. Purebred dogs are also subject to legg calve perthes disease. Eye problems Springerdoodles are also susceptible to several eye problems, including progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and glaucoma. Ear infections Due to their long, floppy ears, springerdoodles are prone to ear infections. It is important to keep their ears clean and dry to prevent these type of infections from occurring. Bloat Bloat is a condition that can be deadly for dogs. It occurs when the stomach twists inside the abdomen and traps gas and air. Elbow dysplasia Springerdoodles can also inherit a condition called elbow dysplasia, which is caused by a malformation of the elbow joint. This can cause pain and lameness in the affected leg. This can cause serious bleeding problems and may be dangerous if your dog is injured. Epilepsy Epilepsy is a neurological condition that can cause seizures. Dogs diagnosed with Addison's disease are expected to have normal, regular life spans. Additionally, springerdoodles may be prone to weight gain and obesity, so it is important for dog owners to feed them a healthy diet and make sure they get plenty of exercise. How to care for springerdoodle puppy? Springerdoodle diet First and foremost is to ensure a healthy and balanced diet for your springerdoodle. Their diet should include all necessary nutrients, vitamins and minerals to support their growth and development. How much to feed a springerdoodle puppy? The amount of food springerdoodles need will depend on their age, size, and activity level. Puppies need more food than adult dogs, and active dogs need more food than inactive dogs. It is important to talk to your veterinarian about how much to feed your springerdoodle puppy. Activity The Springerdoodle is an energetic dog breed, that needs a lot of socialization with other dogs, people and pets. Plan regular walks times per day and time for your active dog to socialize with its furry friends in a dog park or other proper and dog-friendly location. Springerdoodle grooming How to groom a springerdoodle puppy? When it comes to grooming sprinderdoodle puppies, dedicate extra time to hygiene and creating habits that revolve around said hygiene. The coat and skin of a puppy are important to focus on. We recommend no bath for the first months. When you give your springerdoodle his first bath always use a sensitive or puppy shampoo to keep the coat and skin of your pup safe. Read more tips in our article on how to groom puppies highly recommended for first time dog owners! We Recommend How to groom an adult springerdoodle? In order to keep your furry friend healthy and looking good, the springerdoodle coat needs to be brushed at least times a week. If your springerdoodle's coat is longer, the brushing should be done more frequently. Use a brush with bristles and pins in order to thoroughly go through the dog's coat and work through the curls if your dog's coat is curly. Springerdoodles can be groomed at home , but for an all-over haircut and advanced grooming sessions it is better to use help of professionals. Don't forget about regular baths as springerdoodles enjoy it and it helps to keep their skin and coat in a good condition. It will help detangle curls, condition and nourish your dog's skin and coat. You will not be disappointed! One of the most endearing physical attributes of the Springerdoodle is their long floppy ears. Make sure to perform regular check-ups for dirt, wax or debris and clean them with a cotton ball dipped in an ear-cleaning solution. Nails should be trimmed every few weeks. Where to get a purebred dog? There are many springerdoodle breeders across the United States. You can also find springerdoodles at animal shelters and rescue organizations. Responsible springerdoodle breeders If you are looking for the springerdoodle puppy, search for the reputable breeder, who will provide you with a healthy, socialized and good-tempered pup. When choosing a springerdoodle breeder, it is important to find one that is reputable and has experience breeding this designer dog breed with purebred parents. A good breeder will be able to answer any questions you have about the springerdoodle and will be happy to provide you with references on purebrand english springer spaniel and purebred poodle pedigrees. Conclusion: Springerdoodles are a popular type of Doodle, and for good reasons! These pups are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, as well as their intelligence and trainability. Springerdoodles are also relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming, making them an ideal choice for busy families or individuals. If you're looking for a loving, energetic, and family-friendly dog, the springerdoodle may be the perfect breed for you! They looked hard but nothing was up to snuff. Or sniff. Like so many, we love our families and take pride in our homes, and we consider our pets to be integral parts of those entities. That said, we could not find an effective way to coif them that was on par with the way we tended to our children, our homes, or ourselves. These beloved pets are allowed on the furniture and in our beds, and yet even when fresh from the groomer, we knew they did not smell or feel as good as they could. With the development of our coat-specific shampoos, conditioner and deodorizing spray, we think we found just the way to say thanks for being the best and the sweetest MVP of the house. We know beauty is not only skin deep. We did a ton of research to create the entire line. Each product is formulated with its own unique blend of essential oils sourced from around the world. Springerpoo Retriever Description The Springerdoodle is not a purebred dog. It is a cross between the English Springer Spaniel and the Poodle. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. They have beautiful, soft, wavy coats, and they tend to shed less than some of the other Doodles. She is very low- to non-shedding. We rescued him from a local shelter. He has a great sense of humor and always makes us laugh. He is sweet, friendly to all people and animals , affectionate and very gentle. He has an awesome personality. He is quite high energy and needs daily walks. He is well-known by the ladies in our vet's office and the ladies at the local bank drive-thru. Also, most people in our neighborhood know and love Rudy! He should be around pounds when full grown. His father is a white Miniature Poodle whilst his mother is a tan and white English Springer Spaniel. We live in Wales, UK, where Zippy loves running around the hills chasing birds he never catches!! He is a very intelligent dog, which has made all aspects of training very easy. Housetraining was almost instant, and his obedience is excellent considering his age. He is very friendly and loves children. He has become a much loved family member. Life Span Did You Know? The Springerdoodle is a designer dog breed that originated in the United States. They are a cross between an English Springer Spaniel and a Poodle. A hybrid dog may take on characteristics from either or both of their parents. When it comes to a Springerdoodle, they are generally intelligent dogs that love their families and are eager to please. They also tend to have a playful, energetic personality and a gentle disposition. Although this designer dog breed is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable dog organizations. The Springerdoodle is a fantastic addition to any family, whether they are single owners or families with children. Their friendly personality and gentle, patient nature mean they tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Springerdoodles are also devoted and loyal to their families. They tend to be playful and absolutely love being around people. A Springerdoodle is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They love to run and are better suited to homes with some space, especially fenced yards. They do well in just about any climate. But, as with any dog breed, they are sensitive to high heat and to extreme cold. Because Springerdoodles thrive on attention and love their families, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. As a mixed-breed, the Springerdoodle can inherit the potential health conditions common to one, both, or neither of their parent breeds. There may also be health clearances, certifications, or test results that you can review. Springerdoodles are also at a higher risk of bloat. Springerdoodles are intelligent dogs that enjoy learning and are eager to please. This means that they pick up on things quickly. They are highly trainable and are a good fit for owners of any experience level. Puppy training classes may not be necessary, but they can be a good idea as they often provide opportunities to socialize a puppy. The grooming requirements for your Springerdoodle will depend on the coat they inherit from their parents. Should they end up with a Poodle coat, they will be low-shedding. But, they will require daily brushing to remove tangles and prevent mats from forming. They will also need professional grooming every weeks to keep their coat healthy and looking great. Should a Springerdoodle end up with a Springer Spaniel coat, they will have a double-coat that sheds moderately year-round and more heavily as the seasons change. Brushing once or twice a week and an occasional bath is usually enough to keep their coat healthy. Professional grooming for a clip during the summer can be a good idea. Monthly nail trimming is usually sufficient to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning them as needed can help prevent ear infections. When it comes to dental care, many dogs are seriously lacking. This is one of the reasons gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs! By practicing good dental care for dogs , you can help prevent painful dental diseases like gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss later in life. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste daily and visiting the vet for regular cleanings are ideal. The Springerdoodle is a high-energy dog breed. Daily walks plus time to run and some extra activity are usually enough to keep this dog happy and healthy. Their friendly personality makes them a great fit for trips to the dog park. They may also enjoy going for a swim, going on hikes with you, running with you, playing frisbee, and more. A fully-grown Springerdoodle usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. A Springerdoodle generally lives years. Springerdoodle may be the most common name for this designer dog breed, but they are also sometimes called a Springerpoo or a Sproodle. Featured Springerdoodle Article. Adopting or buying a Springerdoodle Caution is needed when introducing this inquisitive working breed to other family pets, including cats. They can be great with kids if properly socialized, and make great pets and companions. Springer doodle dogs are also a good first time dog for new puppy parents, as long as they are prepared to get stuck into that all important positive training. An active breed, exercise is key to their happiness, and yours when sharing their home! Described as a sporting breed, these dogs derive from years of intentional breeding of British land spaniels. The English Springer Spaniel assisted hunters by detecting game birds and driving them out from cover. When the breed became popular in North America, these dogs were well known as bird dogs with powerful noses and high trainability. The Standard Poodle started out as a duck hunting dog. Because of this, Poodles make great retrievers. They were bred to be smart, easily trainable and have a distinct curly coat that kept them warm when swimming in near-frozen lakes. The distinct lion cut of Poodles allowed for better movement and protection when they were working. The leg joints, chest, and hips remained covered to keep joints warm even in the winter. In early 20th century, Miniature and Toy Poodles were bred from the Standard. As of , the three sizes of the poddle are officially recognized by Kennel associations around the world. Springerdoodle Appearance In general these Springerdoodle pups have wavy to curly hair, in a variety of colors that can be solid or mixed. Their ears are usually floppy and medium sized with dark and round eyes. As a mix, the appearance of Springer Doodle puppies can be quite unexpected. On the one hand, we have English Springer Spaniels. These pups have drooping ears and a proud, sturdy body. Although available in a variety of patterns and colors, the preferred one is white and dark brown. Spaniels have soft, elegant facial features that frame their dark round eyes. On the other hand, Poodles also boast a strong, muscular body. The have a moderately rounded head with round, kind eyes. Poodle coat colors come in white, black, or apricot tone on the hallmarked curly fur. Coats and Grooming Contrary to popular opinion, this crossbreed needs grooming and clipping to be healthy. Because of its parent breeds, Springerdoodles inherit the grooming requirements of both. English Springer Spaniels require occasional grooming to avoid mats in their wavy, long coat. Brushing the coat regularly helps with seasonal shedding. Constant trimming is necessary to keep healthy nails. Their long ears heavily covered in fur can cause the ear canal to become moist, resulting in ear health issues. Poodles with longer hair need daily brushing to avoid matting. If the coat is kept short, once or twice a week will suffice. Springerdoodles will exhibit the same grooming and care requirements as either parent breed or a mix of both. Are Springerdoodles Hypoallergenic? Even though much has been said about Poodles being non-shedding dogs making their mixes non-shedding as well this is simply not true. All dogs shed. Curly-haired dogs simply keep the shed hairs inside the curls, making brushing essential to avoid matting. Although Poodles are well known for having low shedding coats, Springerdoodles are not guaranteed to have the tight curls that holds the dander at bay. You will never be completely sure of its size until your Springer Poodle puppy has fully grown. An English Springer Spaniel is generally 19 to 20 inches in height. Thanks to its sturdy, muscular build, the medium-sized Springer Spaniel normally weighs between 40—50 pounds. On the other hand, Poodles come in three distinct sizes. Standard Poodles are usually taller than 15 inches from the shoulder. Miniature varieties are between 10 to 15 inches and Toy varieties are less than 10 inches in height. Of course, the weight and build of Poodles varies greatly depending on their height. Miniatures will range between 10 and 15 pounds; female Standards are generally 40—50 pounds and male Standards 60—70 pounds. Toy Poodles can be as small as pounds. Mini vs Standard Springerdoodles The size of your Springerdoodle will largely depend on the size of its poodle parent. These pups will be on the larger size, tending to weight between 35 and 45 pounds. Most Springerdoodles are this size. Nevertheless, there are also Mini springerdoodles available! These come from crossing with either a Toy or Miniature poodle. More variable in size than the Standard type, Mini springerdoodles can weigh anything between 5 and 25 pounds. Springerdoodle Temperament Springerdoodles will be energetic, intelligent, loyal and affectionate, just like their parent breeds. They will love spending time together, and struggle with being alone. They will also need a lot of attention, and focus on training and exercise too. Springerdoodles are popular for being great companions, family pets, and friendly towards other furry friends and people. While Springerdoodle breeders cannot predict specific characteristics, the Springer Poodle mix will likely exhibit the same smart, friendly, energetic eagerness as the Springer Spaniel and Poodle. English Springer Spaniels are very active, friendly, and also obedient. They love to be with their people and are unhappy when spending large amounts of time alone. On the other hand, Poodles are athletic, eager and companionable. They enjoy being part of the family and dislike being alone as well. Both breeds tend to be patient towards children, especially when they are socialized at a young age. Of course, the natural instinct of your pup need to be properly trained to ensure they are a companionable pal. They require regular exercise which can include long walks, fetching, and swimming. Springer Doodles are intelligent, active, and often require daily outdoor activity. Because of this, your Springer Spaniel Poodle mix will need ample space to run and play, preferably outside. Keeping plenty of toys for your dog to play with when they are inside is also ideal to avoid unwanted attention on household items. Positive Training As for training, this mix will quickly learn new cues and tricks. The English Springer Spaniel and Poodle are both intelligent, which makes them easily trainable, especially if started at a young age. Both of these breeds respond better to positive reinforcement in training, and your Springerdoodle will as well. Are They Good Pets? Springer Spaniel and Poodle are both very active dogs, so the ideal home for the Springerdoodle will be one with the energy to keep up! If you love being active, Springerdoodles make great companions for a single owner or a family with children and other pets. Springerdoodles usually get along with kids and other pets after being properly socialized. They are loyal and enjoy family activities and pleasing their human companions. While these breeds are good family dogs, supervision is suggested when interacting with young children. Potential Health Problems English Springer Spaniels were the first American-bred dogs to be diagnosed with fucosidosis, a fatal autosomal recessive neurological disease. The breed should also be checked for phosphofructokinase deficiency, which can cause chronic anemia, an enlarged spleen, and acute hemolytic crises. In addition, these other conditions could affect a Springer Spaniel: otitis externa, progressive retinal atrophy, and retinal dysplasia. Before getting a pup, talk to the breeder and ask for genetic testing. Poodles of all sizes are prone to idiopathic epilepsy and sebaceous adenitits. The latter can be easily misdiagnosed as a Tyroid problem, so make sure to ask for tests and have a chat about health with your breeder. Toy and Standard Poodles can get a clotting disorder known as Factor XII deficiency, which is an inherited bleeding disorder. Poodle owners must keep an eye out for orthopedic problems in Toy and Miniature varieties, as well as gastric dilatation and volvulus in Standard sized pups. Springerdoodle Puppies The Springer Spaniel Poodle mix is a popular crossbreed, so finding Springerdoodle breeders online should be relatively easy. A responsible breeder will want to make sure you can provide a safe and healthy environment for your new puppy, so they will ask questions about you and your home. These tests are also recommended for Poodles, in addition to knee evaluations and a skin biopsy. Springerdoodle puppies can inherit any aspect of either parent dog, which makes it essential for them to receive the same health tests as the parents! Adult Shelter Dogs Rescuing a Springerdoodle can be a very rewarding experience for everyone involved. On one hand, you will be offering a second chance to a pup, gaining a lifelong friend in the process. On the other, you avoid promoting careless breeding practices while still enjoying the crossbreed you wanted! Of course, adoption has its drawbacks. You will usually get a pup or adult dog that has been abandoned and neglected at some point in their life. This can cause certain scarring and traumas that you will need to address. Training and socialization is also vital: your rescue needs to understand that they are in a safe place and nobody will hurt them. All of this can be a handful for first-time dog owners. Because they know their dogs the best, they will match you with pups that fit your home, abilities and expectations. While first-generation dogs are the most common here, some breeders may opt for other variations simply because breeding lines of multi-gen dogs using Springerdoodle parents crossed back to Poodles makes it easier to create puppies with more predictable coats, colors, and other traits. This is also the case when breeding for smaller-sized dogs. Although usually, the best option here would be to go for a Cockapoo instead. Springerdoodle Health Benefitting from something known as hybrid vigor better health through a wider variety of genes , Springerdoodles typically live somewhere between 12 and 15 years. Exactly where they sit on this line will be, in part, determined by their size and gender. Smaller dogs tend to outlive their larger cousins meaning your Mini SpringerD will likely be on the higher end of that approximation, whereas you might expect your Standard SpringerD to be on the lower end. Females also usually outlast males — as is the case with all species. Obviously, care will factor in quite a lot here. You will want to ensure you are feeding your pup the very best kinds of kibble to keep them in tip-top condition, and that you are giving them plenty of exercise too. Regular vet visits are a must as the pros will know what health conditions to look out for with these particular dogs. This latter problem mainly affects medium-to-large dogs, especially as they start to get on in years. However, they can also be a little on the stubborn side if they are not entirely down with what you are asking them to do. If not, there are some great in-person and online schools where you can learn the best approach. They will need plenty of regular walks to keep them happy. With two water-loving breeds in the mix, chances are your puppy will love nothing more than tramping through every puddle. If you can spend time in a place where they can swim and enjoy the water, the more the better. A nice big yard will serve these dogs very well, especially if you and your family have plenty of time to chuck about a ball for them. Otherwise, having some toys around that, your SpingerD can use to entertain themselves is a good idea. The Kong Classic Dog Toy is a particular favorite among Doodle owners — especially those with super high energy hounds. The Poodle and the Springer Spaniel have massively different hair types. Your pup could easily inherit either, no matter what the breeder might try and tell you. While this may seem the best coat of the canine world, it actually takes far more work than you would think. The Spaniel coat, on the other hand, is double-layered, often wavy with feathering around the ears, legs, and tail. These dogs shed moderately throughout the year, and they also need quite frequent grooming to prevent knots and tangles. Two-to-three times a week will probably be enough to keep hair out of your house, with regular trims thrown in on top of that. Genetics being what they are, it might be the case that your Springerdoodle ends up with some crazy combination of the two-parent pup coats. This could be curly, wavy, straight, long, short, single-layered, or double-layered — basically, anything goes. The best combination in terms of grooming would be wavy, short, and single-layered. Many Doodle parents opt to take their pooch to the groomers on a regular basis to stay on top of their coat care. While Doodle breeders are on the rise, most of them tend to specialize in the more common Goldendoodles, Bernedoodles, etc. This might make finding a Springerdoodle a little more challenging. A good place to start is our breeder directory. It pays to really do your research here. There are plenty of scammers around who will happily take your money and puppy mill facilities that breed poor-quality animals. These are the red flags to watch out for regarding both of these. Springerdoodles, with their loyal, affectionate spirits, make excellent family pets. However, as these dogs tend to be a little on the larger side and a lot with the energy, they are perhaps better suited to an active household with teens and older children rather than one with younger kids and babies about. Are Springerdoodles bigger than Cockapoos? Usually, a Springerdoodle would be bigger than a Cockapoo simply because Springer Spaniels are larger than Cocker Spaniels. That being said, there is some crossover because of the different size variations of both dogs. A Maxi Cockapoo could very well outweigh a Mini Springerdoodle and maybe even some Standard-sized ones too. Do Springerdoodles bark a lot? Springerdoodles are not known to be barking dogs, which means that if you are in search of a watchdog, then you should probably look elsewhere. However, SpringerDs might get a little vocal when playing, likewise if they are left alone and are unhappy about it. These dogs do better in a place where there is always someone around to play with. Springerdoodles are not among the more well-known of the Doodles. However, they deserve plenty of recognition because of the delightful dogs they are. If you like the sound of a companion pup to accompany you on long walks, days in the park, and more than this could be the right choice for you. They are sociable dogs by nature and want to always be surrounded by family. You Might Also Like. A reputable breeder will always test their dogs for these diseases and should be able to show you the medical reports of both parents. If puppies are responsibly bred, then the likelihood of your Springerdoodle developing any of these problems is low. It would be best if you took your dog to visit the vet regularly, especially as they get older. Identifying and treating any issues as soon as they arise will ensure your dog lives a healthy, long life. What is the lifespan of a Springerdoodle? Springerdoodles are hardy dogs that generally live for 10 to 15 years. Miniature-sized Springerdoodles tend to live longer than standard-sized ones. Diet Feeding your Springerdoodle a balanced diet will keep them healthy and full of energy. They need to eat good quality, high-protein dog food for their development stage. Your Springerdoodle will benefit from a homemade or raw diet if they get all the necessary nutrients. Springerdoodles are not gluttons, like Labradors, so there is less risk that they will overeat. However, to ensure your Springerdoodle maintains a healthy weight, you need to pay attention to their portion sizes and adjust according to their age, size, and activity levels. Exercise The Springer Spaniel Poodle mix has heaps of energy, but this is not to say that they cannot live in apartments or smaller homes. They can adapt to less space if you give them the necessary exercise. Full-grown Springerdoodles need at least an hour of exercise every day. If they do not have a mental and physical outlet for their energy, they can develop behavior problems and become destructive. Daily walks, runs, and visits to the dog park are a must! Springerdoodles enjoy a wide range of activities. They love to swim, go for runs and walks with their family, play fetch, and goof around. Agility courses are great for exercising these athletic dogs. Their fur can be straight, wavy, or curly, and they can have a long or medium-length, double-layered coat. The generation affects coat type. A first generation, or f1 Springerdoodle, will have a coat that is medium to long in length. It will be curly or wavy. Due to the backcross, an f1b Springerdoodle will have a very curly coat similar to the Poodle coat. Springerdoodles with very soft fur are prone to getting tangles and mats. Therefore, it is essential to groom them consistently to maintain their coat. How frequently you need to brush them depends on their fur type. Poodle-like fur requires more effort than Spaniel-like fur. Brushing their coat daily keeps mats and knots at bay, removes twigs and debris, and minimizes shedding. A Springerdoodle with a well-kept coat may not shed at all! Their fur can be thick, so to keep them cool during summer, it helps to clip their coat. Springerdoodles do not require frequent bathing, but you should brush their teeth regularly and clean their ears. Like all dogs, their nails should be clipped short. How much do Springerdoodles cost? This depends on size, coat type, coloration, gender, and generation. Possibly the only negative thing about Springerdoodles is their price. If you want a Springerdoodle puppy, you must be willing to pay a hefty amount. As a relatively new and fashionable breed, Springerdoodle puppies are rare. Miniature Springerdoodles are more expensive than standard-sized ones. Female Springerdoodles are slightly more expensive than male Springerdoodles. A female Springerdoodle may be more expensive due to breeding potential. Coat color and pattern make the most significant difference in the price of a Springerdoodle puppy. Merle Springerdoodle puppies are expected to be some of the highest priced. Unique coat patterns like phantom, tuxedo, or parti will increase the price. Springerdoodle Breeders Finding a good breeder is the most important step in getting a new puppy. Avoid pet shops and puppy mills at all costs! Family-raised puppies are of a higher quality and are far more ethical to buy. But where does one even begin looking for a Springerdoodle breeder? The best places to start searching are the kennel clubs that recognize Springerdoodles. Doing your homework before committing to a breeder is important. Reputable breeders should have no problem providing this information. FAQs Here, I try to answer some common questions about this breed. Are Springerdoodles hypoallergenic? No dog is actually hypoallergenic. Depending on the nature of the coat they inherit from their parents, Springerdoodles can be low-shedding. Springerdoodles with a straighter, more Spaniel-like coat tend to shed a little. However, if you brush them often, you can minimize shedding to the extent that they are almost hypoallergenic. What is the difference between Springerdoodles and Goldendoodles? Goldendoodles and Springerdoodles look very similar and have the same sweet personality. Goldendoodles are a mixture between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Compared to Springerdoodles, Goldendoodles are a little larger in size, and they are lighter in color. Can I adopt a Springerdoodle? Unfortunately, Springerdoodles can rarely be adopted because few dog shelters specialize in designer dog breeds. Due to the high demand of Doodles, these dogs rarely end up in regular dog shelters. Are Springerdoodles good with young children? Yes, they are pretty good with children. However, it is recommended to supervise your Springerdoodle when they play with children and babies. Their energy and strength can sometimes be overwhelming to young ones. Do Springerdoodles like water? Springerdoodles love water. They are naturals when it comes to swimming. They inherit their love for water from both parent breeds: the Poodle and Springer Spaniel. Be careful near pools, ponds, or lakes because your Springerdoodle will want to jump right in! Final Thoughts In this article, I covered: History of the parent breeds What a Springerdoodle looks like Personality and Traits Health of a Springerdoodle Price of a Springerdoodle puppy Springerdoodles are one of the best breeds for a family dog. They have all the qualities you could hope for in a canine companion — an endearing expression, a loving, gentle nature, and the playfulness and energy to keep up with the kids. If you want an active, social, and intelligent dog, a Springerdoodle is the dog for you! Depending on the size of your home, you can get a Mini Springerdoodle or a standard Springerdoodle. The only drawback to these stunning dogs is how expensive they are. Related Posts Looking for other Spaniel-Poodle mixes? The Australian Goldendoodle is a mix between a Cocker Spaniel and few other breeds. Kevin is a proud Bernedoodle owner and Doodle dog fanatic. Read how a chance encounter with two Bernedoodles spurred a lifelong passion here. If you want to get in contact with Kevin, you can send him a message.