golden retriever puppies puppies
Many will say I want a puppy on a certain date. Mother Nature has blessed us with two wonderful litters. Please ask for a price on the merle puppies. We always welcome visitors! About Us Experienced Breeders We have been breeding dogs for 33 years and breeding labradoodles for 19 years. We also breed occasional litter of Moyen poodles. I Carol have a degree as licensed veterinary technician which allows me to bring my medical knowledge into the breeding program. All puppies leaving our home will have excellent temperaments! We have worked with a lot of families over the years and we pride ourselves in being very family friendly. Our goal is to place the perfect 4-legged family member into your home. Don't buy from a breeder that won't show you their dogs or makes excuses why you can't visit. We welcome your visit! Our Family We are a family run business. Carol and Tom established Acme Creek Kennels in .Amber and Ryan run the boarding and daycare. Carol and Amber raise the labradoodles. Our guarantee We guarantee our labradoodle puppies 2 years. We are also available throughout your dogs life for any questions that may arise. In order to provide the healthiest puppy for your family we do hip, eye and DNA testing. Our labradoodles have fantastic temperaments, We have 30 years experience as a veterinary technician and breeder. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Deer Creek Comfort Dogs Shaping future companions for families and those in need of comfort Our family has been raising puppies for over 20 years. Our children have always had a passion for dogs which began our journey and now our grandchildren enjoy growing up with our wonderful dogs by their side. Deer Creek provides emotional support dogs, therapy dogs, service and therapy prospects, canine good citizen dogs as well as family pets. Deer Creek assists our families with puppy selection to help ensure the families get the puppy that will work well with their needs. Someone once said, "Acquiring a dog may be the only opportunity a human ever has to choose a relative" and we hope you choose one of ours. If you are interested in finding your new family member, fill out our puppy application and we will be thrilled to work with you. We recognize that our dogs have the capability of changing peoples' lives on a therapeutic level. Many of our Doodles have become therapy dogs at funeral homes, children's advocacy centers, hospitals and nursing homes, and others have found homes as anxiety, PTSD and emotional support dogs. Learn more about our nonprofit organization Deer Creek Paw Prints at www. Learn More Molly, Rhys, and Beau! They were bred to get a less allergic and less aggressive breed. It was mostly achieved, but some exceptions exist. These curly balls of fur have become quite popular today for having a warm temperament and adaptability. Properly bred Labradoodles prove to be the best company, if not the best guard dogs. A lot of households with children prefer having a Labradoodle in the USA. Features Labradoodles are an easy-to-go breed with a life span of years. They adapt quickly but can be hyper-energetic. They are available in various sizes and colors with good characteristics. One should always opt for a trusted and ethical breeder to get the healthiest dog. Labradoodles have these basic features. Appearance A standard Labradoodle is inches tall, while the medium one is inches tall, and the miniature Labradoodle is inches tall. They generally have long, wavy hair, making them look like little teddy bears. They can be found in a combination of chocolate, red, gold, black, and cream colors. Weight The weight varies for each dog, but there is a broad range for each size of Labradoodle available. The standard Labradoodle weighs anywhere between pounds, the medium Labradoodle weighs between pounds, and the Miniature Labradoodle weighs between pounds. Personality Labradoodles are one of the friendliest breeds you can ever find. They are loyal and have a warm temperament. Full of energy, these bundles of joy like surrounding people all the time. They adapt to the living conditions well and can be left alone for some time. Labradoodles are an intelligent and calm breed and with proper training. Training and grooming Labradoodles of all types are easy to train and groom. They require regular grooming and exercise. They are both hot and cold weather tolerant and trained for better tolerance. Based on the proportion of characteristics of both the breeds required, the various types of Labradoodles bred are: It is the original Labradoodle. In addition to being a Labradoodle, it has another characteristic of the pure breed. F2 Labradoodle F2 is the second-generation Labradoodle. A cross between two F1 Labradoodles gives F2 Labradoodle. F2B Labradoodle It is almost .F3 Labradoodle Also called the multi-gen Labradoodle, it is the third or more generation Labradoodle. Why Labradoodle? Labradoodles are not only intelligent and active. If you want more reasons to get yourself Labradoodle puppies in Michigan, here are other features that make them a good choice. Less shedding: The deliberate mix with a Poodle makes a Labradoodle shed lower than the standard breeds. The choice for novices: Labradoodles are easy to train and quickly adapt to their surroundings, making them a good choice for new learners. Although it is not a difficult procedure, their energy levels might make it difficult sometimes. Some tips below might help take care of a Labradoodle. Exercise Labradoodles require minutes of exercise every day. Their wanderlust makes them require regular walks. If in a small apartment, it is necessary to take them outside in parks or gardens to keep them happy and healthy. Socialization Early socialization is a pompous activity with a Labradoodle. It means keeping them around lots of people. This helps them become friendlier, and they pick up recognizable traits. Grooming Labradoodles require grooming, like brushing, combing, and bathing regularly. They have a great liking to water, so it is easy to groom them. Generally, getting professional grooming kits is a good option. Family Environment It becomes imperative to keep the Labradoodle inside with the family. They are sensitive creatures and cannot sleep outside. Any comfy place near the bed or in the living room works well with the breed. Final Words With its warm temperament, loyal and adaptable nature, Labradoodle is a perfect fit for company, even on tours and travels. Michigan provides numerous options to choose from, but as a matter of concern, most of the dogs may not have a healthy lifestyle in which they are raised. To find good Labradoodle puppies in Michigan for your family, you must trust only credible breeders. You should also be aware while looking out for dogs from mills as they may not be healthy. The article familiarizes readers with the 6 best Labradoodle breeders in Michigan MI. So, ensure you choose from the best breeders to raise a healthy and active Labradoodle that fits into your family fully! These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. The intent was to create a breed that was allergy and asthma friendly with the temperament of a service dog. This journey was inspired by a vision impaired woman in Hawaii needed a Guide Dog which wouldn't aggravate her husband's allergies. To continue the efforts of Wally Conron, breeders in Australia began breeding Labradoodles determined to produce litters with consistent conformation, coat type, and temperament. During the 90's, a number of other dog breeds were bred into the Labradoodle lines to assist in this effort. Most often the English Cocker Spaniel and American Cocker Spaniel were the breeds used, however, it is reported that a few other dog breeds were also introduced into certain lines. DNA evidence of these dog breeds are still found in a few lines today, while others were bred out and not re-introduced into any other blood lines. Breed History We wanted a manageable sized dog that was allergy-friendly and still had the soft coat and looks we loved. Our search brought us to the Australian Labradoodle. We NEEDED a coat that we could trust would be allergy-friendly as my husband and a couple of my girls suffer from severe allergies. That included our one-year-old that would require a dog patient enough to put up with all that she would inflict. Yet, at the same time the playfulness our older girls would want. Scarlet, our foundation dog, has proven to us the multigenerational Australian Labradoodle has lived up to all of her billing. We wanted the cutest of dogs that could adjust to a variety of situations. We also wanted to align with an organization that held a high standard for the breeders involved, and that is where the ALAA comes into the picture. We personally are striving to hit that high standard with our breeding program only breeding Scarlet with the highest quality sires. Extensive health testing requirements for Silver and Gold breeding dogs. Holding breeders to a high standard of ethics in breeding and business practices. High Standards for breed development. Genetic screening to ensure the greatest quality puppies. Our Poodles, and Labrador Retriever Puppies Standard Poodle Puppies All of our poodles are very intelligent, aim to please and are friendly and loving. We strive to breed well rounded puppies suited for multiple tasks. View Puppies Labrador Retriever Puppies They're friendly, playful, adventurous, good with children and highly trainable -- is it any wonder that Labrador Retrievers are some of the most popular dogs in America? As dog breeders in Michigan specializing in quality pure bred Labradors, Standard Poodles, Miniature Poodles and Toy Poodles, our pups are bred for health, gentle temperaments, and wonderful companions. Here at Rozey's K9 Farm we are a small family farm that specializes in our breeding. Fabulous Miniature and toy poodle puppies are also bred once in a while. Most importantly, we breed to better the quality of the Standard, Miniature and Toy Poodle, as well as the Labrador, and to preserve fabulous bloodlines. Our top priority here at Rozey K9 Farm is the happiness and health of our puppies. We are trusted and experienced Lab breeders in Michigan, priding ourselves in raising Standard Poodle, Miniature Poodle and Labrador puppies that make wonderful companions for your family. Each puppy leaves here ready for a lifetime of love and companionship with their new families. Our thrill especially comes from seeing our puppies bring joy and happiness to their new homes. As a result of this they all have wonderful, gentle and friendly personalities. According to AKC standards, our parents also meet and have great build and conformation. Because of these outstanding qualities, our Poodles and Labradors excel in AKC performance and many also hold therapy titles. Consequently, we are always working above and beyond to bring out the best in all of our Poodles, and Labs, Our Poodle, and Labrador Puppies Welcome to our Farm Kathy I just wanted to drop you a note regarding our puppy Woody. I have never had a puppy so perfect! He has everything: a wonderful temperament, intelligence and gorgeous features. Everyone just marvels at his loving eyes. He's perfect on the leash, in fact he'll grab the leash in his mouth and take me for a walk. It's very cute. He loves other dogs and people of all ages. He is just a pleasure in every way. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Detroit MI? We have answers. Give me an overview of Labradoodle puppies for sale in Detroit MI. Labradoodles are hugely popular rat the moment, so much so that litters can sell out in a flash! New litters are always appearing, but you really need to act fast with this particular breed in order to avoid missing out. So if you find a Labradoodle for sale Detroit that seems right for you, don't hang around or hesitate too long. What is the difference between purebred dogs and mixed breed dogs? Labradoodles for sale in Detroit are a famous and popular example of mixed breed dogs. In simple terms, this means that various breeds have been crossed over to create them, and Labradoodle pups have various qualities and characteristics, inherited from those parent breeds. Purebred dogs, however, are created by crossing parents of the same exact breed. Do you sell the cheapest Labradoodle puppies for sale in Detroit? Rather, they provide bespoke, boutique experiences for their customers, upholding the highest breeding standards, carrying out health checks, helping buyers every step of the way, and so on. Reputable shelters can be a terrific option and we fully support the wonderful work they do, but when it comes to finding a designer dog, like a Labradoodle for sale in Detroit, shelters might not be able to meet your needs. These dogs are hugely popular and sell out almost instantly, so if you really want one, featured Labradoodle breeders Detroit on Uptown are your best option. How do I know that my Labradoodle will be healthy? When you're buying puppies online, it's normal to have a few concerns about their health. However, you won't need to worry about a thing when you choose Uptown. The featured breeders and businesses in our Network always provide nose-to-tail health checks on each and every pup they sell, so you won't have any nasty surprises. Is it enough to walk my Labradoodle, or do they need more exercise? Labradoodles for sale Detroit have Labrador Retriever genes, and Labradors are some of the most energetic dogs around! Labradoodles follow in those footsteps and they need a couple of hours of exercise each day to really burn off all their energy and stay healthy. Two long daily walks are recommended for this breed, as well as toys and playtime around the house too. Do you recommend specific food for Labradoodle puppies Detroit? One of the golden truths about dogs is that they're all different. They have their likes and dislikes when it comes to food; some might wolf down everything you put in front of them, while others will be much more fussy. We recommend that you take some time to get to know your Detroit Labradoodle for sale; try out a few different foods and speak with your vet for advice if your pup is a picky eater. What is an Australian Labradoodle? There are different varieties of Labradoodles: American Labradoodle puppies for sale Detroit are essentially just a mix of Labrador Retrievers and Poodles, but Australian Labradoodles involve a mixture of additional breeds, including Poodles, Labrador Retrievers, Irish Water Spaniels, Curly Coat Retrievers, American Cocker Spaniels, and English Cocker Spaniels too, giving them a little more variety in terms of looks and qualities. How does Uptown Puppies work for finding Detroit Labradoodle puppies for sale? Ready to find some lovely Labradoodles? Next, contact the sellers to learn more about the Labradoodles you like the most. Once you've decided on a Labradoodle Detroit, simply make the necessary arrangements to bring it home, and then enjoy your new friend! It's as simple as that. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places with Labradoodles for sale? We understand that many people might like to visit a puppy breeder in person and meet each pup, but this just isn't always possible. That's where we come in.
Welcome to our website! A photo of Rocky, the best Boxer ever, and the one who started it all! We are a family owned operation that breeds champion bloodline AKC Boxer puppies. Our objective is to produce the highest quality puppies, for family pets and companions. We do not offer nor do we guarantee our puppies for show or breeding, instead we would rather they be considered by the people that adopt them as family members, preferably as children! Our love for Boxers came about after we welcomed our first Boxer Rocky into our home. He is an amazing dog, and has been the backbone of our program, providing many of the adult Boxers that we have today. Although he is no longer used for breeding, his amazing personality seems to be what everyone we encounter is looking for in a Boxer. It's no accident that we chose to keep his puppies, they have the same laid-back and relaxed personalities as Rocky. We are vigilant to assure that our puppies are the finest available, we use the best technology to closely monitor the mother and her babies for the first eight weeks. We work with and handle the puppies daily, pampering them helps to create superior emotional health. Three days after birth dew claws are removed and tails are docked by a licensed veterinarian. Vaccinations and deworming is completed utilizing a strict program, all documentation is provided. Pre-crate training begins at six weeks of age. Puppies are socialized with adult dogs and other animals, such as cats at an early age. All trademarks and copyrights on this page are owned by their respective owners. All else Copyright Riverhillboxers. All Rights Reserved. White Boxer Dogs Overview Regrettably, some people still believe that white Boxer dogs or puppies are the least favorable of the breed. Some will argue that those dogs born white are more prone to illness or more aggressive than the other more traditionally colored dogs of the breed. Some think that they have a different set of personality traits and will show different behavior than more traditionally colored dogs. For those of us who are lucky enough to love a white Boxer puppy.This simply could not be further from the truth. There is a lot of false information that can easily be found.So, let's clear this up by looking at the facts. While each dog is an individual and has his or her own personalty quirks, in general, white Boxer dogs will behave exactly like most other more traditionally colored pups and dogs. There is no set change in disposition, aggressiveness or any other trait. Most, if not all Boxers are comical, fun loving and expressive animals with a strong craving to please their owners. They are excellent companions, family pets and enjoy the company of their humans. A white Boxer dog is not automatically ill or blind or has eye issues.In some cases, color can go back as far as 5 generations. Both of the parents must carry the genetic code white. In every way the puppy is the same as all of its siblings…with all the liveliness, traits, and spirit that make them Boxers. A white Boxer is not an albino. Albinos entirely lack pigment. Any dog breed will infrequently have an albino…although it is very rare. When a dog is an albino there is no colored pigmentation anywhere on the dog…They have pink eyes, and a complete lack of color anywhere on the body. Most white Boxer dogs have some spots on their skin which can be seen due to their short coats and have some markings around their nose and mouth. Some have colored markings in their coat such as brown spots around an eye or on the back, etc. They will have pigment in their eyes, this alone rules out albinism as the cause of their whiteness. Approximately one in four puppies are white either all white or majorly white. Therefore, this is not a rare color. Because of this limitation, white Boxer dogs do not meet the breed standard for show conformation. Many breeders and handlers hope that this changes. White Boxers, as beautiful as they are, may someday be accepted for conformation in AKC show events. There are breeders and people in the general public who feel that white Boxer dogs are inferior to fawn or brindled colored Boxers and have more health problems. .Recently, there has been more studies to either substantiate or dissuade the claims that white Boxers are more prone to problems than standard colors. The only claims that seem to have merit are: They are more likely to sunburn And the white Boxer like many other breeds with similar loss of pigment are more prone to deafness in one or both ears. They are not rare -Approximately 25 percent of all boxers born are white. They are not albinos — They have colored eyes, colored touch, inside of the ears, belly and bottom of the paws. They can sunburn easy — an owner should use human sunscreen on their dog if they are to be outside for more than 30 minutes — And remember that the UV sun rays CAN penetrate through clouds, so it is better to be safe than sorry. They can be deaf and this is one of the biggest reasons why most breeders do not purposefully breed for the white color. Blindness is a bit more common with the white Boxer. Some people believe that white Boxers develop cancer more easily than the more standard colored dogs ; however this is still up for debate and has not been proven. The AKC will deny registration for any puppies born to a registered white Boxer. They have the same temperament and personality as other Boxers. .They are happy, loyal, social, friendly dogs when raised in a loving, appropriate home. The white Boxer may have pigmented patches around the eyes and ears and other limited points on the body, but the Check has much more pigment and could be called piebald .A flashy Boxer is one who carries one dose of the gene. An albino Boxer dog would have no color on the skin as well; the eye rims, nose, bottom of the paw pads , and lips would be pink. In addition, most albino dogs have very light eyes. White Boxers, on the other hand, will have some skin pigmentation. Typically, the nose is black, as are the lips. Eye rims and paw pads can be black. Please note that very young Boxer puppies often have pink noses. So, if you have an all white Boxer newborn puppy and the nose is pink, this is not an indication of abinism. Over the of the next few weeks, nose color should come in. Final nose coloring may be fully black or spotted. Many wonder if a Boxer puppy is born deaf or becomes deaf. With all puppies, the ear canal stays closed and will open between days 10 and .A white Boxer - if he is to be deaf - will progressively lose his hearing. The cause of the deafness connected with the white color is the absence of pigment cells in the inner ear resulting in a loss of sensory hair cells at about 6 - 8 weeks of age. For this reason, potential puppy buyers may want to wait until the 10 week old mark, at which time it should be clear as to whether or not the Boxer has his hearing. The shortage or absence of pigment cells is also the cause of the white coat and un-pigmented third eyelids called the haw. In general the more pigment in the coat the lower will be the risk of deafness, but all predominantly white dogs are at risk of being deaf, not just the Boxer breed. Please note however that not all white dogs are white because of a lack of pigment cells. Some breeds such as the West Highlands and Poodles just have extremely diluted pigmentation; they have a full complement of pigment cells, so are not at risk of being deaf. There are of course many other causes of deafness in dogs. Not all are attributable to the absence of pigment cells. And deafness can be caused by external factors too. Tia and Dyson, both 8 years old Photo courtesy of Birgitta Woolmer. Further information: Bullenbeisser Friedrich Robert and his boxer, The Boxer is a hunting mastiff developed in Germany in the late 19th century from the now extinct Bullenbeisser , a dog of English Mastiff descent, and Bulldogs brought in from Great Britain. Its task was to seize the prey and hold it until the hunters arrived. In later years, faster dogs were favored and a smaller Bullenbeisser was bred in Brabant , in northern Belgium. The Brabanter Bullenbeisser is generally accepted as being a direct ancestor of today's Boxer. The club went on to publish the first Boxer breed standard in , a detailed document that has not been changed much since. During World War I , the Boxer was co-opted for military work, acting as a valuable messenger dog, pack carrier, attack dog , and guard dog. Taken home by returning soldiers, the dog was introduced to a wider audience and soon became a favorite as a companion, a show dog, and a guard dog. Boxer early genealogy chart Flocki, the first Boxer German citizen George Alt, a Munich resident, mated a brindle-colored female dog imported from France named Flora with a local dog of unknown ancestry, known simply as "Boxer", resulting in a fawn-and-white male, named Lechner's Box after its owner. This dog was mated with his own dam, Flora, and one of his offspring was a female called Alt's Schecken. George Alt mated Schecken with a Bulldog named Dr. Flocki was the first Boxer to enter the German Stud Book after winning the aforementioned show for St. Bernards in Munich , which was the first event to have a class specific for Boxers. Blanka von Angertor, Flocki's sister, was even more influential when mated with Piccolo von Angertor Lechner's Box grandson to produce the predominantly white particolored female dog Meta von der Passage, which, even bearing little resemblance with the modern Boxer standard early photographs depict her as too long, weak-backed, and down-faced , is considered the mother of the breed. Our great line of sires all trace directly back to this female. She was a substantially built, low to the ground, brindle and white particolor, lacking in underjaw and exceedingly lippy. As a producing female, few in any breed can match her record. She consistently whelped puppies of marvelous type and rare quality. Those of her offspring sired by Flock St. Salvator and Wotan dominate all present-day pedigrees. Combined with Wotan and Mirzl children, they made the Boxer. Breed name[ edit ] The name "Boxer" is supposedly derived from the breed's tendency to play by standing on its hind legs and " boxing " with its front paws. Brace's Pet Owner's Guide to the Boxer, this theory is the least plausible explanation. At that time, the spelling "baxer" equalled "boxer". Both the verb boxen [English "to box, to punch, to jab"] and the noun Boxer were common German words as early as the late 18th century. The term Boxl, also written Buxn or Buchsen in the Bavarian dialect, means "short leather trousers" or "underwear". The very similar-sounding term Boxerl, also from the Bavarian dialect, is an endearing term for Boxer. These dogs were the result from mixes of Bullenbeisser and other similar breeds. Bier beer probably refers to the Biergarten, the typical Munich beer garden, an open-air restaurant where people used to take their dogs along. The nickname "Deutscher Boxer" was derived from Bierboxer and Boxer could also be a corruption of the former or a contraction of the latter. This seems improbable. Any such action would likely result in a badly bitten if not broken leg. On the other hand, a German breeder of 40 years' experience states positively that the Boxer does not use his feet, except to try to extinguish a small flame such as a burning match. But a Boxer does box with his head. He will hit not bite a cat with his muzzle hard enough to knock it out and he will box a ball with his nose. Or perhaps, since the German dictionary translates Boxer as "prize-fighter", the name was bestowed in appreciation of the fighting qualities of the breed rather than its technique. Boxer is also the name of a dog owned by John Peerybingle, the main character in the best-selling book The Cricket on the Hearth by Charles Dickens , which is evidence that "Boxer" was commonly used as a dog name by the early 19th century, before the establishment of the breed by the end of that same century. A brindle Boxer with two white socks Brindle, fawn, and white Boxer puppies See also: Dog health A healthy Boxer puppy Leading health issues to which Boxers are prone include cancers , heart conditions such as aortic stenosis and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy the so-called " Boxer cardiomyopathy " , [35] hypothyroidism , hip dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy and epilepsy; other conditions that may be seen are gastric dilatation volvulus also known as bloat , intestinal problems, and allergies although these may be more related to diet than breed. An emerging health concern among boxers is Boxer Juvenile Kidney Disease JKD , where the kidneys do not develop normally during gestation and leads to chronic renal failure. There is strong evidence to suggest JKD is an inherited condition in boxers with research being undertaken by the University of Ohio to determine the gene mutation, as well as other work separately by the UK Boxer Breeder Council. Mortality due to infection increases significantly with increases in inbreeding. The breed is particularly predisposed to mast cell tumours, a cancer of the immune system. Because of their brachycephalic heads, they do not do well with high heat or humidity, and common sense should prevail when exercising a Boxer in these conditions. See also: Dog food Boxers need plenty of exercise, which means their diet should be high in quality calories. The main source of these calories should be lean animal protein, which include lean chicken, turkey, lamb, and fish. They sometimes appear at dog agility or dog obedience trials and flyball events. These strong and intelligent animals have also been used as service dogs, guide dogs for the blind, therapy dogs, police dogs in K9 units, and occasionally herding cattle or sheep. The versatility of Boxers was recognized early on by the military, which has used them as valuable messenger dogs, pack carriers, and attack and guard dogs in times of war. Notable Boxers[ edit ] Punch and Judy were awarded the Dickin Medal for conspicuous gallantry or devotion to duty while serving in a military conflict.
Rottweilers In general, teacup and toy dogs, as well as short-muzzle breeds also known as brachycephalic breeds are more prone to cherry eye. Most affected dogs will have their first cherry eye appear under two years old, although the condition can occur in one or both eyes at any age. The condition is not contagious to people or other animals. Symptoms of cherry eye in dogs The main symptom of cherry eye in dogs is the swollen and protruding third eyelid resembling a cherry pit. In some cases, the eye itself will seem red, itchy, or swollen. Dogs with cherry eye may produce a thick mucus discharge from the eye. Other conditions, such as a foreign body, eye infections, or trauma to the eye, can also cause similar symptoms. Dogs with cherry eye may give themselves corneal scratches if their eye is itchy and they are scratching their face with their paws or objects around the house. Treatment for cherry eye in dogs Cherry eye is usually cured with surgery. However, in more severe cases where the dog has had the condition for a long time or the tear gland is no longer functional, or when the surgical replacement procedure described above has been done previously and has failed, the gland might need to be removed. The chances for full recovery are highest if the procedure is performed as soon as the condition occurs before the gland becomes enlarged or inflamed. If left untreated, cherry eye can cause eye infections and chronic dry eye also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca or KCS. However, the cost to treat cherry eye in dogs will depend on multiple factors, including how severely the eye is affected, the type of procedure, and the doctor performing it. Personal factors can also contribute to the cost of surgery. For instance, larger dogs require more anesthesia, which often results in an increase in price. If the condition has affected both eyes, the price will be higher. Pro Tip: Pet insurance can help cover the costs of medication and surgery for cherry eye. Recovery and prognosis After the surgery, your pet will need to wear a cone, also known as an Elizabethan collar or e-collar, to prevent them from rubbing their eye and disrupting the stitches. Vets usually also prescribe eye drops or medicated eye ointments, as well as oral antibiotics to keep the eye moist, prevent infections, and ensure that the eye heals properly. If the tear gland is surgically removed or if surgical treatment is not an option, your dog will likely need to use eye drops to keep the eye moist and healthy for the rest of their life. When it comes to recovery after surgery, the prognosis is very good. There might be inflammation for a week or two before the eye regains its normal appearance. Allow your dog to rest for a few days after the procedure and avoid swimming or bathing for about two weeks. It should be noted that dogs who are genetically predisposed to cherry eye are more likely to have a relapse. However, it is possible to prevent additional problems associated with this condition such as infections and dry eye by keeping the eye moist with adequate eye drops and treating any eye issues that may appear at the earliest opportunity. Key Takeaways Cherry eye, i. The condition can affect any dog but is especially common in toy and teacup breeds, as well as dogs with short muzzles. The list of breeds prone to cherry eye includes Pugs, Bulldogs, Bulldogs, Rottweilers, etc. Most dogs with cherry eye require surgery in order to put the gland back in place. Be sure to get in touch with your veterinarian as soon as possible if you think your four-legged friend has any eye problems, including cherry eye. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Actually, it can be rather worrying for their owners. Photo by Mia Anderson on Unsplash What does cherry eye in puppies look like? Okay, get ready for a visual. It can also look like the corner of the eye is bulging. Cherry eye makes itself quite visible in puppies, although sometimes it will start off small. This is the third eyelid protruding from the tear duct. Dry eyes — these are caused by a lack of tear production A discharge around the eye Excessive blinking Lots of pawing and scratching at the eye due to irritation What causes cherry eye? When this happens the gland causes the third eyelid to protrude and look like a red blob. Breed can be a contributing factor for cherry eye in puppies Some types of dogs such as Bulldogs and Spaniels seem to suffer more with cherry eye due to their skull, eye socket shape or ligaments in the eye, which may be weaker. Puppies are more susceptible to cherry eye than adult dogs Many cases of cherry eye occur in puppies under a year of age, poor little things. This is when the ligaments on the third eyelid are weakest, so the nicatins gland is able to push it out. Cherry eye in puppies can be caused by scratching or pawing If your puppy rubs or paws at their eyes, this can damage the nicatins gland and cause swelling that ends up in cherry eye. Photo by charlesdeluvio on Unsplash How can I help puppy swollen eyes? This will let you see whether the swelling is getting better or worse, and will give you a sign of what to do next. Check their eye in case there is anything stuck in it. Sometimes foreign things like grass seeds can cause a swollen eye, but you can carefully remove this at home. Is your puppy tired and has a bloodshot eye? Yep, not the same as cherry eye. Puppies need to sleep a lot! Let your puppy get some rest and take things easy. Remove any collars or harnesses that your puppy wears indoors so that they can relax. Nothing more annoying than a clinking collar every time you move. Avoid wrestling-type physical games or playing with other dogs until the swelling has gone down. You can use a saline wash to clean the swollen eye, but make sure to use plenty of treats so that your puppy feels as comfortable as possible. A puppy swollen eye can be caused by an allergic reaction. Using an appropriate dose of antihistamine is suggested for this. Photo by Kindred Hues Photography on Unsplash Your vet will be the best person to tell you whether a home treatment, like the ones we suggested above, are suitable or not. They may also discuss surgery with you to prevent the cherry eye from recurring or want to refer you to a dog ophthalmologist. If your puppy is experiencing any other problems like cloudy eyes, watery eyes, scratching or itching at their ears then we hope our guides help you learn a bit more about them. 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. Mastiffs Terriers In general, breeds with shorter muzzles many of whom have brachycephalic syndrome as well as toy breeds and teacup dogs tend to be more likely to experience cherry eye than their longer-nosed, full-sized counterparts. And young dogs—puppies under a year old—are most susceptible as well. Early cherry eye in dogs is fairly easy to spot, Vygantas says. This bulge is typically in the corner nearest the nose and similar in shape and color to a cherry pit, hence the nickname. The condition can occur in one or both eyes. The good news is early-stage cherry eye in dogs isn't painful. In fact, your pup probably won't even know something is wrong. But over time, it can make your dog prone to dry eye and infections , so it shouldn't be ignored. The tear gland in that third eyelid is responsible for about 33 to 66 percent of your dog's overall tear production. When prolapse occurs, the tear duct doesn't function normally. For healthy eyes and overall comfort, it's critical that this gland is preserved and reattached to its proper place. If you suspect your dog has cherry eye, it's important to see your vet as soon as possible. While not a medical emergency, the condition can cause health concerns over time. Left untreated, cherry eye can result in damage to the tear duct and cause chronic dry eye. The gland may also become more swollen over time and restrict blood flow. As swelling makes your dog more uncomfortable, he'll be tempted to scratch or paw at the eye, increasing the likelihood of damage and infection. At your initial vet visit, your veterinarian might prescribe dog-safe eye drops for cherry eye to reduce inflammation. These drops can also provide much-needed moisture for comfort and eye health. But eye drops are not a cure for cherry eye. Usually, the vet-recommended treatment for cherry eye in dogs is surgery to preserve the eyelid. Your vet should be able to preserve and correctly reposition the tear gland with a simple procedure. While it might be tempting to try and avoid surgery, when it comes to cherry eye, ointment and topical treatments won't address the root problem and your pup will likely need surgery later anyway. According to Vygantas, once the gland is out of position, it's unlikely to resolve itself without surgery. Still, even minor surgery can be stress-inducing as a pet owner. But rest assured: cherry eye surgery recovery is typically short and sweet. In fact, most pups are back to normal within a couple of weeks. In the meantime, your pup will have a follow-up appointment or two with her vet to check the surgical site. She'll also need to wear an e-collar aka the cone of shame during recovery to keep her eye safe from scratching, pawing, and infection. Cherry eye is not life-threatening, and the vast majority of dogs go on to live full lives with healthy eyes. If you're wondering if you should get a dog who has cherry eye—either from a rescue or a breeder—there are a few considerations to keep in mind. First, it's important to remember cherry eye is not contagious, so it poses no risk to you or other pets. However, surgical treatment of cherry eye can be expensive. Costs range from several hundred to thousands of dollars depending on the breed, your location, and your veterinarian's rates for surgical procedures. And, since as many as 45 percent of dogs that experience cherry eye in one eye will eventually have it in the other, you could very well end up doubling your expenses. The good news is, the simple cherry eye surgery should solve the problem for good. The most common complication of this surgery is the breakdown of the suture line and subsequent re-prolapse of the gland," Vygantas explains. If the suture does fail, another surgery is likely necessary. Still, Vygantas stresses that the condition is not an indicator of poor health or of other underlying conditions. If your pup has cherry eye, there's no reason she can't enjoy a long, happy, healthy life post-treatment. Is it Possible to Prevent Cherry Eye? Unfortunately, there's no way to keep your dog from developing cherry eye. But there are ways to give your pup the best chance at good health. Feed her a good diet and provide lots of exercise to maintain a healthy weight. Schedule an appointment with your vet to make sure she stays up-to-date on all preventative care and vaccinations , and reach out to your vet if you have any concerns about your pup's eye health. Was this page helpful?
Here are a quick overview and the 9 most important factors to keep in mind. After all, they are all bulldogs, right? Not exactly. So, what do you need to know before getting a French Bulldog puppy? What are the key characteristics that make French Bulldogs special? French Bulldogs share a lot of characteristics with their larger English Bulldog cousins. Like all other bulldogs, Frenchies are great with kids! Their short legs and front-heavy bodies make them the worst swimmers in the canine world! They grow up to 11 or 13 inches on average 28 to 33 cm and they rarely weigh more than 8 pounds 13 kg. They have adorably large bat-like ears — this is the signature trait of Frenchies, their hilarious ears. Fortunately, many American breeders insisted on continuing to breed Frenchies with their breed-defining bat-like ears. Longer lifespan. While, as a larger breed, English Bulldogs live up to 8 to 10 years on average, Frenchies live a bit more. On average, a French Bulldog can live up to 10 or 12 years. And, with good care and a bit of luck, they can live more than that too! As you can see, French Bulldogs are not just miniature versions of their larger English Bulldogs predecessors. So, what exactly do you need to know before getting a French Bulldog puppy? Here are the 9 most important points: 1. Many breeds require lots of outdoor time — walking, running, playing, etc. So, which group do French Bulldogs belong to? They fall right in the middle. They are usually fine with two quick walks outside per day and spending the rest of their time at home. Not only do Frenchies prefer to stay at home, but they also should never be allowed close to a swimming pool, river, lake, the sea, or even a full bath. So, even during your brief outdoor walks, make sure that you avoid large bodies of water. And if you have a swimming pool in your backyard — getting a French Bulldog might be a bad idea. Frenchies are incredibly affectionate dogs. French Bulldogs are very playful and active dogs which makes them great for young kids who also need frequent interactions and playtime. Simply put, if you have a Frenchie and a baby under the same roof, you can be sure that neither of them will be bored. Frenchies are downright adorable — their short snout and large bat-like years are traits most kids love with a passion! And they are happy to use their vocabulary every day too! Frenchies will still alert you whenever they perceive danger, of course. This makes Frenchies a fantastic breed for condo and apartment dwellers as the Frenchie is unlikely to bother your neighbors or landlord. There are multiple reasons for this: Frenchies have very short coats. Not to mention that the little time they need to spend outdoors is usually spent just running on the clean pavement instead of rolling in the mud like certain other breeds like to do. Frenchies shed their coats seasonally or only twice per year. French Bulldogs require nothing more than occasional grooming. Still, keep in mind that Frenchies are not hypoallergenic. Come up with new games and new toys from time to time — intelligent dogs can still love their old toys and games but they need new ones. However, all bulldogs were initially used for bull-baiting which was a complex and physically-demanding job that required lots of quick thinking. If you work out of the house and you have a Frenchie you absolutely have to give your dog extra attention before going out. Leaving a hyper-active and easily-bored dog alone for an extended period of time is a big No-No. Or, that he or she gets through them quickly and easily. Please keep in mind that these are estimates to give you a general idea of how tall your French Bulldog puppy will be. At what age is a French Bulldog fully grown? A French Bulldog will reach close to their full weight around eight to twelve months old and maximum height around nine to twelve months of age. French Bulldogs will continue to slowly fill out anywhere between nine to fifteen months of age. They are considered fully grown around 12 to 14 months old, but may continue to put on muscle until they are two years old. How big should a 6-month-old French Bulldog be? A male French Bulldog will weigh between 17 and 22 pounds at six months old and have an average weight of .A six-month-old female French Bulldog will weigh between 13 and 20 pounds with an average weight of 17 pounds. Both male and female French Bulldogs will stand around seven to nine inches on average. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. French Bulldogs usually reach their full height when they are between nine and twelve months old. As short dogs, French Bulldogs barely double in height from three months of age to 1 year old. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, this is a telltale sign that they are still growing! What is the size of a full-grown French Bulldog? Most female French Bulldogs will weigh about 17 to 24 pounds, while male French Bulldogs weigh about 20 to 28 pounds. Both male and female French Bulldogs will stand 11 to 13 inches tall and have a muscular, heavy-boned build. How do I make sure my French Bulldog is healthy? As a purebred dog breed, French Bulldogs are more prone to genetic health problems. In particular, French Bulldogs are predisposed to skin problems, ear infections, diarrhea, eye problems, spinal injury and respiratory distress caused by their brachycephalic syndrome. Brachycephalic syndrome causes them to have a flat nose and shorter esophagus, creating a heightened risk of breathing problems. The Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that about half of French Bulldogs have significant breathing problems and .In addition to this, French Bulldogs are prone to obesity , which can lead to type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis, disc disease, high blood pressure, heart disease, and further respiratory issues. Pro Tip: Compare pet insurance plans to save on veterinary expenses and ensure that the cost of care never interferes with the essential treatment your pet deserves. Most French Bulldogs do well with a leisurely walk or active playtime. Be careful with taking your French Bulldog out in hot weather though as their brachycephalic syndrome makes them prone to overheating and heat stroke. As a general rule temperatures over 80 degrees should be avoided for French Bulldogs. As loving pet parents, we never want to think the worst could happen to our furbaby. However, we must prepare for both everyday costs, like vaccinations and veterinarian appointments, and emergencies. Dog Insurance is here to help you with emergency costs, as well as expected costs like veterinarian care see the wellness options many pet insurance plans offer. Only .Pet insurance can help you provide your pup with quality routine and emergency care. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Key Takeaways On average, French Bulldogs weigh between pounds at age one, with inches in height. French Bulldogs stop growing around months old, so pet owners should be mindful of weight gain after their first birthday. As a breed, French Bulldogs are exceptionally prone to obesity, which can worsen breathing problems and lead to a number of secondary health concerns. Use our French Bulldog growth chart to monitor your puppy's weight and ensure they stay within a healthy range. Pet insurance promotes positive veterinary care and offsets the cost of services should your Frenchie get sick or injured at any point in life. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. People ask if the French bulldog and the Pug are related but the Frenchie originated in France way back in the s, from English ancestry, whilst the Pug comes from Chinese origins. Those cute ears! And other characteristics Around , the lace workers from Nottingham were forced out by the Industrial Revolution. They moved to France, taking along one such dog, the miniature bulldog. Americans also started importing French Bulldogs for a breeding program in .At a dog show, Mr. George Raper chose winners who had "rose ears". Rose ears were folded at the tip, as with the standard type Bulldogs. All the controversy around the ears sparked off the French Bulldog Club of America. But as he gets bigger, he is not afraid to alert his owners to danger. They are spunky too, cute the way they communicate with yips, gargles, howls , and yawning to get your attention. This all means that the Frenchie loves to be affectionate and playful. They are stressful little dogs, so CBD is a very good option for these cute little dogs. Their life expectancy is around years. Sold out Training Even though they are a small breed, they have a stubborn streak in them, making them a bit more difficult to train than other dog breeds. The main types of training for a French bulldog would be socialization training and also potty training. They are inclined to be a bit standoffish when it comes to meeting new people and they can even get a bit aggressive towards other dogs. Check out these training tips for your French bulldog. If he walks to the new person and seems happy and confident, give him treats, and also allow the new person to give him a treat. If your dog is fearful of a new person, allow him to calm down without any force — dogs know people far better than humans do! Sometimes the little Frenchie can be a bit destructive as they enjoy chewing. Be aware of this before you buy a Frenchie. They can get bored, using chewing as their way of exploration. If you want this type of dog, you need to know that all your personal belongings must be out of the way. Being small, they can get onto tables and reach things like your phone and remote controls, etc. Be warned. Provide him with his own toys , keeping the ones with squeakers away, because Frenchies can choke on those. The harness offers more support too and does not strain as much as a collar does. Swimming is not really for this little doggie. Take caution with the Frenchie near water because due to their short-snout respiratory issues and their thin, short little legs, they are more at risk of drowning. A Frenchie needs to have his toenails trimmed every couple of weeks or so. Remember to brush his teeth to keep them healthy and breath fresh. His ears need to be clean too, remembering the delicate wrinkles on his face. They can be pretty deep, these folds, and can be a breeding ground for bacteria- they will need cleaning around twice a week. Just use a damp cloth to wipe the folds out, making sure they are perfectly dry. Otherwise, though, generally washing once a month should be enough. Health issues Digestive issues Digestive issues can cause Frenchies to be constipated. That means you need to provide your dog with top quality foods. The spine The spine requires special attention. This breed often has abnormally developed vertebrae of the discs of the back and even IVDD. This can cause this special little dog to become disabled. Surgery and repair can cost thousands of dollars — also x-rays will need to be taken. It is common in the brachycephalic breeds such as a French bulldog. Eye problems A Frenchie can experience common eye problems and it is not uncommon for them to suffer from eye allergies that irritate their eyes. Why are they so expensive? Well, to begin with, these little dogs need to be artificially inseminated in most cases, and the little females usually have a C-section at birth as it is rather dangerous to give birth naturally. All these things cost a lot of money. Grant loves writing about furry little goofballs and aims to educate pet parents about anything and everything regarding their dogs. Recommended Articles. Their rise in popularity began as far back as the mids when their ancestors, toy-sized English Bulldogs, gained prominence in England during the height of the English Industrial Revolution, according to the American Kennel Club AKC. From there, these dogs found their way to the French countryside where, over the next few decades, cross-breeding with other small dogs, most likely terriers and Pugs , led to the development of the breed as it exists today. Today, they are consistently ranked among the top 10 most popular dog breeds, as reported by the AKC. This trait does not makes them hard to train—far from it, she explains. In fact, starting early is essential in all aspects of Frenchie care. Wylie says. Because of these issues, brachycephalic dogs need to work harder to breathe than other dogs and have an easier time breathing through their mouth than their nose. Due to the potential for breathing problems, Dr. Wylie recommends pet parents use a harness, like the Puppia soft dog harness , when walking a Frenchie. Also, if you want a quiet sleeper, a French Bulldogs might not be your ideal pets. Their unique airways make them prolific snorers! Their lack of aquatic prowess is related to both their brachycephalic features, which make it difficult to keep their noses out of the water and breathe while dog paddling, as well as their overall barrel body shape, which is heavy and difficult for their small legs to support. Additionally, according to Crestojo, Frenchies are prone to becoming overweight. There are foods out there specially formulated for Frenchies, like Frenchies by Royal Canin , to help maintain a healthy weight while ensuring your dog has a balanced diet. Despite the challenges that come with a brachycephalic dog, Frenchies really are great pets. Learn more about Frenchies: Need a French name for your Frenchie? Browse our list of top French dog names. By Kate Hughes. Ideally they need owners around all day. Common health problems in French Bulldogs French Bulldogs are playful and fun-loving dogs who love spending time with their owners. Sadly, like so many other purebred dogs, they are at risk of certain conditions relating to their breed. If you are thinking of buying a French Bulldog puppy , make sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening to reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by certain conditions. Frenchies are a flat-faced breed, which can often cause breathing problems and means they overheat quickly especially when they exercise in warmer weather. Some of the conditions Frenchies may develop include: Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS — this can cause severe breathing problems and is caused by their shorter faces. Parents should be screened before breeding. Luxating patellas — where the kneecaps slipping temporarily out of place. Dental problems — shorter faced dogs often have crowded teeth with can cause dental problems. A range of eye problems, including cataracts there is screening for this. Back problems such as Intervertebral disc disease — where the discs that provide cushioning between the vertebrae back bones bulge or burst, pressing on nerves in the spine. Skin conditions — particularly skin fold dermatitis where the skin in their wrinkles gets inflamed and sore or even infected. Hyperuricosuria — a condition where stones or crystals can form in urine causing infections, difficulty passing urine or blood in urine. If you want to minimise the risk of your dog getting problems due to exaggerated features, you can read our advice on choosing a pedigree dog. Caring for your French Bulldog Frenchies are loving dogs, known for being quite laid-back and happy to fit in with family life. French Bulldogs can be lower maintenance because they tend to prefer shorter walks, but they definitely have huge characters and personalities and will do anything for a bit of fuss and attention! French Bulldogs and barking As with any breed, your Frenchie is likely to make noise. How much they make is completely down to the individual, their training and personality. Training and socialisation French Bulldogs are eager to please their owners which can make them easy to train, but are also known to be strong-willed at times. They are a sensitive breed, so respond best to positive, reward-based training which needs to be started from an early age. This will help them grow into confident adults and help their laid-back nature shine through. They thrive off company and so could develop separation anxiety if left alone. Exercise Although Frenchies are thought to be less high maintenance than some breeds when it comes to exercise, they still love to keep busy and exercising is a huge part of that. Your French Bulldog will need up to an hour of exercise every day. This should be split into a few shorter walks, with time to play off-lead in a secure area and have a good sniff around. As a flat-faced breed, French Bulldogs can overheat and struggle to breathe really quickly, especially in warmer weather. Make sure you can recognise the signs of heatstroke in your dog. Early mornings and later in the evenings would be better times to go for a walk in the summer. Due to the extra rolls of skin around their face, French Bulldogs are at risk of developing something called skin fold dermatitis. You can clean them with damp cotton wool pads but always make sure to dry them thoroughly after. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate French Bulldogs and children Frenchies are known for being pretty laid back and adaptable, so they tend to get along well with children of all ages which makes them popular family pets. Always supervise your dog with children and vulnerable adults. French Bulldogs do have a high prey drive. If they have grown up with a cat in the home, they will be fine with that cat but are likely to chase unfamiliar cats and smaller pets. You should always supervise your dog with family pets and introduce them slowly from a young age. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your Frenchie should be eating. You should feed them a good quality, commercially available, complete dog food. We usually recommend splitting their daily allowance into two meals. If you give your dog the occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily allowance. Flat-faced breeds such as Frenchies can suffer from reflux or struggle to swallow their food. Speak to your vet for more information about how to manage this at home. Try to feed your dog at similar times every day as they like routine. Remember to leave a gap between eating and exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet higher standards. Set-up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around six months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. PDSA Pet Insurance Fun facts An early version of the breed were used by lace makers in the UK shortly before the industrial revolution to warm their laps while they worked. French Bulldogs are known for their big, bat-like ears. They are lovable dogs who fit easily into family life, but come with a lot of extra responsibility and potentially higher healthcare costs. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a French Bulldog. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in French Bulldogs are also out there. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary screening tests, health checks and vaccinations.
In the first half of the twentieth century, German cavalry officer Max von Stephanitz, created the German Shepherd Dog using a variety of German sheepdogs as his foundation stock. Initially, color was not considered as long as the dog demonstrated working ability. During the late 30's, however, the white color fell into disfavor. There were, however, always breeders who appreciated the beauty of the white dogs and who continued to breed them. Because of their exclusion from most German Shepherd Dog breeding programs, the whites rather quickly evolved into a distinct type, and eventually into a separate breed. Character The White Shepherd has a distinct personality marked by self-confidence. The White Shepherd is poised, but when the situation demands, is eager and alert, ready to serve in any capacity. The White Shepherd is highly intelligent, energetic, hard working, curious, and loyal. The character of the White Shepherd is gentler and mellower than that of the German Shepherd Dog, but when necessary, he is very willing and capable to protect his family. Temperament White Shepherds demonstrate both herding and protective instincts. The White Shepherd will attempt to perform the task of herding on anything and everything that moves. With those he knows, the White Shepherd is open and friendly. With strangers, he is observant and cautious but not apprehensive. The White Shepherd thrives on human interaction from their family and does not like to be left alone for extended periods of time. They are playful, enthusiastic and eager to please. Because of their intense loyalty and love of children they make outstanding family dogs. Care The White Shepherd sheds bits of hair constantly with seasonal heavy shedding. They require daily brushing to minimize loose hair. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary; over bathing can cause skin irritation from oil depletion. Check ears and trim nails regularly. White Shepherds may be prone to such health issues as elbow and hip dysplasia, bloat, allergies, and digestive problems. Coat The White Shepherd has a weather-resistant double coat. The outer coat can be short or long and is dense and straight. The undercoat is short, thick, and fine in texture. At the neck, the coat may be slightly longer and heavier, particularly in males. The hair on the back of the legs is slightly longer than on the front. The coat on the rump and underside of the tail is longer and thicker than the body coat. The head and ears are covered with a smooth, somewhat softer hair while the hair covering the legs and paws has a harsher texture. This breed continuously sheds with seasonal heavy shedding. Training The White Shepherd requires early socialization and obedience training. They will not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. This breed is obedient, eager to please and quick to learn. Training must be done with respect, firmness, fairness, reward, and consistency. Activity This breed is happiest when given a job to do. They require daily exercise and enjoy leashed walks, family play sessions, and a large safely fenced area to romp and run freely in. Some may do okay in an apartment or condominium dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise, stimulation, and attention. However, white-coated German Shepherds were removed from the breed standard in so these pale-coated dogs could no longer be registered with the club. The outline of the White Shepherd is made up of smooth curves rather than angles. Gender differences are readily apparent. Working dogs are not to be penalized under any conditions for scars or blemishes that are due to occupational injuries. The White Shepherd has a distinct personality marked by self-confidence. The White Shepherd is poised, but when the situation demands, is eager and alert, ready to serve in any capacity. White Shepherds demonstrate both herding and protective instincts. With those he knows, the White Shepherd is open and friendly. With strangers, he is observant and may be somewhat aloof but not apprehensive. Timidity in a mature dog or aggressive behavior is not typical of this breed and should be severely penalized. The organization go on to add that Echo Dogs provide them with a safe, secure foster home, where they receive necessary veterinary care and behavioral training and match them with families that are committed to providing a safe, loving home environment for their canine family member. Other then that if you are looking for a breeder make sure you do some research. I have grown up with the standard colour German Shepherd my entire 26 years of life and when I got my first White German Shepherd I did notice a slight difference. I made sure to do my research on the breed, what the dog needs. I do not recommend getting any type of German Shepherd if you are not ready for the hard work they require. They are very hard work sometimes and very stubborn but also so so rewarding. Be smart about the dog you choose to bring home and make sure their personality matches your lifestyle. Alyssa explained roughly how much she paid for her White German Shepherd called Lumi. The cost of White Shepherds can vary quite a bit, especially when taking location into consideration. Other factors to consider are exercise which could be a pro or a con. Will you have enough time to give your White German Shepherd sufficient exercise or will you need the help of a dog walker. Do you work at an office? Anything Else To Consider? You could always start your search for a White German Shepherd by visiting a local rescue organization or finding a dedicated White German Shepherd rescue such as Echo Dogs. If you are contemplating making the white German Shepherd part of your family, you may wonder whether they are a mix or purebred. White German Shepherds are purebred. They are the progeny of the first German Shepherd bred in Germany in the late s and developed to herd sheep and other livestock. Often, herders preferred the white coat, as it was easy to recognize them from the darker European wolves. They were not bred to be companion animals; instead, they were bred to be working dogs. Their olfactory scent, intellect, work ethic, strength, bravery, versatility, loyalty, and speed made them ideal farm dogs. They were responsible for not only herding but defending flocks from predators. The German Shepherd breed quickly grew in popularity before the s and spread to other countries. It is said that the white-coated German Shepherd was bred specifically by the kennels of the then Queen of Hapsburg, Alsace-Lorraine, Austria, as she wanted them to match the white horses that pulled her carriage. Sadly, the purebred white German Shepherd began to be considered a flaw by the Nazi regime in the s, who saw the white coat as an undesirable characteristic and blamed it for causing coat paling across all colors and diseases. They were subsequently excluded from breeding and disqualified from the breed standard. These white-coated dogs have descendants who can trace their lineage back to the white GSDs of the early s. Many myths exist about white-coated German Shepherds and the gene that determines their coat color. When some people see them, they think they are an albino. But are they? White German Shepherds are not albino. Albinos lack all pigment, whereas white German Shepherds have black noses, black pigment around their mouths, black paw pads, and brown eyes. Their eye rims and nails also have dark skin. The white gene is recessive and is only responsible for coat color. Although the albino can exist in German Shepherds, it is extremely rare. This genetic mutation causes a complete absence of pigmentation. Most albino dogs will have skin that appears pink around their eyes, giving the appearance of pink eyes when their eyes will usually be blue in color. You will also be able to spot the pink nose easily. What Causes a White German Shepherd? German Shepherds with all-white coats have always been present in litters. However, now that you know they are not albinos, what exactly causes their beautiful white coats? The gene is only related to coat color and has nothing to do with health or temperament. The easiest way to explain it is that the white gene is a recessive gene that works independently of all other color genes. If a dog has two copies of that gene switched on, the white hides the color. To guarantee an all-white litter, two white GSDs will need to be bred. Are White German Shepherds Rare? The discrimination against the white German Shepherd by Nazi Germany quickly spread to breeders elsewhere. Breeders also wrongly believed they were inferior and had a genetic fault. White German Shepherds are rarer than the colored variety as only two white German Shepherds are guaranteed to produce all-white puppies. However, they are not too rare, and if two non-whites both have the white recessive gene, a small percentage of the litter may be white. A reputable and experienced breeder will confidently breed two white German Shepherds to produce a litter of purebred, fluffy white German Shepherd puppies, as long as the demand is there. The main purpose of the American Kennel Club is to maintain a pedigree registry of purebred dogs. However, there is often confusion around the white German Shepherd, albeit purebred. The confusion is that white dogs are disqualified from the conformation ring, but they can still participate in herding, tracking, and obedience. The official breed standard prefers strong, rich colors. Although the UK Kennel Club recognizes the white German Shepherd, they state they are highly undesirable for conformation. This is where things start to get a little complicated! Allow me to elaborate… Advances in science proved that the white recessive gene did not cause albinoism. Scientists also proved that the white German Shepherd was not accountable for any other health issues or the paling of color-coated dogs. In the late s and s, supporters of the white German Shepherd Dog began to form their own breed clubs and registries. So theoretically speaking, the white German Shepherd and the White Shepherd are now considered different breeds recognized by different organizations with separate breed standards: The white German Shepherd is recognized by the American Kennel Club although it is disqualified from showing and the UK Kennel Club. In North America, opinions about whether the purebred white German Shepherd should be considered a different breed from the White Shepherd are still divided. Apart from the color of their fur, the white German Shepherd Dog looks almost identical to any other breed variety. White German Shepherd puppies do not change color. The same goes for black German Shepherds, whose color is also caused by a recessive gene. If pups are born all black, they will remain all black. The white German Shepherd is truly a stunning-looking dog, and often heads will turn to look at its gorgeous coat and features. White German Shepherds have the same appearance as other varieties, apart from their all-white coats. They are medium-large sized with a muscular and athletic build. The GSD is double-coated, having a low-set bushy tail. A striking feature is their erect ears, with a noble head and a long muzzle. Fully grown white German Shepherd males are typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while females are generally 22 to 24 inches tall. When fully grown, males weigh 66—88 lbs 30—40 kg , and females weigh 49—71 lbs 22—32 kg. However, remember that each dog is unique, and sizes can vary. For example, my female is very tall and weighs 88lbs 40kg. The white German Shepherd has a double-coated, weather-resistant coat that is either medium or long in length. The undercoat is thick, and the outer coat has coarse, straight, or slightly wavy hairs that lie close to the body. White German Shepherds are good family dogs sharing the same temperament as the colored variety. They are intelligent, protective, loyal, affectionate, and easy to train. They will get along with children, other dogs, and even cats if introduced to them when young and properly trained. While the white German Shepherd makes a good family dog, they are high-energy, and you need to have lots of time and enthusiasm to socialize, exercise, and train them. Nonetheless, they are excellent with children and other family pets, especially if raised with them. The breed is keen to please its owners and enjoys having a job to do. This makes them enjoyable and easy to train. Basic obedience training should begin at a young age, preferably around eight weeks old, when you first bring the pup into your home. This is due to their undying love and loyalty. They need to be a part of the family and are prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. White German Shepherds, like all varieties, are very active — exercise is essential to keep them out of mischief. They need at least two hours of regular physical activity every day. This should include various activities besides walking, such as hiking, off-leash running, flyball, agility, frisbee, and fetch. Mental stimulation is also essential, which includes playing games and having interactive or puzzle toys. This toy will keep your doggo entertained for hours and gets thousands of positive reviews. Without regular exercise and interaction, German Shepherds will display unwanted behavior such as chewing, biting, scratching, digging, whining, or barking. They can live outside but prefer to be inside with their family. Although they can do okay in a small house or apartment, a house with a yard is preferred, where they can run and burn off some energy. Allow me to share my experience; Willow is my first dog and is fantastic for all the family. Are White German Shepherds Protective? German Shepherds are often used in the police, military, search and rescue, and service or therapy dogs due to their versatility, bravery, loyalty, boundless energy, and easy trainability. But do they make good guard dogs, and are they protective? White German Shepherds are protective due to their natural guarding instincts. When faced with strangers, they can become nervous or suspicious and watch over their family, especially children. Early socialization and training are important to prevent any over-aggressiveness. Remember, they were originally bred to herd and protect livestock, so protecting their family is an instinctive characteristic of the breed. Are White German Shepherds Aggressive? There is a range of myths and misunderstandings that surround the GSD, no matter their color. In particular, many of these are based on fear, and culture or are caused due to inadequately trained dogs. This may cause you to wonder whether white German Shepherds are aggressive, especially if you want to raise one with your family. White German Shepherds are not aggressive if they are socialized early and are well-trained. They can become aggressive if provoked or mistreated. Since the GSD is often used for jobs that require them to be aggressive, it seems they have developed a reputation for being aggressive. They are large, athletic, and muscular dogs often used as guard dogs or in the police and military due to these characteristics and their high intelligence and protective nature. White German Shepherds can be trained to be aggressive towards strangers or certain individuals. However, a well-raised and socialized white German Shepherd has no reason to become aggressive. From someone that worked in law enforcement for almost 30 years and has experience with the breed, I can honestly say I never once saw an aggressive dog — except when commanded to be aggressive in the right situation. As long as you socialize and train your young pup, he will gain the trust and experience he needs with all new people and other dogs. This will allow him to react calmly and confidently to most situations he will encounter. Training a White German Shepherd is not any different from training other varieties of German Shepherds. White German Shepherds have the same temperament, intelligence, and trainability as other German Shepherd varieties. Here are some steps to help you train your White German Shepherd: Start with basic obedience training: Begin with basic commands like sit, stay, come, and heel. Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise to encourage good behavior. Socialize your White German Shepherd: Expose your dog to different people, animals, and environments to help them become well-adjusted and confident. This can help prevent behavior problems like aggression and anxiety. Use positive reinforcement: Reward your White German Shepherd for good behavior with treats, praise, and playtime. Be consistent: Use the same commands and training techniques every time you work with your White German Shepherd. This will help them understand what is expected of them and prevent confusion. Use training aids: Consider using training aids like clickers, leashes, and collars to help reinforce good behavior and make training easier. Practice regularly: Consistent practice is key to successful training. Remember, training your White German Shepherd is a lifelong process. So, how much does a white German Shepherd cost on average? I obtained this price from the average of 4 breeders I contacted. Prices vary depending on various factors such as breeder reputation, demand, location, bloodline, litter size, and whether full breeding rights are included. These are the white German Shepherd breeders I contacted to get the prices of current litters. Some breeders will charge more if you want your pup to have AKC full breeding rights. Less - The White Shepherd is a medium-sized, well-balanced, muscular dog, slightly longer than tall, with a medium length, pure white coat, erect ears, and a low-set natural tail that normally reaches to the hock and is carried in a slight curve like a saber. The outline of the White Shepherd is made up of smooth curves rather than angles. Gender differences are readily apparent. Working dogs are not to be penalized under any conditions for scars or blemishes that are due to occupational injuries. The White Shepherd has a distinct personality marked by self-confidence. The breed is poised, but when the situation demands, they are eager, alert and ready to serve in any capacity. White Shepherds demonstrate both herding and protective instincts. They enjoy running, playing fetch or any activity with their human family. This is a joyful, active, intelligent and easy to train working dog with the ability to adapt and integrate to all kinds of social events and situations. Timidity in a mature dog or aggressive behavior is not typical of this breed. White Shepherds are very loyal and tend to be especially protective of the young of various species. With their playful and curious personalities, they make wonderful companions although some do have the tendency toward being quite vocal by exhibiting whining, grunting, moaning and sometimes howling. In the first half of the twentieth century, German cavalry officer Max von Stephanitz, created the German Shepherd Dog using a variety of German sheepdogs as his foundation stock. Initially, color was not considered as long as the dog demonstrated working ability. During the late 30s, however, the white color fell into disfavor. There were, however, always breeders who appreciated the beauty of the white dogs and who continued to breed them. Because of their exclusion from most German Shepherd Dog breeding programs, the whites rather quickly evolved into a distinct type, and eventually into a separate breed. Temperament: Loyal, intelligent, protective, and energetic Coat: Double-coated Color: White or cream in color Long coat is more common A brief history of the White German Shepherd The White German Shepherd is a breed mentioned repeatedly in literature, where it dates back to before the birth of Jesus Christ. It was first mentioned by the Roman historian, Marcus Terentius in BC, who described the dog as an excellent dog for shepherds. Their white coat blended in with the school of sheep and makes it hard for wolves and coyotes to distinguish it. Their coat is either in white or cream. They are double-coated with the undercoat being dense and fine in texture, and the outer coat being thick and straight. This double coat keeps him warm and protected from the elements. The White German Shepherds have large erect ears and their eyes are either dark brown or black in color. Their noses are black as a puppy and gradually turn pink when they reach adulthood, while some remain black. The recessive gene that make them white The gene that makes the White German Shepherd white is a recessive gene. A white pup only occurs when both parents carry the recessive gene which makes them white. If two non-white dogs with recessive genes produce a litter, they too could have a small number of white pups, but only if the parent both carry the recessive gene. Temperament The White German Shepherds are said to be more sociable and calmer. They can make a great family pet, especially good with kids. The White German Shepherds are also known to be very affectionate with and protective of their families. They are very sociable, meaning they are not afraid to meet new people, dogs, or other animals. Like other German Shepherds, they also suffer from Elbow and Hip Dysplasia more frequently than other breeds of dogs. Yet, these are complications that are common in large dogs. During WWII, the White German Shepherds were blamed for all problems the colored German Shepherds were suffering from aggressive behavior, diseases, light-skinned — which was deemed as the consequence of too much inbreeding. But this is not true. Today, science and breeding history have proven that the white recessive gene masks the actual color of the dog, making them appear white, and brings along no health problems: in other words, the gene which causes white does not itself cause any other defect. They are otherwise genetically identical to colored German Shepherds. Further Questions 1. Is the White German Shepherd rare? A white pup only occurs when both parents carry the recessive gene, which makes them white. Given their rarity, White German Shepherd puppies are more expensive than colored ones. Although proven to be genetically identical to colored German Shepherds, the White German Shepherd is recognized as a separate breed. And there is no scientific proof showing white German Shepherds have poorer health or temperament than colored GSDs. Yet, the White German Shepherds do face the same health issues as the colored GSDs, the major concern being hip and elbow dysplasia. More on the White German Shepherd. Much of their history is shared with the more traditional German Shepherd Dogs that are brown and black in color. They were predominantly used as herding dogs in northern Germany during the late s and early s. During this time, white German Shepherds occurred merely by chance. It was commonly thought that these oddly colored shepherds were weaker and less healthy. Even Adolf Hitler held strong opinions about white German Shepherds. In fact, many breeders began selectively breeding in an attempt to get more all-white GSDs. They are much rarer than their two-toned counterparts but highly sought after. Still, they are surrounded by controversy. The damage done to their reputation during World War II continues, and many German Shepherd fans still prefer the dark coats. Some farmers and ranchers use White German Shepherds to help guard their flocks. While the two breeds likely share some common ancestors, they are indeed separate breeds. The current leading thinking is that German Shepherds have a single piece of their genetic code that determines whether they will be all white, all black, or patterned like the traditional GSD. It is a recessive gene. For this reason, obtaining a White German Shepherd is no longer left up to chance. Breeders will breed a white male to a white female and will know that any offspring will be white. Breeders and buyers of White German Shepherds prefer true, snow-white coats. However, coat colors actually range from pure white to a light cream color. Unlike a dog with albinism, a White German Shepherd has grey skin under his thick double coat. According to the American Kennel Club , German Shepherds reach anywhere from 24 to 26 inches in height, with males being just slightly taller. Females can weigh anywhere from 50 to 70 pounds, while males usually weigh 65 to 90 pounds. White German Shepherds are very strong dogs with alert, erect ears. They tend to be longer than they are tall, a feature that contributes to their incredible agility. German Shepherds have long been considered some of the strongest breed of dogs. German Shepherds can also assist firefighters in rescue work. Their keen insight can also help firefighters quickly find search and rescue targets, reflecting the importance of shepherd dogs in firefighting work. Some companies have even produced incredible firefighter challenge coins featuring German Shepherds as a reminder of the dedication of these hero dogs in rescue work. Still, generally speaking, White German Shepherds are affectionate and sociable. White German Shepherds have mostly been bred for companionship for families. As such, they are usually very friendly dogs who enjoy the company of both humans and other dogs, and who are gentle with children. Many owners of White German Shepherds find that their dogs are easy to train. However, GSDs of all colors are known to be headstrong dogs. White GSDs make great family pets. German Shepherds are very loyal, and even White German Shepherds have been known to protect their family at all costs. White German Shepherds are no more aggressive than any other dog, but they are very strong. Dogs who are well socialized, respected, and treated as a valued member of the family are far less likely to exhibit any aggressive behaviors. And of course, it is very important to teach children to respect all dogs. This is a generous lifespan, and longer than many other large breeds are expected to live. White German Shepherds that live as long as 14 years will have good genetics, and will be well taken care of by its family. Those who live less than 11 years may have lower quality breeding, have common or uncommon health issues or have experienced trauma. Not only do dogs who are well taken care of live longer and happier lives, but they make better companions too! After two weeks after its final inoculations, your German Shepherd puppy will be allowed to walk on the ground outside or begin visiting friends and family. One of the best things you can do for your new puppy is to socialize him or her. Carefully introduce your new White German Shepherd to as many adults, children, and other animals as you possibly can. Dogs who are well socialized are less likely to exhibit human or dog aggression later in life. Grooming White German Shepherds can be long-haired or short-haired. Grooming your White German Shepherd is also the same process, regardless of whether your pet is long-haired or short-haired. All German Shepherd dogs have an insulating undercoat that keeps them warm in colder months. GSDs tend to shed a lot, but during the spring and summer, their shedding increases as they lose their undercoat. Brushing your White German Shepherd at least twice a week with a stiff-bristle brush or shedding tool can help with the shedding. Bathe your White German Shepherd one a month at a maximum to avoid removing essential oils in its coat. Too many baths can also lead to skin dryness and extreme irritation. If you have a long-haired White German Shepherd, you will want to invest in professional grooming more frequently. A professional groomer will also clean your GSDs ears and glands, and will trim their nails. They have a ton of energy, so it is important that GSD owners allow their dogs plenty of opportunity to work both their mind and muscles. Dogs who are not allowed a sufficient amount of exercise will find other, more destructive ways to spend their energy. Usually, these more destructive ways involve injury to household objects, the dog himself, or even humans. You will want to take your White German Shepherd for a walk or run at least once a day. Sniffing on his walk will allow your White German Shepherd to exercise his clever brain. Other ways to exercise your White German Shepherd include hiking, a day at a doggy daycare, or even swimming at a lake or in a backyard pool. Avoid feeding your White German Shepherd table scraps and other human foods. Any food you buy for your White German Shepherd should be dry. Dry food encourages teeth to form solidly, and even acts as a natural toothbrush of sorts. This scary, but still uncommon, the problem is when the airway no longer opens wide enough for the dog to properly inhale. Some studies have been done to see if there is a link between the white gene of their coat and spontaneous laryngeal paralysis, but much more research is needed before anything can be concluded. Sadly, German Shepherds of all colors are prone to some other serious health issues. Most of these issues are inheritable, and reinforce the importance of careful and thoughtful breeding. The most common health problems for White German Shepherds are hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Dysplasia is a malformation of the bone at the joint. In its mild form, it can cause some pain and limping. However, if it is allowed to worsen, it will likely lead to very painful arthritis. Other issues affecting White German Shepherds include degenerative myelopathy, heart disease, autoimmune thyroiditis, and eye disorders. Some White German Shepherd owners report skin issues as a common ailment. Fortunately, skin issues are usually treatable through a careful diet, finding alternatives to bathing swimming, for example , and vet-prescribed help. The price of a White GSD puppy will vary based on gender, eye color, breeder reputation, and of course, overall demand. A purebred German Shepherd that is pure white in color will cost more than a mixed breed, or a purebred German Shepherd that is more beige in color. It is very, very important to purchase your puppy from a reputable breeder. Reputable breeders will prioritize breeding healthier dogs. They also contribute less to the massive issue of the unwanted pet population because they breed just one to two times per year. These striking animals are known to be very loyal, and make excellent companion dogs for families with children. Though they are vulnerable to some of the same health issues as standard German Shepherds, White German Shepherds can live up to 14 years when given the right care and attention. Unfortunately, Jessup developed serious allergies to many different types of dog foods and ingredients when she was just a puppy. Meanwhile, Brody could eat seemingly anything and carry on as healthy as could be. Sarah spent hours of time researching and testing different foods and brands before finding something that worked for little Jessup. She wants Dog Food Care to simplify this experience for future dog-parents who face food allergy or tolerance issues of their own. Dog Food Care will never accept payments, bonuses, or gifts in exchange for a positive review. All Rights Reserved. Not to be confused with albino dogs, these stunning dogs have a pure white coat and a great temperament. They make excellent family pets for the right owners. You will have to go to a breeder to get your White German Shepherd puppies. A typically colored German Shepherd would be less expensive. White German Shepherds appear randomly in normal German Shepherd litters or by intentional breeding practices. The Nazis erroneously labeled the White German Shepherd as albino German Shepherds, and thus of inferior genetics, which was not true in the slightest. The breed is still the subject of some controversy, however. Despite the fact that the White German Shepherd is simply a German Shepherd who is white in color, in some circles, White German Shepherds are recognized as a separate breed from standard German Shepherds. Male dogs grow to the height of 24 to 26 inches tall and weigh approximately 65 to 85 lbs. Female German Shepherds are slightly smaller. They typically stand between 22 to 24 inches in height and weigh between 55 to 70 lbs. Both male and female German Shepherds have an expected lifespan between 9 and 13 years. White Shepherds are known for their erect ears, pale skin, a weather-resistant double coat, and a low set, natural tail. A white GSD usually has brown eyes and a black or pink nose. In both cases, for Black German Shepherds and White German Shepherds, the dog carries two copies of the recessive gene in this case, the white gene. The white recessive gene must be present in two copies in order for the White Shepherd to have a pure white coat. Temperament The stunning White German Shepherd dog has a distinct personality marked by loyalty, intelligence, and protective instincts. Similar to a standard German Shepherd, the White Shepherds are known for their extremely high levels of intelligence. They are among the smartest dog breeds in the world and do best when they have a task or job to perform. This is when their self-confidence truly shines, even from a young age. They can make an excellent guard dog! They are energetic and require regular exercise. You should plan to devote at least one hour per day to off-leash running. They are not an aggressive dog breed, though they can be trained to be. This is not a smart decision and is not recommended. Health Problems White Shepherds face the same health issues that standard German Shepherds are privy to. A responsible breeder understands the genetics of the breed as well as the best ways to care for the White German Shepherd puppies before they are adopted. You may find breeders that exclusively breed White German Shepherds. This is largely due to the fact that most dog owners want to train their dog from puppyhood and establish the dog as part of the family from their puppyhood. As such, puppy prices tend to be higher. Most breed clubs simply recognize the white coat as a color variant of a standard GSD. Therefore, you will not have to worry so much about champion bloodlines playing into the White German Shepherd price. Geographic Location Geographic location is a factor that affects the price of all dogs. Some areas are simply more expensive. You also have to factor in the possibility of flying to get your White Shepherd or having your new pup shipped to you, depending on the proximity of the breeder. This should be split over two meals 1. This may have to be modified. To understand the feeding amount and frequency of your White Shepherd, consult with your veterinarian. Most White Shepherds should have premium food. You can expect to pay more in medical costs if your White Shepherd develops any health ailments that are common to the breed, such as hip dysplasia. Still, these uniquely colored pups are generally prone to living a long and healthy life. Training Costs One of the biggest advantages of having a White Shepherd is how trainable they are! Early socialization is important for the breed in order to develop healthy social habits with other dogs. Puppy classes, which are done in a group setting, are primarily for obedience training. For private training, you can expect to pay a bit more. Miscellaneous Costs Dog walking White Shepherds demonstrate a great need for exercise. A mature dog will need at least an hour of daily exercise, preferably running off-leash. However, this may not always be possible. Hiring a dog walker is a must if you cannot provide your White Shepherd with sufficient exercise. Without releasing this energy, this muscular dog could become bored and destructive. Pet insurance For the dog lover who is worried about costly vet bills and unexpected expenses, pet insurance may be a good option. Grooming Most White German Shepherds require a moderate amount of grooming. The more often you brush your dog, the less grooming he will need. One of the unfortunate drawbacks of this purebred dog with a gorgeous coat is the presence of white hair everywhere! In fact, they can often develop separation anxiety or other anxiety disorders. The price is slightly higher as their stunning coloring is much rarer, considering it requires two copies of the white recessive gene. Related articles:.
How does the Labradoodle growth chart work? The following numbers are estimates based on the litter of a Labrador Retriever crossed with a standard Poodle. If your pup's Poodle parent is a toy size, then they are likely to be significantly smaller than these estimates. Their health is what matters most, so if you have questions or concerns about your puppy's development, reach out to your veterinarian. At what age is a Labradoodle fully grown? Labradoodles typically need 12 to 18 months to reach their full size, especially if their parents were on the heavier side of the average weight spectrum. Large breeds grow slower and take longer to reach their full size compared to small and medium-sized dog breeds, which usually reach maturity within nine to 11 months. How big should a 6-month-old Labradoodle be? A 6-month-old Labradoodle may weigh anywhere between 40 and 55 pounds. As a general rule, male Labradoodles weigh more than their female counterparts. In terms of height, a 6-month-old Labradoodle puppy will stand around 14 to 18 inches tall at the shoulders, but this varies based on their genetic makeup. Pro Tip: Download our new puppy checklist for tips on how to set up a vaccination schedule, essential pet care supplies, and more. How much bigger will my Labradoodle get? There are a few ways you can estimate how much more your Labradoodle may grow. Most Labradoodles need anywhere from 12 to 18 months to reach their full size. If your pup is younger than a year old, they are likely still growing. Refer to our Labradoodle weight chart to estimate how many more pounds they might put on as they mature into adulthood. If they look oversized compared to their limbs, then they're probably still filling out. Oversized paws are a classic puppy feature indicating that your pup still has more growth underway. Lastly, if you purchased your puppy from a breeder, you can contact them about your Labradoodle's weight. Alhough the breed varies greatly in size, knowing the weight of your puppy's parents and those of previous litters can help you predict your Labradoodle's adult size. What is the size of a full-grown Labradoodle? As a hybrid dog breed, Labradoodles vary significantly in size based on their geneology. Per Agape Labradoodles , adult Labradoodles typically weigh over 45 pounds, with some Labradoodles weighing as much as pounds. However, most Labradoodles will weigh between 50 and 90 pounds. In [terms of height], Labradoodles stand 21 to 24 inches tall when measured from paw to shoulder, or approximately two feet excluding their neck and crown of the head. How do I make sure my Labradoodle is healthy? Our Labradoodle puppies are important, cherished family members who we want the best for. One of the best ways to help your Labradoodle thrive is by taking them to regular veterinary appointments to have them routinely checked out and evaluated. Prevention is always better than treatment, and regular veterinary exams provide your veterinarian with the opportunity to screen your Labradoodle for disease. Your puppy will need to see the veterinarian several times in their first six months of life for core vaccinations against things like Rabies, and then at least once a year as an adult for annual health check-ups. Like their parents, Labradoodles are also more susceptible to hip dysplasia , a common orthopedic condition that occurs when the hip joint forms improperly. Hip dysplasia can lead to pain in their back legs, impaired mobility, and even lameness if not treated - fortunately, the condition is treatable with surgery. When over 20, pet parents were surveyed, only .As loving pet parents, it can be devastating to think that our four-legged friend could develop a painful disease that requires expensive treatment. This is where pet insurance comes in. Most pet parents opt for accident and illness pet insurance plans as they cover both injuries and most illnesses, such as hip dysplasia or eye diseases. Pet wellness plans can be added to your insurance coverage to help you pay for preventive veterinary care, like your regular vet exams, x-rays , dental cleanings , vaccinations, and more. Like humans, dogs are living longer, which creates an even bigger need for excellent veterinary care so that our dogs can live their happiest and healthiest lives. Pet insurance helps alleviate the financial strain that's often caused by vet visit costs. If your Labradoodle puppy gets sick or hurt, you and your veterinarian can work together to provide your pup with the best treatment plan - without worrying about how much it might cost. Key Takeaways Adult Labradoodles weigh pounds on average. The parent Poodle breed has toy and standard size variations that impact the size of the offspring, along with other genetic factors. Most Labradoodles grow until months of age. The breed is known for several congenital health disorders, and is especially prone to hip dysplasia. Pet insurance can protect your puppy and provide a financial safety net for vet costs throughout their life. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Labradoodle Highlights Friendly and intelligent: Labradoodles are known for being friendly and intelligent dogs. They are good with children and other animals, and they are easy to train. Hypoallergenic: Labradoodles are often considered to be hypoallergenic, which means that they do not shed as much as other dogs. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies. Active and playful: Labradoodles are active dogs that need regular exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, going for walks, and swimming. Loyal and devoted: Labradoodles are loyal and devoted dogs that make great companions. They are always happy to see their owners and they love to cuddle. Versatile: Labradoodles are versatile dogs that can be trained for a variety of tasks, including therapy work, obedience, and agility. They can be expensive to purchase and maintain. They require regular grooming, especially if they have a curly coat. They are prone to some health problems, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Overall, Labradoodles are wonderful dogs that make great companions for people of all ages. If you are looking for a friendly, intelligent, and hypoallergenic dog, a Labradoodle may be a good choice for you. Labradoodle History Wally Conron, who was in charge of the breeding program for the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia, purposefully crossbred a Standard Poodle and Labrador Retriever in to develop the Labradoodle as a hypoallergenic guide dog. The first cross produced Sultan, a dog with a hypoallergenic coat, aptitude, intelligence, and personality suitable for being an effective guide dog. Sultan worked successfully with a woman in Hawaii. Other breeders saw the merit of crossing these two breeds, and the Labradoodle quickly rose in popularity like its Labrador Retriever parent. These dogs are often produced by crossing a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle, but multigenerational breeding has begun in an attempt to produce a viable and recognizable breed. The Australian Labradoodle Association and the International Australian Labradoodle Association are taking steps to move this designer breed into registered breed status in the next few years. These groups have made great efforts to bring breeders together so that they are working to achieve the same standards through multigenerational breeding. Labradoodle Size The Labradoodle comes in three size variations, depending on the size of the Poodle used for the first-generation breeding. The three sizes are Standard, Medium, and Miniature. The Standard Labradoodle should be 22 to 24 inches in height for a male and 21 to 23 inches in height for a female, while both can range in weight from 50 to 65 pounds. The Medium Labradoodle should be 18 to 20 inches high for a male and 17 to 19 inches high for a female, with both weighing from 30 to 45 pounds. The average size for a Miniature Labradoodle is between 14 to 16 inches and 15 to 25 pounds. All of that said, there is a lot of variation in Labradoodle sizes. Some can be smaller or larger than expected. Labradoodle Personality The Labradoodle is an intelligent dog who can make the ideal family pet if properly trained. They are friendly and accept and treat everyone like their best friend. They can be gentle, but they can also be joyful, showing their happiness through exuberant jumping and playing. They also tend to be easygoing, since the Labradoodle was bred not to be aggressive. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings, parents, or other relatives of the dog is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when they grow up. Socialization helps ensure that your Labradoodle puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking them to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help them polish their social skills. Here are a few conditions to watch out for: Ear Infections: These can plague Labradoodles because of their floppy ears. The ears trap moisture and should be regularly checked. X-ray screening is the most certain way to diagnose the problem. Either way, arthritis can develop as the dog ages. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : Similar to hip dysplasia, this is also a degenerative disease. The disease varies in severity: the dog could simply develop arthritis, or they could become lame. Treatment includes surgery, weight management, medical management, and anti-inflammatory medication. It can cause mild or severe seizures that may show themselves as unusual behavior—such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding—or even by falling down, limbs rigid, and losing consciousness. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Allergies: Allergies are a common ailment in dogs, and the Labradoodle is no exception. Treatment varies according to the cause and may include dietary restrictions, medications, and environmental changes. Diabetes Mellitus: This is a disorder in which the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels. The dog will lose weight because food is not being used efficiently. Symptoms of diabetes are excessive urination and thirst, increased appetite, and weight loss. Diabetes can be controlled by diet and the administration of insulin. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA : This is a family of eye diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina. Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind; they lose sight during the day as the disease progresses. Many affected dogs adapt well to their limited or lost vision, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Hypothyroidism : This is a disorder of the thyroid gland. It is treated with medication and diet. They require about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day and would do better with a fenced yard in which to expel some energy. Some Labradoodles, especially in the first generation, can require even more exercise. The Labradoodle makes an excellent jogging companion but also needs some time off-leash to burn off steam. The Labradoodle is an intelligent and eager-to-please dog. Training should be easy as long as consistency and positive reinforcement are the methods. Socialize them from puppyhood, since they tend to hurl themselves headlong into canine situations without regard to the feelings of other dogs. This can lead to some problems if the unknown dog is aggressive. Despite their activity levels, a Labradoodle can adjust to living in suburban or city environments and can do well in rural settings. A crate is also a place where they can retreat for a nap. Crate training at a young age will help your Labradoodle accept confinement if they ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized. Never stick your Labradoodle in a crate all day long, however. Labradoodle Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 2. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Labradoodle in good shape by measuring their food and feeding them twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at them. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on their back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see their ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Labradoodle, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Labradoodle Coat Color And Grooming Although a Labradoodle can have one of a range of coat types, the desired length is four to six inches. They have a single coat with hair ranging from straight to loose curls. There are three types of texture: The Hair coat, which is similar to fur in shedding breeds, is the least popular. Hair coats shed and usually have a normal doggy odor. This coat is seen in first generations, although breeders try to avoid it. The Fleece coat has a silky texture often described as an Angora goat texture. This coat ranges from straight to wavy. Labradoodles are considered to be non- to low shedders, especially those with a Fleece or Wool coat. Hair coats tend to shed just as they do in other breeds, ranging from very low to average shedding. The Labradoodle comes in a wide variety of colors. They can also have parti-colored coats, which consist of brindles, phantom, patched, or sable colors. Grooming requirements vary depending on the length and type of coat the dog has. Generally speaking, you can expect to brush a Labradoodle about once or twice per week. Some can be clipped or trimmed every six to eight weeks to keep the coat easy to maintain. Like Labs, Labradoodles can be prone to ear infections, so take a little extra time caring for their ears. Dry and clean them after a swim, and check them once a week for dirt, redness, or a bad odor that can indicate an infection. Then wipe them out weekly with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to prevent problems. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding—and your dog may not cooperate the next time they see the nail clippers come out. Handle their paws frequently—dogs are touchy about their feet—and look inside their mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Labradoodle Children And Other Pets The Labradoodle does well with children and can be an affectionate and gentle companion for any child. They can also be exuberant and might knock down smaller children, but they will love them with all their heart. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Labradoodles usually get along well with other dogs and pets. Like most dogs, they need training and socialization for optimum success at living with and visiting other animals. Labradoodle Rescue Groups Labradoodles are often brought home without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. Many end up in the care of shelters or rescues because of this. It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Labradoodles because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Labrador Retriever or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. Some of these may be genetic, while others can be environmental. Here are some factors that affect labradoodle puppy growth. Genetics No matter what breed of dog it is, genetics plays a very important role in the growth of a puppy. Labradoodles are a mix between Labrador Retriever and Poodle. These dogs share genetic traits from both parents. The size of a labradoodle depends on its Poodle parent. For example, if the Poodle parent is a toy or miniature, you will get a mini and medium-sized labradoodle. However, if the Poodle parent is standard size, you will get a standard-sized labradoodle. Nutrition Selecting a nutritious diet for your Labradoodle puppy is essential to his well-being and development. Giving him all of the nutrients he needs to flourish and grow. Puppies are in a period of rapid growth, so they require more nutrients for bone and joint development than adult dogs. Puppies who receive adequate nutrition grows to their full potential. When feeding your pup, make sure the food contains all essential nutrients as well as the right levels of fat and protein. Your veterinarian can advise you on the ideal food to provide them with. Physical Activity Labradoodles are high-energy dogs that need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy. If not given enough exercise, they could develop health issues such as obesity, diabetes, or heart disease. When your puppy is young, it is best to limit their exercise as excessive physical activity can cause joint damage that will impact their development later in life. Walking and jogging are two activities that puppies enjoy doing, but these should only be done in small amounts in order to protect their joints. Health The growth of Labradoodle puppies also depends on their overall health. Labradoodles may suffer from health conditions that hinder their growth, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. These conditions make it difficult for them to walk or lead an ordinary life. So, make sure you buy a Labradoodle puppy from a reputable breeder and screen them for any health issues. It is also advisable to take them for regular vet visits. Many new pet parents often wonder what size their Labradoodle will be when they grow up. For Labradoodle puppies, puppyhood lasts from birth until about five or six months old. During this stage, you will see a massive growth spurt in Labradoodles. They will keep growing until they reach adulthood. However, this may not always be the case; some may need additional pounds to gain before reaching this milestone. Conclusion A Labradoodle is a designer hybrid dog created by crossing two breeds — Poodles and Labrador Retrievers. As such, these dogs possess high energy levels, are friendly, and are highly affectionate. If you are planning to get a Labradoodle puppy or already have one, it is essential to monitor their growth, as their size can be drastically affected by certain factors. With some simple formulas, these charts may even allow you to predict their future weights. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. Standard and medium Labradoodles will generally stop growing at around 1 year of age, while miniature Labradoodles will stop growing at around 10 months. However, there is some deviation in this, and your Labradoodle may stop growing slightly sooner or later. If you notice your Labradoodle putting on extra weight when it is over 12 months old, it could be a sign that it is putting on too much weight. Check the height of the dog, compare it to the expected size, and make sure you are providing a balanced diet and regular exercise. Image Credit: Adam Melnyk, Shutterstock Factors Affecting the Size of Labradoodles The primary factor that determines the size of a Labradoodle is whether the first generation was bred from a standard, miniature, or toy Poodle. Beyond that, factors such as diet and exercise play a big part. Dogs that eat more will usually grow heavier, although not necessarily bigger. Exercise helps to keep weight off but it can also lead to a growth in muscle mass, which also puts extra weight on the dog. Some illnesses can cause growth to slow or speed up, and if your dog is growing more quickly or slower than expected for its age, and has any other symptoms of concern, it is worth speaking to a vet to ensure everything is OK. Ideal Diet for Maintaining a Healthy Weight Labradoodles should get protein from high-quality sources , typically including chicken, turkey, beef, and other meats. They can also get protein from vegetable sources as Labradoodles—like all dogs—are omnivores that benefit from a diet that consists of meat and pl1ant-based ingredients. Unless they have an allergy, Labradoodles can also eat grains and cereals. Such protein and other ingredients can come in dry kibble, via wet or canned food, or as part of a carefully constructed and safely prepared raw food diet. Owners should follow feeding guidelines, which are usually given according to the weight or target weight of the dog. Alternatively, your vet or possibly a dog groomer may have scales and measures to help take the required measurements. Conclusion The Labradoodle has become one of the most popular dog breeds around the world and is almost certainly the most popular hybrid breed. It was bred as a guide dog that was also hypoallergenic but is more often kept as a companion dog. There are different sizes, according to the size of Poodle that was originally bred, which means that the typical weight and size of the Doodle can vary. Size variations between F types This is your complete guide to Labradoodle size. The Labradoodle The Labradoodle dog is a hybrid dog breed. What this basically means is that Labradoodles have one purebred Poodle parent dog and one purebred Labrador Retriever parent dog. In the world of Labradoodle breeders, there are three adult size ranges: miniature, medium and standard. As you can imagine, the size of the Poodle parent can greatly impact adult Labradoodle size. But not always in the ways you might expect. In the case of standard Labradoodles, the Poodle parent is a standard Poodle. In the case of miniature Labradoodles, the Poodle parent is a miniature Poodle. The medium Labradoodle size can occur in either pairing, which we will talk about in greater detail here shortly. History of the Breed Labradoodles as a hybrid breed got their start in the s in Australia. A blind woman from Hawaii wrote to a man named Walter Conron. Conron was then in charge of breeding and training guide dogs for the Royal Guide Dog Association of Australia. The blind woman had a special problem: her husband was wildly allergic to dogs. So she was reaching out in hopes of finding a hypoallergenic dog to help her get around. Conron took on the challenge with gusto, and to make a long story short, the Labradoodle was the result. Labradoodles still make fabulous service dogs. But they are also beloved as family pets for their famously friendly, smart, intuitive personality, their adorable appearance and, in some cases, their non-shedding coats. This variance relates to the size of each parent dog. And also to what generation breeding program the puppy comes from more about that topic here later. Standard Labradoodle puppies typically weigh between 7 and 12 pounds by the time they are two months old. But in 10 more short months, they may weigh up to 80 pounds depending on the size of each parent dog. Miniature Labradoodle puppies, in contrast, may only weigh 4 to 7 pounds at the age of two months. In 10 months, they may weigh anywhere from 30 to 45 pounds. This depends on the size of each parent dog. To estimate the size of medium Labradoodle puppies, it is best to learn as much as you can about the breeding pair. Important factors include whether the Poodle parent if you choose an F1 breeder is a Standard Poodle or a Miniature Poodle. Labradoodle Growth You need to know the breed size of each parent dog and the exact weight of your little Labradoodle pup to work out how big they will grow. Or use the four fold or double up formula. The Four Fold Formula When your puppy reaches the age of two months, the number you see on the scale typically represents one-quarter of his or her estimated adult weight. The Double Up Formula When your puppy reaches the age of four months, the number you see on the scale typically represents one-half of his or her estimated adult weight. For this reason, even though using these formulas can give you a handy point of reference as your Labradoodle puppy grows up, no formula should be used to substitute frequent weigh-ins and health check-ups by a qualified canine vet. To help moderate growth neither too slow nor too fast , if your Labradoodle puppy falls into the miniature to medium size range, select a Labradoodle puppy food that is formulated for the needs of smaller breed dogs. On the other hand, if your Labradoodle puppy is projected to be a standard size in adulthood, you will want to select a puppy food formulated for the needs of medium to large breed dogs. They can help you adjust portion sizes and Labradoodle puppy foods as needed. Labradoodle size in adulthood can vary depending on gender. In general, adult males tend to outweigh adult females by 10 to 15 pounds. Of course, this is not always the case. Other factors that can influence adult weight include birth order and food type. Also feeding schedule, activity level and health in puppyhood. Hybrid dog breeding always includes genetic uncertainty. The Reason Behind This Why can Labradoodle size in adulthood be so hard to precisely predict, you might be wondering? The answer relates back to the nature of hybrid dog breeding itself. Whenever two different sets of canine genes combine, it is not possible to predict exactly how each set of genes will influence a given puppy in any litter. For example, in Labradoodle breeding programs, this means some puppies in a hybrid litter may grow up to look and act more like Labrador Retrievers while other puppies may grow up to look and act more like Poodles. Labradoodle Breeding Programs There are different types of Labradoodle breeding programs. Some programs contain a greater amount of genetic uncertainty than other programs. Here is a basic overview of the different programs in order of greatest to least genetic uncertainty: F1: This Labradoodle puppy will have one purebred Poodle parent and one purebred Labrador Retriever parent. F2: This Labradoodle puppy will have two F1 Labradoodle parents. Using This To Choose Your Labradoodle Size If it is very important for you to ensure your Labradoodle will be a certain size when fully grown, we encourage you to seek out a multi-generational Labradoodle breeder to work with. It is also very helpful to meet each parent dog to assess potential size variance in adulthood before making a commitment to a puppy. Here again, meeting each parent dog can help you assess potential coat variance in adulthood. These two examples will give you more insight into how sizing differences arise. It can even happen between Labradoodle puppies within a single litter. Here, the adult Labrador Retriever parent will typically weigh l The adult Standard Poodle parent will typically weigh between 40 and 70 pounds. A breeding pair where the Standard Poodle weighs 40 pounds will theoretically produce more size variance in a litter than a breeding pair where the Standard Poodle weighs 70 pounds. Miniature Labradoodle Size Variance In the case of miniature Labradoodle size, you will have a Labrador Retriever parent dog weighing between 65 and 80 pounds and a miniature Poodle parent weighing between 10 and 15 pounds. Here, it is easy to see how you can expect quite a bit of size variance in early F1, F1b breeding programs regardless of what each parent dog weighs. Is My Labradoodle Overweight? Labradoodle Size and Weight Labradoodles are among the most popular mixed breed dogs. A cross between the Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, Labradoodle fans hope their dog will combine the best qualities from both breeds. Before they bring a Doodle home, they usually want to know how big it is likely to get. But the adult size of any puppy can be hard to predict, especially when it comes to mixed breed dogs. Mixed breed dogs like the Labradoodle can inherit a combination of characteristics from both parent breeds, including size. Weighing Up The Labradoodle Labradoodle adult weight can be especially hard to predict because their Poodle parent comes in three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. It is common for Labradoodles to be labelled as either standard or miniature, depending on the size of the Poodle parent. Furthermore, weight guides for the three Labradoodle sizes tend to be broad. Generally, a mini Labradoodle will be under 30lbs, a medium between 30lbs and 40lbs, and a standard Labradoodle is 40lbs or over. It can be difficult to get more specific than these rough weight ranges, because many things contribute to the size and weight of an individual dog. They are: The size and genetic background of the parent breeds. How the sex of a dog can influence size. And the overall health and body condition of the dog. Labrador Retriever Weight Adult male Labradors weigh between 65lbs and 80lbs. Adult female Labs weigh between 55lbs and 70lbs. The Labrador is a solid, sturdy dog with an athletic and muscular body type. Labradors can be prone to weight gain, a trait that may or may not be passed on in a Labradoodle. Some genetic lines of Labrador Retrievers are larger and stockier, whilst others are leaner and lighter. British Labradors tend to fall into the first category, and American Labs fall into the second. They should be able to show you photographs and veterinary weight records to help you visualize the ancestry of their puppies. Poodle Weight The three Poodle types cover a remarkable range in size. The weight range for adult male Standard Poodles is 60lbs to 70lbs, and females are 40lbs to 50lbs. Miniature Poodles weigh between 10lbs and 15lbs. Toy Poodles weigh between 4lbs and 6lbs, and due to the massive disparity with Labradors, they are rarely used to sire first generation Labradoodle crossbreeds. In theory, a Labradoodle can weigh as little as their smallest parent and as much as their largest parent. However, most individuals end up somewhere in between, so that most mini Labradoodles weigh between 30lbs and 50lbs, and most standard Labradoodles weigh between 40lbs and 80lbs. There will always be outliers though, who grow unexpectedly big, or remain surprisingly petite! Male Weight vs Female Weight In many animal species, the two sexes differ in size and weight. This is known as sexual dimorphism. In dogs, sexual dimorphism leads to larger, heavier male dogs and smaller, lighter female dogs. This applies to most dog breeds but is especially true for larger breed dogs. In one study of sexual dimorphism in dogs, Labrador Retrievers and all three Poodle types were recorded as exhibiting sexual dimorphism, but it is most pronounced in the Lab and Standard Poodle. And these weight differences between males and females can be significant. What does this mean for the Labradoodle? Owners can expect to see some level of sexual dimorphism in mini and standard Labradoodles. So the weight of your Labradoodle is not totally out of your control. Underweight Labradoodles One of the main reasons your dog may be underweight or smaller than average is because he or she is the runt of the litter. Low birth weight in puppies can be associated with small size as an adult, as well as health issues such as cleft palate, heart defects, and a susceptibility to infections. One study of birth weight in Labrador Retrievers found that puppy size can be influenced by several factors, including: Sex of the puppy Gestation time Weight, age, and inbreeding of the mother If you choose the smallest puppy in a Labradoodle litter, make sure that they have been given a clean bill of health by a vet before you collect them, and get them checked by your own vet as soon as possible too. They can be smaller than average and perfectly healthy. Normal Weight Labradoodles The normal weight range for Labradoodles is wide. A mini Labradoodle can weigh under 30 pounds while a standard Labradoodle can be over 60 pounds. The best way to tell if your Labradoodle is within the normal weight range is to weigh your dog regularly and use the standard veterinary Body Condition Score BCS system for dogs. So ask your vet to show you what to look for in your dog, and remember to take them back for vet check ups twice a year. Overweight Labradoodles Does your dog exceed the normal weight range for Labradoodles? This is common if your dog inherits the Labrador tendency for weight gain. Poor diet and lack of exercise can lead to obesity in Labradoodles, but these factors are in your control. Feed your dog a quality diet that is high in protein. Once your Doodle is fully grown, twice daily feedings are sufficient. Daily exercise will keep your Labradoodle happy and healthy. Aim for around 60 minutes per day, which can be a combination of walks and play sessions. Whether your Labradoodle is small, medium, or large, proper care ensures that your dog is happy and healthy! Good breeders can tell you how big they expect their litters to grow, and they should also be honest with you about the possibility for variation. Once you bring your puppy home, your vet will track their growth through puppyhood, and help you pinpoint a healthy adult weight for them. Did the size of your Labradoodle take you by surprise? How much does your Labradoodle weigh? Does it fall wide of what you expected? Let us know in the comments box down below! More articles to help keep your Labradoodle healthy. Our puppy growth chart and calculator has your answer! Size is largely determined by genetics. Size is inherited in non-linear ways in dogs and other animals. Some puppies stay much smaller than both parents, some become much bigger, and some are in the middle. While size is already hard to predict in purebred dogs, it becomes even more erratic when two breeds are crossed such as in any Doodle mix litter. Labradors are large dogs. They can have a heavy build with deep chests and a wide rib cage. Poodles on the other hand are rather dainty, even though they are tall. Especially in the first generation of a Labradoodle litter that means a generation whose parents are a purebred Poodle and a purebred Labrador , there will be a greater variation of size. The smallest and the tallest puppy of the litter might be as much as 20 pounds apart in weight! That being said, most Labradoodles weigh somewhere between 45 and 65 pounds and are inches tall. Because they are a mixed breed, they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club and have no breed standard that requires a certain size. At what age is a Labradoodle fully grown? As a large dog breed, Labradoodles grow past their first birthday. The smaller a dog, the sooner he is finished growing. Some very small breeds can stop growing around months. Since the Labradoodle is tall, expect him to continue growing until about months of age. At 12 months, most tall dogs are lanky teenagers! By the time your Labradoodle is 2 years old, he will definitely be done growing. How big is a 6 month old Labradoodle? At 6 months old, your Labradoodle will weigh about pounds. He is definitely not fully grown yet — expect him to become quite a bit taller and heavier in the coming months. As your Labradoodle puppy is growing up, his coat will become longer and thicker as well! Make sure you bathe and brush him regularly. Trimming his coat regularly with a good set of clippers will be very important as well! Ensuring healthy growth Here is what you can do to set your Labradoodle up for a healthy growth and solid adult weight: Nutrition and feeding Without the right nutrition, your pup cannot grow well. You need to feed your Labradoodle a high-quality food with a lot of protein. Protein is what our bodies are built of — your growing pup needs a lot in order to grow tall and strong. You can choose from a variety of different foods, such as: Dry food.
Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Availability of puppies and conditions of sale are at the sole discretion of the individual breeder. You are not obligated to purchase a puppy from the breeders whose names you obtain from GRCA puppy referral. They truly love their golden's and have passion for what they do.Beautiful dogs.We researched breeders in and found BBG to adopt a puppy our 4th golden for our family of five and none of us looked back! We found a breeder with knowledge, support, advice, respect, kindness, compassion, care and incredible love for the dogs! Best decision ever!!! After doing her research, Kerry flew all the way from Washington to PA to add new blood to her line to insure healthy puppies for her offspring and their owners. I selected BBG as a breeder due to Kerry's passion for breeding healthy and happy dogs. With health checks for multiple generations of both the Dame and Sire lines, it was very important to me that I was not supporting a puppy mill or irresponsible breeding industry. I couldn't be happier with my two boys, other than I can hear one of them in my closet as I write this.You will become a member of the BBG family, and it is fantastic. If you want a gorgeous, correct golden with just the right blend of show and field lines that has been given the absolute best start in life, you want a BBG golden. I live on the other side of the country, and I did an absolute TON of research on the lines carried by Golden Retriever breeders from across the country, and I kept circling back to BBG. BBG is truly unique, not just their look and lines, but also the fact that they keep it small, so your puppy will be given daily love, attention, and neurological stimulation with everything from baby slides and toys, to moshing in a fun ball pit! You won't just get daily photos and videos of your special puppy from birth on, but your puppy will also leave their care having been extensively socialized and exposed to just about everything a family dog will experience, because he or she will be born and raised INSIDE their home. My BBG golden is incredibly intelligent, and is everything a Golden should be! Thank you, Kerry and Vicki! Always on hand to answer any questions! BigBendGoldens does not make any warranties about the completeness, reliability and accuracy of this information. Any action you take upon the information you find on this website BigBendGoldens , is strictly at your own risk. From our website, you can visit other websites by following hyperlinks to such external sites. While we strive to provide only quality links to useful and ethical websites, we have no control over the content and nature of these sites. These links to other websites do not imply a recommendation for all the content found on these sites. Site owners and content may change without notice and may occur before we have the opportunity to remove a link which may have gone 'bad'. Please be also aware that when you leave our website, other sites may have different privacy policies and terms which are beyond our control. Please be sure to check the Privacy Policies of these sites as well as their "Terms of Service" before engaging in any business or uploading any information. Consent By using our website, you hereby consent to our disclaimer and agree to its terms. Update Should we update, amend or make any changes to this document, those changes will be prominently posted here. Proudly created with Wix. Share 0 Shares Golden Retrievers are a great breed of dog for anyone who is looking for a very trainable dog with a fairly active lifestyle. These dogs have also been known to fit in well with many families as well thanks to their easy-going temperament. This makes them well suited to be around children and other pets. When looking to get a Golden Retriever puppy you may want to take into account whether or not you will want a male or a female. This is because many people claim that male and female dogs can sometimes have different kinds of personalities and drive. Additionally, you may want to look into if a Standard or Miniature Golden Retriever is the right dog for you. It is important to note that miniature Golden Retrievers are always the result of a crossbreed, and they are not officially recognized as a part of the Golden Retriever breed. Looking for a reputable Golden Retriever breeder to get your puppy from can seem to be challenging at times. This is especially true when you take things like health testing, health guarantees, and proper socialization methods into account. Well, here are 14 Golden Retriever breeders in Washington state to help you out on your breeder search. This means that they follow all of their recommended health and socialization protocols. As a result, every one of their dogs have gotten health tested for hips, elbows, eyes, and heart. Additionally, this breeder also does genetic testing for some conditions that can affect the Golden Retriever breed. Every one of their puppies will be kept up to date on their deworming and vaccinations prior to going to their new homes. They will all be seen by a vet before going to their new families as well. This Golden Retriever breeder utilizes early neurological stimulation to start all of their puppies off right. From there puppies continue their socialization with age-appropriate exposure to a variety of environments and stimuli. This breeder views every one of their dogs as a part of the family, and they are all born and raised in their home with the family. This breeder sells their puppies with a month health guarantee, and they are also members of both the Golden Retriever Club of America and the Rainier Hunting Retriever Club. Name of Owner. We are passionate about these little treasures and our small breeding program. We are a busy family with 4 children ages .Our dogs are part of our family and live with us, in our home, and under foot. The Miniature Golden Retriever, also known as the Petite Golden and Mini Golden, is a Designer Breed that has been crossbred to produce a healthier dog with the happy people-loving temperament of the Golden Retriever, the small size and sweet cuddly personality of the King Charles Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel, and the intelligent temperament and low shedding coat of the Poodle. Our Miniature Golden Retrievers range in size from pounds. Occasionally we may have smaller puppies maturing at closer to 15 pounds and larger puppies maturing closer to 50 pounds. We will do our best to make an estimate of the adult size of your puppy, but ultimately we can NOT guarantee adult sizes. We breed for temperament, health, and size. Our dogs are DNA tested and annually health screened by our vet before breeding. All our puppies come with a 2 year health guarantee. Start the adoption process today!!! Not only will you learn the skills you need to be successful, but your puppy will learn incredible manners and behaviors as well! Each puppy that comes from our kennel comes home with a beautiful Registration Certificate. Continuing this daily regimen is the easiest and best way to keep your pet on the path to perfect health! NuVet Plus is a lifetime product to help support their immune system and provide assistance to their optimal health. A strong immune system will protect them from environmental and food toxins such as back yard pesticides, hormones, germs from public places, and even toxic formaldehyde in furniture and carpeting. NuVet Plus is a full spectrum, immune system support supplement that contains over 30 different nutrient dense ingredients that well better equip puppies to get and stay healthy. She is already so comfortable here and so attached. She gets so excited every time she sees us. And she has such a sweet disposition Everything goes for her. She just rolls with it. She loves to play and has lots of playful energy when she chases behind a toy or plays tug of war. But she loves to cuddle too, and she can busy herself well too without complaint. Yesterday we left her home when we went on a walk and she never barked or whined and was fast asleep when we returned. She accepted her crate as if she had never known any other place to rest. She just crawls in there and rests when she is tired. And when she wakes up, she quietly plays until we take her out of the playpen. Her potty training is going well. A couple of accidents here and there, but most of the time we catch her before anything happens, and she always does her business right away when we put her on the grass patch we have on the patio. She is getting a treat when she does her business. So, she actually figured out that if she spares some pee and squats several times, she will get several treats. Only One treat for the first time, everything after does not get rewarded any more. Wow, I have never seen a puppy learning that fast. And loving to learn. Being really food driven helps. I could not think of a better quarantine buddy to brighten up our day. I think she will be an amazing therapy dog who brightens up the day if many more people. Oh, and did I mention she is absolutely beautiful? Thank you again for that gift, Michele. I hope you are all doing well and are coping with the many new puppies. Some stressful days ahead of you, I am sure. And you are the best puppy mom I have ever encountered. Lots of love to your whole beautiful family! You will be able to find all their current contact information, as well as a link to their website, so you can see what puppies they currently have available for sale. We provide you with all this information so that you can research each breeder individually and find the one that has your perfect puppy available! It's written by expert owner and veterinarian Dr. The book contains a lot of really useful insights that can help a new owner avoid common mistakes that most Golden Retriever owners make. It's widely available, so pick up a copy if you see one, here is the link to grab one on Amazon, or you can download the audiobook version here. If you can't find the perfect Miniature Golden Retriever puppy in your state, try checking at your local animal shelter or rescue organization. Many Golden Retrievers mini and regular-sized need a loving home and adopting one can be a great way to save a life. We are so happy that you have chosen Local Puppy Breeders to help you find the puppy of your dreams. In addition to visiting us often here, you can check us out on Facebook , Twitter , and Pinterest for more information, pictures, and videos!
Black German Shepherd — Important Information Puppy Price There are numerous german shepherd breeders as they are very popular dogs in many parts of the world. However, it is often hard to find breeders producing black german shepherds. Most of the time you will need to find someone who specializes in the breeding of black german shepherd puppies. The fact that these all black german shepherd puppies are quite rare, and are simply not available in numbers that can meet demand, makes them a lot more expensive than your classic colored german shepherd. It is important to look into the pedigree of the parents, as well as inquire with the breeder about health testing and registration of the dogs and the facility. Rescue Price When it comes to rescuing a black german shepherd, it is hard to provide an accurate price range as the cost will depend on a number of factors. Temperament German Shepherds as a breed are often considered by people to be naturally aggressive, perhaps because they are used by most police departments as criminal trackers and chase dogs. The truth however, is that they are genuinely kind-hearted animals, but have been bred to be incredibly protective to the point of being potentially dangerous to anyone threatening their people. German Shepherds are known for their unwavering devotion, as well as the fact that they are incredibly intelligent and as a result are one of the easiest breeds to train. When trained properly, they are one of the most responsive and obedient canine breeds on the planet, which is made evident in their high-quality police work and other occupations. It is important to ensure that as an owner you are actively socializing your german shepherd from a very young age so that they are accustomed to people, both strangers and familiar presences. This is crucial because if they have not been properly socialized, strangers will make them uncomfortable and cautious, which can in some cases lead to bad situations. Origin The German Shepherd comes from a generalized group of European herding dogs that were used frequently in the early to mid s. Throughout the s, people were making attempts to standardize dog breeds in order to target specific characteristics and preferred genetic traits. At some point that year, a dog named Horand von Grafrath sparked the creation of the Society for German Shepherd Dogs. This organization was founded by believers that the German Shepherd dog breed, postered by Horand Von Grafrath, was a breed that could provide incredible working ability and intelligence. From here, the German Shepherd breed standard was developed and became known as one of the highest quality all around breeds. In a few short generations, the German Shepherd became one of the most common and highly populated dog breeds in the world. Honrand fathered many litters of puppies in his time, to the point where a large part of German Shepherds today would be descended from him. Dimensions The relative dimensions for Black German Shepherds will vary slightly between males and females. They will end up having the same build and grow to be around the same sizes as the more commonly colored version. Males will usually grow to weigh between 70 and 90 pounds, whereas females will end up at a full grown weight of 50 to 75 pounds. This weight range classifies these dogs as a medium to large breed. Take this into consideration when deciding whether or not you have the space and capacity to properly provide for your German Shepherd. In terms of height, Black German Shepherds will typically grow to be about 22 — 26 inches. This is true for both males and females, however the males will inherently be much bulkier than the females. Their body length will usually fall within the range of 36 to 42 inches, which will also remain true for both genders. Grooming Grooming recommendations and the relative extent of which you as an owner will need to groom your Black German Shepherd will depend significantly on the type or length of coat that you would like to maintain. German Shepherds with medium-length coats will only need to be brushed on average two or three times a week, unless they get extra matted for some reason. Dogs with a longer coat will typically need to be combed at least once a day to prevent mats and maintain a nice comfortable, good looking coat. German Shepherds have a double coat, and are known to shed excessively. Do not purchase or adopt one of these dogs unless you and the others living in your household can deal with the extra hair. People with allergies may be significantly affected by a high volume shedding dog breed living with them. You can employ anti-shedding shampoos and try high-quality diets in order to try to regulate the amount of shedding that your dog will experience. Lifespan The average lifespan of a Black German Shepherd is expected to be somewhere between 9 and 13 years of age. This is around the running standard for dogs of this size, although there are other breeds that have longer life expectancies. These dogs have a variety of commonly known health issues that will play a part in their relative lifespan. Things like hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis and CDRM spinal cord degeneration are often found in this breed of dog. In general however, they will be the same dimensions and proportions as a run of the mill German Shepherd dog. The main difference, as the name itself makes quite clear, is the fact that these dogs have a coat that is completely black, as opposed to the common black and tan color combination that we see in a standard German Shepherd. This feature is quite rare, and is the reason that this type of German Shepherd is significantly more expensive than the standard style. The Black German Shepherd is actually incredibly rare, as opposed to other breed alternatives that appear when recessive genes show through. It has been estimated through data analytics that as little as 6. If you are after one of these rare and incredibly striking dogs, it is best to find a breeder who specializes in this color of German Shepherd. One of the most important things for breeders and hopeful owners to remember is that just because you have a parent that is a black German Shepherd, does not mean that you will end up with all black puppies. The truth is that you are much more likely to end up with the standard black and tan color in your litter of puppies. This is the main reason that these dogs are so rare and hard to find, and as a result are a lot more expensive. Grooming Tips For Black German Shepherds One of the most common tips provided for Black German Shepherd owners is the fact that grooming will be accompanied by lots of hair! These dogs are known for shedding excessively, as they will typically have longer coats than the standard colored German Shepherds. It is important to invest in a high quality comb that can easily comb through longer pet hair without causing pain or discomfort. Make sure that you are properly grooming both the thick top coat, as well as the undercoat. More grooming will not only make these sessions easier and more pleasant for both parties, but will also leave them feeling more comfortable and allow them to show off a beautiful coat! Dan J. Dan is a well respected content researcher who has vast experience working projects in the pets niche. He is a frequent contributor to dogtemperament. Check out our. This is not true. They have a large, muscular build They have a fluffy tail Their ears are erect They have a double coat They are heavy shedders They are a solid black color They can be larger They often have a straighter back Their coat can be longer, sometimes with a flowing mane around the rear of the neck , skirting on either side of the body between the front and back legs and feathering long hair on the ears, backs of legs and beneath the tail 3. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black All German Shepherd puppies are either born black, gray or white and can change color as they grow. Their true coat color can usually be determined at about 8 weeks of age. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black and will stay black through adulthood. So, if you are looking for a solid Black German Shepherd puppy, you will want to get her at this age, and not before, in order to be sure she is indeed a solid black color. A German Shepherd that is, say, black and tan, can carry the recessive solid black gene and produce Black German Shepherd puppies. However, both parents must have the recessive gene for solid black to appear in the litter. It can happen. The second way solid Black German Shepherd puppies are produced is by mating two solid blacks. This mix can only produce a solid black litter. The color of this dog does not affect its temperament. The Black German Shepherd is just as loyal, alert, active and intelligent as the standard variety and is not predisposed to aggression. She is often aloof at first, but once you bond with her, she will be your companion for life. Black German Shepherds are also incredibly trainable and are used as police and military dogs, disability aid dogs, and obedience dogs. Look how obedient this month old Black Shepherd puppy is: Just like any German Shepherd, their protective instinct can be strong. These are dogs that were used to herd and protect livestock, and they will do the same with their human pack! In the case of your family coming into danger, have no doubt this dog will defend you. As a companion dog, however, you want her to recognize that not all people are a threat. Make sure you socialize her from a young age so that she gets on well with people in adulthood. They can be pricey Black German Shepherds are quite rare and for this reason tend to cost more, especially if they have the long, luxurious coat. Like all German Shepherds, they are prone to health problems The German Shepherd breed can, unfortunately, suffer from numerous health issues. The number one concern for this breed is hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. This condition occurs when the ball and socket joint is malformed and can result in arthritis or even lameness. This can be helped by maintaining a healthy weight in your dog. Other potential health problems include: Heart disease. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. The black German shepherd is a rare and highly sought-after variety of the standard German shepherd dog breed. Although multiple color variations of GSD exist, black German shepherd puppies are one of the most popular thanks to their sleek, handsome coats. The pitch-black color that gives these dogs their magnificent appearance is the result of a naturally occurring recessive gene. This means black German shepherds have naturally existed for quite some time, but they are much rarer than their black and tan counterparts. When properly socialized from a young age, black German shepherds make wonderful companions and excellent guard dogs. These large doggos are best suited for experienced owners with large homes and fenced-in yards. If you are looking for a handsome companion that can double as a guard dog, the black German shepherd is a fantastic choice! Keep on reading to find out more about this rare variety and decide if it is the right canine for you. Black German shepherds are a color variation of the standard German shepherd dog. While they may look completely different, these dogs are the same breed, and the black variety is recognized in the official GSD standard. While purebred black German shepherd puppies can compete in dog shows, they are often overlooked in favor of the classic black and tan look. These dogs were later used by the military as messengers, sentries, guards, supply carriers, and rescuers. Black shepherds tend to be slightly larger than the average GSD, and most have a straighter back. When it comes to features, you can expect your black German shepherd puppy to have a clear-cut head, pointed ears, a long snout, almond-shaped brown eyes, and a black nose. Males are usually around 24 to 26 inches tall at the withers and weigh between 65 and 90 pounds. Female dogs are typically smaller and stand between 22 and 24 inches tall and weigh from 50 to 75 pounds. The average GSD can be black and tan, black, sable, grey, red and black, or even black and silver. In German shepherds, black coats are caused by a recessive gene. This means a puppy needs to inherit two copies of a recessive gene from both mom and dad in order to have a black coat. For example, if you mate two sable German shepherds that carry this recessive gene, a quarter of their puppies will have a black coat. However, if you breed a black German shepherd with a sable dog that carries the gene, roughly half of their litter will be black in color. Breeding two black German shepherds is the only guaranteed way to produce a litter of completely black puppies. Bear in mind that all German shepherd puppies change color as they grow. Coat Texture These pitch-black canines have a medium-to-long double coat. The coat can be either straight or wavy and will shed all year long and go through two blowouts — once in the spring and again in the fall. If you decide to welcome a black GSD into your home, be prepared to welcome lots of loose doggy hair as well! Since these doggos shed a lot, invest in a powerful pet hair vacuum cleaner and be prepared to vacuum every day to keep your home clean and tidy. Black German Shepherd Temperament And Character Black German shepherds are best known for their loyal, courageous, obedient, and watchful temperament. Thanks to their protective nature and working history, they make amazing guard dogs that will fiercely protect your family and your home. A properly trained and socialized black GSD puppy will get along well with people outside the family but remain a loyal guardian and protector. They are naturally wary of strangers, so early socialization and consistent training are a must! Although they are working dogs at heart, black GSD make wonderful companions and even get along with children and other pets when properly socialized. An anxious or stressed black shepherd will turn to destructive behavior to relieve their frustrations. As a result, your black German shepherd pup may decide to chew woodwork , destroy your home, or bark loudly. While they are not the best choice for first-time owners, black shepherds make fantastic family pets and companions when properly trained and socialized. Because they tend to get so attached to their people, these pups are better off in homes where someone is usually around to keep them company. Activity Level Highly energetic and agile, these handsome solid black pups need regular exercise to stay healthy and in good shape. Apart from at least two daily walks, your black German shepherd pup will also enjoy running, jogging, hiking, cycling, swimming, or any other activity that allows them to spend time with you. Caring For Black German Shepherd Puppy While they are not harder to care for than standard German shepherds, your black GSD still needs a lot of love, care, and affection to stay happy and thrive. It is crucial to design a consistent care routine for your pooch and keep track of regular veterinary check ups to detect any health problems early on. When creating a care routine for your GSD puppy, pay special attention to the following factors: Exercise The black German shepherd is a highly energetic dog that needs at least one hour of intense exercise every day. Enrolling your puppy in agility classes is a great way to keep them exercised and can be a fun and entertaining experience for them. Games such as fetch, flyball, Frisbee, tug-of-war, and hide and seek are also great options and will keep your pooch exercised and entertained. Intellectual Stimulation Black German shepherds are highly intelligent dogs that can easily become bored, frustrated, and destructive when not mentally stimulated. A bored or anxious black shepherd can cause serious damage to your home and belongings. Companionship Loyal and devoted to a fault, black GSD puppies make superb family dogs and companions. They form strong bonds with their people and are happiest when they can spend time and interact with their families. While they are large and intimidating at first, these pups are loving companions that crave affection and attention. Black German shepherd puppies need company and are best suited for homes where someone is around all day. Grooming The black German shepherd is a high-maintenance dog when it comes to grooming. If your pup has a medium-length coat, brush them two to three times a week to remove loose hair and keep their coat in pristine condition. Use a de-shedding tool to remove loose hair and minimize the shedding during spring and fall. To further reduce shedding, bathe your GSD with an anti-shed dog shampoo every two months or as necessary. You should also brush their teeth at least three times a week and trim their nails every other month. Diet An ideal diet for black German shepherds should be formulated for a large-sized dog with high energy. When choosing the best food for your pooch, make sure it contains higher levels of protein, a moderate amount of fat, and easily digestible complex carbohydrates. Keep in mind that black German shepherd puppies grow extremely quickly between the ages of four and seven months, which makes them susceptible to bone disorders. Feed your pup high-quality, low-calorie food to prevent them from growing too rapidly. Known Health Problems As a breed, German shepherds are considered generally healthy. Black GSD and all other German shepherds are prone to the same health problems, including: Hip Dysplasia: This is a hereditary condition that causes malformation of a hip joint. Affected dogs may or may not show clinical signs of this condition, but in most cases, dogs experience pain and lameness in one or both hind legs. Elbow Dysplasia: This is another hereditary condition commonly seen in large breeds. This condition is caused by varying growth rates of the three bones that make up the elbow, resulting in joint looseness. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus: Also known as bloat, GDV is a life-threatening condition that affects large, deep-chested dog breeds, particularly if they are fed one large meal a day, eat rapidly, drink a lot of water after eating, or exercise just after a meal. Degenerative Myelopathy: This is a progressive disease of the spinal cord. This condition affects the part of the cord that gives information to the brain regarding the rear legs. Lifespan The black German shepherd has an average lifespan of around 9 to 13 years. With proper care and regular veterinary checkups, these pups can reach their senior years in good health. Training A Black German Shepherd Puppy Black German shepherd puppies are highly intelligent and obedient, which makes them very easy to train. These pups are fairly easy to housetrain, and they also learn obedience commands after just a few repetitions. Like all other dogs, black German shepherds thrive on reward-based training and a lot of praise. Positive reinforcement training techniques are highly effective for training puppies and adult dogs and are much more reliable than dominance training. Besides training, you should start socializing your black GSD puppy as soon as you bring them home. Since these pups are naturally aloof with strangers, early socialization is essential and will help your dog to become friendlier to other people. Try to expose your puppy to as many people, places, situations, animals, children, and sounds from a young age to help them grow into an outgoing dog. Properly trained and socialized black German shepherd pups make wonderful companions to people of all ages and families with children. Due to their large size and highly energetic nature, these dogs are best suited for large homes with spacious, fenced yards. While they can live outdoors, black shepherds should primarily be kept indoors so they can regularly interact with their people and stay close to them. In addition, because of their high social needs and potential to develop separation anxiety, they thrive in families where someone is at home often and able to keep them company. However, when compared to other varieties, black German shepherds are quite rare and hard to come by. Finding a reputable breeder might require a bit of research on your part, but all the extra effort will pay off in the long run. Since black German shepherds are rare and in demand, be mindful of puppy mills and unethical breeders who just want to make a quick buck. However, the exact price depends on a lot of factors, namely the breeder, supply and demand in your area, and pedigree and quality of both parent breeds. Black German shepherds make wonderful family pets and companions. Naturally loyal and devoted to their owners, they like to be close to their people and spend lots of time by their side. Plus, due to their protective nature, black German shepherds make excellent watchdogs and will always feel the urge to watch over you and your family. The black German shepherd is a rare and absolutely stunning color variation of a standard German shepherd dog. Loyal and protective of their owners, these dogs make fantastic family companions and can also serve as vigilant guard dogs. If you want to bring a black shepherd pup home, be prepared to: Exercise your pooch for at least one hour every day Start training and socialization from a young age Groom your dog at least three times a week Do you own a black German shepherd dog? What do you like the most about your pooch? Share your experience owning this gorgeous dog with us and our readers in the comment section below! Related Article:. However, the black German Shepherd is much less well-known. This coloration is extremely rare and not currently recognized by most major kennel clubs. But they have since grown significantly in popularity. Usually, German Shepherds have a single coat pattern — black and tan. However, fully black German Shepherds do exist. This is not due to crossbreeding; the gene for completely black coats is carried by purebred German Shepherds. It is much rarer than the usual coloration, though. They have the same build and grow to be the about same size as a purebred German Shepherd. Males usually weight between 65 to 90 pounds, while females are 50 to 75 pounds. These are considered medium-to-large dogs, so consider whether you have the space before adopting one. Their height is around inches. This is correct for both males and females. Black German Shepherds are completely black. Most German Shepherds have at least a little bit of black on them. However, German Shepherds have nothing but black. Their coat is generally the same besides for their different in coloration. Their double-coat helps them stay clean and warm. As working dogs, these canines are built to work, and it shows. This coat color is accepted by the AKC. It is also not the result of crossbreeding, as some misinformation may state. Instead, it is simply a rare color that very few German Shepherds end up with. It only showed up recently and is sometimes encouraged through selective breeding. While the gene for a solid black coat was once though to be recessive, many people now consider it to be dominant. These dogs always have dark-colored eyes. Blue eyes are extremely rare and usually a sign that a dog has other breeds in his pedigree, such as Huskies. Other than the color, the body of black German Shepherds looks just like his black and tan cousins. As in all German Shepherds, the ears are typically erect, though floppy ears in adult can be seen occasionally. History By , the generalized herding dogs of Europe had split themselves into a few different distinctive breeds, including the German Shepherd. During the s, there was an attempt to standardize dog breeds and promote traits that encouraged sheep herding, including speed, strength, endurance, and intelligence. However, varieties still existed from place to place. Slight breeding difference had led to slightly different shepherds. During the industrial revolution, the need for sheepdogs decreased along with the predator population. Luckily, by this point, people were already recognizing the intelligence and ability of the previous herding dogs. From this dog the breed standard grew. In just a few generations, the German Shepherd was one of the most populous in the world. Honrand fathered many puppies. Nearly all German Shepherds today are descended from him. There was quite a bit of inbreeding that occurred to produce the German Shepherd breed we know today. The Black German Shepherd has likely existed to some extent since the breed was produced. However, many dogs do not carry the completely black gene. Many completely black German Shepherds in the past were likely culled at birth due to the defect. Today, the gene is seeing a reoccurrence. Personality and Temperament The German Shepherd is often considered to be an aggressive dog. However, this is not completely true. They do have significant protective instincts, as they were originally bred to guard flocks of sheep. For instance, the German Shepherd has a bite force of over 1, newtons. But there are several dogs that rank around this as well, including the Rottweiler, Pit Bull, and Labrador Retriever. Most dogs at about this size are going to have a similar bite strength. German Shepherds are considered to be moderately active. They need just about as much exercise as dogs of a similar size. This breed is well-known for being heavily devoted to their people and easy to train. When trained properly, they will absolutely listen. However, they do have innate protective instincts. If you want to dog that is going to be protective of their family, this is a great choice. These canines do need extensive socialization starting at a young age, though. Otherwise, they can become a bit too protective of their family and territory. These canines are not the friendliest. They are people-oriented, but not with strangers. They tend to be quite unsure with strangers. At best, they usually ignore them completely. Other times, they may be obviously uncomfortable. German Shepherds have high prey drive. On the one hand that means that you can easily motivate them with a ball or tug toy. On the other hand, it requires a lot of supervision for owners that have small dogs or cats in addition to their shepherd. While your dog might not outright try to fight with a cat or smaller dog, he could even accidentally hurt them during play. They are extremely intelligent and devoted to their owners. Unlike some dog breeds, they will listen to their owners in most real-life situations. They can learn a variety of different commands very easily and will actually do them when asked. However, these dogs do need the training. Without it, they can be overly protective and even potentially dangerous. Their ease of training does make fulfilling this need quite easy, though. We do recommend puppy classes starting at a very young age. These classes provide the extra socialization that your dog needs, as well as allows you to jumpstart their training. We only recommend private classes for dogs that are too reactive around strangers and other dogs to thrive in a group class. Usually, only German Shepherds who were not properly socialized as puppies will fit into this category. If you adopt an older German Shepherd that seems in need of socialization, we recommend taking private classes with an experienced trainer. You can work your dog through some basic commands and then work on socializing them with safe people and dogs. The trainer should be able to help you in this regard. The German Shepherd is a more active breed, and completely black German Shepherds are not different. While there are more active dog breeds out there, these canines are best for those that are quite active. They need at least two medium-to-long walks per day. Puppies will likely need some extra play sessions as well. Health and Care German Shepherds are pretty healthy as far as purebred dogs come. However, they are prone to some health problems. Many of these are due to the inbreeding that occurred early in the breed, which made some previously rare traits more common. Black German Shepherds are not known to have any more health problems than their black-and-tan cousins. Their coat coloration is not associated with any particular health issues or anything of that sort. It is important to purchase these dogs from a qualified breeder, as they tend to perform plenty of health testing on any dog they plan on breeding. This helps them recognize health problems and pick only the healthiest dogs possible for producing litters. We do recommend purchasing a German Shepherd that was bred as a working dog — not one produced as a show dog. These two lines of dogs are somewhat distinct as they have been bred for two very different purposes. Show dogs tend to confirm to an extreme extent to the breed standard, which increase the amount of health problems they develop. On the other hand, working dogs were bred with practicality in mind. Many German Shepherds have hip and elbow dysplasia. This disease occurs when the ball and socket of the joint do not line up correctly, leading to excess wear-and-tear. Eventually, this cause arthritis-like symptoms, but at a much earlier age than arthritis typically shows up. Usually, this damage occurs during puppyhood when the dog is growing, but they may not show symptoms until a few years later. There are a few things pet owners can do to reduce the chance of hip and elbow dysplasia in their German Shepherd. Many of these dogs are also affected by degenerative spinal stenosis. However, this study had a notably small sample size, so it may not be entirely accurate. On a good note, German Shepherds are actually less likely to get ear infections than other dogs. Degenerative myelopathy occurs often enough in German Shepherds that they are likely predispositioned to it. This test is very expensive, so many breeders perform it on their dogs before breeding as well as on the puppies after they are born. Once the test is used regularly, it becomes very easy to remove it from the breed. Von Willebrand disease also occurs at a higher level in German Shepherds than in the normal dog population. It is likely that they are genetically predispositioned to it. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency occurs in German Shepherds as well. This condition is usually treated with medication and pancreatic supplements. It is most likely genetic, so health testing and keeping track of pedigrees is important to eliminating it in the breed. Medium-coated dogs will only need brush two to three times a week. Long coats will need combed through at least once a day to prevent mats. Because of their double coat, dogs of all coat types will shed profusely. Do not adopt a black German Shepherd unless you can deal with a lot of extra hair. Even if you brush your dog daily, they will still shed everywhere. Usually, this occurs in the spring and fall, but it can depend on your local climate. Shedding is also tied to hormones — not just the weather. There is little you can do to reduce the overall amount of shedding your dog does. However, anti-shedding shampoos and a high-quality diet can help. It is usually not too difficult to find a normal German Shepherd breeder somewhere near you. However, not all breeders produce black dogs. Most will also be significantly more expensive than a black-and-tan German Shepherd due to their rarity. Many people want a black German Shepherd, which means that you often have to be prepared to pay a bit extra. However, this is still much cheaper than you might expect for a large dog. As a common breed, they are usually cheaper than most. It may be tempting to cut corners and purchase a cheaper puppy. However, this is not recommended, especially when it comes to German Shepherds. These puppies need socialized from the moment they are born. Often, breeders put in this time and effort. We highly recommend only purchasing puppies form very experienced breeders. Otherwise, you may end up with an unsocialized puppy and a troublesome temperament. You should always ask about the pedigree of the parents, as well as the health testing the breeder has done. Ask to see the parents if at all possible. Sometimes, the father will be located somewhere else, so only the mother will be at the breeder. In this case, it is usually fine to just see the mother. You can tell a lot about a breeder form how they keep the mother and the puppies, so be absolutely sure to ask to see their living conditions. The parents should be AKC registered, so you should ask for registration. But AKC registration does not mean that the dog is high-quality. Every German Shepherd can be registered — even those with no health testing. Preferably, you should have owned at least one dog before. It is recommended that you have some experience with more active dogs, as well. These dogs are quite active and tend to be high-energy. Without the appropriate amount of exercise, they can easily become destructive. In fact, most of the destructive behavior associated with a German Shepherd is due to a lack of stimulation. German Shepherds require extensive training as well, so it is best if they have a handler that has previously trained dogs. They will take up a few hours a day as puppies and require as much as an hour or two of exercise alone. Many of these canines are more expensive than their black-and-tan counterparts. However, they have won the hearts of many pet owners. It will often take you a little bit before you locate a completely black puppy, so be prepared to sit on a few waiting lists. Despite their unusual colorations, these dogs are very similar to all other German Shepherds. They have the same temperament and work great as guard dogs. You have to prepare to train and socialize them properly. They require quite a bit more work than other breeds, but it is absolutely worth it in the end. We recommend these dogs for serious dog owners who have previously owned dogs. German Shepherds are not for the casual dog owner. They need someone who can commit to their training and activity needs. Author: Kristin Kristin was born in Tennessee and currently lives there with her husband and children. She is passionate about educating pet parents and helping them make the best possible decisions for their pets. She currently owns one dog, two cats, a lizard, and a variety of fish. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.
They are intelligent, patient and well-mannered companions who often have funny personalities and a love of children. Despite their aggressive looks, they are calm and friendly so they do not pose a threat as long as they are properly trained and socialised from a young age. Their unique look has led to some common health issues, so be sure to educate yourself before committing to owning one. Neonatal During the first 4 weeks of your Bulldog's life, they should spend most of their time with their mother and litter-mates. It is highly unusual for the puppy's owner to care for them during this time and is best left to a responsible, reputable breeder. Your puppy's body will double in weight as their muscles, organs and bones develop. Nutrition During the neonatal stage, your Bulldog puppy will get most of their nutrition from their mother's milk. At around 4 weeks introduce a few dry kibbles mixed with warm water to your puppy. Health During this time it is important to monitor your Bulldog for any infections, diseases or birth defects. Puppies are unable to urinate or defecate by themselves initially, so their mother helps them but may additionally require your assistance. Keep your vet's contact details close by and educate yourself thoroughly on this stage of puppy development. By the end of this period, your puppy will be mobile and will explore the world mouth first — be sure to keep choking hazards and toxic foods out of their reach. Behaviour During most of this time your Bulldog will be asleep or inactive, but they will soon be playing with their brothers and sisters. After weeks they will go through as much sensory development as a human baby does in a few months. It is important to avoid disturbing the puppies' mother as she will be likely be protective, but some interaction with the young pups is normal so they become used to human touch. Weaning When you take your English Bulldog home usually at around weeks you should provide them with lots of stimulation and attention. This is a formative time for your puppy and will be when they learn to walk, play, bite, hold their bladder, and interact with others. English Bulldogs are intelligent and crave affection but are stressed by loud voices, so do not scold them excessively or they will likely run away from you. Establish boundaries early as your puppy will only become more stubborn as they get older. Nutrition During the weaning stage, you should slowly introduce into their diet a nutritionally complete dog food which is appropriate to your Bulldog's moderate size and young age. This breed tend to be greedy eaters so care should be taken to avoid overfeeding them to prevent bloat. Monitor their bowel movements for oddities as they may require a special diet. You should also familiarise yourself with lists of toxic foods and plants to avoid. Colostrum, rich in natural antibodies, proven to enhance immune response 2. DHA from omega-rich fish oil helps nourish brain and vision development 3. Colostrum proven to balance intestinal micro flora, helps protect your puppy from common intestinal upsets 4. Highly digestible quality ingredients for superior nutrient absorption 5. Easy rehydration of kibble for weaning 6. Scientifically proven antioxidants to boost immune defence 7. No added artificial colours, flavours and Know more Health During this time you should provide your puppy with a small, shallow bowl of clean water and refresh the contents frequently. Regularly touch your Bulldog puppy between their wrinkles as this will become a necessity later in life — many Bulldogs get skin infections if they do not have special lotion applied to their skin. Monitor your puppy's breathing during play and allow regular breaks to avoid exhaustion. Behaviour Due to the changes in their environment, your Bulldog will be under a significant amount of stress. It's important that you provide lots of attention and affection, however, due to their stubborn nature you should establish your dominance early. It is recommended that for Bulldog puppies you should normalise taking things from their mouth and removing food from their bowl to avoid possessiveness later in life. You should also start toilet training and leash training early to avoid bad habits forming. Puppy By the time your English Bulldog reaches puppyhood their personality will be well developed and you will have an easy-going and fun friend. Your bulldog will be relatively energetic and enjoy playing tug-of-war, but care should be taken not to overly exert them on hot days or they will have difficulty breathing. Nutrition Your Bulldog puppy's diet should be based around a high quality, nutritionally complete puppy food. It is particularly important that you make sure you do not overfeed your pup as Bulldogs can become incredibly lazy. No added artificial colours, flavours and preservatives Know more Health English Bulldogs are moderately energetic but are quickly exhausted, so only take short and relatively brisk walks with them when the weather is not hot or humid. Many develop breathing problems due to their short snout, and they don't do well in humid climates as they may develop skin conditions. You can keep them cool on a hot day by bringing them into an air conditioned room. After around 8 weeks your puppy will be due for some vaccinations, so they will need a checkup at the vet and to arrange for boosters after that. Behaviour English Bulldogs are friendly, but even as puppies they can be intimidating or act aggressively around strangers who invade their personal space. You can combat this by taking them to obedience classes and getting them into good habits early. Training your Bulldog early to release things from their mouth is essential as they have incredible jaw strength from their heritage as bull fighting dogs. Discourage jumping from ledges and stairs as these can result in long-term shoulder and back problems. Recommended Articles. Given that they are experts in the field of animal health and welfare, they will know the best meal schedule for your dog. This is one of the simplest methods to keep your Bulldog happy and healthy. Therefore, by choosing the best food for your beloved buddy to eat, you could extend its life span! Some examples of dry dog food are dog biscuits, kibble, and flaked cereals. Before serving dry dog foods to Bulldogs, warm water or broth is frequently added to this to improve the texture and enhance the flavor. Canned Wet Food: Canned wet food is sometimes preferable to dry food because it has a lot more moisture and thus will keep your dog hydrated. Moreover, wet dog food is also more likely to be appreciated by your English Bulldog puppy because it is usually more flavorful. However, wet food may increase the likelihood of dental issues. Homemade Diet: Homemade diets can help you save money. This diet also allows you to have more control over the macronutrients your dog consumes. As a result, with a homemade diet, you can rest assured that your dog is only consuming the best ingredients. Raw Diet: Raw dog food can be purchased as a frozen log, or it can simply be prepared at home. However, keep in mind that it should be prepared using quality meat and healthy fats. When it comes to choosing the right food for a Bulldog puppy, you need to be sure that it has high-quality protein to allow its body to function properly. If you accidentally drop something on the floor, these canines will gobble it up. However, some foods are incredibly toxic and dangerous for English Bulldogs to consume, even in small amounts. Here are some foods that you should avoid feeding your Bulldogs: Chocolate: This delectable human food includes theobromine , a poison that impairs the kidney, heart, and other important organ functions of a Bulldog puppy. If consumed in large amounts, xylitol can cause severe liver damage to your Bulldog. Raw Bread Dough: This is extremely poisonous. Milk and Other Dairy Products: Providing milk and other dairy products could lead to puppy diarrhea and other digestive system problems. These human foods may also set off food allergies, which may result in crusty scabs around the mouth of your dog. Grapes and Raisins: These may be enticing to dogs as treats or snacks, but they could also contain mold and fungus, which can result in gastrointestinal discomfort, seizures , lethargy, or kidney failure. Tomatoes: These contain tomatine , a poisonous alkaloid that can cause muscle weakness, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of coordination, and seizures. Avocado: This tasty human food contains persin, which takes dogs some time to digest. It may cause severe stomach pain, breathing problems, and a buildup of fluid in the chest. Mushrooms: If your English Bulldog puppy consumes wild mushrooms, you should treat it as an emergency because it can result in neurological symptoms, kidney and liver failure, and even death. Macadamia Nuts and Walnuts: These delicious Hawaiian treats rank among the most hazardous human foods for dogs. These nuts can cause hind legs to become paralyzed for anywhere between 12 and 24 hours after consumption. Aside from the listed foods, there are other foods that your Bulldog puppy should stay away from. Therefore, when your dog transitions from a puppy to an adult dog and also when they get closer to seniority, it makes sense to switch to a different diet. It could take some trial and error to find the best food for them. You can use the following transition chart as a guide for your English Bulldog puppy: Day. So, unless you want an overweight, unhealthy, stinky, bulldog, let's establish a few rules. While not always practical, this is very manageable. If your bulldog does not know what you are eating, then they not interested in what you are eating. This will also keep them from loitering around your kitchen and dining areas. It can cause hot spots on their skin. And, they will eventually prefer your food over theirs, keeping them from getting proper nutrition. Do not give in the temptation of their adoring big eyes and little pink tongue hanging out. Trust us, all of you will be much happier in the long run. These sheets project the kind of food, the number of feedings per day based on an expected rate of growth and maturity. This makes it much easier, but still may not be entirely right for your dog. Please, consider the BIG picture here. Choosing the right food for your bulldog will bring a lifetime of benefits. While the right food may cost more per feeding, it usually will save you lots of money in the long run. If your French, American, or English Bulldog is healthy due to a proper bulldog diet, you will avoid many unnecessary trips to the vet, additional supplements, and unnecessary medications. Supplements and medications cost much more than a good bag of bulldog food. We have found that bulldogs seem to do best with lamb, fish, or beef based foods. Many bulldogs have allergies to chicken, so we tend to avoid these. Choose a balanced food, with the right amounts of protein, carbohydrates, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals. This article will not focus on dry vs. A future blog will tackle all of these in detail. Your bully's food should feature all of the following: Antioxidants Animal protein sources, for the best amino acid ratio and superior digestibility A blend of omega fatty acids for healthy skin and a shiny coat Natural fiber ingredients to help maintain optimal digestion and intestinal health Glucosamine and chondroitin to help support healthy joints DHA Docosahexaenoic acid No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy For adult bulldogs, we recommend that you use the Large Breed formula, if offeredeven if you have a smaller bulldog. This formula will help with your dog's weight management and overall nutritional needs. Bulldog Grade does not, however, always recommend feeding your bulldog as much as the manufacturer may suggest. This simply may be too much food. For instance, our 2. According to the back of the bag, we should feed her between cups per day. No way, she would be HUGE! She eats one cup in the morning and one cup in the evening. This is plenty of food for her and easily satisfies her. In other words, she is content and does not beg for food or wait by her bowl between feedings. She is at her proper weight, according to her vet. She is very healthy. All signs that she is getting the right amount of food at each meal. RULE 3: Choose Supplements Wisely Good food should provide just about everything your bulldog will need, so there is little need for additional supplements. Many supplements are full of junk, go rancid, add extra calories and fat to the diet, cost a LOT of money, and do not have many positive benefits. However, if you live in certain climates, maybe where it is warm year round, your bulldog will shed more than usual. Or, you may find you need something extra for tear stains, hot spots, etc. Please do your homework, and remember: less is more! The only supplement we add to their diet is organic coconut oil. Just a tablespoon per day keeps our bulldogs shedding under control, keeps their coats puppy-soft, and adds a few nutrients that are beneficial to them. Ever since we introduced this many years ago, with previous bulldogs , we have not had any tear stain issues: zero hot spots, no other skin issues. Is coconut oil a miracle? No, not really. But, when paired with very high-quality dog food, it seems to help our bulldogs. It should be out the kitchen, easily accessible and climate controlled i. There is a sink to fill her water bowl quickly, and the floor is not carpeted, making it easy to clean up and keep sanitary. Bulldogs do tend to drip a lot of water after drinking. Some drool while eating. These mats can absorb up to 1. They do help keep the area around her bowls clean. This will assist their breathing, chew rate, and ability to swallow while feeding. It will also promote proper digestion and minimize burping. This can easily be achieved with a set of elevated, stainless steel bowls. Don't skimp here. Your bulldog loves to eat, so make it as healthy and enjoyable of an experience as possible! Dirty dishes lead usually have harmful bacteria, which can lead to chin bumps, gastrointestinal issues, and other health issues. It only takes a minute to rinse the bowls out with hot soapy water after a meal. We also clean and sterilize them in the dishwasher at least 2X time per week. Treat them with love, respect, and as you would your children. They deserve the best, as you now have the best dog on the planet. Spend an extra 30 minutes a day with them, giving them your undivided attention. Love them, hug them, and most of all take fantastic care of them! We hope this is helpful. If it is, and you'd like to hear more from us please join our bulldog community at BulldogGrade. This food appeals to those who pay attention to where their food comes from. Halo contains fatty acids and antioxidants but no DHA like most puppy foods. This recipe also contains legumes peas , which are ingredients of concern in canine diets, as we mentioned in a previous review. However, as we mentioned earlier, those fancy terms are primarily for advertising, not an actual reflection of the nutritional quality of the food. Also, grain-free diets come with their own cause for concern due to the high legume content. Although pet food makers use various sources for protein, dogs tend not to care whether the meat in their diet is cage-free or what form it comes in whole, meal, or by-product. English Bulldogs are prone to obesity, which is not healthy for any dog but is particularly dangerous for this breed. Flat-faced dogs, including Bulldogs, are prone to breathing issues related to their unusual anatomy. Being overweight makes these problems worse. Most foods come with a suggested feeding guide, but to be safe, ask your vet to help you calculate the ideal daily calorie intake for your bulldog. Your food choice may be somewhat dictated by any emerging medical concerns your pup is experiencing. Allergies, with their accompanying skin and ear problems, are one of the most common issues. We listed several allergy-friendly diets on our list for this reason. Do Your Research Before You Buy A Puppy Yes, you want to feed your English Bulldog puppy a healthy diet, but food can only do so much if your little dog comes with a host of inherited medical conditions. Our best value pick, Purina One , is both cost-effective and convenient. Royal Canin Bulldog features breed-specific nutrition. Merrick Classic Healthy Grains is free of ingredients from China and loaded with nutritious extras perfect for the Bulldog. We hope our reviews of these puppy diets help you navigate the crowded landscape of the pet food industry as you search for the best option for your wrinkly baby dog. She got her first cat at 5 years old and at 14, she started working for her local veterinarian. Elizabeth spent more than 20 years working as a veterinary nurse before stepping away to become a stay-at-home parent to her daughter. Now, she is excited to share her hard-earned knowledge literally--she has scars with our readers. When not writing, she enjoys reading, watching all sports but especially soccer, and spending time outdoors with her family.Read more Advertisement. The potential benefits of raw Swapping Puppy Food Brands When you first bring your Bulldog puppy home you should feed him the same food that he was getting from the breeder or shelter for about three to four weeks. This will give him time to acclimate to his new surroundings and get used to being separated from his mom and siblings. Mix about three-quarters of the puppy food he eats now with one-quarter of the new food for the first two to three days. For the next two or three days give him equal portions of the old and new food. Finally, give him three-quarters of the new food and one-quarter of the old food for two to three days. Bulldog Puppy Diets The sheer number of different puppy foods to choose from can be overwhelming. Your breeder may be able to give you some guidance. Puppies need plenty of protein to promote strong bone, muscle, and joint growth. Guidelines on labels will give you an idea of the amount to feed your puppy, but ultimately each dog is an individual. Their body size, not what the label says, is a better indicator of a proper portion. A serving size can also vary depending on the type of food or brand as well. Special Requirements Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed. Chewing and swallowing can also be a problem. This is because the palate, teeth, tongue, and tissue are the same size as that of a dog with a much longer muzzle. Many Bulldogs also suffer from brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome which causes serious breathing issues that can also make eating difficult. You might also find combining dry food with a good quality wet food is easier for them to consume. From three to six months, you can reduce it to three times a day. At six to 12 months old, you can feed him twice a day. Bulldogs are highly at risk for hip dysplasia. In fact, this study of 20 English Bulldogs found that none of the hips showed normal development and .Feeding a Bulldog Puppy Kibble Dry kibble is probably the most popular all-round puppy food choice. Make sure you choose a dry formula designed specifically for puppies. However, not all brands are created equal. Stay away from ingredients like corn. It is very important to keep in mind that English bulldogs are somewhat different to most breeds. And correct feeding technics are of utmost importance during and after their full development. Your English bulldog puppy does not know anything about nutrition. He only knows what tastes good. It is up to you to know what and how to feed your buddy, so he will get everything he needs to stay healthy and happy. Best Diet for English Bulldogs Best Nutrients for English Bulldog Puppies Your English bulldog puppy needs proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals for uptime growth and health Your puppy uses proteins for growth and repair of muscles, bones and other bodily tissues. They are also used for production of antibodies, enzymes and hormones. Vitamins and minerals participate in muscle and nerve function, bone growth, healing, metabolism and fluid balance. English bulldogs also need plenty of fresh, clean water. Adequate water intake also helps prevent formation of urinary stones, which is a potential problem for this breed. Food Brands for English Bulldogs We recommend to new English bulldog families to avoid drastic changes in the food of the puppies. We recommend the puppy keeps using the same food the breeder used before delivery. In our case, we like to use Royal Canin Bulldog Puppy. We have used several other brands over the years. And, so far, Royal Canin has worked great for our puppies and adults. When feeding our English bulldog puppy, we take into consideration several factors. Such as the amount of protein and fat they should receive in the first few weeks of age. There are other brands in the market that may provide the same or similar amount of protein and fat. However, you should consider important things such as ingredients of the food, allergies it might cause. As professional breeders of English bulldogs, we always let our clients know about the food we give to our puppies. In addition to other supplements that we use. That way, the new owners of the English bulldog puppies can continue with the same process. But, we do understand that a lot of times people may decide to go a different route. Both for the type of food and feeding technics. Sometimes, based on what they may consider, it is correct or better for their English bulldogs. Or perhaps after receiving veterinarian advice. Our recommendation is to continue to use the one we use. Feeding Frequency for English bulldogs The number of times you feed an English bulldog puppy is also very important. The younger the puppy is, the more often one has to feed the puppy. For breeders, it is a lot of work due. Mainly due to the fact that we have to care for the puppies since day one. We have to rigorously continue feeding them at least every two 2 hours. Usually, when we release our puppies; they will be at least eight 8 weeks old. And they will be eating solid food. At this stage, it is recommended to feed the puppies three 3 times a day. Once in the morning, afternoon, and early evening. Sometimes due to a matter of schedule or advice from friends, breeders or veterinarians; families will feed the puppy two 2 times a day. This will make things a little easy for the family training the English bulldog. If this is the case, the correct amount of food should be provided to the puppy. Always based on their body weight as well as the age of the puppy. A feeding guide or table should be available to you on the bag of food you use. In most cases it is recommended for an English bulldog to be on the puppy formula for the first year of life and then a gradual change to an adult formula containing the same nutrients should be given. It is important to keep in mind that if you as an English bulldog puppy owner encounter any issues with your dog such as allergies or other common illnesses among bulldogs, then veterinarian advice should be taken. Should I give supplements to English Bulldog Puppies? This food will provide the puppy with the nutrients needed to have a long, healthy life. But as breeders, we use other things to supplement the diet of our English bulldogs so that we can keep them away as much as possible from common illnesses among them. The use of the right type of supplements from an early stage in the development of the dog is key when raising English bulldogs than with a lot of other breeds. This is due to the fact that English bulldogs have a weaker skeletal system and a lower immune system than other breeds. Having the presence of supplements will help the puppy to develop into a healthier adult. Eggs, cod liver oil, chicken breast, some vegetables are also great for them. Along with the food we use, we also recommend the multi vitamin NuVet. It helps with a lot of the common issues the English bulldog breed encounters during their life. For detail information on NuVet and how to order instructions, please visit our website and click on the link on top that says NuVet. If you think you still have questions about the right food to feed your English bulldog puppy or the correct supplement or multi vitamins you can use; please feel free to contact us. Remember that English bulldogs are the best breed in the world; therefor quality food, treats and supplements are ideal when having them as pets. Share this post.
golden retriever puppies puppies - And, along with all the joys, you may have a few new puppy jitters too. I get it! In other words, I am over the moon for Doodle dogs. Now what? Choose your veterinarian and make a new puppy appointment. As your Goldendoodle becomes a senior, your vet may suggest twice yearly well check visits. Your veterinarian is an essential part of helping your puppy live the happiest, healthiest, and longest life possible. But how do you choose a veterinarian? For a veterinary clinic to become AAHA accredited, they are assessed on standards for veterinary care. Also, you can ask friends, family, and other dog parents for recommendations on vets, check out veterinary websites, and visit the veterinary offices. Schedule a new puppy vet visit. When we called our veterinary office, the care team asked for some basic information about the puppy so they could get her records set up. This way we could rest assured that our puppy was in good physical health, on track for vaccinations, and had the proper testing for parasites and worms. For example, our new puppy had hiccups. Finally, we could ask our vet about the proper nutrition for our puppy, how much to feed each day, and get expert answers on puppyhood — everything from tips on potty training to puppy socialization. The list of veterinary specialty services sounds much like the specialty services that we receive as humans. Why do I bring this up? With so many advanced veterinary resources available—much like humans use insurance to cover the healthcare costs—you may want to investigate pet insurance. Since there are so many insurance options to research, doing your homework ahead of time makes sense. Also, from my research, the younger your puppy is when you enroll, the lower your monthly payment will be. Alternatively, if you are unsure about insurance, you may want to consider putting money aside each month to cover unexpected emergencies or life-saving procedures that may be down the road. Start planning your new schedule. What will your schedule look like when your new puppy comes home? Who will be available to care for your puppy? Every family has different daily routines, so arranging a schedule looks different for everyone. If there is more than one family member in the household, perhaps you can flex your schedules. Prepare your home and start new habits. Dropping backpacks by the door or leaving socks on the floor is real life. Yes, many Goldendoodles—and other Doodle dogs—are notorious sock thieves. Scratch grapes and raisins off the shopping list because they are a hazard for dogs. Clear the coffee table a. Buy the lidded trash cans for the bathroom that are dog-proof. Make sure your kitchen trash cans are not where puppies can get them. In addition to preparing your home, you may want to puppy proof your car too. I know a lot of people put packs of sugarless gum in their car console. Order your new puppy supplies. Crates and puppy toys and water bowls and leashes and collars. The list of puppy supplies is long. For a complete list of new puppy supplies, please check out my new puppy check list. You can also visit our Goldendoodle Supplies store. Here you will find puppy supplies that we have used and recommend. Determine you puppy space—a designated puppy area. This one was big for us. When our new puppy first came home, we thought we had a puppy space the family room with puppy gates to block off the other rooms determined. So we MacGyvered a solution by sectioning off a smaller area of the family room using our new three-panel wooden dog gates and our L-shaped couch to make a play area. For example, we could easily observe when our puppy started to wander away from us, lost interest in toys, or started sniffing. These were all her signs that she was just about to go potty! Set up your puppy supplies. For example, if you bought a new crate, assembling it now will be easier than when you have a curious puppy helping you. Rest up! New puppies have tiny puppy bladders and need to go out at night to go potty. Choose a designated area outside for puppy potty training. Determine where your puppy will sleep. More than likely, your puppy is used to sleeping next to puppy siblings, listening to puppy sounds, and feeling the warmth of her mom and puppy brothers and sisters. Since dogs are so social, for our puppy, we wanted to provide reassurance that we were nearby. We decided that our new furry family member would be safest in a crate. But the crate would be placed next to the bed so that our puppy could feel close to us—her new pack. Plus, we could comfort her with the sound of our voices or a gentle touch. Also, we placed a Snuggle Puppy in the crate. I thought our puppy might see the Snuggle Puppy as a play toy rather than a calming toy, but no! Our puppy loved it! This is a day for heaps of love and time and attention. Here are some tips to help the day go smoothly. Before going into your home, allow your puppy the opportunity to go potty. Before you walk through the door with your new puppy in your arms, allow her a little time to explore her new puppy potty spot in your yard or green space. Even as a puppy, our week-old Goldendoodle was a little speedster, so we knew we had to keep her on leash. Start small. As mentioned earlier, rather than giving our puppy the ability to roam our home immediately, we started small. So on her first day home, we created an even smaller area using our couch and our dog gates. This allowed us to be able to sit with our new Goldendoodle puppy and also let her explore and sniff within a small space. Also, we could watch her like a hawk as well as enjoy spending time with her. We had a couple of puppy toys for her to play with and a small dog bowl of water in her improvised play area. Bond with your fur baby! Give your dog heaps of your love, attention, and time. If you take away just one tip from this article, this is the one! In fact, multiple research studies have shown that when you bond with your dog, your dog releases oxytocin—the love hormone. Our puppers are counting on us to protect them from canine diseases like parvovirus.Expect your puppy to need you. Your puppy is going to need you, want to be with you, and count on you. Puppies have years of biology telling them that being part of a pack is security. They want you. Before that big day, you can plan ahead by puppy-proofing your home, getting the puppy supplies bought, and more. I hope that even one or two of these tips will help make your day even happier. And, by being prepared, I hope any new puppy jitters quickly become new puppy joys. Preparing Your Home — The Basics Besides stocking up all of the required supplies a Goldendoodle puppy could possibly need, you should also take extra precautions to make sure that your home is properly prepared for a highly active and adventurous little puppy. Are they able to sniff around? Some of the things you should prepare in your home before the puppy arrives are: 1. Designated Daily Area Constantly looking after an energetic puppy is quite a challenge, so creating an enclosed area or room for them to live in will help you a lot. And preparing such a room before your puppy arrives is strongly advised. The designated daily area should contain a crate, some water, and food bowls, a bunch of toys, puppy treats, and some nearby cleaning products to use when needed. Designated House-Training Area As with several other types of training, house training should begin immediately after your puppy has moved in. Build a little area in the backyard of your home where the pup will be able to go do their business. Designated Sleeping Area Several studies have concluded that having your puppy sleep in a crate next to your bed and not in some other room of the house, will lead to a much more successful situation for your pup. All you really need to equip a crate with is a waterproof mat and some comforting toys or an old rag from the breeder. Remember to ask for something like that when picking up your puppy! Final Check Of Your Home As mentioned earlier, your new Goldendoodle puppy will most likely surprise you constantly with their enthusiasm and curiosity that never ends. A puppy is basically a toddler or baby, and we all know how important it is to keep all choking hazards far away from those. Their teeth, biting, chewing, and so on. And when you bring a new puppy home, remember that they might not have received any valuable training, which is why you should immediately be training when they get home to you, but even with training, you can still expect their habits of chewing and biting can be quite intense for the first few weeks. This is why I would recommend that you get a bunch of some proper puppy toys as that will be extremely beneficial for both you and your dog. The best toys for Doodle puppies include: Hard, durable chew toys. These types of toys are usually produced from hard rubber or plastic as has massagers and small recesse. Interactive toys. Chew bones. Known for being very durable, chew bones are often found with a slight flavor to make sure your puppy Is attracted to it and these toys are really great all-round products. Soft training toys. These toys should only be used for training where the toy will serve as a high-value reward for your pup after successfully completing a specific training exercise. The tips below will hopefully help you better understand what you should do in common situations new puppy owners often find themselves in. Use Comforters What I mean by comforters, is that you use something that your little pup will be able to associate with either your or their mother. It can be anything like the shape, texture, or smell of that item that invokes a sense of calm in your dog. These things combined will remind your puppy how it feels to have their mother right beside them. And other puppy owners are also giving them high recommendations. Goldendoodle puppies are highly intelligent, and will usually quickly be able to link your chosen command to bathroom time. When your dog finally does manage to do all of its business in the designated spot, even if that involves that you had to carry him all the way there, make sure you give your dog a lot of love and praise. The most important factor to a well-behaved dog is positive reinforcement. This is another thing that will make it much easier on the puppy when transitioning into this brand-new life. And cleaning up any potty mistakes will also be much easier if that area has some type of hard flooring. The safety of your puppy should always be your number one concern when having to leave them alone in the house. Wait until two weeks after the puppy has had their second round of vaccinations. As a trusted online marketplace, PuppySpot connects potential pet owners with responsible breeders and shelters across the United States, ensuring that you only deal with ethical and trustworthy sources. They can help you find the perfect puppy that fits your lifestyle and needs. Each Goldendoodle puppy comes with a comprehensive health guarantee, providing you with peace of mind knowing that your new puppy is in good health. They give back to the pet community by supporting various animal-related charities and initiatives. Overall, PuppySpot offers a convenient and ethical way to find your Goldendoodle puppy. Final Words So that was my new Goldendoodle puppy checklist, and by following even half of the advice given, you will be as prepared as you possibly can be before bringing home your new Goldendoodle puppy. Adopting a puppy and training them so they turn into great pets takes time and effort, but the result, in the end, will be worth all the hard work, as your dog grows up to be a fantastic member of your family. We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at anytime. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. Things we recommend when preparing for your goldendoodle puppy Food All of our puppies are on Royal canin med size puppy food, we transition them to Royal canin med adult food at 1 year of age. Theese are a few of our favorites! Lean treats that you get from your vet. Crates We highly recommend crate training. We like the black metal crates with a front and side door. We consider the side door a must, the crate can go so many more places in the house and car. A collar puts pressure on their developing tracheas. Here are a few that we have found that are great and long lasting! Red or black Kong - not the pink or blue that says it's for puppies - they can chew them up in no time. We put peanut butter in the Kong and give it to them in their crates; they love it! Nylabones - These are great when they are really teething, and even our older dogs like to chew on them. We have found the Dinosaur one to be a favorite for both Puppies and Adults! The Just for puppies ring bone dog teething chew toy is also a puppy favorite Chuckit - for playing ball. These are awesome! If you get a medium size, any tennis ball will fit! Just don't let your puppy have the tennis ball to chew on, it will wear down their teeth. Go Dog has fun soft toys, we aways get the ones with the chew guard! Brush The Soft Slicker brush by Safari is great for puppies, as they get older and their coat gets longer the Chris Christianson slicker brush works great! The best way to make sure your Doodle isnt matted is a metal comb. You can find it on Amazon or at a farm feed store. DVD Because our puppies are raised with the puppy culture program and come to you happy, confident, and ready to learn, we ask that all our families who get one of our puppies also watch the puppy culture dvd or vod so you can follow along with what the puppies are learning and continue it after you get your puppy home. For Heartworms Your vet will have their recommendations; but if given a choice we use heartgard or sentinel. We would NOT use trifexis as it has many side affects. We also do not recommend Lepto vaccine for puppies. Find the Rest of Our Reccomendations in the link below. Preparing for a Goldendoodle Puppy Preparing for a Goldendoodle Puppy Preparing for a new puppy is an exciting endeavor, but when the breed in question is a goldendoodle, the experience becomes an extraordinary one. However, as with any new furry addition, preparation is key. From learning more about this breed to choosing a vet and puppy-proofing your home, getting everything ready for your new goldendoodle addition can make the transition easier for you and your pup. What You Need To Know About Goldendoodles A fairly newer crossbreed that emerged in the late s, these pups are hybrids of golden retrievers and poodles. Likely inspired by the successful crossbreeding of Labrador retrievers and poodles resulting in the popular labradoodle, the goldendoodle mix has also proven a resounding success. Goldendoodles come in four size variations: petite, mini, medium and standard. This is a highly intelligent, nonaggressive breed that thrives on pleasing their humans. Goldendoodle puppies can have different coat curl patterns, from tight coils to looser waves. Doodles are quiet, typically only barking when they feel threatened. Goldendoodle puppies love to swim, a trait inherited from their parental breeds. Prepare Your Home for a Goldendoodle Puppy Anytime you bring home a new goldendoodle puppy, some preparation is needed to make the transition easier for you and your furry addition. From puppy-proofing to training tips, it might seem a little overwhelming at first. When you set up your doodle den, make it as comfortable as possible. Introduce it to the crate in as positive a manner as possible to get your puppy accustomed to the idea of sleeping there. Goldendoodle Puppy Housing Training Tips Getting your doodle accustomed to certain behaviors at home will help make the transition much smoother. The key to proper home training, even outside of what you learn in a more structured training environment, is consistency. If there are certain behaviors you plan to implement from the outset of bringing your goldendoodle puppy home, make sure that you — and your family members — remain as consistent as possible. It takes puppies time to learn, so keep in mind that like a small child, your puppy is bound to make mistakes. This is one of the reasons you should enforce anything you do with a structured training protocol with your new pet. Remember to always use positive reinforcement for your new pup and take the time to learn its body language. Tips for Puppy-Proofing Puppy-proofing is as important as baby-proofing, as your new doodle may let its curiosity lead it to investigate anything and everything. The best thing you can do to combat any unwanted shoe or furniture damage is puppy-proof before your new puppy arrives. Being proactive in puppy-proofing will save both you and your new family member a great deal of stress when you bring your puppy home. Use puppy gates to block off any dangerous areas of the home. Get Family Members Ready for a New Furry Friend In addition to preparing your home for a goldendoodle puppy, you may need to prepare your family members as well. It can be challenging to give any new puppy space to acclimate, especially one as cute as a baby doodle. Kids especially may have issues respecting boundaries where your new pup is concerned. A daily schedule and plenty of conversations about not overwhelming your new family member are key to getting everyone on the same page. A daily puppy schedule will help everyone get acclimated and will set expectations in terms of crate training, meal and playtimes and potty breaks. One of the biggest adjustments you may have to make is that goldendoodles need lots of time for play and exercise. Try to allot at least 30 minutes a day to spending time outdoors, playing with toys, running around and learning new tricks. These dogs enjoy the mental stimulation as much as they do the physical activity. House training may be a slow-going process in terms of potty training and breaks, so you may have to be patient here as well. A new goldendoodle puppy is going to have accidents — this is a fact of life. If you plan to be away from home for long periods, consider hiring a dog sitter for the first few weeks. So once you get your puppy established with a vet and integrated into your household, consider daycare if you spend a lot of time away from home each day. Shop for a Few New Puppy Essentials One of the most fun parts of bringing home a new puppy is shopping for the essentials. This is true of toys, treats and even some types of collars and leashes. This goes for toys, food and even more expensive bedding options. Similar to their human counterparts, puppies develop their own likes and dislikes over time. What To Know About Caring for Your New Doodle Caring for your doodle puppy requires consistency and attentiveness to everything from the food you choose to the vet you feel most comfortable with. Choose a Veterinarian With Goldendoodle Experience Preparing for a goldendoodle puppy also means finding a veterinarian to care for your new puppy. When you start the search for a veterinarian, look for one with experience with this breed. Doing so ensures your local vet is more likely to be proactive with any health or genetic issues that may crop up down the road. New Pup Food Facts Anytime you bring home a new puppy, choosing the right dog food can be a matter of trial and error. If you do opt to transition to another brand, discuss it with your vet first. It may take time — and lots of patience — to transition your puppy to another food, so keep that in mind before you make the switch. This also applies to puppy treats. Any food or treat changes should be implemented slowly and with care. Keep in mind that puppies have sensitive tummies and may not take to a new food brand or type very well. So be prepared to go back to the food they were eating before the switch if the new option causes them stomach issues. Brush your pup daily and schedule a grooming appointment every six weeks or so. Failure to properly groom your doodle can result in matting, which is both painful and unsightly. Keep the at-home grooming to daily brushing and find a professional you can trust for the more extensive process. Doodle Training Is Crucial Like any puppy, your new doodle addition will likely require dog training at first to stop bad habits from forming. Finding a professional dog trainer is as essential as settling on the right veterinarian. Once you find the right person for the job, create a consistent training schedule to cover the basics. Decide if you want to engage in training at home or at a training facility. This allows it to associate certain behaviors with specific areas of the home. For instance, if part of the training process deals with meals and food access, initiating it around its own bowl might be more beneficial than doing so at another location entirely. Goldendoodle puppies are lovable and ideal for dog lovers of all types. They make for an ideal choice for families with small children and individuals who just want a canine companion to make a family of two. In fact, good dog training schools will conduct interviews before starting obedience training to develop a training plan with the pet owner. Dog Obedience Training Method: Clicker Training When it comes to obedience training, clicker training is a very popular dog training technique among certified dog trainers. Clicker training for dogs involves the use of a hand-held device that creates a clicking sound. Over time, the dog begins to associate the clicking sound with the reward. Once the dog is reliable in his obedience skills, the food rewards are given only occasionally, but the clicking continues on a consistent basis, serving as an indicator of praise for the dog. If you need a clicker, you can find them at a pet store or on Amazon. Goldendoodle training is similar to training most puppies since they are a mix between a golden retriever and a poodle, which means that rewarding with treats usually works well. Many dogs have a very high food drive. Food rewards can work well for a dog obedience training reward in these dogs. A food reward can consist of a traditional dog treat or other less traditional pet treat foods like baby carrots, pieces of cheese, cold cuts, hot dog bits, or other high-value foods. The food also serves as an effective, high-value reward for the dog. Obedience Training Methods for Dogs: Toy Rewards Dogs who have a high prey drive — like sighthounds such as the greyhound breed, will often place a higher value on toy rewards like a ball. Or use my affiliate link to find this dog toy that we have it has 11, 5-star reviews on Amazon! Toy rewards are good for the dog that would be apt to pick the toy when presented with an option between a treat and a toy. Certified dog trainers who are working with clients who undergo frequent dog training courses, such as a police dog or a cadaver dog, will typically opt to use toy and play rewards since toys can be used for specialized dog training. In essence, the working dog learns to detect drugs by seeking his toy during retrieval exercises. Obedience Training Using Praise as a Reward This approach is good when training a very people-oriented dog and in tune with his humans. When we want to reward good dog behavior, especially when house training, we use praise with food rewards. Often, praise is used in conjunction with toy rewards, clicker training, or food rewards. Occasionally, a dog trainer may use praise and attention alone to teach certain obedience training commands. In the first week you've probably already introduced your new little guy to the family, offered a tour around the new digs, made some key introductions with other housemates in their furrever home and maybe even said hello to a neighbor or two…but now what? Many new goldendoodle owners are often unprepared for what comes next and find that the honeymoon period is not always as glamorous as imagined. This is a HUGE transition both for you and for them! Many new owners will buy the best food money can buy or, more commonly, offer the same food the breeder has been using. It is very common for puppies to have a transitional period where eating is suppressed. Different factors can be at play here — homesickness, stress, or even intimidation by other household pets. We encourage you to be patient, supportive and just keep offering food — especially during those down times when things are quiet and pup is feeling settled. Eventually, your little guy will come around! This is the first night your pup has been away from littermates so he or she may spend a lot of time whining in the crate spare a tear for sibling bonding. This can last for several nights, but usually decreases with each passing night. At JLDD, we start all pups on crate training by the time they are just two weeks old. At JLDD we introduce a potty area at around three weeks old and encourage the pups to use puppy pads throughout their time with us. The smaller the area, the more likely your pup will be to use the puppy pad. In fact, confining them to just a room or two of your house at first is often a good idea in general to make things less overwhelming for them. Bonus points if your predesignated area is within direct eyeline to the outside door…that way your little guy can quickly get familiar with the way outside. Be prepared…young pups have to pee A LOT! This aspect of owning a new pup takes time and is sometimes a 2-steps forward, 1-step back process.At night, you can expect your pup to be able to go around hours at first without needing to potty…some of our bigger pups can go 8 hours from night one, but it just depends on the pup. Most will need a potty break at some point in the middle of the night for the first couple weeks—it can be tough, but fortunately they are usually able to stretch it out pretty quickly. To review, when raising a goldendoodle puppy, the best tools you can have in your belt are patience, a good sense of humor and consistency. Puppies thrive on schedules and predictable expectations, and lots of snuggles and chew toys! Doodles are very smart and learn fast, so you should see marked improved by the week, meaning that each progressive week is generally easier than the last. The transition in the first week with your goldendoodle is tough for them, but remember, they are learning that YOU are their new pack. This is a critical phase for bonding to humans and you are about to have a profoundly loyal best friend for life. You got this!
Similar services:
golden retriever puppies puppies - They are also very high energy. Labs are intelligent and well-tempered for becoming service dogs. You may have seen a Lab working as a guide dog or alongside a police officer. Labradors come in three distinct colors: black, yellow, and chocolate. There is no real difference between these sub-breeds aside from color. However, chocolate Labs and yellow Labs do tend to be favored as show dogs, while a black Lab is more likely to be raised as a hunting dog than a chocolate or yellow one. Labrador Retrievers are famous for being friendly and companionable to both humans and other dogs. This makes the Labrador an ideal breed to keep as a family dog. There are factors, however, which need to be considered before choosing a Labrador puppy. Bringing home a beautiful black Lab puppy? Check out hundreds of great black dog names here! The amount of maternal care a pup receives prior to adoption influences the adult temperament of your Labrador. A responsible breeder will not remove your puppy from its mother before it is ready. In the study, Labs belonging to extroverted owners had better social skills than those belonging to introverted owners. You may also look through your local classifieds for unregistered litters, although we do not recommend it. Even though Labradors are a generally healthy breed, it is important that both parents get screened for any health issues prior to breeding. Adopting from unregistered litters will also significantly increase your chances of encountering a puppy mill. No matter where you adopt from, it is essential that you meet both parents and access a history of good health for each parent before adopting a puppy from the facility. In other parts of the world, use the puppy search tool on the website of your regional kennel club or equivalent authority. You may also ask a local veterinarian for a reference to a quality breeder. Another option is to keep an eye out for someone with a purebred Labrador and request information on where they adopted from. Registered breeders use only top-of-the-line animals as parents. Puppies from responsible and registered breeders are given the appropriate amount of maternal care and not released to a new home until they are physically and mentally mature enough to do so. This lays the foundation for an affectionate and even temperament in adulthood. The cons of adopting from a breeder are higher costs and often longer wait times. Responsible breeders require a pre-adoption home check to ensure that their puppies are appropriately homed. You may also need to travel some distance to find the right breeder. Registered breeders usually breed a maximum of only twice per year. This maintains parental health and allows sufficient time for the puppies to progress. These breeders often have waitlists for upcoming litters before they are born, sometimes before the parents are even bred. While these practices maintain value, they also mean the puppies will cost a little more and take longer to bring home. Private Ads Private ads for puppies can be found in online classifieds or in your local newspaper. You may also spot them on the bulletin boards of various local businesses. The benefits of sourcing a puppy from a private ad is that the breeder is likely be located nearby, and the puppies will be available relatively quickly, if not immediately. The cons of taking this route is that you do not have pedigree parents to your puppy, and the risk of health complications down the road is much higher. Puppy farms will often advertise through private ads. For these reasons, we do not recommend sourcing a puppy through a private ad. Pet Shops We do not endorse purchasing puppies from pet shops, because the credentials of both parents and breeder cannot be provided. Parents of pet shop puppies may have been overbred, mistreated, or in less than optimal health. It is impossible to know without verified records. The puppies themselves could have experienced conditions and trauma that will negatively impact their behavior in adulthood, such as being separated from their mothers too soon or physical abuse. Avoiding Puppy Farms Puppy farms are unregistered breeding establishments that mass produce puppies in order to generate the highest amount of revenue. These farms, or mills, severely mistreat their animals and often produce puppies with little socialization skills and significantly increased health risks. To steer clear of these facilities, avoid pet stores, which often source stock from puppy farms because of the low cost. Also avoid any online advertisements for puppies at a low cost. If you do source a puppy from an online ad, call the breeder in advance and ask questions about the puppies, parents, and establishment to screen for any inconsistencies with industry standards. When you visit the breeder, if it comes to that, ask to have a look around and meet both parents in person. Is the space open? Do the parents look healthy? How many other dogs and puppies are there on the premises? Health Tests While Labs are generally healthy overall, it is important to confirm the parental health prior to breeding. If the breeder cannot show you certificates of health for both parents, adopting a puppy from those parents poses a risk for complications later on. The American Kennel Club recommends Labrador Retrievers get screened for: any hip and elbow defects that could indicate dysplasia heart disorders out of ordinary muscle weakness degenerative eye conditions. Make sure that the breeder can demonstrate certified health in each of these areas for each parent. The initial cost of requiring this level of screening for your puppy may be higher, but it will save you on veterinary bills down the road. Choosing Your Puppy Labrador Retrievers are friendly by nature and tend to get along well with other dogs. This breed very rarely shows aggression and must be provoked to do so. When it comes to children and other pets, a Labrador puppy would be a valuable family addition. Labs are companionable and socialize well. The Labrador Retriever is a high-energy breed and will need enough time and space each day to receive sufficient exercise. These exercise needs will continue to grow as your puppy matures. A Labrador is not designed to be an inside-only dog. This breed needs lots of activity to stay mentally and physically fit. Consider that your fully grown Lab will be between .We recommend that you take your Lab out for daily outdoor activities such as swimming and fetch. A Labrador that does not receive enough exercise time may rebel by engaging in destructive behaviors within the household. However, remember that the best-quality Labradors come from responsible breeders that produce only one or two litters per year. These breeders often have waiting lists due to high quality puppies and infrequent production. If you want the best which you should! Labradors are wonderful family dogs with lots of love for humans and other dogs. They are one of the lowest risk for health complications when properly screened, making them ideal as a long-term energy-filled companion. Considerations before jumping into the adoption of a Labrador puppy are how big your puppy will be when it reaches adulthood and the daily rigorous outdoor exercise it will require to keep it in peak physical and mental condition. Read more about Labradors here in our guide to Labrador lifespan! References and Resources Bray, E. University of Pennsylvania .Graham, L. Temperament and Personality in Working Dogs. CRC Press .Kuroshima, H. Kyoto University .Print Looking for a new gun dog or duck dog? Many people start their search with good intentions. They want to find a good quality pup that will serve as a hunting companion as well as a family dog. However, somewhere along the way they end up just picking up a cute puppy that the family could not resist. Maybe, but it is a needle-in-the-haystack approach. While there is no guarantee that any puppy you bring home is going to grow into a well-mannered hunting partner, there are ways to stack the odds in your favor. Today, we are going to discuss the process I go through when looking for a new puppy. These are my opinions, so take it for what it is worth, but I do have extensive experience buying Labrador puppies. I have been doing this for over 30 years and I rarely have a puppy that does not work out. Research puppy litters I buy my puppies based on pedigree. I want proven working parents. This means that I want to see that either the mom or dad, preferably both, have AKC retriever field trial titles , AKC retriever hunting test titles or UKC retriever hunting test titles behind their names on an official pedigree. Be sure you see field trial or hunt test titles. Sometimes you will see AKC show titles or other titles like agility. These are NOT the same as field trial or hunt test titles and are generally not something you want to see on the pedigree of a hunting or competition dog. There are many places to search for litters on the internet. And many sites offer the ability to limit your search by state. However, do not be afraid to look for puppies further away from you. If the litter has a great pedigree and is exactly what you are looking for, you can always have the puppy flown or shipped to you. Some of the sites that are good for looking for litters are: retrievertraining. Again, I am not saying that great dogs cannot come out of these places but rather that the odds are not in your favor. Why are hunting titles important? Hunting titles tell you that the dog has proven its ability to perform at a certain level. It also tells you that the genetics are there. If the parents can perform at a Field Champion or Master Hunter level, there is a good chance the puppies will also have that ability. Do all your research prior to going to look at the puppies Everybody loves puppies. They are cute, cuddly and so lovable. That is why I recommend that you do not ever go look at a litter that does not already meet your standards regarding pedigree. It is just too easy to end up bringing one home. And if you have kids or a spouse involved, I guarantee that any litter you go look at you are most certainly going to end up bringing home a puppy. Does color make a difference? Well-bred puppies are available in each of these colors, and we have trained excellent hunting dogs in each color. However, you may now see litters advertised as fox red or white. These colors are not recognized by the AKC and you should beware of purchasing a dog based solely on color. In addition, there are now Labs being sold as silver, charcoal and champaign. These litters are technically not pure Labrador Retrievers. They are often referred to as dilutes because the genetics have been diluted to produce these colors. Many trainers will not train dilutes because of the many health problems and genetic issues that go along with these breeds. There are, unfortunately, people breeding pups specifically to produce a specific color without regard for temperament and the betterment of the breed. We prefer to stay away from litters that do not have a proven pedigree and have been breed specifically for color. In addition, our experience training dogs from these types of litters has proven to be a struggle. How much does a good puppy cost? For many people this is a defining question. So, a new hunting partner can be a significant investment. But for us it is worth it to stack the odds in our favor. Find a great retriever breeder Unfortunately, not all breeders are equal. Over the years, some breeders have stood out to us as exceptional. They go over and beyond just taking good care of the puppies. You can tell they really want their puppies to turn out great and they take steps, while the pups are very young, to help ensure their puppies have a good strong foundation that will help them succeed in the future. Beyond the breeding of quality dogs, the difference is in the socialization of the puppies. As I talk extensively about in Raising a Lab puppy to be a duck or gun dog , socialization is an essential key component in training a retriever puppy. Breeders that go out of their way to socialize young pups are worth their weight in gold. The truth is that raising puppies, done the right way, takes a lot of time and commitment. We specialize in training and prefer to let others specialize in doing a great job raising litters. Ask prospective breeder the right questions When you call and talk to a breeder about an upcoming litter, it is important to get answers to some important questions. If the pedigrees are not available online, be sure and request one from the breeder. How often do you breed? How often has this mother been bred? When looking for a great hunting dog puppy, you want to avoid puppy mills. Puppy mills are breeders that are just pumping out puppies for money and without concern to the overall health and betterment of the breed. Responsible breeders have a plan for the litters they are producing and will be able to talk to you about why the litter is worth the money they are asking. What breeds do you breed? Look for a breeder that specializes in Labrador Retrievers or whatever breed you are looking to purchase. What does your health guarantee cover? Responsible breeders will offer you a health guarantee for the puppy. While what this guarantee covers may vary, with Labrador Retrievers some of the things you want to make sure the health guarantee covers includes: Hip dysplasia Eye issues In addition, you may want to make sure that the parents have been genetically tested for other genetic diseases such as Exercise Induced Collapse EIC and Centronuclear Myopathy CNM. What do you do to socialize the puppies? Asking this open-ended question can give breeders a chance to tell you about the work they do socializing the young pups before they are ready to go home. Or, you may want to follow up with more specific questions such as: Are the pups exposed to children at all? Do you take the pups to different locations during the day? Do the puppies get outside time, what does that look like? The goal is to find out if the puppies are getting socialization and exposure to new and different things on a regular basis. Pups that get this exposure tend to adjust more quickly to their new homes and new situations later in life. Have you done this specific breeding before? How did those puppies turn out? Breeders that are working for the betterment of the breed, may breed a set of parents more than once. If this is a repeat breeding, it is likely that the breeder will know how previous litters performed in the field or in competition. Serious Labrador Retriever breeders often keep track of how their puppies perform as they age. Alternatively, you could ask for references and talk to previous buyers to find out what they think of the breeder and the puppy they bought. Should I meet the prospective dog parents? While some people might tell you that you should meet the prospective parents of the puppies, I do not see a lot of value in this. Some good breeders do not own both the parents. Often, they work with other breeders so both the Dam and Sire may not be onsite. And if you are basing your pup purchase off pedigree first, as I would recommend, you already know the most important things about the parents. If looks are important to you, then photos of the parents will show you what you need to know. Choose a retriever puppy from the litter Once you decide on a litter, the waiting begins. Ask the breeder to provide videos and photos of puppies as the grow. This is a great way to see the puppies progress and you can see some personality traits in the different pups. If you did all the work in researching pedigree and breeders, you already have stacked the odds in your favor. You know that the litter is a good one and that the puppies have a good chance of turning out to be great hunting partners. This is important because it takes a lot of pressure off when it is time to pick the puppy from the litter. When you do go to the breeder to pick your puppy, take a few minutes to observe the puppies. This will allow you to see some personality traits. Understand though that this is only one snapshot in time. The puppy that is active at this time, might have been sleeping right before you showed up. Or, the one that is sleepy may have been running around like crazy just minutes before. At Otter Tail Kennels, we often look for a puppy that likes people. A puppy that chases a child around the yard or runs to the owner when they walk away is attractive to us because we want a people-centered dog instead of a dog that prefers to spend its time with litter mates. But this is not an exact science by any means. That is why we rely on the fact that we have done our homework and know the entire litter has promise. Final thoughts on how to find a good Labrador puppy Any time you set out to buy a puppy, you do not know how the journey will end. There are a lot of unknowns. You cannot tell for sure what the puppy will look like as an adult, and you cannot tell if they will be a great hunter or a great family dog. What you can do is stack the odds in your favor. Find a great litter from a great breeder and select a puppy from that litter. Once you do that, you are on your way to having a great duck or gun dog. Then the next important step is to socialize, expose and train the puppy. Read how to do that here. Have questions about finding a great retriever for your hunting and family needs? I am here to help! You can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs and services I offer. Until next time happy retrieving. How to find a good Labrador puppy. The Issue of the Silver Lab Does the puppy appear healthy? A good healthy puppy will have clear, shiny eyes that are free from discharge. Its coat will be glossy with a minimum of flaking skin. It should be alert and playful. How about its littermates and the dam? Look around at others in the litter, all should appear healthy and well fed. Look around for any fecal matter that may not have been removed yet. Is the stool well-formed or sloppy? A clean environment and robust family of dogs are very good signs! If the sire and dam are present, how do they behave? A surprising amount of behavior is inherited. The parents may be one of the best indications of the future temperament of your new puppy. Hip and elbow dysplasias are potentially crippling abnormalities of joint formation that, unfortunately, do occur in this breed. While there are several factors involved in joint dysplasias, it is well known that these are at least partly inherited. It may take several years for the painful arthritis associated with hip and elbow dysplasia to become apparent, but the joints can be checked by x-ray examination before breeding. Making sure that both parents, and as many of their relatives as possible, are radiographically free of hip and elbow dysplasia will help you to avoid this sad condition. Have the parents had their eyes examined? Unfortunately, again, some Labradors may have inherited eye defects that could lead to vision loss. Subtle changes in the appearance of the retina part of the inside of the eye can indicate that tendency. Retinal Dysplasia is generally a non-progressive eye disease that causes varying degrees of poor eye-sight, but rarely total blindness. Juvenile Cataracts are spots of abnormal coloration deep within the lens. They generally do not affect vision and are non-progressive. If interested, does this puppy have show, field, hunting, or obedience potential? Even with outstanding pedigrees, not every puppy will have the qualities sought after in the show ring, field or obedience ring. Check the pedigrees for the blending of lines that will produce the best possible animal. Ask the breeder for a certificate of vaccination stating what vaccines it has already received and when, and by whom. For adequate protection, puppies need a series of vaccinations. Check with your own veterinarian for advice. If the puppy was dewormed, what was the drug used and when was it given. If the puppy was not dewormed, was a fecal exam done? The breeder can answer whether or not the dam or other litters have had problems with worms. What type and brand of food, how much, and how often? The breeder will usually recommend a food and feeding program. It is important not to over-feed nor under-feed a growing puppy! Heartworm is spread from dog to dog by mosquitoes. The puppy should be placed on heartworm preventative at an early age, and maintained on this medicine each year throughout mosquito season. What are the terms of the guarantee if any? Have your new puppy examined by your veterinarian as soon as possible after you pick it up to assure its good health. Christmas Puppies Puppies are not good holiday gifts… Each year ads bombard us with images of adorable puppies wrapped in red bows waiting under the tree for excited children who will shower them with love and attention. But during the hectic holidays, this may not be reality. Santa knows better! A puppy may not be the perfect holiday gift. Each year ads bombard us with images of adorable puppies wrapped in red bows waiting under the tree for excited children who will shower them with love and attention. If you are considering giving a puppy this holiday season, please reconsider. Experts give the following reasons for waiting until after the holidays to bring a new dog into your life. Puppies are not something you should decide to get on an impulse. They are a lifetime responsibility that generally live anywhere from eight to fourteen years, depending upon the breed. Adult size, appetite, disposition and amount of grooming required must be carefully considered. Puppies require constant attention. During the holidays, many people are too busy to keep an eye on the new puppy to ensure that it does not get in harms way with holiday decorations, plants, and other hazards that may injure them or make them sick. It is hard to find moments in an already full schedule for training, comforting and loving an insecure puppy who needs reassurances in his new surroundings away from siblings and birth home for the first time. Overexcited children may scare the puppy or neglect it, especially if it chews new presents or has an accident on the rug. Once the holidays are over, give the owner-to-be the opportunity to research the breed of dog that best suits their preferences and lifestyle. Then together you can bring the puppy home. The pet-owning public is being duped into believing that animals with this dilute coat color are desirable, purebred and rare and, therefore, warrant special notoriety or a premium purchase price. Silver Labs.