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The mix will vary from pup to pup depending on which of their parents they take after. Sheepadoodles enjoyed a massive boost in popularity when Meryl Davis and her partner Fedor Andreev, both figure skaters, showed off their pet Sheepadoodle, Bilbo Tootie-Rose Baggins on social media. They inherit the best of both parents, making for a remarkable pooch! More about the Poodle Poodles were extremely popular as pets in the past, especially for upper-class ladies. This was due to the small Poodle size which meant that carrying them around was incredibly easy. Interestingly, they were first bred in Germany to help hunt waterfowl. Their popularity has led many dog breeders to conduct experimental crossbreeding, and one of those successful breeding programs was with the Old English Sheepdog a. Poodle More about the Old English Sheepdog Just like the name suggests, Old English Sheepdogs became popular in the s with farmers who used them to herd sheep and to help control other animals on the farm. For centuries training was for rather heavy tasks around the farm. Sheepadoodles have a fascinating history, as do their parents! But why this combination? As mentioned above, first generation Sheepadoodles inherit the intelligence and active nature of sheepdogs, and the low shedding and friendly nature of the Poodle. They can be very gentle and also tend to be quiet around little ones, which is an excellent trait, especially if your baby needs a nap! The perfect pooch indeed! Thankfully not. Even though they are large, you can make it work. If you live in an apartment, you might be pushing it, but if you commit to some serious exercise every day your new furry friend will be just fine! Standard Sheepadoodles are usually medium to large. As mentioned above the standard-sized Sheepadoodle grows to about 60 to 80 pounds 18 to 30 Kg and a maximum of 16 to 22 inches 40 to 55 cm in height. Sometimes, if the Sheepdog parent is huge, then the Sheepadoodle pup can grow quite a bit larger than other pups. One example is Zammy the therapy dog, which you can watch in this video: Also thrown into the mix are Mini Sheepadoodles that are a mix of Mini Poodles and Standard Sheepdogs. They measure under 20 inches 51 cm in height and weigh between 24 to 44 pounds 11 to 20 kg. Miniature Sheepadoodles are also sometimes called a Micro Sheepadoodle. Mini Sheepadoodles are in demand far and wide due to their utterly adorable good looks and charismatic charm. Mini Sheepadoodle 5 Hey Good Looking! Sheepadoodles have sturdy and solid builds, with square or rounded faces and elongation at the snout. The skull has a broad look and appears dome shaped. They also have signature gorgeous low hanging ears, and their eyes are small and set between medium length hair. Coats can be anywhere between straight and curly. Their different colors also make them a hit with potential owners. Sheepadoodles are born black, white or both. Their colors are separated in well-defined spots that can appear randomly on any part of the body. This makes for some adorable looking puppies, some of whom almost look like Panda bears, which make them even more endearing than they already are. Some Sheepadoodles come in white and red, but these usually cost more. There are also Sheepadoodles that are entirely brown or grey, but these are relatively rare. The parents normally determine the color of the pups. As mentioned in the first paragraph the Sheepadoodles have an average lifespan of about 12 to 15 years. How healthy are they? In general, the Sheepadoodle is a robust dog since it comes from two different purebred dogs. However, they may inherit some tendencies from their parents genetically. However, not all Sheepadoodles are hypoallergenic as it depends on the genes they inherit from their parents. They tend to have a short and curly coat like their Poodle parent and as we said before shed very minimally. Trimming the hairs around their ears is also another thing you can do if you want to help prevent ear infections. Watch how training takes place in this video: They can also be taught to be watchdogs as they can recognize strangers and be trained to bark at them. Training is pretty simple and easy to carry out. Sheepadoodles should have a diet that consists of high-quality kibbles. Once in a blue moon, some wet food is a great idea but take it easy on this one as it may lead to your Sheepadoodle becoming overweight. However, being a designer dog, they are allowed into the following organizations:. They've become more popular in recent years because of their super-friendly personalities, low-shedding coats , and teddy bear-like appearance. Because the sheepadoodle is not a pure breed, there are no hard and fast rules about the dog's size, coloring, and appearance. However, the most common coat you'll find is a black-and-white patchwork pattern. The size of a sheepadoodle varies depending on whether the Old English sheepdog was crossed with a standard poodle , miniature poodle , or toy poodle. Appearance The sheepadoodle can tend toward one parent or the other in appearance—some will have more of the square face of an Old English sheepdog and others will have a more poodle-like domed head. But nearly all sheepadoodles share the patchwork of black and white markings that sometimes give them the appearance of a panda. These black and white markings can sometimes fade into gray similar to an Old English sheepdog's coloring as the sheepadoodle ages. On rare occasions, a sheepadoodle will be red and white. Sheepadoodles bred from mini poodles and toy poodles will be smaller. As with most poodle mixes affectionately termed "doodles" , the coat of a sheepadoodle can tend more to be straight or more curly—and it's generally hard to tell until the puppy gets a little older. Sheepadoodles are often compared to Bernedoodles , which are a mix between a poodle and a Bernese mountain dog. Bernedoodles have a similar giant teddy bear vibe: big fluffy paws; shaggy faces; and furry, floppy ears. However, Bernedoodles come in a greater variety of colors and share more of the Bernese mountain dog's personality traits. Temperament The sheepadoodle owes a lot of her easygoing temperament to the Old English sheepdog, a good-natured, shaggy breed that was developed to help bring cattle and sheep to market. Because of this cross breeding, there can be a pretty wide variety of personality traits depending on the individual dog. They're exceptionally playful and sweet, and they enjoy the company of other dogs. While they might alert you to a passing stranger with a bark , they're typically a little more mellow than breeds developed specifically for guarding the home. While Old English sheepdogs can at times be independent-minded, poodles are typically very eager to please their parents by sitting on cue and learning tricks. Sheepadoodles also inherit a great deal of intelligence from their poodle forebears and have a working dog's herding instincts from the Old English sheepdog side. Living Needs Unless you opt for a mini or a toy mix, sheepadoodles are typically large dogs that will do best in a house with a fenced yard. If you live in an apartment , you should be ready to provide your sheepadoodle with regular exercise. She recommendss finding ways to integrate your dog into your regular activity: bringing them on your runs , neighborhood walks , and hikes through the woods. With their thick coats, sheepadoodles are excellent dogs for cold-weather climates. In warmer climates, Choczynski Johnson says, their owners can trim their fur a bit shorter and make sure they can relax in cool indoor spaces with plenty of water. However, given the sheepadoodles' herding background, they occasionally have a tendency to try rounding up small animals and children, so keep an eye on them at dog parks that allow small dogs and large dogs to mingle. Care While no dog are fully hypoallergenic , the combination of the Old English sheepdog and the poodle results in a very low-shedding coat, even in the first generation. Because of this, sheepadoodles can be a good fit for people who are allergic to dogs. For sheepadoodle grooming, you'll want to keep her coat in great condition, brush her frequently during the week , and have her bathed and trimmed every 8—12 weeks. You'll want to clean her ears regularly of wax and debris and trim her nails , as you would for any dog. Because they become so attached to their families, some sheepadoodles can develop separation anxiety if they're left alone for too long. Bloom suggests using positive reinforcement training from the moment your sheepadoodle puppy gets home. You can gradually increase from second increments until the puppy starts to realize it's not a big deal. If you have to leave your dog at home alone for long hours, look into options like doggy day care or a dedicated walker. As with all breeds that go from tiny puppy to large dog, it's important to start sheepadoodle training with the adult dog in mind: Don't allow or encourage your puppy to do anything you wouldn't want a pound sheepadoodle doing a year from now. Health One potential advantage to a mixed breed dog is hybrid vigor, the idea of relatively lower occurrence of genetic diseases cropping up in offspring from two vastly different genetic lines. Some scientists, however, dispute that hybrid dogs are inherently healthier than their purebred brethren. Whether you're looking for a sheepadoodle or purebred pup, consider a breeder with an excellent track record who does health screening for both parents. That being said, sheepadoodles by all accounts are relatively healthy dogs that live from 12—15 years. As with all large dogs, it's important to know the symptoms of bloat , a condition in which a dog's stomach fills with gas and expands or twists to cut off blood flow to organs. This also helps your puppy learn how to have some independent time and get mental stimulation while eating. History The origins are the sheepadoodle are murky at best: While humans have been cross-breeding dogs as long as there have been breeds, the popularity of sheepadoodles as a special hybrid of their own really only took off in the past decade or so. Some articles indicate that the "doodle" naming convention started in , which is possibly when the mixing of poodles to create a line of low-shedding dogs started to take off. The sheepadoodle's ancestors, however, have long historical roots. Old English sheepdogs were developed in the west of England as drovers, or dogs that helped livestock move along the dusty roads to market. Their tails were docked to indicate that they were working dogs this also kept their tails away from wayward hooves , giving this breed the nickname "bobtail. The curly coat that protected them from chilly water and their superb intelligence made them excellent retrievers. Fun Facts One thing is undeniable: People really, really love their sheepadoodles. Popular sheepadoodle ambassadors on social media include Otis , a big fluffy boy with a small sidekick named Sully; Zammy , a giant floof who also volunteers as a children's hospital therapy dog; and Millie , a mini sheepadoodle who lives in New York and loves to smile for the camera. Bunny the "talking" sheepadoodle is a TikTok star, known for her funny button-speech conversations. The mixed breed took another leap in popularity when Olympic figure skaters Meryl Davis and Fedor Andreev announced that they had adopted a mini sheepadoodle named Bilbo. Was this page helpful? Sheepadoodle Highlights Sheepadoodles are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Old English Sheepdog or Poodle parents. The main colors of Sheepadoodles are a mix of black and white, but they can also be solid black and, in some cases, gray. Sheepadoodles tend to be a great choice for allergy sufferers since this mix is considered a low to non-shedder. They will need to be groomed roughly every eight weeks and must be brushed two to three times a week. Sheepadoodles will need daily walks and games of fetch for exercise. These smart pups will also need to play mentally stimulating games to prevent them from being destructive due to boredom. Their ability to emotionally connect with their owners has made the Sheepadoodle a popular therapy and emotional support dog. However, their need to be around their owners so much makes it difficult to leave them home alone for long periods of time, and they may require a dog walker or doggy daycare. Sheepadoodles are affectionate and even-tempered with children and are just as happy being around kids as they are being around adults. Sheepadoodles get along well with other animals if introduced gradually, calmly, and at an early age. They are naturally intelligent and very social animals and will enjoy the company of other pets in their household. Even though the Sheepadoodle 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 right mixed breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Sheepadoodle rescues, or check with breed specific Poodle or Old English Sheepdog rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Sheepadoodle Size As the Sheepadoodle is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That being said, the Old English Sheepdog parent can be mixed with a standard, miniature, or toy poodle parent, which will affect their size. Seeing as the most common Sheepadoodle pup is one with a Standard Poodle parent, you can expect the dog to be on the larger side. Most Sheepadoodles weigh in at 60 to 80 pounds and range in height from 16 to 22 inches at the shoulder. That said, the other varieties like the toy and mini Sheepadoodles, will be smaller in size. They will enjoy snuggling with you on the couch just as much as they would enjoy going outside for a brisk walk. Some Sheepadoodles will have acquired their herding drive from their Old English Sheepdog parent and will need to burn off energy with plenty of playtime outdoors. They are rather athletic and love to swim, play fetch, and please their owners by learning new tricks. Sheepadoodle puppies are often a bit boisterous and will require training at an early age. Both Poodles and Old English Sheepdogs are known to be very intelligent breeds, making the Sheepadoodle easy to train. They respond best to positive reinforcement and treats as rewards. These obedient dogs will also love to be taught a variety of tricks, especially because they need to be mentally stimulated. Their ability to emotionally connect with their owners has made the Sheepadoodle not only a very loyal companion, but they have become a popular therapy and emotional support dog. They adore children and adults alike, and will quickly become a wonderful addition to any family. However, their need to be around their owners so much makes it difficult to leave your Sheepadoodle home alone for long periods of time, and they may require a dog walker or doggy daycare. Sheepadoodle Health The Sheepadoodle may be a mixed breed, but they are still predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Poodle and Old English Sheepdog face. While most are generally healthy, many can inherit conditions that both parent breeds have, which is why it is very important to maintain good care and attend regular veterinary checkups. Some of the more common health problems Sheepadoodles suffer from include: Bloat. But this is pretty speculative. Because it all started with their parent breeds, the Poodle and Old English Sheepdog. Although this herding dog is believed to have originated in the west of England. Interestingly enough the first documentation of the dog comes not from the written record, but from the art world. Many believe that an 18th century painting by Thomas Gainsborough features a dog resembling the Old English Sheepdog. This breed was used for generations as a hard working, herding dog. But today they have found a firm place as companions in family homes too. Some believe it be descended from French ancestors while others think that its ancestral roots lay in Germany. The poodle comes in three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. The Standard, most often used to create the Sheepdog Poodle mix, is the largest of the three and was originally used in the hunting field. Like the Old English Sheepdog, the Standard Poodle is also now commonly found living happily in homes around the world. Fun facts about Sheepdog Poodle mix The Sheepadoodle is best known for a pretty amazing disguise — as a panda! The markings on this giant cutie really stand out from the crowd. These easy-going fur balls are usually black and white in appearance, often having one or both eyes ringed by a large patch of black fur. Topping off their cuddly look is an adorable, dark, prominent nose. Sheepadoodle coats are often mainly white in front and black on the tail end. Some pups are nearly all white or all black. Often with random splotches of the opposite color. Then again, there are some adorable Sheepadoodle full grown who resemble a giant tub of yummy chocolate chip ice cream! Sheepadoodle Size Standard poodles max out at around 65 pounds and 21 inches in height. Old English Sheepdogs stand on average around two feet in height. Males reach approximately 22 inches-plus, while females stand around 21 inches and over. These large dogs carry a good amount of weight on their frame, with anything between 60 and pounds the norm. A standard Sheepdog Poodle mix could be anywhere within these limits. And his temperament can vary too. Sheepdog Poodle mix temperament The Sheepadoodle personality will be influenced by the genetic makeup of the Poodle and the Old English Sheepdog. In an ideal world, every cross breed would express only the very best qualities of each parent. But in reality as we know from our own lives! The Old English Sheepdog is praised for its gentle nature and adaptability. The large breed can be a mellow housedog, but these are big dogs that enjoy exploring and regular walks. Sheepdogs greatly enjoy being included in family time and along with the Poodle can do well with children provided that they are socialized and trained early. Old English Sheepdogs do not relish being separated from their humans and they may become destructive if left by themselves for extended periods of time. Like the Poodle, the Old English Sheepdog is a fast learner and he is an obedient dog. Poodles rank near the top in canine intelligence and are highly trainable. They enjoy pleasing their owners and retain an alert sensitivity which means they will tell you when strangers approach. Poodles have a reputation for being high strung but in fact they have naturally low levels of aggression. Training your Sheepadoodle Early socialization and positive reinforcement training techniques will go a long way. Punishment based training is not recommended and can be dangerous since it can actually mask signs of troubling behavior. Most Sheepadoodle owners describe their pups as sociable, playful, people-oriented, and displaying a sweet disposition. It is important to remember Sheepadoodle temperament could be on either end of the spectrum, or a mixture of both. Large, rambling Sheepdogs need an outlet for their physical nature. They are big, enthusiastic dogs and require proper training to curb what could easily turn into rowdy, unwanted behavior. For example, some may try to herd smaller animals or children! Poodles maintain moderate levels of energy and like to keep busy, especially mentally. They will also need company. This is not usually a dog that will be happy to be left during alone all day while you work. But keep them busy and company, and they have a good chance of being a charming companion. Your Sheepadoodle can be expected to be at risk from some of the same health issues as his parents. Both breeds are well structured. Their legs are not too short. And their muzzles are a good length. These are important features in any puppy. But there are diseases associated with each breed. Make sure your breeder has used parents health tested against the conditions common to each of them. Old English Sheepdogs health Hip dysplasia, eye disease, and hypothyroidism are all issues to be aware of with Old English Sheepdogs. Hip dysplasia is not uncommon in large breeds. It can affect one or both hips, and cause pain and stiffness. Both the Old English Sheepdog and Poodle parents should have good hip scores. Progressive retinal atrophy is an inherited eye condition in which the retina deteriorates leading to vision loss. A dog with PRA may eventually lose both day and nighttime vision. Blind dogs are capable of adapting, but this is a disease that can and should be avoided. Unfortunately Poodles are prone to dermatological issues including sebaceous adenitis , a condition affecting the glands that lubricate the hair follicles and skin. The condition is frequently misdiagnosed as hypothyroidism, complicating treatment. What you can do is make sure they are each health tested for the problems that may affect their breed to reduce the chance of this being inherited by your pup. How long do Sheepadoodles live? Old English Sheepdogs live around 11 years and Standard Poodles 12 years. Given the encouraging fact that mixed breed dogs tend to live a little longer, the average Sheepadoodle lifespan should therefore hopefully be in excess of 12 years. Feeding your Sheepdog Poodle mix Your Sheepadoodle is likely to be quite a large dog. And large breed puppies need special attention when it comes to their diet. These can be exacerbated by rapid growth. You also need to be aware of the potential for bloat, which may also be reduced by giving smaller meals and helping your pup to slow down their pace. Choose a large breed puppy food, and when they reach the cut off for your chosen brand swap them over to a large breed adult food too. How curly will depend on how much the puppy takes after the poodle parent. Old English Sheepdogs have a lovely long shaggy coat that can rightfully be described as high maintenance. Busy modern owners often lack the time or money needed to maintain a healthy, robust coat. A poodle coat is a little different. But still requires quite a bit of care. It sheds less fur than a looser coat It need regular clipping unless you are a very keen groomer Poodles are a popular pet choice for people sensitive to dog hair. This is due to their reputation for a hypoallergenic coat. However, they are not completely allergen free. And neither are their mixes. And part of the reason for that reputation is the way that the poodle fur grows. Shedding and curly hair Poodles do shed , but what happens next is the cause for their hypoallergenic reputation. Curly dog hair tends to stay trapped in the coat as it sheds. And Poodles do not have a high-maintenance undercoat. This leaves less hair on your carpet. But there can be problems. The shed hair is still there on the dog. And that trapped hair can result in matting. Unless brushed daily — and thoroughly! No guarantees for allergy sufferers So, there is no guarantee your Poodle mix will have a hypoallergenic coat. Your puppy will probably have looser curls than a Poodle. These are easier to groom. But they may have tighter curls like a Poodle Either way, the chances are they will need clipping professionally. A trip to the groomer every few weeks will usually include a bath. Which is good as Sheepadoodles may drool! A grooming routine Puppies groomed from an early age are much happier and easy to manage. Be sure to get them used to being groomed from an early age regardless. And of course you always have the option of keeping their coat clipped short, for an easier to manage regime. Do Sheepadoodles make good family pets? The Sheepadoodle is a bold choice when it comes to a family pet. Due to their potentially large size and potentially rather difficult to manage coat. However, with great socialization and diligent health testing of their parents, it is possible to turn this fluffy bear dog into a good family pet. Poodles and Old English Sheepdogs alike are not overly pushy with people, but are still very loyal and loving to their families. Rescuing a Sheepdog Poodle mix Sheepadoodles do come into dog shelters and rescue societies from time to time. There are pros and cons to rescuing but many people find it to be a good experience. Make sure you get plenty of information from the rescue center. A good rescue center will have temperament tested your dog. If you have lots of time and love to give, you are doing a wonderful thing by giving a homeless dog a place to lay their head. However, your best for finding an adult dog with this cross bred background is to contact your local Old English Sheepdog and Poodle rescues separately. While their name would imply otherwise, these dogs were first bred to herd cattle, not sheep. It arrived in the United States in the s where it became a popular show dog. In fact, at the time, five of the ten richest families in the United States were breeding and showing the Old English Sheepdog. 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. Army in creating a new breed of military dog. On top of that, the gender of the puppy and the genetics of the parents play important factors as well. Sheepadoodles come in three main sizes—micro or toy , mini, and standard. A Micro Sheepadoodle will weigh in at less than 25 pounds and stand roughly inches tall. A Mini Sheepadoodle is one step bigger at pounds and inches in height. The largest of the three, the Standard Sheepadoodle, will weigh approximately pounds or even more! Their fur can range anywhere from straight, like the Old English Sheepdog to curly like the Poodle and usually is of longer length. A minimum of brushing once per week is required for Sheepadoodles, with the ideal frequency being every other day if not every day for more curly-haired dogs. Are Sheepadoodles Hypoallergenic? Do Sheepadoodles Shed? While this can be true, due to the unpredictability of genetics, there is no guarantee that any particular dog, or litter of dogs will be hypoallergenic. So an F1BB Sheepadoodle .However, due to the genetic diversity from crossing these two breeds, the result may be a lower chance of developing these inherited health concerns. 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. Due to their calm and trustworthy nature, they do well with children. Thanks for the independence they get from their Old English Sheepdog heritage, they are a bit harder to train than other varieties of Doodles, but still are only moderate difficulty thanks to their intelligence and good nature. Sheepadoodle Dog Breed Activity Requirements: Due to their good nature, Sheepadoodles may not always pester you for exercise. However, they are definitely much happier with ample amounts of it. Black, white, brown, gray, merle Suitable for: Active families, singles, apartments, houses with yards Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, hard-working, sociable, loyal This designer breed is curious, energetic, playful, and loyal. Their sociable personality makes them perfect family pets. They can also get along well in a farm setting. This mixed breed has not been in existence for long, but their parent breeds have. The Old English Sheepdog was developed in the 18th century, and the Poodle was developed in the 15th century. Here is everything that you need to know about the offspring of these two breeds, the Sheepadoodle. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Sheepadoodle Puppies A post shared by Doodles Vibes doodlesvibes Sheepadoodle puppies are adorable but they grow quickly. There is not much time to learn about this breed once you bring them home because of their quick growth. These dogs are great at hunting, agility , and farm work. They also get along well in family environments. Their energy can become troublesome if these dogs are not exercised daily, though. These good-natured dogs are extremely sociable and friendly. They bond deeply with their human companions and act as protectors whenever necessary. Their easygoing personalities make them easily adaptable to a variety of different circumstances and situations. They are natural herders, which may be evident when they are around children or other animals. Although loyal and sociable, Sheepadoodles can be extremely independent and somewhat stubborn. Therefore, obedience training and a regular exercise schedule are important. The bigger the secured yard that they have to spend time in during the day, the happier that they seem to be. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They may try to herd younger kids, so supervision is usually a good idea until the kids are old and big enough to maintain control of the dog. They are protective of all family members, even the kids, but not aggressively so. These dogs can get along with other dogs if socialization is made a priority while they are puppies. They should be introduced to other dogs early on in life and have an opportunity to explore places like dog parks, where they can learn to properly interact with other animals. Their prey could result in chasing when it comes to being around smaller animals, like cats and squirrels. Here is everything that you need to know about feeding, exercising, training, and grooming your pet Sheepadoodle. They can eat up to 4 cups of commercial dry food each day, depending on how much exercise they get. If unlimited food is available, they can easily eat more than what they require for good health. They should be fed two or three regulated meals each day. These dogs require high-protein nutrition to properly fuel their bodies. Look for food that includes chicken or beef as the first ingredient, and avoid food that includes excessive fillers and artificial ingredients. Fresh berries and veggies such as carrots can be offered occasionally as snacks. Clean water should be available 24 hours a day, both inside and outdoors. Walks of at least an hour each day should be a priority whenever the weather permits. Time spent in a secured yard to play, run, and explore every day is also recommended. When the weather does not allow for outdoor exercise, indoor activities such as hide-and-seek, chase, and time playing with puzzle toys should be offered. Otherwise, nothing should ever take the place of long walks to expel energy. Training should take place in a quiet environment where there will be no distractions. Treats and clickers can help ensure that each training session is successful. After basic obedience commands are learned, training can be practiced in social settings regularly to ensure that the obedience is maintained. The Sheepadoodle can also successfully learn how to hunt waterfowl, herd farm animals, and complete agility courses. The younger the dog is when training begins, the more successful that training is bound to be. Their coats should be brushed daily to get rid of debris that is picked up outside and to keep the fur from tangling up. Some Sheepadoodles require trimming once a month or so to keep the fur from growing over the eyes or getting too long to effectively brush. A de-shedding comb can be used during the spring and summer months to keep shedding to a minimum. Sheepadoodles should get enough outdoor exercise to keep their nails naturally trimmed. Their teeth can be brushed regularly to ensure healthy gums and clean breath. Alternatively, dental chews can be offered. Regular visits to the veterinarian, proper exercise, and a healthy diet can help stave off these problems as your pooch ages. Minor Conditions. These dogs offer perks like non shedding fur, a loving and playful temperament, and a teddy bear face! Sheepadoodle Temperament Your average Sheepadoodle is very bright — with a high emotional IQ as well. After all, they are half Poodle — an intelligent breed! These dogs are known to be very playful. Their eagerness to play, socialize, with a love of children. They enjoy a bit of rough housing, making them a great family dog! These dogs are very affectionate, and love to be around and please their owners. F1 means his dad was purebred Standard Poodle, and his mom was purebred Sheepdog. Our situation: we have 4 kids, ages 4 through .We live on a half acre, with a good sized fenced in backyard. I work from home. Zion stopped growing around 75lbs — making him a giant sheepadoodle. Do not underestimate how much brute strength he has! The standard Sheepadoodle dog is between lbs, depending on the size of the parents. The dogs also can be bred in medium and toy size. Think carefully before committing to the giant Sheepadoodle- a smaller sized dog is easier to handle and might be best for you! Look carefully for a business that treats the dogs they breed as family pets. These breeders will take proper steps to hand over healthy, happy Sheepadoodle puppies to you! We spent almost an hour on FaceTime when it came time to pick out our pup from an East Coast breeder, finding out specific temperaments of our pup. I mean!! Can you handle that cuteness?? Training Sheepadoodle Puppies We quickly realized this was like having a toddler again! Two Toddlers: We crate trained him right away highly recommend for your own sanity! We kept his puppy crate in our walk-in pantry, with a blanket over it to make him feel cozy. I like this puppy crate because you can divide it in the middle, so a puppy still feels cozy and safe! The bottom is a tray that slides out. We could clean accidents easily without a mess. The crate helped set order, gave Zion somewhere safe to go, and made house training easier. Sheepadoodle puppies are particularly easy to house train. Buy the crate we used for Zion as a pup: Have you ever seen a crate big enough for a full size 75lb dog? This is our current XL crate that we bought after Zion outgrew his puppy crate around 10 months old. It is huge! As a home decor blogger this crate was cramping my style! Crate Training Schedule Keep a blanket over the crate at all times. His first few weeks his schedule was: In his crate around pm, we left him there all night Took him out at 6am to potty in the yard Breakfast and lots of playtime. Sheepadoodles puppies nip more than other breeds because they are herding dogs. These dogs have a natural instinct to nip to keep their sheep in line! For the first few months, Zion would follow around our 5 year old Leo and nip his clothes and hands all day. This was frustrating for us! Thankfully, Zion no longer nips, but it was work to break the habit and took almost the full first year. Serious redirecting by constantly giving him his favorite bully sticks to chew instead every time he wants to nip you. To a herding dog, the desire to herd animals is also the desire to herd any humans in the house, too. Luckily, sheepadoodles live to please and you can train them to control this urge! Learning the basic commands like sit and stay is a breeze with a sheepadoodle. This is the first step to controlling their instinct to herd. Direct the dog to stop and sit when they want to herd. Stop the herding before it begins is the most helpful. Sternly intervene when you see the dog wanting to herd each time. Once the dog understands herding is disapproved by his owner, you can make sure not running after kids and others becomes a habit. Do Sheepadoodles Shed? No, Sheepadoodle dogs are not supposed to shed. I was NOT pleased. Zion goes every 6 weeks to the groomer for a bath and cut, and every 3 weeks he goes in for just a bath. Regular baths and trims keeps their teddy bear look. Sometimes we bathe him ourselves. I LOVE and swear by this whitening shampoo to keep the white in his coat super bright white instead of off white or dingy. I just started buying the bigger jar here to save money on it, since we use it regularly. After a recommendation from my brother in law, we bought this high quality pin brush off Amazon — night and day from the cheap pet store plastic brushes! If you read the reviews you will know why. For his mats specifically, we like this slicker brush. You can go back and forth on the mats quickly and it untangles them without Zion even noticing. The pet store brushes were getting stuck in the actual mat and pull. Between those two brushes, you will never have to buy your dog another brush again! Splurge on the good brushes once, than buy a lifetime of cheapies from the pet store. For his teeth, our vet suggested giving him Greenies every few days to help with tartar control and his breath. It takes him a few minutes to chew them and he enjoys the taste. This guy needs serious speed and playtime. If the kids are outside playing, he wants to be there. He is all about that frisbee life! Any sort of high energy, running fast and playing keep away with the ball — Sheepadoodles live for that. This toy is indestructible and flies like a Frisbee! A good game of tug-a-wore followed by some fetch with the Chuck It Toy is favorite activity. It comes with little bags that are attached to the scooper, so the poop is collected directly into the bag. We recently started attaching old grocery bags to the scooper; they work just as well. We are his people and he just wants to be in the same room as us. That is usually his priority! We taught our kids how to be respectful. But the truth is, Zion really just wants to play with the kids at allllll times. This playfulness is a trait of Sheepadoodles and why we were so attracted to the dogs to begin with! Zion has attached himself to our oldest child more than anyone. He sleeps with him and he likes to come pick up the kids from school in the afternoons- mostly so he can sit in his lap all the way home. His love for him is heartwarming stuff! Pros and Cons Of Owning a Sheepadoodle Pros Extremely social He loves to interact and be near us Smart Easy to train, so quick to be housebroken Emotionally smart High emotional IQ so he picks up on our feelings — would make a popular therapy dog Hypoallergenic, no shedding Great temperament Playful, loving, gentle, confident, and obedient! No obnoxious barking, whining or anxiety. Your Sheepadoodle will be sad, lonely and destructive left alone. They need to be around people! Expensive grooming and regular upkeep to keep the fur from matting Herding The dog will have to be trained out of this instinctual behavior Nipping Another instinctual behavior to deal with Some chewing issues — not a lot Our Sheepadoodle has been trained to leave our home alone, but he did go to town on my rug as a pup. We have his favorite bully sticks out for him. These have been his favorite chews since day 1 and they last a little while, which is nice. Life Span Did You Know? A Sheepadoodle can be an F1 or an F1b. F1 Sheepadoodles are a first generation, which means their parents are an Old English Sheepdog and a Poodle. They are often confused, at least in name, with Shepadoodles, but they are not the same dog. Shepadoodles are a cross between a Poodle and a German Shepherd. Sheepadoodles are beautiful dogs inside and out. They tend to be extremely friendly and absolutely love their families. Because they are mixed with a Poodle, there is a chance that their coat will be low-shedding. Their kind disposition and energetic personality make them a good fit for families. Although they are not purebred dogs, and therefore are not recognized by the AKC, they are recognized by other dog registries and clubs. In addition to making a great family pet, Sheepadoodles also make great therapy dogs. A well-socialized Sheepadoodle is an intelligent and active dog who tends to be naturally friendly, calm, and sociable. They tend to get along well with other dogs, pets, and children. Sheepadoodles tend to be expressive and intuitive. They seem to innately know how to be gentle and quiet with younger children. They are a combination of a companion and working dog that loves their family and is devoted to them. This dog breed is moderately adaptable. Due to their exercise needs, they tend to be a better fit for homes with large yards. They can adapt to apartment living, as long as they get plenty of serious exercise every day. They tend to do best in moderate and cooler climates, but can adapt to other types. As with most dogs, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because they love their families, have a lot of energy, and get bored easily, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Because the Sheepadoodle is a mixed breed, they can inherit none of the health issues of their parent breeds or can inherit the health issues from one or both of them. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large dog breed, a Sheepadoodle is also at risk for bloat like their parents. Bloat in dogs can quickly become dangerous, especially if gastric torsion occurs ie: the stomach flips. The Sheepadoodle is a highly intelligent dog that is eager to please their owners. This tends to make them obedient, fast learners who are a good fit for owners of any experience level. Although they are alert and natural watchdogs, well-socialized Sheepadoodles tend to be quiet and will have to be trained to bark at strangers. Because they seek the approval of their owners, they tend to be sensitive. Harsh scolding or tones can hurt your bond with them and could cause them to be withdrawn or unresponsive to training. They respond best to positive ongoing training methods that are consistent. The low-shedding coat is one of the reasons why there are so many Poodle mixes. Sheepadoodle coats can vary from straight to curly and coat colors can be any combination of those common in Poodles. This means you can have a Sheepadoodle that is black, brown, gray, white, or a mix of colors. They only need to be bathed as needed, so having it done while at the groomer is usually a good fit. Floppy ears are more likely to trap dirt, debris, and moisture, which makes them more prone to ear infections. Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. It is also one of the most preventable. By implementing good dental care for dogs early on, you can decrease the tartar buildup that causes gum disease and tooth decay. A Sheepadoodle is a high-energy dog breed. They need plenty of exercise and structured exercise routines to be happy and healthy. Their high energy and intelligence mean they need a lot of daily exercise and plenty of mental stimulation to avoid boredom. Giving them a job to do can help satisfy their working dog tendencies. They also tend to love water, so going swimming with your dog can be a good activity. Because they are also sociable, taking a trip to the dog park could be another great way to get rid of excess energy. Just make sure you keep activities low impact until puppies finish growing to avoid damaging developing joints. Fully-grown Sheepadoodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Generally, Sheepadoodles 20 inches or shorter are considered Mini Sheepadoodles. Sheepadoodles generally live for years on average. Sheepadoodles are also sometimes called Sheepdoodles, Sheepdogpoos, Sheepposs, and Sheep-a-poos. Featured Sheepadoodle Article.
These pups are intelligent, friendly, and eager to please. Black Labs are also known for being loyal, protective, and devoted to their families. In addition to their great personalities, Black Labs are also excellent athletes. They excel at agility and obedience trials, and they make excellent hunting and retrieving dogs. Black Labs are versatile dogs that can fit into almost any lifestyle. They do very well with children. The breed is usually tolerant of climbing and tugging by small children and love to be spoiled. This confident yet tender pup is social and easy-going around new people. Black Lab Puppies Health Considerations Though generally very healthy and long-lived — with an average lifespan of around 10 to 12 years — our Black Labs for sale are not without their unique health concerns. Like every breed of dog, there are a few conditions you should be aware of before you consider purchasing one of our Black Lab puppies for sale. Understanding the risks allows you to know the signs and prevent small health concerns from turning into big ones. Hip and elbow dysplasia are both hereditary conditions that can cause joint pain and mobility issues. Allergies are relatively common in dogs, and Black Labs are no exception. Symptoms can include itchiness, redness, and hair loss. Exercise-induced collapse is a relatively rare condition that can be triggered by strenuous activity. Symptoms include weakness, dizziness, and collapse. While these health concerns can be daunting, many of them can be effectively managed with proper care. Finding a Black Lab puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. They are also one of the most popular breeds in the United States, in part due to their beautiful black coat. And while the coat does require some maintenance, it is relatively easy to care for. Weekly brushing will help to remove dead hair and keep the coat looking shiny and healthy. Labs also benefit from occasional baths, which will help to remove any dirt or debris that has become trapped in their fur. Meet Black Lab Puppies for Sale. From puppyhood to old age care The black Lab is up to 24 inches tall and weighs up to 80lbs. Depending on on their ancestors, your black Labrador puppy may be a little smaller than this when they are fully grown. And the hunting or American Lab may have a lighter frame and a strong drive for retrieving. The lifespan of a black Labrador is 12 years, and some purebred black lab puppies can live even longer given the right diet, exercise and a healthy dose of luck. He was my constant companion almost into adulthood. He came on countless runs through the woods, spent hours playing ball in the backyard, but also sat with his head gently rested in my lap whenever I was sad. It has always amazed me that despite the black Labrador being the most common color, it is in some ways the least appreciated. With an amazing history of working alongside human companions, and a fabulous temperament, this pup really is one to watch. This black retriever has been favored by the hunting community for generations. But they were bred from a fishing companion that has been extinct now for nearly fifty years. This breed was also most likely the route of the rather different, and bigger, Newfoundland. Albeit often with white markings. Do you ever feel like you see more black Labs around than any other color? The first chocolate Labradors that we know of were born in the s, but colors other than black were not at all popular until the mid 90s. Horribly, for many generations most puppies born with chocolate or yellow coats were routinely euthanized at birth! If a puppy has inherited the gene for black coat color from either of her parents, this is the color that her coat will be. These both come from a pigment called eumelanin. More eumelanin leads to a black Lab, less leads to a chocolate. Genes come in pairs. Here we are dealing with B genes at the B locus. B is dominant over b. So a pairing of BB or Bb will give a black coat. Only bb will give a brown coat. A puppy gets one gene from each parent. With me so far? This is because these genes are also effected by another set of genes, at the E locus. E is dominant, and does not get in the way of the B genes. But e is recessive, and this does. It has the potential to stop the B genes giving a black or brown dog, and gives us yellow Labrador pups. And these all interact with each other differently to give different coat colors. This diagram explains them nicely: You can see from these combinations alone that the most common result is a black Lab puppy. But also how chocolate and yellow Labs were hidden for a time through careful matings and selective culling. But there is another twist to the black coat color tale. Occasionally a Lab is born with the dilute gene. This genetic twist essentially tones down the shade of the dark coat color. In the same way that the chocolate Lab looks silver when this gene is activated, the black Lab looks charcoal. In genetic terms, this dilute gene lives at the D locus. Popularity of Black Labs Black Labs have always been the most prevalent color, but their popularity has changed over the years. In the sporting dog community owners of hunting dogs still often prefer the black coat, but pet and show owners often show a preference these days for the paler colors. Chocolate and yellow Labs can even fetch higher prices from some breeders, not to mention the less common fox red and silver tones. Black Dogs Are Harder To Rehome There is a sad phenomenon in pet shelters, which impacts the rehoming rate of black dogs. Prospective owners often pass them by, regardless of temperament, in favor of the brighter colored pups on offer. But these adopters are missing a trick, because black dogs have so much to offer beyond their coat. And what they do offer differs slightly between the Labrador types. English Black Labs — bred for show There are two strains of Labrador. One was bred for the show ring, and the other was bred for the field. Although they are both Labs in the true sense, these separate strains can be quite different and are easy to pick apart if you know what you are looking for. English black Labradors are often preferred by pet homes as well as owners interested in the ring. The English black Lab has a reputation for being a little slower to mature, and a lot more playful. American Black Labs — bred to work American black Labs are slimmer, less excitable but more driven. They stand around the same height, but their heads are less broad and their tails often have less of the otter quality that their show companions sport. Although still friendly, they are perhaps less inclined to play than their show bred cousins. And in contrast to this have a stronger drive to retrieve and hunt. The English black Lab was bred for looks over purpose. Their broad head and barrel chest is matched with a straight, thick furred tail and a heavier weight on the scales. Black Labradors bred for show or as pets tend to be slower to mature, with a more playful personality, and are arguably less likely to run off after wildlife! Which Type Suits You? American black Labs may need more exercise and mental stimulation than English black Labs. They will benefit from gun dog style training involving retrieving exercises. Black Lab Characteristics Although there is no denying that the different Labrador strains have separated to a fair dramatic degree, these are still all fundamentally black Labs. And they do have some features in common that makes them who they are. The Lab has a double coat, excellent for keeping them warm in and out of the water. Their thick straight tail is described as having an otter-like appearance. And they are almost all one single color with no other markings. Mismarked Labs rear their heads from time to time, but this is generally just a case of white toes or a splash of white on their chests. Grooming and Coat Care Your black Lab needs no special grooming due to his coat color. In fact, the grooming requirements of your Labrador Retriever are some of the simplest among dog breeds. Their coats are designed to take care of themselves. Though your furniture and floors may benefit if your dog has a twice daily brush when shedding heavily. Other than that Labs have a wonderful coat that requires only occasional washing. The eventual size of your black Lab puppy will depend a little upon their upbringing, and a lot upon whether they are from American or English lines. An adult black Lab will weigh anywhere from 55 to 80 lbs, and be from 21 to .The English black Lab will tend to be closer to the heavier end of the spectrum, and the American nearer to the lower. Black Lab Temperament Labradors are well known for being friendly. Perhaps sometimes a little too friendly! This bouncy breed is more likely to leap up and lick a burglar than to stop him in the act. The downside of this is that they can be easily distracted at the dog park by wanting to greet everyone they come across. Their jolly, lively nature can also lead them into trouble with people who are unsteady on their feet. Although lovably clumsy, this dog also has a brilliant brain. Intelligence Black Labradors have been bred for generations as hunting companions. Deliberately bred from dogs that were attentive to their handlers and relatively easy to teach commands to, they are absolutely an intelligent breed. Because to get that black coat expressed is just a matter of mating two dogs, whereas to get the recessive genes you need to at least partially make your breeding choices based upon the colors of the parents as well as factors to do with temperament and trainability. But the most important factor when bringing together two Lab lines should always be one of health. Training and Exercising Your Black Lab Black Labs are intelligent dogs and training is an absolute essential for them and their owners. RUnning, swimming, cycling, hiking and even dock diving are popular pass times. Although American Labs tend to be more driven to fetch, English Labradors are often still keen too. Both types need a good workout every day to keep them fit and healthy. And to help them relax at home. You can exercise your dog with a traditional walk, by going for a run together or through play. Retrieving games are a great way to give your Lab a lot of exercise without you having to travel quite such a long distance yourself. You can find some great ideas for games you and your Labrador can play together in this article. Black Lab Health The best way to avoid health problems is by purchasing a puppy from health tested parents. The main areas to be aware of are joint problems and eye problems. Hip and elbow dysplasia are common Lab complaints. This condition ranges in severity and an adult dog can have x rays to assess their joint health, and be given a score to let you know how well their joints have developed. To avoid your puppy suffering from this either both parents need to be Clear or one Clear one Carrier. If one is a carrier, your puppy might carry the gene too. A general eye exam once a year will make sure that there are no other vision problems manifesting over time. Most breeders advertise online now, so you will need to be careful to have a good chat with them before committing to buying a puppy. Do not put down a deposit before meeting the mother and the litter at their home. The mum should be relaxed and happy to meet you, and for you to handle her pups. If you are looking for a pet you will need to decide whether you think a show or working temperament is better suited to your lifestyle and family needs. Make sure the breeder willingly shows you copies of health certificates from both parents. As a minimum they should be PRA clear, have a recent clear eye check from a vet, have good hip scores and an elbow score of 0. If one parent has been shown as a carrier for dwarfism or PRA, be sure to check that the other has been tested clear. Good breeders ask lots of questions because they care about what happens to their pups, and will be open and willing to answer all of your questions too. You might find it helpful to check out our article on Labrador breeders before you start searching for a pup. You might also want to read this article: Choosing the Right Dog. The information in these articles will help you avoid some of the common mistakes people make when looking for their new best friend. Rescuing a Black Lab Rescuing a dog is a great thing to do if your circumstances are right. And rescuing a black Lab is even better, as this color can be hard to home. Reputable rescues will work hard to match you to the right dog, and help you to make a choice that fits in well with your family. Rescuing such a dog can be very rewarding. We hope you will find our article Should you adopt a Labrador helpful. You can view a list of rehoming societies on our rescue page. They will also offer plenty of support and help once you bring your dog home. Especially when it comes to behavioral and training problems. White or grey hairs may start forming around their muzzle, giving them a bearded or grizzled look. This pale hair is nothing to worry about and happens to most black Labs sooner or later. As your black Lab reaches old age, you might find that he slows down a bit. His typical energetic black Lab personality may mellow. He will be less boisterous, and more inclined to spend the day in bed than bouncing up and down by your side. The average lifespan of a black Lab is around 12, but if you are lucky your pup might be with you for 14 or more years. A more comfortable bed, ideally with memory foam, can help support those ageing joints. Ramps for accessing the car can really help them out too. Depending upon advice from your vet you might also want to switch them to a senior dog food , which is easier to digest and has additives that some believe can help slow the pace of arthritis. Life Span Did You Know? Black Labrador Retrievers, or just Black Labs, are a common coat color variation of one of the most popular dog breeds. The Black Labrador Retriever is not necessarily a separate dog breed. Black Labs are still Labrador Retrievers; they just have a distinct coat color that is a specifically-bred characteristic. Like other Labrador Retrievers, Black Labs are energetic, playful, and affectionate dogs that make great family companions. Although they are active and energetic dogs, Labs are also known for their gentleness and patience with other family members. Well-socialized Black Labs tend to get along well with just about everyone including children, other dogs, pets, and even strangers. They are considered one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , Black Labs thrive on attention, especially from their favorite humans. They are happiest when they are spending time with their families and receiving affection and attention from them. Despite their high energy, Labs are highly adaptable dogs. They do tend to be better suited to homes with fenced yards where they can run, but they also adapt well to apartments provided they get enough daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation. They do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat and extreme cold like many dog breeds. As such, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Black Labrador Retriever can include elbow dysplasia , hip dysplasia, heart disease, hereditary myopathy, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. Another potential health concern is EIC exercise-induced collapse , which can occur in young adult Labs and has a genetic link. Because carriers can be identified by DNA tests, it is recommended that breeders test for them. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you talk to the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, Labrador Retrievers are at a higher risk for bloat. Labrador Retrievers are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. Although their high energy and puppylike exuberance can sometimes be a challenge, they are intelligent dogs that are eager to please. As long as training is kept consistent and focused on positive rewards and praise, novice owners still tend to do well with Black Labs. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training too. Black Labs have a short, water-resistant double coat that sheds year-round and sheds heavier as seasons change. Depending on how active your Black Lab is and what they get into, they may need a bath more often, especially if they are swimming a lot. Weekly ear checks and careful cleanings when needed help prevent ear infections. Good dental care for dogs , like daily brushing and cleanings at the vet when needed, can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. As one of the most active dog breeds , a Black Labrador Retriever will need a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are a minimum. Your Black Lab will likely be up for more activity if you are. One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that they have an extended puppyhood. They tend to maintain a puppylike exuberance until they are years old. Although they do tend to mellow out as they get older, they are still active, energetic, and playful dogs. Once they are fully grown, you can try other things like hiking, running, dock diving, and more to find other activities you and your Black Lab can enjoy together. Fully-grown Black Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Black Labs generally live for years on average. Black Labrador Retrievers came before the also-popular Chocolate Lab. All modern Chocolate Labs can be traced back to three Black Labs in the s. It was the December issue of .Featured Black Labrador Retriever Article. This is is a very strong breeding presenting 14 National Field Champions in their combined pedigrees. She is a muscular rock solid 52 pound female of pure energy. She can outrun anyone and her love of retrieving is pure and always front and center. She is definitely her mother's Jet daughter. She taught her well, she is a strong hunting partner and a loyal family companion who loves with her whole heart. She trains the young ones around Bailiwick, she is so very smart. Spend one minute with her and it is obvious, she is "Over the Top", she truly has it all. Retrieve, yes she loves retrieving, ask her and you shall receive. She is a devoted companion who loves with her whole heart, will work all day, not a problem with her. At the end of a long day she is not hard to find, she will be right at your side. This beautiful gal was born dreaming if ducks and duck ponds. Radley is Mr. Personality, he will put a smile on your face. We can retrieve all day or we can just visit and be cool, either way not a problem for Radley. He is truly a pleasure to train, so smart just tell him once and he has it down pat!!!!! This is a very strong breeding.Her love is retrieving, if you have the time she has the energy. She is dedicated, loving and very smart. Training her is a pleasure. What a loving personality, she will put a smile on your face. This is a very strong breeding. Stella presents three National Champions in her pedigree
He has waited patiently for his forever home after previous adopters have let him down. The love this boy has to give is like no other. He loves to sit and be loved on and will give so much joy to you. The family had him for about a year, and then they got a couple more dogs. That didn't work out because Mikey prefers to be an only child dog. He has been adopted out three times and keeps getting brought back because his adopters end up bringing another dog or cat into the home and that just doesn't work out. He does well with people, he just prefers not to share them. He loves to cuddle, wants to be a lap dog, and he will smile for you. He also loves belly rubs! He is getting a few grey hairs and aging a bit but he still has many years and a lot of love to give. Mikey is a wonderful, friendly, funny, active boy who would love to live out his life in someone's home and heart. If you are looking for the perfect boy who will make you his whole world, consider adding Mikey to your family. He is a beautiful boy. He has been neutered, micro-chipped, dewormed, has been tested for heartworms, is current on his routine vaccinations and is on a heartworm preventative. Nestled in the Southeastern region of the United States, Kentucky boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and an abundance of dog-friendly activities, making it a fantastic place for Boxer enthusiasts. Our site features reputable KY breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Kentucky falls into 32nd place among other states, with a dog population of over thousand dogs in the state. Kentucky is a haven for dog lovers, offering a wide array of dog-friendly restaurants, parks, and events where you can enjoy the company of your furry friend. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our trusted Boxer breeders offer safe and affordable flight delivery, with a dedicated flight nanny accompanying your new pup throughout their journey, providing a safe, secure, and comfortable trip as they make their way to their new home in the Bluegrass State. In addition to flight delivery, most breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option guarantees your Boxer puppy is safely transported to your doorstep by a professional who understands the unique needs of pet travel. Begin your search for the perfect Boxer puppy today on TrustedPuppies.
This mixed breed is a cross between a German Shepherd and Alaskan Malamute that likely originated in the early s. Bred to carry packages and pull sleds, breeders wanted the best of two already popular, strong purebreds. Over the years, people combined various strains of this purebred to produce the modern-day GSD. Fun fact: The German Shepherd is quite popular in pop culture, too. From wolf to dog: the Alaskan Malamute Alaskan Malamutes , or simply Mals, are descendants of canines from the Paleolithic period. Meet the cheerful Alaskan Malamute Malamutes are directly domesticated from their wolf ancestors, explaining their fierce wolf-like appearance — rock deep chests with powerful shoulders and erect ears. It tells the tale of a scientific expedition in Antarctica. What does an Alaskan Shepherd look like? They have pointy, erect ears, and eyes that can be hazel, brown, or blue. Then their noses can either be black or brown. German Shepherd Malamute mixes have great strength, which is evident in their muscular body and sturdy disposition. How big does a German Shepherd Malamute mix get? Alaskan Shepherds have a height of 21 to 28 inches 53 to 71 cm and weigh 60 to pounds 27 to 59 kg , with females being a tad smaller than males. Medium- to giant-sized dogs are NOT suitable for apartment living. They need a house with a large indoor and outdoor space to be comfortable. Are German Shepherd Malamute mixes hypoallergenic? They have a straight, medium-length double coat made up of a soft, dense undercoat and a thick, rough topcoat. These fluffy beauties can have a red, brown, gold, black, and grey color coat. But other combinations and shades are possible too, like blue, silver, sable, white, cream, and liver. They can be tricolored, too. Temperament: Is a German Shepherd Malamute mix a good family dog? Alaskan Shepherds are affectionate, loyal crossbreeds that are excellent with children. Be cautious and supervise play because this pooch might not be aware of how strong and big they are. Their independence can make them stubborn and would need a pack leader. Early socialization and training are crucial to avoid potential aggressive behaviors, which comes from their GSD parent. Eventually, they can serve as therapy or service dogs. So go ahead and train your pup as early as two and a half weeks. Want to see how smart the German Shepherd-Alaskan Malamute cross is? Watch this video of Zoey instinctively herding goats! After bringing your Alaskan Shepherd home Be aware that these dogs require moderate to intense maintenance. They need some serious upkeep. Are you up for it? This will provide you full access to brush her coat, especially the parts where matting often occur, like the neck area. Get your bristle brush and run it in one direction. Some owners use a deshedding tool twice a week to lessen the amount of shedding. Baths should only be given when your doggo looks and smells dirty to avoid drying her coat and skin. And use a soothing shampoo that has aloe vera and oatmeal. For that weekly ear cleaning, use a cotton ball and a dog-specific ear solution. The frequency of nail trims will depend on activity level since dogs can naturally wear down their nails with exercise. They could get dry and scaly; if this happens, you can use Vaseline as treatment. Exercise: How active are Alaskan Shepherds? The Alaskan Malamute-German Shepherd cross has parents with a working background, so we can expect this pooch to be highly active. But at least an hour of exercise a day will be sufficient. Plan for a range of activities to keep your fur baby engaged. They also need mental stimulation. You can play fetch with her, or give her time to enjoy sniffing and running around. The best food for a German Shepherd Malamute mix The kind of diet and amount of food you should give your dog will depend on her age, weight, metabolism, and health. Choose a brand with high levels of protein and calcium, as well as easy-to-digest ingredients like rice, chicken, and barley. Hypoallergenic dog food may also be a great choice since the German Shepherd breed is prone to various allergies. Resist those puppy-dog eyes! Are these dogs healthy? Still, all dogs can inherit some of the health problems that their purebred parents are predisposed to. Where to buy Alaskan Shepherd puppies? There are many places where you can find a German Shepherd Malamute mix puppy for sale. Do your research and ask questions before deciding who to buy from. Responsible breeders mostly require potential buyers to visit their kennel for a meet-and-greet, as well as to conduct interviews. In fact, we encourage you to get a dog that aligns with your lifestyle. Here are other designer dogs you may want to check out:. However, both parents may still carry specific genes, such as those for hip and elbow dysplasia, putting your Alaskan Shepherd puppy at risk. Always seek out a reputable breeder and always ask to see the DNA reports and hip and elbow scores of the parents before purchasing a puppy. This way, you do not encourage irresponsible breeding practices. Some other genetic issues to look out for include cartilaginous exostosis, which involves bony enlargements on any part of the skeleton except the skull, and chondrodysplasia, which sometimes affects Malamutes. It is a type of dwarfism that creates abnormally shaped limbs. Malamutes should also be screened for idiopathic polyneuropathy, day blindness, hypothyroidism, and cataracts before they are bred. In terms of the German Shepherd parent , genetic disorders include degenerative myelopathy, resulting in complete paralysis of the hindlegs, and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. This problem can lead to digestive issues. German Shepherds are also prone to various cancers, such as renal cystadenocarcinoma and nodular dermatofibrosis. These cause skin nodules and kidney tumors. German Shepherd crosses have been known to inherit these genes. An Alaskan Shepherd is also at risk for Von Willebrand disease, a blood-clotting disorder. While some dogs may never show any symptoms of this disease, others might bleed profusely from orifices like the nose, and cuts and scrapes can turn quite serious. Finally, since this is an active breed with a hearty appetite, its diet should be monitored if it eats a little more than it burns off exercising, as Alaskan Shepherds have been known to struggle with obesity. What is the lifespan of an Alaskan Shepherd? The German Shepherd is often not a long-lived dog, which can influence its offspring. However, the Alaskan Malamute is quite hardy, and so the Alaskan Shepherd can be expected to live between 7 and 14 years. The trainability of a Malamute German Shepherd mix: Temperament and Intelligence Generally, the Alaskan Shepherd inherits a high working drive from both parents, meaning it is at its happiest when it has a job to do. It also usually has the intelligence of the German Shepherd, making it moderately to highly trainable. One trait it will also likely gain from its GSD parent is its guardian instincts. However, this might be affected by the Malamute parent, as Malamutes are incredibly affectionate to all people and are usually not good guard dogs. Many Alaskan Shepherd owners report their dogs making the same hilarious sounds. However, like many ancient breeds, the Malamute is an independent and sometimes domineering dog with little patience for repetition in training and a strong mind of its own. It may well pass this willfulness down to the Alaskan Shepherd. Sociability with Other Pets It should also be noted that while the Malamute typically loves people, it also tends to have a high prey drive, making it a challenge to keep in homes with smaller animals. It has also been known to be dominant and sometimes aggressive with other dogs. So much so that it is recommended never to keep these dogs with others of the same gender. It is hoped that in the Alaskan Shepherd mix, although some of this may be less prevalent, that you socialize the dog from an early age and establish yourself as a pack leader. Preferably it should live in a cooler climate, better suited for its double coat, and should be given access to as much space as possible. Do German Shepherd Malamute mixes make good family dogs? The Alaskan Shepherd is the perfect dog for the right family. They tend to be protective and loving with children, although they should always be supervised because of their size. So long as their need for stimulation, challenges, and exercise are met, they are loyal guardians and devoted companions. Raising a German Shepherd Malamute mix puppy As a large to possibly giant dog, the German Shepherd Malamute cross needs to have its exercise carefully monitored while young to avoid undue stress on its joints. This is no small task since a young Alaskan Shepherd is likely to be rambunctious and rowdy. This means it will need carefully structured exercise and early socialization and training to deal with any potential aggression problems. Training should be kept short and positive to avoid problems with its stubborn streak. It will also need specially formulated food to help it grow. For this, it is best to speak to your veterinarian and make sure he is on a balanced diet. Since it is a mixed breed, the exact price can be hard to pinpoint. While this may not be the breed for a passive home, it can make an excellent companion, hunter, and sledding dog for anybody willing to put in the time. With enough stimulation, exercise, and training, the Alaskan Shepherd is likely to make one of the best dogs a person could own. If you are interested in this breed or have any experience with them, be sure to let us know about it in the comments below. 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. Alaskan Malamutes are speculated to have descended from wolves and may have accompanied hunters on their travels as far back as 4, years ago. Named after the Mahlemuts Indian tribe, they have long been bred for pulling sleds and assisting in big game hunts. As the official state dog of Alaska, this AKC-recognized breed has gained large fame across much of the northern and central United States. As you might expect, German Shepherds originally hail from Germany. Developed through intensive crossbreeding of native shepherding dogs in the early s, they were bred specifically to herd sheep. Renowned for their responsiveness and naturally well-behaved temperaments, they soon became a popular option for working dogs in every profession — even the German military. Their ancestors may have crossed the Bering Strait. As far back as 4, years ago, it is speculated that Paleo-Indian tribes migrated from Asia to North America via a land bridge that was only passable due to lower ocean levels. Larger dogs of this breed can nearly double the average weight. Uncommon amongst any dog breed, the Alaskan Shepherd has ancient genes that sometimes produce surprising results. Whereas most dogs of this breed weigh between 60 and 80 pounds, the largest examples can weigh in excess of pounds! Puppies of this breed can seem to have boundless energy and require substantial amounts of training to curb their constant enthusiasm and occasional recklessness. Are These Dogs Good for Families? While they would never intentionally harm a child — and often go to great lengths to protect them — their herding instincts can lead them to bully or boss children around without meaning to. As puppies, they may not be as inclined to spend time with other dogs and especially not cats or rabbits. Once they grow older and naturally mellow out, though, they can be very sociable and welcoming dogs. Things to Know When Owning an Alaskan Shepherd Adopting an Alaskan Shepherd will almost certainly be a large investment of your time, money, and attention. Possessed of great stores of energy and endurance, they love being taken outdoors for walks, runs, and hikes. A good baseline to shoot for is an hour per day of moderate activity, though they can easily handle more without complaint. If you like a dog that you can play games with, the Alaskan Shepherd is an excellent choice! This is especially true in the spring and fall when they will lose one coat to prepare for the season ahead. Weekly brushings will suffice for most of the year, but this should be increased to a daily frequency during their shedding seasons. However, they have inherited a tendency from their ancestors towards a few medical conditions, such as the following: Minor Conditions. The height of these crossbreeds varies from 21 to 24 inches. Males and females have little height difference. You can expect this crossbreed to have a medium-length, double coat. The colors of their coat can be a combination of black, gray, red, gold, and brown. This type of coat helps them cope with the extremely cold environment. The Malamute German Shepherds are diligent working dogs. On top of that, they are alert and aware of their surroundings. They make excellent watchdogs. They bark appropriately without being annoying and disturbing. They have keen senses to discern suspicious acts and people. Another trait it possesses is its affectionate nature. The gentle and loving German Shepherd Malamutes can come off as intimidating at first sight. In reality, they are fluffy and lovable dogs that enjoy the company of people. You must apply good researching techniques to locate professional breeders when it comes to crossbreeds. Professional breeders allow you to access the documents of the puppy, including health records and DNA testing. They also provide a suitable environment for the upbringing of the dogs. They will help you become reassured that the dogs will grow to have minimal problems regarding their health. Visit the breeders in their location is highly recommended. Another way to verify a breeder is through this visitation. You might think that another good place to acquire this crossbreed is through purchasing in pet stores. I advise against this method. As a breeding ground, the puppy mill has thousands of stories supporting the terrible conditions for breeding. The puppy mill does not provide the most suitable environment for rearing puppies. In this place, the puppies are forced to mate with one another and give birth. This mixed breed is relatively rare. There are some breed-specific and non-profit rescue centers all over the country. You can check out these rescue shelters to obtain a new fluffy companion. Their shedding process usually involves a lot of mess and hair, especially during periods with warm weather and when placed in a blistering environment. Brushing the coat needs to be done for three to five times per week. If your dog has a collar, remove it when brushing the coat, and do not leave out the neck area unkempt. You should pay attention to spots where tangles occur often, like the base of the ears. You can prevent loose hair from the brushing process by dousing the coat with water. Another tip for maintaining the shine of the coat is using a slicker brush instead of a pin brush. You can also get rid of loose hair and some debris by using the brush. If you notice that your dog is uncomfortable each time you brush or comb its coat, you should consider starting a desensitization training. The process starts with using your hands to familiarize the dog with the brushing activity. After some time, you may alternate between using a real brush or comb and using your hands. You can finally change to a full-time brushing with a slicker brush after a few weeks. The little parts of the Malamute German Shepherd Mix, such as its eyes, nose, nails, ears, and paws, must be cared for as well. You should check for ear infection signs like the accumulation of earwax. A cotton ball and an ear solution formulated for dogs are must-haves for sanitary ears. For dried and scaly paws, you may utilize Vaseline as treatment. The popular opinion of daily bathing for dogs is not advisable to follow. The indication for bathing the dog is its appearance or smell. You may use formulations with ingredients that are soothing to its skin, like aloe vera. It is important to determine some early signs of skin lesions. If you are unable to do the necessary steps for grooming, you should opt to bring your pup to a professional groomer in your locale. There are many innate and environmental factors affecting the health status of the crossbreed. Some of these factors are genetic make-up, the environment where it grew up, nutrition, and level of activity. There are some health problems with a predilection to one of the parent breeds. As a reliable owner, you must be cognizant of the health risks of this crossbreed. Obesity: This mixed breed tends to eat more than its requirement. This should be controlled because it makes the dog vulnerable to many diseases, such as back pains, cancer, and joint problems. Chondrodysplasia: This condition may lead to hip dysplasia. Degenerative myelopathy: This is an untreatable and progressive disorder that results to the inability to move the hind legs. Von Willebrand disease: It is a blood disorder that causes a lot of blood loss. One of the things you can do is to acquire vaccines. The recommended vaccines for puppies are rabies, measles, and a combination vaccine called DHPP. I strongly advise seeking the help of a trustworthy veterinarian to become knowledgeable on the signs and symptoms to watch out for. Malamute Crossed with German Shepherd Food Requirements There is no fixed quantity of food for a dog, even among those with the same breeds. You need the most appropriate diet that will result in the optimal condition of your dog. The general amount of food suitable for an adult German Shepherd Malamute mix dog may vary from 2 cups to 3 cups of high-quality food items. Two to three meals per day are advised for these crossbreeds. Your dog requires healthy bones and joints for its activity. It needs a healthy amount of calcium for that. Calcium will also aid in giving the best status of immunity. Another vital mineral for the development of bones and joints is phosphorus. Below is an inventory of the recommended dry food for the Malamute crossed with German Shepherd dogs. It includes nine simple key ingredients. It has a meat component that ensures a tasty and adequate amount of animal protein. It does not have any unhealthy additives. This brand has a 4, 12, or pound bags available. Purina HA Hypoallergenic: This hypoallergenic formulation is perfect for some dogs which may be predisposed to developing food intolerance and allergies. The optimal effect of this product is achieved by giving this alone for eight to 12 weeks. You can combine this food with other kinds of high-quality kibbles after the said period. It does not have allergenic materials like soy, whey, and gluten. It does not have artificial flavors. It contains Omega-6 fatty acids that help in moisturizing the coat and adding the healthy glow for the skin. It has easy-to-digest and organic components such as rice, chicken, and barley. It has reported on nutritional breakthroughs. It possesses prime chicken and customized fiber system for easy digestion. The German Shepherd Malamute mix may be at risk for overfeeding and obesity. An easy way to determine this is by doing the hands-on test and eye test. These two tests will require you to examine the dog beside you and looking at its waist from above. You will feel the ribs of the dog when you press down if the dog is not overweight. A positive result of this test should alert you as a responsible owner. A veterinarian can help immensely in managing the diet and other health concerns of your dog. You should consider involving one while planning for acquiring a new family member. Whether you adopt a big or small doggo, feed them only with premium-quality food to keep them happy and healthy all the time. Steer clear of the worst dry dog food , and get only the best dry dog food for your furry companion. If your furry buddy is still but a munchkin, consult our list of the best puppy food brands for nutrition ideas. In case your pooch is well past their prime, make sure to serve them only the best senior dry dog food to keep those frail bones, well, not so frail! Do remember that your adorable mixed pup carries the genes of their vastly different parents. They may inherit the palate of either, so you can offer them both the best dry dog food for small dogs and best large breed dry dog food and stick with the one they choose as their favorite! The period of physical activity engagement should be at least one hour. An appropriate blend of physical and mental stimulus for this mixed breed is necessary to avoid boredom and destructive behaviors. Some examples of possible physical activities for the Malamute German Shepherd mix are hiking, fetching, and running. Another consideration for the exercise period is the venue for the activities. I recommend a big area in a well-ventilated place for this crossbreed. The Kong Ball is a widely known toy for mental motivation. The use of this toy will aid in the digestion and mental health of the dog. It comes in different sizes, so you can get a suitable one for your dog. The German Shepherd Malamutes have a notable strength in biting. It is an under-stuffed toy that has a squeaker. It is made of a tough material, perfect for hours of rough play. They could become hardheaded as well. Your contribution to the morale boost will help the process. Below are some guidelines on training this mixed breed: Limit the Duration of the Training Sessions: A way to prevent misbehaviors during the training sessions is keeping the sessions short. A great crate has a comfortable bed and optimum ventilation. The period for crate training varies from 30 minutes for younger puppies to eight hours for adult Malamute German Shepherds. This training will benefit the mental health of the dog as well. It will help in having a calm disposition, particularly during travels, and it will also ward of possible separation anxiety. Positive Rewards-based System: This training method avoids the classical penalty techniques when dogs misbehave. You can have a box of treats ready for the training sessions. You should also provide cuddles and words of encouragement and approval when the dog abides by the rules. Every dog has a unique way of following the commands. If you want to learn more about the proper techniques, you may opt to ask for some advice from professional trainers. It is essential to provide positive words and gestures to make the dog feel at home. One phase of the training a dog called early socialization is necessary for developing healthy coping mechanisms to a new environment and people. Early socialization will hone the puppy and help in becoming mature. This will contribute to their potential in becoming therapy dogs, service dogs, or herders. The owners will hold the puppy each day until four weeks. The next phase continues until 16 weeks of age. This phase involves exposing the puppy to various kinds of animals, people, textures, fragrances, and sceneries. The above-mentioned tips on training may be applied during early socialization. The Malamute German Shepherd dogs are generally good with children. They will give affection and friendliness to the little ones. You still need to be careful with the child-dog interactions, especially when the dog is still young. You must also teach your children how to respect and play with the dog within respectable bounds. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. He is very energetic and well mannered. He is very gentle with children and protective of the whole family. He is very loving and great with our kids as young as 2 years old. He is very calm and we couldn't ask for a better puppy. He is full of energy and very loving. An intelligent dog and very easy to train. He howls like a Malamute and barks like a Shepherd. He loves playing with other pups and dogs as soon as he is familiar with them and his surroundings. He is very well house trained already and has not shed a hair in our home. He is very dependent on us for companionship and does not like being alone at all. He is very big boned and strong. He gets a lot of exercise, loves to play and is friendly with people. Ben is very intelligent and is easily trained. His prey drive is very high but living with a cranky cat is curbing that. An amazing pup who's growing quickly into an excellent well mannered Alaskan Shepherd who tends to howl at night. She is a very intelligent, mostly well-behaved dog who can be stubborn at times when it comes to learning commands, but she is very well housetrained. Naomi adapts well to new environments, proving this when we moved from the country to an apartment nearly miles away. She loves car rides and going places. She is very people-oriented and is good with children and cats, but she likes to establish her rank with other dogs before accepting their presence. She can be a bully, but is not really dog-aggressive. This dog is not very playful with other dogs, but loves to play with people. She displays many Malamute behaviors and some Shepherd behavior. She rarely barks, but instead makes the "woooo" talking sound Malamutes make and she howls when sirens are heard. She has some protective behaviors will growl at suspicious people when being walked at night , but she probably wouldn't keep a burglar out of the house if I was away. Her appearance and size, however, deter many people from coming too close without asking. She can be mischievous, but she is generally laid-back as long as she's walked several times a day. She is very clean and grooms herself like a cat. She sheds A LOT all year long. She is a large dog, around 83 pounds. Naomi was diagnosed with hip dysplasia when she was a year old and it had already caused arthritis. The only bad point is he sheds a huge amount of fur, but that may be due to the heating inside our home. This is a sled dog at its core, having great endurance and strength, which was a dog trait needed by ancestral owners in order to pull and carry heavy objects. He is sweet and family loving, loyal, and a highly capable watchdog. Read on to find out more. The German Shepherd Malamute mix is a hybrid dog. That is, a cross between the German Shepherd and the Alaskan Malamute. The Alaskan Malamute breed is believed to be descended from the dogs of hunters in the Paleolithic period. Roughly years ago, they crossed into North America from the land bridges of the Bering Strait. The dogs belonging to these people were domesticated from the wolf. Traditionally speaking, the Alaskan Malamute is part of the oldest sled dog breeds of the arctic. The German Shepherd breed was originally created for the purpose of herding sheep. These people combined various dog strains from the central and northern parts of Germany. This was in order to produce what would be known as the ancestors of the modern-day German Shepherd dog. The German Shepherd Malamute Mix vs. Purebred Debate Fans of mixed breed dogs argue that diversity makes them healthier than purebreds, with resulting fewer health problems. Those who are in favor of purebred dogs argue that they are healthier than mixes. They claim this due to better control over breeding, and therefore on the selection of genetic traits. This is a debate that is surely not going to be resolved anytime soon. They played the roles of two of the sled dogs, Buck and Shadow. The German Shepherd is quite the popular dog! Both parents have such similar features so you may see the input of both! Dogs of this mix have muscular bodies, possessing great strength and a sturdy frame. These dogs are well-suited for carrying significant weight and pulling sleds. They are 21 to 28 inches high, with a large weight range of 64 to pounds on average, corresponding to a medium and large size dog, respectively. They have a straight and medium-length double-coat consisting of a soft and dense undercoat and a thick, rough outer coat. Their coat colors are a combination of red, brown, gold, black, and grey. Their eyes are brown, hazel, or blue, and their nose is black or brown. German Shepherd Malamute Mix Temperament This is an affectionate and loyal dog, known for being very attached to their families. They inherit this quality from both parents. These dogs are wonderful around children, however, adult supervision around smaller children is recommended because of the large size of this dog. They make good guard dogs due to their ability to keep a vigilant eye on strangers. German Shepherds in particular tend to be cautious of strangers and sound the alarm when unfamiliar people arrive. This is a strong-willed dog with an independent streak. German Shepherds and Alaskan Malamutes are both loyal and loving dogs towards their families, and naturally the mix has this tendency as well. The exceptional intelligence and courage of the German Shepherd is a characteristic that may be passed on to the mix. So it is important to keep this dog active and mentally stimulated. Training Your German Shepherd Malamute mix Early socialization is important to curb any aggressive tendencies this dog may have towards strangers or other animals. The natural tendency of this dog towards independent and even stubborn behavior requires consistent and firm training from the puppy stage. Positive training methods are best. Due to the large size and physical attributes of this dog, he needs regular exercise, such as walking, hiking, or jogging to satisfy its high energy and endurance levels. At least an hour of physical activity a day is ideal. German Shepherd Malamute mix Health Both parent breeds have health issues. While the German Shepherd is an above average healthy dog with few health concerns, it does have a few health issues to watch for, such as degenerative myelopathy and elbow and hip dysplasia. These are common to the mix as well. Additional common health problems which the German Shepherd Malamute mix has are:. They were bred as working dogs, and their original purpose was to herd sheep. Alaskan Malamutes are one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. They were originally bred by the Mahlemut tribe of Alaska as sled dogs. While they are known today as one of the more popular designer breeds, these two breeds were not mixed until the early s, when people began to cross them for their working abilities. They are strong and athletic, with a muscular build. German Shepherds are inches tall at the shoulder. Alaskan Malamutes are one of the largest dog breeds, weighing in at pounds. Their typical height is inches at the shoulder. Malamutes are thickly built, with a broad chest and strong legs. They have a dense coat of fur that can be either short or long. The German Shepherd Malamute mix will usually take after its Alaskan Malamute parent in terms of size, but there is some variation. These dogs typically weigh between 50 and 85 pounds and stand inches tall at the shoulder. They may have the short coat and sleek build of the German Shepherd or the thick fur and broad chest of the Alaskan Malamute. Their coat colors are typically black, brown, or gray; however, they can also inherit the white markings of the German Shepherd. Like both of their parents, this mix has a strong and muscular build. They are a medium to large breed of dog that is very athletic. They will typically have almond-shaped eyes, and their ears may be pointed or floppy. Their tail is usually bushy and thick. These dogs are typically loyal, loving, and affectionate. They are also very protective of their family and may be suspicious of strangers. German Shepherds were originally bred as working dogs, so they are very intelligent and trainable. They are also known for being loyal and protective of their family. Alaskan Malamutes were originally bred as sled dogs, so they are very strong and athletic. However, they are also very affectionate with their family. This results in a mix that is very intelligent and trainable yet an independent thinker who can be stubborn at times. These dogs are also very affectionate with their family and make excellent protectors. However, they may be suspicious of strangers, so socialization is important from an early age. While this mix is an intelligent breed, poor breeding practices can result in your dog having behavioral issues as they age. They are also quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement. As with all dogs, early socialization is important for this mix. This will help them to be less suspicious of strangers and reduce the likelihood of aggressive or destructive behavior. This mix can be stubborn at times, so patience and consistency are important. They respond well to positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise. Puppy obedience training is a great way to socialize your puppy and start them on the path to good behavior. Exercise Needs This mix is a very active breed of dog that needs plenty of exercise. They are also very strong and have a lot of energy. These dogs need at least an hour of daily exercise and prefer to be outdoors. Daily walking or running is a great way to meet their exercise needs. German Shepherd Alaskan Malamute mixes also enjoy playing fetch, swimming, and hiking. They are also very intelligent and need mental stimulation, so interactive dog toys or puzzle games are a great way to keep them entertained. Overall, this mix is a great breed of dog for first-time owners or active people or families. They are a loving and affectionate breed, yet also make excellent protectors. They can be a great addition to any home with proper training and exercise. They also have an outer coat that is coarse and thick. A slicker brush or another shedding brush can help to remove loose hair and reduce shedding. Bathing These dogs also benefit from a soothing shampoo that is designed for dogs with sensitive skin. Additional grooming may be necessary if your dog has any mats or tangles in their coat. Ears This mix has erect ears that should be checked regularly for dirt or wax build-up. Cleaning with a cotton ball and dog-safe ear cleaner can help to prevent infections. Nails The nails of the German Shepherd Malamute mix grow quickly and should be trimmed regularly. Dental chews or bones can also help to keep their teeth clean and healthy. Overall, this mix is a high-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. However, regular brushing and occasional baths will help to keep their coat looking their best. However, like all breeds of dogs, they are susceptible to certain health conditions. Degenerative myelopathy is a degenerative disease of the spinal cord that can cause paralysis in the hind legs. Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the hip joint and can cause pain and lameness. Elbow dysplasia is a condition that affects the elbow joint and can also cause pain and lameness. All of these conditions can be debilitating and cause a decrease in quality of life. Fortunately, there are treatments available for all of the above-mentioned health problems. Overall, this mix is a generally healthy breed of dog. However, they are susceptible to certain health conditions that can be debilitating. Nutrition Requirements The German Shepherd Malamute mix is a high-energy breed of dog that requires a high-protein diet and is rich in fat. Dry dog food that is designed for large breeds is a great option for this breed. They should be fed between two to three times per day. A regular feeding schedule is important for this breed to help prevent bloat while maintaining suitable weight levels. Typical dog food brands to consider for this breed include Blue Buffalo, Wellness, and Taste of the Wild. Table scraps should be avoided as they can cause weight gain and digestive issues. Doggie treats, on the other hand, can be given in moderation. However, certain dogs may view this breed as a threat due to their size and energy level. This can be done by taking them to the dog park, doggie daycare, or dog walking. Due to their size, they are naturally more comfortable around larger dogs. With early training and socialization, however, this mix can integrate and socialize with most other dogs. However, their energy levels can be a bit much for smaller children. This breed is best suited for families with older children who can handle their high energy levels. Families with small children should consider another breed of dog that is more suitable for their lifestyle. Some examples of breeds that may be more suitable for families with small children include the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Drooling Levels This breed of dog is known to drool moderately. While they are not considered to be a slobbering breed, they may drool more when they are excited or hungry. They also require some maintenance when it comes to cleaning up drool, but it is not excessive. A damp cloth or baby wipes are generally all that is required to help to keep the area around their mouth clean. Barking Levels This breed of dog is known to bark moderately. They may bark when they are excited or when someone is at the door. However, with proper training, this behavior can be controlled. Barking collars are also an option but should only be used as a last resort. Positive reinforcement training is the best way to help control moderate barking in this breed of dog. Adaptability to Weather The German Shepherd Malamute mix is a breed of dog that is very adaptable to different weather conditions. They are comfortable in both hot and cold weather. They can typically handle temperatures as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can typically handle temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Overall, this mix is a very versatile breed that can adapt to most weather conditions. This is a relatively long lifespan for a large breed dog. While this breed is growing in popularity, it has not yet been officially recognized by the AKC. The AKC does not currently recognize any mixed breeds. However, they are working on a new pilot program that may eventually lead to AKC recognition for some mixed breeds, including this mixed breed. This price can vary depending on the breeder, the location, and the overall demand for the breed. Avoid buying a puppy from a pet store, as these puppies often come from puppy mills and may have health problems. This fee goes towards supporting the rescue organization and helps to cover the costs of caring for the dog. They are loyal, protective, and loving dogs that thrive on being close to their family. This breed requires a lot of exercise and training, but they are very intelligent dogs that are eager to please.
There are so many outdoor exercises and games that help in achieving their daily exercise routine perfectly. One such exercise is swimming. When can Golden Retrievers swim? Golden Retrievers do not have a specific time or age to begin to swim. Although, some are born with a phobia for water, a condition known as Aquaphobia. When this happens, it takes the dog a much longer time to adjust and even start to go close to water. To achieve this, start by putting it in small water bodies like pools, bathtubs, and shallow parts of the stream. Then, you should place your palm under its belly and chest and allow it just to swirl around and move its legs. Can Golden Retrievers puppy swim? Golden Retrievers puppies can swim. Swimming comes naturally to them. They may, however, require extra practice that goes a long way in helping them learn and get comfortable and relaxed around water. In addition, they may not have the flexibility in their body or be confident enough to swim independently, which is why extra care and attention should be given to them in the first few months when they start swimming. Can a two-month-old Golden Retriever swim? No, two-month-old Golden Retrievers can not swim because, at two months, they are only just being introduced to the water body to make them acquainted with the water. Golden Retrievers at two months can only swim if they have been introduced to water at a very early stage which is unsafe for them. While in water, extra care should be taken, and some safety precautions should be put into consideration. Golden Retrievers are good listeners and brilliant dogs. They may learn how to swim just after two swimming lessons. Take breaks in between swimming lessons Do not make the mistake of letting your puppy get tired on the water. Always give it short swimming lessons to make it want to go for more of the water. If you always stress them, they might develop a hatred for water, anxiety attacks, or may even become aquaphobic because the water scares them. Always consider the health of your dog Most two-month-old puppies are prone to fall sick due to weather and irregular temperatures in the environment. In addition, at two months old, they are mostly not strong enough to swim. Do not attempt to teach your golden retriever puppy to swim if they are sick or do not have the physical strength and energy in its body to swim. You may be too eager and want your dog to be a swimmer right away, but it is best to keep calm and teach your dog how to swim at the right time when it is old enough. Why are some Golden Retrievers scared of water? Due to the general assumption that all Golden Retrievers swim, most people become too eager to see their dogs swim. Well, you may have noticed that your Golden Retriever has a phobia for water, and you want to know why. They may run away from every form of water and even bathing. Some of the reasons why this happens: 1. It is a new experience for them Just like humans, dogs get anxious about the feeling of water over their bodies. When water pushes their fur, it makes it sticks together, thereby making movement uncomfortable for them. In addition, they may feel strange, so they want to get out and not stay another second. They were introduced into the water too early. Golden Retrievers that were often forced to swim at a very early age may grow up to hate water. Many younger dogs find it hard to swim and need time to grow and get strong enough to be in the water. Your curiosity and eagerness to watch your dog swim might just be the reason why it may never swim. They had a traumatic experience If your dog has had a bad experience with water, i. It may take them a long time, and they may never even swim again. Is it safe for Golden Retrievers to swim every day? Yes, it is. In fact, swimming as an outdoor activity helps Golden Retrievers stay healthy and fit. It helps it get the necessary energy it needs to carry out normal day-to-day activities effectively. It also helps burn body fat and energy a lot faster so even physical exercises do not. If your dog enjoys swimming, then let it swim. You, however, should rinse your body immediately after swimming, especially if the water swimming in was salty. What are the health benefits of swimming for Golden Retrievers? Swimming for you may just be one of the many exercises you do, but it has a lot of benefits for your dog. They include : It helps in reducing age-related illnesses such as weakness of the elbow and legs, i. Swimming as an exercise helps in burning fat in your heavy or overweight dogs. Adult goldens naturally do well in the water, but what about puppies? Can Golden Retriever puppies swim? Golden retriever puppies have a natural instinct that makes them good swimmers. Many Golden Retriever puppies can hit the water for the first time and learn how to swim very quickly. It is best to take precautions and stick near your puppy when they first start swimming to make sure they stay safe. While swimming is a natural instinct for a golden, it still takes a bit of learning and practice for a puppy to figure out how to swim. Many take naturally to the water and will learn to swim with very little encouragement. In fact, a golden is a natural swimmer because they were bred to retrieve birds and other game in the water during hunts. In the past, Golden Retrievers were bred to help retrieve waterfowl that was downed during a hunt. To do this, they would need to have strong swimming muscles to get out into the water, get the animal, and bring it back to their owners. Thanks to this breeding, most Golden Retrievers are just naturally strong swimmers. This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! When take your puppy out to the water to swim, you can enjoy some peace of mind compared to other animals. There are a lot of genetics at play that help your dog to be a good swimmer, including strong legs, the ability to keep their energy up, and an inherent instinct for swimming. If you have a new golden retriever puppy, you may first want to know how old they should be before introducing them to the water? At this point they have developed enough to begin to be able to handle the water. Then you can take the time to help them adjust to the water and teach them how to swim and be safe. You may find that just a few times on the water is all your puppy needs to take off and want to spend all afternoon swimming. Other times your puppy may need a little more guidance and help. He took to swimming like…well, like a Golden Retriever! How to Keep Your Golden Retriever Safe on the Water Even if your dog does know how to swim, there are a few things that you can do to help keep them safe. Remember the Sunscreen Humans and dogs are quite similar when it comes to sun exposure. While we can agree, there are big differences between the species, there is one similarity in that the sun can be as harmful to the skin of your dog as it is to your own. This will make it easier to swim in the water as they are learning, and will keep them afloat if they get tired. They are not used to this new activity and may not have the endurance to spend that long in the water. If you let them overexert themselves or swim for too long, they can get overly tired. This increases the risk of drowning. Short little spurts into the water are best. This allows your dog to get used to the water and swim a bit, building up her endurance, so she can swim for longer and longer as time goes by. So cute! Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! Short swims also allow your golden retriever puppy to develop a sense of their own level of endurance. They will begin to learn just how much effort it will take to swim a specific distance. A young puppy will learn the same thing over time. These steps include: Take your puppy to a small, calm lake or swimming pool. You and someone else should go into the water in case something goes wrong. Gently guide your puppy into the water. Let the puppy feel the water a bit before turning back towards the other person you brought with you. Keep them close to the shore or steps of the pool. The best way to do this is to have one of your hands on the stomach and the other at the base of the tail. This is a good time to talk gently to your puppy and be positive and upbeat. Once their legs are under, you should notice that even while holding them, your dog is moving their legs and paddling. This is the time for praise and positive reinforcement to let the dog know they are doing well. The other person on the shore should call for your dog to come to them. You can release the dog a bit, adding a bit of balance as necessary. When you feel they are comfortable and ready, release completely and let them swim the rest of the way. Continue with this. Take them back out into the water and let them swim back to the person on the other shore for as many times as it takes. Conclusion Your Golden Retriever puppy is sure to love spending time on the water with you and the rest of the family. There are a few simple precautions you can take to make sure that your puppy will be safe when they bounce into the water. But if you learn how to watch them, protect them from getting too tired or too burnt, and you teach them how to swim, your puppy will have the time of their lives. Swimming comes naturally to any retriever that comes from good breeding. Even though the majority of sporting dogs seem to love swimming almost more than eating, you should keep in mind that the enthusiasm level your retriever exhibits for water will be heavily influenced by its first encounter with it. Start as early as conditions allow. You can introduce a retriever pup to water at a very young age, provided weather conditions are right. I just about lose my mind when someone brings me a 6- or 7-month-old pup for training and tells me the dog has never been in the water. But understand that a pup that has developed confidence in and around water at, say, two or three months old is going to be way ahead in its training progress. California retriever owners have an advantage over their counterparts in northern climates when it comes to ideal retriever training weather: more sunshine and more warmth. Keep it shallow, keep it fun. This is really important. Too many dogs have been introduced to water at the end of a dock or by getting tossed from a boat. Do that with your pup and yes, it will swim. But will it like it? Um, not so much. Get near the edge of your shallow pond and toss some fun bumpers on land, right next to the water. If your pup is pumped up and having a good time with that, the next step is to toss the bumper just a couple feet into the water. The bumper should land where your dog has to enter the water to grab it, but its feet can still touch bottom. Timid and skeptical? Or bonkers and asking for more? But if all is going well, you can go to the next step. Time to actually swim. For a dog that is loving the water and is fixated on retrieving, the initial toss of a bumper into a little bit deeper water can seem almost anti-climactic. For some dogs, it seems to barely register to them that their feet are no longer touching bottom. Others might hesitate for a moment, but then that drive to retrieve takes over and they just do what comes naturally. Keep up the fun bumper routine for a few more sessions. One on land, one in the water. One on land, two in the water, and so on. But sometimes, for some unknown reason, a pup is just not taking to water. You can solve for this; it just takes some patience. I call the dog to me, and if it resists, I literally pull him in with me. My hope is that eventually I can be standing in waist-high water while the dog is moving along with me and learning to swim like a champ. Successfully introducing your retriever to water, like so much of its training, requires you to think strategically and exercise patience. Some retrievers are scared of water and that can make it hard to teach him to swim. In this post we teach you how we go about when teaching our golden retriever puppies how to swim. Once she becomes comfortable, then you can bring her out to the lake or the sea shore and coax her to try it out. How to introduce puppy to water The first thing that you must remember is that your dog must be trained or must be obedient enough or at least, possess the basic obedient skills before you take him to the waterfront. He needs to know that there is nothing to be afraid of, so take him to the waterfront and make him stand in shallow water. It is a good idea to introduce him to water from a young age. And as he grows up, he becomes more comfortable with getting into water and even diving into the same to fetch items. You need to train your dog to come to you when you call out to him, so that when he is in water, he can come towards you once he hears your summons. Rather than pull the leash, it is safer this way. You can introduce your pup to water when he is just eight weeks old. And once you get him used to water, transitioning from a walk along the shores to a fully fledged swim should not take that long. You can also bring another person as well. Now gently lift your golden retriever in your hands, walk into the water, and then gently submerge your pup but make sure that you have your hands under his belly. Your pup is a little panicked at this stage; so you need to talk to him gently, coo in his ear if necessary, but make him feel relaxed. Now, when your golden retriever starts paddling his legs, praise him and use positive reinforcement to make sure that he understands. It is important that you do not force your retriever to swim or stress her out, she must learn to love the water on her own Now gently release your pup and point her towards the shore and see if she can make her way towards the same. Continue the same process and extend the duration each day until she starts swimming with pleasure. Congratulations, you have managed to make your golden retriever take to water. But here are a few safety tips that you may want to review, before you end up throwing your retriever into the deep end of the pool. If you have a dog that is very afraid of the water, an alternate approach would be that you start out by first finding a unpopulated place with calm and shallow water. Get your dog used to the sight of the ocean or lake by walking your puppy on the beach. Try to get close to the water and encourage your puppy to get her paws wet. When the puppy is comfortable, you can start steering your dog towards more deeper waters. Remember to have the leach on while doing this exercise, so that you more easily can steer the puppy. It is also not necessary that the puppy swims the first time while you are doing this exercise. The most important part of this exercise is that you show your dog that the ocean is not dangerous. Our puppy Umbra loves long walks by the ocean! Safety Tips: Do not throw your dogs off the pier or into the deep end: if your pup has still not learnt to swim properly, then he can end up drowning. That is why it is important for you to teach your pup all the basics of swimming so that she is prepared for the same. Invest in a flotation device for dogs: This is a good idea and a nice move; you can invest in a flotation device that helps keep your pup afloat as she tries out the basics of swimming. These flotation devices are designed to help your dog to learn swimming and at the same time, stay afloat. For example if you plan to teach your pup how to swim in a fast moving river then it makes perfect sense to try out the flotation device, and anchor the same safely. Bring a buddy: Introducing another dog that loves swimming may well be the trick that will get your retriever into the water. Most dogs follow other dogs and seeing one enjoying swimming is bound to cause your pup to try out the water. But make sure that the dogs get well with each other and do not fight as that somehow defeats the purpose. Swimming pools: These are often the best location to start training your pup. Slow introduction: chances are that your pup is somewhat terrified of water. Given this you may want to help calm down your retriever, talk in soothing tones and introduce her slowly to water. So you need to lead by example, so get into the water slowly and start paddling. Then coax your dog gently to try out the same as well. You can also use a flotation device so that in the event of anything going wrong, he has a safety net. Rewards: One of the most effective ways to train your dog is to offer him a reward after praising him for acceptable behavior. Now, you can employ the same trick at the swimming pool and coax your dog to get into the water. And once she does, use positive reaffirmation to show that you are pleased with her behavior Be supportive: It is important that you are supportive of your pup; remember that she is panicking right about now, and you need to soothe her fears down. Once they start to panic most dogs raise their front paws to get out of the water. This often results in pushing them down further, so make sure that you are supporting your pup during the initial training period. Try placing your hand under her belly, this should help support her as she starts to use her front paws. You can also place a hand under her rump for additional support. Your dog will require additional support until she becomes better versed with the basics of swimming. Four paws: Chances are that your golden retriever will only use her front paws to paddle, so you need to encourage her to use all four paws when swimming. Once she gets the hang of it, encourage her to retrieve small objects. Soon, you should be able to get the message across and your pup would soon know the meaning of these water words. Check the weather as well as the currents: It is important that you check the weather and currents of the local body to assess if it is safe taking your dog out for a swim. Do note that rip tides can be quite powerful and it is never a good idea to take your dog swimming in inclement weather either. It is important that you assess the local conditions including the current tide as well as the weather before you take your dog swimming, And make sure that you go along to supervise her swim, so that you can always jump in after her and rescue her if needed. It is important that you take care to check all the local conditions before you take your retriever for a swim. Next, Feed And Reward Your Dog Now that you have managed to teach your golden retriever to swim, there are a few things that you need to take care of right away: Wash and pat: It is important that you use lukewarm water to wash and pat her dry. Now, she can adjust to the room temperature and feel comfortable. Hot food: Make sure that you have selected a nutritious brand of food for your dog. It is important that she nourishes her body soon and hot piping food should do the trick. Do remember that meat happens to be the main source of nutrition for your dog so select food items which feature the same. Consult a vet: You can always consult the vet about the best food items to purchase for your dog. Small portions: Do remember that your golden retriever is still a pup so you need to feed her in small portions. If you are not sure about the schedule, you can, consult a vet and the number of times that you would be required to feed your dog, in the course of a single day. It is a good idea to go in for stainless steel bowls for both water as well as dinner. The one reason that you may want to opt for stainless steel bowls is on account of the fact that they come less bacteria. Health treats: You can also provide your pup with some health treats. It is important that you do not force her to get into water as that can serve to increase her anxiety levels. Just follow the steps listed here and you should be able to teach your dog to swim in no time at all. And in due course, you should be able to take your pup for a swim. Just remember that it is important that you support your pup all through the various stages and ensure that she does not have to panic and that you are with her, during this process. And make sure that you assess the local conditions, prior to heading to office. Soon, your pup will not bark on seeing the water or start whining the moment she ends up in war. But as mentioned earlier, these are just during the initial stages and soon you should be able to watch your golden retriever have tons of fun, swimming in the water. Related Articles.
Pug Dog Biting Biting Vs Nipping It's common to use the word biting, however most puppies nip and there is a big difference. A nip is a quick snapping of the jaws.It is done in reaction to one of several triggers: Fear- Sometimes if a pup is startled he may nip in automated reaction. Play - Young puppies and older Pug pups, if not taught nip as they play. This how newborns interacted with litter-mates. Once at their new home, new rules must be taught that this is not an accepted form of behavior. Ruby Photo courtesy of owner Alf Dixon Ruby Photo courtesy of owner Alf Dixon Irritation - If a favorite toy is taken away, if a puppy is too possessive of his "belongings", if a pup has not yet learned his place in the family "pack" and other triggers can cause a young Pug to bite or nip. Before we dive into training for this, let us make note that the above is a nipping problem and not an actual biting issue. Biting is reserved for when a dog aggressively bites, there is a locking of the jaw.There is skin contact and often broken skin. It is a dominant, aggressive action that warrants much different training. The Pug dog is an even tempered, good natured dog breed and very rarely will a Pug actually bite as opposed to nipping. Training for This All dogs find comfort and security in knowing that they are living in a pack. Today's modern dog's pack is his human family. By taking proper care of a Pug , an owner shows him that it is the human who is the leader Alpha. Proper feeding giving the sit command first and training for commands are the 2 main ways that a dog truly understands who is in charge. When a dog of any age is ignored by his leader, this sends a very strong message. Canines do not take this lightly and any action that seemingly lead to the brief social isolation is quickly put into the "do not do" category. This does not mean that an owner should ignore the behavior.What an owner should do, is to immediately take action by purposefully ignoring the puppy to such as extent that he worries that his action damaged his place in the pack.If both owner and dog are sitting down when the bite occurs, the owner should raise. If both were on the floor, the owner should stand or sit on the sofa. The idea is to physically separate from the pup and maintain an authoritative physical position. The next step is to completely ignore the Pug, this means zero talking and no eye contact. It will be a brief banishing in which the puppy is essentially invisible. Everyone in the house should follow this training no matter who was the "victim" of the nipping. And it is important that everyone is on the same page, since it does little good for a biting puppy to be ignored by one of his humans, but able to move on to the next to play and to possibly nip again. This training should last just about 10 minutes, but it should extend even longer if the pup has gone about his own business and is not focused on his owners. One key element the 10 minutes must be a time in which the Pug is very aware that he is no longer receiving attention. Once that time is up, allow interaction, and any time that the Pug nips or bite, immediately begin again. It is important to be very consistent with this.When done each and every time, training can be successful in as little as 2 weeks. Is Teething an Issue? Your Pug may be biting due to teething. While most owners do refer to this as biting, this is actually a gnawing in an attempt to sooth the pain and discomfort that a pup will experience when his teeth are growing in and gums are very sensitive and sore. At this stage in life, a Pug will chew on just about anything that he can get his mouth on. He or she will not care if it is your fingers, your new shoes or electrical cords! There are several ways to help your Pug dog get through this time without damaging your home and belongings. One element that separates this from the above biting issues is that a puppy should be given an option. When chewing on an un-approved object, that object should be taken away and replaced with a chew toy. If the dog seems to be having a really hard time, ice cubes plain or flavored can offer great relief. In addition, toys chilled in the freezer can take the edge off. Always praise good chewing habits while discouraging bad ones. And if the Pug pup nips at hands or feet, immediately follow the training previously explained for biting. In regard to any household items that you absolutely do not need on floor level: remove them or place them high enough so that your dog cannot reach them. Be sure to cover electrical wires with plastic shielding. Allowing a your Pug dog to have an ice cube will be very helpful. Placing dog toys in the freezer for an hour or two, and then offering them will help. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. However, whilst Pugs tend to have good temperaments, as puppies they use their mouths to learn and will bite anything in sight. In this guide I will explain how you can overcome Pug puppy biting problems, despite the challenges involved. He has never been an aggressive biter, but he would nip a lot as a puppy. Unfortunately, a lot of the biting was down to me, as I would do rough play with him and almost encourage the nipping. But, as my puppy got older, those playful nips started to hurt. Please do take all my tips in, as I believe it to be the most detailed solution you will find for stopping a Pug biting that you see anywhere on the Internet. But first, why do Pugs bite you? Most will let you know they are scared with a little bark, letting you know to keep away. If you continue to advance and upset them, the growl can then become a snap and possible bite. But, with an older and more aggressive Pug, that bite could be very painful, particularly to young children. Do Pugs bite a lot? When Pugs are puppies, they do tend to do a lot of biting. Why Pug puppies bite? The teething phase is when you will notice your Pug puppy biting the most. Some Pugs will also bite a bit too enthusiastically when they are playing with you. This is a hangover from their days with their siblings where mouth play would have been used. You can stop a Pug biting you when they teethe by giving them things to chew on. As mentioned earlier, I would play with my own puppy and he would go for my hands with his teeth. I turned this into a game, which then became an issue as I had to train him out of it as he got older. Pug puppies can also bite as a way of showing their dominance over you. Whatever the reason is for your Pug puppy biting, it needs to be addressed sooner rather than later. If not, you will have problems with your adult Pug thinking that biting is acceptable. Also, if your Pug suddenly starts biting for no obvious reason please go to the vet immediately — it could be the sign of a new illness or injury. How to stop your Pug puppy from biting Here are different ways that really work if you need to know how you can stop a Pug from biting as a puppy. Squeal like a puppy bite inhibition When you see puppies playing together in their litter, they will let out a tiny squealing sound when bitten by sibling. The puppy that bit will hear the squeal and then tends to back off. As Pug owners we can imitate this behavior! If your Pug puppy bites you and gives you a nip, make a high-pitched squeal sound. You might find your puppy seeks re-assurance and comfort, but the key is to not give it. Instead, ignore them for a few moments, for example; turn your back to them. This might sound mean but if you want your Pug to stop biting it can work very well. The quicker you begin using this technique the sooner your Pug will biting you and your family. All it will do is make your dog scared and could lead to more biting out of fear. I made this mistake with my own puppy, as would push him away playfully, but that just encouraged the biting more. They will want more of the play, so will bite back again. But you are training them into thinking your hands are fair game. Instead you should use chew toys for this type of play. If you can focus their attention onto a toy and not your hands, they will learn that fingers and hands are not there to be bitten. You can also see the prices by clicking the photo below. Puppies will often eat things they should not do, so you will need to hook stuff out of their mouth. You will also need to check the health of their teeth and gums. One of the best ways you can train a Pug puppy to not bite your fingers in their mouth is to use a treat or snack. Let them see it, and then use your fingers to pop it into their mouth and out again. Over time, they should get comfortable letting you put fingers in their mouth without biting back. Train your Pug puppy to not bite over food One of the most common times a Pug puppy will bite is when food is in the equation. Puppies tend to be very overprotective of food, which they learned when in the litter as they had to fight for nutrition. Unfortunately, it will be behavior that can extend to occur over their food bowl. If your Pug is showing food aggression, then you need to train the puppy to learn you are in charge and can pick their bowl up and put it back down at any time — with no aggression from the dog. What you do is put a bowl in front of your Pug then quickly remove it again. Dog trainers tell you to do the loud squeal when the Pug puppy bites you then quickly place your thumb in their mouth, pressing it underneath their tongue. You can then put a finger under the chin. Hold this position for 10 seconds if you can, but not hard enough to hurt the puppy. The Pug will not like it, and it could mean they stop biting you and will learn for next time. Let your Pug know you are in charge Older Pugs that bite will often do it to try to exert dominance over their owner. They can also bite due to jealousy, or when you tell them to do something like get off your chair or bed. You need to train your Pug to realize you are the pack leader and the dominant one. Alphas like us owners, should not be bitten by pack members lower down the chain. Being assertive will help, but often simply rewarding good behavior is enough to get a dog to bend to your will. Socialise your Pug puppy with other dogs Puppies will learn from each other and older dogs. We often look after puppies for our friends. Our friends will often say what a positive impact they see in their young pups after spending a day in the company of our now older dog. And that can include not as much biting. The sooner they can get used to things like this, the sooner they should learn not to bite out of fear. Keep your Pug on a leash when exposing them to new things and noises. Always supervise your puppy when young children are present A Pug that bites a child is a massive problem. There are also specialist animal behaviourists who can help with biting and fear aggression in Pugs. Something to consider though is how long your Pug could be teething for. It can last up until they are 8 months of age, so biting and chewing things is to be expected during this phase. The dangers of a dog bite Adult Pugs that start biting can be dangerous. Whilst they are a small breed, people can get ill from infections. For example, around half of all dog bites will infect the person with bacteria, possibly leading to illness. The result is an open, jagged wound. If the wound becomes infected, it is often severe. The No. You may need hospitalization and require intravenous antibiotics. What do so when bitten by a Pug If you get bitten by a Pug and it leaves a bleeding wound rather than just an abrasion, take the following steps: Press down on the bite wound. This might mean that blood comes out, but that is good as it might help bacteria to come away from the wound. Use clean water and a mild soup to clean the bite wound. Use a clean cloth to press down on the bite wound again as this will help to slow and stop any bleeding. If you have it, apply antibiotic cream to the dog bite wound and then dress it with a new or sterile bandage. If serious, contact a health professional for advice. Conclusion To conclude, some of the quickest ways you can stop a Pug from biting is to make sure you use positive and negative affirmations. In other words, you praise the good, and discourage the bad. Whichever method you try to use, and can be a combination, just make sure that you are consistent when training your Pug puppy to not bite. Tell your friends and family to use the same methods too if they have contact with the puppy. Ultimately, unless you a clear and obvious to your Pug, the puppy will not understand that his biting behavior is a bad thing. You need to take the role of the pack leader. You might also like…. Proven Ways to End The Nipping! February 24, by Susan Puppy biting is a part of the process of dog ownership, but it can also be frustrating and excruciatingly painful. If you have a pug puppy, you have most likely wondered how I get my Pug Puppy to stop biting? This breed is known to be stubborn. However, you can stop the painful nipping problems with the proper training knowledge without using any painful training collar like choke, prong, and electric collars. You want to address the symptom, not the cause. As mentioned above, puppies bite for several reasons, but the most common reasons are teething and interaction with the world. Other reasons your puppy keeps biting you could be: Fear: If you happen upon a puppy that is startled, their first reaction may be to bite or nip at you. During the exploration process, they learn how hard they can bite while interacting with humans and other dogs. Playtime: Young puppies and older Pugs if not appropriately trained will nip as they play. Both puppies and dogs use their mouths to interact with people and dogs. Puppy Biting vs. Puppy Nipping vs. The bite may break the skin and lead to infections that a medical doctor may need to treat. Biting Biting is when a puppy or full-grown dog bit down hard on someone or something. Instead, it is a sharp pinch. It is still painful and can cause injury to people who have thinner skin than dogs do. Nipping can also cause holes and tears in your expensive clothing. Small breed dogs are known to be ankle biters. If ignored, your dog will do this behavior to the mailman, neighbors, and other people, which will cause significant problems for you. Mouthing Mouthing is when a dog or puppy gnaws or puts its mouth around your hand, arm, or another part of your body. Both puppies and dogs will use their mouths to pull at your shoe, clothing, etc. When Do Pugs Stop Teething? Puppy nipping and biting can last until your puppy is five months old or until they have their full set of grown-up teeth. Do Pugs Bite? Instead, they use their teeth, barking, and body language to let us know their feelings. At some point in their life, your Pug will show signs of aggression or fear by barking as a way to let you know to stay away. The final stage will be your dog snapping and possibly even biting you. Unlike other breeds, Pugs are a gentle breed that loves being around people, even children. Is Pug Dog Bite Dangerous? Puppies are prone to biting, and while not life-threatening, it is still excruciating. You may need a bandaid or ice to soothe the cut. There are several humane ways to train your puppy to stop biting. With the proper training, time, and patience, you can train your Pug to stop sinking their teeth into you. How to train a Pug Puppy Not to Bite? Here are several steps you can use to stop your Pug puppy from biting. Make Sure Your Puppy Has Access to Chew Toys If your puppy is teething, make sure she has access to several types of chew toys with lots of different textures. Teething puppies will bite and chew on anything they can find, even your hands and fingers. A great way to keep your puppy occupied is to give them a chew toy instead. It puts their attention on the toy and teaches them what they can chew on. Say goodbye to painful bites.We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Get them used to you touching their face, paws, ears, tail, etc. While Pugs love to be pet especially belly rubs , not all dogs enjoy you touching certain parts of their body. Some dogs are sensitive to people touching their paws and will nip when touched. It could be because their feet hurt or are ticklish when they are touched? The more you get them used to let you touch them as a puppy, the easier it will be to cut their nails as they get older. A tired puppy means less biting! Just remember not to overdo it. Also, make sure not to exercise them in the heat of the day. For instance, if you know your pups about to bite, you can move your hand away and put a toy in its mouth. If your puppy bites all the time when you bend down to greet them, have their favorite toy in your hand. Your excited puppy will bite the toy instead of your flesh, which is what you want. Most people make the mistake of correcting unwanted behavior after they occur. After doing it hundreds of times, your Pug would sit before they greeted you, and the unwanted behavior would be gone. If this is your puppy, give them the treat with an open palm. When your puppy becomes overly excited, grab their favorite snack, and ask them to sit. It teaches your puppy to want to interact with you and helps you raise a well-behaved dog at the same time. Giving them the treat too early will only reinforce the biting and unwanted behavior. The treat training method teaches your dog to respond to you rather than merely behaving impulsively. The puppy backs away, even for a second before the fierce playing resumes. As a Pug owner, you can mimic this behavior! When your puppy bites too hard, make a high-pitched yelp or squeal sound. The key to this type of training is to ignore your puppy for a while. The training sounds harsh but does work very well, especially for this breed. Pugs are companion dogs, and they want to please you. Some people make the mistake of biting the puppy back to show them how it feels. One jumps and bites on the other dog, and eventually, the other dog gives and starts biting them. Before you know it, the two dogs are fighting, and the people have to break it up before it escalates and someone gets hurt. Teach Them Not to Bite Over Food Pugs love to eat, and one of the most common reasons a puppy will bite is when they feel you or other pets threaten their food. Start by petting your puppy while they are eating. Keep repeating the process every time at mealtime. Quitting too early will cause your puppy to revert to its old habits of biting. Puppy biting can take anywhere from a couple of days, weeks, or even months with extreme biters. Instead of losing your cool, take them for a walk to tire them up. Puppies enjoy being around people and will quickly learn to behave correctly. After all, the goal is to get them chewing and biting on toys, not your flesh. Check out some of the best crates for Pugs that are perfect for sleeping and training. When they calm down, you can let them out of the kennel. Your Pug will fear you and cringe or run away when you approach her. She may respond defensively and attempt to bite you because she sees you as someone who will hurt her. Your puppy may see your gentle tap or slap as an invitation to pay, which will set your training back. Training time will become playtime and will be more likely to bite or nip at you. Never play tug-of-war or wrestling games with your puppy. These types of games encourage biting, jumping, grabbing, chewing, etc. Also, avoid using choking, electric, and prong collars as they will be painful to your pup. Final Word? This guide will help you properly train your puppy, whether dealing with teething or nipping issues. It takes time to train your Pug puppy not to bite. Implementing proper training can help strengthen your bond, which will help your dog become a well-behaved adult. However, when they realize how much work goes into training them, many are surrendered to shelters. You now have the tools you need to teach your Pug puppy to stop biting. Good Luck! Email There is nothing more gregarious than pug puppies. Seemingly born and breed with boundless enthusiasm, these little fellas are sure to bring in more sweet cuddles your way. However, along with the fun and the attention, some pug puppies tend to bite. Some may end up hurting others without even trying when they get carried away during play or when fear for something sets in. It is important to cut this rambunctious behavior before it gets out of control. Take Charge—Consistently! Pug puppies belong to a naturally good-natured dog breed. While it is very rare for them to bite in an aggressive manner, training them how not to bite will also curve their nipping or chewing. Here are ways how: While training is important, it is also vital that such be done consistently. You can engage in social isolation or time outs by walking away and ignoring the pup. It also helps to cry out when your pug bit too hard. This somehow gives the pug puppy the idea what is not acceptable. Young tots, for instance, tend to be very playful. They run and shriek engaging pugs to be hyperactive thereby, adding to the problem at hand. It is also wise to use some anti-bite or anti-chew deterrent. It can be easily washed off your hands, too. Consider the idea that your pug puppy may be teething. Thus, a teething toy can come handy during training. Try to calm the pup by talking in a gentle voice while stroking it. But remember to keep your hand away from easy preying of its mouth. Make sure to stop the game when not in play. It is important to keep safe during training. A biting pug pup must be handled with utmost gentleness and care consistently. Rough play will not only encourage it to bite, it also ascertains such behavior as it grows. Keep them in a fenced surrounding when you have young children in tow. Never go to the point of threatening a young pug with rods or sticks. Preying on their fear will not help in the long run. Like a small child, a reward is essential when learning how to train pug puppy not to bite. Pug pups naturally crave for attention. Preventive Measure Is Best Becoming a new pug parent is an enjoyable task. There is so much to enjoy ahead of you! Knowing how to train pug puppy not to bite is but a small pebble in your shoe. It requires patience and persistence but most importantly, consistency. The key is to realize that teaching your pet not to bite is your responsibility. You would not want it to grow with behavioral issues, would you? Your precious little pup has turned into a vampire. How do you stop it? What are the best tactics to prevent Pug biting, chewing, and gnawing on people and property? Why do Pugs bite in the first place, anyway? Do Pugs bite their owners? Pugs have been known to bite their owners. Here are some signs that you might have a biter: They nip at you during playtime. They try to lunge and bite people or animals. You come home to destroyed objects such as chewed-up shoes or remotes. Another sign of a biter or potential biter is if they use their mouth a lot in general. However, if you notice that your Pug puts everything in its mouth, it might have become a habit that you need to break. Why is my Pug biting? For example, do they bite things when they get angry or stressed? This is the equivalent of a toddler having a temper tantrum. It can also be compounded by things like separation anxiety where your Pug self-soothes by gnawing on objects with your scent. Do they have any medical issues? Last but not least, your Pug might simply have a habit of chewing on things. How do I get my Pug to stop biting? There are many tips and tricks to stop a Pug biting, and you can employ a little trial and error to figure out which ones work for you. Ignore them whenever they bite. If your Pug is biting to get attention, take the attention away. Buy them toys or teething objects. Get them used to your hands being around their mouth. Some dogs respond instinctively to the perceived threat of a hand near their face and mouth. You can re-condition this response by slowly and incrementally petting them closer to their snouts. You can also deliver more treats by hand or palm! Another option is enrolling in obedience courses such as the ones available at the Pupford Academy. They have a multitude of training modules that can help with biting, leash walking, crate training, and more. With patience, dedication, and a lot of love, you can de-fang your vampire and turn them back into a sweet and snuggly pup. Good luck!
Crate training is a great option for leaving our dogs temporarily while our backs are turned. But what if your dog needs a little more exercise and movement than that? Or you need to leave your dog unattended for a slightly longer period of time. Or allowing you to leave them for a short period of time safely but still able to stretch their legs and play. The Best Indoor Dog Playpen Do you want your dog near you, but safely out of the way while you complete a task or have unsuitable small kids toys out? Then temporarily popping up an indoor dog playpen can be really helpful. With 2 easy access doors, it is simple to use and convenient in a variety of locations. This outdoor playpen has stakes that can be secured into the ground for safety. Portable Dog Playpens Another handy use of the dog playpen is on the move. Taking your dog on holiday, visiting friends or just keeping him secure in various parts of your home or back yard? Then a portable dog playpen might be just what you need. This dog playpen with floor zipper bottom is a spacious tent that can be customized by making it soft and cozy inside with blankets and toys. The mesh material is designed to promote better circulation of airflow and to keep outdoor critters and bugs out. The mesh design is waterproof as well, making this an ideal outdoor playpen. It lso comes in a good large dog playpen size! With zippers to easily zip up the door and a removable top, it is also water resistant and can be used in or out of doors. The inside is made of oxford cloth and it has two zipper openings for easy in and out access. The bottom also unzips. It folds up easily and comes with a carrying case. These outdoor puppy pens are ideal for when you need to do some gardening or work outdoors. They are also very handy if you are staying somewhere that is unfenced or has access to livestock. Not to mention safe for your pet and durable, with rust-resistant coating. It can also be used with other OxGord playpens so that it can be expanded to suit even the biggest area and liveliest dog! Choose the 40 inch option for a Labrador, and get as many panels as you can fit! It features a durable and shiny black finish that looks great outdoors in a yard. This playpen also features a double latch for security and a premium design that is stable and protective so your dog is safe and contained. Metal Dog Playpens Traditionally dog playpens were normally made of metal. Its eight 2 foot wide panels can be configured into different shapes and sizes. Each configuration is a 16 square foot enclosed area when completed, which provides plenty of running room for your precious pup. The wire design is also safe and durable, so your dog stays contained inside and you can leave them with confidence. Go with the 48 inch height option for adult Labradors. It is collapsible and can be set up or broken down as needed, and can be used in or outdoors. It measures 64 inches, which is more than enough room to contain a large dog. Plastic Dog Playpens Plastic playpens are durable, easy to transport and lighter weight than their metal counterparts. It can fit puppies and small to large dogs of all sizes, and can be used both indoor and outdoors. Measuring 21 square feet of exercise space, the IRIS playpen is durable and rust-proof, and features non-skid rubber feet so that your flooring is protected. Check it out on Amazon here. This is a large dog playpen indoor area that you can customize to train puppies or just have an open space for your dog to exercise inside the home. They make it easier to keep the area clean and any potential hazards away from your pet. The mesh screen allows you to watch your pet and keep an eye on them, and the waterproof design means you can keep it outdoors so your puppy can get some fresh air and fun in the sun. All of the panels are zippers, meaning your pup will stay in safely while getting their daily dose of fresh air. It offers a great combination of durability and mobility. Zip front door and top make for easy access and give your pup the freedom to go in and out as they please. Perfect for camping, traveling and keeping your puppy contained indoors when needed. This dog playpen is sturdy. Small Dog Playpens Do you need a small dog playpen for your young puppy? Are you short on space and need somewhere to keep him safe temporarily? Then here are a couple of great little puppy playpen choices. This small puppy playpen is portable and lightweight. Water resistant, this playpen also has a removable zipper top. Great for indoors, outdoors and travel, this playpen is super easy to setup and breakdown, requiring virtually no room for storage. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. I did go to several baby stores, Wally world, etc and all of them were too small and bulky. After having looked at Tractor Supplies website I decided to drive out and see for myself. After speaking with a very helpful sale s woman dog owner I cam home with this. H - Tractor Supply Co. We also use a Midwest crate that we house him at night. When Romeo gets a little bigger I plan on moving it back into the foyer and when needed connecting this barrier to it. Using the supplied latches and some medium sized office clips it holds securely. This way he will have his crate for sleeping with a gallon water bottle and a play pen to get around in. Using this play pen is a first and we have seen some serious benefits already. It keeps him out of trouble! Leaving it where he can see us and our other dog keeps his anxiety way down along with a pillow and toys. Food training with another dog is simplified where he is in the same area as the other dog but is kept in his pen to eat his own food with no wandering. It is light weight and ultra portable where my small wife can easily operate it, fold it up and transport it. It comes with stakes if you want to stake to the ground outside and I think you can order extra panels but they did not have those in the store. The door works surprisingly well and latches exactly like their crate we have. Keeping a large pillow inside keeps him from scooting the pen to far out of shape to make it collapse or run off with it and so far so good. I choose the 36" tall pen as it will remain tall enough for him until 6 months of age but he may be too heavy by then, we'll see. Being a tall man I can reach over the top to grab a toy or place him down in but I wouldn't recommend this unless you are 6'4" and beyond. This is not meant for permanent use, large dogs or multiple dogs by any stretch. I've owned MANY dogs from 8 weeks on and wanted something where I was not chasing him all over for over watching. Couldn't stand locking him in a crate for "time out" breaks as that always turned into eruptions of whaling. Its not cute or pretty and it isn't supposed to be but it does work. One benefit to this design is that the one gallon water bottle we have will work on the wire pen. If need be on can be hung and used very easily link below of the one we have. Sorry but I did not weigh it or remember to look on the box as to how much but it was one of the criteria for purchase. When home and assembled I had my wife fold it up and then pick it up to see what she thought. Good to go and plenty light enough for her to maneuver. There's nothing to assemble for exception of these weird little panel braces if you want to use them. They are for straightening out two panels but were unnecessarily difficult to use and were thrown away. There are four "latches" that are smallish leash style clasps that are for joining two ends together. That's how I figured out that the black metal office binders hold it together very firmly were the dog cannot get them undone. Check Price On Chewy When it comes to pets, our pets are like our children. It is essential that we keep them safe and sound, not only for the safety of our pets but for the safety of our family as well. That is why it is important to get the best crates for our pets. This crate is made with a lightweight, yet sturdy aluminum frame, which makes it easy to transport. It has three zippered doors, which allow your pet multiple ways to enter and exit their new home. The door openings are also large enough for your pet to see and breathe. The frame is also easy to fold and collapse, making it perfect for travel. This crate is also a great option for training, which is why it is perfect for a medium-sized dog. If your dog is older than six months or weighs more than fifty pounds, you should consider purchasing a large crate. If your dog is under six months or weighs less than fifty pounds, you should consider purchasing a small crate. Not only are they an essential part of the training process, but they can also be used to keep your pet while you are away. Most dogs need a place to sleep and a place to stay contained, so a pet crate is an essential part of your pet care routine. The crate is constructed to be foldable, which makes it easy to store, and the telescopic legs can be adjusted to fit all different sizes of dogs. The crate is also easy to clean, which is a must for any pet owner, plus it comes in four different colors. This crate is designed to be versatile and able to handle multiple sizes of dogs. This crate is made with a strong metal frame and its doors open with just a push of a button. It also comes with a lock and key, making it a convenient option for travel. Its height is adjustable from 23 to 36 inches, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your dog. The interior of this crate is spacious and comfortable, and it includes a plastic tray for your dog to eat off of. This crate is easy to clean, and it is suitable for large-sized dogs. Pros A simple assembly process makes it easy to use Can be used for potty training You can fold it easily Durability is the hallmark of MidWest Life Cons Compared to other dog crates, it is heavier Best Pens For Labrador Retrievers: People are always asking which is the best pen for Labrador Retrievers. Labrador Retrievers are definitely some of the most popular dogs in the world, so I need to find the best pen for them. This article will take you through some recommendations for what might be the best pen for your Labrador Retriever. Featuring a spacious .The wide-opening door lets your pet in and out without you having to open the whole door, which is great for potty time. It also features a non-skid floor that provides a safe place to sleep, and a secure plastic clip to secure the door. With this pen, your pet will have a secure and safe place to call home. Pros Eight interlocking panels make set-up easy A skid-resistant panel is included to protect your flooring Outdoor and indoor use is possible with this versatile pen It has a locking Grip-n-Twist latch Cons.
Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.Top 30 Smartest Dog Breeds In The World If you're a dog lover, you've probably heard the age-old debate: which dog breeds are the smartest? While all dogs have their own unique intelligence and personality, some breeds have proven to be consistently brilliant over time. In this guide, we'll explore the top 30 smartest dog breeds ranked, from problem-solving whizzes to trainable and intuitive pups. We've done our research to provide you with an updated and informative.These pooches are joyful, lively, eager to please dogs. They are adventurous, kind, family-oriented pups who love hiking, swimming, canine games, sports and any, and all, family activities. These puppies are merry and bouncy little marshmallows. They are cuddly and sweet pups who love running around, playing, making friends and are very enthusiastic learners. The breed is divided into 3 recognized categories: Toy Poodle; Mini; Standard. Although they differ in size, one thing is for sure: they are glamorous companion pets. The experience was perfect with Pawtastic Poodles. Marnica was very responsive and experienced. I reserved Echo when she was about 4 weeks and took her home at about 8 weeks. During these time, Marnica took pictures and videos of Echo every week and sent to me. She also helped us find a flight nanny and the price was very reasonable and the process was smooth. Echo came with all the documents and a package full of toys and treats. Echo was really beautiful, playful and sweet. I love her and thanks Pawtastic Poodles! Adeline C. My experience was quick and easy! I actually placed a deposit before puppies were born I wanted first pick on chocolate girls! Meeka was always available to answer questions, sent weekly pictures and then some, was honest and upfront with everything! I definitely recommend her puppies are not only adorable, but also loving. Not only that, the care package she sends you away with was so amazing! I will be getting another in the near future. Thank you! Porch G Pawtastic Poodles in one word! From the looks and quality of their dogs to the great service when it came down to the many questions I had as a buyer. Greg K. I truly recommend Pawtastic Poodles. She was so well socialized, was great with my children and our other dog. She was practically potty trained at 8 weeks old. The whole process was effortless and I loved the constant updates and pictures while we were waiting to take her home. Scott-Lindsey D. Questions about Poodle puppies for sale in Atlanta GA? We have answers. Give me an overview of Poodle puppies for sale in Atlanta GA. Poodle prices in Atlanta and other cities in Georgia can vary from breeder to breeder. Factors that can affect the price include breeder experience and coat color. By searching through our network, we can match you with puppies that are close to your location and match your budget. Do your breeders arrange travel for Georgia Poodles out of state? Yes, they do! Our partner breeders and businesses are total pros and can arrange out-of-state travel for your new best bud. You can arrange to pick up your new puppy at a major airport near you. However, that may not be even necessary. The Uptown network is wide so the right Poodle for you could be right in your very city! How do you screen miniature Poodle breeders in Atlanta, Georgia? We receive hundreds of applications from prospective breeders and businesses every week. Vetted breeders take our legally-binding Breeder Pledge which helps uphold high standards for breeding animal care. You can find many Poodle puppies online but you will never be sure where they are born and bred. Puppy mills and backyard breeders take advantage of the internet to sell puppies that are in poor health. What is a puppy mill like for miniature Poodle Atlanta, Georgia? Ethical businesses take good care of their dogs and puppies. The opposite is true for puppy mills who churn out as many litters of puppies as they can at the lowest cost possible. The result are puppies that are either sick or have serious behavioral issues that are extremely tough or expensive to treat later on. Are there any miniature Poodle puppies in Atlanta, Georgia for sale now? Search for your new best friend on Uptown Puppies today. In no time, your family will be meeting its newest furry member. What kind of dogs are mini Poodle puppies Atlanta, Georgia? All kinds of poodles possess the impressive intelligence that they are well-known for. Because they are very smart, Poodles can be trained to participate in dog sports, entertainment, tracking and herding, and in other support roles. Can I trust you to find me healthy miniature Poodle puppies in Atlanta, Georgia? But we are different from other online marketplaces. Uptown only works with ethical breeders and businesses who truly care about dogs. Check out our Reviews page and meet the families who have found their newest family member through Uptown Puppies.
Found on the street, homeless, hungry, and maybe sick. Or worse dropped off by his family for being old or unwanted. Shivering in a cold strange place that smells of bleach and other dogs that overwhelm him. The endless barking day and night. Wondering what happened -- what did he do wrong to be put in such a place? What will happen? How many days until he feels the needle that takes him to sleep forever? Or, will he be one of the very few to be found by someone looking for a new family member or maybe a rescue that understands the need to help him. Do they know his breed and are they good at finding just the right home? Will he be lucky enough to be placed into a forever home where he will find that he has a new family to be a member of? In reality, once lost or turned away from their family and left with a broken heart, dogs go into a self-protective shield. Once they realize they don't need to be afraid anymore, their true personality blossoms like a beautiful rose. A truly awesome experience to witness.All dogs are hands-on evaluated. We are a foster-based rescue and all dogs live in private homes prior to adoption. We DO adopt outside of the State of Arizona, but you must be willing to travel to Arizona to meet a dog and us. Home visits are required and may be accomplished by a local rescue or a video call with one of our staff members. The adopters are responsible for coming to Phoenix, meeting the dog and then taking him or her home with them. These are all purebred German Shepherd Dogs.Because they are! There is a tremendous degree of variation within this breed, which is why we go to such lengths to ensure that the dog in which you are interested is, indeed, the right dog for you, your household and your current lifestyle. GSDs vary in structure, type and temperament, contingent upon the lines from which they were bred, coupled with their level of training and socialization. While you may prefer a certain "look," take care to make temperament, drive levels and the dog's history, the most important factors in choosing the right companion.First and foremost, we are all about the DOG. We do not place a dog into a home just because we need to make space for a new rescue. We put the dog's best interest at heart at all times and will not place a dog into a home that is not suitable. They are set, taking into account the dog's age, training level, medical condition s if any and other factors. Some dogs require that hundreds of dollars and many weeks, even months, be spent before they are ready for adoption; others do not. Adoption fees are used, not only to rescue and place the dog you are personally adopting, but to aid in the future rescue and rehabilitation of other deserving dogs. Adoption fees are necessary; without fees our rescue efforts would quickly come to an end. Office expenses add up as well. Rescue is an expensive undertaking, both financially and emotionally, and is motivated solely by our passion for German Shepherd Dogs. We are volunteers. We volunteer our time countless hours every day , and we are by no means wealthy. We do not make a profit and seldom break even. Adoption fees come in and go right back out to the next rescued dog. Once a questionnaire is submitted, you will be contacted usually within 24 hours to set up an introduction with the dog s that you are interested in if they are a suitable match for you and your family. All owners are required to sign an Owner Surrender form prior to placement. Raising dogs for you and your family. Call or text .Every breed has different requirements, whether the space they must have or the amount of exercise they need. If you are not certain yet, check out our essential White German Shepherd breed info to find out everything about the White German Shepherd. How to find White German Shepherd puppies for sale? When buying a puppy, it is important to consider not only the pet but also the breeder. Because a responsible breeder will ensure their dogs come from the strongest bloodlines and have the best start to life. Ask about the health and temperament of their White German Shepherd pups as well as their living environment. But also find out about the breeder's practices and commitments. A good breeder will be happy to answer everything before you decide. After all, they will want to ensure that their dog goes to a good home. When you have done your research and got all the info you need, you can then choose the right breeder with confidence. To help ensure you choose a responsible breeder, all the White German Shepherd kennels you see listed here are verified by Pets4You. You will also find that the best breeders will provide a guarantee with their dog. This information, and more, is available on the breeder's website within Pets4You. Browse through our dog breeder directory with complete breeder profiles and current puppies for sale to find your dream dog. Disclaimer It is the duty of every person that is considering buying a puppy or dog to confirm all the information provided to them by the breeder is accurate. Pets4You makes no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the condition of any dogs offered for sale, the standards or practices of any breeder, the quality of their canines, or the accuracy of any information contained within our site. Pets4You does not endorse, recommend, or guarantee a particular kennel, breeder or dogs listed on the Pets4You website. For Buyers.
how much should i wash my bernedoodle puppy - The costs will be a bit higher at first while you get your dog the shots it requires and pay for the frequent visits to the vet. We also recommend getting your dog spayed or neutered unless you are a professional breeder, and it might even be required as part of your contract if you purchase from a breeder. Once your dog is an adult, it will not require as many vet visits and will only need booster shots every few years, so the average monthly costs will be much lower. Experts recommend getting all of the shots, but your dog is only legally required to get the rabies shot. We recommend purchasing a high-quality brand with real meat like chicken, turkey, or salmon listed as the first ingredient. The protein in meat will help build muscle and provide the energy your dog needs to stay healthy. High protein diets will also help your dog stay full longer, and it will be less likely to come looking for food. Foods with corn as the top ingredient are mostly empty calories that will leave your pet feeling hungry and looking for more food, potentially causing it to become obese. During the shedding seasons of spring and fall, you will likely need to increase the brushing to several times a week to help keep the fur off your furniture and floor. Professional grooming can also help with teeth brushing and nail clipping. This medication can also help prevent heartworm. Spot Pet Insurance offers customizable plans that you can adapt to your breed's specific needs. Many people forgo pet insurance, but it can be a great way to protect yourself from a huge expense while making sure your Labrador Retriever has the best healthcare possible. Accidents and serious illnesses can occur at any time, and many procedures can cost thousands of dollars which makes the price of insurance more than worth it, especially if you get it while your dog is still a puppy. It can chew up stuffed animals quickly, so they can get expensive, but there are plenty of options for a chewing dog, like the Lab. Another option is to purchase a subscription to a monthly service like the Bark Box that sends your dog new toys and activities for as long as you keep up your subscription. A full-grown dog only requires food and flea and tick medication to stay healthy, a few toys to play with, and treats here and there. Additional Costs to Factor In If you like to go on long vacations, you might need to factor in the additional costs of traveling with a dog. Many rental cars do not allow pets or will charge you extra, and the same is true for hotels. Owning a Labrador Retriever on a Budget Your Labrador Retriever will be relatively inexpensive once you get the medical things out of the way. A high-quality food may seem more expensive, but it will help keep your dog full so that it will eat less. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Saving Money on Labrador Retriever Care The best way to save money on healthcare when raising your Labrador Retriever is to keep it a healthy weight by following portion recommendations on the food you serve and by helping them get enough exercise. Obesity can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues that can shorten the lifespan of your pet. After the initial cost of the puppy , you will need to pay a few hundred dollars to get it spayed or neutered and get the shots it needs. After that, you will only need to provide food and shelter with the occasional booster shot. We hope you have enjoyed reading over this guide, and that it has helped answer your questions. If we have helped you create a budget that allows you to get one of these amazing pets, please share this guide on how much it costs to own a Labrador Retriever on social media. Featured Image Credit: scott, Pixabay Contents. Since the Labrador could grow to a hefty size, its yearly upkeep still falls within the expected price range of other big dogs. Always take your puppy to regular vet checkups, even if it looks like the very picture of health. Though these things are not high on the priority list, consider them nice-to-haves once the budget allows. Besides, we all want the best for our four-legged friends, and that alone is reason enough for most of us! Boarding Kennels: This service is a lifesaver for owners who have to travel for days or weeks at a time and cannot bring their dog along with them. Professional Grooming: As we said earlier, Labrador Retrievers shed a lot, so an afternoon at the groomer will help keep your pooch looking clean and tidy. You can put off spending on these things until the budget allows. However, give some serious thought to investing in an emergency fund, as this would take a big worry off your mind in case of any unexpected trips to the vet. Though it is tempting to buy a dog from pet stores or backyard breeders because of their low puppy prices, getting Lab puppies from a reputable source is still a more responsible and ethical choice. Here is a list of responsible breeders where you can find Labrador puppies for sale: Rhumbline Retrievers — This New York-based kennel has been breeding quality Labrador Retriever puppies since , and a good number of their dogs have participated in agility, obedience, and hunting tests at the national level. Due to their commitment to only breed dogs of the highest quality, they have limited puppies for sale at a time; thus, expect a long waitlist. All their puppies are tested for genetic disorders such as elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. They raise show-quality Labs and have championship bloodline puppies as well. For a more comprehensive list of reputable Labrador Retriever breeders, take a peek at our 10 best Labrador breeders article. All their dogs are fostered and given medical care before being turned over to their new family. Based in Colorado and licensed by the Pet Animal Care Facilities, they foster and provide medical care to Labs until they can get adopted. American Lab Rescue — This organization makes use of foster homes to rehabilitate and care for their rescued dogs. For your adoption application to be approved, they will require a fenced-in yard and will also do a home visit to your place before releasing a dog. Alternatively, you can also check out our top 10 picks of Labrador Retriever Rescues and our dog adoption guide. The Labrador Retriever is popular for its great temperament and personality. Unfortunately, most people fail to expect its high energy level as well, which is why some Labs find themselves in animal shelters. That said, doing your research about the Labrador Retriever before buying or adopting a puppy is necessary to make sure that the Lab is the best dog for you. Money-Saving Tips for Labrador Retriever Owners We all want to give our dog the best life possible, and if we can do that without breaking the bank, then even better! The trick is finding the right balance on which expenses to let go of and which ones to keep. To help you achieve this, here are some money-saving tips for Labrador Retriever owners: DIY dog food and treats. Not only is this a more practical option, but this is also healthier for your dog. Practice your grooming skills. Watch a good tutorial and practice your skills on your pooch. Invest in high-quality supplies. You may want to scrimp on supplies such as food and water bowls, but investing in high-quality and durable essentials will save you more money in the long run. Training Labrador Retrievers is a fairly easy task, even for novice dog owners. A lot of great tutorials can be found on the internet, and being the intelligent dogs that they are, they will learn all their tricks in no time! Like pet insurance, regular vet visits will save you from procedures and medications that could cost thousands of dollars later. Pet quality pups are affordable and budget-friendly to most people who are looking for an intelligent and well-tempered canine companion. However, like most dogs, their lifetime cost would still require you to spend considerable money. As such, think long and hard about the commitment and financial implications of taking in a dog. These canines make great family pets, even for those looking for their first dog. So, if your budget is enough to shoulder the price and long-term costs of the Labrador Retriever, then it might just be the pooch for you! Tell us in the comment box below! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Breeds The link has been copied! Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. As an admirer of one of these lovely furry companions, you may question how much it costs to buy and own a Labrador Retriever. We'll explore the upfront price of purchasing a puppy and the routine costs associated with pet ownership. We'll also cover various factors that can impact the cost of a Lab and provide tips on how to reduce the cost of owning one. The cost of a Lab can vary depending on several factors such as its age, color, purpose show or field , whether it's a purebred, and more. Routine Care Expenses Owning a Labrador Retriever requires some routine care expenses, which should be taken into account when considering the overall cost of having a pet. One of the essential expenses is veterinary care, which includes routine check-ups, vaccinations, and emergency medical care. Labs are prone to specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia , eye problems, and skin allergies, which may require additional medical attention and expenses. Another routine care expense for Labs is feeding. As they are a somewhat larger breed, they require a substantial amount of food to maintain their weight and energy levels. Additionally, treats, chews, and supplements can also be added to their diet, increasing the overall cost of nutrition. Proper grooming and hygiene are essential to keep a Lab healthy and comfortable. Remember that training and behavioral classes may be necessary to ensure your Lab is well-behaved and socialized, which can also be costly. These expenses should be considered when determining if a Lab is the right breed for you and your budget. How much a Labrador Retriever puppy costs depends on multiple factors, such as the breeder's reputation, the location of the pup, the bloodline, and more. Additionally, the cost may increase if the puppy comes with additional services such as health certificates, microchipping , or first vaccinations. Your pup will also need feeding, grooming, and bathing factored into their expenses, as well as beds, toys, chews, leashes, collars, harnesses, and much more. Consider the following: Buying From a Breeder vs. While adopting a Lab may be less expensive, it is essential to note that some shelters may have restrictions and requirements that need to be met before adoption. Keep in mind that the price of a Labrador based on color may vary by region and how popular that specific color is in that location. However, buyers should be cautious and avoid buying from dishonest breeders who may be selling mixed-breed dogs as purebreds. Breeders Reputation Reputable breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and breed standards usually charge more for their puppies. It's crucial to research the breeder thoroughly and ensure that they follow ethical breeding practices before making a purchase. This includes checking their breeding practices, requesting health certificates and pedigrees, and visiting their facilities in person if possible. Buyers should also be cautious of breeders who offer extremely low prices, as that might be a sign of unethical practices. Estimated Size The estimated size of an adult Labrador retriever is around about .Average Price To Buy A Lab Puppy From A Breeder The average price to buy a Lab puppy from a breeder is different from one person to the next, according to the reputation the breeder has in the community, the dog's bloodline, and their location. Again, the color of the Lab plays a significant factor as well. In addition to the cost of the puppy, there are also other expenses associated with owning a Lab. This includes routine care costs such as food, toys, grooming supplies, and veterinary visits for vaccinations and check-ups. Owners should also budget for unexpected expenses such as emergency veterinary care or unexpected illnesses. Remember that a reputable breeder may charge more for their puppies, but they are more likely to provide you with a healthy, well-socialized puppy from a good bloodline. Average Cost To Adopt A Lab Puppy Adopting a Lab puppy is generally less expensive than buying one from a breeder, but the costs can still vary widely. However, it's crucial to research adoption agencies thoroughly to ensure that they are reputable and the dogs are healthy and well-cared for before making a decision. You don't want to bring a sickly pup into your home, just to end up spending more on medical bills than you had anticipated. However, the costs don't stop there. Once you have your furry friend, ongoing expenses include food, vet bills, grooming, and more. In addition, Labs are known for their love of exploration and adventure, which means they have a penchant for getting lost. You don't want to get a new puppy with the understanding that the breed may be high maintenance, and then you lose track of your dog. The collar uses GPS and cellular technology to track your dog's location in real-time, so you can quickly locate your pet if they ever wander off. The collar also includes additional features such as activity monitoring and geofencing to alert you if your dog leaves a designated area. While the initial cost of the collar may seem high, it can save you money in the long run by preventing the loss or theft of your beloved Lab. Labrador Retriever Breed Guide Labrador Retrievers are outgoing and generally have a friendly disposition toward others. They are loyal, affectionate and make excellent family pets. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them great for first-time dog owners. Due to their friendly nature, they also make excellent therapy dogs and are often used in service roles. Labrador Retrievers generally come in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. The coat is short, dense, and water-resistant, which makes them excellent swimmers. Labs can be medium to large dogs that weigh about 55 to 80 pounds on average, with the males usually outweighing the females by ten pounds. Typically, they're around two feet tall inches , and the males will have about a one-inch height advantage over the females. The average lifespan for a Labrador Retriever is around 12 years, although some can live up to 14 years. They are all around healthy, but like all dogs, there are specific ailments that you're more likely to encounter with a Lab, like obesity, ear infections, and hip dysplasia. As for lifetime care costs, they can vary depending on factors such as food, vet bills, and grooming expenses. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Labrador Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog from a shelter is usually less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder. Typically, dog shelters will include initial vaccinations, any spaying or neutering services needed, along with essential veterinary care up front. That helps cut down on some of the initial costs that owners usually spend when they first bring a puppy home. However, it's not uncommon that breeders will also at least include the first vaccinations for the pup upon its release to your family. Another option to reduce the cost of owning a Lab is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may already be trained and require less attention and socialization than a puppy, which can save on training costs and time. Moreover, older dogs may have lower veterinary bills since they may not require as many check-ups or preventative care as a puppy. Finally, another way to save money on the lifetime costs of owning a Labrador Retriever is to invest in preventative care. This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, and regular veterinary check-ups to catch potential health issues early on. While preventive care may require an upfront investment, it can ultimately save money by avoiding expensive medical bills down the line. Final Thoughts: The Cost of Owning a Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds to own, but they can be somewhat high maintenance after you bring them into your home. However, there are ways to reduce costs, such as adopting from a shelter or rescue organization, buying an older dog instead of a puppy, and being mindful of routine care costs. Regardless of the price, it's important to protect your Labrador Retriever with a GPS-tracking dog collar like the one offered by Fi, which can provide peace of mind and ensure the safety of your Lab. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. The link has been copied! You might also like. How Much Does a Labrador Cost? And, this is just the upfront cost of the puppy. This includes the cost of food, veterinary bills, grooming, bedding, and so on. Labrador puppy costs depend on a few factors. Quality of the breeder Quality of the parent dogs Type of Labrador eg. For instance, puppy prices tend to be higher before Christmas, so buy a puppy in the spring, instead. Originally, black Labs were favored above other colors. Brown and yellow Labs were extremely uncommon, and were not at all desirable. Over time, this opinion changed and brown and yellow Labs became more accepted. Shooting communities still tend to prefer the black Lab, but yellow Labs are very common in other working roles, like as therapy dogs and guide dogs. On the whole, each official Labrador color will cost a similar amount. But, yellow and brown Labs may cost slightly more than black Labs, since the genes that cause their coloring are recessive and therefore are less common. Non-Standard Colors Labrador costs can be hugely increased or reduced by non standard colors or patterns. For instance, dilute shades or mismarks. Dilute coloring is recessive and highly controversial in the Labrador community. The genes that cause these shades will dilute pigmentation, turning black Labs into charcoal Labs, chocolate Labs into silver Labs, and yellow Labs into champagne Labs. Some believe this color results from cross-breeding. But, others believe the recessive genes simply remained hidden over generations, like original yellow and chocolate coloring. Dilute colors are not accepted in the official breed standard. So, many breeders will not adjust their price, and may even lower it for unexpected dilute puppies. The same is the case with mismarks. Mismarks can include white patches and spots, brindling, and even tan markings. Extensive mismarks will disqualify a Lab from show. Show type Labs are bred to fit the Labrador breed standard. They are usually slightly stockier and less active than field types. Field types are more often bred for their working ability than for any specific appearance. Labradors cost more when they are bred to show standards. Field Labs tend to be cheaper than Labradors bred for show. But, you should consider which type is best for you, rather than just going for the cheapest Labrador you can find. Field type Labs can be much more energetic and active than show types. First time owners may find the English Lab slightly easier to raise and train! Conversely, Labrador costs can be highest with field trial champion bred dogs that are likely to win awards. Labrador Costs From Breeders vs Shelters Labrador puppies from reputable breeders will cost more than dogs from a rescue center. Whilst Labs from breeders can cost thousands of dollars, Labradors from rescue centers can only be a few hundred dollars. A major difference between Labs from a breeder and Labs from a rescue center is the history of the dogs. Puppies from a breeder will stay with their mom and siblings until 8 weeks old. At 8 weeks, puppies can go to their new home. Rescue center dogs can have unknown histories, or even histories that involve abuse. Labs from rescue centers are usually older, and have often lived with other families. However, many Labs are given up for non-behavioral reasons. They can be just as wonderful pets as puppies from a breeder. And, many dogs from rescue centers will have basic training, including house training, obedience, and potentially recall. Why Are Breeders So Expensive? Reputable breeders tend to cost more than any other puppy source. Breeders have to spend a lot when breeding a litter, and all of this will lower their profit margins. Labrador breeding costs include: Health testing and certificates. Less - The Labrador Retriever is a medium to large-sized , short-coupled, powerfully-built dog with a short, dense, water-resistant coat; small, drop ears; and a short, thick otter-like tail carried level with the back or with a slight upward curve. The length of body is equal to or only slightly longer than the height at the withers, and the distance from the elbows to the ground is equal to one-half the height at the withers. Balance, outline, intelligence, temperament and movement are of overriding importance. The Labrador Retriever is a breed of moderation, thoroughly sound, and willing and able to do its work. The Labrador Retriever is a dog without exaggeration, so light, weedy dogs; long, low-stationed dogs; and cloddy, lumbering dogs are to be equally penalized. The Labrador Retriever is an enthusiastic hunter with a good nose and a soft mouth. They excel in all performance activities. Another essential characteristic of the Labrador Retriever is the short, dense, double coat that protects the dog when retrieving from water. Labrador Retrievers are noted for their excellent temperaments. This breed is friendly, outgoing and eager to please. They are extremely intelligent and easily trained to perform a variety of complex tasks. These dogs were brought to England, probably on fishing boats. Originally black in color, the first recorded yellow Labrador appeared in a litter born in .Chocolates were also recorded at about the same time, but never achieved the same level of popularity as the blacks and yellows. Originally bred to retrieve from water, the modern Labrador Retriever has proven to be one of the most versatile breeds, excelling in hunt tests and field trials, in obedience and agility events, and also as service dogs. Are they good family dogs? Labrador Dog Price — The Costs Involved Buying a Labrador is not just a question of the purchase price of a Lab puppy, though of course that is important. There are other costs involved, both financial, emotional and in terms of time and effort. So we need to look at those too. You may be wondering whether you will have the time for a dog, and if you have the space and energy for a large and lively breed? But this page will take you back to the fundamental considerations, to help you to make the right choice for you and your family. Do you have time for a dog? Can you afford a dog? What about your lifestyle? Will a dog fit in with your family? Is a Labrador the right dog for you? These questions all apply regardless of the type of Labrador you are looking for. The needs of a black Lab, yellow Lab or chocolate Lab are all the same in these respects. The same goes for an English or American Labrador too. Dogs need space, both indoors and outside. Even small breeds need room to stretch their legs and run about. And Labradors as fairly large and lively dogs need quite a lot of space. This means you need a decent sized backyard if you plan on buying a Labrador puppy. Somewhere that your Lab dog can run around, play and enjoy training sessions with you. Labradors can be quite silly during adolescence, bouncing and cavorting in the home. Their tails are long and thick, easily knocking any fragile decorations you might have from shelves. If you have lots of ornaments then you will need to move them to higher shelves to avoid them getting damaged. You will also need to move anything that could be easily damaged by chewing. With small puppies this will be very often indeed. Perhaps every 15 to 20 minutes during their first few days with you. If you live in a flat, or do not have a garden, this will be difficult for you. These are helpful but do take up a lot of space. Although this will take up a lot of space indoors, it can work very well for larger apartments with no easy outside access. Ideally however you do need to have a garden, and a part of the garden which your dog can use as a bathroom, along with a good system for clearing up after him hygienically. Space is key for a Lab dog! The right space for a Labrador includes large clear rooms in the house, with no breakable or fragile objects within his grasp. And ideally access to a garden where they can easily be let out to the bathroom and have room to play. Keeping a single Labrador permanently outside however is not usually a good idea, even with adequate shelter and security. Labs are very sociable dogs and prone to separation anxiety if they lack company. This means your dog may be both sad and noisy. It is always sad to hear from new puppy owners that are struggling to juggle the needs of a puppy with their need to work. These articles will help you to deal with this common issue. Even with a visit at lunch time. An older dog may cope with being left for up to four hours in row on a regular basis, but puppies need more attention than this. Contented Labradors are fairly quiet dogs and unlikely to disturb your neighbors. Nor are they very good guard dogs. However, lonely dogs bark and wreck things. If you work all day, can you afford to pay someone to come in and let him out to stretch his legs and empty himself? Or do you have a relative or friend that would be prepared to do this on a regular basis. Bear in mind that this is quite a lot to ask of anyone in the long term. The biggest long term time commitment in owning a dog is in the form of training and exercise. Training Takes Time All dogs need training in order that they can rub along in human society without being a complete nuisance. This means a regular daily commitment of ten to twenty minutes from you, in addition to your regular interaction with the dog. Training cannot be saved up for the weekend, your dog will have forgotten most of what he learnt the weekend before, and he does not have the attention span to concentrate on you for an hour and a half. You can find out more about training your Labrador puppy here. Staying Fit Exercise is required on a regular basis, for some breeds of dog this means at least an hour a day of walking or jogging to keep your dog fit and healthy. You can find out more about the exercise requirements of a Labrador puppy here. Whilst your dog will not come to any harm if you miss a day occasionally, a daily routine is often the best way to ensure that you build this important habit. Can You Afford A Dog? Dogs can be quite expensive to run. You need to consider not only how much a Labrador will cost you to buy, but also how much it will cost you to keep. How much do Labradors cost from breeders? The price of a Labrador puppy will vary from breeder to breeder, and from place to place. Perhaps you know a friend that has a litter of puppies and they are going to let you have one for free. However, the purchase price of a dog is almost irrelevant. It is such a small part of the final cost. The cost of keeping a Labrador The reality is, you are also going to need to fork out a chunk of your wages each week on keeping your pooch happy and healthy. Obviously you will have taken the cost of a good brand of Labrador puppy food into consideration. It is a good idea to budget for veterinary insurance too. Not because it is unreasonably priced, but simply because it is now so advanced. You can fix a lot of problems these days. We can do open heart surgery, mend complex fractures, treat cancer with radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Pretty much anything you can treat in a human, you can now treat in a dog. And the catch? It costs. The more comprehensive your insurance package the more it will cost. Watch out for very cheap deals, as they may not provide continuing cover for long term ailments. You will also need to vaccinate your dog against common canine illness , and this will probably need to be done each year too. Especially if you are wanting to occasionally leave them in boarding kennels when you go away, as they require up to date vaccination certificates. Labrador Puppy Costs There will be a few other one-off costs such as a puppy crate and puppy play pen for your home for when your dog is young, another for your car if you have one. Then there are bowls, bedding, collar, leash etc. But you may be able to borrow a crate or get one second hand. Here are some of the items you will need for your new Labrador puppy, and reviews on the best options for Labradors:.
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how much should i wash my bernedoodle puppy - Fatigue Behavior changes loss of appetite, reluctance to engage, etc. If you notice any of these signs, make an appointment with your vet so they can perform screenings such as chest x-rays, blood tests, and an echocardiogram an ultrasound of the heart and nearby blood vessels to assess the issue. The condition can be serious if left untreated, but thankfully there are many treatment options available, such as diet therapy and medication. What To Feed a Labradoodle To live a long and happy life, Labradoodles must consume the proper amount of high-quality dog food and have access to fresh water. A balanced diet will help your pup maintain a healthy weight and avoid health conditions such as heart disease and hip dysplasia. If a pet parent is willing and able to cook for their dog, Whittenburg suggests a fresh, homemade diet that has been formulated by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. Boutique brand and grain-free foods should be avoided. That includes servings of food in the right amount that provides more than 40 nutrients that pets require in their respective life stages, including proteins, fats, carbs, and vitamins, minerals, and independent amino acids, according to the Pet Food Institute. While there is no one-size-fits-all way to feed a Labradoodle and a consultation with your vet is recommended, Whittenburg says Labradoodle puppies under 6 months old should generally be fed a minimum of three times a day and adult dogs should be fed twice a day. Unless recommended by a veterinarian, dogs fed a complete and balanced commercial food diet should not need any nutritional supplements. However, Labradoodles that are fed a homemade diet may require supplements to ensure they are getting all the vitamins and minerals necessary to thrive, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, glucosamine, and a variety of antioxidants. Behavior and Training Tips for Labradoodles Labradoodle Personality and Temperament The high-energy, attention-seeking, intelligent Labradoodle requires frequent exercise, interaction, and play. While every Labradoodle is different, proper socialization is a must for helping your dog become a well-behaved companion. These dogs are not known to be excessive barkers, but the right amount of training and exercise is required to ensure they learn to behave appropriately. Labradoodle Training Because Labradoodles are a hybrid of two highly intelligent breeds, they are eager to please and highly trainable, according to Philippou. They can be taught to excel at everything from basic tricks like sit, stay, and roll over to running agility courses. Always use positive-reinforcement techniques, like using treats to reward good behaviors, during training. Due to their gentle and sharp-witted nature, Labradoodles can even be trained to become service dogs. Fun Activities for Labradoodles. 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. It's time to talk about Labradoodles. This combination Labrador retriever and poodle is an excellent family dog who's often sought out by allergy sufferers because of their minimal shedding. The ever-popular Labradoodle is immensely trainable and, unlike some dogs, a good fit for first-time dog owners. On the larger side, these pups can take up some space-but are great with kids and will adapt to their family's lifestyle. The standard version, which is a Lab bred with a standard-sized poodle, can grow to be about 24 inches tall and weigh up to 75 pounds. If you're searching for a dog on the smaller size, it's possible to also find mini Labradoodles, a hybrid of a Labrador retriever and a miniature poodle. The loving, loyal doodles are a fun addition to any family. They're prone to zoomies and more than happy to play with the baby. Labradoodles are healthy dogs and need exercise, though the amount of running, playing, or swimming might depend on their makeup of Labrador and poodle genes. But regardless of the genetic breakdown, you'll need to get used to trips to the groomer. These pups are hairy. A quick note: Labradoodles and Australian Labradoodles aren't the same. Australian Labradoodles are crosses between a poodle, Labrador retriever, and cocker spaniel. Appearance Like many Labradoodle characteristics, your dog's appearance will depend on the generation you're looking for. To illustrate: Martinez breeds F1 half Labrador, half poodle , F1b 75 percent poodle, 25 percent Lab , and F2 87 percent poodle, 13 percent Lab Labradoodles. The half-Lab F1s will have longer, wavier hair and will still shed, Martinez says. The F1bs and F2s will have more poodle-esque hair that's tighter, curlier, and generally won't shed. They'll often look like little teddy bears as puppies. Labradoodles are often thought of as hypoallergenic -even though no dog is truly an allergen-free animal-but generally the F1b and F2 generations are considered better options for some allergy sufferers. Martinez recommends people with allergies spend time with their puppy before they adopt. His customers are required to. They'll come in around inches tall, Martinez says. As for colors, Labradoodles run the gamut. You'll find them in black, white, cream, red, chocolate, or a mix of those colors. Taking after their poodle brethren, these fluffy boys and girls need to be brushed frequently , too. Temperament Martinez loves the dogs he breeds-he owns 10 himself-and was especially effusive about how Labradoodles act around people, families , and children , even kids who might not know exactly how to pet or interact with dogs "They love people," he says. But not only can these pups live with cats -Martinez says several of his puppies have gone on to become therapy dogs , meaning they're calm and affectionate enough to visit schools, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers to offer psychological and physiological support to patients and people in need. Some Labradoodles go on to become service dogs , as the breed creator originally intended. But don't confuse them for docile dogs. They still have big personalities-Martinez describes a typical day with his dogs as "entertaining"-but mischievous behavior can be counteracted with training , which Labradoodles quickly pick up on. Genesis Service Dogs , which breeds Labradoodles to help children and adults with special needs, says the dogs will mature slower than their Labrador retriever brethren, so they'll be puppyish for about a year and a half. Then they'll become even more affectionate toward their humans. They're mostly quiet, keeping barking to a minimum, but Labradoodles' energy level can vary based on their generation, Martinez says. The dogs with more Labrador genes F1s will be more energetic than the ones with more poodle in their blood. Labradoodles will often reflect the energy levels of their owner, Martinez says, but they're still descendants of sporting dogs who like having something to do. Whether that means long walks together or playing games in the yard, a Labradoodle will be happiest with any activity he can do with you. Living Needs Labradoodles are flexible when it comes to where they live. While the standard Labradoodles are bigger, they can still reside in an apartment, though generally Martinez admits smaller dogs, potentially miniature Labradoodles, are better suited for living in smaller homes. If you do live in an apartment or smaller home where yard space is limited, make sure you can regularly fit in enough exercise and play for your active pup to blow off some steam, like a visit to the local dog park every so often. Labradoodles certainly won't turn down a house with a big, fenced-in yard , though. Martinez lets his group of pups spend plenty of time outside, where they'll be just as likely to lay down for a spell than run around on the doggie playground equipment. They do need exercise, though. If Martinez sends a puppy home with someone who works all day, he advises them to invest in a dog walker so their doodle is able to stretch his legs during the hours he's left alone. But if you have the time and like to explore, a Labradoodle could be the perfect hiking partner. And since poodles are considered water dogs, some Labradoodles like to swim , too. This breed is good for all ages, Martinez says, but Labradoodle owners will still need to put the work in with positive reinforcement training and to meet their activity needs. He subscribes to the oft-used mantra: There aren't any bad dogs, just bad owners. Care It's important to start training your Labradoodle puppy as soon as you bring him home. Labradoodles are considered smart dogs and will pick up what you're teaching very quickly. Martinez says they may even understand some commands within the first day. Labradoodles are smart enough that daily training doesn't take too long. Martinez recommends three or four sessions of 10 minutes each day to accommodate the dogs' short attention spans, which is like that of "a young child," he says. They're so easy to train and quick to learn that even first-time dog owners can fare well, Martinez says. But if you don't have the time or know-how to train, obedience school is the answer. Once he's learned to recognize the basics, your doodle will start making those classic head tilts when you mention their favorite words walk, car, treat. According to Martinez, early socialization -both with other dogs and people-is important for Labradoodle puppies. Martinez says he lets the puppies he breeds spend their early days with his adult dogs to get them used to other dogs at a young age. If your vet says it's safe, you may want to have your new Labradoodle puppy meet other humans and dogs in their first few weeks in their new home. When it comes to exercise, three to four walks a day will suffice which is why you might need a dog walker. Otherwise, swimming, hiking, or some playtime in the yard or at the park will help your dog immensely. Labradoodles do enjoy their activity, but Martinez says they'll spend just as much time lounging around to relax. Grooming is another integral part of caring for your Labradoodle, but it's probably best to outsource it. These fluffy boys and girls need regular trims. Martinez sends his dogs to the goomer for a haircut every six weeks, regardless of whether they're F1s, F1bs, or F2s. Regular brushing is a good idea, too, because you don't want your Labradoodle's hair to get matted or uncomfortable. You'll also want to keep those ears dry and clean , and don't forget to keep up with the nail trimming and tooth brushing , either. Health Here's another reason Labradoodles are good for first-time dog owners: They're a relatively healthy breed over their years of life. But being the ideal combination of Labs and poodles also means Labradoodles can be susceptible to the health problems of both their parent breeds. Labs, for instance, will commonly suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia , so the risk is there for Labradoodles as well. Doodles can also run into problems with myopathies, diseases that damage muscles , and exercise-induced collapse. For anyone looking to adopt a Labradoodle, Martinez couldn't emphasize enough: Make sure your breeder conducts DNA tests on your puppy's parents to find any genetic abnormalities. The same goes for having their hips and elbows tested and certified by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. If the breeder you're considering doesn't do that testing or says it isn't needed, find someone else. Martinez notes that Labrador retrievers are happy to eat just about anything and everything. While your Labradoodle will likely be a bit pickier, be sure to keep any weight gain in check since they may have a tendency to overeat if they're allowed to. History Australian Wally Conron is credited as the modern-day creator of the Labradoodle, breeding the first one in the late s. He was trying to create a guide dog that would also be hypoallergenic, by breeding a Labrador retriever and a standard poodle. Clearly, his efforts were successful. The breed exploded in popularity, and since it is the combination of the U. People seek out the Labradoodle for its trifecta of cute looks, friendly demeanor, and minimal shedding. While the Labradoodle is the seemingly ideal dog for people with allergies, Conron has said he regrets his creation. Because of the intense demand for these "designer dogs," Conron has expressed concern over the bad actors who breed Labradoodles in puppy mills-and the inexperienced and sometimes misinformed breeders who fail to prevent genetic problems from being passed on to new generations. Labradoodles have belonged to several famous owners, including golfer Tiger Woods, actress Jennifer Aniston, and actor Henry Winkler. Doodles certainly earn their keep on Instagram, so if you need some extra fluff in your life, the Dood Squad is a good place to start. Was this page helpful? Silver Chalk There are three possible sizes: the standard Labradoodle is between 53 and 61 cm tall inches and weighs from 23 to 27 kg lb ; the medium Labradoodle that is 43 to 51 cm tall inches and weighs 14 to 20 kg lb ; and the average Labradoodle, 36 to 41 cm tall, weighing 7 to 11 kg lb. They are friendly, energetic, very intelligent, and always ready to play. They love water and they are good swimmers, just like their parents. Being versatile family and therapy dogs, Labradoodles are devoted and enthusiastic, with an eagerness to please that makes training quite easy. People usually say Labradoodles have the energy of a Labrador and the work ethics of both Labradors and Poodles. The Labradoodle is considered a good pet for those having a dog for the first time, as they are generally easy-going and can be calm, despite all their energy and playfulness. Again, because this is not a breed, there is a lack of consistency in their offspring, with some puppies being smarter, more reserved, and quiet like Poodles, and others being noisier and slower to mature, like Labradors. The same goes with their coat, as it can either be of a more high-maintenance type or shorter, as well as more or less prone to shed. Labradoodles are generally high-energy dogs that are not well suited to live in an apartment and need physical and mental stimulation in order to thrive as healthy dogs. Exuberant jumpers, Labradoodles can be too much for small children, accidentally knocking them down. The Labradoodle is a gentle dog with not many guard dog features, though it will probably bark to alert that visitors are coming. Trainability Eager to please, Labradoodles are easy dogs to train. Like all other dogs, consistency and repetition are a must and a firm, but gentle hand is required. Dogs need rules and benefit from schedules and training sessions. Training sessions should be performed daily and kept short. These will help establish a human-dog bond that is extremely important for both owner and pet. Socialisation and exposure to different animals, people, and places are also paramount for Labradoodles to grow as stable and well-rounded dogs. Hip dysplasia is the consequence of an abnormally formed hip joint that leads to an improper fitting of the thighbone onto the hip socket, causing inflammation and degeneration of the joint. Diagnosis is usually attained by X-rays and scoring tests, and treatment may be surgical or therapeutic with drugs that help alleviating the symptoms. Eye Diseases Labradoodles may suffer from different eye conditions that include progressive retinal atrophy, multifocal retinal dystrophy, and cataracts. These are all hereditary conditions that cause sight impairment and owners usually notice the first symptoms when their dogs start bumping into furniture, walls or other objects because they cannot see well. Elbow Dysplasia Elbow dysplasia is the correspondent of hip dysplasia, only occurring in the elbow joint. When bones do not fit correctly due to a malformation, there is distress in the articulation that becomes inflamed and swollen. Consequently, dogs experience pain and may refuse to walk or climb stairs, or become lame. Hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism is a metabolic disease resulting from a deficiency in thyroxine production, a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that regulates metabolism. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include weight gain, lethargy, muscle loss, and alopecia hair loss. Hormone replacement is the standard treatment that usually works well when there is owner compliance. Corticosteroids are hormones that help maintaining the normal metabolism of the body. The disease is treated by hormone replacement. Exercise and Activity Levels Labradoodles are high-energy dogs that need at least half an hour of exercise each day. An hour a day is ideal, as bored dogs that are not exercised enough may turn into destructive dogs that are hard to handle. Games and brain exercises are great ways of bonding and keeping Labradoodles entertained and challenged, both mentally and physically. Grooming Labradoodles were meant to be low-shedding, hypoallergenic dogs. Though some are actually less prone to shed and are less allergenic than the average dog, others are not. Ear cleaning and nail clipping, when necessary, are also grooming tasks that need to be done regularly. User reviews There are no user reviews for this listing. Popular Dog Breeds. Is a Labradoodle suited to apartment-living? The breed varies depending on whether the Labrador Retriever has been crossed with a Standard, Miniature, or Toy Poodle. The Labradoodle crossbreed was designed to meet the demand for hypoallergenic guide dogs, with the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia being the first to officially experiment with this particular breed. While the Labradoodle provides a great combination of both the Poodle and the Labrador Retriever, breeding results are still varied. There is currently a lack of consistency when it comes to coat and temperament, which makes it all the more exciting if you are getting your own Labradoodle pup! What is the personality of a Labradoodle? In general, a Labradoodle is a friendly, intelligent dog. They typically love people, are extremely loyal, and have no problem showing affection. They also love to play and tend to exude a real zest for life although perhaps slightly less so than the exuberant Goldendoodle! As mentioned above, there is some variation in the temperament of a Labradoodle given that the crossbreed is still relatively new. Some believe will stabilise throughout the future generations if reputable breeders continue to nurture high-quality bloodlines. A miniature Labradoodle puppy named Max having a nap. There is so much to love about a Labradoodle! Their loving nature means they are likely to form close bonds with everyone in your household. That being said, do not expect your Labradoodle to be a guard dog. They are generally known for having the ability to process information quickly, which is great news for Labradoodle owners. With consistency, you should have no issue establishing basic obedience commands and boundaries with your Labradoodle. What are the challenges that an owner might face with a Labradoodle? They can be prone to separation anxiety Labradoodles are sociable dogs that quickly form attachments with their families. While this is a great thing as they will become a beloved family member almost instantly, it can also leave them prone to separation anxiety. They can be overly excitable Labradoodles are one of those dog breeds that simply love life. While their happiness is infectious, it can also become problematic if not kept in check. They can have high energy levels Labradoodles typically have high energy levels and benefit from regular exercise. If they are not mentally and physically stimulated, they may develop bad habits out of boredom. Ensure that your Labradoodle is getting enough exercise and mental stimulation to avoid destructive behaviours, like barking or chewing , from occurring. What are Labradoodles suited to given their personality? Labradoodles are friendly, sociable, intelligent dogs that form strong attachments with their owner. For this reason, they make great service dogs which makes sense given that this is what they were initially bred for. Their personality also makes them great family dogs as they get along with people of all ages and other animals. Labradoodles are also commonly used as therapy dogs as they are great with people and easy to train. What should I know about training my Labradoodle? Like any dog breed, Labradoodles benefit from basic training which will ensure a happy, healthy existence with their owner. Tgus us why they are used often as a guide dog or therapy dog. The pairing of intelligence with the desire to please is a winning combination when it comes to establishing acceptable behaviours and basic commands! Both the Poodle and the Golden Retriever combine to give this mixed breed trainability. What is the best way to motivate a Labradoodle? Given the common personality traits of a Labradoodle, this type of dog is best trained using positive reinforcement. They are much more likely to respond to this than negativity. While they might not initially understand what you want them to do, you can bet that they will be trying their absolute hardest. Use this personality trait to your advantage by rewarding good behaviour with lots of praise. If they do the right thing, or even look like they are close to doing the right thing, encourage them with some praise. Use a happy voice so your furry friend knows that they are on the right track. All Labradoodle dogs love praise, from a F1 labradoodle to an Australian Labradoodle — get used to giving out treats and verbal rewards! Even a Mini Labradoodle is packed with energy. If your dog has behaved well in an intensive training session, reward them by playing with them. They will love the interaction and it will give you both a chance to have some fun after what can be a frustrating activity. Just remember not to slip into play mode until the training session has finished. There needs to be a clear boundary, otherwise you will be encouraging the playful behaviour when really you want them to be listening to your commands. Treats If you are struggling to get the attention of your designer dog Labradoodle, try using treats! Find something that they love and use it to obtain their focus and reward them for learning something new. Tips for Training my Labradoodle Temperament Furnishings for Labradoodles roughly translates to… a moustache! If you are looking to truly optimise your training sessions, consider these tips. Socialise them early on Labradoodles are highly sociable and enjoy being around other dogs and people, but over-excitement can lead to them exhibiting bad manners. Start socialising a Labradoodle breed puppy with new people and dogs at an early age so they learn how to behave appropriately around strangers. Getting them accustomed to different people and dogs at a young age will help them to remain calmer in the presence of new friends. Expose them to different situations The Labradoodle personality and eager nature can also lead them to become excited when taken to a new environment. Again, the best way to deal with this is through exposure. Take your Labradoodle out with you to different places from a young age so that they get accustomed to being in new spaces. Exercise them regularly Labradoodles have a lot of energy and this can distract them during training sessions. If you want your canine friend to pay attention to your instructions, it is worth exercising them beforehand. That way, they will be calmer and more likely to pay attention to you. Keep them stimulated The same goes for mental exercise. Make sure that they have had their regular playtime and some interaction, then begin training to help things go smoothly. Do Labradoodles require a lot of exercise? Labradoodles do tend to be an energetic companion dog and therefore they will need regular exercise. Interestingly, first-generation Labradoodles have been found to have higher energy levels than later generations, who adapt better to different lifestyles. In general, you should be exercising your Labradoodle for 30 minutes to an hour each day. They will need to have space to physically exert themselves, but you should also make sure that they are getting enough mental stimulation. While Labradoodles will enjoy keeping you company on a run so do othe rlarge Poodle mix brees like the Bernedoodle and Goldendoodle , they should also have some time to play off-lead. This will help them to burn off any pent up energy, while also offering mental stimulation through the space to explore. Labradoodles are pretty adaptable, especially if they are a later generation Labradoodle. However, they are not a breed recommended for apartment-living. This type of hybrid breed doodle dog is much better suited to a place with a backyard where they have the space to play and exert energy when they feel the need. This will prevent them from developing destructive behaviours, like chewing and barking, out of boredom or due to having excess energy. A Labradoodle dog makes a great pet due to its affectionate, happy nature. While there is still some variance in the breed due to certain breeder practices, the endeavour to create a hypoallergenic service dog has been mostly successful. Their personality results in them being easy to train, making them suitable for families and beginner dog owners. With a friendly, playful nature and high levels of intelligence, its difficult not to love the Poodle cross Labradoodle! My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. The first Labradoodle was a dog named Sultan—who first came to existence in the late 20th century. With astounding success, Sultan had both a hypoallergenic coat and the intelligence to be trained as a service dog. Wally then teamed up with a partner in Hawaii, and the two worked to establish the Labradoodle as its own breed. Currently, multigenerational breeding is being conducted in hopes to iron out and stabilize the Labradoodle breed. This, of course, means the Labradoodle breed is not registered with the AKC. Unfortunately—as time passed and more Labradoodles were bred—Conron realized that the crossbreed is inconsistent. Streamlining the breed is currently a work in progress, stagnated by the array of incompetent puppy mill breeders trying to create their own Labradoodles. Known for their intelligence, calm temperament, affection, extroversion, and elegant gait, the Labradoodle is a fantastic home dog. In fact, the Labradoodle personality is so affectionate and sociable, that they often need to be trained to mitigate their abrasive excitement for life. Due to their intelligence, they process information rapidly, and are often quick-witted canines. They enjoy playing with a passion, but are often not pushy and their keenness and intuition allows them to judge when it is play time and when it is not. Early-socialization , heredity, and the amount of training administered affect the extent of extroverted Labradoodle behavior. It is important that with these dogs they are introduced to the world, other people, and canines early on. Rather, it is to create boundaries within their own tenacious affection and prevent Labradoodle temperament problems. They are by in large a great choice for a first-time dog owner, a family, and a guide dog. Their excellent temperament, personality and intelligence make them a good candidate as a therapy dog. Training a Labradoodle Training a Labradoodle puppy is an easier task than most dogs and they pick up basic commands easily. Their eager-to-please personalities and intelligence make them both attentive and dexterous in learning. Their overt friendliness, intuition, and slight sensitivity mean they respond best to positive reinforcement. Praise for good Labradoodle behavior in the form of treats, words, and playfulness work best when training a Labradoodle. Despite being home dogs, the Labradoodle will need excessive exercise—particularly in the puppy ages—to meet their high threshold of energy. One of the most important parts of training a Labradoodle is exposing them to other dogs early on. This inability to discern between appropriate and inappropriate canine interaction will become a problem if not treated early on. Their intelligence needs to be stimulated and manifested. This means teaching tricks, games, and a slew of commands to keep them engaged. A lack of mental and physical situation will result in a tireless Labradoodle. A tireless Labradoodle tears the home apart and develops high levels of nervousness and anxiety. A Labradoodle should be potty trained and housed indoors. These are people dogs. They long for the comfort of their owners and a home. Also, crate training is exceptionally successful with this breed. Exercise Requirements for Labradoodles A Labradoodle requires minutes of exercise per day. These dogs have a surplus of energy. Their need for activity and large size make them a perfect fit for a house with a yard, but not an apartment. As with most breeds, their need for exercise will dwindle over time. A puppy Labradoodle, dependent on its heredity, will either be a bit more stagnant, or a bit more jumpy. Put them in water and watch them shine with glee. Labradoodle Lifespan A Labradoodle lifespan typically ranges anywhere from years. Popularity of the Labradoodle While Labradoodles have had a rapid rise in popularity in the last decade, they remain unregistered in the AKC. Breeders are currently trying to streamline the Labradoodle and create a common multigenerational breed. The issue is that—due to their rapid rise of international popularity—lots of incompetent breeders try to produce them by crossbreeding poodles and Labradors or Labrador Retrievers. This unfortunate rush to meet demand has started a chain of puppy mills, where the Labradoodles in question are often poorly bred dogs, with bad temperaments, personalities, and prone to health issues. Once the success of multigenerational breeding becomes apparent, and the breed begins to show credible consistency, they will become more popular in America. Feeding Recommendations for Labradoodles The amount in which you feed your Labradoodle depends on its size, metabolism, and activeness. Similar to the human anatomy, no two Labradoodles will be the same. Generally, a standard Labradoodle should eat two cups of dry food per day, broken into two different meals. However, the Labrador Retriever commonly experiences gastric torsion—in simpler words: bloating —a condition which can be passed along to Labradoodles. To avoid this problem, be sure to break the meals precisely in half and space them out with ample time between each course. For Labradoodles, never leave food out perpetually. Make sure each meal is administered and eaten before proceeding to the next. A good way to ensure your Labradoodle is receiving the proper amount of food is by pressing against their ribcage. With minimal force, you should be able to feel their ribs. If you have to press hard, lower the food intake and up the exercise. Labradoodle Grooming The hybrid Labradoodle and its peculiar ancestry cause an inconsistency in their coat type. Point being, they tend to range. Typically, the coat is around inches with either curly or straight hair. The proper coat is neither coarse, thick, or prone to fluffiness. Their coats are wool, hair, or fleece, with the latter being most coveted for the breed. These coats can be gold, caramel, apricot, cream, black, red, chocolate, and blue colored. A few have parti-colored coats. These dogs need grooming. Depending on the coat, others will need more, but generally speaking, they should be brushed twice a week with a bristle brush to keep their coats clean and mitigate shedding. There should not be a routine bath , and rather bathe the Labradoodle as needed; they tend to be less prone to odor than other dog breeds. For optimal Labradoodle health, brush their teeth three times per week for hygiene upkeep. This will avoid bacteria and tartar buildups. Trim their nails twice a month, as this breed is fond of scratching. Be careful not to cause bleeding. Conduct checkups; check the ears, mouth, nose, and coat for inflammation, redness, and infection. Are Labradoodles Good with Children? Kids love them and Labradoodles are exceptional with children. A mutual respect and understanding needs to be developed. Labradoodle Health Issues A Labradoodle can be more prone to disease and illness due to their unstable breeding methods. Make sure these clearances come from credible establishments. It can cause lameness in the leg s and can worsen to the point of immobility. At the very least, the Labradoodle is affected but does not show symptoms. A screening can be done to ensure the parents do not have Hip Dysplasia , as dogs with this condition should not be bred. Check with your breeder to see if the parents have been screened. It can cause lameness in the leg s and at the very worst immobility. The list of treatments ranges from simple weight monitoring to surgery. Epilepsy: this neurological condition is most commonly inherited. In short, it causes seizures. A Labradoodle with this condition will be glutinous about their food in hopes to compensate for their lack of energy. Meaning they will not receive the proper energy from their food intake, and will decide that more food is the solution. Even then, they will lose weight, remain lethargic, continue with their unappeasable appetite, and urinate constantly. This condition can be mitigated by managing diet and administering insulin if needed. For more pet resources about your favorite dog breeds, visit our blog to learn about Bloodhounds , Yorkie Poo , Miniature Poodle , and Rat Terrier! Other Resources:. But as a mixed breed, their character can draw on elements of either Labrador or Poodle temperament more strongly than the other. Or it can be a real mixed bag of traits from each breed! Which means their personality is harder to predict than that of a purebred dog. Some temperament traits are instinctive, which means they are genetic and inheritable. For example the retrieving instinct in gundogs, and a high prey drive in terriers and sighthounds. Other traits can be shaped by us — how well we socialize our dogs as puppies changes how confident they are as adults, for example. And some things about temperament are just a mystery — part of the unknowable magic that makes every dog a unique individual. Unpacking Labradoodle temperament There are some things we can easily predict about Labradoodle temperament, because they are true of all dogs. And mixed breed dogs like Labradoodles can inherit a mix of qualities from both of their parents. They were bred to help hunters retrieve shot waterfowl. These are also high-energy, outgoing dogs with plenty of affection for everyone. Which is why they have transitioned so successfully to being one of the most popular pet dogs too. Generally considered confident, some Labs can be fearful, particularly if not properly socialized from a young age. They are rarely aggressive towards people or other dogs, though any dog has the potential to bite if they feel threatened. Their intellect is unquestionable and is combined with a willingness to learn that makes them easy to train. Labrador Retrievers traditionally come in 3 colors: chocolate, black and yellow. You may have heard that black Labs are the smartest, and that chocolate Labs are particularly naughty. In fact it comes down to breeding choices. Black Labs were traditionally favored as working dogs, so breeders used to pursue breeding lines which had black coats, and especially trainable. Pairing both of these qualities was simply never the same kind of priority for chocolate Labs. But of course, they are still very clever! Nonetheless Labradoodles from black Lab lines might have an edge over Labradoodles from chocolate lines , when it comes to trainability. These subsets of the Labrador breed are defined by more than just the country they were born in. English Labs are bred for the show ring. Besides matching the breed standard flawlessly, breeders also look for calm, quiet, relaxed personalities. Dogs which can patiently spend hours hanging around waiting for their moment in the spotlight. American Labs are bred for field trials and hunting. To perform well, they need to be more intelligent, responsive, and energetic when compared with their English cousins. Therefore, Labradoodles from English Lab lines are also more likely to be placid, and Labradoodles from American Lab lines are more likely to be bouncy. You may be surprised to know that these Standard Poodles were also originally bred to retrieve waterfowl! So these are also energetic dogs who enjoy interacting and working along a human handler. Compared to Labradors, Poodles have reputation for being standoffish though. But it creates a significant unpredictable area in Labradoodle personality. Will your puppy grow up naturally socially outgoing like a Lab, or more inclined to be reserved like a Poodle? How important is it to you? Standard vs Miniature Poodles Labradoodle temperament is also shaped by whether their Poodle parent was Standard, or Miniature sized. Though originally bred to work, Miniature Poodles have also been selectively bred as companion dogs for a considerable period. They tend to be more playful and mischievous than Standard Poodles. They might also be more uncomfortable with being left alone, and prone to separation anxiety. Miniature Labradoodles might also inherit these traits. Labradoodle Temperment A Labradoodle can grow up to remind you very strongly of one parent, or have a temperament which sits somewhere between them both. Be highly motivated to take part in training games. Aggression is less likely in this breed than in some others, but can occur. Other traits, like how confident they are around new people, how lively, and how anxious they feel about being left alone are harder to predict. Meet their parents Every Labradoodle puppy is a product of their parents, and every Lab and Poodle is an individual who may or may not closely represent the blueprint for their breed. For example, some American Labs are super chilled, and some Poodles are surprise social butterflies. All puppies need to be carefully socialized as puppies. Socialization teaches them positive associations with places, people and things, so that they react to them confidently in future. Socializing your Labradoodle puppy can make the difference between a dog who is merely indifferent to new people if they take after the Poodle, and a dog who is frightened of strangers, and reacts to them by barking, growling or snapping. Get training Training is your most powerful tool to shape how your Labradoodle behaves. You can encourage a dog to have a calm disposition by rewarding calm. Consider an Australian Labradoodle In the s, breeders in Australia began an initiative to turn Labradoodles into a pedigree of their own, with reliable, predictable qualities. They are the puppies of other Australian Labradoodles Generally Australian Labradoodles are smart, sociable, friendly, gentle, loyal, playful, and affectionate. Labradoodle Temperament So as you can, every Labradoodles temperament is a cocktail of different elements.