golden retriever puppy routine

golden retriever puppy routine

Please contact us for puppy prices. But once your puppy is born and you have accepted an alphabet puppy litter and choose to back out, your deposit is subject to forfeit. Birth to weaning so if you change your mind after confirming, you are reducing the time the next family has to also prepare for their new puppy. No restrictions on AKC full registration and full breeding rights given on your haus von Wiese puppy. Final payment is due at time of puppy pick up or after delivery arrangements are scheduled, 2 days prior to flight. No additional Charge for puppy pick up in Huntersville NC. September Breeding We had a successful breeding between Lotte and Gringo. We expect our "B" litter to arrive in early November, with take home after 8 weeks of nursing taking us through New Years .The breeding took place but we need a month for the puppies to grow in utero before our vet can confirm the pregnancy. Any overflow will roll over to our Spring Cersei long coat dam litter. Paska is undoubtedly one of the most well known working dog Black German Shepherds of all time. Just as strategically as horses are bred to increase positive attributes, we are breeding in a similar style. Our goal is to save Paska's heritage and continue to produce puppies containing his well balanced temperament, drive and strong working ability. Bomber carries some of the same impressive attributes as Paska and is the product of highly accomplished and highly decorated shepherds in Germany. It is our goal to preserve both bloodlines while integrating fresh new lines from Germany to be sure of safe breeding outcome. Along with 7-week old personality and drive level testing on each puppy, we strive to match each puppy with it's family to achieve long-term fit and family harmony. Our breeding pairs are selected with great health, hips and elbows from multi generational excellence of their lineage. Scroll below to our breeding dogs and click on their Pedigeree Link to view their impressive German pedigree. Thank you to the families that are giving loving new homes to our precious black German Shepherd puppies! Please call or text to reserve your puppy. Nolan was a magnificent 4 time competitor of the German Bundesseiger. You don't want to miss this stunner! Winn-Dixie is a fabulous mix of both Unkas and Nolan. V Paska vom Salztalblick. We are hapy to include Aurora and her freshness to our breeding program. Basia is an incredible product of our exclusive breeding program from the flawless Paska bloodline. Lotte and her parents have all tested the highest for Hip and Elbow tests in Germany, A normal. Mazikeen joined us from German European Import parents. Mazikeen's coat is long, glossy and incredibly soft. Mazikeen has a sweet natured and pleasing personality who produces family companion pups. Cersei's coat is long, glossy and incredibly soft. We are proud and excited for her to join our home and our breeding program. My story started here. My best friend, my constant companion, everywhere I went, she went with me. She protected me, helped teach me about life, and was my Best friend for 16 years. My inspiration. I'm Robin.I breed long coated German shepherds. My dogs are from European countries with outstanding lines. I breed for temperaments, beautiful red and black color, quality not quantity. I am a small hobby breeder, breeding with attention to detail. My dogs live with me in my home, not outside in kennels. They are a part of our family. Feel free to visit our Ranch in Pennsylvania to see for yourself. SG1 Baldrsens Tequila is beautiful, graceful,and with great confirmation in show lines. Tequila is very protective of her family. Excellent Mother! They say the eyes are the mirror to the soul. Our Bobbie is protective of her family, a joy to be around and one of the prettiest long coat Black German shepherds I ever had the pleasure to own and love. Eve has Good Hips and Elbows, Dm test score is "A" Eve has matured into a very stunning female, highly intelligent, and is high drive with a willingness to learn. Storm is a solid black longcoat German Shepherd. She has a super wonderful pleasing temperament. She just wants to be with you all the time and has that no fear attitude. Nothing gets by this girl. She is very protective yet loves everyone. She is a true German Shepherd, loving protective, very active and playful. Not to mention absolutly stunning, This solid black girl comes from some very very large and wonderful lines, not to mention her father is a rare solid blue longcoat German Shepherd from Holland. Storm is a kind of rare dominant black, meaning no matter who she breeds with she will produce some solid black german shepherd puppies. She also possibly carries the blue gene, so bred with the right male she should produce some solid blue german shepherd puppies. All with very outgoing temperaments. Storm as a puppy about 14 weeks old Storm at about 5 months old Storm 1 year old Some of Storm past puppies Storm's Dad Brody, he is a solid blue german shepherd with an amazing long coat. German shepherd puppies for sale in Texas tx. German Shepherd puppies for sale oaklahoma. German shepherd for sale tx. White german shepherd puppies. .German shepherds for sale in Texas, german sshepherds for sale tx. We own 20 acres of land with acres of forest behind us. Please feel free to check our Facebook page for news about StormCloud Long Coated German Shepherds We have been raising both long coat also known as long hair and stock coat German Shepherd Dogs since .Presently, we are breeding large mahogany red with black long coated German Shepherds which have proven to produce stunning puppies that are healthy, beautiful and have a sound and calm temperament. Very Exciting News. The temperaments on these stunning pups will be sound, happy and calm! Absolutely just what to look for in a true German Shepherd Dog! We welcome inquiries about all our dogs. Let us know what you desire in your German Shepherd Dog. Each of the females lends something a little different to each litter. This could be color, different types of temperament, Search and Rescue abilities, etc. We invite you to come and visit us and meet our 'Pack'. Feel free to check our website often as things are ever happening! Great new photos of our Long Coat German Shepherd puppies and adults having a blast! We ship to all 50 states! Hi there. We are climbing Welch-Dickey. All rights reserved. Send email to us at stormcloudshepherds gmail. Bringing happiness and love through puppies!! Some of my story…. I have been in love with german shepherds ever since i was 20 and got my first German shepherd dog named Elsa. I decided about 10 years ago that i wanted to start breeding. I work hard on breeding only from the best lines. I breed for health, temperament, workability, beauty, and many other things. I try to stick to long coats because those are my favorite. Our goal with our breeding program is to promote healthy, sound dogs, who are suitable for any situation and be gentle enough to able to be handled by families as well. I have a variety of drives and energies and each puppy goes thru temperament testing to make sure they go to the right homes, as well as being raised on the Puppy Culture Program. I do not promote the extreme roach back shepherds. Mine either have the proper gentle slope or a more straight old fashioned back. All my dogs are part of the family. We do not have kennels, and I will never keep my dogs in kennels. That would make them very unhappy lol. Every dog i own lives in the house with us and is part of our family. I have recently acquired a nursery shed! It was bought as a shell and I am building the whole inside into puppy rooms, and after the puppies are raised indoors in my bedroom for the first couple weeks, they are then moved out to the nursery shed! They will still be in the house all the time, but they will be in the shed and outdoors when nice for a majority. I am so excited for the addition and have been waiting a long time for it!!!! My goals for are to get ALL my dogs various titles! I implement the Puppy Culture Program into our litters! Its amazing, and so much fun! I love being able to give puppies the absolute best start in their lives which will impact their whole life! Its an amazing program! Puppies are raised for the first 2 weeks in our bedroom so we can watch over them carefully and someone is always with them during that time, and during that time we also do the Early Neurological Stimulation with them. Then we move them to their bigger whelping pens which will be the nursery shed now where we play classical music and other varieties including thunderstorm all the time except bedtime when its quiet time. They learn to use the litter boxes and play with toys. We introduce to new sounds, smells, and textures daily. They are raised in our home and underfoot most of the time, and are handled all day everyday, so they get the full family setting and used to daily family activities and noises and such. This is all a HUGE learning process for me. I do my best and try my hardest at all times. I do not claim to be perfect but I always strive for perfection. I want to produce the best quality dogs I can and I want everyone to always be happy with their lifelong companions. I may make mistakes along the way, but I will always try to fix them and do better next time and move forward and take each mistake as a learning opportunity. My goal is to provide happiness and love to everyone thru my favorite dog- the German shepherd. I also provide transport for my puppies and others as well. They change so often, I cannot give a set price at any time until its actually time to book. If transport is needed to meet you someplace or take a puppy to meet you at the airport, it is the same, 50 cents a mile round trip. I will start a list in the menu at the top, of websites, or breeder names, whom I feel are deserving of recognition. Ill try to update this list whenever I think of someone or something I may have missed!

Coat Trim Cost of Veterinary Expenses You can expect to pay for the vet each year so that your dog can remain up to date with their shots. An annual visit can also make sure your dog is healthy, but you may want to take your dog in more often if they get sick or have other problems. You can get pet insurance to help cover the cost of these vet expenses. A good breeder will provide you with not only a healthy, well-socialized puppy but also support and guidance as you navigate life with your new furry friend. But with so many breeders out there, how do you know who to choose? Look for a breeder who is registered with the American Kennel Club AKC or other reputable organizations and who has experience breeding golden retrievers. A reputable breeder will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the breed and will provide you with references from past clients. A good breeder will provide support and guidance as you adjust to life with your new pet. They should be available to answer questions, offer training advice, and help you navigate any challenges that arise. Look for a Breeder with Experience Experience matters when it comes to breeding golden retrievers. A breeder with years of experience will have a wealth of knowledge about the breed and will be able to provide you with valuable insights and advice. They will know how to breed for good temperament, health, and other important traits that make golden retrievers such beloved family pets. This includes information about any genetic diseases or health issues that may be present in the bloodline. By choosing a breeder who prioritizes health and genetics, you can help ensure that your new puppy is healthy and happy. Some breeders may insist that you participate in these events if you want to purchase a puppy from them, but this is not a requirement. Choose a breeder who respects your lifestyle and preferences and who is primarily concerned with finding a good home for their puppies. The right Golden Retriever breeder depends on you as a person, but any good breeder should be able to answer any questions. You may come across the perfect puppy online, but do not commit to any dog until you can visit in person. The dog may be totally different than in their photo. In some cases, you may find that the dog does not exist. Some scammers can take photos of other dogs and collect payment for the dog. But the scammer will disappear before the buyer realizes the dog is not theirs. To avoid these puppy sales scams, always visit the dog in person before you sign a contract or make a payment. Make sure the dog looks like the pictures and that they have the temperament that you want. If you are working with a breeder, be sure to check their credentials and ask for references. You can speak to other dog owners who have gone through the breeder. Finally, do not rush into getting a dog. Conclusion While Golden Retrievers can be moderately expensive to keep over the ten to twelve years that they generally live, there are many ways that people can reduce the cost of keeping them. One of the best ways to save money while raising a Golden Retriever is to get quality pet insurance. As long as their owners are prepared to offer them financial security in the form of good food, a few well-loved toys, and some regular veterinary care, Goldens repay the devotion a hundredfold in terms of loyalty and affection for their families. Check out our list of Golden Retriever Rescue Organizations , they are listed by state. She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. This will allow your veterinarian to become more comfortable and familiar with your dog, making it easier for them to detect unusual changes. Aside from vet bills, pet insurance is an important investment that most dog owners tend to ignore. You may not be able to avoid employing the services of pet daycares, dog walkers, and others if you are going out of town or busy with work. These kinds of services are becoming increasingly popular these days. Your pet will be cared for by trained pet handlers at pet daycares. Travel Expenses: If you enjoy traveling with your Golden Retriever, you may need to pay some extra fees because many hotels do not allow pets. Dog Training: This breed has a high level of intelligence. With the right puppy training, your puppy should be able to learn a variety of tricks. Basic obedience training and socialization are important for a growing Golden puppy. Emergency Medical Treatment: Medical emergencies cannot always be avoided. Of course, these scenarios typically come at a high cost. This breed is recommended to visit a professional groomer once every 8 to 10 weeks. All these potential expenses are optional, except for emergency medical treatment. You can learn how to avoid these fees entirely as you go, which will save you even more money if you want to be practical. Make sure to talk to the breeder before adopting or buying, as not all breeders have the best intention for their puppies. They also raise funds for canine health research. Their puppies are sold with a contract for neutering or spaying as well as a registration from the American Kennel Club. This means that the quality of their dog is in their best interests. Sun-Golden Kennels — This Golden Retriever breeder operating in Wisconsin raises all of their dogs in their home, so the temperament is fairly balanced. They allow their dogs to run around inside their home and sleep beside their bed to socialize with them. They also involve them in activities such as playing ball, hiking, and swimming with other dogs. The rescue organization also houses other breeds such as the Labrador Retriever and mixed breeds like the Goldendoodle and Labradoodle aside from Golden Retrievers. Their dogs are ready for adoption and have undergone health screenings, rabies vaccinations, heartworm vaccinations, deworming, neutering, and flea and tick treatment. This shelter is open to long-distance adoption in collaboration with other regional rescue groups, as long as the adoptive family meets specific guidelines and conditions. These fees are usually used by rescues for vet bills, registration papers, and other expenses for their dogs. You can also check out our compiled list of reputable Golden Retriever breeders and rescue organizations that house purebred Golden Retrievers to help you with your search for your perfect dog. You may also want to read our ultimate dog adoption guide to ace your adoption application at any of the rescues listed above. Here are some money-saving tips for Golden Retriever owners: Make your own food and treats. Instead of buying store-bought dog food and treats for your Golden, you can learn how to make them yourself. Recommended dog food for the Golden Retriever includes chicken , healthy whole grain meals, approved veggies and fruits, and unseasoned and natural ingredients. Consider home grooming. Grooming a Golden does not have to be a difficult chore. Grooming Golden Retrievers cost a fortune when brought to a professional groomer. Your dog does not require as much grooming as many other breeds. The simple task of brushing and combing their coat will keep shedding under control and the buildup of mats and tangles at bay. Bring them to the vet regularly and keep an eye out for accidents. Because vet bills can be pricey, you must ensure that your Goldie does not suffer from any significant illnesses or injuries. Try training your own dog. Paying for dog trainers may cost you more money. If you do not want to participate in dog shows or contests, it is preferable to train your Golden yourself. This would save you a few bucks while also providing a bonding opportunity for you and your Golden. Choose quality dog supplies. It is recommended that first-time dog owners get high-quality products for their dogs. Choosing a cheaper item may end up costing you more in the long run because you may need to replace it on a regular basis. You can save money where you can, but make sure your Goldie receives the care and attention it deserves. Always remember that a healthy dog is a happy dog. A healthy Golden Retriever is not hard to maintain. With the right mindset, you could keep your pooch in tip-top shape while saving money. Keep in mind that expenses may vary based on the lifestyle you keep for your Golden. By ensuring their good health and condition as well as applying practical money-saving tips, raising a Golden Retriever is not a difficult task. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Read the full disclosure here. Golden retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States! Whether you are looking to purchase a golden retriever puppy or adopt an adult or senior golden retriever, money is often one of the first things that come to mind. Due to the huge demand for this particular breed, golden retrievers tend to cost a pretty penny. Truth be told, goldens are expensive, but they are also worth every penny! If you are looking to purchase a purebred golden retriever, you should know what to expect when it comes to the price of one of these dogs. Read on to learn more! At the lower end of this price range, you can find goldens from a home breeder without AKC documentation or health certificates. Read on for the full breakdown of golden retriever puppy prices! When buying a golden retriever, like when buying just about anything else, you get what you pay for. All of these missing costs will end up being your responsibility once you bring the puppy home and will soon add to the initial cost of buying a puppy. On the other hand, breeders who charge more for their golden puppies will likely have a higher breeding standard. This brings me to… Adopting From A Shelter Or Rescue Adopting a golden retriever from a shelter or rescue organization costs significantly less than buying a puppy from a breeder. Besides being much cheaper, adopting a golden retriever is also a more humane thing to do! These dogs too make wonderful pets and companions and are no less deserving of a loving, forever home. Another factor worth mentioning is if you adopt an adult golden retriever, you can save a lot of money on various supplies only puppies need when going into their new homes, like house training pee pads and teething toys. First-Year Average Cost Of A Golden Retriever Puppy Now that you have a better idea of the average price of a purebred golden retriever puppy, you will then need to factor in all the major supplies your new pup will need during their first year of life. Basic Puppy Supplies If you previously owned a golden retriever or a similarly sized dog, you may be able to reuse some of their supplies, such as food and water bowls, a leash, or toys. This can save you some money early on. If you have never owned a dog before, though, be prepared to shell out some serious cash! Basic puppy supplies include:. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. It is also important to understand there are different types of golden retrievers which may affect pricing. For example, if you decide to choose the lowest golden retriever cost option, those puppies almost never have the necessary 3rd-party assurances or veterinarian procedures like dewormings, vaccinations, health-tested parents, or a thorough health checkup. These missing costs and services will be your responsibility, making the total cost ultimately the same. Not to mention the added stress on you these extra expenses and issues create! Adopting vs. Please note that depending on the shelter, you may have to pay additional costs for your Golden certain shots and procedures. Depending on if the golden retriever is a boy or a girl may affect the price as well. Some male vs female golden retriever differences may make you prefer one over the other. This will ultimately save you time and money on your golden retriever price because breeders often pay lower veterinary rates than individuals do. Distemper, for example, is a highly contagious disease that attacks the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and nervous systems of dogs. Unfortunately, there is no cure — just a lot of expenses and stress which really adds to the overall cost of your Golden Retriever puppy. It is wise to ask your vet for guidance on this decision. Talk with your vet about the procedure, when you should get it done, and how much it might cost. Dental Care for Your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers, like many dogs, can be prone to dental issues such as plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. These cleanings typically involve scaling, polishing, and potentially extractions if necessary. Some insurance providers offer optional dental coverage as an add-on or as part of more comprehensive plans. If dental coverage is included in the policy, it typically covers a portion of the costs associated with dental cleanings, extractions, and other necessary dental treatments. This typically includes services such as bathing, brushing, trimming, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and sometimes additional services like de-shedding or dematting. Some groomers may offer package deals or discounts for regular appointments or bundled services. This monthly expense may seem like an additional cost, but it can be a worthwhile investment when considering the potential savings on veterinary bills for treatments, surgeries, and medications. By having pet insurance in place, you can ensure that your Golden Retriever receives the necessary care without straining your finances in the event of unexpected health issues. Puppy Training and Socialization Classes Attending puppy training and socialization classes is highly recommended for the comprehensive development of your Golden puppy. These classes provide structured learning environments, social interaction, and essential obedience training. By enrolling your Golden Retriever puppy in these classes, you ensure they receive the necessary foundation for good behavior, social skills, and overall well-being. The cost for food will depend on the size, age, and activity level of your companion. Fortunately, the cheaper brands of dog food can be just as good as the more premium brands as long as they meet the standards of AAFCO and are made with minimal processing. When making your decision, make sure to avoid artificial ingredients and preservatives where you can, since they could cause health problems for your dog. Puppies cost more than adult or senior Goldens. This holds true for all dog breeds, because there is more demand for puppies than older dogs. Age affects the adoption fee, but it does not reflect the quality of the dog in most cases. This can be thousands of dollars less than a puppy, but this does not discount the love and affection an adult can offer. Surprisingly, this dog comes in more than just gold color varieties. There are also red, cream, brown, and yellow color varieties. There will, very rarely, even be a Golden Retriever that has black-tipped ears or has a black spot on its body. These puppies have cream-colored coats and are very rare. Goldens that have black markings on their coat are often cheaper. A puppy with healthy warranties and pedigree certification will be twice as much as a puppy without them. One of the top health certifications is hip dysplasia screening. Choosing A Breeder Not all breeders put a lot of time, effort, and money into their Golden Retriever puppies. Breeder associated expenses include breeding fees if the breeder does not own both a breeding male and female , breeding license, veterinary care for mom and pups, health tests and certifications, warranty, registration, insurance, whelping and food. Golden Retrievers typically have eight puppies in each litter. Puppies that are bought from pet stores can come from large-scale commercial dog breeding operations i. Commercial dog breeding facilities should be avoided. A chronic lack of space, insufficient nutrition, poor hygiene standards, and routine overbreeding of the dogs are par for the course in puppy mills. This is inhumane and causes a number of serious health issues for the puppies: matted fur; eye, ear, and throat infections, dental problems and severe genetic deformities. So, how do you make sure you adopt a dog from a trustworthy and reputable breeder? One of the first steps you can do is to check the status of a breeder. All puppies sold via this marketplace are purebred, pedigree and health certified. In the United Kingdom, the Kennel Club has a list of approved breeders. All puppies sold via this marketplace are insured, pedigree and health certified. There are a handful of additional factors that also affect a Golden Retriever price. Breeder location is one of them. Certain cities and states enforce breeding regulations and charges. Breeding licenses normally apply to professional breeders who breed more than 20 puppies each year. Home-based breeders can get exemptions.

Who We Are We rescue, rehabilitate and re-home abandoned, neglected and needy boxer dogs. We are a c 3 charitable organization. Click here for more information. What We Do We take boxers from pounds, shelters and owners who must give them up, rehabilitate them physically when possible, socialize them, give them some basic training, and find permanent loving homes for them. We walk our kennel dogs a minimum of four days a week many of the dogs are in foster homes , and need volunteers to help walk the dogs. The only commitment is that volunteers show up on a day if they say they will. Walking usually takes about two hours, but many volunteers stay to play with the dogs. Many of the dogs have not had leash training when they get to us, so it would be helpful if a volunteer has had some experience with large, strong dogs - even better if the volunteer has some training experience! We have periodic 'Meet and Greets' and Adoption Days, to let the public meet some of our dogs, and need volunteers to help us at booths. Experience not required. We also participate, along with six other rescues, in the profits of Happy reTales, a retail pet supply store and groom shop in Brentwood. As a requirement of our participation, we must provide volunteer hours at the store, doing everything from checking in arriving merchandise to helping customers, as the store has only two paid employees and depends on volunteer help from the participating rescues. Ongoing commitment not required, but appreciated. He is a sweet, cuddly, and curious little elf of a puppy born on Thanksgiving; Nov. He loves to be snuggled with and held like a baby. He loves chewing on both hard and soft toys and also playing with his other siblings. He plays so nicely with his foster's dog friends where he is staying at his foster home. He has an easy medium energy and he is so smart. He is really understanding using potty pads. Peanut and his brother, Andor, look very similar. The way to tell them apart is that Peanut has all black toe nails, and he is a little smaller than his brother. He has been living with two children ages 3 and 7 and loves to play with them. He has also been staying with two much bigger dogs and a cat. The cat has not interacted with them much, he has little desire to be near happy little puppies. When the cat walks by the puppy area, Andor seems interested and curious as if he wants to be friends, but he does not fixate on the cat. This boy should grow to be 45 lbs. Mom is a Boxer Mix who is 40 lbs. Are you ready? Contact Critter Cavalry Rescue. Contact [email protected]. Adoption Process. When she was turned in to the local kill shelter, we knew we had to step up and save this sweet girl. When the girls like Deja get admitted to an already crowded small town kill shelter, it takes a miracle from God to save their life. This dog is a true athlete and is a very fit and strong girl of 54 lbs. All Deja wants in life is to please you and spread her happy attitude and personality with everyone she meets. She would be the perfect companion for an active person that enjoys hiking, running or just being outside. She loves her toys, almost too much, so you can only give her those indestructible Tuff and durable toys. At her foster place she loves to spend her days playing outside or just lounging in the sunshine with her current best friend. Deja is fully vetted and ready to find her new home. FYI - her current best friend is also available for adoption! We could certainly make a DEAL for a double adoption. Her best friend is Polar. Contact us atccrtennessee gmail. Contact ccrtennessee gmail. Considering DEJA for adoption? This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form after proper conditioning , when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter. Empowering Owners We empower Owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times. Personalized We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis. Environment Specific We train wherever issues tend to arise i. Supportive We support Owners in the off-hours when training is "not in session". Involved We work with all members of the household. Satisfaction Ratings Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors. Our Dog Training Process in Franklin, TN One of our local dog trainers will come to your Franklin home to meet with you and your dog, assess any issues and strengths and help you select a personalized program that will best suit you both. We will then demonstrate one of our trained dogs to help you better understand our dog training techniques and the results they produce. A Dog Training Elite Central Nashville graduate will behave both at home and in distracting environments due to our multi-environmental approach and the results will be lasting if the owner remains a key player in the training process. A dog signed up for one of our programs is a part of the Dog Training Elite Central Nashville family for life. Our Franklin, TN dog trainers are known for their ongoing and exceptional support given to owners. We believe in what we do and want to instill confidence in both owners and their dogs. Request your Franklin, TN dog training demo today! We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call! I love Dog Training Elite! We recently finished our 6 private lessons and have moved on to our 12 group lessons. I LOVE that she listens because we've bonded through our training and not because I've bribed her with treats. Both Malancy and Brad have been amazing to work with and the training has been so consistent. We're new to group lessons, but it's already been great to take what we've learned at home and now apply it in a group setting with other dogs and dog parents going through the same program. DTE really wants you and your dog to bond and succeed. They're super professional, supportive, and non-judgmental. I also love how the training I've been doing with our dog is translating into her also respecting and obeying my husband and kids with the same commands and praise. At first, it sounded like a lot of money to me to pay for dog training, but I promise you it's worth every penny. I love knowing that by the time we fully graduate from training if not sooner , we're going to be able to take Pepper anywhere dogs are allowed without having to worry about her or fight with her to get her to obey. If we decide to go the therapy dog route after completing our initial training, I'll definitely be sticking with DTE for that training as well. He made training simple and easy to understand and was available anytime I had questions or concerns. My beautiful little Sheltie has blossomed since training began last spring. We have a ways to go to become a bit more social, but the change in my dog and in her level of confidence is remarkable! Thanks to Jason and to Dog Training Elite. I would recommend you to anyone! They have taken our 1-year old Great Dane and have helped us transform her into the best, most well behaved dog I have ever owned. Eric, Jason, and Parker are pure professionals. Thanks to them the same out-of-control Great Dane is working to become the service dog that I need. I had Parker literally meet me and my anxious kids the day after we brought our 8 week old puppy home to TN on an airplane. Parker got us set off on the right start and helped alleviate so much of our anxiety about training our first dog. Eric then helped us during dog training build the skills that we needed to be successful at home. I loved the in-home training so that we could focus on personalizing our training and getting our pup used to the daily routine of our busy home. Plus my kids could also get trained since they were the ones who needed to learn how to be consistent and clear with the commands. Here we are at 5 months old and our puppy is such a joy to have in our home - all thanks to Parker and Eric, our dog whisperers. I feel so much more confident as an owner and have no problems taking him out in public. One of my favorite things about Parker and Eric is their strong but fair approach. This training was so worth it! Highly recommend.

The first step is to fill out the puppy application. Once I receive your application, I will contact you by phone with all the details. These litters are going to be exceptional. Super sweet temperaments with low to non shedding coats!! We are a professional family breeder of the highest quality Multigenerational Australian Labradoodle Puppies. Australian Labradoodles are intelligent, low to non shedding, hypoallergenic, and very family friendly and of course beautiful!! We have both Australian multi gen lines and new American multi gen lines which increases genetic diversity. All of our breeding dogs have gone through all the required health testing for breeding. Here at Midwest Labradoodle our mission is to educate prospective adoptive parents and to match those who qualify with the very best quality Australian Labradoodles available. The choice you make in your adoption is very important and we understand that. Education is the key to making an informed decision. Please feel free to Contact us and we will be happy to go over every step of our program with you. It is an amazing and fun journey that starts at conception! Click here to fill out our puppy application: P uppy Application The application is the very first step to this amazing journey! Once we receive your application, we will contact you by phone with details regarding our upcoming litters! What are our customers saying about us? Laddie with his new Mommy: Laddie as a puppy…. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Appleton Wisconsin and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted.

Degenerative Myelopathy Von Willebrand Disease Perhaps the most well-known is hip dysplasia, a condition that causes the hip joint to develop abnormally. This can lead to pain and lameness, and eventually requiring surgery. German Shepherds are also at risk for elbow dysplasia, a similar condition that affects the elbow joint. Other common health problems include allergies, intestinal issues, and eye problems. With proper care and diet, however, German Shepherds can live long and healthy lives. Finding a German Shepherd puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. While German Shepherds are often considered to be low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, their coats do require some care and attention. The most important thing to know about German Shepherd coat care is that the breed does not shed uniformly throughout the year. After the shedding period has ended, you can reduce the frequency of brushing to once or twice a week. In addition to regular brushing, German Shepherds also need to be bathed on occasion. How often you need to bathe your German Shepherd will depend on factors such as how often they play outside and whether they have any allergies or skin sensitivities. Generally speaking, however, a once-monthly bath is sufficient for most dogs. German Shepherd Puppies For Sale. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article.

Genetic and Structural Health Testing Proper Labradoodle Breeding Practices All breeding programs should be working towards producing genetically superior puppies. Proper breeding practices ensure that only parents with proper health clearances are bred as the breeder is always striving to better the breed. Labradoodles and other hybrid breeders must take this even a step further as there are generations to properly identify as well as testing for the furnishings gene to ensure puppies are not produced with improper furnishings. Breeding dogs is a great responsibilty and this ventured should only be done after proper research and preparation. Testing For the Furnishings Gene Labradoodles come in many different sizes, colors and coat types. But they are generally recognized by their characteristic canine moustache, beard, eyebrows and longer hair on their legs. These breed traits result from the furnishings gene. There are times, however, when Labradoodle puppies are produced without these appearances. Although the lack of furnishings does not affect the health of dogs, it causes problems with their breeding, showing or potential sale of offspring as these individuals do not meet the breed standards. Through simple genetic testing breeders can easily eliminate the production of improperly furnished puppies. It is essential that Labradoodle breeders are educated on how the furnishings gene is inherited and the role that it plays in the breed. Breeders also need to understand how backcrossing works and what it is trying to accomplish. It is important to recognize why crossing an F1 Labradoodle to a Labrador or an F1 Labradoodle to an F1 Labradoodle should never be done in regards to the furnishings gene. Further, breeders who are producing F2 generations or beyond, including Australian Labradoodles need to understand the significance of testing their breeding stock for the furnishing gene. As testing for the furnishings gene is straight-forward, inexpensive and offered from many different laboratory companies through a simple cheek swab sample it is the ethical responsibility of Labradoodle breeders to ensure that they are only producing puppies that meet breed standards and have proper furnishings. Detailed information in regards to how the furnishings gene is inherited can be found by following this link to view the Importance of Testing For The Furnishing Gene paper. Testing can be done through several genetic laboratories. We personally use Paw Print Genetics for all of our testing needs as they then provide you with results in their pedigree database that you can share on your website making it easy for your clients to see the results. This is done through structural and genetic health testing. One of the most common ailments in labradoodles is hip and elbow dysplasia. Before breeding, bitches and dogs are sedated and radiographs are taken of the hip sockets and elbow joint and submitted to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for evaluation. There, veterinarians specifically trained will grade the hips based on the structure and classify them as excellent, good, fair, borderline, mild, moderate or severe. Those dogs with scores of borderline, mild, moderate or severe should be culled from the breeding program. Elbows are classified as normal or abnormal, obviously breeding only those with normal results. Once a potential breeding dog as successfully passed structural evaluations the next step is to DNA test for the genetically heritable diseases associated with the breed. There are several companies that offer breed-specific panels, including one for labradoodles. The are performed by sending in several cheek swaps collected from the dog. The samples are submitted to the company where their lab performs DNA analysis. The company will provide a report identifying if the dog is clear, carrier or affected. Any dogs that are affected by any genetically heritable diseases should be eliminated from your breeding program. Breeding carrier dogs is perfectly acceptable as long as the breeder is conscience in their mate selection to ensure the mate is ONLY clear for the disease. Labradoodle breeding can become confusing when one is breeding different generations of Labradoodles or backcrossing to a poodle in regards to properly identifying the generation of the resulting puppies. As breeders we are morally obligated to correctly identify the puppies we are producing to our clients so that they are properly informed about the puppy they are receiving. The laws of hybridization in regards to genetics tells us that puppies that are F4 or higher have enough genetic inheritance to be true multigen labradoodles. Crosses of lower generations do not meet these criteria and therefore cannot be labeled as mutligen labradoodles. Multigen labradoodles typically are more expensive as breeders either invest more into their breeding stock if they are starting with multigen labradoodles or they have invested more money AND time if they have started with breeding F1s and worked for several years at least 6 to produce their own line of multigens. Describing generations to clients should be straight forward to avoid confusion. If you are breeding an F3 to an F1 your resulting puppies are then F2, and you advertise them as such. Labeling such a cross as a mutligen is unethical to your clients and unfair to your fellow breeders. The chart below will help you to easily identify the generation of puppies you are producing based on the generation of parents you are breeding. If you need assistance in identifying the generation of your dog or dogs please contact us. Please feel free to refer your clients to our Labradoodle page for a more detailed explanation of the different labradoodle generations. All Rights Reserved Privacy Policy. The Labradoodle is a hybrid between a poodle and a Labrador retriever. This mix was first found in Australia when some breeders made a start to produce a non-allergenic guide dog. Upon request, Wally Conron bred the first mix of Labradoodle for a visually impaired woman in Hawaii. So, to achieve a non-allergenic dog, breeding Labradors with a non-shedding dog was the requirement. Hence, they picked the standard Poodle to breed with their Labradors. Thus, this was how he soon developed the Labradoodle breeding program. And now, many breeders are developing the breed ever since. In fact, the first-ever Labradoodle to exist was a dog by the name of Sultan. Personality And Temperament Of Labradoodles Labradoodles are complete people lovers, with warmth and affection for their families. Labradoodles do very well with other pets if you happen to have any in your household. Because of their easy and fun personality, they make an excellent pick for a new dog owner. While they are harmless, they could unintentionally injure young children because of their overly cheerful nature. This cheerful, full-of-fun Labradoodle can be relatively calm too. Moreover, Labradoodles are intelligent and widely recognized for their intelligence, making them perfectly trainable. Therefore, they are also ideal for serving as guide dogs. Additionally, because of their superior intelligence, they can quickly process information and can be very perceptive. However, factors such as level of socialization, the amount of training they have received, heredity, etc. This bright and friendly Labradoodle is fun to have around. Just like their parents, they love swimming and are highly enthusiastic. They are devoted with the nature of keenness to please, making them excellent and versatile therapy and family dogs. Despite all their energy and playful nature, they are generally calm and highly affectionate with both children and adults. But one thing to keep in mind is that since Labradoodles are not a pure breed, you cannot expect consistency in the offspring. Some puppies might be a little more reserved, quiet, and intelligent like that of Poodles. In contrast, others can end up being more energetic, slow to mature, noisier, etc. Likewise, you can even expect inconsistency in their coat as well. Some dogs can either have a high-maintenance type of fur or a short, low-maintenance type. And some coats can be more prone to shedding than others. When it comes to their coat, they are also bound to have various types, including straight hair, wavy or curly hair. Its texture can also vary from soft to wiry. When it comes to colors, the labradoodle comes in varieties of shades. Similarly, since Labradoodles are crossbred, even their size will range to some extent. To mention a few, here are some of the most common Labradoodle types and their measurement. A standard-size Labradoodle male will mostly weigh about pounds with a height of 22 to 24 inches. In comparison, a typical female can weigh about the same with a slightly smaller height of about 21 to 23 inches. It can weigh pounds for a medium-sized Labradoodle male with a height of inches. And females will likely weigh the same with a smaller height of inches. And for a mini Labradoodle , both male and female will pretty much have the same height of about inches and weight of pounds. Thus, if you are looking to own a Labradoodle, the above information can help you ascertain the type of Labradoodle you should go for. If you have a smaller home or live in an apartment, then choosing a mini labradoodle will be ideal for you. Since bigger dogs usually have more energy and will demand more space. How To Start Breeding Labradoodles Breeding this loyal and extremely loving Labradoodle on your own may require some heavy research to breed them successfully. To learn more about their breeding techniques, we must make sure that they are at the right age. So, the ideal age for a Labradoodle to start breeding is when they are two years of age. At this age, Labradoodles will mostly be mature enough to start producing. It is recommended that you should not consider Labradoodle breeding, both male and female, earlier than the recommended age. It is also advised to wait to breed the female doodle until they have crossed its second heat cycle. For Female Labradoodles As with most female dogs in general, a female doodle can experience her first heat cycle as early as six months. But just because the heat cycle has begun does not mean they are ready to breed. Many make the mistake of breeding them too early. Early breeding can have several adverse effects. And on top of that, carrying puppies in her belly will only drain her, increasing the risk of miscarriage or stillbirth. Breeding young Labradoodles that are barely a year or over can result in a disastrous outcome. As they are too young with the not fully developed pelvis, they could easily die during the process of giving birth. Thereby endangering not only her life but the puppies as well. While early breeding is unhealthy, it is equally harmful to breed your Labradoodles for too long. It is best if you would stop breeding your doodle once she is eight years and above. Also, take sufficient breaks between every breeding. Because as your dog gets older, there will be a decline in the quality of eggs. Thus, making pregnancy even more complicated. Moreover, an old female doodle will have difficulties completing the entire term of pregnancy, later increasing the risk of miscarriage and stillborn births. Also, due to the deteriorating eggs, the puppies are more likely to be sickly, making it quite hard for an older Labradoodle to have healthy puppies. Another complication that comes with breeding an older Labradoodle is the low production of milk, which is quite common in older mothers. For Male Labradoodles Compared to the female doodles, the male is a lot simpler in many ways. However, this in no way means that we can take their health less seriously. Like how it is with the females, you should wait to breed your male dogs, at least until he turns two years old. This is because research shows that around two years of age is the ideal age for them to breed since they are at their best mature self sexually around this age. However, taking your Labradoodle to the vet regularly will significantly extend his breeding period. He can be bred even up to ten years of age, producing healthy puppies. Guidelines For Labradoodle Breeding You need to look into some things to ensure that your Labradoodle is ready before you start breeding them. Mentioned below are some of the points you need to check before you consider breeding your dog. Find your female Labradoodle a fitting male Labradoodle Find out the genetic history of your dogs. Get your dog screened for diseases. Make sure that your dog has proper training. One main concern every breeder should have is the dogs are in their best health. Every breeder wants the healthiest puppies, therefore to get the best offspring, you should make sure that the parent is of the best genetic traits. It is to make sure that you avoid any future health hazards. Thus, breeders need to be well informed about all these above points before breeding the dogs. Health Concerns When Breeding Labradoodles Cross-breeding presents specific health-related issues of which you must be well aware. Knowledge about their potential health issues will help avoid or reduce any possible health effects on your puppies. The main issue with cross-breeding is that they are prone to pass on recurring diseases from both sides of the breed. And the worst part is that this can even continue for multi-generations. Some of the most common congenital diseases that get passed on are — PRA Progressive retinal atrophy , joint dysphasia, etc. Joint dysphasia This disease mainly affects their elbows and hips, causing limitations in movement. It can even lead to arthritis. And due to its limited physical activity, the dog can end up being more stressed out and anxious. Therefore, breeders must make it a pivotal point to DNA test Labradoodles before breeding them. Some of its symptoms include- lack of appetite, weakness, depression, excessive thirst, urination, sudden weight loss, etc. This disease requires immediate and lifelong treatment. It can turn minor injuries into big disasters. Some of its symptoms are- Excessive bleeding when injured, bleeding gums, blood in the urine and stools, etc. Therefore, to minimize recurring diseases as much as possible, breeders should not breed their doodles before having them, or their male counterparts screened. This step will significantly help you steer clear from getting unhealthy puppies because a healthy parent will make healthy offspring. Conclusion Thus, if you are looking to breed your Labradoodles for the first time, you would first have to be aware of many things. And to enjoy the excellent result, you must make sure that you follow the guidelines mentioned above carefully. With the above-detailed history and guide about Labradoodle breeding, you are sure to have the best experience you are looking for. 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. 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. Select Page Labradoodle Breeding Standards The Australian Labradoodle is not a Aussiedoodle, they should be gracefully athletic, yet compact with substance to their build. These amazing dogs are happy and energetic when they are free playing and soft and quiet when handled. Candidates for service assisting and therapy dogs Their kind willing personality and the soft non shedding luxurious coat makes these amazing dogs a candidate for service assisting and therapy dogs. They have a gentle nature, unique intuition which enables them to sense the emotional and physical needs of human beings and to act accordingly, together they desire close human companionship which makes them keen and easy to train. Labradoodles have a compact structure Nothing should attract attention from the compact structure of their body. Their chest is neither broad nor narrow, with brisket level slightly above the point of elbow. Ribs sufficiently well sprung to allow adequate heart and lung room. Shoulders should have good angulation with firm elbows held close to the rib cage. The back is level and strong from withers to the start of the flanks, with a slight rise of muscle over the loins to permit a long reaching drive from the hindquarters when gaiting. Top line should remain level with strong loin and level croup. The croup only slightly tapers to the set on of tail. Hindquarters should be of medium angulation with short strong hocks and the tuck up is sufficient to enable the hind legs to reach well forward beneath the body when gaiting. Size is measured to the top of the shoulder blades withers while standing squarely on a level surface. Large dogs can suffer from rapid growth that can lead to structural problems. Over size is a major fault. Care must be taken to keep the miniature Australian Labradoodle a solid athletic robust dog. The dwarfing of dogs can lead to many genetic and temperament disorders. Minimum size attention is of the utmost importance to maintain a healthy little dog. Most Australian Labradoodles will weigh more than their height reflects. Expected Look of the Labradoodle breed based on Labradoodle Breeding Standards The Australian Labradoodles head should be Slightly square and in proportion to the size of the dog. Length from tip of nose to the inner corner of the eyes only slightly shorter than from the inner corner of the eyes to the point of the occiput. Nasal bones are broad and flat, with frontal bones a similar width to the side bones which have flat muscling giving a sculptured appearance. Skull gently rounded and of similar width to the frontal bones of the face. The stop is blunt but well defined with a very slightly indented brow between the eyes. The eyes are a distinct feature. Expression of the eyes is open, gentle, confident, and friendly. Round or oval, with long sweeping eyelashes and set well apart but not to the extreme side of the head. The expression is seeking intimate contact with human eyes and is more important than exact shape. Eye color and rich pigmentation of the rims blend with the surrounding coat. Their ears are set flat against their head and should be level with the eye. Ears should be of medium thickness. Muzzle more broad than narrow, but not to excess. Lips firmly fitting and rims lined with unbroken pigment. They have a level scissor bite, teeth are strong and white with no discoloration or signs of wear. The nose is a distinct feature, noticeably large and fleshy with open nostrils and rich pigment. The True Australian Labradoodle they are not Aussiedoodles Coats and Colors All Colors Parti — Colors have the same colored eye and lip rims, and eye color as their predominating color. Merle — Coloring comes in a variety of colors, chocolate merle, blue merle, black merle, etc. They also have green, blue and or dark eye coloring. Eyes brown Lavender is extremely rare and has pinkish to mauve skin, eye and lip rims and nose. Eyes hazel. Many color combinations are acceptable for this coloring. This coat does not shed, but should be groomed out. It is important that the coat gives the impression of being a fleece rather than dog hair. Are Labradoodles Hypoallergenic? There is no Scientific Laboratory proof that the Labradoodle is Hypoallergenic. Practical research has given the impression that it is highly possible that the fleece and wool textures of the Labradoodle are very successful with asthma and allergy sufferers. We do recommend that if you have the opportunity to meet one of these wonderful dogs in person that you should check to see if you have any reactions before you make your decision in purchasing your new puppy. They have had an extremely high success rate so far! Please note, no dog is truly hypoallergenic, some breeds are better for people with allergies and some are not. First, you must determine if you or a family member are in fact allergic to dogs hair and dander and that is best determined by a doctor. You may be allergic to what a dog naturally brings in from the outside, grass, dust and pollen on their coat versus the dog itself. In that case, all dogs will increase your allergy symptoms. If you believe you are allergic to dogs the best way to determine if you are allergic to labradoodles is to be around one for at least 24 hours or more. Remember there are Labradoodles flat coated, fleece coated, wool coated and Australian Labradoodles fleece coated and wool coated. No refunds due to allergies. Their are newly formed Australian Labradoodle registries that have been formed to provide a registry to record the True Australian Labradoodle, they strive to maintain the soundness and integrity of the breed. Make sure you find an experienced Labradoodle breeder Not all breeders are experienced in selecting coat types so make sure that you find a breeder who not only knows the look but also the correct texture of the coat type you are looking for. Golden Xpress Labradoodles has been raising these wonderful dogs for 13 years. Because the breed is still in the development stages we are still are seeing some variations within the three coat types themselves. Also your fleece coats while over all are softer than your wool coats in texture they still have some texture variation within the fleece coat type. We recommend that any family or person who suffers from dog related allergies or asthma should look into a Wool coated labradoodle as they have the highest success rate. In order to produce a breed of quality, haste must be made slowly. It is a good idea to keep in mind that the Australian Labradoodle is a family companion. We do not want the heartache of illness and the expense of a less than sound dog. Golden Xpress Australian Labradoodle puppy coats As your Australian Labradoodle puppy develops their adult coat and out of their puppy coat at about 6 to 12 months. The coat change can last anywhere from a week to several weeks. This is usually the time when owners decide that their beautiful furry doodle needs a shorter look. During their coat change it is recommended that you groom them daily. The Australian Labradoodle coat will start to thicken and mat, this is the time to start grooming. When pup coat is changing to adult, the coat may lose a little hair and the coat may become lightened or darkened. A change in curl will happen as the coat gets longer. When your Labradoodle is about 12 to 17 months old they will have their adult coat. Mini Australian Labradoodle Know your groomer Most important is to know your groomer or have a groomer that is recommended. Ask to see photos of other Doodles they have groomed, etc. Golden Xpress Labradoodles breeding dogs with a variety of coat types wavy, fleece and wool. The Labrador Retriever is an active, friendly, loving dog who thrives on human companionship, wanting nothing more than to please their owners except perhaps eat and jump in any water they can find! They are ideal pets where there are children about and they get on well with other household animals. Labradors are a very happy breed, extremely affectionate, constantly wagging their tails and always on the go. They are easily trained, being eager to learn and to please and can turn their paw to just about anything. They are total foodies however - which helps with their training but not their waistlines! The Poodle is a lively, sociable and affectionate dog who is both intelligent and amusing, and makes a wonderful and fun companion. They love to be included in all family pursuits and can be good watch dogs, announcing visitors but never being aggressive. The Standard Poodle is still at heart a working dog and can easily be the start of your training class, your agility group or in the obedience ring - and thrive with a job to do where they can work with their owner. It is clear however from looking at the two breeds that make up the Labradoodle that this is an extremely active dog who needs a lot of exercise and input often more than many new owners expect - and being highly social, needs to be a part of the family. The personality of a Labradoodle seems to be more consistent when they are first crosses F1. As a line is successively bred, they can be either bred back to one of the original breeds and so strengthen either the Labrador or the Poodle personalities or else be bred to another Labradoodle - in which case there is less predictability in temperament and in-breeding becomes more of a potential issue. Responsible breeders should be prioritising behaviour as highly as health and so it is important to find a good breeder. She chose Australia because the animal health arrangements meant that a dog bred there could come straight into her home in Hawaii without having to spend time in quarantine. The Association were already using Labradors as guide dogs, and so they needed to cross one with a non-shedding breed. They imported a white Standard Poodle from Sweden that had excellent working bloodlines - and the first intentional Labradoodle litter was born. Since then they have been bred - both responsibly and irresponsibly - in the quest to find a friendly, non-shedding family dog. This has been done with varying degrees of success - and indeed some Labradooodles have excelled as assistance dogs around the world, and those who are enamoured of them hail them as the perfect large companion dog as long as they get enough exercise! The two breeds that go into the formation of the Labradoodle are the Labrador Retriever and the Standard Poodle. They were trained to bring in the fishing nets through the icy waters for the fishermen and, in the early 19th century, were brought to Poole Harbour in Great Britain. Due to their lovely personality the fishermen started getting offers from Englishmen to buy them. The breed also had working abilities which made them instantly successful as a gundog. The Earl of Malmesbury became fascinated by these dogs, known at that time as Saint John's Dogs, and he started breeding them, calling them Labrador Dogs. Today Labradors are still used as working gundogs as well as being beloved family pets. While keeping the vital organs and joints protected, much of the rest of their hair was shaved off. The Labradoodle can have any combination of the two breeds in their appearance, behaviour and temperament. Health and Common Issues One aim with crossbreeds is to dilute or eliminate any inherited health issues that may exist within one or other of the breeds. This dilution or elimination is only likely if only one parent is the carrier of any particular condition, and where this is a first cross F1. Some Labradoodle clubs also suggest that there are several potential health issues, and affected dogs should not be bred from and where possible relevant testing should be done : Progressive retinal atrophy. Progressive retinal atrophy Progressive retinal atrophy PRA is the malformation or deterioration of the retina over time. PRA can be inherited or late-onset and age-related, but both lead to complete blindness over a period of years. Pups with inherited PRA will begin showing signs of vision loss at months of age. Symptoms include: Loss of vision, starting with night blindness Anxiety about dark rooms or nighttime Dilated eyes that are very reflective of light Clumsiness No eye contact General anxiety and clinginess PRA can be diagnosed following a veterinary eye examination and ERG testing. Although there is no cure, it is not a painful or life-threatening condition, but it can be frightening. It creates a dazzling, light-colored, mottled effect in the coat that is very striking and beautiful to look at. This is dangerous because the lack of pigment doubles, which affects the eyes and ears and often results in vision loss, hearing loss, or both. Most Doodles are sweet-natured, so this is not usually a problem! How to breed Labradoodles When looking to breed Labradoodle pups, you first need to make sure that your parent dogs are healthy and of good temperament, as discussed above. Visible signs of pregnancy such as a swollen belly will develop at the week stage, and a veterinary ultrasound should be done to clarify the number of pups. The average litter size for Labradoodles is puppies. Birth can take hours. Signs of labor in dogs include restlessness, discomfort, contractions, and dilation. Breeders should have the number of the emergency vet on hand just in case, and be familiar with the signs of dystocia, or difficult birth. These include strong contractions for more than 30 minutes with no delivery, straining for more than 2 hours with no delivery, more than four hours between puppies, and blood with no delivery. Breeders should also have the necessary supplies for whelping, including a whelping box, medical scissors, blankets, and towels. Good breeding practices with Labradoodles When breeding Labradoodle puppies, breeders should adopt good breeding practices only. This means no inbreeding, or breeding of related dogs, and no breeding runts of litters. All parent dogs and their puppies should be treated with the highest quality of care, with safe, spacious housing, clean bedding, healthy food, and constant access to water to drink. They should also be sufficiently groomed, walked, socially and mentally stimulated, and receive all of the necessary medical care, such as vaccinations, check-ups, and preventative parasitic medications. Top tips when breeding Labradoodles When breeding your Doodles, be sure to take their genetic traits into consideration. For example; what size Labradoodle do you want? Which color? What is backcrossing? This means that the gene pool is kept large and healthy. How much is a Labradoodle puppy? The exact price tag will depend on a number of factors, including the breeder. In fact, smaller breeders tend to provide a much higher and personal level of care to their dogs than big-time breeders. Unfortunately, puppies are twice as likely to come from illegal breeders and inhumane puppy farms than legal breeders in the US. Pups bred from show dogs and working dogs will always be more expensive than those bred from regular pets, and rarer or more desirable coat colors such as pure-black Labradoodles , or the merle-patterned ones will be more expensive than more common colors or those considered less desirable such as the brown coat. Size can also play a part, as these days, Labradoodles come in all shapes and sizes , including the micro Doodle and the teacup Doodle, both of which are highly desirable and highly costly because of their trendiness and cuteness. When looking for a micro or teacup Doodle, extra care must be taken when selecting a breeder to ensure good breeding practices. This may be anywhere from fifty dollars to a few hundred dollars. The exact price will depend on the shelter you adopt from. Rescue centers that are well-known nationally may charge lower prices as they receive a good amount of publicity and donations. Whereas smaller, localized shelters may be more expensive. How to make sure your Doodle pup is healthy When you buy a Labradoodle pup from a breeder, always remember to ask for proper health documentation that proves they have been tested for the genetic conditions mentioned above and received all of their essential vaccinations. Make sure that the breeder was providing a high-quality food for Labradoodle parents and puppies , too! The adult dogs should look happy and healthy. They should be in good condition, have clean eyes and a shiny, well-groomed and clean coat. Some illegal breeders even forge health documentation, so you should always have new puppies checked over by a vet, just in case. With Doodles, your vet should pay particular attention to their joints and eyes. Unleash the real potential of your companion! 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Lab Puppy proof the house. Things like dangerous chemicals, solvents, cleaning solutions, paint and other dangerous substances need to be secured. As well you will need to look at cords hanging and things falling on the puppy if they accidentally pull something down. Stairs need to be gated off until your puppy is older and learns how to walk down them without trying to jump off. Purchase a quality dog food. It never ceases to amaze me how some people end up feeding a low quality food to their dog, or something experimental like a vegan food, or even feed them a so called raw diet and not balance their nutrition requirements. The single biggest thing you can do for your dog is feed them a proven diet with nutrients delivered in the proper ratios. A second thing to consider is where your food is made and how you can be notified if there is a recall. At the time of writing this there is a popular food under recall for toxic levels of vitamin D. There have been numerous cases of deaths related to this and yet the company claims they independently test their ingredients. The food we recommend is such because we have years and years of experience over 13 years with it using it ourselves and recommending it to those who adopt our puppies. We have actually had so few health issues with our puppies and aging adults eating this food that we have increased our warranty to 4 years and include all major organs. Bottom line, feed a high quality proven food from the day you bring your puppy home, not necessarily one with the most protein. We will provide you with feeding suggestions once you place your reservation for a puppy and a proven puppy food to feed them. Visit the pet store for the required equipment. You are going to need a large dog crate with a divider so in the beginning your puppy will have just enough room to sleep. Crate training is the best way to protect your puppy while making them safe when unsupervised. As your dog grows you can remove the divider so it has room to lay down and not touch the walls. We stock the most popular toys and cover all the different types you will need so that you can get them when you pick up your puppy. They come with explanations of how the different types are used to both stimulate, calm and play with your puppy, how to cycle them, teething, and more. A stainless steel water and food bowl is also another good choice. I would wait on getting a collar so that you can fit them properly. We have inexpensive training leashes that adjust to any size for you to purchase when you are here. Have a family meeting to establish expectations. Every human in the home will need to follow the same rules consistently so that your puppy understands what is expected of them. Schedule an appointment with a good Veterinarian. Not all Veterinarians are of equal experience. We have heard some pretty crazy stories, so we suggest you get some referrals of some long term relationships of people you trust for a Vet. You should take your puppy to the vet a couple of days after you get home so it has time to get use to its new surroundings before being taken somewhere. Prepare fore the Drive Home 1. Your puppy can last about 2 or 3 hours without a potty break. We normally feed your puppy early in the morning on the day of pick up so that it has time to go potty before the drive home. Our recommendation is to give your puppy some water every 3 hours and then let them have a pee. This could also go along with letting them play or explore outside a bit. When you stop, find an unused grassy space to potty on. Arriving at home with your puppy 1. First quickly bring them to the spot you want them to potty. This is the beginning of your dog being house trained. They will likely have to go right after you get out of the car. So when you stop, give them a drink in the area you want them to relieve themselves in. Wait until they go and then you can take them into the home. Treat your puppy like a puppy. It is breakable and will be a puppy for about a year. Things like playing with larger dogs and such should be carefully supervised. Constant supervision. Your new puppy needs to be constantly supervised until they can be trusted and you know that they understand the rules. Constant supervision means either you or someone watching them, they are in their crate the crate is the supervisor , or that they are in a section of the home baby-gated off or also an outside run with a kennel and a cement floor so they cannot dig under the fence yes they will dig. After a potty bring your puppy to the room with their crate. Introducing them to their crate perhaps with a few pieces of kibble in it will show them where their safe space is. This is also where they need to be comfortable enough to self-calm and fall asleep. If you have another dog, first introduce them outside on neutral territory. Bringing a new puppy and simply coming straight into the home could have one of three effects. The first being that both dogs might be ok with it. Second is that the older dog has an issue with a new strange animal in its territory. This would result in your older dog being defensive, maybe even protective or possibly anxious and scared and once this has happened it is out there. Undoing this type of trauma could take days or weeks. Relax and let them get to know each other and all will be good. After some get familiar time begin training your puppy without distractions using Positive Reinforcement training methods. We suggest that everyone participates in some training classes either in a group format or private. The important thing to understand is that you are training you to train your puppy. Your puppy will also lose any training it has done if it is not reinforced by everyone in the home. Other resources are 80 Puppy Training tips that you can learn as well as an excellent site with video called Puppy Trained Right. We have a discount code available for those who are taking home one of our puppies. This will allow them time to eliminate most of their food and urine and will give a better chance of sleeping the night without having to go potty. Prepare their crate in a quiet, dark spot. Make it a sleepy place, place a blanket over the top and down 3 sides to block draft and to make it den-like. Some mild exercise or training just before bed. Just like a human, you want them to be tired before bed. So for example if you let them sleep from 9 to 11 pm they may not need to go down at 11 to sleep. The last while before bed try to stimulate them mentally and physically so that they are ready to turn in. This can be training sessions, a walk, a play session or even fetch in the house. One final potty around 11 pm. After you prepare them for sleep take them out one more time and give them ample time to relieve themselves. Bring them back in, let them settle in the crate, put an item of clothing in there that smells like you for them to snuggle on. The quicker they learn the new pack and learn to settle in the crate the better and that happens by not reminding them of their old litter. If they smell their old litter they will whine for them to find them. Settling in their crate. Once your puppy goes down you will want to be teaching your puppy that the time in their crate is for sleep, they are safe in there, and that if they bark or whine they cannot summon you to save them. So, what if they really have to go? This is something you will have to figure out. It may be possible that they must go outside to relieve themselves, but, they may also just want you to hold or feed them. If they go, just put them back in their crate to settle and go back to sleep. You will know within reason that next time they are just lonely. This normally stops after about 2 or 3 days. Whoosh them out to their pee spot. Pick them up and carry them quickly to their pee spot. When they go reward them with praise and say the potty word that you use. Feed, and then woosh them out again to their pee spot. Puppies often need to poop right after they eat, or sometimes while they are eating. Some exercise, training and mental stimulation. After waking up and eating they will be ready for a walk and some training. Setting them up for their first full day in the home. Plan their day out so that there is a balance of play, training, napping, eating, and potty. In the beginning your puppy will need about 20 hours or so of sleep a day so be sure it is getting enough. If your puppy gets nippy they may be trying to tell you they are tired and want to be left alone in their crate. Every opportunity that your puppy presents in the form of nipping is a training opportunity to teach bite inhibition. Coming home to your puppy after work. Learning how to greet them. If you work full time it is important to understand that a young puppy cannot hold their bladders for more than 3 or 4 hours. If you work full time you will need someone to watch them or at least visit them once or twice during the shift to let them out, drink and play. When you arrive home this is the time to teach them manners. Most dogs will be excited and will jump on you to greet you. Be sure you teach them how you want them to greet people. We will teach a dog to sit in front of us before it gets any attention. No attention means no talking, no eye contact and no touching. Will they need to relieve themselves? If they have been in a crate you will likely need to let them go potty, a walk or some fetching would also be good at this time because they likely have some energy to expend. Training pre or post feeding? There are also some Labs who are not food motivated. So if your Lab is not responding well to training after they are fed, you may want to train them before eating so the hunger is on your side. Socialization with people other than your family, and animals other than those in the home. While socializing you want to expose them to many people while not overwhelming them. To start we recommend 1 new person each morning and one new place each night. After you can see that your puppy is not overwhelmed you may decide to increase the frequency of exposure to new places, animals and things. Prepare for night time routine. Get your new furball ready for bed time as outlined above. Setting your puppy up for success. Avoiding dog parks and strange dogs. Until your puppy is fully vaccinated around 14 weeks old they are vulnerable to other diseases by unknown dogs. By all means, if you know someone who has a dog and you can verify that their dog is up to date on all shots such as Parvo, Rabies, Leptospirosis, Kennel Cough, Distemper, Hepatitis, Corona and Para Influenza, 2. Get into a reputable training class or private training with a reputable trainer. Training classes are mainly to train you. Ask around in your area for a recommendation of a good trainer at a reasonable price. Gentle, regular exposure to everyone and everything. For example, while you are exposing them to people you will need to expose them to female babies, toddlers, pre teens, teenagers, young adult women, middle aged women and older women. You will need to include women with glasses, hats, soft voices, loud voices, etc…. Adjust their food as they grow and as their activity level increases or decreases. If for example your dog is much more active or much less active then the recommended feeding amount will not be correct. Instead use your eyes. You might have to adjust the food amounts up or down as your Labrador gets more or less activity. Positive Reinforcement training by everyone in the pack. When you get into your car and you to go somewhere, you tell your gps where you want to go. Dogs are the same way. Instead teach your dog what you want it to do. Instead of scolding, simply withdraw your attention. This is enough punishment. Then, get back to showing your dog what you want it to do. If your puppy is not eating or has a loose bowel movement. Not eating much is pretty common when a puppy goes to its new home, however if it stops drinking then that would be cause for an immediate vet visit. In a new home your puppy might not be comfortable for a couple of days and eating might be just grazing. This is ok as long as it is drinking and seems to be playful. Loose bowel movements in the beginning could be due to nerves or your puppy could also have a parasite. At this young age puppies put everything, and I mean everything into their mouths. It is quite common for puppies to get loose stool from a parasite. This can be addressed easily if you take a stool sample into your Vet for analysis. What is a puppy emergency that requires a visit to the vet? Our rules for an emergency trip to the vet are: Uncontrollable bleeding, puppy not breathing properly, broken bone, puppy is not drinking and appears lethargic. If any of these present themselves you may want to consider getting help right away. Other things can normally wait until the next morning to be addressed because they are not critical. Depending on where you live however you may have a vet that is open 24 hours and even on the weekends. So this is a start for you to think about when you take a Labrador Puppy home. Information contained on this page is provided by an independent third-party content provider. Frankly and this Site make no warranties or representations in connection therewith. If you are affiliated with this page and would like it removed please contact pressreleases franklymedia. Be among the first to get breaking news, weather, and general news updates from News 9 delivered right to your inbox! Morning Headlines. We get down on our hands and knees and look at the world from our puppies eyes. We often find many hidden dangers that go unnoticed from our regular vantage point. You can buy them on-line or at your local pet supply store. Important items include: A Crate. You can get a wire crate or plastic kennel. The crate should be big enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down in comfortably. We still have and use the first one we bought for our Lab mix rescue pup, Linus over 16 years. Toys, Treats, and Chewies. Having a variety of toys are important to keep him busy and entertained. They also help his mental development. I get some that squeak and some that honk when the pup plays with them. Different textures like rubber and latex can provide some variety. Puzzle-like toys can make him figure out how to work them. Kongs frozen with a little moist food can keep him busy and help teething needs. Chewies such as Nylabones, bully sticks, and antlers can meet his teething needs. Puppy training treats can help train him. Treats should be no larger than the size of a pea. His kibble can be used as a treat too. Check out some of the best chew toys for your puppy. You can continue to give him the same puppy food. There are formulas for small dogs and puppies that will become large breeds as adults. Puppy Pee and Poop Cleaner. Although we try to avoid accidents, some are inevitable with a young puppy. There are some great enzymatic cleaners to help remove housebreaking indiscretions. They even make types for different surfaces such as wood and carpet. Follow the instructions on the bottle. Always test on an inconspicuous area before using. If you just try to wipe the stain away without such products, the pup may be drawn back to the area to use as his potty yard. Potty Pads. These are pads with a plastic backing and paper top that is pre-scented to draw the puppy to use them as his bathroom. They can be very useful in some circumstances. Some people live in an apartment and the puppy may not be able to hold it on the way out. Or you may have a toy or small breed dog like a chihuahua or Yorkie and intend to use the pads throughout his life. Leash, Collar, and Harness. Have sizes that fit your pup and a six-foot leash. The breeder or rescue you obtain the dog from can help you get the right sizes, as can knowledgeable pet store employees. Safety first. Water and Food Bowls. They should be sized for the puppy. What a Mastiff needs as an adult and as a puppy are very different. I prefer stainless steel because they last forever and are easy to clean. Bitter Apple. This is a chew deterrent that can help save your precious chair leg. Always test on an inconspicuous spot before using. Puppy Exercise Pen. The name is misleading. They come in wire, plastic, or cloth. It can also be used as a safe containment area. Grooming Tools. Ask your breeder or rescue group what they recommend. Safety Gate. You may need this in order to block the puppy from other rooms or stairs. Ideally, everyone living with the puppy should meet to determine who is handling each task with the puppy. Basically, our night stands are crates. You can move the crate or have a second one in the area where everyone hangs out, like the family room or living room. By keeping our pup to the exact same routine helps them learn more quickly. Set up a wellness check with a trusted veterinarian. They can potty the pup and even play and walk him. Choose a name if your family can decide on one prior to his joining his household so that you can start teaching him his name. Feed the puppy at the same times every day, generally three times a day for a young puppy under five months old. Puppy Potty Training. The puppy will have to potty after sleeping, eating, playing, chewing, and any excitement, and prior to going to bed. I know, it seems as if all he does is go to the bathroom — outside, inside, everywhere!? But it will get better as he gets more bladder control. So, a two-month-old puppy should be able to hold it for about three hours. Be prepared to be very sleep-deprived the first week and maybe a little longer. Closely observe you pup to see when he has to go to the bathroom. Some pups start to sniff the floor as a cue, others seem agitated, others spin. Try to get the puppy outside whenever you see these signs. Try taking him out the same door, the same route, to the same area. It saves a lot of time. Immediately after the pup potties, remember to praise and reward the pup with a small treat no bigger than the size of a pea. A piece of his kibble can be used. And you can praise and reward with a small treat immediately after he potties. Just watch him more closely. The Great Explorer. Let the pup explore the puppy-proofed room at his own pace. If possible, play with a toy he had at his former placement. Gently squeak it and toss it a foot away from him. Let him know you represent great times. Great Crate. Leave the door to his crate open, tethered back so it will remain open and not scare him by moving. Have a toy or blankie from his former home in the crate to make him more comfortable. You can help him enter by tossing the toy into the crate with him watching nearby. Or you can have a couple of his kibbles present to toss in too. Even though your family and friends want to meet the new addition, give him at least a few days to settle in before overwhelming him with too many new experiences. Familiar Scent. It will help his bond with you and get him to know good things happen there. Take him out to potty right before you put him to bed. Gently place him in his crate or throw a couple of pieces of his kibble in his crate and let him go after them. You want him to like his crate. Have the blankie with the scent from his prior home in his crate. A warm water bottle wrapped in a blanket can help some pups adjust. It simulates a heartbeat and has a warming pack inside to help the puppy be calm and ease his loneliness in the first critical nights of his adjustment. Puppy panic. The pup may squeal, whine, and bark. Generally, I let the pup cry himself out. Give him a couple of minutes to potty. If he goes, praise and reward. One of my puppies had an ear-piercing scream the first night in her crate. She eventually settled and slept. Each successive night got better and better when she learned her new routine and stopped panicking. Sleeplessness: Yours. Be prepared to have some sleepless nights for at least the first few weeks. The puppy can only hold his urine for a few hours. I recommend even setting an alarm for the first few nights so that you can take him out after three hours. Leave him for a few hours after the first few days of his adjusting to his new home. My newest puppy is an Aussie mix I named Millie. She was about 11 weeks old when I adopted her. She was full of energy and never met a stranger in her foster home. Even though she was so outgoing, I still gave her about five days to adjust to meeting new people. Some pups are shy and reserved in meeting new people. Others want to run up to new people and jump all over them. Set him up to succeed. Have only a few people meet him at a time. Meeting people should be a positive experience. Have the people give him a small tidbit of a treat or a piece or two of his kibble. You can teach him that such interactions are good first over the first week or so; once he likes being held or having his feet touched by you, then I would have others gently do so while rewarding and praising him. But you can still take him on the road towards the end of the first week if he seems to be adjusting well. I carry a soft fleece dog bed to put into a shopping cart with the puppy in a harness and on a leash. Give him a treat as people come up to pet him. Have them meet on leash assuming your pup has adjusted to his harness and leash. Just a short meeting of about a minute is fine. Eventually, if the pups are about the same size and have similar play styles, they can play for a few minutes off leash for a few minutes in a safe area such as a puppy-proofed room. Be careful of the puppy meeting new dogs. Not all dogs will tolerate the antics of a puppy. Wait until you have a puppy more than a week and until he knows some basic commands like sit and his name. Make sure that the dog he meets, both being on leash, is very tolerant of puppies. Going in a car is new to him and he has to get used to the motion and going new places. The more fun, positive places he goes, he should get used to traveling and even look forward to it. He has to brave the new world of TVs and dishwashers. Make sure such encounters are pleasant. In the same way, get him used to other everyday sights and sounds such as the TV on or the phone ringing. Eventually, get him used to new sights and sounds outside the house. Puppy Training Training is composed of having the pup learn a new language and the rules. Socialization and training also give him confidence in his world. But there are certain other commands the pup should start to learn the first week. You can also reward with a small treat no larger than a pea. Remember to always set your puppy up for success. For example, have your pup exercised before he works so that he can settle down and focus. A short five-minute play session tossing a toy can help. His Name. Have him in front of you and say his name. It should always be positive. Nothing negative should happen immediately after he comes to you. At first have him in front of you, show him the treat and lure him to you as you back away a few steps. Crate Training. Practice having your puppy go into the crate with the door open. Throw a treat or toy in and praise when he enters. Make sure the crate is an inviting place. Place a towel or blanket in it that has the scent of his old home and littermates to help him feel more comfortable in his new home. Get your new puppy used to handling. Have him on your lap or a table with a rubber mat so he has secure footing. Gently: massage his body; touch his ears; touch his feet. Once he gets used to handling, you can start a very short grooming session. Brush him gently with an appropriate grooming tool like a slicker brush. Only groom a small section at a time. Always end on a good note. It will take at least a few days for the puppy to get used to wearing a collar or harness or being on leash. After putting the collar or harness on, -try to play with the puppy to distract him. Many puppies buck like a bronco after a leash is attached. You can let him drag the leash for a short time. Attach it to his collar or leash and play with him for a short time. Never leave the leash, collar, or harness attached unsupervised. Be patient. It will take multiple training sessions for the puppy to get used to these new training devices. More important than anything: have fun with and enjoy the time you have with your new best friend. Puppyhood goes by so quickly. The good news is a little planning goes a long way when preparing for your first new puppy. Reading this article is a great start. Take the advice in this article to heart and start preparing for your puppy. If you already started your first week then start doing the things outlined in this article. Are you thinking about getting a new puppy? Are you currently raising a puppy? Or is this all old news to you? Tell us about your experiences in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the toilet at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialisation Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the garden Besides the gnomes and questionable garden furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own garden is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and garden to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favourite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. First day and night with puppy First day with a new puppy Your first day and night with a new puppy Getting a puppy is a really huge step for anyone and if it's your first puppy it's important to know what to expect. We've put together our tips and advice on the first 24 hours with your four-legged friend. A new member of the family is a big commitment but also really exciting. If you're a first-time puppy owner, you might have heard stories good and bad about owning a puppy. Your first day and night together will help to set the tone for your time together, so it's really important to be prepared. Our vets have put together their advice on dealing with your first day with a new puppy. Be prepared before bringing your puppy home Before you even bring your puppy home, there's a lot you can do to prepare! Remember to make sure to get all the supplies you need first - our new puppy checklist can help you decide what to get. This will be an area they can go and take naps in, chill out in when they want a bit of alone time and generally feel safe in. If you do decide to get your puppy a crate, remember they might not be used to one so you will need to take your time introducing them to it to make sure they are comfortable and happy with it. Take a look at our guide on crate training for more advice. Growing is thirsty work, after all! Ideally you want this near to their quiet area and bed. Set some ground rules Before your puppy comes home, you have some decisions to make. Will they be allowed on the sofa? Are they allowed on the bed? You need to set some rules and make sure everyone at home knows what they are — and sticks to them! Consistency is key when training any dog and your puppy will be learning all the time. Puppies will need to go to the toilet regularly, so giving them the opportunity straight away will help before they go inside. Remember to give them lots of praise or even a treat when they go to the toilet in the right place — for more information, visit our toilet training guide. When you take your puppy inside for the first time, try to take them to their space first. Too much too soon can get them over-excited or stressed, so slow introductions to new things is key. Make sure you keep your home and everyone in it! The breeder or rehoming centre can let you know when, what and how much your puppy normally eats. Offer lots of toilet time. Give your puppy the chance to go out to the toilet regularly and give them lots of praise when they go in the right place! Playtime can be OK. Short playtime sessions are absolutely fine, but remember that your pup will tire out quickly so keep them short and sweet. Naps are important. Puppies are still growing, which is tiring! Avoid walks. Your puppy is unlikely to be fully vaccinated when you first get them. Stick to supervised playtime in a secure garden, keeping them away from water sources and thick undergrowth where rats could have been. Spend lots of time together. Your puppy is always learning, so make sure you spend lots of time with them so they know they can be happy and safe around you. Pets love routine, so get your puppy into a regular routine as soon as possible! Decide where they are sleeping. Whether you plan on your puppy forever sleeping in your bedroom, or want them in a separate room, you need to start this from the beginning and stick to it. If you have your puppy in your bedroom but plan to move them into a different room at a later date, this can be really distressing for them. Keep calm. Keep bedtime as calm as possible for your pup. Give them gentle praise such as a few strokes when they settle where you want them to. Sleep in the same room for the first few nights. For the first few nights, your puppy will need time to adjust to being without their mum. Remind them of mum. Pop this where they sleep every night as it will help to comfort them and keep them calm. Night time toilet breaks may be needed. Puppies have little bodies and little bladders! For the first few weeks you might find they need a toilet break during the night. If your puppy is worried during the night, they might cry or bark. This is completely normal as they adjust to a new home and environment. When your puppy is scared, comforting them will help, but being ignored will make them feel isolated and even more frightened. Got a question? Print We recently brought home Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to train her and raise her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. That means Bubba will be with for almost a year and a half. We train one or two of these puppies each year, and over the years we have gotten pretty good at it. We also train adult dogs for hunting and competition, so we see a lot of dogs come into our program. Dogs that have each been raised differently. There are some definite training tips that can help you help your lab grow up to be the best version of himself. Training and socialization for very young Labrador puppies — week one The first week of a puppy being away from its litter is very stressful for the puppy. Most often, the first two days, the puppy will sleep a lot! The pup is adjusting to all the changes, and they need time to do that. After the first couple days you may notice a spike of energy. This is your sign that the puppy is adjusting well and is ready to be exposed to a few more things. Labrador puppy training that first week home Here are the things we work on during week one. A nylon adjustable one is usually best since puppies grow quickly. It often takes the puppy a few days to adjust to having a collar on. Intro crate We introduce our puppies to a crate on day one. Literally the day we bring them home. Most puppies will cry, bark or howl while in the crate the first few or many times. Ignore it, it does not hurt the puppy at all. Always wait until the puppy settles down and is quiet, even if that quiet only lasts for just a minute or two. Learn more about crate training. Intro to housebreaking Another day one lesson and one that will last for a few weeks or months. We introduce housebreaking day one by allowing the puppy to run around an enclosed area under close supervision. If your puppy then goes potty outside, great! The thing to remember about housebreaking, is that your puppy should never be allowed to roam the house or a room without supervision. The only way to housebreak a dog is for them to get caught in the middle of an accident. That is how they learn that what they are doing is not right. Learn more about housebreaking. Intro leash We introduce a leash to our puppies around day three of being home. But once they start getting more energy and get more inquisitive, we use a Flexi-lead attached to the nylon collar to take the puppy outside. This accomplishes two goals. The gentle tugs on the leash and pressure when the puppy strains against the leash are great training for handling pressure as they get older. Intro to pressure and correction The last thing we introduce to our new puppy during the first week home is pressure and correction. This is an often-missing element to training that can severely handicap a dog that you want to be a hunting companion or competition dog. The kind of pressure I am talking about is very mild such as saying NO to the puppy when they are chewing up your shoes or scratching through the carpet. This is the way mama dogs carry their puppies and it does not hurt them at all. This does not hurt the puppy; it is exactly what a mama dog does to teach her puppies. Learn more about introducing pressure and correction. Commands to start using that first week home The first week there are some commands we start using so that the puppy will associate the words we use with actions. Puppies play and explore with their mouths, and often they will think it is great fun to bite your hands and feet. If this does not curb the behavior, I grab her lower jaw, wrapping her gums around her teeth and squeeze. I have found this to be very effective, especially if you start this the first week you have the puppy home. The longer you wait to start, the harder it becomes to stop this behavior. It takes very little pressure to stop a 7-week-old puppy from biting. Learn more about how to stop your Lab puppy from biting you. Off command The OFF command is also started day one. The OFF command is used to stop a puppy or dog from jumping on you. It can also be used to keep a dog off a sofa or other furniture. Starting day one, I gently use my knee to push down the puppy each time they jump on me. I say OFF when I do this. Usually, a gentle push with the knee is all it takes with a very small puppy. They learn this command very quickly. If your puppy is a bit more energetic or stubborn and tries to jump on you despite your gentle pushes, then you may need to use a little more force. Even if you were to knock your puppy backwards onto her back, that is not going to hurt her seriously. But it will likely make a good impression and cause her to think twice before jumping on you again. With jumping, consistency is important. You must knock your puppy off every time she jumps on you. Learn more about how to stop your Lab from jumping on you. We use this as a que when we are taking the puppy outside to go potty. We use this while the puppy is on a leash, and we are pulling them toward us. I only use this command for very young dogs. Your goal is to get the puppy to rest in your arms and not move. But if you keep at it, you will see your dog settle for longer and longer periods of time. Introduction to retrieving Lastly, since all our puppies are retrievers, we start introducing the puppy to retrieving. The first few times are simply throwing a toy a few feet and if the puppy runs out and gets it and comes back to you, great. Then take the item and throw it again. If the puppy does not come back or does not even run out to get the item, then stop for the day. Just let the retrieving develop naturally. Next week we will start more formal retrieving training. Final thoughts on what you should do that first week with your new Labrador puppy As you can see, there is a lot of training that you can do with your seven- or eight-week-old puppy. And while you can wait for training, your puppy is ready and able to learn quickly right now. I will be posting weekly on the training we are doing with Bubba, so you can get a week-by-week snapshot of how we raise and train a puppy up to be a excellent, responsive hunting or competition dog as well as a well-mannered family dog. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving. Quiet nights and crate training. This article will take you through everything you need to know, from what to buy, to how to help your pup settle in on his first day and night. Bringing a Puppy Home Bringing home a new 8 or 9 week old puppy is a potentially stressful experience for you and the pup. Of course, it will be better if you have been able to visit your puppy regularly before collecting him. But for most people, time and distance make this an unlikely option. Everything he sees, smells and hears, in your home will seem very strange to him at first. Fortunately, most puppies leave their mother and siblings at an age when they will readily accept their new friends and family. In a few days time, he will have settled in and accepted your home as his, and your family as his own. Holding Your Puppy The first thing to master when bringing home a new puppy is holding them the right way. This is the most comfortable position for puppies. But if you have had a long car journey, the first thing your puppy will need is to pee! Carry him in your arms to the area you want him to use for toilet purposes, and put him down there. Your first steps in potty training have begun. Maintaining Regular Bathroom Breaks Puppies vary widely in how often they need to empty their bladder. Some may last an hour or more from day one, whilst others seem to need to go every 15 minutes or so. During the course of the day, take the puppy to the toilet area at regular intervals half hourly at least to begin with. In addition, take him there every time he finishes a meal or wakes from a sleep. Set an alarm on your cell phone to remind you. Many Labrador puppies are very greedy and will eat astonishing quantities of food. New puppies are especially prone to upset tummies. The new environment and the stress of leaving home all add to the risk. You can reduce that risk by feeding little and often. If you want to change diets, do this gradually once the puppy has settled in. How often to feed Four times a day is the minimum number of feeds for an 8 week old puppy. Five or even six portions are better for a puppy with an upset tummy. Remember that the daily quantity is the same. More portions means smaller portions. If you get this right, there will be little or nothing left to put in the bowl when mealtimes come around You can find out more about using puppy food in training games by joining our Puppy Parenting course Meeting the Kids Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting time for all the family. For much of the first day, your puppy will probably be cuddled and admired. Kids should also be aware of safety precautions, such as learning to let the pup be if he seems uncomfortable. Some older dogs will play too roughly with a puppy. Others will growl and appear to reject the puppy at first. These are normal reactions but they do indicate that you are going to need to keep a close eye on things for a while. A baby gate or other barrier is a perfect way to keep a puppy from annoying the resident dog or cat while they adjust to the newcomer. As the day draws to a close, your thoughts will turn to night time, and getting your puppy to sleep! Or he howls the house down either constantly or intermittently throughout the night. There are two approaches to choosing where a puppy sleeps for those first few nights. One is to get him used to his permanent sleeping quarters right from the start. The other is to have him next to your bed until he has got over his homesickness usually three or four days. And if you keep going back, the howling may well increase. Leaving a puppy to cry alone in a strange house is also probably very distressing for the puppy and not a great way to start their new life. But we recommend having the puppy next to your bed for the first three nights. This reduces the risk of getting into an increasing spiral of night howling or having your puppy miserable for the first week. Just pop his blankets in there and put the box right next to where you sleep. Night waking Most 8 week old puppies wake in the night to pee for the first week or so. But the first few days is a time for settling your puppy in, building their confidence and avoiding bad habits such as whining or howling, getting started The best way to meet all those goals, is to keep your puppy very close to you until their homesickness has passed. Bonding with your puppy Your main objective now is to bond with your puppy. Spend lots of time with your puppy. Make him feel at home. Pay him a lot of attention when he is quiet, fuss and praise him when he pees outside. Once he has settled in, there will be plenty of time to think about crate training and learning manners, but for now just enjoy his Labrador puppy loveliness, and that scrummy new puppy smell. It will be gone all too soon, replaced by a bouncing, boisterous, and joyful friend who all too often smells of pond water. What you are doing is establishing good habits, which will last a lifetime. What About Crate Training? A quality dog crate is an excellent source of help with potty-training. But a puppy should not be left inside a crate for longer than his immature bladder can hold its contents. For some puppies, this is not very long at all. Socialization is a big part of bringing home a new puppy. This is the process we take puppies through, to make sure they are comfortable with all aspects of living in human society. For instance, dogs need to be confident around things like vehicles and machines. They should be happy to meet people of all different shapes and sizes and to go boldly wherever people want to take them. A confident dog is not just a happy dog; he is a safe dog. Socializing also means taking your puppy out and about. Naturally, many worry about exposing a not-yet-fully vaccinated puppy to the risk of infection. Yes you can! If you use modern dog training methods, you can get going right after bringing home a new puppy! In the first week puppy training is based on a series of fun games. So that your puppy will be learning without even realising. The games you play should lay foundations for future good behavior, teaching your puppy not snatch, to say please, to focus on you, to love their crate, to wear a harness or collar and to run towards you rather than away from you. A lot of people worry about whether or not to take a puppy to classes, and some are unable to do so. But there is a great deal you can do at home by yourself. You can avoid this by getting off to a great start with recall training in the very first week. The video below will help you. And never chase after a puppy. Puppy recall training starts right after bringing home a new puppy. Build an association between the act of running towards you and the sound of the recall word or whistle. If you call the puppy and he does not come, you will have begun to teach him that the recall command is optional. Check out our puppy recall training video to give you an idea of how easy it is to build this a good association if you start off in the right way. You can find out more about building a great recall from the beginning in Total Recall. But for now, in these first few days at home together, make sure no one calls the puppy to them. When they want him, they can simply pick him up. If he runs away, all they need to do is run in the opposite direction and he will come chasing after them. For the first few days after bringing home a new puppy, focus on bonding and helping him to feel safe. Consider having your puppy next to your bed for the first few nights. This will comfort him while he is feeling homesick and missing his mom and playmates. Expect to get up in the night to take your puppy out to pee for at least the first couple of weeks. Set a reminder to avoid teaching your puppy to cry for your attention. During his daytime naps, dive into the feeding, potty training, and obedience training guides mentioned in this article, and head over to the forum for support from our other readers, many of whom have been where you are now, and come safely out the other side! If you want help choosing an adorable puppy name, make sure you take a look at this article too!

We are located in the state of New Mexico. We are responsible breeders raising quality AKC registered Bichon Frise puppies and Poodle puppies in a loving home environment. Bichon and Poodle These puppies are from first-class bloodlines, offering wonderful companionship to add joy to your life. Socialization is a top priority at our Sweetwater Ranch, and each Bichon Frise and Poodle puppy goes home with a health guarantee. As a professional groomer for several years, I fell in love with these two distinctly different breeds. With the Bichon, I love the calm and sweet nature, as well as the size, which is a more refined breed standard. As for the Poodle, I have a love and respect for their temperament, as well as their grace and beauty. Both breeds are hypo-allergenic and make a great choice for those with allergies. Neither will shed. These puppies are from first-class bloodlines, offering wonderful companionship to add joy to your life. We have our door open to visitors, and welcome prospective poodle and bichon puppy owners to come meet our family. If you are located in another area, we do offer safe shipping to get your new puppy to you. We have safely delivered Poodle puppies in Texas, Bichon puppies in Arizona, Bichon and Poodle puppies in Colorado, Poodle puppies in Utah, Poodle puppies in Hawaii, and Bichon and Poodle puppies in many other states around this country and in Canada. All of our Poodle and Bichon Frise puppies are raised in a loving home environment. We are a licensed Kennel in Santa Fe County. Our in-home kennels have just been completely remodeled. Ask us about available Bichon and Poodle Adults! Please call or email us for more information on our beautiful Bichon Frise and Poodle puppies. Check with the breeder for up-to-date information on puppy availability. Champion bloodline breeder. Let Us Help You Find Your Poodle Puppy Buying the wrong puppy will cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars in veterinary bills and incalculable emotional stress. But it could be time-consuming to find breeders of healthy, well-behaved Poodle puppies from good lines. However, we can save you time and from the trouble of finding a reputable Poodle breeder. Leverage our experience and expertise for your peace of mind. She will discuss with you what to expect when expecting a Poodle and prep you for Poodle parenthood. To get started, email your name and zip code to FindMeAPuppy bestpoodle. However, when looking for a puppy from a breeder, we recommend that you do your due diligence. Do not just jump into buying a puppy from a breeder. Take your time to research the breeder. Note that in addition to the price you pay for a poodle puppy, owning a poodle comes with the cost of taking care of a poodle. And owning a poodle can be expensive because poodles require frequent grooming because of the nature of their coats. Learn about how much it costs to own and keep a poodle here. We wish you the best of luck as you are about to embark on the beautiful journey of owning a Poodle! Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.Top 30 Smartest Dog Breeds In The World If you're a dog lover, you've probably heard the age-old debate: which dog breeds are the smartest? While all dogs have their own unique intelligence and personality, some breeds have proven to be consistently brilliant over time. In this guide, we'll explore the top 30 smartest dog breeds ranked, from problem-solving whizzes to trainable and intuitive pups. We've done our research to provide you with an updated and informative.These pooches are joyful, lively, eager to please dogs. They are adventurous, kind, family-oriented pups who love hiking, swimming, canine games, sports and any, and all, family activities. These puppies are merry and bouncy little marshmallows. They are cuddly and sweet pups who love running around, playing, making friends and are very enthusiastic learners. The breed is divided into 3 recognized categories: Toy Poodle; Mini; Standard. Although they differ in size, one thing is for sure: they are glamorous companion pets. Questions about Poodle puppies for sale in New Mexico? We have answers. Give me an overview of Poodle puppies for sale in New Mexico. Poodles come at different prices. Different things to consider are their height, size and weight, color as well as experience of the professional breeder. You will be able to afford one! Can breeders arrange travel for New Mexico Poodles out of state? Yes they do! The breeders, companies and businesses in our network know that perfect families do not always live close by, and sometimes far-distance travel arrangements have to be made. You may even be able to pick up your pup from an airplane close by or even around the corner - it all depends! How do you screen miniature Poodle breeders in New Mexico? We really care about puppies and their well being, so it is of the utmost importance that anyone who wants to be connected to us is screened under strict rules - and then they have to take our Breeder Pledge. The health of your puppy-to-be, its wellbeing, the way it is taken care of, the place it is brought up in - all of this matters to us. The internet is available to absolutely everybody - and that includes scrupulous breeders who are out there just wanting to cash in by selling puppies. We care deeply for dogs and puppies and we love connecting good and honest breeders with families who just want to open their homes to a new and wonderful puppy. What is a puppy mill like for miniature Poodle New Mexico? A puppy mill is an awful place that is unfortunately legal. Dogs are treated terribly and all their owners want from them are their puppies which they make money out of. Are there any miniature Poodle puppies New Mexico for sale now? We just need to know a little bit about yourself and exactly what you are looking for. Then begin your search and find the Poodle of your dreams. There are breeders, companies and businesses out there that are really excited to place their beautiful puppies in your home. What kind of dogs are mini Poodle puppies New Mexico? Poodles are actually part of a group of formal dog breeds. The Poodle is available in Toy size, Miniature size and large, regal, Standard size. They are highly intelligent and their origins belong to both Germany and France. It is hard to monitor all the puppy scams that happen daily on the internet so we make sure that we have a secure Breeder Pledge and a strict screening process, in order to create the best of relationships between our customers and our breeders, companies and businesses. Our reviews reveal all!

Chronicled are dogs and puppies exposed to extreme cold or heat without adequate housing, and some living in filthy conditions, according to the report. Some of the dealers named in the report admitted to shooting dogs or puppies they didn't want. Owner: Jenn Miller. State inspectors found "multiple serious violations" during several visits to the business in .Those include dirty conditions for the animals, a dog with a mammary tumor, and dogs in need of veterinary care, one handicapped by a previous broken leg. She was cited in June for some of the repeated issues that inspectors found, according to the Humane Society's report. Owner: James Burkholder. At least four citations were issued in for refusing an inspection, interfering with inspectors and failure to keep appropriate animal records. This business had been cited for 20 violations in for poor animal care, the Horrible Hundred report says. Owner: Jennie Armstrong. Armstrong received four citations in for animal care violations, including dogs left in the sun with no shade, unsanitary kennels, and crowded cages, according to the report. Owner: Levi Kauffman. In February, the kennel was issued a cease and desist order from the state for operating without a license, according to state records. Other issues at the kennel included lack of appropriate records and failed inspections because of kennels in which dogs could be injured, according to the Humane Society's report. Owner: Sam Kauffman. The business was cited in for a housing issue by the state's Office of Dog Law. It has had repeated issues with failure to have dogs examined by a veterinarian, according to the report. Owner: Margaret Graf. It has failed state inspections repeatedly for inadequate certifications and records as well as cages that were too small, according to the report. In previous Horrible Hundred reports, Graf was called out for unsanitary kennels and inadequate shelter for dogs. Dog and puppy welcome home their soldier Staff Sgt. Russell Barnard came home after six months away to his very excited dogs. Ohio has one of the largest numbers of puppy sellers on the list, with .Some of those breeders have been cited multiple times. Breeders can be included on the Horrible Hundred report for sick or injured dogs, inhumane and unsafe conditions, and a lack of protection from the heat and cold. Humane society officials said puppies from these dealers can be sold to families in every state because puppy mills sell to pet stores across the country. Miller of Horseshoe Kennel admitted he performed an invasive dental procedure on a dog instead of taking her to a veterinarian, which resulted in her dying while she struggled in his grasp. It appears Miller paid no serious penalty and is still licensed by the state and USDA," officials said. One Kentucky breeder was mentioned and six in Indiana were included on the Horrible Hundred. The closest breeder cited is located in Brookville, Indiana. The Ohio and Kentucky breeders listed are not in the Greater Cincinnati area. For the ninth year in a row, Missouri has the largest number of puppy sellers on the list with .Officials said a large number of listings in certain states can be linked "at least partly" due to the greater availability of records in some states. To avoid buying puppies from a bad breeder, humane society officials said buyers should visit a breeder and see the conditions in which their puppy was born and raised. For more information on the Horrible Hundred, visit humanesociety. Eli D. James E. Joseph D. Miller, Millersburg, Ohio: Failed state inspection for illegal surgery on dog that was not performed by a veterinarian; another dog with injured leg, and unacceptable housing; USDA has not inspected in more than a year. Steven N. Wayne R. Troyer, Sugarcreek, Ohio: Breeder formerly accused of shooting a dog in the head in had violations for wire flooring, not making facility available for inspection repeat offender. Ivan D. Weaver, Fredericksburg, Ohio: Failed at least two state inspections in December for more than 15 violations; repeat violations for dogs kept in dangerous, small and defective housing. Andy E. Jonathan J. Yoder, Millersburg, Ohio: Inspectors found an underweight nursing mother dog, unacceptable flooring; some dogs with questionable origins. Joseph M. Yoder, Fredericksburg, Ohio: Failed two consecutive state inspections in December ; some dogs did not have clean, drinkable water; two dogs in need of dental treatment; excessive feces repeat offender. Norman E. David J. Kentucky Sharon Sherri M.

golden retriever puppy routine - Wyoming Pug Rescue Be patient! It might take months to find the perfect pug for you. Be patient with the process. Do your research. Before agreeing to work with a rescue, read their reviews, their policies, and check their c 3 status. You can do a search for their records here. The adoption process can take anywhere from days, to weeks, to months. Does the rescue adopt out of state? What is the adoption fee? Is the application open or do you have to apply for a specific dog? Are you allowed to meet available dogs before adopting? Be Kind Pug rescues are run by dedicated volunteers who spend their free time helping needy pugs. Always be kind and respectful. They work hard so that you can bring home your new pup. Common Pug Rescue Questions Are there pug puppies for adoption? Pug puppies are incredibly popular, so getting your hands on one available for adoption might be difficult. The best way to have a chance at adopting a pug puppy is to turn in an adoption application and become approved for adoption early, if possible. Then wait for a puppy to become available. Is there a pug shelter? Are there black pugs for adoption? Pug rescues rescue pugs of all sizes, ages, mixes, and colors. There tend to be more fawn pugs available, but there are also black pugs, apricot pugs, and more. No pug rescue in your area? Use Petfinder to locate an adoptable pug near you. Vocality level 5 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament ACA delightful blend of dignity and comedy, the Pug is an amiable, playful, and confident companion. They can be stubborn and headstrong, but they are pleasant and generally willing to please. They love to cavort and show off. Upkeep The Pug needs daily exercise, either in the form of a lively game or a moderate walk. They do not do well in heat and humidity. They needs minimal coat care but daily cleaning of facial wrinkles. Their smooth coat needs only occasional brushing to remove dead hairs; however, the wrinkles need regular cleaning and drying to prevent skin infections. The Pug may often wheeze and snore. Health Major concerns: Pug dog encephalitis, CHD, brachycephalic syndrome Minor concerns: elongated palate, stenotic nares, patellar luxation, Legg-Perthes, entropion, KCS, skin infections, hemivertebra Occasionally seen: seizures, nerve degeneration, distichiasis, allergies, demodicosis Suggested tests: eye, hip, knee, DNA Pug dog encephalitis Life span: 12—15 years Note: The Pug cannot tolerate heat and is sensitive to anesthesia. They are prone to corneal abrasion and obesity. The Pug is somewhat of an exception in the Toy Group because they are perhaps the only one to be descended from mastiff forebears. Although their exact ancestry has been lost in antiquity, the Pug retains many mastiff characteristics. The Pug is an ancient breed, one of several miniaturized in the Orient, where they were a favorite pet of Buddhist monasteries in Tibet many centuries ago. Here they became quite popular and were recognized as the official dog of the House of Orange after one saved the life of Prince William by sounding an alarm at the approach of Spanish soldiers in .Pugs were first brought to England during Victorian times and became incredibly popular with the wealthy, displacing the King Charles Spaniel as the favored royal breed. Several Pugs were brought to England from China in .A year earlier, the breed had been recognized by the AKC. Since that time, they have remained popular a pet. Related Content.


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golden retriever puppy routine - Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Limiting water in the evening will help limit your pups need to toilet in the night. However, if a crate is not used correctly, a dog can feel trapped and frustrated. Never use the crate as a punishment. Puppies under six months of age shouldn't stay in a crate for more than three or four hours at a time except at night. They can't control their bladders and bowels for that long. Normal Puppy Behaviours Your puppy is a baby. Jumping, nipping or biting, chewing, toileting accidents, limited attention span, grabbing objects and running off, not listening, etc. It is our job to teach our puppies how to live in our world, according to our rules, in a gentle and positive way. If you and your pup are struggling with some of these behaviours, please check out some of the resources noted below for tips on how to address them. Behavioural Issues Obedience issues and behavioural issues are not the same thing. Sometimes our pups need more one-on-one focused effort to address behavioural issues. Often the best way to deal with behavioural issues is to hire a trainer or behaviourist to come to your home for a one-on-one consult. We recommend trainers that use positive training methods. As an intelligent, trainable breed, Labradoodles do not respond well to strong aversive training. Positive reinforcement and clicker training are far more successful and fun for Labradoodles. Formal Training To best teach your pup how to live in our world, through socialization and training, it is important to understand the developmental phases of puppies. Their reaction to similar stimuli will be different depending on their stage of development. Socialization is the first step in creating a well-behaved dog. Once the pup has had a negative experience, you need to work harder to turn it into a positive experience. Present them in a way that your pup can draw confidence from you, without coddling them. Once your pup has had its second set of vaccines DAP , it can attend puppy socialization classes. It lists the situations to expose your dog to for optimal socialization. They also provide an opportunity for your dog to interact with other dogs in a controlled and supervised environment. You can find information at this link below:. But in the early days, we recommend keeping them close to you at night. It will help them feel safe and cared for — leaving their litter is quite a big step, after all. Your puppy may be unsettled and will most likely need at least one bathroom break through the night. It will all be okay in a few weeks time, though. The crate should be a cozy warm den for your puppy. Soft blankets and a cuddly toy should do the trick to help them settle. It is also a good idea to cover over the sides but keep the front uncovered so your pup can still see out. Just before bed, take your pup out for one last potty stop. With that beautiful voice of yours, gently reassure them and rest your hand in the crate so they know you are there. When your puppy wakes up in the night they definitely will at some point , listen to see if they are settling back down. Expect to be out at or am to take them straight to the loo. They will be bursting! That just about covers the first steps of Labradoodle sleep training. Very tired. But early mornings, late nights and disturbed sleep are all part of owning a puppy. As they mature emotionally and settle into their new home they will be happy in other parts of the house, and even outside of their crate. Having them in your room does not cause separation anxiety later on. Stick to a routine! Consistency is everything. It will backfire on you. Check out our guide on how to get a puppy to sleep through the night for more tips. Alone Training Labradoodles are very sociable. That can mean two things — they will always be happy to see you and that being alone can be challenging for them. This will help them feel at ease without you and also help them love their crate a little bit more too. While they are eating, go and do something close by. No need to go completely out of sight, but try not to focus on your puppy either. Labradoodles love to eat, so use this time wisely to distract them away from you. Just a few seconds is good enough in the early stages. Repeat: Practice makes perfect! Do this exercise at least once a day to build up alone time, and check out our guide to puppy separation anxiety. We expand on our little secret in our puppy potty training article. Every 30 minutes, after eating, sleeping or playing. Socialization Exercises to do This Week Early socialization is important for all puppies. It gives them confidence and teaches them to view the world in an optimistic way. Here are some puppy socialization exercises to do with your Labradoodle. Let your Labradoodle Puppy Explore the Yard The yard is a great way to introduce your puppy to the great outdoors. They will also get used to walking on different types of surfaces such as your tiled, wet lawn or open flower beds. To get them there, here is a quick exercise you can run through: Exploring different surfaces exercise Have plenty of treats ready. Only use safe surfaces, nothing too slippery. Gather surfaces such as: A piece of carpet A large tray with a thin layer of water A large piece of tin foil or cardboard, something that makes a noise. Put the surfaces out on the floor and let your puppy investigate. Let them take their time and go at their own pace. In our experience Labradoodles are quite food motivated, and you can probably use a low or medium value treat for this. You can even try to use their kibble as many will be delighted to work for their food. For more info on what rewards to use check out our article on rewards and treats. Teach your puppy their name One of the first things your puppy will learn from you is their name. Fortunately, teaching a Labradoodle puppy their name is rather simple. Pretty easy, right? Practice this a few times everyday until they start flipping their head at you every time you call their name. Make sure everyone in the family uses the same name too! Teach your puppy to sit Labradoodle training is often started by teaching them how to sit. We call this a marker word. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow with a tasty treat. Bits of smelly sausage or cheese will definitely do the trick. If this happens, try to keep it simple at first and just use their own kibble if they are motivated to work for it. Save the big guns in treat terms for when you really need it! How to do it Always begin training at home. The outside world is far too exciting at the moment, and your puppy will probably not focus on you. Stand in front of your pup with a treat in your hand and place the treat on their nose, then bring it up to your waist. Recall — How to teach your Labradoodle puppy to come back when called Your puppy should have a good grasp of their name by now, which should make recall training pretty straightforward. Pun intended. How to do it You will need plenty of those high value treats and your best cheery voice. Call your puppy only once! This is super important as you want them to learn that their name only has to be called once for them to react to it. How to do it Get your puppy excited by showing them their favorite toy and making it come to life by waving it around. Once they are interested in the toy, throw it a short distance away from you. With that lovely singing voice of yours, encourage them to bring it back to you. When they do, swap the toy in their mouth for another identical toy. Repeat about 5 times and practice everyday. Get your puppy excited by showing them their favorite toy and making it come to life by waving it around. Prevention of Resource Guarding This part of Labradoodle training is important — it will prevent resource guarding by teaching your puppy how to give up items willingly. Resource guarding is this thing that happens when dogs are unwilling to give up items back, or when they get protective over something from humans or other dogs. From the training tips above, preventing resource guarding always comes down to a good swapping. Resource guarding starts when we force our dogs as puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. To avoid that, resist your temptation to reach deep inside their mouths to get whatever it is they have. Ultimately, we want our puppies to be willing to give things up when we need them to. What we really mean is care, handling, health and grooming. Start by just showing them the brush and running it over them with the apartment side so they get used to the sensation minus the bristles. Hand Touch and Handling If you handle your puppy too roughly or grab at them, not only are they going to have a bit of a fright, but it could make them feel scared about being touched in the future. Use plenty of treats, and remember to stop if they walk away. Touch should be a pleasant thing not forced. Week 2 — Training your Labradoodle puppy Week 2 already! Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Fireworks — Watch the world go by outside your house — Play dress up. Get Started Labradoodle Training We know how challenging it can be training your doodle puppy, and adjusting your new puppy's schedule and routine to yours. Below are some tips and suggestions on how to make your puppies first few weeks together with you and your family a stress free and exciting time for all involved! Bringing Your New Puppy Home The first few days home with you, can be overwhelming for your new puppy. Everything is a new experience to them. Try to bring the puppy into your home during a time that is slow for you. Once you arrive home with your puppy, you want to start a routine as quickly as possible. Try giving your puppy a few minutes of playtime before beginning any training. This is brought on by the stress of a big change, and as long as it is not excessive or bloody, it is nothing to be concerned about. High quality Puppy and Dog foods have all the necessary vitamins and nutrients that your dog needs. One ingredient to avoid in your puppy food is corn. Corn offers little nutritional value and is mostly a filler. You may feed your puppy whatever food you prefer. However, If you are changing foods, you want to do it slowly to give them a chance to adjust to the new food. Each day, gradually add more of the new food and less of the old food. If changed too quickly, the puppy may experience diarrhea. Once in the morning and once at night. We recommend the evening feeding to occur by - pm. It is recommended that you do this until they are around 6 months of age. Remember to offer water every 2 to 4 hours, not just when offering food. As with feeding we don't like to give water too close to bedtime when training a labradoodle puppy. House Training Your Labradoodle Puppy "The key to house training is to prevent accidents from happening in the first place. Such deterrence may seem impossible if you have a puppy that seems to eliminate every few minutes. But by following a few simple steps, you can teach your canine companion proper potty deportment. Pick A Potty Spot - Choose a grassy area that is close to your home and easy to clean up. Whenever your puppy needs to go, take him to this spot and use the same route to get there every time. Supervise Your Puppy - To prevent accidents, watch your puppy closely whenever he's not confined. Get Him A Den a crate, more on that below - When you can't watch your puppy, put him where accidents are less likely to occur: In a crate. The crate is a safe, enclosed area where your puppy will instinctively refrain from eliminating. Put your puppy in its crate any time you can't watch it every single second, but don't leave your pup there too long. No more than one hour longer than its age in months four hours for a 3-month-old dog. Keep A Schedule - Puppies need to eliminate after sleeping, eating, and playing, and before bedtime. By setting up a schedule for those activities, you can make your puppy's bathroom breaks more predictable and greatly reduce the likelihood of accidents. Stick With It - It may take awhile before your puppy becomes trained. If this process sounds like work ,it is, but the better you do it -or in other words, the fewer accidents you have while training-the more quickly your dog will succeed. Crate Training Your Labradoodle I have heard many people say that crate training is mean and only serves as a punishment to the dog. They couldn't be more wrong. These are some of the many benefits of crate training: Crates are perfect for the dog to sleep in. When a dog is coming into a home where other dogs already live, the crate is a safe place for the new dog. You should never confine your pet as a form of punishment. Make sure that you invest in a good sturdy crate made either of hard plastic or of heavy steel wire. Cages with rounded edges make it easier to clean them. Make sure the cage is big enough for the dog. Puppies need a cage that is appropriate for their size. They have crates that can be divided so that a large cage can work for a smaller puppy. This eliminates the need to buy several different cages as the puppy grows. We hope you have success training your doodle puppy and find it as rewarding as we have! Follow Along on Social Media! Popular Links. Contact Puppy Training The pages within the Homecoming Prep segment of our website are private and can only be accessed through the link provided through email and through the link on the Prepare For Puppy page. The button on this page is titled Homecoming Prep. Once you are in the Homecoming Prep section of the website you will need to use your back button to navigate the pages and return to this Homecoming Prep home page. Group Classes verses Private Trainer We recommend that you plan to have a professional dog trainer work with you in group classes and-or private lessons. Sometimes both are necessary, depending on your situation. Families with young children need to plan on having a private trainer working with individual dynamics in your home. To find a great trainer near you, go to our Facebook Owners Group for Legendary Labradoodles Families to find great options. Attached is a listing of good trainers in and around Texas. Loads of videos and one on one sessions through a Facetime platform are included in the fee. This will help you prepare for your puppy's arrival and get you started on the right foot. Please be sure you, your children and all family members understand the signals your puppy is giving you. The puppy is not a toy and not meant to be held at will. Set limits on how many times a day no more than 4 that your child can hold the puppy. Children should only be allowed to hold the puppy if they are seated. Too much handling can physically hurt the puppy as well as begin the process of the puppy not tolerating your child. No walking around carrying the puppy. This is true for all children under 8. Puppies will chew on and sometimes ingest toys. If ingested, the pieces can lodge and cause your puppy to have to undergo surgery that is not always successful. Puppies generally do NOT like to be hugged. Puppies will jump up on people. There are two primary responses that most dogs will respond to. The first is to cross your arms, hiding your hands, and turn around showing the dog your backside and being very still. If your dog continues to jump on you they are not responding to this method and you should not continue trying it. Instead, step right into the space where there front paws are on the ground, being careful not to step on their feet. Repeat this behavior each time your dog jumps and instruct all people who your dog interacts with to do this same thing. Puppies and dogs in general will feed off of the people around them. Those who are very exciteable and talk in high pitched tones will create a dog who responds to seeing people by becoming super amped up and difficult to follow simple commands. Try to limit this. It's not in the puppies best interest to repeatedly be encouraged to escalate the excitement level to this high level. This is when the dog will become less focused and less able to follow your guidance. Keep in mind that your dog will feed off of you, your tone and your energy level. Once you get to this site, click on Puppies, then development stages. Use your back button to return to this page. This is usually the first place pictures and video show up. We also have a private Facebook page for owners of our puppies. At this time, you can join this group by answering a few short questions. It is titled Legendary Labradoodles Owners Group. There is info about grooming, vet care, training and all sorts of topics. There are links in the footer of this page to our main Facebook page, not the owners group and our instagram account. If you click on the icon it will take you to our pages. Labradoodle Training And Kids Our labradoodle puppy arrives and we are all so excited to see fluffy for the first time. Here are some helpful labradoodle training hints for kids. There are children who were born on a farm and who rise at 5 am to milk the cows and feed the horses without a word of complaint. See puppy care as a bonding time with your kids as well as the dog. Feed the puppy, train the puppy, clean up the occasional accident and walk the puppy together. A puppy does take time and attention. When you add a puppy to the family what you want is more wags and fewer barks. To make sure your new puppy and the kids get off on the right paw together we have a few helpful thoughts. Children And Your Labradoodle Puppy A young child makes a great playmate but not always the best baby sitter. Driven by their natural curiosity even the sweetest of children can poke or prod a puppy into an eventual episode of fear and growly behavior. Young children and puppies should be supervised. When puppy jumps up we usually react in a big way by yelling and flapping our arms about. Puppy is thrilled. She has humans who really know how to have a good time. When puppies jump all over the kids have them be very still like trees. Kids are very good at this. They ignore the puppy, put their hands at their sides and stare at the ceiling. How boring for the poor pup who was having such a good time only a moment ago. As soon as the puppy settles we like to give puppy a kibble first as she sits quietly and then the game can begin The game should be one the children enjoy as much as the puppy like chasing a ball or running as fast as they can. When your child wants to begin interacting with the puppy have him call puppy and then give him a kibble. We taught puppies to sit for their kibble and if children continue the game puppy will sit nicely rather than jumping all over the child and scaring him. Ouch That really hurt!! The Nipping Puppy Puppies nip. A good thing about staying with mum for a long period of time is that mum teaches puppy that no means no. At that stage she is a better teacher than we are. Nipping is initially a good thing because it teaches bite inhibition. The puppy who has never nipped and had a response has no idea how hard he is biting. Puppy will learn nipping is painful to those wimpy humans and the game stops. Children like to play with puppies. Have them use a tug toy instead of their clothes or fingers. Your Labradoodle Puppy at Meal Time All of us have heard people warn to stay away from Fluffy when she is eating or heard a dog growl a warning when you get close to his dish. This is a rather anti-social behaviour and can be dangerous if a two year old stumbles by when Rex is eating his kibble and liver. Ian Dunbar, dog behaviourist, had an excellent suggestion for we puppy families. Try your best to find a child. Give the child tiny bits of steak or chicken or some other delicious food. Give Rex his dinner and let the child sit beside him. Have the child pop a bit of the delicious morsel into his dish every once and a while. Rex will soon begin to view dinner interruptions as a wonderful thing. When the puppy is young interrupt meal time often with something really good and puppy will be very relaxed around humans when he eats. Many dog training schools have classes designed for kids and puppies, others have classes for everybody but welcome kids. Register puppy as soon as you can. The family should love the classes. It is what you do from the minute puppy comes home that will largely determine the temperament of the puppy. A good dog class teacher is a great resource for you and your family. Supervised puppy play is lovely for Erika and for the puppies A private trainer is lovely but no substitute for a class where puppy must fit in with a group of other puppies and people. Ian Dunbar. We believe that his approach to dog training is the right approach for the Australian Labradoodle. You can have access to a world of wonderful puppy information at Dr. The Labradoodle is a gorgeous cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, and the Goldendoodle is an adorable mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Characteristics and traits can vary significantly because these pups are a hybrid breed, but they are usually incredibly people-focused, laid back, and playful, making Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training an enjoyable moment. Doodles make awesome pets, especially if their owners fully comprehend the importance of training from a young age. The type of adult dog breed you end up with depends a little bit on their personality and a lot on how you take care of them. Before you begin Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training, it helps to decide exactly what kind of dog you want to have. Do Plenty of Research It is vital that you have an understanding of canine learning theory because dogs learn very differently from people. A puppy does whatever it can to get what it desires the most at that moment. There are plenty of online resources that can teach you about methods to get the best out of your training. It may be helpful to consult a puppy training professional or spend some time at doggy school to get a headstart and pick up tips from experts. Your pup is a blank slate — with your guidance, they can develop the traits and learn the behaviors that you value the most. Labradoodle and Goldendoodle puppies are curious and they love exploring their new home as they make it their own. Getting it right during the early stages sets a precedent for the rest of their life. Spending as much time as you can with them helps build the foundation for a happy, confident and well-behaved dog. Form a Bond and Gain Trust With Your Doodle Before you do anything, you will need to develop a strong bond with your new pal to make sure they trust you. Try to keep your own energy as calm as possible — they bounce off you. While it may be tempting to get excited by their cuteness and mirror their enthusiasm, this makes it more difficult for them to listen to you and regulate their own behavior. Teach your furry friend what to expect from the moment they get into the home to stop them from getting confused. Use Positive Reinforcement Intimidation or fear tactics are never the best way to build a loving and secure bond between you and your fur baby. To make the most of this method, reward your pooch for good behavior and ignore bad behavior. Treats, verbal praise, and clicker training reward them for a job well done. This also helps them to make positive associations with you and training time. Everyone has their own list of priorities and yours will depend on factors such as whether you have children or other pets. Potty training is a straightforward, formulaic process that your new puppy will adapt to. A consistent routine is the key to getting them toilet trained as efficiently and effectively as possible. Let them outside at the same time each day, and take them to the same spot. In the early days, it may be difficult for them to make it all the way through the night, so try to make provisions for this stage. Select a word for them to associate with potty training and repeat it over and over whenever you take them to the toilet. Every time they do their business outside, give them lots of cuddles and praise, treat them and play one of their favorite games. There will be setbacks — getting it right takes time! If they mess in the wrong place, take them outside to their toileting spot and give them the chance to relieve themselves. We cannot emphasize the importance of praising them when they get it right enough! Crate Training Not everyone opts to crate train their puppy, but it can be useful for the earliest stages of Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training. The crate gives them a safe place they can call their own. Be sure to make the time they spend in the crate a positive experience, and never leave them in there for more hours than their age in months plus one hour. For example, a three-month-old puppy can be kept in their crate for no more than four hours. Socialization Dogs are social animals, and Goldendoodles and Labradoodles, in particular, are happiest when they spend time pleasing people and playing. However, building confidence takes effort and guidance from their pet parent. If you want to ensure they grow up to have a balanced personality, you need to expose them to plenty of dogs, people and different situations. Take them out and about as much as possible to help them become accustomed to a range of noises, sights and sounds. Bring them to a local dog park to get them used to spending time around other dogs. Manners Your adorable little pup has the potential to develop a host of bad habits, but these behaviors can be nipped in the bud. Temperament and Dealing with Small Children There are several steps to take while getting your canine cutie used to being a member of a family with children. Both pup and child will need to have clear boundaries mapped out for them so they can build mutual trust and be kind to each other. Let the child practice with a toy before they pick up or cuddle the pup. Ensure the child sits down when they play with the dog; this helps to prevent the pup from getting overexcited. Teach the child to do small tasks to help care for the dog, such as filling the bowl or helping with grooming. Knowing what to expect according to the time of day helps them to settle and feel reassured. Always wake them up at the same time, feed and walk them around the same time and do training exercises at a set time. Patience Is Everything! The best piece of advice for Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training is to have patience. Spend lots of time bonding and playing with your pooch so you can make training something fun that you both enjoy. The Basics First, although it will seem obvious, reward good behaviour, especially when training. Reward can be praise given in a loving tone, reward can be a food treat, but your puppy will learn quicker if it is promptly made obvious what puppy is doing that is getting it all these good things! Dogs understand glowers, growls, nips, shaking the scruff of the neck. Striking is what bears, cats and humans do and is not appropriate discipline for a dog! It will make them hand-shy as they will not be certain if you are lifting a hand to their head to pet them or to hit them. You want them to perk their ears when they hear their name and associate it with good things like belly rubs and treats! Most of us buy the best dog food we can, hypo-allergenic, no GMO, no grains known to cause allergies… and then we give them treats loaded with all this junk. Please choose treats that your dog is not allergic to! Establishing Pack Order The most effective training methods use the instincts that your dog is born with to train with. How to discipline, when to discipline and how much to discipline are all important. But I guarantee you that your family will be happier if the dog is not at the top of the order! Puppy should always be fed last and you and your family eat first. In the wild, the pack leader eats first, followed by the others in order of dominance in the pack. Your puppy needs to know that ALL members of your family outrank it or the puppy will feel that it is right for it to establish dominance over family members kids by nipping, growling and other doggy dominance behaviors. If you have young children, teach your puppy that it must be invited to eat when you put the food down. After it has learned that with you, your children can take turns feeding it so it learns to mind your children also. Your children with your supervision should not only practice giving the puppy treats where it takes them gently, but they should also take treats or toys away and the puppy must not be allowed to growl or nip. Your puppy should not be allowed to nip or bite. It is not teething, it is establishing dominance. Pinch the upper or lower jaw of the puppy with your fingers and thumb. The object is to make it uncomfortable but not painful. In order of increasing seriousness, the mother will discipline as follows: 1. Glower and walk away 2. Growl 3. Growl and nip pinching can imitate this 4. Grab bite the scruff of the neck and shake the scruff. Grab bite the scruff of the neck and hold the offending puppy to the ground until it stops struggling, often growling while doing so. If you do use 5, it is important that it not be done for minor naughtiness, as it is a serious action. If you use an overly severe discipline, you are being a bully. Also, once you choose to use 5, do not release the scruff and let the puppy up UNTIL it stops struggling, even if it scratches, cries, struggles,etc. Using 5 or any of these disciplines does not hurt the puppy, but it does teach it that it is not the pack leader. After all, you do not want your puppy soon to be an adult disciplining growling at, biting your children! Australian labradoodles are a much less dominant breed than some others they are not dobermans or pit bulls after all! When puppy wakes up after an hour or two, it goes immediately outside for a potty. Puppy is awake for a while, goes out every half hour for a potty. I eat lunch and feed the puppy. Puppy goes outside for a potty after a meal, gets rewarded and then goes for a nap in the crate. After it wakes up, it goes outside for a potty, gets rewarded, and comes back inside to play for a while… you get the idea! Puppies will circle and squat just before peeing, so if you are watching, you can catch it just before it starts to pee or just as it begins, and quickly take it outside with your treat too! Girl puppies are more succeptible to bladder infections than boys, but boys can get them too! In later stages of a bladder infection, you will see blood in the pee, sometimes LOTS of it. If you can catch it in the early stages, it is much better for the puppy… If you are familiar with homeopathics, they can often be used successfully to treat bladder infections. If you are having training issues with your puppy, regardless of what breed it is or who you got it from, we recommend that you have a dog trainer come to your home and offer suggestions or coaching. Copper Canyon Australian Labradoodles is a premium rated labradoodle breeder. All our labradoodles are fully health tested and our labradoodle puppies come with a 2 year genetic guarantee against genetic health issues. Come fall in love with a labradoodle! That was a smart move on your part, because the Doodle is more than just adorably cute; you have a loving and highly intelligent dog who is eager to please and is curious about his or her new environment. What your puppy discovers is up to you, because your Labradoodle will learn whatever you teach it. Those lessons begin the moment it arrives in your home. Put yourself in the place of your puppy. Being anxious makes you nervous, and being nervous makes you. But where? And does it matter? What's in it for You - and Your Doodle? As it turns out, most dog owners say it does matter, a lot. The Labradoodle is a family dog, and as such, needs to live with its family, indoors. That means having a dog that has indoor manners and habits. The Labradoodle has to learn when and where it can go potty. Postponing potty training your Labradoodle will make the process much harder, and it will take longer if you wait to begin instructing your puppy on your expectations. Left untouched, they serve as beacons, or direction finders, to remind your dog to go in this location. Even if you clean it up, you might not be able to remove the scent that draws your pup back to the X that marks the spot. The answer to that question depends on you more than it does on your Labradoodle. Puppies are all about sleeping, waking, eating, playing and pottying. The most difficult part of the potty training process is being ever vigilant. You have to watch your Labradoodle constantly for signs that it needs to go potty. Training yourself to supervise your doodle may be the hardest part of all, but if you know the signs to look for and you have a strategic plan, your Doodle will become a housebroken member of the family, and a pleasure to be around or leave at home without worry that your carpet and floors will become soiled. Training a Labradoodle puppy to use a designated spot to relieve itself is a matter of age and bladder control versus time. Expecting a young pup to hold it for five or six hours sets him up for failure and up for disappointment, if not displeasure. Figure that your pup can hold its bladder and bowels one hour for each month of age, and then add one more hour. A three-month old puppy, for example, should be able to wait to do its business for one to three hours, plus one, or four hours. Your puppy may be able to go longer or need to potty sooner. Rather than wait until the last minute, take your dog out at the three-hour mark. They also have to go outside when they become excited. All training can be divided into one of two categories, regardless of the method used: ignoring or praising. If your Labradoodle has an accident in the house, scoop up the mess and take it outside to the spot you want her to use. After all, no one ever made a fuss about it until now. Dogs have an incredible sense of smell, and the spot in the house they used once will lure them again and again to do their business unless you remove all evidence of the act. On the other hand, praise your pup for pottying in the location you designated. You can give small treats as rewards. Offer tons of praise and a treat, and after 30 days, wean your pup off the treats. The praise will mean much more to your dog. So which method is best? The one that works. The crate recreates the den your puppy grew up in, and no dog wants to soil its own house if it can be helped. As a benefit, the crate also provides a safe break from all the action in the rest of the house, and sometimes your puppy will choose to hang out in the crate. Baby gates work the same way a crate works. About The Breed Training Your Labradoodle Australian Labradoodles are incredibly intelligent animals, but that doesn't mean that they don't need to be trained! The good news though, is that they are incredibly trainable and are always top of the class at puppy training classes. Training your puppy properly at an early age will pay dividends in the long run. A well-trained dog is a happy dog. We Set Our Puppies Up For Success When you collect your puppy from Lomond Hills, he will not have received any training as such virtually impossible with a whole litter of young puppies , but we do employ particular protocols and utilise some smart methods to set your puppy up for success. A couple of examples: 1. When we are feeding, playing or doing something else that is a fun or positive experience from puppy's perspective, we call them to come to us. When we are going to worm them, clip their toenails or do something similarly neutral or negative from puppy's perspective, we don't call them — we just go and pick them up. This helps them to learn that when they get called, good things happen. It is amazing the difference this makes when it comes to you training your dog to come back to you when he has been off-lead. When our puppies are young and only nursing with mum, they stay in one warm cosy room and mum cleans up after them. When they start eating solids and pooping more, we open up the doggy door and they have access to an indoor toileting area where we use paper bedding. This area is fully drained and is disinfected regularly, so it is a clean and safe environment for our puppies, but is realistic and really gives them a head-start on toilet training. They very quickly learn to follow their mum through the doggy door when they need to go to the toilet! It is amazing the difference this will make when you take puppy home — you will have him toilet-trained in no time! It is important that every member of the household follows these consistently. Consistency trains dogs. Training must start the very second that your puppy arrives in his new home. The younger he is, the faster he will learn. That means that humans should walk through doors before he does and humans should eat their meal before he eats his. The youngest children or smallest human in the house need to be able to exert authority over him — an easy one for children is for them to be involved in controlling the supply of food, under adult supervision of course. It so happens that ignoring your Australian Labradoodle is just about the most effective punishment since they are such people-focused dogs. You have just rewarded undesirable behaviour. This way, he learns that jumping up your leg achieves nothing. When you spot him sitting on the floor looking up at you angelically, make a point of going over to him, speaking to him, giving him a cuddle and lots of attention. This way, he learns that polite, desirable behaviour earns the reward he wants. When puppy is in his crate and is barking because he wants to be let out, ignore him and do not make eye contact with him. If you give him what he wants and let him out now, he will learn that when he barks, he gets what he wants and you will have encouraged him to display undesirable behaviour. Instead, wait for him to stop barking before you let him out. If this is not possible due to his persistence, grab your 30 second opportunity if need be, but the former is better! This way, you have taught him that quiet, polite, desirable behaviour gets rewarded. You can extrapolate this method across all aspects of his behaviour management and training. He must display desirable behaviour to get what he wants. Undesirable behaviour gets ignored. It's really simple — just get inside his head and think from his perspective. Read More Mouthing Puppies love putting things in their mouths and this usually includes human fingers. You need to adopt a zero-tolerance policy on mouthing, right from the very beginning. If he nibbles at your fingers, squeal like a puppy and he should stop. If need be, remove them from his mouth and distract him with a toy or something that he is allowed to chew on. Make a fist so that he cannot physically get your fingers into his mouth. If he remains determined to nibble your fingers, end play time with him, ignore him, stop making eye contact. This way, he learns that nibbling fingers is not allowed and you will ignore him if he persists. Puppies love putting things in their mouths and this usually includes human fingers. There is a little game you can play to encourage him to stop mouthing in a positive way. Warning: this should only be undertaken by adults with a reasonably high pain threshold! Take a little piece of cooked sausage, chicken or something else equally tasty. Place it in the palm of your hand and make a fist around it. Go and sit on the floor next to puppy, presenting the closed fist to him. He will nibble and mouth at your fist to try and get the treat. Grin and bear it. As soon as he does this, open up your fist and present the treat to him on the palm of your hand. This way, he learns that mouthing your hand achieves nothing, sitting looking up at you politely does! Instead, what we have found works best quickest and most efficient is to take your puppy outside into your garden at frequent, specific times. The final time of the day that you should take him out to the toilet is last thing before bed. Stay with him and watch what he is doing. As soon as he has done the toilet, go over to him and make a big fuss of him, praise him to the hilt. Then take five minutes or so just to play with him before returning inside. Providing you follow this procedure religiously, there is little reason why it should take you any longer than a week to have him house trained. Overnight is slightly different.Go to the crate, pick him up and pop him outside. Use your chosen phrase e. Once he's finished, praise him and bring him back to the crate. Say goodnight but don't make too much of a fuss or play with him, then go back to bed yourself. You want him to know that he has to toilet outside and not have accidents in his crate, but you don't want him to think that if he cries in the middle of the night that he gets playtime. If you are consistent with this routine then after a couple of weeks he shouldn't need to go to the toilet in the middle of the night as he will have learned to hold it. Read More Crate training The best way to introduce your puppy to his crate is to feed him in it. Pop his bowl of food in the crate, guide him towards it and if necessary, pick him up and put him inside. Ask your puppy to 'sit' and then serve him the food. Whilst he is busy eating, gently close the door so that he gets used to the feeling of being enclosed. It is important that the crate is a very positive place for your puppy to be, and the food really helps to fix the association. The crate should never be used as a place of punishment.The best way to introduce your puppy to his crate is to feed him in it. He will notice the food straight away and start eating. The crate should never be used as a place of punishment… ever! Just before you go to bed, pop him inside his crate and close the door whilst speaking to him in a positive, but calm and soothing voice. When you wake up in the morning, go back to his crate, open up the door and take him outside to the toilet. You will find that he will likely have done the toilet on the paper in his crate overnight. This is absolutely normal and to be fully expected. The frequency of this occurring will decrease as time goes on and as he learns what time you go and let him out every morning. A consistent time helps a lot! On each occasion that he has a clean and dry night, give him lots of praise first thing in the morning before taking him outside. Eventually, he will be clean and dry overnight, every night, and it is at this stage that you can remove the newspaper and cover the entire floor area with a nice soft blanket or bed. Read More Training to sit This element of training should be started from the very moment you bring your puppy home. The best time to conduct this training is at meal times. Prepare the bowl of food as you usually would and approach your puppy holding the bowl in one hand. Bend over keeping the bowl high enough that your puppy cannot get his nose into it! Remember to say 'sit' while you are doing this. Once he is in the sitting position reward him with his food and lots of praise. This element of training should be started from the very moment you bring your puppy home. Read More Lead training your puppy Best way to start off — train your puppy to walk by your side, without a lead. Introducing the lead before he is trained to walk by your side can be disastrous, as he will try to resist the lead, pull against you and try to slip out of it — a negative experience for everyone. So, start off in your back garden, just you, your puppy and some tasty treats. Best way to start off — train your puppy to walk by your side, without a lead. He will follow the treat and after a few paces, stop, ask him to sit and let him have the treat. Give him lots of praise. Then take out another treat and repeat the process. Each time you repeat, try to walk a few extra steps before letting him have his treat. Only spend about 5 minutes doing this at a time, as puppies have quite a short attention span. It is a good idea to do this about 3 — 4 times per day though, especially when you are starting out. This way he will remember the previous time and will know exactly what he has to do in order to get the treat. Do this for about a week. Once you have reached this stage, it is time to introduce the lead. Start off by using a very lightweight collar and lead — the little canvas puppy collar and lead sets are great. Clip on his lead, and then repeat the process of walking a few steps and giving a treat, just as you have done previously, but with the lead on. You have trained him to walk beside you, to heel. The lead is there as a back-up in case he sees something he wants to chase. The best place to practise this is in the back garden so that you have enough space, but are in a safe and enclosed area. Firstly, ask him to sit, using the verbal command and hand signal as described above. If he starts to follow, you need to start again by asking him to sit. Initially, just take three or four steps back before stopping, bending down and calling him by his name in an encouraging tone, e. Repeat the process several times; increasing the number of backward steps you take each time. Just as with the lead training, little and often is the key to achieving this. To make the transition from on lead to off lead, it is a good idea to practise the recall in a wide-open space, but using an extension lead. This allows you to ask him to stay and walk quite a distance away before calling for him to come to you. Once this is well established, the next step is to let him off the lead but it is very important that you call him back to you nice and often to make sure that he is listening to you and paying attention. It is worth carrying some treats initially to reward him every time he comes back to you when asked. If for whatever reason, you struggle to get him back to you, do not lose patience and get angry with him as this will only make matters worse. Read More Dealing with scary situations If you take your puppy to a new place or embark on a new activity, there is the potential for him to be nervous or scared of something. In order to prevent this from happening, or to overcome a particular thing he is frightened of there are a two things you need to do. You need to be a cool, calm and confident pack leader that is scared of nothing. You cannot show fear or distress in new situations and you cannot make a big deal about them. If you take your puppy to a new place or embark on a new activity, there is the potential for him to be nervous or scared of something. You must behave as if everything is normal, mundane and boring. If you show negative emotion, you are reinforcing his belief that there is something to be scared of — if the pack leader is scared, everyone should be! If you repeatedly show negative emotion such as fear or distress in situations such as this, he might start to think that the role of pack leader is vacant since you are not behaving as a pack leader should. If he thinks that role is vacant, you are in for trouble — he will try to fill it! If you avoid the experiences he is scared of, he will be scared of these for life. You need to get him comfortable with the things he is scared of by repeatedly doing them over and over again in a short space of time, whilst he is young. This will help in your efforts to create a happy, relaxed dog that is a pleasure to take everywhere with you and join in with all of your family activities. Training is never finished or complete, it is ongoing and requires regular reinforcement. The hard work is at the start, but if you want it to last, you need to be willing to refresh his training on a regular basis. Popular Links.