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If you're looking for a unique and lovable canine companion, the Dalmadoodle might be just the breed for you. This delightful hybrid dog combines the distinctive traits of the Dalmatian and the Poodle, resulting in a charming and intelligent four-legged friend. Here, we'll explore the characteristics, care requirements, and advantages of owning a Dalmadoodle. Whether you're a seasoned dog lover or considering getting a pet for the first time, the Dalmadoodle is a breed worth discovering. The Dalmadoodle is a relatively new hybrid breed, resulting from the intentional crossbreeding of a Dalmatian and a Poodle. The goal was to combine the Dalmatian's striking spots and the Poodle's hypoallergenic and non-shedding coat. While the breed's exact origin is unclear, it likely emerged in the late 20th century when designer dog breeds gained popularity. Appearance and Size When it comes to appearance, Dalmadoodles inherit a mix of traits from their Dalmatian and Poodle parents. They have a unique and eye-catching look that sets them apart. One of their most notable features is their coat, which can vary in texture and length depending on the genetic influence of their parents. The coat can be curly, wavy, or even straight. In terms of size, Dalmadoodles typically fall into the medium to large range. The exact size can vary based on the size of their parent breeds. On average, they stand between 18 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh anywhere from 40 to 70 pounds. It's important to note that individual Dalmadoodles may differ in size even within the same litter. Temperament and Personality Dalmadoodles are known for their friendly and outgoing nature. They tend to be affectionate, loyal, and sociable, making them great companions for families and individuals alike. These dogs love being around people and enjoy being part of family activities. Their temperament is influenced by their Dalmatian and Poodle heritage. From the Dalmatian side, they may exhibit qualities such as being alert, protective, and energetic. From the Poodle side, they can inherit intelligence, trainability, and playful nature. This combination of traits makes Dalmadoodles highly adaptable and versatile. Due to their intelligent nature, Dalmadoodles require mental stimulation and regular exercise to prevent boredom. Engaging their minds through puzzle toys , training sessions, and interactive games is essential. They thrive in environments where they receive attention, love, and positive reinforcement. Early socialization and consistent training from a young age are crucial to shaping their temperament and ensuring they grow into well-behaved and balanced dogs. Training and Exercise Needs Training a Dalmadoodle can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. These dogs are highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them quick learners. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and rewards. Early socialization is essential to expose Dalmadoodles to various people, animals, and environments. This helps them develop confidence and good manners. Enrolling them in puppy classes or obedience training can also be beneficial for their socialization and obedience skills. In terms of exercise, Dalmadoodles are active dogs that require regular physical activity to stay happy and healthy. Daily walks , playtime in a fenced yard, and interactive games are all necessary for meeting their exercise needs. They also enjoy participating in dog sports like agility, obedience, and rally. Engaging their minds and bodies through various activities will keep them mentally stimulated and prevent destructive behaviors that may arise from boredom. It's worth noting that each Dalmadoodle is an individual, and their exercise needs may vary based on factors such as age, health, and overall energy levels. Consulting with a veterinarian or professional dog trainer can help determine the appropriate exercise routine for your specific Dalmadoodle. Grooming and Coat Care Dalmadoodles have a coat that can range from curly to wavy, depending on the specific genes they inherit from their Dalmatian and Poodle parents. Their coat is generally low-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for individuals with allergies. However, it's important to note that individual Dalmadoodles may vary in their level of allergenicity, and it's recommended to spend time with the breed before making a decision. To keep their coat looking its best, regular grooming is necessary. Brushing their coat a few times a week helps prevent matting and tangling. This also helps to remove any loose hair and keeps their coat clean and healthy. Additionally, regular bathing should be done as needed, using a mild dog shampoo that won't strip their coat of natural oils. Dalmadoodles may also require professional grooming every few months. This includes trimming their coat, particularly around the face, ears, and paws. Nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing should also be a part of their regular grooming routine. Checking and cleaning their ears regularly helps prevent infections, while maintaining proper dental hygiene promotes good oral health. Health and Lifespan Dalmadoodles, like all dogs, can be prone to certain health issues. However, being a hybrid breed, they may inherit a diverse set of genes from their parent breeds, which can sometimes result in improved overall health compared to purebred dogs. Some of the health concerns that Dalmadoodles may be prone to include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy PRA , hypothyroidism, and certain genetic disorders that can affect both Dalmatians and Poodles. Potential owners need to research and choose a responsible breeder who performs health screenings on their breeding dogs to minimize the risk of hereditary conditions. Maintaining regular veterinary check-ups is essential to monitor the overall health of your Dalmadoodle. Vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental care are critical aspects of their healthcare routine. By providing a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and a loving environment, you can help promote their overall well-being. The average lifespan of a Dalmadoodle is typically between 10 to 15 years, but this can vary depending on individual factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and overall healthcare. With proper care and attention, Dalmadoodles can lead happy and healthy lives. Feeding and Nutrition To ensure the optimal health and well-being of your Dalmadoodle, providing a balanced and nutritious diet is crucial. High-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level should be the foundation of their diet. It's recommended to choose a dog food that lists meat as the main ingredient, as dogs are primarily carnivorous animals. Avoid dog foods that contain excessive fillers, artificial additives, or low-quality ingredients. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate portion sizes and feeding schedule for your Dalmadoodle, taking into account their individual needs. In addition to commercial dog food, you can also incorporate healthy, dog-safe fruits and vegetables into their diet as treats or as part of their meal. Remember to avoid feeding them toxic foods such as chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic. Always ensure that fresh water is readily available for your Dalmadoodle to stay hydrated throughout the day. Monitor their weight and adjust their food intake as needed to maintain a healthy body condition. Living Arrangements and Social Interaction Dalmadoodles can adapt to various living arrangements, including apartments or houses with yards. While they are generally an active breed, they can adjust their exercise needs to the available space. However, they thrive when provided with ample opportunities for physical exercise and mental stimulation. Daily walks, interactive play, and engaging toys are essential for their well-being. Like any other dog, Dalmadoodles require early socialization to ensure they grow into well-rounded and confident adults. Introduce them to various people, animals, and environments from a young age. Positive experiences will help them develop good manners, reduce the likelihood of behavioral issues, and strengthen their bond with you and your family. Advantages of Owning a Dalmadoodle Owning a Dalmadoodle comes with several advantages that make them a wonderful choice for dog lovers: 1. Unique Coat: Dalmadoodles have a distinctive and eye-catching coat that sets them apart. Their low-shedding and hypoallergenic coat makes them suitable for individuals with allergies or those who prefer a dog with minimal shedding. Intelligence: Dalmadoodles inherit intelligence from both the Dalmatian and Poodle breeds. They are highly trainable and quick learners, making them a great choice for obedience training and various dog sports. Friendly and Loving Nature: Dalmadoodles are known for their friendly and affectionate disposition. They form strong bonds with their owners and are excellent family pets. Their loving nature makes them great companions for individuals of all ages, including children. Adaptability: Dalmadoodles can adapt well to different living environments, including apartments or houses with yards. They are flexible when it comes to exercise needs and can adjust to the activity level of their owners. Companionship: Dalmadoodles thrive on human companionship and enjoy being part of the family. They are social dogs that love spending time with their owners and participating in family activities. Versatile: Due to their mixed heritage, Dalmadoodles possess a combination of traits from the Dalmatian and Poodle breeds. This versatility makes them suitable for various lifestyles and households. Choosing a Dalmadoodle Puppy When selecting a Dalmadoodle puppy, it's significant to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. Here are some key considerations: 1. Research and References: Do thorough research and seek recommendations from trusted sources, such as local breed clubs or reputable online platforms. Read reviews and gather information about the breeder's reputation and experience. Visit the Breeder: Schedule a visit to the breeder's facilities to observe the living conditions and ensure they are clean and well-maintained. Interact with the puppies and their parents to assess their temperament and overall health. Health Clearances: Inquire about the health screenings performed on the parent dogs. Responsible breeders will conduct tests for common health issues, such as hip dysplasia and eye diseases, to ensure the puppies have a lower risk of inheriting these conditions. Socialization and Training: Ask the breeder about the socialization and training practices they employ with their puppies. Early socialization is crucial for Dalmadoodles to develop good manners and adjust well to different environments. Documentation: Request the necessary paperwork, including health records, vaccination history, and registration documents. A reputable breeder should provide you with the necessary documentation for your Dalmadoodle puppy. Remember, a responsible breeder will genuinely care about their dogs' well-being and will be available to answer any questions you may have throughout the process. Introducing a Dalmadoodle to Your Family Bringing a Dalmadoodle into your family requires careful preparation to ensure a smooth transition. Here are some tips for introducing a Dalmadoodle to your family: 1. Create a Safe Environment: Prepare your home by creating a safe space for your new Dalmadoodle. Remove any hazards or items that could be chewed or swallowed. Set up a comfortable bed, food, and water bowls, and provide appropriate toys. Gradual Introductions: Allow your Dalmadoodle to adjust gradually to their new surroundings. Introduce family members one at a time, allowing them to interact and bond with the dog calmly and positively. Establish a Routine: Dogs thrive on routine, so establish a consistent schedule for feeding, exercise, and potty breaks. This helps your Dalmadoodle feel secure and understand what is expected of them. Socialization: Continue socializing your Dalmadoodle by exposing them to different people, animals, and environments. This helps them develop confidence and become well-rounded dogs. Training and Boundaries: Start training your Dalmadoodle early using positive reinforcement techniques. Establish clear boundaries and rules, and be consistent with enforcing them. This will help them understand their place within the family hierarchy. Patience and Love: Remember that it takes time for a Dalmadoodle to fully adjust to their new home. Show patience, understanding, and lots of love as you build a strong bond with your new furry family member. By following these guidelines, you can ensure successful integration of your Dalmadoodle into your family, setting the stage for a lifetime of love and companionship. Final Opinion The Dalmadoodle is a wonderful hybrid breed that brings together the best of both Dalmatians and Poodles. Their unique appearance, friendly temperament, and intelligence make them an excellent choice for dog lovers seeking a devoted and lovable companion. Remember to provide them with proper care, training, and socialization to ensure they thrive in your family. If you're ready to welcome a Dalmadoodle into your life, get started on your journey to find the perfect furry friend. A: Yes, Dalmadoodles are generally good with children. They are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them excellent family pets when properly socialized. Q2: Do Dalmadoodles require a lot of exercises? A: Dalmadoodles are an active breed and require regular exercise to stay physically fit and mentally stimulated. Daily walks, playtime, and interactive toys are recommended to meet their exercise needs. Q3: Are Dalmadoodles hypoallergenic? A: While Dalmadoodles have a lower likelihood of triggering allergies due to their Poodle ancestry, individual allergies can vary. It's typical to spend time with the breed to assess compatibility if you have allergies. Q4: How often should I groom my Dalmadoodle? A: Dalmadoodles should be groomed regularly to keep their coat looking their best. Brushing several times a week, professional grooming every few months, and regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and teeth brushing are required parts of their grooming routine. Q5: What is the average lifespan of a Dalmadoodle? A: The average lifespan of a Dalmadoodle is around 10 to 15 years, depending on various factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and overall healthcare. The link has been copied! There is evidence to support that the Dalmatian was originally birthed in either the British Isles, Europe, North Africa, or Asia which is a very broad range of locations. By the s, Dalmatians were generally associated with the region Dalmatia, located in central Europe near the Adriatic Sea, which is where this breed got its name from. The Dalmatian has always been a working dog, from shepherds, to war dogs, to retrievers, to a bird dog, and even to circus dogs! As a coach dog, Dalmatians were responsible for trotting alongside horse-drawn carriages and guarding the vehicle when left unattended. Starting back in the s when horses pulled fire engines, Dalmatians started getting associated with firefighters. The American Kennel Club began recognizing the Dalmatian in .Poodle Breed History: While commonly associated with the French, the Poodle actually originated as a duck hunter in Germany over years ago. Eventually, Poodles made their way from the lake to the life of luxury as they were the breed of choice by French nobles, and eventually royalty across all of Europe. To this day, the Poodle is still the national dog of France. The Toy Poodle started in the United States in the early 20th century to be a city-dwelling companion dog. The exact origin of when this mix was intentionally bred is unknown. Dalmatians can be bred with toy, miniature, and standard poodles, although miniature and standard are far more common. The size of the poodle that the Dalmatian is bred with is a significant influence on the size of the Dalmadoodle puppy. Both Poodles and Dalmatians need rigorous grooming care. Dalmatians need to be brushed around times a week and Poodles need to be brushed just as often, if not more frequently depending on coat length and how curly it is. Mix these two coats together and you can expect to brush Dalmadoodle puppies at minimum every other day. Are Dalmadoodles Hypoallergenic? Do Dalmadoodles Shed? It depends. Dalmatians are not hypoallergenic, while poodles are. Once you breed a hypoallergenic and a non-hypoallergenic dog together there is no way to guarantee that the mixed-breed is hypoallergenic. With most doodle breeds, thanks to having one hypoallergenic parent and one non-hypoallergenic parent, you never know for sure if a puppy will be hypoallergenic and non-shedding or not. It may be safe to assume that the Dalmatian Poodle mix will shed less than a Dalmatian, but it cannot be guaranteed. On average, Dalmadoodles live from 11 to 14 years. Dalmadoodle Dog Breed Common Health Concerns: Mixed breeds often decrease the risk of genetic health concerns but, that being said, there are some common concerns to be aware of. Another less common health issue is gastric volvulus dilation. Due to the cost of treating these common health concerns, we highly encourage all dog owners invest in pet insurance. We recommend getting a free online quote from Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. Dalmadoodles are intelligent dogs who like to keep busy. Some Dalmadoodles have been known to be stubborn, but with a firm leader, they can learn quickly and will obey commands. They are not known for being an aggressive dog, but may bark some when meeting new people. Both Dalmatians and Poodles are energetic dogs that need owners who can keep up with them. Keeping your dog physically and mentally challenged will prevent them from engaging in destructive activities. Plan on a minimum of 90 minutes of exercise daily. This could be between walks, hikes, jogs, or a game of fetch! A big fenced in yard would be preferred for allowing a Dalmadoodle to run around in. Bonus points if you have a dog door! Both breeds are very intelligent and need mental stimulation as well as physical exertion to keep them happy and healthy. Dalmatian Poodle Mix Pictures Photo courtesy of delilah. Photo courtesy of flowerpowerdoodles on Instagram. Photo courtesy of mazziratti on Instagram. Alternative Breeds to the Dalmatian Poodle Mix. Dalmadoodles can vary in appearance, which is often the case with mixed breeds. Nevertheless, they should be medium to large-sized dogs who typically stand about inches at the shoulder. Their average weight is about 55 pounds, although this might range from 40 to 75 pounds with the males generally being larger than the females. They have an athletic build with a long tail and snout capped with a black nose. Their eyes are usually soft, dark, and full of soulful expression. A Dalmadoodle puppy can inherit its phenotype or the way it looks from either the mother or the father, or any combination of traits from its parents. This means that it can have black or liver spots on a white coat like a Dalmatian, or the spots may appear in bigger patches. There may also be no spots or patches, and your Dalmadoodle may be entirely white or even black or brown, depending on the color of the poodle parent. Many people are interested in the Dalmadoodle because of its reputation for being hypoallergenic. Unfortunately, the completely hypoallergenic dog is a myth. Certainly, any dog can potentially be an allergen. However, the Poodle does lack the fine undercoat that tends to cause most allergies. On the other hand, your Dalmadoodle may not inherit these hypoallergenic properties from its poodle parent and may instead inherit the Dalmatian coat. In this case, it will not be suitable for somebody with dog allergies. Help Dogs In Need Our blog posts aim to provide comprehensive, accurate, and objective information on all types of dogs, helping our readers make informed choices that fit their lifestyle. We don't endorse any specific breeding practices, but advocate for ethical breeding and dog welfare. We encourage exploring adoption first. Countless wonderful dogs, from all breeds, await their forever homes in shelters. Remember, with AdoptDontShop, you can give a deserving rescue a second chance at happiness. General Care of a Dalmadoodle Housing As pack animals, Dalmadoodles flourish when living inside with their humans, and being kept outside and alone too long can be detrimental to their well-being. Crate training inside is always an option if you need to keep your Dalmadoodle confined for short periods. However, if your dog needs to live outside, make sure it has an adequate shelter that is insulated against both hot and cold weather, with plenty of space to move around. This is not a dog for an apartment, but it can do well in a house with a relatively big yard. For instance, a young growing dog has different nutritional needs from an old one. Some dogs also have individual food sensitivities or may need to be on calorie-controlled diets. Plenty of owners find that a natural raw food diet , also known as BARF, is highly beneficial, but if you choose to go this route, make sure you do your research to make sure your Dalmadoodle is getting a well-balanced diet. Grooming Grooming a Dalmadoodle largely depends on what kind of coat your mixed breed inherited. If it inherited the smooth, short coat of the Dalmatian parent, then a quick brush three to four times a week will minimize shedding. This goes well with the occasional bath. For a puppy with a poodle-type coat, daily brushing, frequent clipping, and trimming are needed, which means much more maintenance. A neglected coat could lead to matting and skin problems, so be prepared! Do Dalmadoodles shed? While Poodles are beloved for being minimal shedders, unfortunately, Dalmatians are not. This means the Dalmadoodle can fit anywhere on the shedding spectrum, depending on the genes it got from mum and dad. The Health of a Dalmadoodle Many argue that mixed breeds are generally healthier than purebreds , who may suffer from genetic disorders because of inbreeding. Nevertheless, the Dalmadoodle does come with its share of potential problems. Secondly, deafness runs in many Dalmatian lines, and it can be passed on to your puppy. Other issues to be aware of include urinary stones, bloat, skin allergies, iris sphincter dysplasia, sebaceous adenitis, and gastric dilatation-volvulus. Average lifespan Dalmadoodles usually live years on average. Exercise With both parents coming from a long line of working dogs, your Dalmadoodle may be a high-energy dog. Therefore, it should have a big yard and be walked daily, at a minimum. Their sweet, intelligent natures make them great for a host of fun activities, especially for an owner who likes to lead an active lifestyle. Dog sports such as agility or flyball are great, as are hiking, games of fetch, or fun visits to safe dog parks. Do not leave them alone for long periods without chew toys or something to keep them occupied, as high-energy dogs can become destructive when bored. In short, a Dalmadoodle owner should schedule about 90 minutes a day for exercise. Although poodles are known to be extremely sensitive, so make sure you work gently and reward them often. The stubbornness may mean exercising a little more patience during training and keeping sessions short. They should be extroverted, and while rambunctious when young, they should settle into calm and well-adjusted members of the family so long as their exercise needs are met. A Dalmadoodle should get along well with other pets provided it is socialized from an early age. The Poodle does come from a hunting background; however, so keep an eye out for a high prey drive which may lead it to chase and harass smaller animals. This mixed breed pup should make a good all-around family pet, but since it may be a medium to a large-sized dog with a lot of energy, it should always be supervised with small children or with older people whom it might accidentally knock over when excited. The best home for a Dalmadoodle is one with a reasonably active family with a yard, who have the time to play with, train, and exercise it. How much does a Dalmadoodle cost? Prices on a puppy may vary, with some breeders putting a higher premium on certain coat types or colors. In short, this lovable and unique mixed breed could make an excellent addition to the right family. Did you enjoy reading about it? If you have a Dalmadoodle, please leave a comment below and let us know about your experience with this wonderful breed, or share this article with another Dalmadoodle admirer. Tamsin De La Harpe Author Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs. Lifespan Sociability Many designer breeds look like a perfect mix of their parents. These dogs tend to look like Poodles or like Dalmatians, with little in-between. So, if you have your heart set on the grown-up Dalmatian Poodle mix looking a certain way, this breed may not be for you. Be sure to keep a close eye on your dog when playing during the summer, and be sure to stop if they start to pant too heavily. Dalmadoodles Love Having a Job Both parent breeds were designed to be working animals. Poodles, on the other hand, were created to fetch fallen waterfowl. When you combine the two breeds, you get a dog who loves to be put to work. They can run and play for hours on end and not be any worse for the wear. At the very least, you should live near a big, open park — preferably an off-leash dog park. They can be inspired escape artists, and good luck hiding treats from them. Are These Dogs Good for Families? It may help to divvy up the exercise between multiple family members so no one gets burned out. After all, another dog is about the only thing that can keep up with them. Poodles have a hunting background, though, so many Dalmadoodles have a strong prey drive. This could be a problem if your household includes cats or other small pets. Expect to buy a bag of food a month. That food should be high-quality too. Skip anything with wheat, corn, or animal by-products, and focus on something that provides protein and healthy fruits and vegetables. Be careful not to overfeed them, as hip dysplasia is common in the breed. However, they often tend to be more enthusiastic about praise and playtime than food, so they might not eat to the point of obesity, anyway. Expect to give them at least an hour of vigorous activity every day, but preferably more. Do be careful during the summer months, though. While they enjoy just about any physical activity, they do best when their minds are as stimulated as their bodies. A post shared by SV mazzi. Introduce them to strangers, new situations, and other animals as safely and often as you can. However, we recommend doing at least one or two group classes, as they allow you to both train and socialize your Dalmadoodle at the same time. As far as training methodologies are concerned, these dogs do best with plenty of positive reinforcement. Any attempts to punish them will likely only render them skittish, and they may even start to rebel. This will determine how often you need to groom them. You do need to clean out their ears regularly to avoid infection, though. However, while Dalmadoodles are certainly healthier than Dalmatians, they still have quite a few health problems — more than the average designer breed, in fact. Here are a few things to be concerned about as you raise your Dalmadoodle: Minor Conditions. It is a designer breed with growing popularity. Dalmadoodles are typically short-coated and come in a variety of coat types and colors. They can be white, black, or brown and may have spots or patches on their coat. Dalmadoodle Training The Dalmadoodle is highly intelligent and responds well to training as a mixed-breed dog. Both the Poodle and the Dalmatian are known for their intelligence and willingness to please, so your Dalmadoodle will be a highly trainable companion. They can be stubborn and obstinate at times, so they will need plenty of patience when learning new things. Training is key for a Dalmadoodle to help them stay healthy and happy, and they love learning new tricks. Dalmadoodle Exercise Needs As with all dogs, Dalmadoodles need regular exercise. They should be able to run, play, and walk around for at least 60 minutes per day. A fenced yard is ideal for this breed. If you are thinking of adopting a Dalmadoodle, you should know their exercise needs. These dogs are high-energy , exercise every day, along with plenty of time to play outdoors. They need daily walks, trips to the dog park, and plenty of time off-leash in a safe backyard. They also need to be mentally stimulated with games or toys to keep their inquisitive minds busy. These dogs combine the loyalty and attention to detail of a purebred dalmatian with the intelligence and trainability of a poodle. The Dalmadoodle is a highly intelligent, loyal, and loving dog that will make a great addition to any family. They are very friendly, affectionate, and loyal to their human families. However, they can be protective and may bark at strangers. A Dalmadoodle puppy should be socialized as early as possible, so they can get along with other pets and people. Your vet can recommend a good dog food for your puppy , and be sure to split the recommended amount into two meals each day. High-quality dog food will give your Dalmadoodle all the nutrients it needs to grow. Make sure to feed your pet a diet formulated with balanced proteins and healthy fats. You can also consider making homemade dog food , as it can be a great way to keep your pup happy and healthy. Dalmadoodle Health Issues Like all hybrid canines, Dalmadoodles can be prone to various health problems. A good breeder will health test both their poodle and Dalmatian parents to ensure your puppy has no genetic disorders. It is a good idea to also have your puppy vaccinated and neutered before you bring him home. Dalmadoodles can also suffer from deafness, but they usually have a high chance of recovering from it. This type of deafness is usually caused by ear infections or damage to the external ear canal, but it may also be inherited. Dalmadoodle Lifespan Although Dalmadoodles are prone to the same health issues as their parent breeds, they can live up to 14 years. They have an average lifespan of 11 to 14 years. You can give them the right food and exercise to keep them healthy and increase their lifespan. This is a rough estimate and will vary depending on where you live. Here are some of the most popular Poodle mix breeds: Labradoodle: A cross between a Poodle and a Labrador Retriever, known for their loyalty, friendliness, and intelligence. Goldendoodle: A cross between a Poodle and a Golden Retriever, known for their loving personalities, trainability, and hypoallergenic coat. Cockapoo: A cross between a Poodle and a Cocker Spaniel, known for their affectionate nature, intelligence, and low-shedding coat. Bernedoodle: A cross between a Poodle and a Bernese Mountain Dog, known for their intelligence, loyalty, and adorable teddy bear-like appearance. Sheepadoodle: A cross between a Poodle and an Old English Sheepdog, known for their friendly personality, loyalty, and hypoallergenic coat. Aussiedoodle: A cross between a Poodle and an Australian Shepherd, known for their intelligence, trainability, and energetic nature. Cavapoo: A cross between a Poodle and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, known for their friendly personality, trainability, and low-shedding coat. Yorkipoo: A cross between a Poodle and a Yorkshire Terrier, known for their playful and affectionate personality and hypoallergenic coat. Maltipoo: A cross between a Poodle and a Maltese, known for their gentle and affectionate nature and low-shedding coat. Schnoodle: A cross between a Poodle and a Schnauzer, known for their intelligence, loyalty, and hypoallergenic coat. Whoodle: A cross between a Poodle and a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, known for their friendly personality, trainability, and wavy coat. Boxerdoodle: A cross between a Poodle and a Boxer, known for their loyalty, trainability, and high energy. Pyredoodle: A cross between a Poodle and a Great Pyrenees, known for their loyal and protective nature, intelligence, and hypoallergenic coat. Shih-Poo: A cross between a Poodle and a Shih Tzu , known for their loving personality, trainability, and low-shedding coat. Newfypoo: A cross between a Poodle and a Newfoundland, known for their intelligence, trainability, and enthusiastic nature. These are just a few more examples of popular Poodle mix breeds, and there are many other variations of these hybrids as well. They can be affectionate, playful, and brave, but they also require a lot of time and attention from their owners. They enjoy playing and jogging, so you might want to consider taking them out for a walk a few times a day. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. When it comes to your Dalmadoodle cross, prepare for any number of coat varieties. Remember, because he is a crossbreed, the way your Dalmadoodle looks is going to be left up to chance. Dalmadoodle Curls Dalmadoodles will usually have wavy coats rather than tight curls like Poodles. Dalmadoodles have one from each parent NC which creates a wavy coat. And Dalmadoodles can pass either of these genes to their puppies. Dalmadoodle Grooming and Shedding Grooming your Dalmatian cross Poodle could vary, depending on the type of coat he inherits from his parents. While the Dalmatian has a shorter coat, he requires weekly brushing to reduce shedding and to keep his hair shiny and healthy. Are Dalmadoodles hypoallergenic? The Poodle requires much more upkeep and needs to be brushed several times a week to keep his thick, curly hair from matting. And while there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog, the Poodle does not shed often and produces much less dander than other breeds, reducing the chance of allergies. However, the Dalmatian is quite the shedder, so whether or not your Dalmadoodle will shed will be left up to genetics. Your Dalmadoodle will also need his ears cleaned regularly to avoid ear infection, and his nails trimmed to keep them from cracking or splitting. Dalmatian crossbreeds and poodle crossbreeds are known to be pretty intelligent, so you can expect your Dalmadoodle to be smart as well. Keep in mind that your Dalmadoodle could inherit any number of the temperamental traits listed above, and for this reason, we always recommend early socialization and obedience training. Dalmatian Personality The Dalmatian is a stately purebred with lots of confidence. This dog is famous for its looks as well as its brains. They are very loyal to their family and does well with dogs and children they are is raised with. However, they can be standoffish with strangers and, due to a guarding background, have a tendency to become territorial and protective, although not known to be an aggressive breed. Poodle Personality The Poodle is also best known for high intelligence, wowing their family with an incredible ability to learn tricks. This is a breed who loves showing off and is a natural entertainer. They do very well in family settings and enjoys other dogs. However, they do have a hunting background, so families who own smaller pets should not leave their Poodle in a room with them unsupervised. Dalmadoodle Exercise and Training Needs The Dalmatian x Poodle is going to be an active crossbreed, considering he comes from two very active purebred parents. We recommend giving your Poodle and Dalmatian mix at least an hour or two of exercise per day. This could include a long walk, a nice romp in the yard and a game of fetch. Luckily, the Poodle x Dalmatian is intelligent, and training should be simple. Dalmadoodle Lifespan The Dalmadoodle lifespan could vary depending on what he inherits from his parent breeds. While the Dalmatian has a life span of 11 to 13 years, he is prone to certain health issues, including deafness, skin allergies, urinary stones, obesity, epilepsy, thyroid disease and eye issues. The Poodle has a lifespan of 12 to .You may want to consider early health screening for your Dalmadoodle, as it could help you to prevent or prepare for certain inheritable health issues. Mixing Breeds There is an ongoing debate regarding the health of purebreds and crossbreeds. It is a well-known fact that purebreds suffer from many generational health defects as a result of generations of overbreeding. Those who support crossbreeding are hopeful that the practice could be a solution to these genetic health issues. The debate is ongoing and so are the studies. The Ideal Home for a Poodle and Dalmatian mix The Dalmatian Poodle mix is going to do best in homes with a large fenced-in yard where he can run and play, and in a home with an owner who is able to keep his intelligent mind active. This is a crossbreed who needs lots of stimulation both physically and mentally. If you are able to provide early socialization, the proper training and plenty of activity, then the Dalmadoodle may be the perfect dog for you. One good thing about getting a Dalamatian and Poodle mix puppy from a breeder is that you are able to ask questions about temperament and health issues with previous litters. Also, keep in mind that most repeatable breeders will be able to provide health certificates proving their litters have been health screened. No matter which source you go through to get your Dalmadoodle puppy, remember to go through a reliable and responsible source. Dalmatian x Poodle puppies are beautiful and great fun, and if you go to the right breeder and raise them well you will have a great companion for many years to come. References and Further Reading:. When looking to buy one, it is always better to buy or adopt a puppy than an adult so you can train it to suit your lifestyle and family. The Dalmapoo is available in two sizes; the Standard and Mini Dalmadoodle. The Mini Dalmadoodle is a convenient size for families with less space and small children. As the name indicates, a Dalmadoodle is a cross between a Standard Poodle and a Dalmatian. Dalmadoodles are extremely social and smart dogs that need human companionship, attention, and tons of training. Let us study a bit about the parent dog breeds so we can understand the origins of the Dalmadoodle in depth: Dalmatian The Dalmatian is an athletic dog breed with a spotted coat and mysterious origins; no one knows exactly when they originated. Irrespective of their beginnings, one thing is for sure — the Dalmatian breed is incredibly old and can be traced back to the 16th Century. Dalmatians gained a great deal of popularity thanks to the movie Dalmatians. They also became popular as Firehouse dogs since they coached horses that were used for horse-drawn fire carriages. To date, many firehouses use the Dalmatian as their mascot. Poodles Poodles originated in Germany where they were bred for the purpose of duck hunting. Their water-resistant coats made them perfect for all kinds of water-related jobs including search and rescue. Today, the Poodle is considered one of the smartest and easiest-to-train dog breeds in the world. Poodles also make wonderful pets for allergy sufferers since their coats shed minimally and are hypoallergenic. Origin of the Dalmadoodle There are several benefits of crossbreeding dogs, the major one being that the cross-bred puppies have a lower chance of exhibiting the diseases seen in the parent breed. No one knows for sure when the first Dalmadoodle came into existence, but it may have been around the s as that was when the popularity of Doodle dogs really exploded. Dalmadoodles that are created using a Standard Poodle tend to be some of the largest Doodle dogs. However, there are mini Dalmadoodles too — obtained by crossing Dalmatians with Miniature Poodles. In general, these designer dogs weigh between lb 18 to 30 kg and measure about inches 45 to 50 cm tall. Mini Dalmadoodles can be expected to grow to between 10 to 18kg and measure less than 45cm tall. They are a medium size dog that requires less space in the house and yard than Standard sized Dalmapoo. Both varieties require significant amounts of exercise and are suited to people who live an active lifestyle. The results are unique and extremely attractive. Are Dalmadoodles hypoallergenic? This can cause runny noses and watery eyes in dog owners with pet allergies. This increases your chances of getting a hypoallergenic puppy as the Dalmatian genes are diluted and there is a greater Poodle gene pool. Do Dalmadoodles need grooming? Both the Dalmatian and Poodle have sensitive skin and coats. This means that your Dalmadoodle could also inherit sensitive skin which needs regular grooming. They do not handle weather extremities well and their skin is also susceptible to fungal and bacterial infections. Avoid bathing your dog too much and only use a vet-approved shampoo for sensitive skin to bathe your Dalmadoodle. No two dogs are the same, even within the same breed. However, you can always train your Doodle puppy to adhere to your household rules and expectations. In general, it is safe to say that a Dalmadoodle will inherit a mix of the Poodle and Dalmatian traits. Both parent dog breeds are highly intelligent and trainable so we can expect the same from a Dalmadoodle. As with any dog breed, whether it is purebred or a designer dog, your Dalmadoodle puppy is going to need plenty of socialisation and early training. This is especially important if you do not want your pet to jump on visitors or bark at every passing vehicle. Unfortunately, many Dalmadoodles tend to have a stubborn streak and can also be quite headstrong. These traits can pose a challenge during training. This is also why it is important to set firm boundaries from its puppyhood. Failure to do so could make it difficult to handle as an adult. Be sure to keep all interactions with your pet positive as Dalmadoodles can be overly sensitive. They also have long memories so if you happen to scold your pet for misbehaviour, it will remember it for ages! Keep your training methods positive since negative training will only make your Doodle shy or aggressive. Most Dalmadoodles are social and confident dogs. They are also people-like and people-oriented. This means that your dog will want to participate in everything you do! This also means that your Dalmadoodle will hate being left all alone at home. These dogs tend to suffer from separation anxiety, so it is important to get them used to staying alone right from a young age. Crate training is the single most effective way to reduce the likelihood and stop the common Poodle Mix breed behaviour problem of separation anxiety from developing. As such, no dog should be left home alone for over 8 hours. If you have no choice but to do so, it is best to hire a pet sitter, doggy daycare or a dog walker to come in and check in on your Doodle while also letting it out for potty. Dalmadoodles are very energetic dogs. They are best suited for active owners who have the time to take their pets out at least times a day. Without exercise and mental stimulation, these smart dogs can get extremely bored. Dalmadoodles are highly intuitive dogs that can make excellent watchdogs. They are sensible and alert and will not yap or bark too much unless necessary. If you have young children in the house, remember that Dalmadoodles can be quite exuberant and could knock down small toddlers. You must also train your kids to never poke your Dalmadoodle in the eye or pull on its tail or ears. Both the Dalmadoodle and the children should be taught to respect each other to ensure harmony. Remember that puppies need around 20 hours of sleep each day and adult dogs hours a day. Dalmadoodles usually get along with other house pets including cats. This generally makes them excellent pets for multi-dog households. Finding a reputable breeder can be a hassle since there are not too many and these dogs are still quite rare in the USA and even rarer in Australia. The price of a Doodle puppy will depend on the pedigree of the parent dogs used. If the parents are championship title owners or have very pure bloodlines, then the puppies will cost more. The price also varies based on the Dalmadoodles size. In general, smaller Doodles cost more than larger ones although larger Dalmadoodles will be more expensive to keep. That way you can only use the best ingredients and avoid low-quality ingredients often seen in commercial dog foods. If you opt for feeding commercial dog food, then only select brands containing real meat as the first ingredient. Avoid dog foods with corn, soy, wheat, and other fillers which provide no real nourishment to your pet. Most Dalmadoodles are quite healthy dogs. However, from time to time, diseases like skin allergies, heart ailments, bloat, certain cancers, progressive retinal atrophy, and joint-related problems like dysplasia can be seen in Dalmadoodles. With proper diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary care, your Dalmadoodle can live between years. Subscribe for poodle mix breed information, exclusive offers and access to our community of reputable breeders. Leave this field empty if you're human: Share this.

Typically a Black Poodle is bred with a Black Lab, but since black is a dominant color, sometimes another color of poodle red, chocolate, etc , can still have black puppies. Black Labradoodles have become wildly popular for their sweet, lovable nature, familiar black color, low-shedding and hypoallergenic coat characteristics. Labradoodles come in other colors, such as chocolate, yellow, cream, parti-colors, and occasionally red, but some people love the sweet nature of a Black Labradoodle. Many first generation Black Labradoodles f1 will shed. We recommend getting an F1b Black Labradoodle if you're worried about shedding or have dog allergies. Friendly Black Labradoodles One of the most desirable characteristics of the Black Labradoodle is their deep love of people. A Black Labradoodle is the happiest when they are surrounded by people that they love. They are highly intelligent and trainable, Black Labradoodles enjoy the stimulation of training and are eager to please their loved ones so they pick up on the cues very quickly. Some Black Labradoodle puppies receive many of the Poodle characteristics of being reserved, having a coat that is very fine and needs regular trimming. While other Black Labradoodles receive the excitable and almost immature nature of the Labrador Retrievers. As the Black Labradoodle becomes more common and breeders are crossing them with more consistency the discrepancies are becoming less of an issue and the breed is becoming more consistent. It is important to realize that the AKC does not yet recognize Black Labradoodles as an official breed, though most other registrations recognize them. The AKC actually does not yet recognize any of the doodles. Most families that want a wonderful dog, and are not concerned about show events do not care that the AKC does not officially recognize the Black Labradoodle currently. Black Labradoodle Best Breeders The best way to avoid the inconsistencies of the Black Labradoodle breed is to adopt from a reputable breeder. Avoid puppy mills at all cost and make sure that the breeder you buy from is caring for the health and wellness of your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy from before conception until you take your Black Labradoodle home with you. A Black Labradoodle should have a sleek, black coat with no sprinklings of any other color and have a black nose. Talk to your breeder about silver and blue Labradoodles as they often appear black as puppies. Some people prefer the looks of a silver or blue Labradoodle to a Black Labradoodle. A Blue Labradoodle, for instance, will start out looking like a Black Labradoodle, but as it grows its coat will come in a beautiful "blue" color. Although the color is called "blue" in the dog world it is almost a gun metal gray. Silver Labradoodles are a lighter silver color than a Blue Labradoodle. Finding a healthy black Labradoodle puppy. A lot comes into play when breeders attempt to create a specifically black Labradoodle. That is because both the purebred Labrador retriever and the purebred poodle come in three different color varieties. Genetics are difficult to control, and sometimes it takes a few generations for breeders to get the desired color of a Labradoodle right. Especially when working with a first generation F1 black Labradoodle. Where Do They Come From? The Labradoodle craze is believed to have begun in Australia. Enthusiastic breeders went on a mission to create an intelligent, friendly and responsive service dog that had all the desirable traits of the Poodle and the Lab. Still, because the Labradoodle is a newer generation crossbreed, there is a lot of speculation regarding the majority of his roots. The Labrador is an ancient breed who hails from Newfoundland, Canada. The Standard Poodle is of German descent and is believed to be over years old. Both breeds were used as waterdogs for fishing and duck hunting, and were renowned for their intelligence and retrieving abilities. Defining Characteristics of the Black Labradoodle Just about the only thing you can guarantee about what your black Labradoodle will look like will be his color. This is because he is a crossbreed. For that reason, his coat texture, size, weight and more will be left up to chance. Despite having similar temperamental traits, the poodle and the Labrador are very different looking dogs. Both the Labrador and the poodle come in three color varieties. The Lab, for example, comes in chocolate, black and yellow, while the poodle comes in black, brown and apricot. Both breeds are athletically built water dogs, however. So a prospective black Labradoodle owner can expect this crossbreed to be similarly built, with a long tail, floppy ears, and a sweet, expressive face. How Big Is a Black Labradoodle? An adult Labradoodle size is going to depend on several factors. Because he is a crossbreed, your Labradoodle full grown will vary in size. This will be based not only on which genetic traits he inherits from his purebred parents, but also how big each parent breed is. On average, the black Standard Labradoodle is around 15 to .Black Labradoodle Grooming and General Care While the Poodle is considered to be a hypoallergenic dog who hardly sheds and produces very little allergy-inducing dander in his coat, the Labrador sheds heavier twice a year during shedding season. For this reason, grooming maintenance could vary when it comes to your black Labradoodle mix. They might also shed. On the other hand, if the black Labradoodle has a coat more like his Poodle parent, his fur could be prone to matting and will need brushing a bit more frequently. However, your black Labradoodle will need an occasional bath every few weeks. He will also need his nails trimmed regularly to keep them from breaking and his ears cleaned to keep them from developing infection due to waxy build up. But these are claims based mostly on biased and superstitions, with little to no evidence supporting them. Truth be told, a black Labradoodle is still just a Labradoodle. And he will carry whichever temperamental traits he inherits from his purebred parents. As previously mentioned, the Labrador and the poodle have very similar temperamental traits. They are both family-oriented breeds who do well with children and are incredibly intelligent. However, they are also both highly energetic and athletic. For this reason, a black Labradoodle will more likely than not require a lot of time and patience when it comes to training and exercise. The black Labradoodle is the crossbreed offspring of two very intelligent and active breeds. He could therefore be prone to boredom and becoming destructive if left to his own devices without doggy jobs or activates. For this reason, we recommend early socialization and obedience training beginning in puppyhood. This will help to ensure the black Labradoodle is a well-adjusted and happy dog. Can You Show a Black Labradoodle? The black Labradoodle makes an excellent family pet and service animal when properly trained and socialized. However, he is a newer generation crossbreed and is still not officially recognized by official clubs and organizations, like the American Kennel Club. For those interested in show dogs, purebreds are the best and safest bet. Still, there are purebred standards that dogs used for show require. This means their black Labradoodle offspring is likely going to be similar. A dog with smarts and energy will require a lot of exercise. Anyone considering getting a black Labradoodle crossbreed should prepare to spend an adequate amount of time every day providing this dog with what he needs to be happy and healthy. But what kind of exercise do they require? Daily walks, jogs, hikes and swimming can all serve as excellent exercise outlets. Your black Labradoodle will also enjoy games of fetch, chase, and Frisbee in a large, fenced-in backyard. Keep in mind that the Labradoodle is the crossbreed offspring of two dogs who were bred for hunting. Make sure that you spend plenty of time working on your recall. Now, what about training? The Labrador and the Poodle are both very smart breeds, but with intelligence comes independent thinking. For the most part, the Lab and the Poodle are eager to please and make loyal, hard-working students. So long as the training sessions are kept fun, positive and rewarding for them. This means that your Labradoodle should be simple to train. Health and Lifespan A Labrador Poodle mix is likely to live into their teens. Provided the dog is well treated and that both parents have been fully health tested. February 10, Table of Contents The Labradoodle is next to the Goldendoodle the most well-known type of Doodle dog. A cross of Labrador Retriever and Poodle, he is a large, goofy and always happy dog. While this Doodle mix can come in a variety of colors, the most popular one by far is black. Today we want to look at black Labradoodles in particular. How much can you expect to pay for a black Labradoodle? Are they hypoallergenic? Do they turn grey with age? Origin The black Labradoodle comes — like Labradoodles of all colors — from a pairing of Labrador and Poodle. The Poodle parent is typically a Standard Poodle. Labradors themselves come in three distinct colors: Black, yellow and chocolate. Poodles have a larger color variety: They can be black, apricot, brown, grey, silver, white … and also have irregular patterns, such as in the Phantom Poodle or Parti Poodle. Color genetics can be complicated. The best way to guaranteed get black Labradoodle puppies is to cross a black Labrador and a black Poodle. In such a litter, most of the puppies should be black. Are Black Labradoodles hypoallergenic? If you have spent any time researching Doodle breeds yet, you know that this is not an easily answered question. On the one hand, there is no such thing as a guaranteed hypoallergenic dog. On the other hand, chances are that your Labradoodle will be a lot more hypoallergenic than most other dogs out there. Whether your Labradoodle is black or a different color does not play a big role when it comes to their coat qualities — a black Labradoodle will be as hypoallergenic as a yellow Labradoodle. Training Labradoodles require consistent and positive training in order to turn into well-behaved companions, regardless of their color! As very energetic and outgoing dogs, it is crucial to teach them to be calm and focused in public and have good leash manners. Since these dogs become invisible at night due to their color, it is advisable to walk them on an LED collar in the dark. Coming when called is a very important skill to add to the list, as well as politely sitting and greeting visitors. You should not delay getting started in training your Labradoodle — the early you begin, the faster your dog will learn. Labradoodles are typically very food-driven. Use high-quality treats and food for your Labradoodle , and he will happily learn any trick you want to teach him! Do Black Labradoodles shed? As a Doodle breed, Labradoodles will not shed — or only shed minimally. If you are not a fan of dog hair around the house, a black Labradoodle certainly fits the bill. This is not true! You can either buy some clippers and groom your dog at home or take him to a local groomer. It goes without saying that this will be tied to daily brushing and monthly baths with a good shampoo. Do not let it mat or your dog will suffer from painful skin sores! Here you can find our recommendations for the best brushes for Labradoodles. Do Black Labradoodles turn gray? You might have gotten a black Labradoodle puppy, but within the first year he seems to become more and more grey. This dilute gene can be passed on without being expressed. Dilute puppies often look black when first born and start to lighten during the first year of their life. This might appear as if your black Labradoodle is turning grey — but in fact, he was just a grey Labradoodle all along who looked to be darker as a young puppy. If you have a true genetically black Labradoodle, he might start to get grey and white hair around his muzzle in his older years. Do they get hot in the sun? If you live in a hot climate you should consider keeping your dog in a short coat. Both the Labrador and the Poodle are waterdogs — meaning that your Labradoodle will probably gladly cool off in any kind of pool, puddle, pond or stream he can find. By wetting him down frequently you can prevent him from overheating in the sun. Remember that dogs cannot sweat and panting can only regulate their body temperature so much. Providing shade and cool water is crucial for keeping your black Labradoodle happy and healthy in the sun. How much is a black Labradoodle? Black Labradoodles will cost around the same as brown or cream Labradoodles. Yes — they are not cheap. However, it is really important that you do not price-shop when looking for a puppy! It is impossible to breed and raise healthy, well-mannered puppies with a good temperament for low prices. Labradoodles are prone to inheritable conditions such as hip dysplasia, and you need to make absolutely sure that your breeder tested both parents for potential issues. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.

Prevalence: Common Boxers are stocky, muscular and powerful. Males grow to about 25 inches and weigh from about 65 to 80 pounds 30 to 36 kilograms ; females grow from about 21 to 25 inches and weigh from about 50 to 65 pounds 22 to 30 kilograms. Boxers have regal, distinctly shaped square heads. Their jaw is undershot and the muzzle blunt. They have a broad, deep chest and a relatively short, strong back. Boxer's ears fold over naturally, but traditionally, their ears have been cropped to stand erect. Their tails generally are docked and carried high. Their feet are compact and the toes are arched. The boxer's coat is short and sheds moderately. Some boxers are a rich, fawn color and others are brindle. Their face or mask is usually black, but many have white face markings and white on the chest and paws. Personality: Boxers are intelligent, high-energy, playful dogs that like to stay busy. Their temperament reflects their breeding. They prefer to be in the company of their owners and are loyal pets that will fiercely guard their family and home against strangers. Few boxers bark excessively. If a boxer barks, chances are there is a good reason. Many boxers are vocal, however, and make a growling noise that's really just the dog's way of talking. Living With: The boxer has a high need for companionship and exercise. If these needs are not met, boxers can be destructive if left alone in the house. Boxers are ideal for people who want a canine companion with them most of the time or for larger busy families with homes that are often occupied by someone. They can do well on a country estate or in a city apartment as long as they have the opportunity to romp and expel energy. If you live in an urban area, regular walks are necessary. Boxers are intolerant of hot weather, and care must be taken to prevent them from getting overheated. They also need protection from the cold since they are short-coated. Their coats, however, are very easy to care for and will be shiny and bright as long as they have a good diet, are bathed occasionally, and are given regular rub-downs with a grooming mitt or brushings with a rubber curry. Some boxers drool excessively, and some snort and snore. Like other larger dogs, boxers are not particularly long-lived. Their life expectancy ranges from about seven to 10 years. History: Boxers are descendants of extinct bullenbaiser breeds crossed with mastiff, bulldog and possibly Great Dane and even a terrier. They were developed in Germany in the 19th century, initially as bull baiting dogs and later as butcher's helpers, controlling cattle in slaughterhouses. Some breed historians say boxers are named from the German word boxl, their slaughterhouse designation. Other fanciers contend the name boxer comes from the characteristic way that they use their forepaws to play, sparring much like a human boxer. After the breed rose to become among the most popular in America. Boxers are considered working dogs. They were one of the first breeds employed as a police dog, and they have been used as seeing-eye dogs. But they are also bred to be companion and guard dogs, perhaps best known for being loyal family pets that are especially fond of children. Related Pet Care Articles. 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 Boxer Overview Boxers, large, muscular, square-headed dogs, appear imposing until their mischievous and joyful eyes reveal their true nature. Boxers reach full maturity at three years, boasting intelligence, alertness, and fearlessness, while remaining friendly. Their loyalty to the family is remarkable, though they can be headstrong when faced with harsh training. With minimal grooming needs, Boxers make excellent family companions, as long as they receive ample physical exercise and mental stimulation. Their origin traces back to Germany, and their short, shiny coats are usually fawn or brindle with white markings. Docked tails and cropped ears are common, but many owners now prefer leaving them natural. Boxers are renowned for their love and loyalty, often trying to be lapdogs. Their strength and courage make them suitable for military, police, and search-and-rescue work. Proper care includes indoor living due to their sensitivity to extreme temperatures. Boxer Highlights Here are some of the highlights of the Boxer breed: Affectionate: Boxers are very affectionate dogs and love to be around their people. They are known for their wagging tails and slobbery kisses. Playful: Boxers are also very playful dogs and love to have fun. They are always up for a game of fetch or a good belly rub. Intelligent: Boxers are very intelligent dogs and can be easily trained. They are often used as working dogs, such as therapy dogs and search and rescue dogs. Trainable: Boxers are also very trainable dogs and can be taught a variety of tricks. They are eager to please their owners and love to learn new things. Loyal: Boxers are very loyal dogs and will always protect their family. They are known for their bravery and willingness to stand up to danger. The Bullenbeisser was used as a hunting dog for centuries to hunt bear, wild boar, and deer, tasked with catching and holding the prey until hunters arrived. Over time, Bullenbeissers lost their jobs on estates and began to be used by farmers and butchers to guard and drive cattle. The Boxer we know today was developed in the late 19th century when a Munich man named Georg Alt bred a brindle-colored female Bullenbeisser named Flora with a local dog of unknown origin. Schecken was then bred to an English Bulldog named Tom to produce a dog named Flocki, who became the first Boxer to be entered in the German Stud Book after winning at a Munich show that had a special event for Boxers. One of her pups was a white female named Meta von der Passage, considered to be the mother of the Boxer breed, even though photographs of her show that she bore little resemblance to the modern Boxer. Our great line of sires all trace directly back to this female. She was a substantially built, low to the ground, brindle and white parti-color, lacking in underjaw and exceedingly lippy. As a producing bitch few in any breed can match her record. She consistently whelped puppies of marvelous type and rare quality. Those of her offspring sired by Flock St. Salvator and Wotan dominate all present-day. The breed became known in other parts of Europe in the late s. Around , the first Boxers were imported into the U. Lehman of New York. When Word War I broke out, Boxers were enlisted into the military, serving as messenger dogs, carrying packs and acting as attack and guard dogs. Boxers started becoming popular in the U. Through them, the breed was introduced to more people and soon became a favorite companion animal, show dog, and guard dog. In the early days, there was a lot of controversy within the club about the Boxer standard. In , the club finally approved a new standard. The latest revisions of the standard were in .Today, the Boxer ranks 7th among the breeds and varieties registered by the AKC. Boxer Size The height at the shoulder for males usually ranges from .Females typically stand 21 to .Strangers are met with wariness, but they respond politely to friendly people. They display aggression only in defense of their family and home. Temperament is influenced by factors like heredity, training , and socialization. Boxer puppies with good temperaments are curious, playful, and open to approaching and being held by people. Socialization, early exposure to diverse experiences, people, and places, is crucial to ensure they grow up as well-rounded, friendly dogs. Enrolling them in puppy kindergarten classes and regular interactions with visitors, neighbors, and various environments help develop their social skills. Boxer Health Boxers are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they have certain health conditions to be aware of. Here are some conditions to watch out for, along with precautions: Cancer : Boxers are prone to mast cell tumors, lymphoma, and brain tumors. White Boxers with excessive white markings can get sunburned and may develop skin cancer. Apply sunscreen to their ears, nose, and coat when they go outdoors. This condition can lead to fainting and sudden death. A veterinary cardiologist can diagnose it after detecting a heart murmur. Affected dogs should not be bred. Boxer cardiomyopathy BCM : An inherited condition causing an irregular heartbeat due to an electrical conduction disorder. It can result in weakness, collapse, or sudden death. Detection is challenging, leading to unexpected fatalities. Dogs showing signs of this condition should not be bred. While some dogs show signs of pain and lameness, others may not exhibit discomfort. X-ray screening helps detect hip dysplasia, and affected dogs should not be bred. Hypothyroidism : Caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormone, leading to infertility, obesity, mental dullness, and lack of energy. It can be managed with daily thyroid replacement pills. Corneal Dystrophy : Non-inflammatory eye diseases inherited in Boxers, affecting one or more corneal layers, causing opaque areas in the eyes. A weakened immune system can lead to demodectic mange, resulting in localized or generalized skin issues. Gastric dilatation-volvulus GDV , also called Bloat or Torsion : A life-threatening condition more common in deep-chested dogs like Boxers. Feeding habits and exercise patterns can contribute to GDV. Immediate medical attention is crucial. Allergies : Boxers are prone to both environmental and food-related allergies. Itchy, scaly skin should be examined by a vet. Responsible breeding is essential to reduce the risk of deafness. Boxer Care Boxers are indoor dogs due to their short noses and coats, making them unsuitable for outdoor living. However, they enjoy playing in a fenced yard. Engage them in play or walk them twice daily for at least half an hour to keep their muscles toned and their energy satisfied. Activities like fetch, long walks, or dog sports like agility and flyball are great options. Adequate exercise ensures good behavior—a tired Boxer is a well-behaved Boxer. Training is crucial for Boxers, as their size and strength can inadvertently harm people. Their temperament, being happy and excitable, requires early and consistent training using firm, fair methods with positive reinforcement through praise, play, and food rewards. Be consistent to avoid pushing boundaries. Settle them down before training class with a walk or play session for better focus. Housetraining requires patience; some Boxers are trained by four months, while others take longer. Regular potty breaks and praising them outdoors are essential. Crate training is recommended for their successful training. Boxer Feeding For an ideal Boxer diet , choose high-quality food suited for medium-sized breeds with high energy. Optimize their chances for a long, healthy life by providing proper nutrition. To prevent weight gain, adhere to a regular feeding schedule with two meals per day. Limit treats and avoid leaving food out all day. Consult your vet for personalized recommendations based on factors like weight, energy levels, and overall health. Boxer Coat Color And Grooming Boxers boast a sleek, short coat with tight skin, accentuating their athletic bodies. They come in fawn or brindle colors, occasionally with white markings. Fawn ranges from light tan to mahogany, while brindle displays striking black stripes on a fawn background. White markings should not cover more than one-third of the coat, and excessive white is discouraged due to potential health issues like skin cancer and deafness. They lack the gene for a solid black coat, so black Boxers are not seen. Bathing should be done as needed. Maintaining dental hygiene and nail care are essential. Regularly brushing their teeth prevents periodontal disease, and trimming nails every few weeks keeps their feet in good condition. Starting grooming routines early in puppyhood helps them become accustomed to the process, ensuring positive veterinary exams and handling as adults. Regular grooming also provides an opportunity to check for any potential health issues, such as sores, rashes, or signs of infection, promoting early detection and care. Boxer Children And Other Pets Boxers are fond of kids and make excellent playmates for active older children. However, their rambunctious nature may be too much for toddlers, possibly causing accidental knocks during play. Never leave a dog unsupervised with a child. With proper socialization, Boxers can also get along well with other dogs and cats, particularly if raised together. Boxer Rescue Groups Boxers are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Boxers in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. Many can be found with a quick internet search. Further information: Bullenbeisser Friedrich Robert and his boxer, The Boxer is a hunting mastiff developed in Germany in the late 19th century from the now extinct Bullenbeisser , a dog of English Mastiff descent, and Bulldogs brought in from Great Britain. Its task was to seize the prey and hold it until the hunters arrived. In later years, faster dogs were favored and a smaller Bullenbeisser was bred in Brabant , in northern Belgium. The Brabanter Bullenbeisser is generally accepted as being a direct ancestor of today's Boxer. The club went on to publish the first Boxer breed standard in , a detailed document that has not been changed much since. During World War I , the Boxer was co-opted for military work, acting as a valuable messenger dog, pack carrier, attack dog , and guard dog. Taken home by returning soldiers, the dog was introduced to a wider audience and soon became a favorite as a companion, a show dog, and a guard dog. Boxer early genealogy chart Flocki, the first Boxer German citizen George Alt, a Munich resident, mated a brindle-colored female dog imported from France named Flora with a local dog of unknown ancestry, known simply as "Boxer", resulting in a fawn-and-white male, named Lechner's Box after its owner. This dog was mated with his own dam, Flora, and one of his offspring was a female called Alt's Schecken. George Alt mated Schecken with a Bulldog named Dr. Flocki was the first Boxer to enter the German Stud Book after winning the aforementioned show for St. Bernards in Munich , which was the first event to have a class specific for Boxers. Blanka von Angertor, Flocki's sister, was even more influential when mated with Piccolo von Angertor Lechner's Box grandson to produce the predominantly white particolored female dog Meta von der Passage, which, even bearing little resemblance with the modern Boxer standard early photographs depict her as too long, weak-backed, and down-faced , is considered the mother of the breed. Our great line of sires all trace directly back to this female. She was a substantially built, low to the ground, brindle and white particolor, lacking in underjaw and exceedingly lippy. As a producing female, few in any breed can match her record. She consistently whelped puppies of marvelous type and rare quality. Those of her offspring sired by Flock St. Salvator and Wotan dominate all present-day pedigrees. Combined with Wotan and Mirzl children, they made the Boxer. Breed name[ edit ] The name "Boxer" is supposedly derived from the breed's tendency to play by standing on its hind legs and " boxing " with its front paws. Brace's Pet Owner's Guide to the Boxer, this theory is the least plausible explanation. At that time, the spelling "baxer" equalled "boxer". Both the verb boxen [English "to box, to punch, to jab"] and the noun Boxer were common German words as early as the late 18th century. The term Boxl, also written Buxn or Buchsen in the Bavarian dialect, means "short leather trousers" or "underwear". The very similar-sounding term Boxerl, also from the Bavarian dialect, is an endearing term for Boxer. These dogs were the result from mixes of Bullenbeisser and other similar breeds. Bier beer probably refers to the Biergarten, the typical Munich beer garden, an open-air restaurant where people used to take their dogs along. The nickname "Deutscher Boxer" was derived from Bierboxer and Boxer could also be a corruption of the former or a contraction of the latter. This seems improbable. Any such action would likely result in a badly bitten if not broken leg. On the other hand, a German breeder of 40 years' experience states positively that the Boxer does not use his feet, except to try to extinguish a small flame such as a burning match. But a Boxer does box with his head. He will hit not bite a cat with his muzzle hard enough to knock it out and he will box a ball with his nose. Or perhaps, since the German dictionary translates Boxer as "prize-fighter", the name was bestowed in appreciation of the fighting qualities of the breed rather than its technique. Boxer is also the name of a dog owned by John Peerybingle, the main character in the best-selling book The Cricket on the Hearth by Charles Dickens , which is evidence that "Boxer" was commonly used as a dog name by the early 19th century, before the establishment of the breed by the end of that same century. A brindle Boxer with two white socks Brindle, fawn, and white Boxer puppies See also: Dog health A healthy Boxer puppy Leading health issues to which Boxers are prone include cancers , heart conditions such as aortic stenosis and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy the so-called " Boxer cardiomyopathy " , [35] hypothyroidism , hip dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy and epilepsy; other conditions that may be seen are gastric dilatation volvulus also known as bloat , intestinal problems, and allergies although these may be more related to diet than breed. An emerging health concern among boxers is Boxer Juvenile Kidney Disease JKD , where the kidneys do not develop normally during gestation and leads to chronic renal failure. There is strong evidence to suggest JKD is an inherited condition in boxers with research being undertaken by the University of Ohio to determine the gene mutation, as well as other work separately by the UK Boxer Breeder Council. Mortality due to infection increases significantly with increases in inbreeding. The breed is particularly predisposed to mast cell tumours, a cancer of the immune system. Because of their brachycephalic heads, they do not do well with high heat or humidity, and common sense should prevail when exercising a Boxer in these conditions. See also: Dog food Boxers need plenty of exercise, which means their diet should be high in quality calories. The main source of these calories should be lean animal protein, which include lean chicken, turkey, lamb, and fish. They sometimes appear at dog agility or dog obedience trials and flyball events. These strong and intelligent animals have also been used as service dogs, guide dogs for the blind, therapy dogs, police dogs in K9 units, and occasionally herding cattle or sheep. The versatility of Boxers was recognized early on by the military, which has used them as valuable messenger dogs, pack carriers, and attack and guard dogs in times of war. Notable Boxers[ edit ] Punch and Judy were awarded the Dickin Medal for conspicuous gallantry or devotion to duty while serving in a military conflict. Vocality level 3 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 The Boxer is playful, exuberant, inquisitive, attentive, demonstrative, devoted, and outgoing; this dog is a perfect companion for an active family. Boxers can be stubborn, but are sensitive and responsive to commands. They may be assertive toward strange dogs, but are generally good with other family dogs and pets. Upkeep The Boxer needs daily mental and physical exertion. They likes to run, but their exercise needs can also be met with a good jog or long walk on leash. They do not do well in hot weather. Some snore. The coat needs only occasional brushing to remove dead hair. Health Major concerns: boxer cardiomyopathy, SAS, CHD Minor concerns: gastric torsion, hypothyroidism, corneal erosion, colitis Occasionally seen: brain tumors, degenerative myelopathy Suggested tests: thyroid, hip, cardiac Holter monitoring Life span: 8—10 years Note: Sensitive to heat. White boxers may be deaf. The drug acepromazine can cause severe reactions. History The Boxer derives from two central European breeds of dog that no longer exist: the larger Danziger Bullenbeiser and smaller Brabenter Bullenbeiser. Bullenbeiser means bull-biter, and these dogs were used to chase large game through the forest. This required a strong but agile dog with a broad powerful jaw and a recessed nose. In England, the Bulldog was the favored breed for the sport, whereas in Germany large mastiff-type dogs were used. Around the s, German hunters began a concerted effort to create a new breed, crossing their Bullenbeisers with mastiff-type dogs for size, terriers for tenacity, and, finally, Bulldogs. The result was a tough agile dog with a streamlined body and strong grip. By , an entirely new breed, the Boxer, had been established. Although the exact origin of the name Boxer is obscure, it may have been derived from the German Boxl. The Boxer was one of the first breeds to be employed as a police and military dog in Germany. By , the breed had become established as a general utility dog, family pet, and even show dog. The AKC recognized the breed soon after, but only in the s did the breed begin its steady rise to the top of the popularity charts, eventually peaking as the fourth most popular breed in America. Related Content. Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article.

Golden Retriever History Facts This section obviously includes the history of goldens, but also some facts about the breed today. Golden retrievers are originally from Scotland Tomich, Scotland, to be precise. They are a mix of a Tweed water spaniel and a wavy-coated retriever both extinct now. The first pair of these two dogs were named Nous the retriever and Belle the spaniel. The first litter of goldens was born in .They were originally bred to hunt waterfowl, as Lord Tweedmouth was a hunter and wanted a dog that could retrieve game both on land and in the water. Like all good stories, there is some controversy surrounding the origin of the golden retriever breed. Golden retrievers are part of the sporting group. This includes breeds such as retrievers, spaniels, setters, and others. Golden retrievers are one of six retriever breeds. This also includes Labrador retrievers, Chesapeake Bay retrievers, curly-coated retrievers, flat-coated retrievers, and the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling retrievers. Golden retrievers are the 3rd most popular breed in America. Golden retrievers were recognized by the AKC in .This is 57 years after the first goldens were bred. Golden Retriever Physical Facts This section includes a mix of facts about their physical stature, physical needs, and even some stats about their brains! The breed standard height is inches for males and .The breed standard weight is pounds for males and pounds for females. There is only one type of golden retriever. American, Canadian, English, English Cream, and European golden retrievers are all one breed: golden retriever. The average lifespan is years. Yes, goldens can live much longer lives, but this is the average. There are no white golden retrievers. English Cream Golden Retrievers, which are typically light-colored, are in fact a pale gold color click here to learn more about English Cream Golden Retrievers. There are no black golden retrievers. Golden retrievers have webbed feet. This is one of the physical traits that make them good hunting dogs. Golden retrievers have a double coat. These two coats protect their skin and help regulate their body temperatures. They release heat through their paws, mouth, and nose. Some goldens have black spots on their tongue. These black spots are just pigmented skin cells. Golden retrievers need hours of exercise per day. Their faces turn gray as they age. This usually starts around years old. Golden retrievers have soft mouths. Since they were bred as hunting dogs, they naturally have soft mouths to carry fowl in. This is when they shed the most in preparation for warmer or cooler weather. Related articles:. 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. The Golden is slow to mature and retains the silly, playful personality of a puppy until three to four years of age, which can be both delightful and annoying. Many keep their puppyish traits into old age. Originally bred for the physically demanding job of retrieving ducks and other fowl for hunters, the Golden needs daily exercise : a walk or jog, free time in the yard, a run at the beach or lake Goldens love water , or a game of fetch. And like other intelligent breeds who were bred to work, they need to have a job to do, such as retrieving the paper, waking up family members, or competing in dog sports. A tired Golden is a well-behaved Golden. As well as giving your Golden Retriever physical and mental exercise , you should also be prepared to include him in your family activities. Golden Retriever Highlights Golden Retrievers shed a lot, especially during spring and fall. Brushing their coat daily helps remove loose hair, preventing it from spreading on your clothes and around your home. Living with a Golden means embracing their shedding. Golden Retrievers are active and require minutes of vigorous exercise every day. They enjoy obedience training, agility classes, and other dog activities that provide both physical and mental stimulation. While they are gentle and reliable around children, Golden Retrievers are large and exuberant, which might accidentally knock over small kids. Goldens have hearty appetites and can become overweight if overfed. Manage treats, measure their daily food portions, and feed them regular meals instead of leaving food out all day. Due to their popularity, some breeders prioritize profit over the well-being of the dogs. To ensure a healthy pup, avoid irresponsible breeders, puppy mills, or pet stores. Look for reputable breeders who test their breeding dogs for genetic diseases and focus on good temperaments. Golden Retriever History For many years, there was a legend that Golden Retrievers were descended from Russian sheepdogs bought from a circus. In fact, the breed was developed in Scotland, at the highland estate of Sir Dudley Majoribanks, later known as Lord Tweedmouth. Tweedmouth, like many gentry of his day, bred animals of all kinds, trying to perfect different breeds. He also wanted the dog to be loyal and even-tempered in the home. Tweedmouth kept mostly the yellow puppies to continue his breeding program, and gave others away to friends and relatives. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in .Today, the Golden Retriever is the second most popular breed in the U. Golden Retriever Size Males are 23 to 24 inches tall and weigh 65 to 75 pounds. Females are generally .Golden Retrievers usually reach their full height by one year of age, and their mature weight by two. Golden Retriever Personality A sweet, calm nature is the hallmark of the breed. The Golden was bred to work with people, and is eager to please his owner. Though hard-wired with a good disposition, like all dogs the Golden must be well-raised and well-trained to make the most of his heritage. Socialization helps ensure that your Golden puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia: This is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem or medication to control the pain. Cataracts: As in humans, canine cataracts are characterized by cloudy spots on the eye lens that can grow over time. Cataracts can usually be surgically removed with good results. Early in the disease, dogs become night-blind. As the disease progresses, they lose their daytime vision as well. Many dogs adapt to limited or complete vision loss very well, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis: This heart problem is caused by a narrow connection between the left ventricle out-flow and the aorta. It can cause fainting and even sudden death. Your vet can detect it and prescribe the proper treatment. Osteochondrosis Dissecans OCD : This orthopedic condition, caused by improper growth of cartilage in the joints, usually occurs in the elbows, but it has been seen in the shoulders as well. It causes a painful stiffening of the joint, to the point that the dog is unable to bend his elbow. It can be detected in dogs as early as four to nine months of age. Allergies: Golden Retrievers can be allergic to a variety of substances, ranging from food to pollen. If your Golden is licking his paws or rubbing his face a great deal, have him checked by your vet. The main symptom is excessive bleeding after an injury or surgery. Other symptoms include nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or bleeding in the stomach or intestines. There is no cure, and a blood transfusion from the blood of normal dogs is currently the only treatment. Research is underway for new treatments, including medication. A vet can test your dog for the condition. Dogs with this condition should not be bred. Bloat occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid himself of the excess air in his stomach, and blood flow to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure drops and the dog goes into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die. Suspect bloat if your dog has a distended abdomen, is drooling excessively, and retching without throwing up. He also may be restless, depressed, lethargic, and weak with a rapid heart rate. If you notice these symptoms, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Epilepsy : Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes periodic seizures and convulsions. Your vet will need to know how severe the seizures are and how often they occur to determine what medication to prescribe, if any. Hemangiosarcoma : This is a very dangerous form of cancer that originates in the lining of blood vessels and spleen. It most commonly occurs in middle-age and elderly dogs. Golden Retriever Care Golden Retrievers are built for action and love outdoor romps. If you like to hike or jog, your Golden will be happy to join you. Slacking on the activity, however, could lead to behavior problems. These dogs grow very rapidly between the age of four and seven months, making them susceptible to bone disorders. Normal play on grass is fine, and so are puppy agility classes. Golden Retriever Feeding Recommended daily amount: 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his 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 Golden in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. They do well on a high-quality, low-calorie diet that keeps them from growing too fast. For more on feeding your Golden, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Some coats are wavy, some are straight. The fur feathers on the back of the front legs and underbody, with heavier feathering on the chest, back of the thighs, and tail. Golden Retrievers come in all shades of gold, from light to dark gold. Golden Retrievers shed moderately in the winter and summer, and heavily in the spring and fall. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangling, and once a week is the bare minimum. Your Golden will also need a bath at least once a month, often more frequently, to keep him looking and smelling clean. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Short, neatly trimmed nails keep the feet in good condition. 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 he sees the nail clippers come out. Fold-over ears create a warm, dark environment for bacteria or fungus to grow in, and breeds that have them — such as the Golden — are prone to ear infections. His ears should be checked weekly for redness or a bad odor, which can indicate an infection. Check them every time he gets wet, too. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his 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. 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. He enjoys the companionship of other dogs , and with proper introductions and training, can be trusted with cats, rabbits, and other animals. Golden Retriever Rescue Groups Goldens are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Goldens in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. Golden Retriever Club of America, Inc. 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. They are simultaneously wonderful family pets—thanks to their friendly, tolerant attitude—and capable, intelligent working dogs. These sturdy, medium-sized dogs grow to about 55—75 pounds and typically live to be about 10—12 years old. Outgoing, trustworthy, eager-to-please, and easy-to-train, they are especially popular with families with young children. Goldens often maintain their fun-loving puppy attitudes and signature smile into adulthood. Part of the sporting dog group, golden retrievers are active dogs that require at least an hour of daily exercise. They live up to their name; they love retrieving just about anything thrown for them. This makes them excellent hunting companions and skilled service dogs. They love to eat, run, spend time with their owners, and even participate in obedience and agility events. Their coloring ranges from light golden to cream, and dark golden to golden, and their physique can vary from broad and dense to leaner and more sporty. According to AKC standards,goldens move with a smooth, powerful gait, and the feathery tail is carried, as breed fanciers say, with a "merry action. Thanks to their breeding as hunting and waterfowl-retrieving dogs in the Scottish Highlands,their outer coat is dense and repels water. They also have a thick undercoat. Their coats can vary in texture from wavy to straight. Heavy feathering appears on their chest, the backs of their legs, and tail. Temperament In general, golden retrievers are outgoing, playful, and gentle. They are also friendly, intelligent, and devoted. As they get older, most golden retrievers become docile and calm. Bred to be working retrievers, goldens have a lot of energy and require a lot of activity. They are best suited for owners with an active lifestyle and they thrive in a home where someone is around during the day to spend time with them. They don't do well when left at home on their own; they love their humans too much. Their happy demeanor often draws attention from other people when you are out and about—goldens get along well with strangers and other dogs. While they are not considered good guard dogs—they'd be more likely to show an intruder where the treats are than send the intruder running—golden retrievers are excellent service dogs thanks to their loyalty, intelligence, and stable temperament. They see themselves as part of the family and need to be treated as such. Luckily, goldens are not bothered by noise, commotion, and activity, making them very tolerant of children. Golden retrievers also take a "the more the merrier" approach to having other pets in the home. With proper introductions and training, goldens can be trusted with other dogs, cats, rabbits, and other animals. A golden retriever would do well reigning over a large fenced-in yard , so if you don't have a lot of outdoor space or you live in an apartment, make sure you get your golden outside regularly. A lot," Steen says. Owners should get used to having a fair amount of dog hair on clothing and furniture around the home. They have a thick, water-repellant double coat that sheds moderately in the winter and summer, and heavily in the spring and fall. However, if you brush your golden daily, you can prevent tangling and remove some dead hair before it covers everything in sight. Baths can also help and are recommended about once a month, but make sure the golden is fully dry before brushing begins. Golden retrievers will also need their nails trimmed about once or twice a month. A good indicator of when they need to be trimmed is when you can hear them clicking on the floor. Teeth should also be brushed at least two or three times a week. Ear checks are important as well; goldens have fold-over ears, which create an environment that encourages bacteria and fungus to grow. Look for redness or a bad odor and simply wipe out the outer ear with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to help prevent infections. Exercise is an essential part of a golden retriever's day. At least one hour a day of rigorous activity is necessary, even if that happens over several different outings or play times throughout the day. Goldens can be taken on long runs , bike rides, hikes, and swims. They also enjoy hunting trips, field trials, and other canine sports like agility, obedience, and tracking. A golden that doesn't get enough exercise is likely to exhibit undesirable behaviors like digging and chewing. Mental challenges, such as learning tricks and playing with puzzle toys, are also appealing to goldens, but should never replace physical activity. Take it easy with exercise in a golden retriever's first two years of life, as their growth plates are still forming. Don't go for long, strenuous runs or hikes until the dog is fully grown, and always opt for grass over concrete. Early socialization and puppy training classes are important with golden retrievers. Puppies should be exposed to a wide variety of people, places, and situations to help them become well-adjusted in their young life. When it comes to feeding time , owners need to help golden retrievers manage their intake; they have a tendency to become overweight. Food should be measured out and given twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. Dog treats should be given in moderation. If you're unsure whether your golden retriever is overweight, give him the eye test and the hands-on test. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. If you can't, he likely needs less food and more exercise. Chat with your vet about the best course of action. According to Steen, they are a generally healthy breed, but goldens are at a slightly increased risk of hip dysplasia and cancer when compared to other dogs. Other health conditions, although not particularly common, include elbow dysplasia, cataracts , progressive retinal atrophy —or gradual deterioration of the retina—hypothyroidism, gastric dilatation-volvulus otherwise known as bloat , and allergies. Golden retrievers should also have their ears checked often and teeth brushed regularly for optimum health. History Dudley Marjoribanks, the first Lord of Tweedmouth, developed golden retrievers in the mid-to-late s. Although at one time a rumor indicated that golden retrievers descended from Russian sheep dogs, they were, in fact, bred in the Scottish Highlands. Marjoribanks bred the dogs for more than 50 years to create an ideal gundog—he was an avid hunter of waterfowl. Tweedmouth wanted a dog suited to the rainy climate and rugged terrain of the area, so he crossed his "yellow retriever" with a breed that is now extinct, the Tweed water spaniel. He also wanted the dog to be even-tempered in the home. A golden retriever was first shown at the British dog show in .The Kennel Club in England officially recognized the golden retriever as a distinct breed in .At that time, they were classified as "retriever — yellow or golden. Fun Facts Considered one of the most beloved dog breeds, golden retrievers gained popularity with American families in the s when President Gerald Ford had a golden named Liberty. Tucker Budzyn is currently the most recognized golden retriever on the Internet, with more than 3 million followers across YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook. Golden retrievers are regulars on big and little screens. Golden retrievers love tennis balls. Just ask this 6-year-old golden named Finley , who is the Guinness World Record holder for carrying the most tennis balls in his mouth at a time. He can hold six! Was this page helpful? You may have one and be wondering if there is some information about them that you don't know yet, or maybe you're thinking of getting one. So here are nine important and fun facts you should know about this dog breed. They are great family dogs Golden retrievers rank among the top 3 most popular dogs in the US every year for a reason. They are fiercely loyal and obedient dogs that like to spend time with people they consider as family. Being highly tolerant with children and other family pets including cats! They have a long life span Goldens are the perfect lifetime companion because they boast an astonishing life span as a Golden Retrievers lifespan ranges between years, which means you get to experience its fun-loving and loyal spirit for over a decade. Golden retrievers are excellent hunting companions These fun-loving dogs were first bred in the Scottish estate of Lord Tweedmouth to retrieve fowl for hunters in these parts. They were developed with a superb sense of smell that was more sensitive and useful to their hunting companions than the other breeds being used then. This makes them excellent hunting companions as they are loyal and effective trackers. They are natural athletes The same features that make golden retrievers great hunting companions also make them supreme athletes. Blessed with a broad head, muscular bodies, and powerful necks, they are a strong and energetic breed with the stamina to run for a lengthy period. Golden's love to pursue and catch because they love to and are good at it. Thus, they require constant exercise daily to exert their qualities. They love to swim Although almost all dogs know how to swim, they usually would rather do something else like play catch. But most golden retrievers are especially interested in being in and around water, swimming, or playing water games like water frisbee. Due to their natural athleticism, large webbed toes, and long tails, they are a favorite on the dock jumping circuit, gliding across the water with their tongue out as they do on land. They have a special fur They have specially designed fur, which consists of two layers. The outer layer is waterproof to protect the water from reaching their skin while swimming, and the inner layer functions as a warming blanket. As a golden retriever gets older, its fur gradually gets darker, and you can project the exact color a Golden puppy's fur will be by looking at the color of the tip of the dog's ear. Golden retrievers are cross breed search and rescue dogs They were bred in mid 19th century Scotland as a hunting breed from the now extinct Tweed Water Spaniel and a Yellow flat-coated retriever. They have high pain tolerance, intelligence, and impeccable sense of smell which makes them excellent in search and rescue operations. Hardworking and attentive, they can maintain their focus and let their noses lead the way. They are easy to train Because Golden retrievers are easily trained , they are always picked as the preferred breed to act in tv shows and movies. They enjoy being taught and follow instructions down to the letter. That is why they were the first three dogs to win the AKC obedience championship. They are great service and therapy dogs Due to their intelligence and intense sense of human emotions, they are good choices for therapy or canine assistance. Because they are easy to train, they can learn to help carry out certain activities for people with mental or physical disabilities. This means that owners can use them as hearing dogs, guide dogs, medical alert dogs, and other similar functions, which is why they are so sought after. Golden retrievers have become a mainstay in the average American family since they were brought into North America in the s. They can serve as a great companion, hunting partner, and service aid all at the same time, which makes them extremely versatile. A well-groomed Golden is just a beautiful sight to behold; thus, they require proper care and daily brushing to stay looking healthy. Leave a comment. Post by: Heather M. These dogs are known to be sweet, silly, loyal, lively, loving, and good-looking too. Check out some fun, interesting, and little known Golden Retriever facts! They certainly do love to clown around. Lord Tweedmouth was passionate about waterfowl hunting and wanted to create a breed with superior bird retrieving skills. According to his breeding records, he was seeking a dog that would be loyal, even keel, and well equipped for adverse environments. He started by crossing a Tweed Water Spaniel with a Wavy-Coated Retriever, which resulted in four puppies that had those desired qualities. Golden Retriever Temperament Although personalities may vary from dog to dog, there are qualities commonly associated with Golden Retrievers. They are famous for being friendly, energetic, and playful. They tend to keep their puppy-like natures even as they get older, which can be adorable as well as a bit frustrating for dog parents. They are also people-pleasers who love their humans and like to stick so close by that they are often found underfoot. All of these traits make them wonderful family dogs, but not so great watchdogs. Physical Attributes Golden Retrievers were bred to be sporting dogs, and it shows in their physical appearance. They are a medium to large-sized breed with a solid and athletic build. They also have broad heads, strong necks, and ears that fold over. So, how heavy do Golden Retrievers get? Well, they typically weigh around 55 to 75 pounds and measure between 21 and 24 inches tall. Between their size and energetic nature, these are dogs who do well in larger spaces and need plenty of exercise. As their name suggests, Golden Retrievers have golden or yellow fur that comes in a range of shades. They also have a thick undercoat and a dense, water-repellent outer layer that can be wavy or straight. Typically, they have feathery hair on the back of their front legs and along their chest, back, thighs, and tail. Golden Retriever FAQ The Golden Retriever is a popular and familiar breed, but do you know the answers to these commonly asked questions? Do Golden Retrievers shed? Yes, they sure do! That thick, double-layer coat tends to shed quite a bit, particularly in the spring and fall. If you have a Golden Retriever, you should also invest in a lint brush to keep your clothes free of fur and a sturdy vacuum to clean up that hair. Is it hard to train a Golden Retriever? Like most breeds, training a Golden Retriever takes time and patience. However, they are known to be smart and eager to please, which can help them learn commands and behaviors. They are also likely to respond well to praise and other positive reinforcement tools, like clicker training. How much exercise do they need? Golden Retrievers are energetic dogs who need plenty of exercise to help them stay in shape. An active lifestyle can also help prevent stress, frustration, and boredom, which can result in bad behaviors like chewing up your favorite shoes or damaging the furniture. Your veterinarian can tell you how much exercise is right for your dog, but a good rule of thumb for Golden Retrievers is to get them moving for at least 30 minutes two times a day. That should tire out your four-legged friend. These dogs were bred to fetch birds from the water and tend to enjoy a nice dip in a lake or pool. What should I feed my Golden Retriever? Your veterinarian can offer recommendations and advise you on a healthy feeding schedule. Be careful not to overfeed your Golden Retriever. How long do Golden Retrievers live? On average, Golden Retrievers can live anywhere from years. Some Goldens who have a clean bill of health have even lived well beyond 12 years. Like many dogs, Golden Retrievers like to chew. They also like to hold things in their mouths—remember they were bred to retrieve waterfowl. Chewing is a healthy activity for dogs since it helps clean the teeth and strengthen the jawbone. This can cause choking or obstructions that require surgery. Are they healthy dogs? While Golden Retrievers are generally considered healthy dogs, they are susceptible to a number of conditions, such as: Elbow Dysplasia This is an inherited condition common in larger breeds where the bones that make up the elbow joint develop abnormally. It can be very painful and result in lameness. Like elbow dysplasia, it can cause pain and lameness. Hypothyroidism With this disease, the thyroid gland produces too much of the hormone that helps regulate metabolism. This can lead to weight gain, skin issues, and heart problems. Luckily, it can often be treated with prescription medication. Cataracts Like humans, these dogs can get cataracts as they age, causing a cloudy film to form over the eye. Cataracts typically need surgical correction. Heart Disease Golden Retrievers are prone to heart problems, particularly a disorder called sub-aortic stenosis, which causes a narrowing of the aorta and can lead to sudden death. This makes it especially important to schedule annual check-ups, so your veterinarian can listen for heart murmurs and other signs of this disease. Cancer Skin cancer , bone cancer , and other variations of this disease can be common in Golden Retrievers. Our illness coverage includes cancer, which can be very helpful since treatments like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy can be costly. Allergies Golden Retrievers can be prone to allergies of all kinds, from pollen to foods. If you notice your dog is pawing at their face or sneezing excessively, talk with your vet. Skin Problems These dogs can suffer from common skin disorders , such as parasites, mange, fleas, and dry skin. Regular brushing and periodic baths about once every other month unless they get into something stinky or messy! Ear Infections Those dark, damp folded-over ears are a great place for bacteria to grow. A great rule of thumb is that a healthy Golden will be a happy Golden! Ear Issues. Posted on December 2, by Galen Kauffman Share: There are few dogs in history more famous and easily recognized than the golden retriever. In fact, Golden Retriever facts will reveal to you that this beautiful dog even has aristocratic roots. A flat-coated retriever and Tweed water spaniel were bred to bring about the Golden Retriever. They earned their namesake because they were originally bred for bringing back waterfowl shot by hunters out of the water. Sport hunting in Europe and North America increased interest in the development of gun dogs and Setter, Pointers and Retrievers have specific attributes that make them superb sporting- and gun dogs. It comes from decades ago when there was the need for a gun dog that could plunge fearlessly into the water to retrieve game from the water after being shot down. The breed was originally created by Lord Tweedmouth of Scotland to be his attractive, cheerful hunting companions. It would have been impossible for him to navigate the marshes, bogs, water, and land to retrieve the birds were it not for his energetic, enthusiastic Golden Retriever companion. These working dogs retrieved ducks and waterfowl during hunting trips and would gently pick the birds up without breaking their bones. Tweedmouth got that distinctive long-haired golden look from mixing the Tweedwater Spaniel, a now-extinct breed, with the Flat-Coated Retriever. The Tweed Water Spaniel became extinct but is best known for being involved in the y development of the Golden Retriever breed of dogs. The Flat-Coated Retriever breed is a strong, muscular dog with an intelligent, friendly expression. They come in 3 colors and they have a strong desire to please people. The Flat-Coated Retriever is a distinctive breed, a natural breed with strong hunting abilities. Later in their history, to further diversify the breed from the pack, Newfoundlands, Bloodhounds, Labrador Retrievers, and Red Setters were introduced. This resulted in the Golden Flat-Coat dog. Later on, the dog was named the Golden Retriever. The Golden Retriever has a double coat with a short undercoat below the coat. Both the layers help to insulate the dog against cold, moist weather. The double coat also has a waterproofing effect. Those coats come in two distinct layers, the upper, wiry one keeping water from penetrating the fluffy lower coat. The Golden Retriever has a double coat, meaning there is a topcoat and a bottom coat. The outer coat of the Golden is slightly more coarse than the soft, fuzzy undercoat. Both the layers have an important role to play — protecting the skin from moisture, cold, and heat. Some urban legends say the breed originally came from a pack of Russian sheepdogs in a traveling circus. But it nonetheless makes you think of these pet urban legends. After all, Golden Retrievers love learning new tricks and they are easy dogs to train. People say their antics, their smiling face and the way they train so easily is because they once performed in a Russian circus. There is no truth in this pet urban legend. The breed was made official in when they were registered with the American Kennel Club. To this day Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular show breeds. The American Kennel Club recognized the dog in .To become a recognized breed, a dog must have an interested, active following of admirers and this the Golden Retriever has in abundance. They are large dogs with the males being about 23 to 24 inches tall. The males weigh in at about 65 to 75 pounds. The females can be anything from 21 to 24 inches in height and they can weigh between 55 to 65 pounds. They usually stand somewhere between 1 foot 9 inches tall and two feet, making them great medium-sized dogs. Because nothing is set in stone and a Golden Retriever is totally unique, you can safely class your Golden as a medium to large breed. Some will be a little larger and some smaller, but they are always beautiful strong athletic dogs. Goldens usually have a 10 to year life span, making them great family dogs. So while the Golden typically lives between 10 and 12 years of age, with good nutrition, good exercise, and a wonderful lifestyle for your pet, he can push through to 17 years of age and even older. The females are typically smaller than the males, only measuring up to about .You can always pretty much rely on the standard, but there are always variations. Each one is different in a few subtle ways. One thing is certain, they are all purebreds and they all fall under the one Golden Retriever breed. The Canadian Golden Retriever looks just a bit different from the other two in that his coat is darker and shorter and not quite as thick as the other two. The shorter hair also means less feathering on the neck, tail, and legs. The British or English golden retriever is more solidly built than the Canadian and American retrievers. English goldens also tend to be just a bit smaller than the other two varieties. American Goldens tend to have thin, dark coats and are usually the thinnest of the three. The American Golden Retriever is the most popular of the three. Its coat is darker in color than the other two varieties and it is generally taller and slightly more slender. Canadian Goldens usually have darker coats and can sometimes be the tallest of the three options. The darker coats can lean towards being a dark reddish color, almost like a Red Setter. British Goldens tend to be the lightest in color and are usually stocky and muscular. English Golden Retrievers are characterized by their muscular, stocky builds. The entire head and neck area are bigger. Their coats can be very light or golden. All three types of Goldens share the same head shape, with a broad, straight muzzle that comes to a well-defined stop. In fact, while the three types of Golden Retriever differ slightly, all three are famous for their beautiful coats, the broad head, the well-spaced eyes, and straight, bluntish muzzle. Generally, dogs with sharper pointed faces and wolf-like features tend to live way longer than their flat-faced cousins. Dogs with longer, more pointed faces live longer than broader-faced dogs such as the Golden Retriever. The coat of the Golden is dense and water repellent complete with an undercoat. The coat creates a waterproof jacket for the dog. They should never be shaved or have their coats cut very short unless needed for a medical reason. That coat is long and fluffy for good reason! The long coat protects the Golden from the heat and the cold and it should never ever be cut except for medical reasons as suggested. Its beautiful coat serves a purpose. You can always pick out a Golden Retriever with his long golden locks. Despite their name, Goldens actually range in shades. Some are a much darker, richer gold color, almost orange even, while others are much duller and muter yellow cream color. Golden Retriever colors are quite varied in the golden color range. You can see shades that are milky, some creamy, some gold, and some red. Not all the colors are recognized as a standard color by the American Kennel Club. The official colors are golden, lightly golden, and dark golden. Even though they are immensely popular, a white Golden is frowned upon by the British and American kennel clubs. You can usually get a pretty good indication of what shade your puppy is going to end up being by checking their ears. Goldens tend to have their coats get darker as they age, usually getting their true color by about a year old. Golden Retrievers promise to stay beautiful forever but their fur does get darker as they grow older. At about a year old, a Golden is considered full-grown. A Golden Retriever may well have reached his full size by one year of age, but mentally they only reach maturity at about 18 months of age. It comes about because of a breakdown of an enzyme known as tyrosinase, which produces pigment. This Tyrosinase is seen in order dog breeds too, one of which is the Husky. As sporting dogs, these Goldens are going to need plenty of exercise. As active members of the sporting group, they are always ready for action and are natural athletes. They are used for everything from hunting and tracking to rescue. Goldens are known for their kind, friendly, and confident demeanor, a selling point for their breed. Goldens are super easy to train. They love pleasing their masters, taking instructions, and learning new things. They are capable of learning voice instructions but can understand hand gestures too. So long as everyone in the family uses the same words and gestures so as not to confuse him. Golden Retrievers are immensely charming in the way they carry their puppyhood behavior well into their adult years. Golden retrievers are great family dogs, fantastic with babies and kids, and get along great with other pets in the house. No wonder they make such superb therapy dogs. Golden retrievers were trained to retrieve and hold onto wild birds and this is why they instinctively love to hold toys or your shoes in their mouth. Goldens love to carry stuff around as they were selectively bred to retrieve birds. Socialized Goldens are always good off-leash but it is best to be cautious when outside your property and have him on a leash. Because of how high-energy the breed is, Golden Retrievers make great playmates for other dogs. They make great playmates for other dogs and for kids. They fit well into active families. Goldens need, at a minimum, 30 minutes of playtime per day to live their healthiest and happiest. You should probably plan for more! An energetic, sporty breed like the Golden Retriever must get 30 minutes of playtime every day to be at their most content. Leaving a Golden outside for long periods of time often can lead to major skins problems and environmental allergies. Atopic dermatitis can affect some Goldens and things such as dust and grasses can cause your Golden to develop inflammation. Keep an eye out for scratching and lesions. Goldens are incredibly social animals that need to be social with other pups as much as possible for them to live their best, happiest lives. Due to their innate sense of loyalty, Goldens will likely want to be with you at all times. So yes, Golden Retrievers do get jealous. The social Golden Retriever loves his human family so much he feels disconnected, depressed, and lonely when separated from them and he will even suffer from separation anxiety. A great way to give your pup some relief from separation anxiety is to give them a piece of clothing with your scent on it. Because your Golden Retriever is such a people-loving dog, it is far better for him to have a pet sitter stay with him to keep him company. Maybe consider looking into a doggy daycare if nobody you know is free to hang out with your dog. With doggy daycare, your dog will have other doggy friends to keep him company. This is important as dogs are social, pack animals. Also, with doggy daycare, he will be exercised. Your Golden might be used to having food in his bowl throughout the day and also from getting treats from you. Having food available to him throughout the day can cause him to eat from sheer boredom. Speak to your vet about how to feed your Golden so that he stays the muscular, lean dog he was designed to be. Your vet can recommend the right kind of food for your Golden and the right food portions. Golden Retrievers can sometimes suffer from hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, skin conditions, and various eye diseases. From 3 to 6 months, they have rapid growth which will slow down by the time your puppy reaches 6 months of age. The whole idea of this slow-grown plan is to ensure a slow rate of growth for puppies between the ages of 0 to 4 months. The slow growth rate allows the healthiest possible development of bones and joints. Rather, give the coat a good brush 2 or 3 times a week. Dogs with folded over ears, like Goldens, are extra susceptible to ear infections. Make sure to keep an eye out and keep those ears as clean as possible. Floppy-eared dogs like Golden Retrievers and Basset Hounds do tend to have more ear infections than those dogs with upright ears. They are often water-loving dogs and the moisture trapped in the ears results in the growth of bacteria. A Golden Retriever Club of America study showed that 61 percent of Goldens die from some form of cancer, a worrying trend. Make sure you take your pup to the vet often. It is thought that Goldens have this high probability for cancer as environmental toxins may concentrate on the nails of the dog. Tests are still undergoing to prove this, but if you suspect your beloved Golden is ill, get him to the vet immediately. Both will cause serious health issues. Chocolate certainly is toxic to dogs along with other human foods. Make sure you do research on this. Make sure you keep grapes and raisins away from your pup. Both can cause liver and renal failure. As a health threat to your beautiful pup, their toxicity can cause your puppy to develop acute kidney injury with anuria which is a lack of urine production. If they eat too much, they can suffer from anemia. Even onion rings from the takeaway joint are highly toxic for your canine friend. There are a few symptoms to look out for — weakness, decreased appetite, pale gums, vomiting, and elevated heart rate. Avos are delicious for us but for your pet, the persin can cause serious health problems and even death. Veterinarians tell us that dogs are particularly resistant to persin than other animals. They tend to shatter and can do some serious internal damage to their guts. Bits of bone can even lodge in the esophagus, and in the gut causing internal bleeding as they pierce the organs. When dogs are overheated or stressed they do breather heavier than normal to cool themselves. Golden Retrievers are at their most active super early in the morning because of their history of waking up early to hunt. In fact, all dogs dream, causing them to twitch and paddle intermittently. Golden Retrievers, like most other dog breeds, have a faster heart rate than smaller breeds. The average is somewhere between 60 to beats per minute. So there is no cause for alarm as a larger dog breed does have this faster heart rate. If there is any cause for concern, get your Golden to the vet. Your Golden has around taste buds, way less than the average human with ! Dogs also have taste buds in the back of their throat, so that food that they gulp down they can actually taste! Goldens usually have around puppies at a time, giving you a massive litter of pups! Some Goldens can even have .This is because of the many scent receptors they have. For each scent receptor we have, a dog has about .Contrary to popular myths, your Golden can see color! They do it to keep themselves warm and protect the belly. Believe it or not, dogs actually have three separate eyelids. Dog experts say that dogs have floating shoulders giving them speed and agility. Just like snowflakes, no two dogs have the same two noseprints. Just like us humans have different fingerprints, dog noses each have their own unique pattern of ridges. Goldens are a quick, athletic breed that can reach up to 30 mph on average. Goldens are the go-to choice for therapy, search and guide dogs all over the world. According to the American Kennel Club, the Golden retriever is the 3rd most popular breed. Of course, and for good reason, as they are friendly, loving, playful, energetic, and utterly companionable. Despite being a relatively large breed, Goldens are great dogs for apartments or semi-small living spaces. While they can live in apartments, you will have to give more attention to their physical and mental needs, taking them out regularly for exercise. Goldens can be trained to detect epileptic seizures up to a full hour before they actually happen. It makes them invaluable for people who suffer from them. Being naturally sensitive, gentle, and attentive, they offer emotional support for anyone with a disability or suffering from depression. Ancient Egyptians loved their dogs so much that they would shave their eyebrows, smear mud in their hair, and publicly mourn when they died. Dogs were kept in Ancient Egyptian homes and apart from being terribly sad when their pets died, they would sometimes even mummify their pets and insist on them being buried with their pets. He also wants to mark his territory and while urinating, in this vulnerable position he wants to send out a warning. Supposedly, the best dog for attracting a date is the Golden Retriever while the worst is the Pit Bull. Anyone though should check out the way a person treats a dog, as they will likely treat their date like that too. Goldens are a popular choice for movies because of how trainable they are. Add in intelligence and you have the perfect canine film star. Goldens are a popular pick among celebrities and politicians, including both President Reagan and President Ford. These people are all achievers in one way or the other, and they appreciate an intelligent dog that adapts well to situations and the people they are with. They are people pleasers and will drool over strangers, but their own human family gets the most kisses and loving nudges to show their adoration. They have a low tendency to snore. Yes, all dogs snore at some time but some are heavier snorers. If yours is, rather clear it with the vet as sometimes a health issue could be causing his snoring. They have a medium tendency to bark, but will often get very excited and bark at their owners to play. If he does dig, it could be out of boredom or anxiety, and then there are things you can do. Before you buy a Golden Retriever, understand their need for attention and activity. Goldens have been as high as the second most popular dogs on the AKC charts in .Studies suggest that Goldens are the sixth least likely breed in terms of aggression. They can be trusted not to bite. Goldens have webbed toes to help them swim better. These are water dogs and this helps them swim better. Because of their thick coats, Goldens are known to shed a lot. They shed throughout the year and that is why it is important as an owner of a heavy shedding dog, to ensure you have the proper grooming tools and to brush his shedding coat three times a week to remove loose hair. Goldens respond best when positive reinforcement is incorporated into training. Golden Retrievers want to please their human owners and they want to learn. It is why they respond so well to positive reinforcement training techniques. The intelligent Golden Retriever quickly learns that good tasty treats come to them when they please their owners. Owning your Golden can make you happier and help you live longer That makes perfect sense, because, in a world of fickle human beings, the constant love and loyalty from a Golden Retriever is like therapy to people who are finding it difficult to trust human beings for true companionship. Their wonderful, gentle, happy-go-lucky natures make them sought-after therapy dogs. What makes Golden Retrievers so special? Where most dog breeds have one or two exceptional qualities the Golden Retriever has many. How smart is a Golden Retriever? The Golden Retriever is ranked smarter than most other dogs and comes in as the 4th most intelligent dog there is, easily managing to learn more than commands. What do Golden Retrievers like to do? Do Golden Retrievers bite? Highly unlikely, if ever. If they are feeling sick or feeling threatened they may nip someone. What do golden retrievers eat? Avoid most human foods. If in any doubt, speak to your vet. Why are Goldens so mouthy? They were bred to retrieve soft birds that their owners had shot. Their soft mouths are able to hold things without the teeth putting any pressure on what it is they have in their mouth. Conclusion The Golden Retriever is one of the most loved dogs breeds of all time. To appreciate them as they are, these facts about these Golden Beauties will inspire you to investigate buying a puppy. Always make sure to choose the most reputable Golden Labrador Retrievers to benefit from all these amazing qualities. My Golden Retriever Puppies are breeders who are a minefield of information on Golden Retriever puppy facts. Are you in need of a sincere friend today? There is no doubt that an exquisite, friendly, loving Golden Retriever puppy is going to improve your quality of life.

July 19, 1 German shepherds are probably one of the most recognized and loved dog breed in the world. They are very loyal and make perfect best furry friends. These dogs are also one of the more intelligent dog breeds, making them excellent choices for both family pets and working dogs. All of these reasons, German shepherds are one of the most popular breeds. They have a very loyal following, and pure German shepherd are highly coveted. Some owners love their pets so much that they choose to get German shepherd tattoos in honor of their beloved best friend. Like people, German shepherds are individuals, with their own personalities and physical features. Because of this, each German shepherd tattoo is unique. German shepherd lovers usually take a picture of their beloved friend to a tattoo artist, who will come up with a completely original German shepherd tattoos. Black and White German Shepherd Tattoo German shepherd portrait tattoos can capture the soul and personality traits of these beautiful animals. Realistic German Shepherd Tattoo Realistic detail in a German shepherd tattoo makes the artwork simply breathtaking! Image Source 4. German Shepherd Chest Tattoo The chest, particularly on on of the pectoral muscles, is also a great place to put German shepherd tattoos. Image Source 5. Cartoon German Shepherd Tattoo Honor a fun loving dog with a fun and colorful cartoon German shepherd tattoo! German Shepherd Tattoo From a Photo A perfect example of a realistic and detailed German shepherd tattoo from a photo. Patriotic German Shepherd Tattoo An American flag makes a fantastic background for this patriotic German shepherd tattoo! Image Source .Dream Catcher German Shepherd Tattoo Incorporating other elements into German shepherd tattoos, as with this dream catcher tattoo, s a great way to add a little extra meaning and symbolism. Hopefully, these German shepherd tattoos have given you some inspiration to come up with your own German shepherd tattoo design! With crisp lines and bold detailing, these vector graphics are ideal for use in signage, posters, advertising materials, and more. Types of German Shepherd Tattoo Vector Images Available Our collection of German Shepherd Tattoo Vector images includes a variety of designs, ranging from realistic depictions of the breed to stylized versions that incorporate intricate patterns and designs. In addition to static images, we offer a variety of vector graphics that can be resized and adapted to fit a range of projects. These graphics include silhouettes of German Shepherds in various poses, as well as stylized illustrations that make an eye-catching addition to any design. These graphics can be used in everything from social media graphics to company logos and website designs. They are perfect for use in advertising materials, such as flyers and posters, as well as on product packaging and merchandise. If you are looking to add a unique touch to a project, consider incorporating a German Shepherd Tattoo Vector image as part of the design. Whether you're looking to create a cohesive brand identity or simply add a bit of visual interest to a design, these images are an excellent choice. If you're looking for a bold and eye-catching design, opt for a stylized illustration or a graphic featuring bright, bold colors. If you prefer a more realistic depiction of the breed, choose an image that captures all the details of a German Shepherd's distinctive features, such as the pointed ears and alert expression. It's also important to consider the context in which the image will be used. If the image will be printed on a small product label or business card, for example, you may want to choose a simpler illustration with fewer details. A more complex graphic may be better suited for larger-format designs, such as billboards or trade show displays. Get Started with German Shepherd Tattoo Vector Images Today Adding a German Shepherd Tattoo Vector image to your design project is a simple and effective way to create a standout visual element that captures attention and leaves a lasting impression. Browse our collection of high-quality graphics to find the perfect image for your needs, and get started creating today. With our wide selection of images and formats available, you're sure to find the perfect German Shepherd Tattoo Vector image to take your design project to the next level.

While this may discourage pulling, it may put pressure on joints or change the way they move, which are unsafe. A good harness should allow for free movement of the shoulders and elbows. All the harnesses recommended in this article are designed so that shoulders and elbows are not restricted. The design allows for the neck and girth straps to be adjusted for a nice fit. If your dog does pull while wearing the Urban Trail harness, the pressure will be on their chest and not on the neck. It includes four points of connection for the leash, which is unique. It has the traditional back clip, and a front clip, which can help with minimizing pulling. It also has a clip on the left and right, which can be used if you bike or jog with your dog as it keeps the harness from getting twisted to one side. It comes in six colors and has a reflective strip along the neck for safety and visibility at night. Front Range Harness by Ruffwear This is a really versatile harness — great for everyday walks, but durable for more active outings. It offers four points of adjustment so you can get a proper fit for your Golden Retriever. It also has two points of connection for the leash: one at the back of the shoulders, and one in front of the chest for dogs that pull. This harness has a couple of cool safety features as well. Reflective trim helps keep your dog visible and there is a small loop where you can attach a light. It also comes in a whopping 16 different colors! Weekend Warrior Harness by Hurtta This harness is made for dogs who enjoy going on adventures with their humans. The neck and girth straps are both adjustable so you can ensure it fits your Golden well. The interior is lined with a breathable mesh, to help your pup stay cool. The straps are padded and comfortable but still offer a non-restrictive fit so your Golden can move freely. This is one of the best harnesses for a Golden Retriever who lives for outdoor activities. The design incorporates a handle, which can be a convenient way to help your dog up a steep bank or to pull them back into the canoe if they decide to go for a swim out on the lake. The handle can also be helpful if you need to get control of your Golden quickly. Additionally, it can be a really nice feature for older Golden Retrievers who may need some extra assistance while out and about or even just around the house. It has one connection point for the leash at the back of the shoulders. The 3 in 1 Harness offers 5 points of adjustment for a highly customizable fit. Additionally, it has 2 points of connection for the leash: one at the back of the shoulders, and one at the front of the chest, which can help discourage pulling. A cool feature on the 3 in 1 Harness is a handle on top of the shoulders. It helps you get quick control of your Golden Retriever in the event of sudden onset case of squirrel brain or extreme wiggle butt. You can get the 3 in 1 Harness from Chewy here. This is particularly great for Goldens that are sensitive to things being slipped over their head. With this design, you can attach the harness from under their head. Easy on and off! Additionally, the Balance Harness offers two points of connection for the leash: a front clip at the chest, and a back clip at the shoulders. This can make it useful in training your dog to not pull on the leash. This harness is very lightweight and will not be bulky or hot on your dog. There are several options available for ensuring your dog is safe and under control when walking, including a regular flat buckle collar or a harness. A harness offers some benefits that may be helpful to you and your pup that may be better than just a collar. Squirrel brain is real! When they pull on a collar, that puts a lot of pressure on their neck, which can even cause damage to the internal structure of it. A harness eliminates that risk, as the pressure is lower on the chest. A front-clip harness can discourage pulling. For many dogs, this can really help them learn to walk with a loose leash. Some dogs will still need additional training for leash walking, but the harness can aid in the learning process. A harness can make outdoor adventures easier. Some harnesses come with handles, which can come in handy if you and your pup are adventurous types. If your Golden needs some assistance navigating a rocky stretch on your hike, a harness can make helping your pup out easier and safer than just a collar. If your Golden Retriever enjoys jumping off a dock to swim, the harness gives you a way to help him back ashore. So how do you that? Most golden retriever harness manufacturers have a chart with recommended sizes based on weight, neck size, and chest size also called girth. If you use a string, just measure your dog with it, then use a ruler or tape measure to see how long the string is. And when measuring their chest, measure the widest part of their rib cage, which is just behind their elbows. Rather than simply slapping the harness on them and heading out for a walk, spend a little time getting them used to it using positive reinforcement training. This excellent video by trainer Chirag Patel shows how you can build a positive association with the harness and get your dog to cooperate with putting it on. With some patience and good treats , your dog will be happy to put the harness on while holding still. The harness will also become associated with going outside on walks, so that will build positive feelings about the harness, too. Ultimately, a harness is a tool to help you and your dog enjoy life together with more ease and comfort. So whether your pup likes leisurely neighborhood strolls, or they love long, adventurous hikes, a non-restrictive harness can be a great option for your Golden Retriever. Have any questions about which harness to get for your Golden? Let me know down in the comments! Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! Related articles:. The Golden Retriever, a happy-go-lucky breed known for its lustrous namesake golden coat, is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. These kind, intelligent dogs are known for being obedient and loyal companions. Because Goldens are so easy to train, they are very popular for service dogs and search and rescue work. Golden Retrievers make great family dogs because of their loving nature and trustworthiness. They are also active companions. Like other retrievers, Goldens are a sporting breed, originally bred to be an ideal gundog. They were first created in the Scottish Highlands during the mid-to-late 19th century by a man known as Lord Tweedmouth. He was looking for a strong swimmer capable of retrieving wildfowl that had been shot. This is why most Goldens love to swim, play fetch, and spend time outside with their families. Golden Retrievers are a medium breed. According to the AKC, the breed standard for Goldens is their height is between 23 and 24 inches for males and between .Males generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds, and females between 55 and 65 pounds. Of course, some Goldens will be larger or smaller than the breed standard. Energy Level and Exercise Requirements Golden Retrievers are a moderate-to-high-energy breed with a zest for life. Because of their history as working dogs, Goldens need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. In addition to frequent walks daily, Golden Retrievers should also get plenty of exercise like swimming and playing fetch. Goldens really enjoy spending time with their people and walks, jobs, and hiking are all great ways to spend active time with your pup. Because they can have a lot of energy, especially when young, most Golden Retriever owners find it best to take their dog out on a harness. Because of their history as working dogs with a sturdy build, Golden Retrievers are a strong breed that requires proper training with the right tools. For most Golden owners, the best and safest way to walk their dog is with a harness. Harnesses are a great way to retain control of your dog while training. What is the Best Golden Retriever Harness? For an active and energetic breed, the best Golden Retriever harness is one that is comfortable for both you and your pooch. Goldens can have a lot of coat, so you want a fully adjustable harness that will give you a proper fit, making the harness escape-proof. You always want to look for a harness that will help prevent your active Golden from pulling. This will help keep you and your pup safe while out and about. At Joyride Harness, we created our harness with Golden Retrievers and other active breeds in mind. Our harness has a specific three-ring design to stop your dog from pulling. Most customers attach a standard leash to one of the side rings to stop their Golden Retriever from pulling forward. For really heavy pullers, you can also attach a double-ended leash to two rings, giving you additional control. The other benefit of Joyride Harness for hyper Goldens is our built-in handle. Handled dog harnesses are great for Golden Retrievers because it gives you the option to quickly grab your dog, even if you accidentally drop the leash! And the best part? If you have trouble keeping your Golden out of trouble, our heavy-duty harnesses are durable and easy to wash! They easily stand up to water, mud, and whatever kind of mischief your pup gets into. Most adult Golden Retrievers will fit in our XL dog harness, which is suitable for dogs between 60 and 85 pounds. Most customers choose this size as the best dog harness for their male Goldens. However, smaller females may find the Large to be a better fit, which fits dogs pounds. For Golden Retriever puppies still growing, you can utilize our size chart to find the best harness to fit them at their current size. Here are reviews from real pet parents who think Joyride Harness is the best dog harness for their Golden Retrievers! My Golden Retriever, Riley and I love using the harness. The golden was running very fast, rolling around in the grass and when he came back to the owner, there was no wear and tear on it. Our golden, Brady, is still in training and needs to be corrected. The top handle has been great while doing this and also makes it really easy when putting the harness on and off. This harness has made it much easier to train and get ready for walks. It is so simple to put on our dog Snowflake and adjusting the harness is so easy. She is quite the puller, and although we have not put in serious training time with the side rings, from the few instances that I did use them she pulled herself right in a circle. This is exactly as advertised. Snowflake is a very willful Golden Retriever and we have tried countless harnesses that never lived up to expectations. I wholeheartedly recommend this harness to any dog owner regardless of breed or attitude. The item shipped out within a day and was at our front door within three days from the order date. If you are looking for a dazzlingly simple harness that is well built and looks fancy on your pet then look no further. Easy slip on and snap off. Recommend getting the seat belt strap and use it with the harness at all times! Awesome again! This is our 3rd joyride harness for my little golden guy. January 25, The Best Dog Harnesses for Golden Retrievers in If we had to make a list of dogs that come to mind when we think of iconic family dogs, golden retrievers would definitely be among the top. This classic gentle breed with its blonde fur and triangular flopped ears is one of the most popular in America. They are known to be loyal, trustworthy, easy to train, and eager to please. Combine this with the fact that they are known to retain their puppy-like qualities well into adulthood, they make amazing companions for all types. Purposefully Designed Because golden retrievers make such wonderful family pets, it might be surprising to find out that the breed was originally carefully crafted to ideal hunting gundogs. He wanted a dog who could withstand the rugged and rainy Scottish Highlands and accompany him on hunting trips around his estate. The lines of goldens grew consistent and refined, and in they first made their grand appearance at a British dog show. Through Canada, the Golden made its way into America and people fell in love. Hunters loved how useful the dogs were, and families loved that they were sweet and sensible. In the s, the breed made the big time. President Ford had a beautiful golden retriever named Liberty, and more and more people wanted one. The rest is history! While we love happy, excited dogs, a fur baby with a lot of energy and nowhere to put it can turn destructive jumping, chewing, and so on. One great way to help your pup focus and burn some of that energy is through regular walks! It lets your fur baby smell all of the fun things outside, creates great bonding time, and gets in some steps for you, too! And coming in between 55 to 75 pounds, they could put a good amount of force into a sudden pull or run. Joyride Harness is the choice for pet parents of excitable dogs because of the superior control it offers. The durable vest is fitted with a super-secure leash attachment point on the top for times when your fur baby is just a little too overzealous. Additionally there is a side ring for times when pulling is an issue. Attaching your leash at this ring point causes your pup to spin to face you should they try to suddenly forge ahead. With breathable fabric that allows for full range of motion without painful rubbing, Joyride Harness is secure, safe, and comfortable. Here are just a few of what the Golden lovers had to say! Andrew A. It is so simple to put on our dog Snowflake and adjusting the harness is so easy. She is quite the puller, and although we have not put in serious training time with the side rings, from the few instances that I did use them she pulled herself right in a circle. This is exactly as advertised. Snowflake is a very willful Golden Retriever and we have tried countless harnesses that never lived up to expectations. I wholeheartedly recommend this harness to any dog owner regardless of breed or attitude. The item shipped out within a day and was at our front door within three days from the order date. If you are looking for a dazzlingly simple harness that is well built and looks fancy on your pet then look no further. We have two golden retrievers that weigh between pounds and they let us put this one on them easily - no struggle at all. Harness is sturdy and I really like the three rings option. Also, seems very comfy for our fellas. Customer service was great - email notifications of order, shipment and delivery. Our daughters jog with him using it, which makes running much easier. Walking in town and on side walks has never been easier! He tugs and pulls me down at times. This Joyride harness is the best, least stressful harness we have gotten. Not expensive which is helpful since we have bought so many other brands. Great, great product! Both of them are slight pullers when taking walks, but with these harnesses they are so much more pleasant to walk! No more pulling! I also love how easy they are to get off and on them! I love these harnesses! And with a great dog harness you can have the best experience possible with this iconic member of the family! While you can search by breed, it is always recommended to weigh and measure your dog to find their exact size. To take a look at our sizing chart, go here! If you have any questions about our dog harnesses, how to put them on, or anything else, you can reach our team through the contact form on our website. To take a look at more reviews and everything our customers have to say check out this page! For more doggie photos and pup-related fun, follow us on Instagram at joyrideharness. And for a more detailed blog post about finding the best size dog harness for your pup, check out this blog post! Image credits. It is an adjustable harness that comes with two metal attachments for leashes, with one being on the front and the other at the back. The front attachment clip is meant for dogs who pull. If the dog starts pulling when the leash is attached to the front clip, they will be turned around instead of going forward. After a while, this will get frustrating, and they will learn that it is best not to pull. This makes it a great tool for teaching your feisty one how to be obedient. Once they have learned not to pull, you can switch to the back attachment clip. This harness will not give you any problems when it comes to putting it on or taking it off. The straps are also adjustable to allow you to find the size that fits snugly on the animal. This ensures that you do not have to worry about the Golden escaping the harness. This harness also comes with reflective strips to ensure that your dog is visible and therefore, safe when walking at night. The only downside to this harness is that the straps loosen after extended periods of intense activity. Nonetheless, the Rabbitgoo dog harness more than makes up for that drawback in quality and functionality, which is why we have it as our top pick. Key Features Fully padded straps Ergonomic design No sensitive area, from the underarm to the throat, will be at risk when your dog has this harness on. Even during intense exercises, they will stay comfortable. Since golden retrievers have sensitive skin, look for a harness that can be adjusted across the chest, belly, and back to prevent chafing and skin irritation. Reflective Straps: Reflective material will keep your goldie visible even in low light conditions, thus increasing safety during walks. Hence, strong metal buckles are essential for keeping your dog safe and secure during walks. No-Pull Design: Is a necessity if your golden retriever likes to pull during walks. A no-pull harness comes with a front ring that offers better control and can help you in training your dog how to heal. Ultimately, whichever you choose, it will teach your dog to stop pulling and ensure that you have some fun walking instead of running after your goldie. To sum up, golden retrievers are highly energetic and playful dogs who need a lot of exercise to stay out of trouble and in great shape. Taking your pooch on long walks is always a great idea, but you will need the best harness for a golden retriever if you want to have fun and be safe. You May Also Like.

These days she writes professionally about dogs and is a Licensed Veterinary Technician. Her free time is managed by her two beautiful Belgian Tervuren, one crazy cat, and two zebra finches. She has a BA from Cornell University. Daily Paws' Editorial Guidelines Published on February 10, You notice that your dog has dry white flakes on his back and has been leaving flakes on his favorite dog bed. Just like in humans, dandruff occurs in dogs when flakes of dead skin cells start falling out of place and hanging out on the hair and wherever they land. While in humans dandruff usually affects the head, in dogs one of the most common places is the back especially toward the tail. You may see dry white "flakes" on your dog's coat or in places where he likes to hang out and nap. You may also notice that his skin is dry and be able to see it flake when giving him a good scratch. The official name for dandruff is seborrheic dermatitis. Your dog's skin includes sebaceous glands that produce sebum, an oil that helps to keep the skin moist and flexible. When these glands produce too much sebum, it causes an imbalance in the skin. There are two forms of seborrheic dermatitis: seborrhea sicca dry seborrhea and seborrhea oleosa oily seborrhea. Dogs can have a combination of the two. A variety of things can cause dandruff in dogs, and any breed or mix can be affected. In some cases it is a primary issue due to a genetic condition like primary seborrhea most commonly in cocker spaniels , West Highland white terriers, and basset hounds or ichthyosis affected breeds include golden retrievers , Cavalier King Charles spaniels , and Yorkshire terriers. But more often it is either caused by something in the environment or an underlying health disorder. Dry Air Just like us, dogs can be afflicted by dry skin in the winter months when the air is drier than normal. Forced-air heating can exacerbate the issue. If you only notice dandruff on your dog during the winter months, lack of humidity in the air may be to blame. Like other external parasites such as fleas , ticks , and Demodex and Sarcoptes mites, these unwelcome guests live and feed on your dog's skin, and will cause him to be very itchy. Obesity and Nutritional Issues An improper diet can cause your dog to miss out on nutrients that he needs to keep his skin and coat healthy. Make sure that your dog is eating a high-quality, balanced dog food. Fatty acids such as omega-3s and omega-6s play a role in skin health, and some dogs benefit from additional supplementation of these in their diets. It's important to check with your vet before introducing anything new to your dog's diet, however. As you know, obesity puts your dog at risk for a wide variety of health conditions. Poor skin health is just the tip of the iceberg. Skin Infections Bacterial and fungal infections on the skin can also cause dandruff to occur. These tiny invaders may also take advantage of your dog's weakened skin due to other conditions to cause a secondary infection. Whether the dandruff or the skin infection came first, bacterial and fungal infections require appropriate treatment to get your dog's skin back to a healthy state. Allergies Food and environmental allergies in dogs usually manifest as skin problems. Affected dogs may be itchy during particular times of the year, suffer from chronic ear and skin infections, or constantly lick their paws. Dandruff is usually just one symptom of a dog with allergies. Hormonal Conditions Diseases such as hypothyroidism and Cushing's disease can cause changes in your dog's skin health. A weakened immune system will also make him more vulnerable to secondary infections. Idiopathic Seborrhea Sometimes we don't know what causes seborrheic dermatitis, hence the use of the term 'idiopathic,' or spontaneous. Dogs where the cause of flaky skin is unknown can be treated symptomatically to provide relief, and additional management care can be provided as needed. When to See the Vet for Your Dog's Dandruff Problem If your dog just has mild seasonal or occasional dandruff, it's probably nothing to worry about. But you'll want to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian if your dog is also experiencing any of these symptoms: Itchiness An odor to the skin Excessive amounts of dandruff Red, irritated skin Other signs of illness or discomfort Diagnosing the cause of your dog's dandruff will depend on your dog's exact symptoms and what your vet suspects might be the problem based on a physical exam. Dog Dandruff Treatment and Home Remedies Depending on how severe the case is, your pup's dandruff can often be treated on your own at home. Incorporate some of these tips into your regular care routine to help get your dog's dandruff under control and help him feel more comfortable again. Grooming Regular grooming is the cornerstone of skin and coat health in dogs, and plays an important role in managing dandruff. Brushing your dog helps to disperse the excess skin oils throughout his coat so that they aren't pooling on the skin, and also removes dead hair. Brush daily while your dog is having an outbreak of dandruff, and weekly for general maintenance grooming. Misting with water can help to decrease static for long haired dogs, or you can use a conditioning spray intended for dogs, though you'll want to consult with your veterinarian first to make sure that any grooming product you use won't impact other treatments your dog is receiving. Bathing Giving your dog a bath is often beneficial for seborrhea outbreaks and bacterial and fungal infections. Once your vet has diagnosed the cause of your dog's skin problems, she may prescribe an appropriate medicated shampoo. Follow directions on the bottle carefully. Some shampoos need to be left on the dog for several minutes to work their magic. Also pay attention to how often your dog should be bathed , as bathing too often can dry out your dog's skin and either make the current symptoms worse or cause additional problems. Rinse thoroughly after all baths, whether you are using a medicated shampoo for a dandruff outbreak or regular shampoo for maintenance grooming as many shampoos can be irritating if they are not rinsed off. Always be cautious when choosing a supplement, as these products are not as heavily regulated as medications. Healthy Diet Be sure to feed your pooch a balanced dietthat meets your dog's nutritional needs. Choose a diet that has an AAFCO Statement on the label indicating that the food meets the nutrient profiles for your dog's life stage or that it has undergone feeding trials. Humidifier Usage It may be beneficial for you and your pets! The steam can help soothe and hydrate his dry skin to make your dog more comfortable and less itchy. Treat Other Health Conditions As well as home care to manage dandruff, your dog will need to be treated for any underlying conditions that he may have. Once the underlying condition has been addressed, your dog's skin will be much healthier. Was this page helpful? However, it's a lot more difficult to detect dandruff in light-colored pets. Therefore, you must understand additional symptoms so you can learn how to treat dandruff in dogs. What many don't know is that dog dandruff tends to be a secondary, therefore it's a smart idea to consult your veterinarian for additional help. However, if your dog is experiencing dandruff there is a likely chance, they may have allergies, dry skin, small infection, or environmental influencers that are causing dandruff. Therefore, if you continue reading, you'll begin to understand what to look for in your dog and how to treat dandruff in dogs as well. Causes of Dog Dandruff - When it comes to learning how to treat dandruff in dogs, you must first understand what causes the condition. Therefore, we've evaluated the top three most common causes for dogs to have dandruff. Changing Climates - The first and most common cause of dandruff in dogs is climate change. As seasons come and go especially from summer to fall and winter. The climate can change from an abundance of moisture in the air to fall and winter when the humidity and moisture begins to get dry. However, if they have a light coat you may find dandruff on a dark dog bed or blanket, they sleep on. Poor Dietary Intake - The second most common cause of dandruff in dogs would be a poor diet. The days are gone when you go down the dog food aisle and see just two brands and pick the cheapest. Now if you walk into your local pet store you may find two, three, or maybe even four isles dedicated to just dog food. Because dog owners such as yourself demand a high-quality diet for their dog. However, with that said there are dozens and dozens of food manufacturers and not all are created equal. It's easy to look at a bag and assume it's a good diet for your dog. However, you must dig into the ingredients and know exactly the quality of diet you're providing your dog. Because dogs can get dandruff due to a lack of vitamins, nutrients, fat, protein which can cause unhealthy skin and coat. Health Conditions - The third most common causes of dandruff are health conditions. There is a wide array of conditions dogs can contract from mites, to auto-immune diseases that can cause poor quality skin and lead to dandruff. Some of these health conditions can be avoided by taking proper care of your dog, but some health conditions are hard to avoid if they're due to conditions the dog has from a puppy on. How To Spot Dandruff Symptoms On Your Dog - Spotting dandruff in your dog can be a very easy task if you have a dark-colored dog with short to moderately short hair. However, this can be a bit more challenging if your dog has a light-colored coat. For example, I have a black lab whose coat makes dandruff easy to identify. However, some other signs and symptoms to look for in all colored fur are quite easy. The first way to look and identify dandruff symptoms is to look for your dog scratching more than normal. If your dog is consistently scratching their coat throughout the day, it's a good time to exam their coat for dandruff. The second way to look for dandruff or if you've identified some abnormal scratching is to use a brush or a comb. Give your dog a thorough brush and look in the clumps of hair for dandruff as you brush. How To Treat Dandruff In Dogs - Now that you know the causes of dandruff and how to spot dandruff in dogs it's time to learn how to treat dandruff in dogs. Try to make brushing your pet times a week your goal to remove the dead skin from their coat. We highly recommend brushing your dog with a high quality brush like the Furminator or something similar. This also helps reduce shedding, which can also contribute to dry, itchy skin for your pet. After brushing, we highly recommend using some sort of shampoo prevention. Most veterinarians for pets can point you in the right direction of a high quality dandruff shampoo for your dog. As far as frequency of bathing your dog goes, we recommend giving your dog a bath no more than every weeks. Commonly your dog will end up having skin allergies as a result of the grain or protein in their food, even if it is a high quality dog food recommended by a vet. In other words, dandruff is a symptom of other skin conditions, and their diet is often the underlying cause. Oftentimes this means increasing the intake of omega-3 fatty acids, commonly with a natural fish oil supplement, or better yet a natural krill oil supplement like Alpha Dog Nutrition's Vitality. Some dog owners also give their dog a scoop of coconut oil to keep their skin healthy, although veterinarians haven't found that to be as effective for skin issues as omega-3 fatty acids. This should go without saying, but if you ever have concerns about pet health your veterinarian is oftentimes your best resource. While there are certainly other ways to find information about how to keep your dog healthy like this blog , it simply isn't a substitute for a vet having a firsthand look at your dog and being able to physically see them in a veterinarian dog care center. Dandruff In Dogs — Discovering that your dog has dandruff is a common occurrence that many owners face. However, knowing when and what to look for may allow you to prevent the dandruff and the discomfort it may cause your dog. After consulting with pet nutritionists and veterinarians from all over the United States, Alpha Dog Nutrition finally made it's debut. Our highly specialized formulas are now available to hunting dogs throughout the world. But did you know that puppies can get dandruff too? What causes dog dandruff? Dogs will groom themselves to get rid of the old, dead skin cells as they shed, keeping their coat in top condition. Puppies are more likely to develop dandruff than older dogs. These glands become more developed as your pup gets older, which often will bring an end to their dandruff issues. Brushing your puppy will help to spread the natural oils in their coat, which will often result in a shinier coat and could go some way to combatting dandruff. However, there are lots of reasons why your puppy might have dandruff aside from underdeveloped glands. Health conditions that lead to dog dandruff Skin infections Skin infections can cause dry and itchy skin, which naturally leads to the development of dandruff. To identify if your puppy is suffering from a skin condition or infection, your vet will take some skin samples to make an accurate diagnosis. Illness Flaky skin could be a giveaway that your pooch is feeling under the weather. If they are lethargic or unwell, they are less likely to keep up their high grooming standards, leading to more dandruff building up. Excessive scratching could lead to your puppy getting dandruff. Fleas thrive in warm, damp environments and flock indoors during winter. Read our guide on how to keep your dog itch-free and safe from fleas. Allergies Skin reactions that cause dandruff could be triggered by an allergic reaction. Your puppy could be allergic to certain foods dogs can develop food allergies without warning at any time or environmental factors such as pollen or dust mites. Your vet may recommend food allergy testing and may suggest a dietary elimination or a hypoallergenic diet. In the case of seasonal allergies, treatment with anti-inflammatory medication or a medicated shampoo might be suggested. Read our advice on allergies in dogs. How can I treat puppy dandruff? If your puppy has a persistent problem with dandruff, there are lots of options to improve the health of their skin. Specialist dog shampoos, such as VetSoothe Oil-Balance Shampoo , are specially formulated to help manage greasy and flaky skin. Give them dietary supplements Dietary supplements are a great way to give your puppy natural support for their skin. They contain beneficial Omega-3 Fatty Acids that help to calm sensitive skin and reduce itching and redness. Speak to your vet about adding Fatty Acid supplements to your dog's diet to boost their skin health. Need more info? For expert advice on puppy dandruff and skin problems, contact your local vet. Find your nearest vet using our Find a Vet page. Yes, they can. You may have noticed the not-so-welcome flakes sitting atop your precious pup's fur during your last grooming session. Are white flakes hanging around your home and dog a nuisance? But there's no need for alarm or panic when dealing with pet dandruff. In most cases, dandruff is very manageable. With a bit of determination and patience, you can help your dog's coat regain its healthy look and feel. Dandruff is fairly common in pets, but it's important to discover its origins so you can accurately assess and rid your pet of annoying flakes. If you're curious for heady, scientific details, the official name for doggy dandruff is seborrheic dermatitis or seborrhea for short. Wow—that's a mouthful! Before we dive into the various ways you can rid your pet of the flaky nuisance, let's first discuss the leading causes and symptoms associated with pet dandruff. Pet dandruff is pretty easy to detect. It appears as small, white flakes that cling to your dog's fur. These flakes can also fall off and attach to bedding, upholstery and a variety of other household items. Another giveaway that your dog might have dandruff is if she's constantly licking, scratching or biting her skin. Occasionally, if a more severe issue is present, you might also notice redness, hair loss and even a foul odor near affected areas. While dandruff in itself isn't harmful, it's definitely unsightly. Dandruff tends to be a secondary issue, so it's essential to get to the root of the problem and treat the underlying cause—not just the dandruff. Dandruff appears when your dog's sebaceous glands over-produce an oil called sebum. This oil helps keep your precious pup's skin moist and healthy. However, when the sebaceous glands produce too much oil, it causes an imbalance, which in turn causes dandruff. Your dog's dandruff comes in two forms: dry seborrhea sicca and oily seborrhea oleosa. And it can occur for several reasons: Bacterial and fungal infections take advantage of a dog's compromised immunity. An unbalanced diet can decrease essential nutrients needed for a healthy coat and overall health—including obesity in some cases. Seasonal or environmental allergies can cause dryness of the skin. Stress can present in a variety of ways , including dandruff. Grooming activities, like too much bathing. Every dog requires bathing from time to time, but probably not as often as you might think. In many cases, your dog's dandruff is simply a symptom of dry skin caused by weather or seasonal shedding. You can prevent or remove this type of dandruff with a few simple changes to your grooming routine. Grooming .Brush your pup regularly with an appropriate brush or comb to help keep the skin and coat healthy and shiny, which may prevent dandruff in the first place. If your pup does have dandruff, the brush and comb will help remove the flakes. Sometimes the shampoo you use dries out your pup's skin. Be sure to choose a shampoo that doesn't strip your dog's coat of natural oils,3 and avoid using human shampoos because human hair care products aren't formulated for a dog's pH levels. Both soothe your dog's skin and coat and keep them healthy. Plus, the shampoos prevent flea reinfestations for 28 days. Oatmeal baths. Oatmeal baths are a well-known treatment for dandruff and are easy to do at home. Mix the ingredients thoroughly. Wet your dog with warm water, slowly add the oatmeal mixture and lather as you would shampoo. Allow the mixture to sit on your dog's skin for several minutes before rinsing. Do you live in a dry climate, or is there less moisture in the home often in the winter? Try a humidifier; they add moisture back into the environment, which will help the skin from drying out. A humidifier is not only good for your dog, but it will benefit you as well—your hair and skin will definitely thank you. If the above suggestions don't seem to help your dog's skin and coat, it may be time to consult a professional. Your vet may prescribe a new dog food or even vitamin supplements, depending on the root cause. A quick once-over by the vet and a possible blood draw can help properly diagnose the issue, which helps formulate an appropriate treatment plan. If you don't currently have a family vet, finding someone you can trust with your furry friend is important. Remember, a caring veterinarian wants to partner with you to ensure your pup's health and happiness. Now that you have a better understanding of pet dandruff, you should be able to assess your pet's needs better. Diagnosing and treating your dog's dandruff can be RUFF, but you can handle it! Now that you know what to look for, grab your favorite grooming tool and enjoy some one-on-one time with your favorite pup. Your time together can be both enjoyable and productive. Skin and coat care may not be the last step in ridding your furry friend of dandruff, but it's a step in the right direction. Xu, Elizabeth. Jamieson, Amy. Can I put coconut oil on my dog? What Causes Dandruff in Labrador Retrievers? There are a variety of things that can cause dandruff in Labrador retrievers and other breeds, In some cases, it happens due to a genetic condition like seborrhea, or ichthyosis. For the most part, it is a secondary condition brought by another cause such as food allergies and environmental allergies. Dandruff Causes in Labradors as well as other Breeds 1. Seborrhea It is a medical condition where small cells travel too fast to the surface. So they flake away like dandruff. The dead skin then falls off around the neck and the labrador collar appears as white flakes. Low humidity Low humidity also can be a reason for dandruff and dry skin for your puppy. Especially if you live in a dry area. Poor Diet If your dog is not eating a proper diet it will miss out on the essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and fat from its daily food. Their coat may suffer. Make sure you are providing a properly balanced diet for your Labrador. Fatty acids such as omega-3s and omega-6s play a vital role in skin health. Overfeeding Yes, overfeeding can also cause dandruff as well as dry and flaky skin. I suggest you use a magnifying glass for a closer look to see if the dandruff is moving. If it is moving, then it might be walking dandruff, the medical term is Cheyletiellosis. So, in this case, I would suggest you visit a vet as soon as possible. It needs to be treated by the vet. Dry Air Just like humans, dogs can also be affected by dry air in the winter season when air is drier than normal. If you see dandruff on your labrador or lab puppy during the winter months lack of humidity in the air may be to blame. Is Dandruff Normal In Puppies? Dandruff occurs in dogs just like in humans. Dandruff in humans usually affects the head. But, in dogs and puppies, dandruff is seen on the back especially towards the tail. Dandruff is very common in Labradors and also in other breeds. Here are some of the symptoms which are commonly seen in dogs. Redness or Odor You may see redness on some parts of your puppy. If they have an allergy or skin infection skin can often be red. Itching or Discomfort You may notice any kind of discomfort behavior in your puppy, also itching. Allergies Every experienced Vet always says that environmental allergies are common in dogs, but we cannot neglect food allergies. Skin Infection Skin infection can be also a reason for dandruff. Such as yeast, or bacterial infections. There can be some other reasons too, such as excessive licking and lack of nutrition. Puppy Dandruff Home Remedies There are a large number of dandruff remedies that can be done at home. Regular Grooming You can easily groom your Labrador at home. It is the same for puppies. Bowl of Water Make sure your dog drinks enough water every day. Give him a full bowl of water. Always keep a fresh bowl of water handy for your puppy to keep him hydrated. Vitamin E Vitamin E is great for treating a skin issue internally or externally. Here are some foods that are high in Vitamin E: Salmon. Well, Yes, this annoying, unsightly skin condition can often hit your dog, and it should never be taken normally. Just like humans, dogs too can struggle with the pain of Dandruff. However, is there anything alarming about Dog Dandruff? Dandruff is pretty common in Adult Labs and puppies. We will discuss them in detail later in this article. Is it normal for puppies to have Dandruff? Is Dog Dandruff alarming? Sebaceous Glands basically produce oil that aids in keeping the coat shiny and sleek. However, once the dog gets older, the dandruff issue will probably end or at least slow down to a great extent. For instance, the situation goes alarming when your dog develops pimples and scabs and experiences excessive itching and hair loss. Such symptoms, along with visible Dandruff, can be a sign of any serious underlying issue. Therefore, upon observing the same with your dog, it is better to reach a Veterinarian soon. The Vet will suggest your dog for some tests, including Blood tests, bacterial and fungal checks, and potentially a skin scrap test as well. Are Labradors prone to Dandruff? Labradors or dogs, in general, are prone to Dandruff and flakiness. However, not all Labradors but Black Labs are more prone to catching skin conditions like Dandruff. When Labs suffer from Dandruff, the flakes of their dead skin will fall out or completely hang into their hair. Besides that, you may also notice tiny white flakes on their blanket, your clothes, or other common surfaces where your dog usually rest or stay active. Dandruff on your Labradors appears very similar to that on humans. Why does my lab puppy have Dandruff? Dandruff on Labradors can appear due to a variety of reasons. As with humans, Dandruff in dogs can be a result of many physical and as well as external factors. From yeast infections to allergies, dog dandruff can appear due to endless reasons. Here we will get into some of the most common causes. Seborrhea is a medical condition categorized as Primary and Secondary. While Primary Seborrhea is majorly genetic and less likely to hit many dogs. It is commonly Secondary Seborrhea that leads to skin conditions like Dandruff. The latter is often a result of underlying skin conditions or allergies. Skin Infections Fungal Skin Infections Either dogs or humans can suffer from Skin Infections regardless of how careful a life they lead. Dandruff, though, is a by-product, but such infections will primarily lead to greasy patches, hot spots, rashes, and sometimes even painful wounds. Yeast Infections and Bacterial Infections Dogs may often suffer from yeast infections, and you may probably observe them scratching or licking that infectious part. Though less likely but in some cases, yeast infections too can lead to irritated, itchy, or flaky skin. Similarly, bacterial infections like impetigo and folliculitis can also lead to heavy Dandruff in dogs. The former develops near the abdomen, likely on a hairless portion and is common amongst puppies. It may cause sores, bumps, and scabs on the skin and eventually lead to flaky and irritating skin. An infestation of mites often causes this skin disease. However, since the mites are visible to the naked eyes, one can spot them appearing like Dandruff. Endocrine disorders Endocrine disorders are hormonal disorders, and dogs commonly suffer from their Cushing and Hypothyroidism variants. In many cases, the heavy effects of such disorders can also lead to Dandruff and other clinical signs. Or, Hypothyroidism is another condition that leads dogs to secondary infections such as Dandruff. Parasitic infections such as fleas which are often caused by mites can also lead to Dandruff in dogs. Environmental and Food Allergies Dogs can develop both environmental and food allergies, which can lead them to skin problems like Dandruff. In dogs, allergies usually lead to skin issues, including dry, flaky skin. Therefore, doing a patch test of products or a special hypoallergenic diet trial is better before introducing something new to your canine buddy. In addition, it will probably make their coat suffer, causing dull hair, hair loss, and Dandruff. Fatty acids such as omega-3s and omega-6s are some essential supplements for keeping skin and hair healthy. Therefore the absence of such ingredients in the diet can lead to Dandruff. Under or Over-Grooming Under or Over-Grooming in dogs can contribute to dandruff development, dry skin, and other skin-related conditions. How do I get rid of Dandruff on my lab puppy? A couple of flakes once in a long while may go on their own. However, a settled dandruff condition that has been there for a long and prominently needs medical and medicinal assistance. Here are some Symptoms of Dandruff amongst Labradors that may ask for quick action: Itching or discomfort Dandruff means itching, which eventually leads to discomfort. Flaky skin often initiates itching or behavior, signalling discomfort. If you notice a few flakes, try brushing them out. However, if the flakes persist, it is an alarming situation. Odor Dandruff, due to allergies or infections, can sometimes behave stinky too. Puppy has dandruff and itching: Labrador dandruff treatment. The ones that appear due to climatic and environmental conditions usually go on their own as the weather changes. Dandruff due to food allergies, too, goes as and when the allergy gets treated. However, in many cases, especially if the underlying cause is an infection or so on, Dandruff can persist in your Labrador. You can prevent or remove this type of Dandruff either at home or by visiting the Vet. Here are 9 tips and tricks for the same: Regular brushing and combing help in keeping the coat of Labradors or any other dog shiny. Doing so may prevent dandruff generation in the first place. Bathing is another crucial part of grooming that helps in dandruff-causing conditions like seborrhea or bacterial and fungal infections. Using a humidifier at home will increase air moisture content and potentially counter seasonal Dandruff. An oatmeal bath or anti-dandruff shampoo can also help fight Dandruff amongst dogs. Now wet your dog and rub the mixture generously all over his body, especially the areas infected with Dandruff. Repeat the process once every week until you notice improvement. Ensure your dog is getting a balanced and nutritious diet. Treat any underlying health conditions that are leading to Dandruff and flaky skin problems in your dog. Ensure no food, environmental, or medicinal condition is triggering Dandruff in dog. Rule out all the possibilities and work on improving them. Feed your dog yoghurt or kefir , basically probiotics. Which shampoo should I use for my Labrador puppy dandruff? Safe for dogs of all ages, This formula will not wash off flea and tick preventatives. Oatmeal has a natural soothing agent and is great for hotspots and other skin conditions. Aloe is a powerhouse natural ingredient that brings soothing relief to dry, itchy, flaky skin. This is the only shampoo we have found safe and effective. He loves the smell too! The Brand Used by Professionals - Wahl has been serving professional vets and groomers for over 50 years. Unlike other industry-standard dog shampoos that may contain harmful synthetic chemicals, Well has .Our eco-friendly formula is plant based, but still works wonders at cleaning and conditioning the coat. Prevent matting and irritation, and keep your pup happy with each bath. Honest Paws Guarantee - We hold ourselves to the highest of standards when it comes to your satisfaction. If you are not satisfied with your product, let us know, so we can make it right. In a tub or shower K9-Max pet wash shampoo applies easily using warm water. Simply wet your pet thoroughly then apply a generous amount of puppy shampoo and conditioner tear free, head to tail to feet. Soap and Paraben Free. We hope the information and ideas shared above will come in handy to many pet parents if not all. A quick once-over will help you find the underlying cause of the condition and treat it rightfully and, of course, immediately. Welcome To The Oxford Family! Post navigation. What causes dandruff in dogs? Dandruff in dogs is generally a secondary condition that has a number of different causes, like allergies, serious skin problems, or certain genetic disorders, to name a few. The low humidity amplifies skin conditions. Spring and summer can also be tough for dogs that may have seasonal allergies to contend with, as well. What are the symptoms of dog dandruff? If you notice certain seasonal patterns, be sure to mention this to your vet. Or sometimes it can be all over the body. The skin might smell different. There are certain breeds that are predisposed to having a genetic condition that causes them to be really flaky. But, in general, any breed of dog can develop a case of dandruff. Dog dandruff treatment: Common causes and recommended treatments Most dogs who have dandruff will have a secondary issue, Cain says. Think about things like allergy testing. Immune-mediated diseases One example Cain gives is a condition called sebaceous adenitis that requires a skin biopsy to diagnose. Home remedies for dog dandruff and itching There are home remedies to try if your dog has mild dandruff. Speak with your veterinarian before feeding your pet any supplements or vitamins, which are typically in liquid or capsule form. Try anti-dandruff or a soothing oatmeal dog shampoo Using an anti-dandruff shampoo made for dogs can help. Feed your dog a good diet Make sure your dog has a balanced diet with the proper nutrients. Related Articles.

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. Size variations between F types This is your complete guide to Labradoodle size. The Labradoodle The Labradoodle dog is a hybrid dog breed. What this basically means is that Labradoodles have one purebred Poodle parent dog and one purebred Labrador Retriever parent dog. In the world of Labradoodle breeders, there are three adult size ranges: miniature, medium and standard. As you can imagine, the size of the Poodle parent can greatly impact adult Labradoodle size. But not always in the ways you might expect. In the case of standard Labradoodles, the Poodle parent is a standard Poodle. In the case of miniature Labradoodles, the Poodle parent is a miniature Poodle. The medium Labradoodle size can occur in either pairing, which we will talk about in greater detail here shortly. History of the Breed Labradoodles as a hybrid breed got their start in the s in Australia. A blind woman from Hawaii wrote to a man named Walter Conron. Conron was then in charge of breeding and training guide dogs for the Royal Guide Dog Association of Australia. The blind woman had a special problem: her husband was wildly allergic to dogs. So she was reaching out in hopes of finding a hypoallergenic dog to help her get around. Conron took on the challenge with gusto, and to make a long story short, the Labradoodle was the result. Labradoodles still make fabulous service dogs. But they are also beloved as family pets for their famously friendly, smart, intuitive personality, their adorable appearance and, in some cases, their non-shedding coats. This variance relates to the size of each parent dog. And also to what generation breeding program the puppy comes from more about that topic here later. Standard Labradoodle puppies typically weigh between 7 and 12 pounds by the time they are two months old. But in 10 more short months, they may weigh up to 80 pounds depending on the size of each parent dog. Miniature Labradoodle puppies, in contrast, may only weigh 4 to 7 pounds at the age of two months. In 10 months, they may weigh anywhere from 30 to 45 pounds. This depends on the size of each parent dog. To estimate the size of medium Labradoodle puppies, it is best to learn as much as you can about the breeding pair. Important factors include whether the Poodle parent if you choose an F1 breeder is a Standard Poodle or a Miniature Poodle. Labradoodle Growth You need to know the breed size of each parent dog and the exact weight of your little Labradoodle pup to work out how big they will grow. Or use the four fold or double up formula. The Four Fold Formula When your puppy reaches the age of two months, the number you see on the scale typically represents one-quarter of his or her estimated adult weight. The Double Up Formula When your puppy reaches the age of four months, the number you see on the scale typically represents one-half of his or her estimated adult weight. For this reason, even though using these formulas can give you a handy point of reference as your Labradoodle puppy grows up, no formula should be used to substitute frequent weigh-ins and health check-ups by a qualified canine vet. To help moderate growth neither too slow nor too fast , if your Labradoodle puppy falls into the miniature to medium size range, select a Labradoodle puppy food that is formulated for the needs of smaller breed dogs. On the other hand, if your Labradoodle puppy is projected to be a standard size in adulthood, you will want to select a puppy food formulated for the needs of medium to large breed dogs. They can help you adjust portion sizes and Labradoodle puppy foods as needed. Labradoodle size in adulthood can vary depending on gender. In general, adult males tend to outweigh adult females by 10 to 15 pounds. Of course, this is not always the case. Other factors that can influence adult weight include birth order and food type. Also feeding schedule, activity level and health in puppyhood. Hybrid dog breeding always includes genetic uncertainty. The Reason Behind This Why can Labradoodle size in adulthood be so hard to precisely predict, you might be wondering? The answer relates back to the nature of hybrid dog breeding itself. Whenever two different sets of canine genes combine, it is not possible to predict exactly how each set of genes will influence a given puppy in any litter. For example, in Labradoodle breeding programs, this means some puppies in a hybrid litter may grow up to look and act more like Labrador Retrievers while other puppies may grow up to look and act more like Poodles. Labradoodle Breeding Programs There are different types of Labradoodle breeding programs. Some programs contain a greater amount of genetic uncertainty than other programs. Here is a basic overview of the different programs in order of greatest to least genetic uncertainty: F1: This Labradoodle puppy will have one purebred Poodle parent and one purebred Labrador Retriever parent. F2: This Labradoodle puppy will have two F1 Labradoodle parents. Using This To Choose Your Labradoodle Size If it is very important for you to ensure your Labradoodle will be a certain size when fully grown, we encourage you to seek out a multi-generational Labradoodle breeder to work with. It is also very helpful to meet each parent dog to assess potential size variance in adulthood before making a commitment to a puppy. Here again, meeting each parent dog can help you assess potential coat variance in adulthood. These two examples will give you more insight into how sizing differences arise. It can even happen between Labradoodle puppies within a single litter. Here, the adult Labrador Retriever parent will typically weigh l The adult Standard Poodle parent will typically weigh between 40 and 70 pounds. A breeding pair where the Standard Poodle weighs 40 pounds will theoretically produce more size variance in a litter than a breeding pair where the Standard Poodle weighs 70 pounds. Miniature Labradoodle Size Variance In the case of miniature Labradoodle size, you will have a Labrador Retriever parent dog weighing between 65 and 80 pounds and a miniature Poodle parent weighing between 10 and 15 pounds. Here, it is easy to see how you can expect quite a bit of size variance in early F1, F1b breeding programs regardless of what each parent dog weighs. How big do Teacup Labradoodles get? Usually, the full grown Teacup Labradoodle size is around inches tall and weighs in at about 13 pounds or lighter. A decent guide to how tall they will be is a standard sheet of printer paper. JJ the Teacup Labradoodle is 10 pounds. Photo courtesy of Kelsey Janine on Facebook. These little pups are typically the result of breeding the Toy Poodle with a Mini Labradoodle. The Toy Poodle stands around 10 inches in height and weighs in at around 6 and 9 pounds. The Mini Labradoodle stands around inches in height and weighs between 20 and 40 pounds. How big do Toy Labradoodles get? On average, a full grown Toy Labradoodle is around inches tall and weighs around 13 to 20 pounds. Mia the Toy Labradoodle is 18 pounds. Photo courtesy of Lina Fridman on Facebook. The first parent breed, the Mini Poodle, stands around inches in height and weighs in between 12 and 20 pounds. The second parent breed, the Labrador Retriever, is a much larger breed in comparison—they usually stand between 22 and 24 inches tall, and weigh 55 and 79 pounds! How big do Mini Labradoodles get? On average, the full grown adult Mini Labradoodle size is 16 to 20 inches in height and pounds. Typically, they fall on the smaller end of that scale between pounds in weight and inches in height. Murphy the Mini Labradoodle is 27 pounds. Photo courtesy of Terra Schulz on Facebook. It is often used to describe larger Miniature Labradoodles or smaller Standard Labradoodles. How big do Medium Labradoodles get? Delta Belle the Medium Labradoodle is 39 pounds. Photo courtesy of Kayla Dear on Facebook. The Standard Poodle is anywhere between 18 and 24 inches in height and weighs between 45 and 70 pounds. The Labrador Retriever is just slightly larger and stands between 22 and 24 inches in height and on average weighs between 55 and 79 pounds. How big do Standard Labradoodles get? The full grown Standard Labradoodle size ranges from inches in height, and usually weighs between 40 and 75 pounds. Cooper the Standard Labradoodle is 61 pounds. Photo courtesy of Scott Watson on Facebook. There are so many aspects that contribute to how big your Labradoodle will be when fully grown! Some of the main components include their gender, the height and weight of the parents, and which generation of Labradoodle your puppy is. The combination of all of these factors make it somewhat difficult to predict exactly how big your dog will be, but it can help us come up with a general estimate! First, their gender plays a role in answering the question of how big do Labradoodles get. Before getting a puppy, many ask themselves the question: should I choose a male vs female Labradoodle? On average, the height and weight of a male Labradoodle will be slightly larger than a female Labradoodle. In smaller breeds like the Peekapoo and Pomapoo , it may not be as noticeable, but in larger breeds such as the Labradoodle, you could expect a ballpark estimate of the size difference to be inches in height and around 5 pounds. The genetics that are passed from the parents to their offspring play a role in how large a Labradoodle will get. Finally, which generation of Labradoodle your pup is will be a big part of how big they will get! Dog generations can be confusing! For more information, check out our article on Labradoodle generations to learn more! In simple terms, a Labradoodle puppy that has more Poodle than Labrador Retriever could be slightly smaller than a Labradoodle that has more Labrador Retriever than Poodle. This is because on average, the Poodle is smaller than the Labrador Retriever. For example, if a dog is estimated to be .In simple terms, the higher percentage of the smaller dog, the smaller the dog is likely to be. When Do Labradoodles Stop Growing? These puppy days will fly by, so savor them while you can! Labrador Retrievers are generally finished growing by 2 years of age. Standard Poodles can take 1. On the other hand, Miniature and Toy Poodles are generally finished growing by months of age. Standard Labradoodles will usually take slightly longer to reach their full size than Mini, Toy, or Teacup Labradoodles. This is because bigger dogs grow slower over a more extended period of time in comparison to smaller breeds. A Standard or Medium Labradoodle will likely grow like a weed for the first year and a half of their life, but may continue to grow and completely fill out until 2 years of age. Considering the mixes that create the Mini, Toy, and Teacup Labradoodles, they should be finished growing closer to months in age. Related Doodle Size Articles:. Active and needs lots of exercises History Of The Breed The labradoodle has been around since the s as a mix of the Labrador retriever and a full-size poodle. This breed was developed to create dogs with the loyalty, intelligence, and trainability of the Labrador retriever, with the low shedding coat of the poodle. The loyalty and high intelligence of poodles made them a great personality match for a Lab as well. Despite being bred as companion dogs, standard poodles are actually pretty big. They are at least 15 inches tall and can weigh anywhere from 45 to 70 pounds. When you combine that with a Labrador, which is inches tall and can weigh 70 pounds, you get a pretty big dog. They tend to be around inches tall and can weigh pounds. They are dogs that take up quite a bit of space! Of course, you can get a smaller labradoodle by breeding a Lab with a miniature or a toy poodle. This is not as easy to do as there can be a huge size difference between the pure-bred parents, but some breeders have been working for several generations to gradually reduce the size of their labradoodle pups. Mini Labradoodle Appearance There is still quite a bit of size difference between the miniature Labradoodles that you can get from a breeder; they can weigh anything from 15 to 30 pounds, and most will measure somewhere between 14 and 16 inches tall. The appearance of miniature Labradoodles can be more predictable than that of standard Labradoodles as they are usually bred from two labradoodle parents, rather than directly from the parent breeds. They will almost certainly have the low-shedding coat of a poodle since this is one of the principal traits that is controlled for. They could have a wool coat that needs daily brushing to release hair that gets caught up in the wiry texture or a fleece coat that is wavy. These may shed slightly more, but this coat is easy to care for. They can vary significantly in color since poodles come in a variety of colors, unlike Labradors which are yellow, black, or chocolate. They can be apricot, black, blue, brown, cream, gray, red, silver, silver-beige, or white. They may also be bicolor, though this is relatively rare. Temperament Labradoodles are highly intelligent dogs. Both Labradors and poodles are considered among the most intelligent breeds and can learn a new command with as few as five repetitions. Their offspring will certainly inherit this intelligence. Labradors are also highly trainable because they are eager to please and love having something to do! They are also reward-driven. This means that mini Labradoodles will be highly trainable as well. Both parent breeds love people and tend to form tight attachments with their families quickly. They are also pretty relaxed with strangers and are more likely to want to make friends than raise the alarm when someone shows up at the door. This is one of the reasons that they make excellent guide dogs or other working dogs. You should always pay attention when your miniature labradoodle starts barking. They can be a bit more standoffish with other pets, but socialization from a young age can teach them to make friends. You should take the time to introduce new pets into the home and let them get to know each other from a distance first when dealing with these dogs. Because both parent breeds love being around people, so do their miniature Lab children. They can become highly stressed and even develop depression. It is also common for them to become destructive when they feel frustrated. Since they are highly intelligent pups, they need a lot of mental stimulation. Teaching them tricks can be a great way to activate their minds, and puzzle toys can keep them distracted for a while, though they tend to figure things out pretty quickly. Be warned that they are also excellent escape artists, so all escape routes from the house need to be secured. Labradoodles love children and instinctively know how to be careful and protective of them. Of course, you should never leave children unattended with any dog for the safety of both, but a miniature labradoodle will love playing with kids, and the two high-energy forces can work to wear one another out. Activity Levels Despite their smaller size, miniature Labradoodles need almost as much exercise as their larger labradoodle cousins. They need at least an hour of active exercise each day, preferably split into two 30 minute periods. In addition to formal exercise, they do best when they have some outdoor space at home that they can potter around in and use to let off a bit of energy throughout the day. Nothing will make these dogs happier than accompanying the family on hikes and other adventures. Thanks to their Lab parent they also love the water and tend to be excellent swimmers. Health Concerns A miniature labradoodle may live as little as 10 or as long as 18 years, which can be very difficult to predict, but you should expect your canine companion to be with you for quite some time. While they are generally healthy dogs, they can be predisposed to a few health conditions that pet parents should be aware of. The first is gastric dilation, which is basically bloating. Gaining weight can be an immediate sign of this, but it wreaks havoc with many of their systems. This is another good reason to watch what you feed them, and consult your vet about relevant medication. These collapses can be life-threatening, so it is important to monitor your dog during exercise and rein them in if they show any sign of muscle weakness or lack of coordination. Consult your vet for long-term treatment. This can also be a sign of centronuclear myopathy, which is not unknown in this breed. Hip dysplasia can be another common issue, which is exacerbated if you overexercise your dog as a puppy. Restrict exercise until they are fully grown to ensure against abnormal growth. Eye conditions including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy are also pretty common, but most breeders should be screening for this. How To Find A Mini Labradoodle Puppy Labradoodles are a popular breed, so there are many active breeders, but finding one who specializes in miniature Labradoodles can be more challenging. Thankfully, there is a big community that loves this type of dog so there are many forums where you can ask around and get advice. Having read our guide to the miniature labradoodle, are you considering whether you should adopt one? Consider the following to make your final decision. This can lead to destructive frustration and serious depression. They do best in households when there is nearly always someone about, or when they can go to work with you. Their good behavior and low shedding mean that they are good dogs to take with you to other places. You also need to take the time to train these dogs, as they need lots of mental stimulation to keep them entertained. Are you willing to commit the time to their development? Despite their small size, these are high-energy dogs. As well as formal exercise, they will love joining you on weekend adventures and would rather be on the trail than sitting in front of the TV watching Netflix with you. Do you have the type of lifestyle that your dog will enjoy? Do You Have Kids? Miniature labradoodles are great with kids and they know how to both be protective and play gently. The key is to teach children how to treat dogs gently as well. They might not be the best fit for very young families just because they have lots of energy and need lots of attention. It can be a challenge to juggle the needs of young children and an energetic young pup at the same time. There are, however, lots of things to look out for to make sure these pups stay healthy and happy. They will bark during play or if they want to get your attention, but excessive barking is uncommon and is normally something that you should pay attention to. Do labradoodles chew furniture? Find our recommendations for the best puppy chew toys here. Can mini labradoodles be left alone? These dogs should not be left at home repeatedly for long workdays, though. These dogs do best when they have company for most of the day. Do labradoodles bond with one person? All dogs have a tendency to bond more strongly with one person than everyone else. This is usually their principal caregiver, but they have big hearts with room for everyone in the family, plus most of the strangers they meet. The miniature labradoodle is a smaller version of the original labradoodle that can do better in smaller family homes; however, they still have the same high energy and need at least some outdoor space to call their own. If you have always wanted a labradoodle, but resisted adopting one because of its size, the miniature labradoodle might be exactly the dog you are looking for. Do you have experience with miniature Labradoodles? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining. Not suited to apartment living due to size and exercise requirements. Good with Children Yes. A Standard Labradoodle is classified as a large dog breed. When they are fully grown, Standard Labradoodles get to a height of 20 to 26 inches .Their full adult weight is between 50 and pounds .Yes, Standard Labradoodles are a large breed because they weigh at least 50 pounds which is the condition for a dog to be considered a large breed. They also have an average height of 23 inches which is just over the 22 inch height requirement for a dog to be considered a large breed. Standard Labradoodles are 20 to 26 inches .Evidently, they are about 5 or 6 inches taller than this because of their head however the standard is to measure dogs at the withers their shoulders as their heads move so much. A Standard Labradoodle is between 50 and pounds in weight. Female Standard Labradoodles tend to be lighter weighing between 50 and 85 pounds while males generally weigh between 60 and pounds. There is such as wide weight range as they are a mixed breed dog and their weight highly depends upon the percentage of Poodle to Labrador Retriever genes they have. Generally Labradoodles that have a higher percentage of Labrador Retriever genes weigh more than ones that are more Poodle. Standard Labradoodles are fully grown between 12 and 18 months of age. As the largest version of the Labradoodle, they take the longest to reach their full adult size. The general rule is that large breeds grow at a slower rate than small breeds. It is expected that a Standard Labradoodle would reach its full height around 10 to 12 months of age and for the remaining months will gain weight at a steady rate. A Standard F1 Labradoodle is a first generation pup. This means that it was the result of breeding a purebred Standard Poodle with a purebred Labrador Retriever. A Standard F1b Labradoodle is the first cross-back generation. The main reason why breeders produce cross-back generations is to get a litter of Labradoodles that have curlier fur that more closely resembles a Poodle. This coat is more hypoallergenic and therefore more highly suited to allergy sufferers. Labradoodles can be both medium and large dogs, it depends on what size Poodle is bred with the Labrador Retriever. Standard Labradoodles are classified as a large dog breed while Medium Labradoodles and Mini Labradoodles that are on the larger size are considered to be medium sized dogs. Standard Labradoodles live for 12 to 15 years. This is the same lifespan length as Medium Labradoodles and only slightly shorter than Mini Labradoodles. As a mixed breed dog, Standard Labradoodles have less hereditary health issues than their purebred parents which prolongs their lifespan. This is one of the reasons why this cross breed was made in the first place. Check out the adorable Labradoodle puppies that are currently available here! PuppySpot is a dog adoption website that connects breeders with prospective pet owners. They have a zero tolerance policy for puppy mills which is why they screen every breeder annually! They have placed over , puppies in homes and offer various trusted, USDA-certified transportation options to deliver your puppy to your home safely! Further Reading.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. It is, therefore, no surprise that some breeders are starting to mix the two. Considering whether a German Shepherd Lab Mix is right for you? Read on for everything you need to know about this amazing mixed-breed dog. Lab German Shepherd Mix Overview Size — 22 to 25 inches tall and 50 to 80 pounds Coat — Medium length, double coat, color varies Shedding — Yes Temperament — Intelligent, active, and loyal, but can be wary of strangers Trainable — Highly, but prone to destructive behavior when bored Activity — Highly active needs two hours of activity per day Best For — Families and people with active lifestyles and lots of time to spend with them What is a German Shepherd Lab Mix? As these dogs are roughly the same size, the mother can be of either breed as long as she is larger than the father, to ensure against any difficulty in the birthing process. Sheprador Appearance As is the case for most mix-breed dogs, it is a bit of a gamble what you will get when these two come together. They might have the pointed ears of a German Shepherd or the floppy ears of a Labrador. There is nothing to do but wait and see. But luckily, both German Shepherds and Labradors are attractive dogs, so however they turn out they should be handsome. That said, we can make a few generalizations about the appearance of Shepradors. Size As both German Shepherds and Labradors are medium- to large-sized dogs, you can expect their mixed offspring to be the same. German Shepherds are the larger of the two and are usually between 50 and 90 pounds and 22 to 26 inches tall. Labradors are only a little bit smaller, at 50 to 80 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. So expect your German Shepherd Lab Mix to stand between 22 and 25 inches tall and weigh 50 to 80 pounds. You can narrow this range down a bit by looking at the size of the parents. Color The color of these gorgeous mixed-breed dogs is also highly variable, and you might end up with a pooch of a solid coat color, like Labs, or striking mixed coloring, like German Shepherds. A lot of this depends on the color of the Labrador parent, whether they are yellow, black, or chocolate. As a general rule, the darker the lab parent, the darker the coat of the pup. But you also get white German Shepherd Dogs, which can result in striking white Shepradors. Coat When it comes to coat length, you should expect in most cases that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will have a shorter coat, like that of a Labrador. This seems to be a dominant gene, and the vast majority of German Shepherd Lab Mixes end up with this type of coat. The dog will certainly have a double coat, as this is a feature of both breeds. The undercoat will be soft and fluffy, and the guard coat rough. This does mean that they shed—a lot. This is not the type of dog to have at home if anyone in the household suffers from allergies. Shepherd Lab Mix Puppy Lab German Shepherd Mix Character While temperament is again unpredictable with mix-breeds, both German Shepherds and Labradors are intelligent, active, and loyal dogs, so you can expect their offspring to share these traits. German Shepherds are very intelligent and have a natural protective instinct. They have a tendency to guard whatever they consider to be theirs. Labradors were originally bred as gun dogs, to retrieve the wild game of hunters. As such, they are very obedient and tend to be pleasers, and they like nothing more than spending time with their humans. As both breeds are intelligent and highly trainable, you can expect these characteristics to appear in a Sheprador. However, whether they will be a guard dog that can be aggressive with strangers, or a pleaser that is great with children, you will have to wait and see. While dogs are a mix of nature and nurture, if you want to take a Lab German Shepherd mix into a family home, or if you are a first-time dog owner, you will want to be careful about which individual dog you choose. Activity Levels However their personality turns out, you are going to have a dog with a lot of energy. These larger dogs that are used to working need around two hours of exercise each day. Their intelligence also means they get bored easily, and when they do get bored, they can have a tendency toward destructive behavior, which means digging and chewing. They do best with active owners with whom they can go walking, hiking, and running. Whether these dogs will like swimming is a coin toss. While Labradors love the water, German Shepherds are a bit more wary. But their size and adventurous nature mean they can be trained to love the water. So you have a good chance that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will be a swimmer. These dogs are loyal and love being around their humans. You will find them at their happiest and healthiest when you make them part of the family and shower them with love. Exercise Ideally, your Sheprador will need around two hours of exercise per day. This might be more than just a long walk, as their high energy levels mean they will like to run as well. They will enjoy tackling tough trails with you at their side, and the retriever nature of Labradors also means this breed is likely to enjoy a good game of fetch. Bear in mind that these dogs will need this level of exercise rain or shine, or they will become frustrated and start engaging in destructive behavior. This is not only bad for them in general, but can put excess pressure on their hips, which are also prone to issues. Intellectual Stimulation German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs are invariably highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train but also means they get bored very easily. When they do get bored, they are smart enough to find trouble, and you may come home to quite the scene. These dogs need to spend time with people to occupy their minds, and they also benefit from intellectually stimulating games. But expect them to make short work of these challenges, as they are chewers. You will be getting them new games quite often. Companionship Labradors need a lot of companionship, and this is a trait their offspring with German Shepherds are likely to share. Not only will they get bored and start acting up, but they can become depressed. Grooming Both German Shepherds and Labradors are shedders, so you can be sure their Sheprador offspring will be as well. This is just a fact of life with Shepradors. They will need to be brushed at least twice a week, and as often as once a day during the shedding seasons fall and spring. As well as brushing, invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner that has special functionality to help you pick up dog hair. These dogs are also likely to enjoy jumping up on the couch for a snuggle and a snooze. Invest in coverings and be sure your swanky vacuum cleaner has an attachment for upholstery. Their coat is not the only part of their grooming to attend to. You need to clean their teeth three times a week, with a brush or with dental treats. Finally, trim their nails every three months. This is both for their health and the health of your home, as their nails can damage your floors. For a big dog like this, it can be a good idea to take them to the vet to get their nails clipped. But if you feel confident to do this at home, check out our list of the best nail clippers. Diet German Shepherd Lab Mixes are big dogs that have lots of energy, but they also have a tendency toward obesity, which means they have to get their energy from good sources. This means high-quality protein and fats over carbohydrates. Preferably this means meals made from quality meats rather than meals or byproducts. When looking at the ingredient list, look for named meats at the first ingredient. Lab German Shepherd Mixes also benefit from novel proteins in their diet, as they can be prone to allergies. Dogs tend to develop allergies to the meats they eat the most, which often means beef and chicken. When they are puppies, Shepradors should be fed three times a day, and this should be cut down to two times a day from about four months of age. As a rule, dogs need 25 to 30 calories per pound of their weight per day, though you should watch their individual weight and energy level to see if you need to adjust their meals up or down. You can also check the label on your dog food to get a rough estimate of how much you should be feeding your Sheprador. Of course the amount will also vary depending on how often you exercise your dog. Known Health Problems While there is no limit to the number of health problems that a dog of any breed can develop, or they might not develop any at all, some dog breeds are more prone to some conditions than others. German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs have the potential to develop the health problems that are common in goth German Shepherds and Labradors. These include: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia — This is a condition where the hip and elbow joints do not develop normally and that can cause extreme pain and arthritis in later life. For more information check out our list of Glucosamine for Dogs. Progressive Retinal Atrophy — This is a group of degenerative diseases that affect the eyes and can lead to blindness. Shepradors are also prone to eat whatever is put in front of them, so you need to be conscious of what you are feeding them. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus — Poor diet can lead the stomach to dilate and expand, in turn leading to a twisting of the stomach that is life-threatening. It can block the flow of blood to the abdomen, leading to rupture of the stomach walls, and put pressure on the diaphragm thereby inhibiting the lungs. Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy — This is a condition that affects the spinal cord and leads to progressive weakness of the hind limbs, and eventually paralysis. Panosteitis — This is an inflammation of the outer surface of the long bones in the legs, resulting in a shifting lameness and making bones more susceptible to breaks. Allergies — Dogs can be born with allergies or develop them over time. Dogs often develop allergies if they eat the same foods consistently. Underactive Thyroid — The thyroid manages hormones, and an underactive thyroid is unable to secrete the required hormones. This can result in weight gain, lethargy, and cold intolerance. At this time, their energy levels will drop and they will need some changes in their diet and exercise. GSD Lab Mix Puppy But no matter how well trained they are, if they are left to get bored for too long, they can engage in some pretty destructive behavior, such as digging and chewing everything in sight. You have been forewarned. The highly assertive nature of German Shepherds means they do not respond well to domination training. They are likely to revolt when subjected to punishment. The best way to train a Labrador German Shepherd Mix is through positive reinforcement. Labradors are pleasers that love to make their humans happy. This means their offspring are also likely to feel the same way. So they will respond rapidly to training based on rewards for positive behavior. Deal with this behavior early, with specific training for dealing with children and strangers. They are very active and need lots of attention, so they need to be in households that support this. But they do great with adults and kids, so they can be a great family pet. Remember that German Shepherd Labrador Mixes need around two hours of exercise every day, so they need someone who can commit to that level of activity. But at the same time, it means they are the type of dog you can take on all of your adventures if you like hiking and trailing. They also need attention and stimulation throughout the day. If anyone in the house suffers with pet hair allergies, this is another reason Labrador German Shepherd Mixes are not the right dog for you, as they shed a lot. Consider something like a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle instead. Also, ask for medical records of the parents, to see what health conditions the pup might be prone to in the future. If you decide to adopt a mature dog, spend a bit of time with them to see what their temperament is like. History of the Breeds German Shepherd German Shepherds originated in Germany in the late 19th century as a sheep herding dog. But, because they are very intelligent, trainable, obedient, and strong, they have since moved into many different working roles including police, military, search and rescue, and disability assistance. German Shepherds can have a reputation for being aggressive, but they are more alert and wary than aggressive. They can have a tendency to become overprotective of family and territory. But if socialized and trained properly, this tendency should be highly manageable. German Shepherds are the second-most popular dog in the United States and the seventh-most popular dog in the United Kingdom. Labrador Labradors, also known as Labrador Retrievers, were initially used in Newfoundland as fishing dogs to retrieve fish that had gotten away. Because they are incredibly friendly but also intelligent and therefore easy to train, today Labradors are favored as disability assistance dogs, often helping individuals with blindness, ptsd, mobility issues and autism. Labradors are the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are intelligent and therefore easy to train, and loving and loyal, so they will quickly feel like part of the family. However, they do need a lot of exercise and attention, so adopting a Sheprador into your family is a commitment. German Shepherds have a reputation for being aggressive, but it is not really deserved. They are natural watchdogs and reserved around strangers, but they are not aggressive dogs that are likely to attack. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which means easy to control. Beagles, Poodles, Boxers, Golden Retrievers and Spaniels are all extremely friendly dogs as well, many specifically bred to be companions. They do best with active people or families who are full of people to love them. Like all dogs, they will do their best when they are cared for properly. This means training them appropriately, exercising them, keeping them mentally stimulated, and feeding them well. But these loyal pooches will repay your care and commitment with a lot of love and affection. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Characteristics Life Span As pointed out in the intro paragraph Shepradors generally live between 10 and 12 years, and sometimes they can reach the age of .However, they tend to be cautious with strangers, thanks to their German Shepherd ancestors. Caring Grooming: their shorthaired coat needs regular brushing: every day in the shedding season spring and autumn and three-to-five times a week in the rest of the year. Activity level With two highly energetic parent breeds, these dogs need an active life, so be ready to spend several hours a day keeping your pet busy. A Labrador Shepherd is generally 20 to 26 inches tall cm. Besides being active, you should have a large house, with a yard to provide her with enough space to move around. The Labrador Shepherd likes cold climates rather than hot weather, so be sure to have the ability to keep her comfortable all year. Further Reading Top 10 Dog Sports 2. They have it in their blood, and can successfully do police work, including searching, tracking, rescue, or guard work. If you care about your flowers and plants, you should also consider building an enclosure to keep your dog away from them. When you bring her inside, provide her with toys and games to keep her busy. She will enjoy any activity that stimulates her mind, such as dog puzzles or training sessions. The vacuum cleaner will be your new best friend German Shepherd Lab Mix is a double-coated breed, which means they have an undercoat next to the skin with longer hair over the top. Dogs from this crossbreed shed a lot, especially when the seasons change. If you want to keep her hair shiny and healthy, you should take time to brush her for at least minutes, three-to-five times a week. A consistent brushing schedule will help you reduce the amount of hair around the house. Besides brushing, you should include in your schedule: cleaning her ears once a week , brushing her teeth at least three times a week , and cleaning her eyes when needed. While this sounds like a lot, on the other hand, she only needs to take a bath about once a month. Exercising her on a concrete surface could help you keep her nails in good shape and reduce the number of visits to the vet. Always buy non-toxic toys, and substitute them with new ones as soon as they start deteriorating to avoid accidents. Your dog will need some strong toys, adapted to her age. Most hybrids tend to have a balanced personality, but as your puppy could be the result of more crosses , she may not inherit the exact characteristics you want in a dog; your future dog is prone to a series of health issues, caused by her bloodline. Obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases and diabetes are a lot more common with these dogs, but she could also develop epilepsy, skin allergies, bloat or cardiovascular diseases, these being common among Labradors and German Shepherds. From my point of view, most estimations work well for average dogs. You should buy your dog from a responsible breeder In most cases, a Labrador Shepherd has high potential and is a great candidate for the title of the perfect family dog. However, as mentioned before, hybrid dogs could have unpredictable coat colors, personalities, and health issues, so buying your puppy from a reliable source is as close as you can get to a clear image about your future dog. Generally, this hybrid can be 26 inches 66 cm tall and can weigh up to 88 pounds 40 kg. Taking into account the height and weight of its German Shepherd and Labrador mix parents, this crossbreed is a medium to a large-sized dog. So measurements can still vary more or less from that range. Good news for you! It will shower you with love and loyalty, and make you proud with its intelligence and playfulness. Do you think you can deal with this? Shepradors has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, but some of them can reach this age. We all want our pets to live longer and spend more years with us, so read this section to avoid and better prepare against genetic illnesses. Conclusion As you could see above, when buying a Sheprador you get the best of two great breeds. I think that this mix of German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever makes for the perfect family dog — kind, loyal, patient with children, and protective. However, they have endless energy and require a lot of time and attention, which makes them suitable for active families only. So are you ready to handle such a dog? Leave us a comment below and tell us about your personal experience with this unique crossbreed. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. But I adopted my little Hank recently and he seems both very playful and very cuddly. He likes to snuggle a lot but is very active too. Just wondering if I should expect him to go crazy one of these days? 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 German Sheprador Highlights The German Sheprador is a mixed breed dog. The main colors of German Shepradors are black, white, red, cream, blue, and grey. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. While they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job. Many German Shepradors absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also help to keep them cool during hot summer months. German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. Protective in nature, they will alert when strangers approach. They can easily become board, depressed, and frustrated, which will result in unwanted behaviors. German Sheprador History The German Sheprador dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing German Shepherds and Labradors in North America, possibly in the s. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems that affect many purebreds as well as create an ultimate family companion and watchdog. They continued to create German Shepradors as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the German Sheprador got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the dog for you. Check your local shelters, look up German Sheprador rescues, or check with breed-specific German Shepherd and Labrador rescues, as they sometimes help to re-home mixed breeds. German Sheprador Size As the German Sheprador is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between German Shepherd and Labrador parents, you can expect the German Sheprador to be on the large side. Most weigh in at 60 to 95 pounds and range in height from 20 to 27 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. German Sheprador Personality German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. However, once they befriend you, you have a friend for life. These pups hail from a line of two working parents. Their German Shepherd parents regularly work as military, police, and guard dogs, while their Labrador Retriever parents have jobs as hunting and guide dogs. German Shepradors like to work and need to have a job to do, whether big or small. Give them a sense of purpose, and this dog will earn their keep ten fold. They are highly trainable, and thrive on positive reenforcement. Do not leave them alone for long periods. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. German Shepradors are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one hour long walk per day with several shorter walks mixed in. Hiking and other adventurous activities are also recommended. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as this mixed breed is prone to tartar build-up. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility with its one-inch jumps. Crate and kennel training should start in puppyhood. German Sheprador Feeding An ideal German Sheprador diet should be formulated for a large breed with high energy. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. They usually have medium length, dense coats, and while they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job and bathing is recommended every few months with a mild shampoo. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Their double coats do shed quite a bit. You will definitely want a vacuum on hand. You will need it. Have you tried robot vacuums? See if the Eufy RoboVac is right for you! Their double coat gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather. Many of these dogs absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also helps to keep them cool during hot summer months. Keep in mind they are an indoor dog and need to live indoors. Like all dogs, however, German Shepradors need to be trained how to behave around children and vice versa. 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. Learn more about this awesome breed by reading about their parent breeds the German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever. German Sheprador Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for German Shepradors because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or Labrador Retriever breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:.