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A crate is an essential tool in the house-training process. It can also be used to keep your pet and property safe. Crates are also a great way to transport your Labradoodle in the car. All Notch Hill Labradoodle puppies are introduced to crate training in a positive way before being sent to their new homes. If you continue to follow the below tips, your puppy will learn to love his crate. Instead, place the crate in an area of the house where your puppy spends a lot of his time. Put a few blankets and toys inside and leave the door open. The goal is to get him comfortable with going inside the crate. Do not close the crate door for the first time until he is completely relaxed. Crates should never be used as punishment. Feeding Your Puppy in the Crate When your puppy is happily entering the crate, your next goal is to get him comfortable with the idea of staying inside the crate for a longer period of time. One of the best ways to accomplish this is giving your Labradoodle his meals inside the crate. Place the food in the back of the crate so that he goes all the way in, but keep the door open. This creates a positive association with the crate. After he is done eating, open the door immediately. Then you can start leaving him in the crate for longer periods, adding a few minutes with each meal. This process can take several days or weeks. Crating Duration Guidelines During the day, puppies and adult Labradoodles should not be in the crate for more than 5 hours at a time. Follow these daytime guidelines to avoid potential problems: Important Reminders Don't ever leave a chain, prong, training, or slip collar on your Labradoodle when you put him in his crate. Give your puppy the opportunity to fully eliminate before being crated. Puppies do not like to soil their sleeping quarters if given adequate opportunity to eliminate elsewhere. Most adult dogs can stay in a crate for the entire night without a trip outside. However, young puppies and some old dogs cannot physically hold their bladders and bowels through the night. Is Crate Training Cruel? The short answer is no. Far from it actually. Most people will usually combine the thought of keeping your dog in a cage when it is home by itself, as something negative. This is because humans will compare this with the thought of ourselves being locked behind bars. But for the dog, this experience is quite different. By nature, dogs are cave animals, which you can usually see when they are sleeping. Dogs will usually try and sleep under a table or in a corner of a room. In nature, wolves and wild dogs will often bury holes in the ground for them to sleep in. Basically, a dog just wants to feel safe when they have to sleep or be left at home by itself. Crates serve the very useful purpose of preventing any problems regarding destructive behavior and other issues related to a puppy being home alone. A crate helps to educate your puppy and also helps when having visitors who might not be too happy around dogs. And of course, they are also quite helpful when you are traveling with your dog. Where Should the Crate be Placed? The best area where to place your crate is in the corner of a room of the house, where there is neither too cold nor too hot and no gusts of wind, Usually, a dog will want to be around their leader, you, so place the crate somewhere where it can see and hear you most of the time. Later on, you can get a specific bed for your labradoodle if you want. How Should a Crate be Designed A dog crate is usually built like a square cabinet, made from metal wire, plastic, or wood. My recommendation is to get one of metal as they seem to be less susceptible to the bites from a puppy. It has been quite great for us and seems to get very positive reviews on Chewy. No matter what type of crate you do end up getting, just remember to get one that is large enough for your dog to be able to stretch fully while laying on the side and to be able to sit without its head hitting the ceiling. Also, remember that a crate that is too large loses its purpose of creating a sense of security for your labradoodle. It is also possible to buy specific washable beds for some crates, else I would recommend getting a blanket for the crate. This will make the crate as cozy and comfortable as possible. When to Start the Training As soon as possible! And if you adopt a puppy you can begin as soon as it arrives in its new home. If you do decide not to keep the crate, remember to take it slowly so your dog has a chance of getting used to not having it around anymore. Educating an older dog is a lot harder and requires more patience. If you plan on traveling a lot with your dog, keeping your crate and bringing it with you is a good idea. Cleanliness in the Crate You should take your puppy for a walk at least every two hours. But accidents will happen, and usually at night. To minimize the risk of this, take your dog for a walk just before bedtime, and first thing in the morning. If you hear some whining during the night, get up and take the dog for a walk. Also, take your puppy for a walk immediately after dinner time, and if you see it sniffing intensively on the floor. If there is an accident, just clean it up as soon as you notice it using a special odor remover. It takes time and patience to introduce the crate as a home and a special place for your puppy. This way it will most likely only take a day or two before the puppy will go inside and lie down. After a few days where the dog has slept in the crate with the doors open, try casually closing the door, preferably while your dog is sleeping, and try to have it closed for a few minutes, or until the dog awakes. When the puppy awakes, open the door and praise your puppy and call it outside the crate. Gradually try to expand the time that the doors are closed. In time, you will be able to stay in the room with the doors closed, and your dog will lie down until it falls asleep. When this has become comfortable for your dog, try to leave the house and come back immediately. The next step is to leave the house for longer and longer. Continue expanding the amount of time you are able to leave the house. And try having a daily schedule for what you do before leaving the house. After the Habituation Have your dog get into the crate periodically during the day, until a maximum of 2 hours. Give your dog a chew toy as occupation, and remember to remove any collar which could otherwise get stuck somewhere in the crate. As you might end up with a dog that could get aggressive when people get near the crate. Make sure your dog gets used to you entering the crate once in a while. Wait until it has stopped barking or whining for at least 10 seconds before opening. Final Words Hopefully, this has given you some advice for crate training a labradoodle puppy. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. Along with housetraining, this is one of the first things you should do when you get a new puppy. Not all dog owners choose to crate train their dog, but it can be beneficial to both you and your dog. Here are some tips and tricks for crate training your Labradoodle. Why Crate Train? The idea behind crate training is that dogs like to have their own special spot. This place is a safe haven where only they can go. It teaches them to hold it until they are let outside to potty. The crate also becomes comfortable place for them to sleep and a safe way to travel. What to Look for in a Crate You want a crate that is not too big, but also not too small. As your pup grows, you will need to get a larger crate. Your dog should be able to stand up and turn around in their crate with ease. The crate should be comfortable and cozy. Some organizations even rent out crates so you can switch when you need a new size. It should not be used as a place to go for punishment because then your dog will be hesitant to go into the crate. It will take some time to get your Labradoodle fully crate trained, so be patient and positive. First, let your dog explore their new crate. Put the crate in the kitchen or living room and let them look around on their own time. Make the crate more comfortable by placing a blanket or cushion on the inside. After a while, they might want to go inside a have a look for themselves. If your dog has no interest, go ahead a put a toy or a treat in the crate. Once you get to the point where your dog is willing to go in the crate, start feeding them in the crate. Put the food bowls on the inside and let them enter to eat their meals. Where To Put Your Crate Improper crate placement leads to anxiety issues for many dogs and can even cause obedience issues. Start by fitting the crate with the non-slip liner, add a crate mat or comfortable bed, and pop a tasty treat or chew toy inside. Place some treats and a bowl of water outside the crate where you can reach them. Now, you can let the puppy sniff around the crate. Some puppies will accept the crate with ease, going inside right away to get the treats inside. But you can help the process massively by creating a welcoming, comfortable space where your puppy can go to chill out and have fun. Start by putting a handful of tempting treats just inside the crate, put an intriguing toy inside, and talk encouragingly to your puppy. Most dog owners find that having the crate in a room with people will encourage a reluctant puppy to feel happier spending time inside his crate. Also, you must never shut your puppy in the crate for hours without giving him adequate potty breaks. Fun and Games You can make crate training sessions more fun for both of you by using crate games. Crate Feed Your Labradoodle Puppy Labradoodles can be pretty food-focused, and you can use that trait to encourage your puppy to spend time in his crate, considerably speeding up the training process. Have your furry friend watch as you prepare his food. Put the food bowl inside the crate toward the front. The puppy should go into the crate to get his meal. Next time you feed your puppy, put the food bowl further toward the back of the crate so that he has to go in further to get it. Close The Crate Door Once your Labradoodle puppy regards the crate as a safe, comfy space where he wants to be, you can begin closing the crate door while your pet is eating. To begin with, open the door again immediately after your puppy finishes eating. Each mealtime, leave the crate door closed for a little while longer. Back Off! Once your puppy happily stays in his crate, playing with his toys or munching on a treat chew stick, you can move away from the crate. If the puppy begins crying or barking, turn your back on him. Wait for a few minutes until the complaints stop, and your puppy is calm and quiet again. You can turn around and let your pet out of the crate. Observe your puppy. If your pup starts to panic and becomes upset, let him out of the crate and take the training process back a few steps. Increase The Confinement Time Provided your puppy is happy to remain inside the crate with the door closed, you can gradually increase the length of confinement time. Ideally, you want your puppy to remain in the crate for up to an hour before he needs to come out for a toilet break. If your pet begins crying, sniffing the ground, or circling, he needs to relieve himself. Immediately you see any of those signs, pick up your puppy and take him to his designated potty spot. As a rough guideline, puppies up to eight weeks old usually need to urinate every 30 to 60 minutes. When your puppy is older, he will be able to wait for longer between pee breaks. Sleepless Nights? The best place for your puppy to spend the night is in his crate next to your bed. A crate cover can help create a dark, den-like environment for your puppy, helping him settle down and sleep. Potty Stops Young puppies will wake up every couple of hours during the night for a potty break. When accidents happen, do not punish your puppy or scold him. Clean up accidents outside of the crate by using an enzyme cleaning product that will eliminate the scent of pet pee from your floor coverings. Be sure to clean the crate thoroughly to avoid any lingering toilet smells. Use verbal cues from day one of your crate training process. Longer Confinement Time Your puppy needs to learn that spending time confined in his crate is normal for everyday family life. After a couple of weeks of training, your puppy should be able to remain contained in his crate for one to two hours. We recommend spending time playing with your Labradoodle between crate training sessions. How To Deal With Tantrums Puppies are rather like toddlers in that they will almost certainly throw temper tantrums during the early days of crate training, especially when you first close the crate door. When your puppy throws a temper tantrum, turn around and wait until your feisty furry friend settles down again. Once peace is restored, reward your puppy with treats and verbal praise. Moreover, you might also want to read our guide to crate training other dog breeds. Check these out:. They praise it as a wonderful tool and somewhere that their Doodle feels safe and happy. But, others may argue that it is a cruel tool, used to cage dogs. In truth, it will all depend on how an owner uses their crate. Or to turn it into a place your dog hates. But, at the same time, when used correctly, your Labradoodle puppy can love their crate. They can use it as their own safe space away from the noise of everyday family life. In fact, doing so can lead to a very unhappy and stressed puppy. What is Crate Training? A dog crate is simply an enclosed bed area for your Labradoodle puppy. Or when their puppy needs some sleep. For many dogs, a crate will be a safe and secure area where they can take themselves to relax and wind down. Many owners will use a crate at night, when sleep training their puppy. This ensures their puppy is safe at night, but also not causing havoc through the house! However, crates can also be used throughout the day to encourage your puppy to get some much needed sleep in those early months. Or to help them calm down if they get overexcited. On top of this, a dog crate can be a very useful potty training tool. All dogs will try to keep their sleeping area and their potty area separate. But, more on this later. Remember, you are best placed to know what is right for your Doodle! Pros of Crate Training Can keep your Labradoodle out of mischief and safe when you leave them alone for short periods When done correctly, will be a safe and comforting place for your Labradoodle Offers somewhere quiet and calm for young puppies to get some rest throughout the day Can be a very useful potty training tool Can make travelling with your Labradoodle a lot easier Cons of Crate Training If misused, a crate can be a stressful and frightening place for a puppy, eg. And, of course, your puppy is a very different size now than he will be in a few months. The best method here is to choose a crate that should be the right size for an adult Labradoodle. Try to estimate how large your puppy is going to grow. Then, buy a divider for your crate, so that you can section off a smaller section for your puppy to use. Your puppy needs enough room to stand, sit, and turn around comfortably. But any larger than this and your pup may end up using one end of the crate as a toilet area. In the first few days of your puppy being home with you , this can be achieved easily! Leave the crate door open so your puppy can go in and out as they please. Soon enough, your puppy will be willingly going into their crate, and associating it with something that makes them feel great — treats! But, to move on, you can pop your puppy in the crate and close the door. First, open it immediately and treat your puppy for sitting quietly inside. Once your puppy is happy and comfortable doing this, you can progress to shutting and locking the crate door, before opening it and treating your puppy. And, once your puppy is okay with this, you can slowly increase the length of time that the door is closed before opening and treating. Doing so can cause your puppy to be stressed and upset. A stressed puppy is no fun for anyone. If your puppy seems stressed at any point in this process, simply go back a step and reduce the duration. For instance, one time leave then for two seconds, then increase to five seconds, then drop back down to three. You can also put your puppy in their crate through the day before they go to sleep for one of their regular naps. Overall, our aim is to make the crate a wonderful and happy place for your puppy to relax. So, how are you meant to fix things if your puppy starts crying? Instead, move back a step, and increase the duration more slowly, for instance only a second longer. If your puppy is getting visibly distressed, it may be a good idea to give the training a break for a while. Go and play a game with them, or work on some different training to let them calm down, then come back and try again with crate training in a bit. No matter what breed you have, crate training is a lengthy process. At first, the increase of duration before you let your puppy out and treat them will be seconds, not minutes or hours! And, increasing this duration too quickly can lead to a puppy that hates being in their crate. Some may take to crate training much faster than others. For some owners, the process could take a couple of weeks. But, for others, it may take months before they can leave their puppy alone in the crate with no issues. Even if this process takes a little longer for you and your Labradoodle, taking it slowly will be worth it in the long run. Crate Training a Labradoodle Puppy at Night Crate training a Labradoodle puppy at night and through the day is a little different. However, during their first few nights with you, they will be scared and unsure of their surroundings. Being close to you will reduce the chance of your puppy crying through the night. Puppies have very small bladders, and you will need to take them outside multiple times, especially in those first few weeks. Your alternative is to place puppy pads at one end of a large crate. If your puppy cries throughout the night, it could be a sign that they need to go to the toilet. Dog Crates as a Potty Training Tool Throughout the day, a crate can be a great tool for potty training your puppy. Labradoodle puppies, like any other puppies, have very small bladders in their early age. Some may need toilet trips outside as often as every 20 minutes! But, as time goes on, you can start to extend the breaks between these trips by using your crate. Like all other parts of crate training, small steps are key here for building a strong level of trust between you and your puppy, and for successful training. Alternatives to Crates Not everyone likes the idea of putting their Labradoodle puppy in a crate, even though many dogs will feel like they have their own little den. As an alternative to a puppy crate, you could invest in a puppy pen. This will give your puppy room to move around, to play, and more, which a crate does not. Many pens are large enough for you to put a bed inside, a water bowl, and even some puppy pads for potty training purposes. However, despite this extra room, puppies will still need time outside of the pen to interact with you, socialize, exercise through games, and stimulate their brains. Baby gates on doorways are another alternative you might want to consider. This way, you can puppy proof an entire room for your pup to have access to. If you choose either of these two alternatives, you will still need to work hard at training. Particularly at training your puppy to be happy when left alone in their pen or room. This will still be a slow process, like crate training. The Puppy Parenting course is ideal for learning how to crate train, among other important puppy training goals. Crate Training Your Labradoodle Puppy Have you decided that crate training is the right step for you and your Labradoodle puppy? When done properly, crate training can be great, and can offer your puppy a safe and comfortable place of their own to relax. But, make sure you increase duration in the crate very gradually, so that your puppy never feels trapped or distressed when inside. Do you have any other Labradoodle crate training tips? References and Resources Ackerman, L. How do you crate train your new Labradoodle like a pro? First, find a crate that is the right size for your dog and that is secure enough to prevent a sneaky escape. This is the crate I use with my Labradoodle. Introduce the crate slowly by allowing your puppy to freely go in and out before you attempt an extended period of crate time. Before crating, engage in a period of rambunctious play with your puppy, and make sure to give your Labradoodle plenty of potty opportunities. When playtime is over, sit calmly by the crate and brush or pet your puppy to instigate a sleepy-time response. Then, once your puppy is soundly snoring, place her gently into the crate and shut the door without locking it. With time, your Labradoodle will associate his crate with rest time, and crating your Doodle will be a stress-free experience for you both. It emits a life-like heartbeat that can calm and sooth them. You can even add a heat pack to make it even more realistic. Sounds simple, right? The truth is, crating can be one of the simplest training exercises for you and your pup, but it can also be laden with challenges and unexpected issues. If you are ready to begin the process of teaching your Labradoodle how to love his crate, read on for tips on crate selection, introducing your puppy to his new hideaway spot, and tackling issues as they arise. Many first-time dog owners are horrified at the idea of leaving their dog in a small, enclosed space for hours at a time. I love her too much! Dogs are den animals: even though they have been domesticated over thousands of years, they still retain some wild canine instincts. One of those instincts is to rest in a spot that is safe and offers protection. According to the Humane Society of the United States , most dogs actually crave periods of solitude, and a crate gives them a special space where they can secure that solitude when and if they need it. While you may use crate training specifically to house your Labradoodle when you need to leave, you may find that your dog goes in and out of her crate even when you are home. If crate training is approached slowly and methodically, your dog will come to love this special spot. Once your Labradoodle is acclimated to her crate, a wide variety of benefits will be seen. Instead, a dog crate is a sanctuary. Choosing The Right Crate The single most important part of successful crate training is choosing the right crate, and this often leads to Doodle owner panic. There are thousands of crate models on the market today, and it can be absolutely overwhelming for first time Labradoodle owners to know which crate to buy. This is the crate I got for Oliver as a puppy …and he still uses it today. We wrote a helpful guide on choosing the right crate which you can read here. Which materials are safe for your fluffy furball? How secure should the crate be? How big? Does it need attached water and food bowls? Multiple doors? An enclosed top? Everything else can take a back seat. Dogs frequently reposition themselves when resting, and a crate that provides room for this is essential. Dogs kept in crates that are too small may develop anxiety issues or even health problems like joint stiffness. This can be problematic for Labradoodle owners who want to start crate training when their Doodle is still a puppy. A crate that is the perfect size when your dog is six months old is going to be far too small when your puppy reaches a year in age. Large crates with dividers will let you adjust the space as your Labradoodle grows, so a single crate can function well through the various stages of doggy development. Useful Crate Features The size of the crate may be the most important feature, but there are other factors to consider when investing in a high-quality dog crate for your Doodle. These features are not necessities, but they may make your Labradoodle more comfortable and your life a little easier. Here are four simple steps to ensure crate training success. Allow your pup time to get acclimated to this interesting, new cubby. If your snuggle buddy falls asleep in your lap after a period of play, gently move him to the crate and let him continue to sleep with the door open. This accomplishes three things. First, it will tire her out and make her more likely to spend her first crate experience in deep, blissful sleep. Second, it will give her ample time to go potty, which helps to avoid accidents. And lastly, it gives your Labradoodle time to feel connected to you, her human companion. Crating can be stressful for a puppy because they are spending an indeterminate amount of time without you in the home. When you walk out the door, your dog has no idea when, or even if, you will return. Playtime reinforces bonds and helps your Labradoodle puppy feel nurtured and engaged. You can transition your puppy from exuberance to exhaustion by sitting quietly and petting or brushing him. When your Labradoodle is relaxed and starting to sleep, place him in the crate and continue soothing him until he falls asleep. Then, quietly shut the crate door and immediately leave. If you crate your Labradoodle for four hours the very first time, she is going to have an accident. This will lead to discouragement, frustration, and even fear of the crate. You want to establish crate milestones that your puppy can easily achieve. Each time you return to a puppy who has successfully stayed in her crate with no issues, you reinforce the crate as a positive location. Start your Labradoodle off with periods in the crate ranging from a few minutes up to an hour. Once she is acclimated to staying in the crate alone for an hour, you can gradually begin increasing crate time. Common Crate Training Mistakes In the world of dog training, a simple mistake can often lead to months of problem behaviors that need to be slowly and meticulously corrected. Here are some of the most common crate training mistakes made by first-time Labradoodle owners. Rushing the process: Dogs need time to acclimate to changes, so if you introduce a scary-looking crate and immediately shut your pup inside this unfamiliar area, it may lead to anxiety or panic. Forgetting the potty break: Puppies can only hold their bladders for a couple of hours at a time, so be sure to give your Labradoodle a chance to go potty immediately before putting him in the crate. When you return, immediately take your puppy to go potty, and praise him when he goes. Punishing with the crate: If your puppy associates her crate with punishment, it will cease to be a safe and relaxing environment for her. Never punish your puppy by banishing her to the crate. Similarly, never punish your puppy for soiling her crate. Simply take her outside for a potty attempt, praise her if she goes, and clean the crate promptly to remove any lingering odors. Crating multiple dogs together: Yes, puppies love to snuggle with one another, and it can be tempting to think that crating two dogs together provides them with companionship and comfort. However, as puppies grow they will need their own spaces, and separating two pups that have spent months in the same crate can be traumatic. If you have multiple dogs, crate them separately but in close proximity to one another. Cluttered crate environment: Sure, you want your puppy to be entertained while crated, but the crate should predominantly be an environment of serenity. One toy is enough to provide your Labradoodle with something to do without cluttering up the zen-like atmosphere of the crate. There are issues that can pop up between pup and crate, and these may be chalked up to a mistake made during the training process, an issue with the crate itself, or even just the specific personality of your dog. My Labradoodle cries constantly when I put him in his crate. After all, who wants to hear their precious puppy crying? If your Labradoodle whines or barks immediately after being put into his crate, sometimes waiting for him to cry himself to sleep is the best course of action. If your puppy is panicking i. Give your puppy calm, soothing pets and snuggles until he calms down. Then, take one more trip outside for a potty break, and try to introduce your dog to the crate again. You may need to do this several times until your pup has worn himself out to the point where he can fall asleep in his crate. My puppy always makes messes in her crate. If your pup has too much room, use a divider to cordon her to one side of the crate to avoid messes. Labradoodle puppies younger than one year need to go potty once every two hours to be comfortable! Try to schedule a few mid-day breaks for your Labradoodle puppy. Finally, you might want to watch how much water your Labradoodle is drinking in the hour leading up to crate time. Congratulations, you have a strong-willed pup on your hands. Some dogs will do everything in their power to avoid being put in their crate. Your dog may brace himself against the crate door, drag his paws on the ground, or turn into a puddle of dead weight and force you to manhandle him through the opening. Because he hates the thought of being separated from you. Be sure to spend plenty of time playing with your Labradoodle puppy before crating him. Also, some dogs will relax when they are brushed for a few minutes before crating. Crate your Labradoodle firmly but calmly. My Labradoodle is an escape artist, and no crate can contain her. If you have a little Houdini on your hands, you might need to get creative. Some dog owners, however, have to resort to zip ties to keep their magic canines in check. Every bed I put in the crate gets shredded within hours, what gives? Your Labradoodle puppy has an innate desire to chew, and this desire can only be redirected, never eliminated. Dogs are perfectly happy resting on a hard surface for a few hours at a time. Crate your dog without the bed, and leave the comfy cushion for times when you are at home and supervising. Next, find some sturdy toys that will stand up to persistent chewing, and put one in the crate with your Labradoodle. You can find toys that can be filled with goodies to occupy your Doodle pup for hours on end, but any toy will act as a healthy outlet for that chewing instinct. Some owners find success by purchasing several toys and rotating them in the crate on different days. Puppies are information sponges, and they love the stimulation and reward that comes from learning new tricks. First, try not to act differently when you are preparing to leave your puppy. If your dog senses that you are stressed by the act of leaving, she will internalize that stress. Next, stay positive and upbeat, and when you are ready to leave do so promptly and without fanfare. Start with short trips away from your dog, so she can learn that you will always return after leaving. Finally, make sure her crate is comfortable and stress-free, so she has a space to relax while awaiting your homecoming. If you have to leave your Labradoodle for more than four hours without a break, you will probably need to make arrangements for him to get a reprieve from the crate. Apps like Wag or Rover are great ways to locate passionate dog-lovers who will visit your dog mid-day for a walk or some much-needed play time. Doggy daycare facilities are also incredibly beneficial. Not only will your dog be active and exercising throughout the day, but these communal dog spaces teach valuable socialization skills. Leaving your dog crated for an extended period of time will make him uncomfortable and could lead to crate anxiety, so be sure to plan ahead. Wolves rarely sleep in the open, preferring instead to find a cave or hollow where they can be protected on all sides while they snooze. Their canine cousins still possess this innate desire, and a Labradoodle left to his own devices inside a sprawling home can feel anxious and unprotected. These feelings of anxiety coupled with the freedom to roam are the only necessary ingredients in a recipe for disaster. Start crate training as early as possible, and take it slow. Eventually, your Labradoodle will recognize her crate as her own special space, and she will likely seek it out when she needs some downtime. Related Posts:. However you must teach your puppy all of your expectations, gently and firmly from day one. Decide the rules you want for your puppy, and teach them those rules right from the beginning, such as: not getting on furniture, not jumping up on people. If you allow that in the beginning, it will be very difficult to break the habit. Getting Prepared for A New Puppy! Puppy Chewing The more things you have for your puppy to chew, the less likely they are to chew up your things. The need to chew will go on for at least 18 months, although they may always love having things to chew and toys. You will also need a premium puppy food of your choice. We use an All Life Stages dog food made primarily of chicken and rice. Dogs originally were den animals, they burrowed holes underground, where they were safe from predators and nice and warm. They instinctively do not go to the bathroom in their dens. A crate is a safe haven for your puppy. Never take your puppy out of the crate until they are quiet, just sit patiently, without speaking, until they are quiet for a few seconds, and you will teach them to be quiet in the cage. Every time you take your puppy out of the crate, take them immediately outside to the place you want them to go to the bathroom. Puppies find places to go to the bathroom with their feet. When I take them out to the yard, to grass, rocks or dirt, which ever you prefer , they get used to that feeling on their feet and it becomes part of their potty que or trigger. If you allow your puppy to have accidents on your rugs or hardwood floors even by accident then that can quickly become their potty texture preference. Same goes for potty pads. Using potty pads only teaches your puppy that going potty on absorbent material is Ok. Not a great idea. Try to avoid accidents at all costs. This way, you will teach your dog to go to the bathroom on command. This can be very convenient if you are traveling or leaving the house. Stay away from the puppy until they are done with their business, keep other animals, children and any other distraction away from them. As soon as your puppy is done, immediately give them a dog treat and praise, and praise and praise. Then, stand back and see if there is more forthcoming and repeat the process. Your Puppy At Night. .If your puppy cries in the middle of the night, get up, sit by the cage until they are quiet for a minute or two, then and only then, take them outside to their spot, give the potty command to go, and stand quietly ignoring them until they are done, do not instigate play or talk in an excited voice. When their bladder gets mature, this nighttime potty break should stop. Read my post about how to stop puppy whining and crying in the crate! Then after that every hour for a couple of days, 2 hours for a few days. When they finish going to the bathroom, praise and treats. Never hit or yell harshly at your puppy, or they will be afraid of you, and will develop fear of you, rather than trust. It may take months before your dog is completely housetrained, be patient, it is all worth it! When you feed your puppy, stroke their back and head, and tell them how good they are. You want them to be used to having someone touch them when they eat. When you sit down to eat, ignore the puppy, or put them in the crate. When you have to leave make sure to crate your puppy or put them in a x-pen setup, when you get home, even after a short absence, calmly take your puppy outside, talk gently to them, let them go to the bathroom, take them back inside and talk to them calmly, pet them slowly and try to be as calm as you can. If you come back and get them excited, they will try to recreate that excited feeling when you are gone, because that means you will be home soon. Puppies are like any baby, they need lots of attention, a dog that does not get attention, will get anxious and nervous and may chew and chew furniture, rugs, shoes, cords, anything to get rid of the anxiety. Read my post on crate and x-pen setups for potty training puppies! Taking your Puppy to Class Take your puppy to obedience school. An untrained puppy can be a nuisance instead of a pleasure. Another important benefit, perhaps the most important, is puppies will meet many new people and dogs in puppy class, which will greatly help socialize them, and make them more people and dog friendly. When I take them out to the yard, to grass, rocks or dirt, which ever you prefer , they get used to that feeling on their feet. When they get to your home, your puppy will be used to the surface that you want them to use. This teaches them that talking to you actually works. Going Potty Outside Step by Step — Take your puppy outside on leash, take them to their designated spot, put them down, and give the potty command, stand back without touching them, and wait a bit for them to go to the bathroom. When you know your puppy is done going to the bathroom, praise them, give them a treat or a snuggle and then take them immediately back into the house, unless you are going to play with them outside. Our Main Menu.

Bernedoodles are a carefully-bred combination of Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles. Bernese Mountain Dogs, originating from Switzerland, were first used for driving cattle and to protect farmyards. They are robust and powerful, renowned for their ability to pull many times their own weight. This history creates the image of a hardy, strong worker, yet their owners know them best for their placid, sweet nature. They are also large dogs known for shedding lots of hair. The Poodle is a small dog that is non-shedding, but is known for being more high-strung. They are known and loved for their intelligence and prancing nature. When we cross-breed, the result is generally an intelligent puppy who is a gentle, sociable, enthusiastic companion. They are gentle with babies and toddlers, yet energetic enough to play in the yard with teenagers. They are also sensitive to the elderly, which makes this dog perfect for any family! The Mini Bernedoodle is a very dedicated dog, and does not like being left alone for long periods of time. This makes this dog well-suited for homes with plenty of activity, or for those who have someone in the house most of the day. They are generally very tolerant of other pets. With the energy they have, this dog will be perfect for your hiking or jogging companion. A good rule is to exercise them 5 minutes for every month of their age. For example, a 4 month old puppy will be able to take a 20 minute walk without tiring him out. We work hard to socialize and train our puppies to be well-mannered and obedient. In spite of this, they may still have some behaviour issues if you do not continue training. They will do best with continued guidance and direction. It is our pleasure to present to you the Mini Bernedoodle! We hope you adopt one today! Bernedoodle Puppies in Missouri and Throughout the U. What is a Bernedoodle Bernedoodle Basics If you are looking for a smart and loyal dog that will be your companion for life, look no further than the Bernedoodle. This breed is a combination of the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. These hybrid fluffy pooches combine the best of both worlds: the intelligence and low shedding coat of the Poodle combined with the laid-back, yet incredibly loyal nature of the Bernese. The goal with crossbreeding these two popular dogs was to create a perfect companion for families of all shapes and sizes. Bernedoodles can vary widely depending on the breeder. Their name may sound a little funny, but these dogs make wonderful pets, and they are especially great with children. These are truly special pups. So, if you are looking for a fluffy dog that will be your companion for life, look no further than the Bernedoodle! This combination is called the F1 Bernedoodle or a first generation cross. It is believed that these puppies grow up to be much healthier than both of their parent breeds and that they display the most desirable mix of traits from both. It is even possible to have a Bernedoodle with more or less than 50 percent of each parent breed in its heritage if a first-generation Bernedoodle is mated with either a Poodle or a Bernese Mountain Dog. Even though these hybrid dogs have been around less than two decades, the breed is already insanely popular. The family tree of the adorable Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mix speaks volume about its qualities. This is a special dog made up of some of the finest breeds around. Anyone seeking out a Bernedoodle can look forward to one of the finest designer dogs ever bred. How much of each personality will appear in your Bernedoodle depends entirely on the amount of each breed that is involved in the cross. It can even depend on the individual pooch. Littermates that have the same parents might turn out to favor different lineages, with some leaning more towards their Poodle or Bernese roots than others. However, for the most part, Bernedoodles are known as a well-rounded, playful, and affectionate breed. They do well with children and they love to spend time with their families. These are quite affectionate and loyal animals, regardless of which of their parents they take more of their personality from. Health and Life Expectancy For the most part, the Bernedoodle is a healthy breed. In fact, the creators behind this designer breed claim that elimination of health issues typical for the purebred dogs is what drove them to crossbreed dogs in the first place. The fact that their gene pool is much larger is one of the reasons why, in many cases, crossbred dogs are less likely to develop congenital conditions than purebred dogs. However, in no scenario is it possible for someone to predict how healthy any dog will be throughout their entire life. The best you can hope for is that a proper diet, plenty of exercise and regular visits to the vet will help keep your pooch healthy and happy. Also, remember that all dogs are susceptible to health issues, even those who are bred carefully to avoid them. Life Expectancy As Bernedoodle is still a new breed which is still being perfected, there is not enough information about their lifespan. While there is no way to say with certainty how long Bernedoodles live, breeders estimate that the average life expectancy of a Bernedoodle is between 12 and 15 years. Of course, there are bound to be slight variations due to the difference in sizes, so a tiny Bernedoodle might live to be 17 years old, while the standard sized are closer to the shorter end of the range. Welcome to Kentucky Mountain Doodles Hope you enjoy our new and improved, user friendly website. Same great business, just a different look. What we offer… In Depth House Training For almost four years now, we've been offering multiple different levels of house training. These options range from introduction to beginning in-house training all the way up to advanced, fully house-trained puppies. Transportation Services Getting a puppy to you will be no issue at all! If you are unable to come pick the puppy up in person, we have two wonderful ground transport teams that can bring the puppy right to your door. Both of these companies are fully licensed and insured, with a love for travel and fur babies. Our Story… Over 19 years ago, we began our journey by breeding and training Labrador Retrievers, which turned into Labradoodles. We no longer breed Labradoodles, and we only have the occasional Aussiedoodle litter. Being a small family-owned business, we only have a few litters per year, which allows us to keep our main focus on producing the very best, highly trainable, hypoallergenic, and non-shedding puppies. View Our Available Bernedoodle Puppies! Standard Bernedoodles are bigger than Mini Bernedoodles reaching weights of pounds. They average inches in height at the shoulders when fully grown. Our Standard Bernedoodle puppies are all 1st generation-F1 variety puppies. They have purebred Bernese Mountain dogs for moms and the dads are Standard poodles. Their Standard Bernedoodles life expectancy is years old. Blue Diamond Bernedoodles have a loving, easy-going, and calm temperament. Bernedoodles are very loyal and social and love to spend time with their parents. Standard Bernedoodles need regular grooming because of their curly and thick coats. Shedding is very minimal after their first haircut and grooming. This breed is known to be a hypoallergenic choice. Here at Blue Diamond Family Kennels, we specialize in breeding Standard Bernedoodles along with a few other great breeds. We have teamed up with a few other reputable Bernedoodle breeders that breed and raise Bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. On our Standard Bernedoodle puppies page you will see all of our available puppies for sale. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Frankfort Kentucky and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups!

For the complete list please see our Listings of Breeders page. In the case of boxers from a reputable breeder, you will usually pay more than what an owner is charging since these breeders usually have to pay higher licensing and insurance fees as well as build kennels and other facilities that would be suitable for breeding dogs. In addition, reputable breeders will allow you to take the boxer home with a signed contract that prevents them from breeding their dog or selling it to other people. However, there are usually people who breed boxers as a side hobby and will be quite willing to make a deal with you. Although it is not recommended that you buy from these people, they usually give the dog away for free or for a very low price because they are trying to get rid of their dogs. In addition, buying from someone who breeds boxers as a side hobby may be cheaper. How to Find A Responsible Boxer Breeder in Missouri To find a responsible boxers breeder in Missouri, the best thing to do is consult your veterinarian. Since there are many reputable breeders in this state, asking people who live nearby would be advisable as well. If you cannot ask anyone locally for help, then using the Internet will also allow you to look up lists of accredited dog breeders which may give you some leads on finding reputable breeders. Another important factor to consider if you want to buy a boxer puppy in Missouri is where the dog will live. Although Missouri does not have any requirements for the living conditions of dogs, it is always best to find out how big the kennel or barn will be and what the weather conditions are like in order to make sure that your boxer puppy can adapt to its new environment. Visit Your Missouri Boxer Breeder in Person In order to find boxers for sale in Missouri from a reputable breeder, it is important that you visit their kennel or farm. Although there are many breeders who advertise through the Internet and will ship a boxer puppy to your home, it is always best to buy a dog from a local breeder since they can ensure you good customer service. Visiting your Boxer breeder in person will also give you a chance to see the kind of environment your boxer is living in. This will allow you to determine if their breeding practices help promote good health and temperament as well as how they treat the dogs. It also allows you to connect with the breeder and makes it easier for you both to establish a strong relationship. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your Boxer Breeder in Missouri When you are searching for a Missouri boxer breeder, making sure that the boxing breeders in your area are trustworthy is just one of the most important factors to consider. You must know that not all reputable boxer breeders would be aware of how to raise their puppies correctly. References will be of great help in making sure that you will only be dealing with the most reliable boxer breeders in Missouri. For these reasons, asking for references is one of the best ways to ensure that they are professional Missouri boxer breeders. Ask Your Missouri Boxer Breeder if You Can Meet Past Customers Asking your Missouri boxer breeder to introduce you to their past clients is one of the most effective ways in order to determine if they are professional or not. If possible, you can also ask for referrals at this time. If these references and referrals are promising, then it basically means that they are reliable boxing breeders in Missouri. However, always keep in mind that not all reputable boxing breeders would provide these things right away especially when it comes to the safety of their puppies. Take note that responsible and trustworthy boxers breeders would look out for the welfare of their pets before anything else. This is why you must always make it a point to trust the boxer breeder in Missouri only when they are willing to hand over these things. Does the boxer breeder in Missouri that you are considering working with have a good relationship with their veterinarian? This basically means that they are responsible when it comes to taking care of their pets and not just looking at them as a source of income. You just need to remember that not all reputable boxer dog breeders would be easy to work with. In fact, you should already know this when looking for boxers in Missouri since not everyone has the same standards and expectations. This is one of the most common signs which point out that you might be dealing with an unethical Missouri boxer breeder at this time. They ask for payment during the process of the transaction. Before getting to work with Missouri boxer breeders, they must first know what kind of payment they are looking forward to accepting. If they immediately ask for payment even before doing anything, then this is one discouraging sign that points out that you might be dealing with an unethical boxer breeder at this present time. To them, money comes first and not the welfare of their pets. What good does a verbal agreement do? There are a lot of people who would prefer written contracts since these things hold both sides accountable. This is the kind of question which you should ask your breeder even before anything else. If they keep on telling you that nothing is wrong with them, this is yet another discouraging sign which points out that there might be something wrong with their facilities right now. So make sure to ask this question before agreeing to any contract. Remember that this is not just another pet since they are known to be quite destructive. So if you want them to do this somewhere else, make sure that you give them something which they could use for this purpose like chew toys and bones. But at the same time, it will also depend upon their age. If they are still young, then it might take some time before they would chew on things other than their own toys and bones. Just keep in mind that these pets would eventually grow up one day, and they will start exploring your house. This is the only way for them to learn what kinds of things are appropriate or not. You must never forget about this since this would have a long-term effect on their behavior later on in life. Just be patient when it comes to training them so everything would go according to plan. If these pets go to the bathroom inside your house, then this can lead to a lot of serious problems for both you and them. Remember that training your pet is essential because it helps strengthen your relationship with each other over time. They need enclosure crate training:Crate training works hand-in-hand with potty training which is why you should not forget about this one thing above all else. They would give you some good advice which will help improve the overall relationship that you have with your pet. Just have patience with them since they will eventually learn what you want them to do regardless of how long it may take. Enjoy your brand new Boxer puppy. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Raising quality puppies since ! We strive to raise the highest quality puppies and to provide them and their parents with the best care possible. Our puppies are raised with lots of TLC from us, our children, and our grandchildren so you can be sure they have been pre-spoiled and very socialized before leaving us. We believe a puppy should be a member of your family and should live inside your home with you. Puppies should be given every opportunity to have a healthy and happy life. We try to make sure our puppies are placed in loving homes where they will receive the best life has to offer them! If you are looking to add a puppy to your family, please browse our site and check out our available puppies. You may contact us by phone or email to discuss the adoption process. We have always passed our inspections and have never had any non compliant issues. We are always praised by our inspectors for having a top quality kennel. Our licensed veterinarian comes to our home to see all of our dogs on a regular basis so he can inspect them and provide them with a thorough, hands on well check up in addition to all regular veterinarian care. As members of these organizations, we receive the most up to date news, education, and veterinarian tips that help us take the best possible care of our dogs. We take great pride in our kennel and our dogs. If you are looking to add a new puppy to your family, please contact us for a complete list of available puppies. We would love to help you find your new family member! We offer a one year health guarantee with every puppy we sell and a lifetime of breeder support. Please review our health guarantee and contact us if you have any questions. Being a member of AKC's Bred with Heart program means we provide our dogs with important genetic health testing that can rule out health problems with our puppies. We are also licensed and inspected by the state and USDA. Our Boxers are bred for intelligence, conformation, health, and socialability. There many champions in the ancestry of our Boxers. Trojan is OFA certified for his hips, elbows, heart and, thyroid. Our males are OFA certified against hip displacia. Romeo and Romeo's sire are OFA certified. Zaccur is OFA certified. Harley was OFA certified, which is a sires of many of our females. Romeo's Grand sire was a champion. The older female are OFA certified for their heart and thyroid. The puppies come with a 1 year health guarantee for genetic defects. All are included in the price of your puppy. Puppies are ready to go to their new homes at 8 weeks of age. All puppies will have their tails cropped and dew claws removed. They will be current on shots and dewormings. If a deposit is being send in the mail, the puppy is marked as pending sale. When the deposit arrives the puppy is marked an sold. If the payment does not arrive in a week, the puppy will be placed back for sale. Paypal is available for payment. More pictures of the puppies are available on request.

Fruits are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are good for us. Indeed, some fruits are superfoods and help fight cancer. But are all fruits good for dogs too? The answer is both yes and no. While many fruits are safe for dogs to eat, some fruits are toxic , and some carry unwanted risks. For example, dogs cannot eat avocados and grapes, while the pits in cherries and plums can also pose a problem. Stop Googling - Ask a Real Vet On the contrary, some other fruits help strengthen their immune system, improve skin, reduce inflammations, and aid digestion. With this in mind, for your dog's well-being, it's essential to know which fruits dogs can eat and which may be dangerous for their health. Here's your guide to fruity goodness for your pup. Apples Can dogs eat apples? Come on, who would resist munching on a crunchy apple? Apples pose no significant concerns for dogs' health except for apple seeds. They usually contain traces of cyanide, and dogs should avoid them. Also, an apple core is a choking hazard. To keep tails wagging, feed your dog sliced, deseeded apples! Bananas Bananas come in convenient packaging the skin and makes for a healthy snack on the move. They are packed with potassium, which is essential for a strong heart and efficient kidneys. Bananas are also decent snacks for dogs, thanks to their high biotin, magnesium, and fiber content. But be aware bananas are high in sugar. If your dog gains weight easily, give bananas only as an occasional treat. Also, be wary of peels. Banana peels are not toxic to canines, but they can cause intestinal blockage. Blackberries These berries are juicy, delicious, and full of vitamins. But can dogs eat blackberries? The rich dark color hints that blackberries are high in antioxidants, along with vitamin A and C. They contribute to a strong immune system and healthy skin in dogs. Too many blackberries can cause tummy upset and diarrhea, so you should mind the portions. As for the serving type, feel free to give fresh or baked blackberries in moderate amounts. Blueberries Are fruits good for dogs? It's a big "yes" for blueberries. These juicy bubbles of goodness are rich in phytonutrients and antioxidants. Dubbed a superfood by some, blueberries are also packed with fiber and phytochemicals, making them a solid treat for your pup. Blueberries are an ideal training treat. An individual blueberry gives a rewarding pop of sweetness with added antioxidants and vitamins. Melon Can dogs eat cantaloupe melon? Yes, but only in moderation. This fruit has high sugar content. Diabetic dogs and those prone to weight gain should only eat cantaloupe as an occasional treat. Prepare cantaloupe for your pet by removing the seeds and cutting the flesh into chunks. Don't let your pup lick the melon skin as it may harbor bacteria. Also, cantaloupe rinds, much like watermelon ones, should be removed to eliminate the choking risks. On the plus side, cantaloupe is rich in vitamin A, B, and C. These are great for digestive health and strengthen the immune system. Cranberries Cranberries are fine treats for dogs, which your pooch might enjoy. These make a tart treat, which isn't suited to every dog's taste. Cranberries contain vitamin C and are naturally acidic, which makes them a natural urinary disinfectant. For this reason, cranberries are recommended for dogs with urinary tract issues. As with many fruits, cranberries are good in moderation. Can dogs eat cranberries? Yes Will all dogs enjoy eating cranberries? Possibly not. Coconut Coconut milk is heralded for its health-giving properties, but what about coconut meat? Can dogs eat coconut? Coconut is arguably just as good for dogs as oil. It is a source of natural anti-inflammatories, which can benefit conditions like arthritis, skin allergies , and inflammatory bowel disease. However, the upside of coconut is also its weakness. Coconut meat contains medium-chain triglycerides a form of fat. It makes it unsuitable for dogs prone to pancreatitis or those with delicate stomachs. Coconut meat is high calorie, so pooches on diets should avoid it. Honeydew Melon And can dogs eat honeydew? It is a sugary sweet treat suitable for most dogs, except for pups with diabetes. The high sugar content makes it unwise to give honeydew to a diabetic dog. It also contains traces of copper and iron, which makes for healthy red blood cells. Honeydew has to be served without any seeds and preferably cut into tiny cubes. Remember that honeydew is still a treat because feeding too much may cause diarrhea and stomach upset. Kiwi Kiwi is a safe fruit for dogs that contains healthy doses of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. It also contains flavonoids and carotenoids, which are great antioxidants. They protect against cancer, help cell rejuvenation, and strengthen the immune system. This juicy snack contributes towards healthy skin, blood circulation, and the digestive system. Although canines' nutritional requirements are different from humans', kiwi is still an excellent snack for your pooch. Mango Mangos make for a tasty, nutritious treat. But can dogs eat mango as a part of a regular diet? Rich in carotenoids, potassium, vitamins, and minerals, strips of mango flesh are sweet treats for pups. However, mango should still be served sparingly or as a part of a balanced canine diet. Be careful to remove the hard pit. Like apples, the mango pit contains cyanide which is toxic to dogs and interferes with breathing. Also, a mango pit swallowed whole will block the bowel, requiring urgent surgery to remove it. Oranges Oranges are rich in vitamin C and can help flush toxins from the body for a natural detox. Peel your pooch an orange to boost their skin and coat condition. Sweet and juicy, oranges are safe for dogs and taste great. Generally, oranges, tangerines, and mandarines should still be an occasional treat and not a regular diet. Avoid feeding orange skin, large amounts of pith, or seeds to your dog. These parts of an orange contain an oil that may irritate dogs' stomachs and is best avoided. Pears Are pears good for dogs? Shortly, pear is a safe fruit for canines. Vitamin K is essential to aid blood clotting, while vitamin C makes for a strong immune system. As with other fruits, to get the most of pears, you should remove the pit and seeds first since they contain cyanide in tiny amounts. Besides that, pears are best served fresh rather than canned with sweet syrup. Pineapple Is pineapple good for dogs? The short answer is a big "yes. Pineapples contain vitamins, folate, and zinc which are great for a dog's digestion and immune system. This fruit also contains bromelain, which helps break down proteins and makes them easier to digest. Be aware pineapples are sweet and sugary, so feed in moderation. Also, big chunks can pose a choking hazard, so keep those pieces treat-sized. Raspberries Rich in vitamin C, manganese, and fiber, raspberries are a tasty antioxidant treat. But are raspberries good for dogs? Thanks to their nutritional benefits, an occasional raspberry won't hurt your dog. However, raspberries might contain micro-traces of natural xylitol , which is toxic to dogs. It means that dogs can have raspberries in moderation but don't feed them by the bucket load. Strawberries And what about strawberries? Thanks to their enzyme content and a solid nutritional profile, strawberries are also great for dogs' health. This substance can mildly whiten a pup's teeth, which is another great perk. On the downside, strawberries contain a protein which gives strawberries their red color which causes an allergic reaction in some individuals. The signs include swelling of the dog's lips and a sore mouth, some of the common allergic reactions in dogs. Tangerines Can dogs eat tangerines? Much like oranges and other citrus fruits, tangerines are safe for dogs to eat. In some cases, tangerines can also cause stomach upsets. They should still be served in moderation because of their high sugar content. So if your dog has an excessive weight , mind that tangerines should be more of an occasional treat. Watermelon Think of watermelon as a refreshing and healthy drink. But is watermelon good for dogs? The answer is "yes," but with a few precautions. Watermelon rinds are choking hazards, so you should remove them in the first place. There are fruits dogs can't eat because the flesh is dangerous, or the pits will make your fur friend ill. Apricots Can dogs have apricots? Not really. While the fruit is succulent and bursting with potassium and beta carotene, the pit is dangerous. Just like apples, plums, and peaches, apricot pits are a source of toxic cyanide. And to make matters worse, the pit is the right size to lodge in a small dog's gut which can cause a serious blockage. And if your pooch eats too many apricots, they can cause diarrhea and stomach upset. As a compromise, always slice the fruit of the pit when giving apricots to your dog. Avocado You or one of your friends probably like to eat avocado toast for breakfast. They are really nutritious and healthy. But not everything that is good for humans is good for animals. Avocados contain a substance called persin , which is toxic to dogs. The concentration of persin is highest in the peel, but even the flesh contains too much for a dog to handle. Compared to other animals, dogs are the most resistant to persin, but the risk is not worth it because avocados contain too little for a dog to eat properly. How do you know if your dog has been poisoned by a peach? The symptoms of peach poisoning are vomiting and diarrhea. If your dog has accidentally eaten an avocado, contact your veterinarian for advice. You'll get a quick response from a certified veterinarian at any time for any health-related question, including your dog's diet. Cherries Cherry pulp is delicious, but there's not much of it compared to the size of the pit. So, can dogs eat cherries? A significant risk here is your dog gorges on the tasty pulp and will gobble down the pits by accident. While technically cherry flesh is OK for dogs, the high cyanide content in stems, leaves, and pit make this fruit unsuitable for canines. Not only do the pits contain cyanide, causing breathing difficulties and death, but they will also block the bowel. Untreated, this damages the gut wall and can be fatal. Dates Are dates good for dogs? Although dates aren't toxic, they aren't recommended as a dog treat. For one thing, only the flesh is edible and can have at least some nutritional benefits. A dog wolfing down whole dates, including the pits, risks a serious bowel obstruction. Also, dates are high in fiber and sugar, so eating more than a few causes doggy diarrhea. Don't panic if your dog snaffles the odd date, but this isn't something to encourage. Figs Can dogs have figs? They are one of those fruits dogs can't eat except in strict moderation. The advice is to feed no more than one or two fresh figs per week as their high fiber content causes diarrhea in dogs. In addition, figs contain ficin, which can be irritant to some dogs. Signs of a reaction include heavy drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. Don't panic if this happens; fig flesh isn't a toxin, just an irritant, so the symptoms should pass. Grapes Grapes head the list of fruits dogs can't eat. Both grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs. Feeding even a few can cause kidney failure in some unlucky dogs. The toxin is as yet unidentified, but this doesn't change the fatal facts. Never feed grapes or raisins to dogs. If your dog consumed grapes accidentally, contact your vet immediately. Peaches Can dogs eat peaches? Vitamin A in this fruit can help dogs fight infection. While it's fine to offer your dog slices of fresh peach, once again, it's the pit that's a hazard. Still, don't forget that fruits should be just a tiny part of a dog's diet, and the same applies to peaches. The pit is the perfect size to lodge in the intestine and cause a life-threatening blockage. Plus, pits contain cyanide. Enough said. Plums Can dogs eat plums? The problem with plums is their size relative to the pit. The fruit is okay to eat, but there's not much of it. A dog nose down in a bowl of plums will also eat the pits, which has potentially life-threatening consequences. Yes, the pits contain cyanide, but more worrisome is that a pit is a suitable size to block the intestine. Therefore, plums should be avoided unless you first slice the fruit of the pit. Hints and Tips Yes, your dog can have too much of a good thing. A fruit binge is likely to upset your dog's stomach, so take things slowly. Introduce one new fruit at a time. It allows your dog's digestion to get used to the new treat. As your dog adjusts to the sweet goodness and fiber, it's OK slowly to offer more. If your dog gets diarrhea at any stage, then rein back on the quantity for a few days. As a rule, if we the humans typically don't eat the skin or the pit, then neither should the dog. Be aware that dogs will not pick out the pits, and if swallowed, it can be very dangerous. Remember to feed only the fruit and carefully remove seeds or the pit. Also, don't forget to wash fruit before serving to remove contaminating bacteria that could cause illness. Can My Dog Eat Fruit? Fruits are good for pups, with many positive health benefits. From better bladder health to slimming down your dog, fruits can improve your dog's overall well-being. How about making small changes, such as switching some commercial treats to fruit? It will strengthen the dog's immune system and give them a glossier coat. Just be careful to avoid those fruits dangerous to dogs such as avocado and grapes. Remember to feed fruit in moderation, especially at first, to allow your dog's tummy to adapt to all that sweet goodness. Cheers to happier, healthier fur-friends! Dog fruits chart. Plus they make a tasty dog treat! Of course, certain fruits and vegetables will be better for your dog than others. Best Fruits for Dogs Here are some tasty and healthy fruits for dogs that are safe to feed to pups in small quantities. Always consult your veterinarin before adding a new treat to your dog's diet. Plus cantaloupes are loaded vitamin A and lots of beta carotene, which helps reduce the risk of cancer and prevents cell damage. Just avoid feeding your dog the rind of the cantaloupe, as it can cause intestinal damage. Make sure to remove all seeds from an apple before giving it to your dog. Apple seeds contain cyanide, and eating them over time can be hazardous. Treats made with real apple, like Nutro Crunchy dog treats , give your dog the apple flavor without any of the mess. As an added bonus, the tannins found in blueberries also help prevent urinary tract infections. Blue Buffalo Blue Bits dog treats are the perfect training tool, packed with antioxidants from blueberries and DHA to support cognitive development in young dogs. The seeds and rinds of watermelon should also be avoided, as they are too difficult for dogs to digest and can cause damage. Best Vegetables for Dogs Check out our list of vegetables for dogs that can add a boost of nutrition to their diet. Be sure to check with a veterinarian before giving your pet a new treat. There are plenty of pumpkin dog supplements, like Nummy Tum-Tum organic supplement. This unique ingredient can help alleviate diarrhea and constipation. And it has been known to promote his overall cardiovascular health. Green beans are good for dogs because of their omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, C, and K. And your dog should be eating brussels sprouts for their vitamins K and G, manganese, folate, fiber, potassium and vitamins A, B1 and B6. See more fruits that safe for dogs: By: Cheryl Lock. Can dogs eat fruit? The answer depends on the type of plant, as only some are safe for canine consumption. We know that fruit is rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, making it an excellent choice for humans, but dogs have very different nutritional requirements. Some fruits can benefit dogs by: Strengthening their immune system Aiding digestion Improving their skin and coat However, in other cases, the risks associated with dogs eating fruit can far outweigh the potential benefits. For example, doing so could cause dog diarrhea , constipation, diabetes, or food poisoning toxicosis. What fruits can dogs eat? Many dogs enjoy snacking on healthy, fruity treats between meals. Still, you should only let them indulge from time to time to avoid the risk of adverse side effects. So, what are some of the best fruits to feed dogs? Apples Apples are great for dogs are chock-full of vitamin C, calcium, phosphorus, and dietary fiber. You can safely feed them to your dog, but make sure to remove the seeds because apples can contain small amounts of cyanide. Cut the apple into smaller pieces to make it easier for your pet to chew and digest. Bananas Bananas are rich in potassium, biotin, vitamins, and fiber. Just keep an eye on them and go to the vet at any signs of distress. Blueberries Blueberries are good for dogs because they're loaded with vitamin C, antioxidants, phytonutrients, and dietary fiber. Strawberries Strawberries are another great alternative to store-bought dog treats. On the flip side, these bright red berries are high in sugar, so be sure to serve them in moderation. They can also cause an allergic reaction in some dogs, so make sure to be extra careful when feeding them to your pet. Raspberries Raspberries are low in calories but rich in antioxidants, potassium, copper, manganese, iron, magnesium, folic acid, and fiber. These tiny red berries are one of the best fruits for dogs in their late years due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Xylitol is a natural sweetener found in many fruits and veggies, as well as other human food products, but toxic to animals in high doses. As with the other fruits on this list, make sure to feed them in moderate quantities because too many could cause stomach upset. Cranberries Cranberries are safe for canine consumption, but only in moderation to avoid GI issues. These nutritious berries are naturally acidic and a great fruit choice for dogs with urinary tract infections UTIs. However, never feed your pet store-bought mixtures of raisins and cranberries because raisins are highly toxic to dogs. Your dog would have to consume a significant number of pits in a relatively short time to be affected by the cyanide present in them. Oranges Many dogs like oranges and can safely eat them in moderation. Be sure to remove the peel, seeds and only feed the juicy orange flesh. Peaches Peaches in dogs provide an excellent source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. However, just like all stone fruits, remember to remove the pit before feeding a peach to dogs due to the possible intestinal blockage and traces of cyanide and. Also, avoid feeding dogs processed or canned peaches. These contain added sugars that can cause diarrhea and stomach upset. Pears Pears are full of contain fiber, copper, and immunity-boosting vitamin C, vitamin K, an essential aid to blood clotting. Remove the pear seeds before serving and steer clear of canned pears due to the high sugar content. Mangoes Dogs can eat mango , a tropical fruit packed with nutrients like carotenoids, fiber, and potassium, plus vitamins A, B6, C, and E. Mango pits present a severe choking hazard due to their size, so be sure to remove them, as well, before serving to pets. Pineapples Pineapples are a great source of vitamins C and B6, riboflavin, thiamin, niacin, and folate, making them a wonderful treat for dogs. However, they also contain a significant amount of sugar that can cause digestive issues like diarrhea. Only to serve the fleshy part of the fruit after removing the peel and crown. Coconut Coconut meat and coconut oil can be great for dogs. Both have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can help with many conditions, including skin allergies, inflammatory bowel disease IBD , and arthritis. However, the triglycerides in coconut can be unsuitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs and those prone to pancreatitis. The fruit is also high in calories, so overweight dogs should choose alternative options. Kiwi Also known as Chinese gooseberry, this fruit is brimming with vitamin C, potassium, fiber, plus antioxidants that strengthen the immune system and protect against cancer. Eating kiwi can also contribute to a healthy digestive system and rejuvenate the skin. Cantaloupes Cantaloupes are an excellent source of vitamins A, B6, C, potassium, niacin, folate, and fiber. The seeds are harmless but be sure to remove the outer shell as it can cause digestive issues. Watermelon Watermelons are low in calories and rich in vitamins A, C, B6, as well as minerals like potassium. This juicy fruit is also an excellent way to help your stay pet hydrated during the summer due to its high water content. Be sure to remove the seeds and rind them before feeding watermelon to your pup. What fruits can dogs not eat? While many fruits are safe and even beneficial for our four-legged friends, others should be avoided. The list of fruits not suitable for dogs includes: Lemons and other citrus fruits The fleshy part of citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and grapefruits are quite acidic and can cause stomach upset. The peel of all citrus fruits presents a choking hazard and can also cause GI issues. Symptoms of persin toxicity include diarrhea and vomiting. If your dog accidentally ingests these parts of the avocado fruit, call your vet right away. Grapes and raisins Both grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs. Even if fed in small amounts, they can cause kidney failure in some dogs. If your dog consumes these fruits accidentally, call your vet immediately. Figs Figs are very high in fiber which can cause diarrhea in your dog. If you decide to feed figs, be sure to limit their intake to one or two per week. If your dog exhibits symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, drooling, or abdominal pain after ingesting parts or a fig plant, be sure to take them to the vet. First of all, ingesting whole dates together with the pits can result in bowel obstruction. Second, dates are quite high in sugar and dietary fiber, so consuming more than a few can cause diarrhea. Chances are, if your pup indulges in cherries, they will swallow them whole. Not only do the pits contain traces of cyanide, but they can also cause bowel obstruction. Plums Similar to dates and cherries, the main concern with plums is associated with the ingestion of the pit. Finally, if the pit is crushed, it can release cyanide, which is toxic to dogs. The flesh also contains high amounts of sugar and should be fed in small amounts. Hedgerow berries While some berries, such as strawberries and blueberries, are safe and even beneficial for dogs, others growing in the hedgerows should be avoided. Juniper, holly, elderberries, and rowan are all harmful or poisonous and therefore should not be offered to our canine friends. Dried fruits When fruits are dried, the water gets removed, and sugars get concentrated, making them unsuitable for dogs. In addition, store-bought dried fruits can contain chemical compounds that are potentially toxic to dogs. At best, your dog could suffer from vomiting and diarrhea, and, at worst, dried-fruit poisoning can result in kidney failure. Pro Tip: The value of pet insurance can be a lifesaver in case of food poisoning. When faced with expensive vet bills, dog owners who have insurance are better prepared to provide the best care for their dogs without worrying about how it will affect their finances. If a dog consumes grapefruit it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other issues. So, grapefruit is a NO. Grapes - NO As we mentioned at the beginning of this post, you should never let your dogs have grapes. Grapes are extremely toxic to dogs. This also includes raisins. If your dog eats any grapes, call your vet. Grape seed extract is actually beneficial to your pup, whereas grapes are extremely poisonous. The acidic nature of lemons can cause some seriously upset stomachs, vomiting, and other issues. BUT with that being said, small amounts of lemon juice is found in some treats and foods and is safe for your dog's consumption. BUT with that being said, small amounts of lime juice is found in some treats and foods and is safe for your dog's consumption. This sweet fruit is loved by most pups, just be sure to get rid of the hard pit as it can be a choking hazard and can contain some cyanide which is poisonous for dogs. Another thing to be aware of is the high sugar content in mangoes. Sugar can cause weight gain and potentially diabetes when consumed regularly. So the final word, mangoes are safe for dogs in moderation and be sure to not give your dog access to the pit. So, as long as you just give your pup the fruit and leave the pit out, you are safe to feed your dog nectarines. Orange peels can be difficult for dogs to digest and should be avoided. Some orange benefits are below. High in Vitamin C Potassium Fiber for digestion help Just remember to limit the quantities of oranges for your dog. And like always, monitor your pup when they start eating a new fruit or vegetable. Peach pits are a choking hazard and contain cyanide, which is poisonous for dogs. Also, be sure to steer clear of canned peaches as they typically contain extremely high amounts of sugary syrups. Small amounts of cut-up peaches have some great benefits for dogs. Here are some peach benefits. High in fiber to aid in digestion Rich in Vitamin A Most dogs love the taste of peaches, again, just be sure to remove the pit. Just like other fruits though, be sure to remove the seeds and pit as they contain cyanide which can be poisonous for dogs. Pears can be a great snack because of the following benefits. And a second reminder, remove all seeds and pits before giving your dog any pears. One of the main advantages of pineapple for dogs is bromelain, an enzyme that helps dogs to absorb protein. Pineapples can be a fantastic choice for a sweet treat for your pup. Again, practice moderation and monitor your pup when he or she first try pineapple. Plums are much more difficult to remove the pit and some people get lazy and try to give their dog plums with the pit still intact. This is a big no-no. So, play it safe and just stay away from plums for your pup. Raspberries have loads of benefits for your four-legged friend. Here are some good reasons to feed your dog raspberries again, in moderation. Strawberries - YES Dogs can eat strawberries in moderation. Strawberries contain lots of sugar, so be sure to not overfeed them to your pup. Nothing says summertime quite like strawberries, and most dogs love the taste of this sweet fruit. Some benefits include: Fiber for digestion Vitamin C Teeth whitening properties not like Crest White Strips, but still better than nothing! Go ahead and add strawberries to the list of fruits dogs can eat, just remember to practice moderation. Tomatoes - NO Although the red flesh of a ripe tomato is fine for dogs, the green parts are toxic. With that being said, we recommend playing it safe and just avoiding tomatoes all-together. If you have tomatoes in your garden, we recommend fencing it off or closely supervising your pup around these plants. Some signs of a dog ingesting the green parts of a tomato include: Upset stomach. They are a good source of vitamins A and C, calcium, phosphorus, and fiber. The vitamins are essential for maintaining healthy bones and tissue. They also help to keep teeth clean and freshen their breath. Your Lab will enjoy the sweet taste and the crunchy texture of apples. Remove the seeds as they contain a compound called amygdalin, and this gets broken down into toxic cyanide by food enzymes. However, your Labrador would have to eat many apple seeds to be poisoned. To give you an idea, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a person weighing 70kg would have to eat around 40 apple cores to receive a fatal dose, so a Labrador Retriever weighing 35kg would have to eat 20! Apricots Labradors can eat apricots. They are rich in vitamins A and C and contain potassium, copper, and beta-carotene, which can help fight against cancer. When chewed and digested, these parts produce cyanide and can be harmful if consumed substantially. Your Labrador can enjoy a few small bites now and again. Bananas Labradors can eat bananas. They are high in potassium which can support kidney and heart function. They are also high in vitamins B6 and C, biotin, fiber, magnesium, and copper. They do, however, contain a lot of sugar as they are a high carbohydrate food, so only feed them sparingly. Do not feed the peel as it may be too tough to digest. I like to give my dog a couple of small banana pieces when we hike, giving her a quick energy boost. Bananas can also be served mashed or frozen and then sliced. Blackberries Labradors can eat blackberries. They contain many valuable antioxidants that can prevent or slow down damage to cells and are loaded with vitamins A, B, C, E, and K and fiber. As they are lower in sugar than other fruits, they make an excellent choice for your Lab. I love blackberry picking in the summer, and these sweet juicy fruits are great to share with your Labrador. Frozen blackberries can also be a welcome treat in the warm weather to help cool your dog down. However, some dogs may not like their taste, yet others will enjoy them. Blueberries Labradors can eat blueberries. They are incredibly healthy and nutritious and are an excellent snack for dogs. Blueberries are a superfood due to their antioxidant properties that help prevent cell damage and cancer and reduce inflammation. They are a great source of vitamins C and K and fiber. Additionally, they contain phytochemicals. Scientists believe these compounds can help to fight cancer and heart disease. Monkoodog Coconut Labradors can eat coconut. It helps prevent viruses, reduces inflammation, and can even help to treat yeast infection. The natural oils lead to shinier fur and less dry skin. Make sure to remove the outer shell and husk, as these can be harmful if swallowed. Cranberries Labradors can eat cranberries. They are a superfood containing vitamins C, E, K, manganese, and fiber. They also have anti-inflammatory properties, and this study showed that antioxidant capacity was significantly increased in animal organs after being given cranberry juice. These little fruits help keep cancer at bay and boost the immune system. They have antibacterial properties to help to prevent and control urinary tract infections , as evidenced in this study. They can be given raw, cooked, or dried but avoid cranberry juice containing sugar. Cucumbers Labradors can eat cucumbers. They contain calcium, potassium, copper, magnesium, and biotin and are loaded with vitamins B1, C, and K. Their benefits include improving joints and connective tissue and strengthening bones. Although you are more likely to find cucumbers in the vegetable aisle in the grocery store, they are technically a fruit. They are also ideal for overweight dogs as they are low in calories and boost energy. Dates Labradors can eat dates. They are packed with many nutrients and provide several health benefits. Dates contain fiber, potassium, calcium, vitamins A, B, and C, and disease-fighting antioxidants. Despite the confusion, dates are the fruit of the date palm tree, and they are usually sold dried. The confusion lies in their similar appearance to raisins dried grapes , which are poisonous to dogs. They are, however, high in sugar, so you will need to consider this when feeding to avoid a stomach upset, but they can be good if your Lab needs a quick energy boost during lots of exercise or play. Make sure you remove the pit before feeding to avoid choking or buy ones with the pits already removed! Kiwi Fruit Labradors can eat kiwi fruit. They are a sweet fruit loaded with vitamin C, potassium, iron, and fiber, providing vast nutritional benefits. Their antioxidants help to protect against cancer and strengthen the immune system. It contains a high amount of insoluble fiber, which can cause a stomach upset. Never feed kiwi fruit whole, but cut it into slices. Too many of these fruits can cause a stomach upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. They also provide little or no nutritional benefit for your Labrador. Remember, too, that the digestive system of your Labrador is much more sensitive than humans! If your Labrador does brave it and snaffles a piece, make sure you have removed the peel first. Also, do not feed the pith the white parts or seeds, as all of these parts contain compounds called psoralens. These are toxic to dogs, especially if a large enough quantity is consumed. There are far better choices to choose from. Mango Labradors can eat mango. Slices of mango make a sweet, nutritious treat that contains vitamins A, B6, C, and E. They are also full of fiber. But they do have a lot of sugar, so feed them sparingly, as too much mango can cause vomiting and diarrhea. You should remove the skin as your Lab will find it difficult to digest. The hard pit is a choking hazard, so make sure this is also removed. Serve by cutting it into bite-sized chunks, and you can also feed it frozen. Its high antioxidant properties are good for promoting healthy cell function and reducing the risk of cancer and arthritis. Cantaloupe and honeydew melon are low in calories and high in water content. Small pieces are tasty and refreshing for your Labrador, especially on hot days. Melon does, however, have high sugar content, so only feed in moderation. My dog loves a chunk of melon, especially in the summer. They are good sources of beta-carotene that the body converts to vitamin A, which helps maintain healthy skin, teeth, and bones. The fleshy parts are okay for your Lab to eat but avoid the stone to prevent poisoning, choking, or GI blockage. These stone fruits also contain lots of fiber for healthy digestion and potassium — good for heart and kidney disorders. They are also full of antioxidants to ward off cancer and boost overall health and the immune system. These fruits are pretty sugary, so you must consider that if you wish to feed them to your Lab. Olives Labradors can eat olives. They are perfectly safe for dogs to eat. Nutritionally, they contain many vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and good fats. A couple of plain, unsalted olives can be a healthy snack for your Lab. But here is the caveat. You will need to remove the pits to prevent choking, blockages, or cracked teeth! Dental costs are expensive — and the pits contain toxic compounds. However, your Labrador would have to ingest many of these to suffer severe poisoning. They also contain fiber and potassium. But there are some warnings. Like other citrus fruits, your Labrador may not like the acidic zing of oranges! However, if you find you have a citrus-loving pooch, only give a tiny amount due to their high sugar content and tartness. Too much sugar and citric acid can cause an upset stomach. You must only feed the flesh part of the orange as the leathery peel is hard for your Lab to digest. Also, the seeds and the white pith contain toxic compounds, so avoid these. My dog turns her head away after the slightest sniff. Pears Labradors can eat pears. They are high in potassium, vitamins A, C, and K, and are loaded with fiber. Vitamin K is known for increasing bone density. Pears are believed to reduce the risk of strokes and have anti-cancer properties due to their antioxidants. Pears contain a high amount of sugar so feed sparingly, especially if your Labrador needs to lose a few pounds. However, a few slices can be a healthy and nutritious treat throughout the week. Like apples, the core and seeds will need to be removed first. Persimmons Labradors can eat persimmons. They include a large amount of vitamins A and C. They also contain many other nutrients, such as antioxidants, fiber, potassium, manganese, folic acid, and beta-carotene. The benefits of persimmons are that they can improve overall health and help to combat cancer. They can also reduce inflammation and help with constipation due to their high amount of fiber. Take precautions with the seeds, as these can trigger a stomach upset, so you need to remove them before feeding. It also contains bromelain, an enzyme that provides anti-inflammatory properties. If you wish to try your dog with a small piece, remove the prickly peel and crown first. Pineapple is also quite sugary, so only feed sparingly unless your Lab has quite a taste for this fruit and needs a quick energy boost during a long walk! Frozen chunks of pineapple make an excellent snack in the summer and will help to keep your Lab hydrated. Avoid canned pineapple as it contains lots of added sugar. Raspberries Raspberries are excellent for Labradors to eat as they are low in sugar and calories and contain lots of vitamin C, fiber, folic acid, iron, potassium, manganese, copper, and magnesium. They have anti-inflammatory properties that can help the joints and are perfect for senior dogs or those with mobility issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia. Raspberries contain a tiny amount of xylitol. This natural sweetener can cause death due to its toxicity if consumed in large amounts. To put this into context, a 10kg dog would have to eat at least 32 cups of raspberries to prove fatal. My dog loves raspberries, and she enjoys them frozen when the weather is warm. Strawberries Labradors can eat strawberries. They are full of fiber, vitamins C, B1, B6, and K, folic acid, potassium, iodine, and magnesium. Strawberries are high in antioxidants. They can help slow down the aging process, strengthen the immune system, and help with weight management. Despite their sweetness, they are surprisingly low in sugar and calories. Strawberries are a delicious fruit to eat. My dog adores them all year round. Watermelon Labradors can eat watermelon as they are full of vitamins A, B6, and C and fiber to aid digestion. They also contain potassium, which helps lower blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart disease and strokes. Everyone loves a nice refreshing piece of watermelon in the hot weather, including my dog. Serve by cutting it into cubes. Should Labradors Eat Fruit? Almost everything we eat plays a part in keeping us functioning like a well-oiled machine. But what about our pets? Labradors can eat fruit. They provide additional nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Fruit can be a big health boost for your dog and help reduce the risk of developing many chronic diseases, including cancer. Fruit helps to strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, improve skin, hair, and eyesight, and help with digestion. Fruits are low in calories and fat and make an excellent choice if your Labrador struggles with obesity and needs to lose weight. As pet treats can be high in calories, fruits can provide a healthier alternative. Labradors can eat fruit as dogs have adapted to an omnivorous diet through the domestication process. Dogs also have molars used to grind and crush plant matter, such as fruits and vegetables. In other words, Labs can eat both animal and plant foods and remain perfectly healthy. It has loads of info on nutrition, types of diet, how much to feed, etc. How to Feed Fruit to Your Labrador Here are some guidelines on how to feed fruit to your Labrador: Introduce fruit slowly to avoid any tummy troubles! Wash the fruit first to eliminate any dirt, bacteria, or remaining pesticides. Remove any pits, seeds, or rind. These hazards include poisoning, choking, gastrointestinal blockage, stomach upset, or cracked teeth! Offer small bite-sized pieces or slices to prevent choking. Fruits can be mashed or pureed. Frozen fruits are excellent in the summer and help to keep your dog cool. Be wary of canned fruit as many contain sugary syrup. Avoid fruit juice due to its high sugar content and acidity. You should only feed fruits to your Labrador in moderation. Recommended Portion Sizes Below are the recommended fruit portion sizes when feeding your Lab. Tweet on Twitter When I was a kid, we always gave our apple cores to the dog. He loved them. But can dogs eat apples without any ill effects or or were we taking a risk? Similarly, if your dog likes fruit you may be wondering if you should be feeding him apples, grapes, berries or any of the other common fruits we find in our homes. Can dogs eat apples? Apples contain a number of vitamins including vitamin C. They also contain some dietary fibre, and some minerals, including phosphorus and calcium Most experts agree that the flesh of the apple is safe for dogs to eat. And many recommend giving dogs apple slices as a healthy snack. You can also freeze apple slices or pulp to give dogs a refreshing treat in hot weather or use apples in recipes for baked dog treats. Can dogs eat apples whole? Or the cores specifically? In retrospect the apple cores I used to give to our Golden Retriever when I was a child were probably not such a good idea. Apple seeds actually contain a compound that is toxic. And although a large dog would probably need to eat quite a few of them to do himself any serious harm, apple seeds are not good for dogs. There is also the concern that an apple core is a potential choking hazard—especially in smaller breeds So it may be better to put your apple core in the trash or better yet in your compost pile, than feed it to your dog. Can dogs eat apples — skin and peel? However, the skin can irritate the stomach of some dogs and trigger vomiting. So if your dog is relaxing on your favorite carpet, you might want to bear that in mind! It is also worth remembering that apples contain a lot of natural sugars, which dogs do not need to eat at all. These can harm their teeth if consumed in excess. So the question is not just can dogs eat apples, but should they! Moderation, when giving this sweet treat, is definitely a good idea. Can dogs eat grapes? The second fruit on our list is a very different story. Eating grapes can cause kidney failure in dogs. One study suggests as little as .This is made even more complicated because, not all dogs will be visibly affected. The mechanism by which grapes poison dogs is still being researched. Still it is not known why some dogs may be fatally poisoned by only a small quantity of grapes, while others can eat quite a few without any ill effects. This is a common occurrence when we discuss foods that are potentially toxic to dogs. But it is never worth the risk to your dog, as levels of toxicity cannot be gauged off-hand. Can dogs eat raisins? Raisins are a type of dehydrated grape and the same rules apply. Raisins can be very attractive to dogs because the sugar in them is so concentrated but they are equally as dangerous if not more so. Special precautions should be taken when giving your dog one of the many baked products made for humans that may contain raisins. Ensure you are certain of the ingredients in baked products before you share them with your dog. What to do if your dog eats grapes or raisins Dogs affected by grapes may vomit and become very thirsty. If your dog accidentally ingests grapes, telephone your vet straight away and ask for advice. If your dog has not already begun vomiting, your vet may want you to induce vomiting before the dog is brought into the office Do not induce vomiting without first checking with a veterinary health professional. Can dogs eat oranges? Oranges can be consumed by most dogs in small quantities without any ill effects. Large amounts may give your dog diarrhea. Again, these fruits are high in sugar so moderation is key. Can dogs eat lemons Lemons are citrus fruits like oranges and the same rules apply. Can dogs eat peaches and plums? The flesh of fruit with pits or stones in the center is another tasty favorite of some dogs. Many wild carnivores love these fleshy fruits especially when they are over-ripe. However, while these fruits are a rich source of vitamins, you should never give your dog the whole fruit or the pits of plums or peaches. Not only are they toxic, they could choke your dog or cause an intestinal blockage. Can dogs eat bananas? Bananas are deliciously sweet and many animals love them. Dogs are no exception. Dogs can eat bananas without issue, but remember that the sweet taste is a reminder of how sugary they are. Can dogs have blueberries? Blueberries are safe for dogs to eat either fresh or frozen. They are high in antioxidants which help to fight free radicals. Free radicals are substances that cause damage to cells and may be implicated in the development of cancer. This means that blueberries are often recommended as a treat for dogs of all breeds. Blueberries should also be considered for very active dogs or members of the working class breeds of dogs. This is because the oxidative muscle damage caused by these free radicals is most intense during high activity and exercise. Can dogs eat cranberries? Cranberries have long been associated with bladder health in humans. This may help reduce the occurrence of urinary tract infections. With plenty of fruity alternatives, giving cranberries a miss is probably a good idea Can dogs eat pears? Pears are another great treat for fruit-loving pooch! They are chock full of Vitamins C and A, and are a healthy source of dietary fiber. Pear seeds are toxic and can cause harm in large quantities, and the core does pose a choking hazard. Can dogs eat tomatoes? Yes, tomatoes are actually fruit, and they are safe for dog consumption —when ripe. The stems, leaves and green fruit of a tomato plant contain high amounts of a substance called tomatine that could be harmful in large quantities. This concentration is far lower in ripe fruits, and as such can be fed to your dog in moderate quantities. But remember tomatoes do have a high acid content and should not be fed to dogs with sensitive stomachs or a history of digestive concerns. When is fruit good for dogs? If you are struggling to get a thin, elderly dog to eat then supplementing with their favorite fruit may be a good incentive. Also, if you are trying to give a particularly savvy pup medication, hiding it in fruit may be a good trick to keep in your arsenal. In either case just be sure not to give the dog so much that it upsets his stomach. Fruit can also be a good way of getting nutrients into a dog on special low fat diet. Keep in mind though, that while we tend to think of low-fat foods like apples as being healthy for most healthy dogs, certain foods that are high in sugar are not a necessary or even valuable part of their diet. And can contribute to obesity. If you want to put weight on a thin dog, feeding his usual food more frequently will usually enable you to increase overall quantities without upsetting his tum with added dietary variety. Remember when feeding your dog fruit: Wash all fruit before feeding it to your dog Remove all flesh from cores, pits and stones Sharing prepared foods with your pet should be done at a minimum however if you choose to do so ensure there are no hidden, ingredients that may be toxic to your pup Even if a fruit is deemed safe for your dog, test with a small piece and monitor your dog for any sensitivities Peel waxy fruits as the skin may cause stomach irritation Never give your dog whole fruit! Summary — What fruits can dogs eat? Fruit is not an essential part of any dogs diet. In moderation it is fine to give your dog the occasional slice of apple, pear, peach, ripe tomatoes or plum. You can also use the flesh of these fruits when baking your favorite home cooked dog biscuits. You can give your dog a piece of banana or a slice of orange or lemon if he enjoys them. And finally, before you leap for the fruit bowl, remember that fruit is high in sugar and should only be fed as an occasional treat, not in large quantities. How about your dog? Does your dog have a favorite fruity snack? Tell us about him in the comments below! Eubig, Melinda S. Brady, Sharon M. Khan, Elisa M. Mazzaferro, Carla M.

Call Today! We breed from only the best quality bloodlines in the world adhering to the strict German SV standard. Our dogs are health tested hips, elbows, back and DM and are titled from both showline and working lines, raised in the house and already started before they go home! What else separates us from other Michigan German Shepherd Breeders? Von Buchmann German Shepherds, aka Michigan German Shepherds, is not a kennel but we are a home where our handful of dogs, bred to the strict German standard, stay inside with us and are a part of our family. They are family members to us. We stay small so every dog can get the attention and time they deserve, and our puppies can be raised in a family situation. Our puppies are not only born in the house, but they stay in the house. Our German Shepherd puppies go from our whelping box right to crate training and house breaking introduction. We get several comments from families they are very easy to finish housetraining. Phoenix von Buchmann IGP3 ang a normal hips and elbows dm clear, queen of the house and grandma to all of our showline babies Preserving the breed is at the utmost importance to us so our dogs are bred to uphold German SV standards. We breed to the German SV standard to ensure we have the most stable and healthy dogs for your family. I, Peggy Buchman, grew up with German Shepherd dogs and have loved them my entire life. My daughter started training German Shepherd Puppies and dogs in IGP, service work, and pet training and it has brought back all of my favorite memories of them. What a wonderful experience this has been, breeding and raising German Shepherd puppies. Watching the development of them as they grow with their new families, feedback has been amazing. Many families have come back for a second and third German Shepherd Puppy. We have dogs in sport homes, service homes, and mostly family companion homes where comes our most important focus, temperament! Since we raise our own dogs and keep from our own stock we have a great understanding what is behind your puppy and his or her pedigree. Raising and training our own dogs to the German standard takes a lot of commitment, time, expense, and is never easy. Please scroll down and slide left to scroll through our many Testimonials. We are hands on in all aspects of our German Shepherds. Training and Handling our own dogs for Titling, Showing and Breed Surveys Even down time is exciting with our acreage to take leisurely runs, even going on family travels Up North "I take pride in the German Shepherds I am producing here at von Buchmann German Shepherds" - Peggy Contact Us Today Real Testimonials Mia is such a little love at about 40 pounds now with beautiful markings! She has been easy to train since she is so food motivated. She has a great personality and temperament. We just love her so much and thank you for a great bloodline!! Susan S. He is an amazingly sweet, loving, playful and handsome little guy. Donnie D. Hank is doing great! His color is fantastic and his listening skills are superb!!! He very much enjoys our outings and meeting new people still!! And does very well with it! Simon E. My puppy, which I name Kimber has been nothing short of amazing. She is a very beautiful GSD, healthy, and very willing to learn new things. I have actually train Kimber to be a diabetic alert service dog for myself, which she picked up very well and is happy to work. Peggy was more than willing to help evaluate which puppy of the litter would have the best attitude for my life being around several young children. We interviewed other breeders but you could immediately tell that Peggy truly cared about her dogs and took care to ensure we would get a puppy that was a good fit for us. She answered all of our questions and continued to do so long after the actual adoption. Our dog has been a wonderful addition to our family and our next German Shepherd will be from Von Buchmann! High quality German Shepherds and a breeder who cares, you really can ask for more. Denise B. We purchased our first puppy from Von Buchmann German Shepherds in .Since then, we have been back to get two more puppies. Peggy is a very knowledgeable breeder and her dogs are beautiful and well trained with great temperaments. We are very pleased with Von Buchmann German Shepherds. April R. Besides his physical beauty, he has a protective yet loving temperament, listens and responds to all commands, was well socialized and mannered, and only barks when alerting me to perceived danger. You will not be disappointed. Susan H. We bought our first German Shepherd from this breeder and have been over the moon impressed with how this pup fits perfectly in to our family. Peggy did a great job of recommending the perfect puppy based on drive and temperament for our family with three young boys. Our pup is currently 11mo old and such a joy. Ever the professional, Peggy answered all of my possibly annoying first time dog owner questions with care and grace. She has been a resource for us months after our purchase and I would not hesitate to contact her with questions in the future. I highly recommend this breeder without reservation. Kelli S. Their temperament, physique, coats and general health are outstanding. Jodi H. I give Von Buchmann German Shepherds a 5 star! I have a beautiful 18 month girl from Phoenix. Peggy Buchmann matched the perfect pup with what our family wanted in a Shepherd. Our pup was used to a household environment, family life, and well socialized for her age when we got her. The follow up with Peggy has been amazing. She is quick to answer questions and offer support and suggestions. Peggy takes her breeding seriously and strives for great temperment, good health, and beauty with her pups. Tammy S. Very knowledgeable, caring and responsible breeder that is always responsive to concerns or questions! Our second male from her is now 7mos and is incredible! Mark M. We have had our beautiful Luca with us for nearly 10 years. We will not hesitate to look to Von Buchmann for our next family member. Thank you for such excellence. Kristen R. For the complete list please see our breeders info page page. However, the price may be higher depending on the breeder and the pedigree of the dog. It is important to do your research to find a reputable breeder who cares about the welfare of their puppies. When you purchase a German Shepherd puppy, you are making a commitment to care for the dog for its entire lifetime. These dogs can live for up to 14 years, so it is important to be prepared for the financial responsibility that comes with owning a pet. If you are looking for a loyal and intelligent companion, a German Shepherd may be the perfect breed of dog for you. Reputable breeders will screen potential buyers and will only sell their puppies to responsible homes. This can give you valuable insight into the temperament, intelligence, and health of the pup. The breeder should also be willing to offer a guarantee on the health of the puppy. Puppies should be well socialized and should have received their shots and been dewormed. Finding a reputable German Shepherd breeder in Michigan can be challenging, but it is worth it to find a healthy and well-socialized pup. What is The German Shepherd Personality? The German Shepherd personality can vary from dog to dog. However, they are often loyal and intelligent. They can be trained to perform a variety of tasks and are known for their protective nature. These dogs make excellent companions and can be a valuable member of the family. Ask to see the location where the puppies are kept, and ask to visit with them. This is very important. Before purchasing a German Shepherd in Michigan, you should visit the breeder in person. This can give you valuable insight into whether or not they are responsible. It is important to ensure that the dogs are well cared for and that the puppies are healthy. You should also be able to get a feel for whether or not the breeder is trustworthy. The personality traits associated with any dog are in their genetics and in their upbringing which means that if one parent has characteristics that you would like to avoid i. This also means that you should try to meet all of the parents. If there is a temperament problem with a dog, it is always possible for it to be passed on even if the breeder does not believe so. Ask the breeder for references from previous buyers and contact them. Find out if the puppies were healthy if they were well socialized, and if the breeder was helpful and knowledgeable. References will also tell you whether or not the breeder is willing to work with potential buyers and answer questions. Of course, there are caveats — it is possible for a breeder to give false references — but this is rare. How to Find A Reputable German Shepherd Breeder in Michigan: Ask for Photos If a breeder has several litters available at different times, ask if you can see pictures of their dogs while they are still young or even puppies. If they refuse, consider this a red flag and avoid them. The best German Shepherd breeders will want to share this part of their lives with potential clients; after all, these are the dogs that will be part of When looking for a German Shepherd puppy, it is important to visit your Michigan German Shepherd breeder in person. This will allow you to see how the puppies are being raised and ensure that they are healthy Ask Your Michigan German Shepherd Breeder if You Can Meet Past Customers If the breeder is reputable, they will have no problem with you contacting some of their past customers. Ask them about the quality of the puppies, whether or not they were healthy and if the breeder was helpful. References are one of the best ways to determine if a breeder is reputable; unfortunately, not all breeders have good references. Meeting past customers will tell you even more about whether or not your German Shepherd breeder in Michigan is reputable. This way your puppy can get on a preventive program from day one. You should also ask if they use Heartguard and Frontline Plus for fleas and worms. A good breeder will not hesitate to provide you with this information. The best thing about being proactive is that it prevents problems down the road. Even more important than just vaccines is having had all shots current before going home. Some of these diseases are deadly, so ask your breeder to show you the Pedigree for current health testing. How can you avoid getting caught up in such an unfortunate situation? They appear frightened and shy away from human touch. If you do encounter an unethical breeder, please contact the proper authorities. Some unethical dog breeders will no doubt try to sell you a puppy with serious health problems. Also, ask if your new puppy has received his first vaccinations and if so, what brand of vaccine was used. The best way to find a reputable and honest breeder is by word-of-mouth or through referrals from friends, family members, your veterinarian or other dog breeders. You can also check the web pages of national breed clubs for a list of inspected and approved German Shepherd Dog Breeders in Michigan. House-training can be a long process and you will probably need to invest in some training aids, which you can find at your local pet store or online retailer. Training aids such as dog piddle pads, potty bells and indoor grass mats can help speed up the house training process. Potty training takes patience, consistency and lots of love. Here are some basic potty training tips: 1 Take your puppy outside to his bathroom area after eating or waking up from a nap. Make sure you watch him until he has finished the business then praise him for doing it correctly. Try not to play with your dog during this time because it can distract them from their job. Instead, gently place your pup on the newspaper so that he can see what he has done, then praise and encourage him while taking them outside to finish their business. Your puppy or dog will still be able to smell the scent of his own urine and it might entice him to go potty inside again. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. We uphold a strong belief that German Shepherds are the most versatile breed of dogs. As one of the highest quality German Shepherd kennels in Michigan , our standards for breeding are essential for maintaining the superiority of our bloodlines, which are a result of careful consideration and research. Each Vom Dinaburg German Shepherd puppy receives the love and tenderness of a family home, with the socialization needed for superior attitude, perfection in temperament, ease of trainability, and a stellar personality. This combined with their large bone, incredible black and red color, beautiful structure and breed type makes them the highest quality of German Shepherd. We believe these components are essential for dogs — whether owned as family companions, or used in more complex training. Our dogs often used for military or police training, Search and Rescue, Guide dogs, or Therapy dogs, or devoted and affectionate family pets. Vom Dinaburg German Shepherds are excellent companions. Our dogs are bred with SV standards as one of the most important criteria. When you own a Vom Dinaburg shepherd, you have one of the highest bloodlines in the United States. Vom Dinaburg Shepherds are able to complement their owners; they enjoy recreation, sports, and are constantly striving to further develop their skills for shows, protection, or Schutzhund competitions. Our puppies come from established bloodlines with a long history of positive people pleasing personalities, making them an essential aspect of any home. A Vom Dinaburg shepherd will quickly assume a primary spot in your home and in your heart. We provide dog training up to your specifications and needs. Private lessons are available in your house or in ours. We help with solving any behavioral problems in any breed of dogs. Our training methods are based mostly on positive reinforcement. Good handling in the show ring is very important and may result in a much higher placing of your German Shepherd Dog. Show handeling and conditioning are available upon request by experienced handlers. Helping with showing in the breed surveys. We offer world-class imported German Shepherd puppies for sale Please feel free to call us with any questions you might have regarding purchasing new pup or a young adult, Stud Service, and Dog Training. Please visit soon, as we have new information updates frequently. Our German Shepherd Kennels are located in Southwest Michigan and we offer to ship nationwide, and delivery services. We created this German Shepherd Kennel for the serious German Shepherd enthusiast who is committed to maintaining these world-class pedigrees, and working heritage set forth over a century ago carried on through the Verein Fur Deutche Schaeferhunde Club. Our commitment is only matched by our love for the breed and its extraordinary capabilities. In Germany, Purebred German Shepherd Breeders would be required to show their dogs at the German Sieger Shows to obtain breeding titles, which would continue to improve the breed. VA4 Taifun vom St. DM stands for Degenerative Myelopathy. There has only been a few stud dogs in the history of the breed that have ever produced a vise world sieger and Uran is one of them. Kolenda Kennels is a German Shepherd Breeder that is a personalized kennel and dedicated to improving the breed, located at th Ave Dorr, Michigan , located in Grand Rapids Michigan area. When buying a puppy it is a good ideal to visit the kennel. You should be able to interact with their dogs, especially the mom and dad of the puppy you are considering. This is the only way to check the temperament of their breeding dogs. By visiting the kennel you can inspect the cleanliness of the facility, and how the puppies are being taken care of. You can interact with the puppies and also, check the temperament of the puppies themselves and over all health. By visiting the kennel you will also be able to see the over all looks and structure of the breeding dogs. By doing these things this would help improve the German Shepherd Breed itself. It would make it difficult to breed and sell inferior puppies, which would help keep the breed from deteriorating. When my wife and I decided to make being German Shepherd Dog Breeders our full-time career we decided to put together a German Shepherd Kennel that is dedicated to breeding the best Imported German Shepherds. This way, we could offer this beautiful, outstanding tempered dog to the public.

Redness Bad smell or discharge Take them to the vet before cleaning. Doing any cleaning at this point can cause further irritation and possibly make it harder for your vet to diagnose. Also, if you see black or brown ear wax that looks like coffee grounds, your dog might have microscopic ear mites which also prompts a visit to the vet. There are a few things to look out for that signal a possible ear infection : If your dog repeatedly scratches at or rubs their ear Any discharge from the ear Any growths or swelling in or around the ear Any smell coming from the ear Soreness or redness inside the ear Sensitivity to touch or pain around the ears Infection is more of a risk among dogs who swim or bathe regularly, particularly for breeds with long and floppy ears. This makes a Labrador particularly susceptible so it is important to keep a close eye on their ears. Simple answer? This will keep their ears optimally clean, healthy and infection free, and give you the chance to spot any trouble early to address it or get professional help if needed. This will also cause moisture to collect around the ears. Some dogs will grow hair out of their ear canals, but this is not always the case. Some experts say that you can pluck this hair while others suggest avoiding it. In other situations, they may give you instructions on how to remove it yourself or suggest you bring your furry friend to them to have it removed regularly. You can actually use your index finger and thumb to remove some of the excess hair along the ear flap or inside the ear. Only pull out small amounts each time — as few hairs as possible to avoid any pain — and make sure you pull it in the direction of the hair growth. Sometimes spraying medicated ear powder will help dry out wax and make this process easier. So leave this unless under direction from a vet. If it does need removing, you follow the same process to remove the hair using tweezers or hemostats. But make sure to be shown how by your vet or a pro groomer before ever attempting this on your own. Make sure you select a safe cleaning solution that is designed to be used in canine ears without causing damage. Selecting a cheap solution can be uncomfortable for your furry friend or expose them to toxic materials. You will also want to have cotton balls or a similar item on hand. An alternative is to wrap some gauze around your finger. Never use something harder or rougher than gauze or cotton balls as this can hurt the inner ear or cause irritation. Depending on your preference, you may also want to get some disposable gloves to wear while cleaning the ears. If you prefer, you can also just wash your hands very well before and after grooming the ears. If your pooch has a lot of hair inside the ear but not in the canal , you want to get tweezers to help you remove this hair. You can also use hemostats, which are similar to long tweezers and have room for you to easily hold them with your fingers. Therefore we have provided the best we could find below. You can read through this article then come back and watch this video — or vice versa — But we recommend you do both to get the most complete advice. With a little practice you should find the whole process easy in no time. How to Hold Your Dog Although there are various ways to hold your dog, many people find it easiest to place them on a table and have them lay down on their stomach or side. You can then wrap your arm around them to hold them in place during the cleaning. If your dog struggles and squirms, you may need to enlist the help of another person to help restrain them during the procedure. Maybe Train Your Dog to Accept Handling The majority of dogs will not enjoy having their ears touched, so you have to work with them to get used to having their ears handled from a young age if you can. This can be as simple or difficult as you make it, but the main idea is to start by gently touching your pet while still a puppy and slowly get them used to this before moving onto cleaning the ears. For more information about this process, you can look at this article on teaching your pup to accept handling. Instead, make an appointment with your vet so they can give your pup a check-up and wait to clean the ears until the vet says it is safe. During your inspection you should check for excess hair. Any matting, overgrown or heavy hair either around the ear opening or in the ear canal limits the flow of air into and around the ear, creating a stale environment for bacteria and yeast to grow in, as well as allowing wax and debris to collect. All of these issues can lead to infection so you want to clear away excess hair. Note though as we previously stated, for hair internal to the canal, you must seek the advice of a vet before attempting removing it yourself. It may be OK to leave it and you do not want to do any damage. Is the Inner Ear Dirty? If it is, dampen a cotton ball using canine ear cleaning solution and use this to clean the ears. Keep in mind that the inner ear is especially delicate so you should ideally have your vet show you the proper way to clean this area. Alternatively, you can watch a video, like the one mentioned above. Start Inside and Work Out When cleaning, start just inside the ear and slowly work your way outside. Start with a clean cotton ball dipped in the cleaning solution and wipe from just outside the ear canal to the outer flap of the ear, the area you can easily see. Once the 30 seconds are up, let your pooch shake their head, then use the gauze or cotton ball to remove the cleaner, wiping from the inside to the outside edge of the ear flap. You can repeat this process if necessary. You also want to avoid cleaning the ear deeply or frequently as either action will lead to irritation. Because movement can cause the Q-tip to accidentally enter the ear, most vets discourage using them because putting objects too far into the ear can push debris and wax further inside or rupture the eardrum. Cotton balls and gauze will be more effective anyway. Instead, make an appointment with your vet. Just remember to never insert anything into their ears and bring them to the vet if you have any doubts. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Wash is good, but removing the junk that shaking wont is vital to your dogs hearing. You advise is unsound. It is best to get puppies accustomed to having their ears handled from early on. Be patient with training an older dog who is afraid of the ear cleaning process. Create and maintain an ear grooming schedule to maintain ear health. Large open ear canals not only vastly improved their hearing capabilities, acting like the perfect antennae, but also aided them in staying clean and healthy as well. Labradors have been selectively bred with a different structure to their ears than their pointy-eared ancestors, and the ear canal is covered with a soft furry flap. While these lovely soft ear flaps give our floppy eared dogs a distinctive look that we find so endearing, floppy ears are less practical from a health perspective. Plus, that soft inner ear fuzz that is so efficient at keeping out small debris is equally as efficient at trapping ear wax which creates a sticky trap for bits of gunk, hair and parasites. It also traps dirt, ear wax and all sorts of daily grime deep in the ear canal and inner ear. And is one of the reasons that Labrador ear problems are sadly fairly common. As owners, learning how to clean dogs ears will help keep our dogs comfortable and healthy. Dogs with Hairy Ear Canals? Another cause of ear trouble in some Labs is an excess of hair inside the ear canal. Whilst some hair is useful for stopping debris moving down the ear canal, excess hair can cause it to block more quickly and make it harder for wax to shift. The best thing to do is to show your vet and ask for their advice on whether any action needs to be taken in this respect. Small Ear Canals Get Mucky! Finally, some Labradors have small ear canals relative to the size of their head. Again, this makes it more likely that wax will become lodged and become a breeding ground for bacteria. Impacted wax may also create a host of issues from pain to hearing difficulties. So how will you know whether an ear cleaning session is in order? You can tell by doing simple checks on a regular basis. If you notice the ear appears to have a bit of extra dirty build up or the wax is looking thicker or darker then it is time for a cleaning. The ear should still be a healthy, pale pink with no unpleasant odor or broken skin. Be sure to note the difference between a dirty ear and a medically unwell ear. This will ensure you keep on top of his ear health and make sure you catch or prevent any problems early on. Make sure your Labrador is standing, sitting or lying down comfortably. Begin by calmly stroking his head. You can also give him a piece of kibble or a treat to distract him. Lift the flap of his ear and look into the ear canal. It should also be fairly free from ear wax, debris, discharge or blood although it may have a few flecks of ear wax dotted around the outer ear. Your dog should not react as though in pain, and they should be comfortable with you handling the ear flap. Your Dog Ear Cleaning Kit. Either with water, in what is often referred to as the natural method of cleaning, or using specially designed ear cleaning chemicals. If your Labrador is still a puppy pop him into your lap. If he is fully grown try and encourage him to lay down next to you with his head in your lap. Remain calm, petting and reaffirming your dog. Use treats if necessary. A second set of hands may be useful for less confident dogs. Soak the cotton wool in warm water. Test the temperature of the water. Ensure if it only warm NOT hot! Squeeze out the excess water to leave the cotton damp not sopping wet. Remove any visible dirt and waxy buildup. Begin close to the ear canal and continue outwards towards the outer rim of the underside of the ear flap Each time you wipe use a new piece of cotton wool, so that you are not reintroducing any removed dirt and debris back into the ear with subsequent wipes. Only wipe around the external parts of the ear, coming near to but not entering the opening of the ear canal. Do not introduce water or cotton wool into the ear canal. If your dog appears happy and settled you can repeat this right away with the other ear. If he is becoming restless or stressed, then wait until they have settled down before continuing with the other ear. This usually comes in a tube fitted with a pointed nozzle, so that the liquid is directed into the ear canal. You can also buy proprietary ear cleaning solutions online. We like Zymox but always check with your vet before using this or any other commercial ear cleaner on your dog. Always follow the instructions given by your vet or on the package carefully. This will often be along the lines of placing the tube at the entrance to the ear canal, squirting the requisite volume of solution directly into the ear and then massaging the ear and the area beneath it with the ear flap closed. You will hear a squelching sound as the solution cleans the inner ear and while the ear will become damp there should not be a lot of solution leaking out of the ear if the correct amount is used. Use cotton swabs to wipe out any excess cleaning solution wiping from the inside to outside of the ear flap. You can help your Labrador to find the process less frustrating by giving him a high value treat immediately after you have massaged the solution into his ear. This will help them associate the less than pleasant ear cleaning with the much more enjoyable reward of a yummy treat. This is perfectly normal. Still it is probably best to carry out the cleaning process in a relatively empty, well contained space away from any fragile items—a bathroom is often preferred. You may be able to distract your dog afterwards with a game or a brisk walk. Some dogs do not like having their ears cleaned. This can be an issue for some dogs with general cleaning, even more so for dogs with recurring inner ear problems who need routine inner ear cleanings. The best thing you can do is to get your dog used to being handled and having their ears cleaned from a young age. If you are bringing home a new puppy, then every few days when he is sitting on your lap calmly gently stroke around his ears, lifting the flaps and doing a visual check. When he responds by staying calm and still give him a small piece of kibble as a reward. This will help him to get used to letting you inspect the ear. And see it as a rewarding experience when he shows the desired behavior. When you are happy with these checks, you can do the same but with the occasional gentle wipe of the ear using a damp cotton wool pad. Just remember to reward him for being still, disinterested and calm, and to ignore him when he gets excited. Tips for Adult Dogs If your dog is older and has developed a distaste to having his ears checked or cleaned you can combat this but at a very slow, patient pace. The best place to start is by training a reliable sit command. Make sure your dog will happily sit while you are both on the same level. And while you have your hands on a a body part or area in which he is comfortable. Gradually over the course of several training sessions move your hands closer to his head and ears. Only go as far as your dog is comfortable. And every time he remains relaxed give him a piece of kibble to reward him. Begin repeating the process with a cotton wool pad or the ear cleaner in your hand. If he is nervous of these items you will need to begin training by simply rewarding him for staying calm when you hold them in the same room as him. Make sure you have lots of high value rewards ready. Stay calm and confident in your handling of him. If you have a friend that your Lab knows well and trusts, then you may find it easier to carry out the final stage with them treat-streaming. Ask them to give your dog a continuous row of small treats while you do the cleaning. Q: What should I do if my dog scratches his ears? Labradors can have too much hair inside their ear canals, which can cause blockages and make it hard for wax to come out. You could get even more problems if you cut this hair. The small ear canals of some Labradors make the wax more likely to get stuck and cause health problems. The first thing you need to do is get some supplies. Never use human ear cleaners on dogs. They can be too harsh and irritate. Special Ear Cleaning Solution Whenever your vet gives you an internal ear cleaning solution, follow the instructions carefully and wipe out any excess cleaning solution from the inside to the outside of the ear canal. Nothing to worry about. They can check for infections and clean out his ears properly. New puppy? Call your dog and stroke around his ears whenever your Lab responds, and give him a small piece of kibble. When your dog is older, you should be able to wipe his ears with no problem. If your dog is resistant to cleaning his ears, try not to fight him on it. Training a reliable sit command can help if your dog hates having his ears cleaned or checked as he ages. Move your hands closer to his head and ears, rewarding him for staying calm. Ear infection in a dog might look like a sticky discharge, redness, inflammation, and rubbing of the ear on surfaces. If your dog is trying to shake his head a lot, has lost his balance, or is walking in circles, he may also have an ear infection. If you think your dog might have an ear infection, take him to the vet for a check-up and treatment. Never try to clean out an infected ear yourself. What Are Ear Mites? An ear mite is a tiny parasite that feeds off shed skin cells, ear wax, and oils. Most Labradors are healthy, but their ears can be a problem. The most common sign that your dog has ear mites is shaking its head or scratching its ears. If you think your dog has ear mites, take him to the vet for treatment. Conclusion Labradors are prone to poor ear health, so watch out. A: The best way to prevent your dog from getting an ear infection is to keep his ears clean. Wipe them out with a cotton swab and warm water, or use a specially formulated canine ear cleaner. Q: What should I do if I think my dog has an ear infection? A: If you think your dog might have an ear infection, take him to the vet for a check-up and treatment. Q: What are ear mites? A: Ear mites are tiny parasites that feed off shed skin cells, ear wax, and oils. A: In some cases, ear infections can be treated without antibiotics. However, if the infection is severe, your dog may need to be seen by a veterinarian and might require antibiotics. Q: What are the most common signs that my dog has an ear infection? A: The most common sign that your dog has an ear infection is shaking, scratching, or rubbing his ears. If you think your dog has an ear infection, take him to the vet for a check-up and treatment. A: If your dog scratches his ears a lot, it could indicate an ear infection. Take him to the vet for a check-up and treatment. With long and floppy ears, dogs are frequently the victims of various ear infections. In order to avoid chronic infections of ears, it is the best to make routine ear cleaning an important part of your dog-care schedule. There can be various symptoms of ear infection in your dog. Remember that most canines do not enjoy having their ears cleaned that means spills are unavoidable. The best ear cleaning tools are some cotton balls and a good pair of hemostats. Hemostats can be availed at pharmacies, drug stores, or from your vet. You can also purchase an ear cleaning solution specifically created for the dogs, or you can mix one up at home. If you want to make ear cleaning solution at home, then you can use 1 part white vinegar to 1 part of water. Another ear cleaning solution for dog that you can mix at home is 1 part hydrogen peroxide to 1 part water. You should never use alcohol to clean the ears of your dog because alcohol can dry out the sensitive skin inside the ears of dog and cause allergic reactions. Simple Techniques of Ear Cleaning You can start ear cleaning of your dog with a good belly rub and soothing words. It will relax your canine companion and let him know that ear cleaning times are not a bad experience. Place a small amount of the ear cleaning solution in the ears of your dog, and then gently massage the base of the ears. At this point your canine companion will want to do a head shake. Then, give your pooch a good shake which will help loosen debris inside his ear. After this, lock down a cotton ball in the hemostat and softly use it to wipe out the inside of the ears. Repeat it as often as needed, working from the inside out with a fresh cotton ball, until no more wax is seen on the cotton ball. You should finish up the session of ear cleaning with a treat and extra words of encouragement to help soothe the nerves of your canine companion. Once in a week ear cleaning is sufficient to help maintain clean and healthy ears of your dog. About Swati Swati takes pride of being a dog lover. Her current passions include blogging, writing and collecting dog pictures of various breeds. She is an active member of stray dog care society. More like this.

Bernedoodles are a carefully-bred combination of Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles. Bernese Mountain Dogs, originating from Switzerland, were first used for driving cattle and to protect farmyards. They are robust and powerful, renowned for their ability to pull many times their own weight. This history creates the image of a hardy, strong worker, yet their owners know them best for their placid, sweet nature. They are also large dogs known for shedding lots of hair. The Poodle is a small dog that is non-shedding, but is known for being more high-strung. They are known and loved for their intelligence and prancing nature. When we cross-breed, the result is generally an intelligent puppy who is a gentle, sociable, enthusiastic companion. They are gentle with babies and toddlers, yet energetic enough to play in the yard with teenagers. They are also sensitive to the elderly, which makes this dog perfect for any family! The Mini Bernedoodle is a very dedicated dog, and does not like being left alone for long periods of time. This makes this dog well-suited for homes with plenty of activity, or for those who have someone in the house most of the day. They are generally very tolerant of other pets. With the energy they have, this dog will be perfect for your hiking or jogging companion. A good rule is to exercise them 5 minutes for every month of their age. For example, a 4 month old puppy will be able to take a 20 minute walk without tiring him out. We work hard to socialize and train our puppies to be well-mannered and obedient. In spite of this, they may still have some behaviour issues if you do not continue training. They will do best with continued guidance and direction. It is our pleasure to present to you the Mini Bernedoodle! We hope you adopt one today! You've come to the right place. Here, at Premier Pups, our Mini Bernedoodles are happy, healthy, and ready to embark on a life-long journey with their new families. These puppies are raised with love and cared for by the best in the business. We align ourselves only with the best breeders that meet our high standards. All our Mini Bernedoodles come with a year health guarantee that backs up our Premier Promise. Nationwide delivery is available for all out-of-state customers looking to adopt a Mini Bernedoodle. The beautiful Mini Bernedoodles are a blend of fluffy looks and darling personalities. They can be small or medium depending on their generation, but regardless of their size, they are simply adorable. Mini Bernedoodles are designed to be loyal and loving companions for equally loving owners. They thrive in a setting where attention and fun are plentiful. We partner with the best dog breeders in the nation to offer you healthy, happy Mini Bernedoodle puppies. Find your dream Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mix puppy today! A few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Frankfort Kentucky and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups! 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 Mini Bernedoodle 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 Mini Bernedoodle 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 Mini Bernedoodle puppy is safely transported to your doorstep by a professional who understands the unique needs of pet travel. Begin your search for the perfect Mini Bernedoodle puppy today on TrustedPuppies.

Then look no further! They are a great pet for experienced dog owners. Did you know? They are actually a relatively new breed — the first German Shepherd was born in .Daily exercise is crucial for this breed both mental and physical to help prevent boredom. They have a long history of their intelligence being utilised such as: Guide Dogs Being the first breed to train as guide dogs for the visually impaired. Multiple roles during WW1 and WW2 They were tasked as rescue dogs, personal guards, message deliverers and were looked at to warn soldiers of hidden traps or hazards. Some were even taught to parachute from an aircraft! There was even a sport which was created specifically for this breed. In fact, very few breeds even have the capability to participate. Thanks in part to Hollywood fame this breed has had, most people associate the breed with the typical dark or tan and black colour. However, there are actually 11 recognised colours, including black and red, blue, and sable! This colourful coat needs a lot of grooming and an owner with a great vacuum. This double coat helps the breed endure all sorts of elements, but means you need to invest time in grooming your German Shepherd regularly. Things to bear in mind… They are not suitable to be left alone for a long time. They can become bored and anxious and start barking unnecessarily, chewing and digging at property. They can often be considered as aloof and suspicious of strangers. This is where socialising puppies with different experiences, places and people at a young age is important. To check out some available puppies, please look here. What are these milestones, and when can you expect them to meet them? We break it all down here, so you know exactly what to expect each step of the way. When you adopt a German Shepherd puppy, it can seem like they just keep growing. A fully grown German Shepherd will stand between 22 and 24 inches tall and weigh anywhere between 50 and 90 pounds. This manifests itself in many ways, but the most notable factor is their energy level. Puppies tend to have far more energy and be a little clumsier than fully mature dogs. German Shepherds leave their first puppy stage at around the 6-month mark, when they reach adolescence. When a dog reaches sexual maturity varies drastically depending on their sex. Male dogs tend to reach sexual maturity anywhere from 6 to 9 months, while female dogs tend to wait until adulthood. If you want to neuter a dog, you have a much smaller window to prevent puppies than with females. Their adult teeth are much larger and less sharp than their puppy teeth. Image Credit: aleksandra85foto, Pixabay Final Thoughts With so many age ranges that your German Shepherd can mature in various ways, it can be hard to keep track of everything. Related German Shepherd Reads:. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. It can be simply said that dogs are dogs but each breed differs in some distinct features and characteristics. These were known as working dogs. They are powerful and have worked in a lot of fields including security, acting, taking care of babies and fighting in wars. These can be the large-sized dog; height ranging from 24 to 29 inches. These are the dogs that also aid disabled and helpless people and make wonderful service dogs. They also need regular checkups and vaccination. Regular exercise and training are also necessary. Brushing and grooming nail cleaning and cutting, trimming hairs, ear and teeth cleansing are also essential. These also require comfortable and healthy environment, large area for playing and running freely. Not only do they fulfill roles as a companion, but they are also great with children. Many other animals are often found to be great service dogs. The coat of the black German Shepherd can vary in length, from short to medium to long depending on the individual dog. However, while they are known for their impressive ability as guard dogs they, like all creatures, require affection and attention. Perhaps, an extra chew toy is needed for your best friend back home. They are renowned for their ambient, easy going temperament. However, they have been known to take some time to warm up to new people, but socialization can help speed up the process as well. Puppies When choosing a companion dog, it is normal for coat color to be a major consideration. But how about the German Shepherd coat? Do German Shepherd puppies change color? This article will discuss German Shepherd puppy coat coloring and how that coloring changes over time. Yes, German Shepherd puppies change color as they develop into adulthood. Even after they completely shed their puppy coat and grow their permanent adult coat, you can still expect to see some subtle changes in color. Instead, it sheds and changes continuously from birth to around 6 months. Once your German Shepherd turns 7 months old, the changes to their coat color will be more subtle. Nevertheless, it will continue to transform until they become adults at around 2 years old. Puppies are single-coated and their fur is generally soft and fluffy. Over time, they will shed that coat and develop a double-coat composed of dense fur and coarse outer hairs. Thick, downy fur helps puppies regulate their temperature within their first few months of life. However, their needs will change as they develop into adults. In the spring, German Shepherds blow their undercoats in preparation for the warm summer months. They will again shed heavily in the fall to develop a thicker and possibly darker winter coat. However, their appearance will still change—possibly multiple times—until well into adulthood, which starts at around 2 years old. However, you may still notice some subtle changes in thickness as the seasons turn. The color might also change slightly due to various factors like diet and sun exposure. However, experienced breeders can often tell whether a puppy will be long-coated before they turn a month old. It is also common for some unique markings to appear or disappear at this time. Nevertheless, the change in appearance might still be significant between 7 and 18 months old. Their shade could become darker or lighter, and their coat pattern can show some slight changes as well. Changes could still occur as a result of diet, environmental exposure, or health issues. No matter what color you prefer, your German Shepherd will benefit from proper nutrition and supplements for dog coat growth. Published: December 7, pm 4 min read He may look cute and adorable because of his puppy looks, but the truth is that his life expectancy is short. He is Ranger, an adult German shepherd, whose Instagram page has more than 1,30, followers. Suffering from pituitary dwarfism, Ranger will be able to grow to just a third of the size of his littermates and unfortunately it will adversely affect his life expectancy. This is the reason why even though he is four years old, his size is that of a puppy, according to a report in dailystar. Breeders need to be aware that this can occur and they need to try and prevent it. Ranger has had a good life so far but that's not the case for all. The lack of growth hormone results in slow growth from about two months of age. Affected puppies are very obviously smaller than their littermates, and also fail to grow an adult coat — their fur remains soft and woolly. In many cases while the coat may recover, the dwarfism is irreversible and these puppies do not grow to their expected adult size. Unfortunately, the condition is life-limiting, and many dogs with the condition sadly die before they are three years old. The dog lost its coat because of low levels of thyroid but he grew it back with thyroid medication. In the beginning he faced difficulty in eating but later developed a healthy appetite. She aims to tell the breeders about this life-affecting condition and also discourage them from breeding such dogs. Even though Ranger faces health issues, he is spirited and in fact matches strides with his German shepherd sister, Jessie, who lives with him.

Only interact with dogs that are safe and you know for sure will have positive reactions to your new German Shepherd. Forcing them will only make them develop stress and anxiety in new situations and with animals. Think quality, not quantity, when socializing your German Shepherd. There are tons of new things your dog needs to get comfortable with. Use treats and positive encouragement when they investigate a new situation with confidence. Train daily. Make it fun. Punishment will only cause your dog to fear you and increase anxiety. Crouch down to offer them a gentle scratch and pet. This connects their name to paying attention to you and marks you as a positive leader, which is important for obedience training and living with their new family. Always work on rewarding good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. The goal is to build trust in the first few weeks and months that you have your new dog to create a bond. And dogs are actually happier when they are trained rspca. Keep the sessions short, but have multiple training sessions throughout the day. Never end training on a bad note. For example, give them a command they know for sure so they finish with success. Read this guide to learn all about the basics of proper German Shepherd obedience training , including a helpful training schedule and the foundation commands. Be prepared for chewing by offering the right options. Biting and chewing are natural instincts for dogs and puppies. These actions provide them with opportunities to investigate the different amounts of pressure to use in relation to the purpose of their biting. Your job as their new owner is to help your pup understand and educate them on what is appropriate to bite, nip, and chew. This teaches them your signal and cue. They should let go or look a bit startled. Follow their release with praise or a tasty treat when your dog stops the unwanted behavior. Do NOT physically punish your dog! Instead, redirect them to a proper chew toy. Sometimes puppies teethe and their gums are sore and need something to chew. Other times adult German Shepherds have a desire and natural urge to bite for relaxation and to reduce anxiety. Only use safe, non-toxic chew toys, which are found listed here, in the best strong chew toys for German Shepherds to avoid boredom. Avoid accidents by managing the home environment. Create a set routine and schedule and stick to it to avoid accidents and train your puppy faster. Say hello to your new sloppy family member… They not only shed everywhere but also dump water out when drinking, spill their food, and… Have total disrespect for your carpets! You must have them in a secure area or watch them all the time to avoid any accidents. No matter what you will clean up some kind of bodily function when owning a German Shepherd. So, do yourself a favor and stock up on pet stain and odor remover! Use food-dispensing toys and slow feeders to keep them at a healthy weight. This is a food toy called a Kong Wobbler. Keep to a schedule so that you can control their food intake and watch their weight. Instead, use rubber toys in which you place part of their food to help control their voracious eating. I like to use a Kong Wobbler for both puppies and adults. Even better? Puppies are more responsive to the Ignore method of training. As a new German Shepherd owner, you might think you need to appease your dog all the time or give in to their excessive attention-seeking. In my experience, this is one of the most effective training methods that you can use when owning a German Shepherd. Put simply, here are the basics to use the Ignore method of training: You ignore the behavior that you want to stop or reduce. On the flip side, you give attention to the behavior you want to encourage. The hard bit is ignoring a very intelligent German Shepherd who is persistent! Give your German Shepherd a job at home so they stay entertained. This represents big challenges as a German Shepherd owner. You must be smarter than your dog! But the jobs can be as easy or difficult as you have the time and energy to train. This is not a mentally lazy dog, but a breed with extremely high intelligence and a huge breadth of application for that intelligence. These dogs make wonderful companions but also require a lot of work. We recently asked experienced German shepherd owners for their best tips and this is what they said: Puppy train early. Puppy training should start when you bring them home. Teaching your puppy will also help them grow up to be a confident, well behaved dog and prevent many problems down the road. Expect puppy biting and nipping. A big surprise for many new German shepherd owners is how much their new puppy enjoys puppy biting. As herding dogs, German shepherd puppies are naturally prone to nip. All German shepherd puppies should be taught not to play bite and redirected to what is appropriate to sink their teeth into. All new owners should learn how to train this skill before bringing their land shark home. Dog Proof your home. German shepherds are naturally curious and as puppies, tend to get into anything they can. Puppy and dog proofing your home is important and will help you avoid lots of pain down the road. Protect your puppy from accidents, potential vet bills, injuries, and worse. Check out how to prepare for a German shepherd puppy here. Buy a good vacuum. These double coated dogs shed year-round and blow their coat twice a year. However, the shedding is manageable with continued brushing, vacuuming, and sweeping-just know it will be a constant thing but the work is worth all the love they return. Plan to brush often. As mentioned above, German shepherds shed — a lot. Give lots of attention. German shepherds are not ornamental dogs content to hang out in the background. They strongly desire to be part of the family and will develop behavior problems when not given the time and attention they need. They are happiest by the side of those they love and as participating family members. Provide lots of exercise. Along with needing lots of attention, they are also athletic and need lots of exercise. Fortunately, you can combine these two activities into play and training time. They love to run, fetch balls, and learn new things. Teach them house manners. When teaching your German shepherd how you expect them to behave indoors you must be consistent. Boundaries and expectations are important for these dogs to learn but also provide stability, which builds confidence. Work their brains as well as their body. German shepherds are very smart. They are capable of learning many things and get bored easily. A bored German shepherd can get destructive and develop anxious behaviors. With training, attention, interactive games, and tough chew toys, you can meet their need for mental stimulation in a fun, healthy way. As herding dogs, German shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers. They need to be socialized from a young age and exposed to many different situations and people. Doing this will help build their confidence and give you a trustworthy dog that can go anywhere. Teach them to be calm. By now, you should have the idea that German shepherds are very busy, active dogs. This could be a dog bed, a crate, or something like a cot. Whatever it is, it should be a place in your home that you can easily send them to go lay down when you need them safe and out from being underfoot, temporarily. Feed them healthy food. German shepherds are notorious for having sensitive skin and stomachs. A good quality, easily digestible diet full of nutrients for healthy skin is very important. They can also benefit from joint and skin supporting supplements such as chondroitin, glucosamine, and omega 3 oils. Set them up for success. Sadly, many German shepherds develop behavior problems or find themselves dumped at a shelter because no one took the time to train them. Their need for socialization, attention, and physical and mental exercise cannot be overstated. There is nothing more heartbreaking than a German shepherd being failed by their owner. One of the reasons why so many people love these dogs is because they are so active and smart. They are a joy to train and love learning new things. They are extremely loyal and are fast learners. Some of the most important things you can teach them include: Sit. There is nothing cuter than a fluffy bundle of German Shepherd goodness. Quickly, however, reality sets in. German shepherd puppies are a lot of work! From housetraining, chewed up household items, and establishing a routine, the very first day your adorable puppy enters your home, there are sure to be challenges as well as heart melting rewards. To help you and your puppy start off on the right paw, you need to set your puppy up for success. To get started, there are numerous books on puppy training that you can buy, free training advice online, and many opinions on the best way to raise a German Shepherd dog. You can also learn a lot from the mistakes that other German Shepherd owners have made and most are more than happy to share their experiences. Some of the most common mistakes that people make when raising a German shepherd puppy are: Getting a puppy that is too young According to the American Kennel Club, the best time for a puppy to leave its mom and littermates is at eight to twelve weeks old. Puppies develop many life skills from their mom and littermates. When placed in their new home too soon, they can develop anxiety, lack confidence, suffer from health issues, and have many more behavior problems. If a confident, healthy, well socialized dog is your goal, the wait is worth it. Trying to channel the energy of a true working line dog into the average pet home is unfair to the dog and often results in destructive behavior by the dog. There have been many frustrated owners who have ended up trying to rehome a dog with behavior problems or worse, dump them at a shelter. Before you choose a puppy, talk to breeders, rescues, and other experts to find the perfect fit for your home. Not puppy proofing the home German shepherd puppies are smart, full of curiosity, and love to chew. Left to their own devices, they will inspect every inch of your home and chew anything that catches their eye. Not being prepared for the pupping biting Like all puppies, German Shepherds like to chew. But given that they are herding dogs, they are mouthier than most breeds. Many first-time German Shepherd owners have been caught off guard by just how much their adorable puppy likes to bite and how razor sharp their teeth are. Although a small puppy nipping fingers and ankles can be cute, German Shepherds quickly start teething and soon grow into rowdy adolescents who may learn that biting is a fun game. This behavior can easily escalate and hurt someone. Chew toys can be used to redirect biting onto something acceptable. They also need plenty of chew toys to offer to teething puppies. Allowing resource guarding behavior German Shepherds are naturally protective and easily given to resource guarding. Owners should never allow their puppy to guard anything including their food, space, or favorite toy. Some signs of resource guarding include protecting an item, hard stare, laying on an item, growling, lunging, air snapping, chasing, and biting. This behavior could be as simple as a look, head turn, or slight baring of the teeth. Some ideas on how to prevent resource guarding include hand feeding and treating your puppy from their food bowl while holding it in your lap, trading up their toys and treats for higher value items, teaching them to allow you to take it, drop it and leave it, teach them to place, and letting them enjoy high value chews in peace. Failing to socialize Young German Shepherds not only need to learn the house rules, but they also need to be exposed to people and places outside the home so they grow up to be a confident dog. This should be done in a safe way, so they have good experiences and are not forced into fearful situations or hurt by other animals and people. Before your dog has its shots, you can start socializing by having people come to your home, taking your pup on car rides, drive throughs, and vet visits. Once your puppy has its shots, you can expose your puppy to all sorts of people and situations, such as people of different genders, colors, races, ages, sizes, disabled wheelchairs, crutches, etc. Not keeping to a schedule Puppies do best when they are kept on a schedule. When a puppy has regular mealtimes, potty breaks, walks, play time, and bedtime, it makes all training much easier and sets the puppy up for success. Conversely, lack of a schedule or an unpredictable environment can cause your German Shepherd puppy to develop behavior problems, cause training setbacks, and potty-training accidents. By sticking to a realistic routine, your dog will be calmer, happier, and grow up to be a confident dog. From the day you bring your dog home, commit to schedule that includes predictable mealtimes, potty breaks, training time, naps, play time, and bedtime. Avoid unrealistic schedules, such as expecting a young puppy to not have frequent potty breaks or to skip meals and drinking water. Not starting training immediately German Shepherd puppies love to learn to please their owners. Puppy training should begin the day the move into your home. By starting training early, you will help your puppy develop and grow into the amazing dog they were born to be. Young puppies can easily learn basic commands such as sit, down, wait, come, and more. We hope you enjoy this article. As always, please feel free to share with your friends. Calm older dogs are good for this one. Most importantly for German Shepherd puppies, it will give you a chance to work with them around other people, and different dogs from a young age. Settle on a mat German Shepherds are incredibly curious, which can make it difficult for them to relax while out and about. Leash walking — no one wants a large breed of dog pulling them down the street, so be sure you teach loose lead walking and how about some heelwork too? Recall games — Play a game of tennis with your pooch! Calling them from person to person with treats on either side. Get started with grooming and brushing sensitive areas — In long-haired German Shepherds, this is typically the case with the face, legs, and ears, which become tangled the most and may hurt when brushed. Remember to brush carefully, do a little bit of brushing on a sensitive area while feeding them treats or letting them have a lickimat, and then brush an easier to brush area. For socialisation, start working on items that are vital to your lifestyle this week, such as if you have a horse and want your puppy to be comfortable with horses, or if you enjoy sailing, having them near water will be important to you. Getting your puppy exposed to new experiences early on can help them accept them much more easily. Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Go to the pub — you deserve it! Remember that settle training you did before, take your mat and get your German Shepherd puppy to settle on it with a nice stuffed kong. Alone training: increasing time alone is important for your puppy. It gives them essential coping skills. Recall — Practise this outside, using a lead, and lots of rewards. Lead walking — Take this outside. Make sure you keep a strong pace going, since German Shepherds enjoy walking quickly, and praise often to keep your puppy interested. Pretend Nail Clips — simply holding a claw, pretending to clip , and rewarding your puppy with a treat is enough. Following on walks — Bring special toys, like the Tug-E-Nuff Pocket tugger, with you on walks to ensure your German Shepherd puppy enjoys hanging out with you. Playing with them will make you irresistible! Week 7 — Training your German Shepherd puppy The 7-week itch! Nah not really. I bet your German Shepherd puppy is doing wonderfully and growing rapidly! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — How about taking your German Shepherd to a city farm, letting them watch from afar and rewarding them for being such a calm puppy? Teach your German Shepherd puppy to stay — this will be a great one to show off at the park, trust us. So, first, take a walk with a dog that your German Shepherd puppy has already met. At first, it may be difficult for your puppy not to get distracted, so keep the rewards coming and try to keep them interested in you, rather than the other dog! Recall — off the lead Make sure you do this in a secure and confined area and bring plenty of smelly treats, a fun toy to play with, and your silly high-pitched voice so you can call your German Shepherd puppy back regularly. Remember, German Shepherds enjoy learning! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — maybe take your German Shepherd for a swimming lesson? Practice exercises in different locations — how about a train station, or in a shopping centre or mall? Teach a hand target — This is a favourite among pups and their owners. Hand Targeting or touching is the foundation for additional trick behaviours like leg weaving and closing doors. Introducing nose work to your puppy — We mean it when we say your German Shepherd puppy has a better nose than you! Play a game of hide and seek with their favourite toy to bring out those excellent search skills. Looking for more great puppy training tips? Check out our overview of when to start teaching your puppy anything , next. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. To train a German Shepherd puppy dog you must be consistent, kind and clear. German Shepherd dog puppies are divinely cute and for a reason! Just like babies are cute, puppies will win your heart even after destroying your favorite pair of shoes or that expensive carpet! Making sure you use them will start you on the right side of training and pave the road for you to get an obedient dog. The good news is that you do not need any special equipment to have an obedient GSD puppy. All you need is love and treats. The most important German Shepherd puppy training tip is socialization. Some vets will tell you to keep the pooch inside until the full set of vaccines is completed. Unfortunately, if you do keep your pooch safe inside until he is months of age, his socialization period will have closed forever and your chance to raise a friendly and confident dog drops significantly! That said, it is ultimately your decision whether you want to take the risk to take him outside or not. Most large US cities do not have too many disease problems and taking your puppy to a class where the trainer checks that every puppy has had the first set of shots is mostly safe. However, if you leave in a rural area, make sure there is not an outbreak of a disease that can affect your pooch. Of all the German Shepherd puppy training tips, I suggest you really think this one through. As a dog trainer, I recommend you find a safe puppy socialization class because this developmental period is critical to prevent behavior problems in the future. Apart from that, you also need to socialize your puppy daily on your own, this link will explain the process and give you a list of things to check as you go! Tip 2: Teach your German Shepherd puppy to use his mouth properly. You may have noticed that your German Shepherd puppy likes to chew on your shoes, toys, boxes, carpets, pillows, your hands…well, pretty much everything! Before you loose your mind and all your precious possessions let me tell you that this is normal puppy behavior. At this age dogs explore everything with their mouths and even though annoying, it is a great time to teach your pet what is appropriate for his mouth as well as how to soften the bite. The reason German Shepherd dog puppies have sharp teeth is because they are capable of learning how much or how little pressure to apply when biting different things. This is good news! To train a German Shepherd puppy to do this follow this link! Tip 3: Potty train your German Shepherd puppy the right way. Right around now you are also probably dealing with potty training, the best German Shepherd puppy training tips for potty training are outlined below. You should know how many times, and when to take you puppy out. I am sure you have heard all sorts of things against the use of food for training. To do this, you need to find the things that your dog likes most and use them as rewards. Food will be one of them, so use it. But also use anything else, like walks, petting, play time, toys, etc. So, of all the German shepherd puppy training tips here, I don't want to hear any excuses for this one! Done the right way, your pooch will respond to your command even when empty handed. Hope my website is helping you better understand and train your dog. Do you want to help? Be a modern philanthropist through Patreon. This is a hard concept to understand for us, clever human beings. When we learn something new, we can very easily generalize the concept to any situation, that is what makes us creative creatures. Fortunately, you have a German Shepherd puppy, they are clever and chances are they will need less repetitions than the average breed. To help you out on this matter, this link will take you to a step-by-step guide to train a reliable command. Tip 6: Train your German Shepherd puppy to ask for permission. Dog commands and fun and useful and you can probably find hundreds to teach your GSD. This one though - Ask for permission - is technically not a command, because you will not ask your canine to do it every time, instead you want to teach him to do it on his own every time the occasion requires it. Take time to do this with your puppy, it will be worth it! This is another one of the most important German Shepherd puppy training tips because a dog that asks for permission is an obedient and safe dog. To prevent a dog from jumping on people it is imperative to teach that same dog not to jump when he is a puppy. If he jumps again, then ignore again. When I say ignore, I mean it! No eye contact, no pushing or kneeing…nothing. Keep turning around if you have to. Pulling on the leash is another of those dog behaviors that people think come out of the blue, but actually they happen because there was never formal training done. To prevent pulling on the leash all you have to do is make sure your puppy understands that he gets rewarded food, petting, attention, verbal praise, keep on walking, etc. Pay close attention to what he does during those first few walks together and make sure you reward him for staying close to you! Got any German Shepherd puppy training tips to share with us? Tell us about them here! Those ideas came from research done in wolfs in captivity and have now been debunked by new research done in wolfs in the wild. The new research says that you need to be a good leader, kind of like a parent. Alphas are most often the parents of the group. Provide shelter, food, safety and limits. This article tells you more about it! Tip The best German Shepherd puppy training tip is… Reward good behavior and ignore bad behavior. This rule is amazing and will work wonders, besides it is really easy to apply, all you have to do is pay attention to your German Shepherd puppy and reward the good things he does. You need to figure out what the reward is and remove it. For example, when a dog is laying down, it is harder to bark. This Form cannot be submitted until the missing fields labelled below in red have been filled in What is your DOG's name? Please note that all fields followed by an asterisk must be filled in.