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She graduated from the University of Glasgow in with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed , times. Labrador retrievers are an adorable and popular dog breed that can make a great addition to your household. Aside from a physical examination, you can do a professional DNA test on the dog to check its genetic makeup. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Does the fur appear short, and have a thick texture? The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Did you know? There are silver labs, but silver is not an acceptable color in the breed standard as this color is believed to have come from a cross with the Weimaraner. However, dogs with this coat color may still be registered with certain kennel clubs. If the dog is a yellow or black lab, check that the puppy has brown eyes. In the case of chocolate labs, check for brown or hazel eyes. Check to see how long its legs are; while a Labrador should have longer legs than a Dachshund, its legs should be shorter than a Husky. Purchase a dog genetics test, which will give you a specialized testing kit. Some DNA tests will look for genetic markers, while cheaper tests focus more on the different breeds. Tip: Try to keep the puppy from sharing food or playing rough with the other dogs, as this might hurt the integrity of the saliva sample. Package the saliva sample according to the instructions given by the company. Seal the envelope or package carefully, so the sample is completely secure while it travels to the lab. Generally, you can find the test results listed by breed, followed by a percentage; however, this might differ, depending on the company. If this is possible, use a cotton swab to collect saliva samples from 1 or both parents. Store these samples carefully, so you can send them to a professional company. Seal the envelope or package carefully to secure the sample, and keep it safe in transit. Go to source Seeing a CH or confirmation champion title on the pedigree certificate means that the dog is close to the ideals in the breed standard and is related to a dog that was able to win over other dogs at a show with at least 15 conformation points. Go to source A dog with this lineage can make a great candidate for showing. If your dog has documented parentage with the American Kennel Club, you can search their database and purchase a certificate that affirms this. You can also register your dog through the American Kennel Club once you have proof of their pedigree. Go to source Fees for pedigrees very depending on the type. So Many Options! Where To Get a Labrador? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Except, you remember hearing you should only buy from professional breeders?! But that puppy in the pet store was so achingly cute! This article discusses the things you should consider before making that life changing decision. From dedicated experts who breed pedigree dogs to work or for show, to those who breed too many puppies, litter after litter purely for sale without love nor care for the health of the mother or quality of the litter. For how to recognize who the good breeders are, read our article: Labrador breeders — How to find the good ones! Buying from a good, responsible breeder is without doubt the best source for a quality, healthy Labrador puppy. They care about the overall welfare of the breed, as well as the health of the mother, quality of the litter and giving the puppies the best start in life. Responsible breeders: Guarantee a purebred and pedigree Labrador. Screen the parents for health problems before breeding , so puppies will be as free as possible from inherited diseases. Selectively breed aiming for conformance to the breed standard, so your lab has the most chance of looking like the perfect lab. Carefully socialize puppies from birth so they are well-adjusted and confident before sending them to a new home. Help buyers to select the right puppy from the litter to suit their personality, hopes and expectations. Helping you to get the puppy of your dreams. Provide expert help and advice on caring for the dog from puppyhood right through to adulthood. When you go to a good breeder you should expect lots of questions. They will also help to match you to the perfect puppy that suits your personality, preventing you from getting the wrong dog on impulse. You know the cute but feisty one that got your attention by barging through his litter mates to run up to you and be the first to say hello? Well, he may very likely become a dominant and strong-willed dog! You May Need Patience You should note that many breeders will have a long waiting list for their Labrador puppies. Then this may not be the right way for you. But this is a good thing! And nobody should buy a puppy on impulse, it must be a well thought out and reasoned decision. Maybe you would like to give a lucky Labrador a second chance at life and happiness? Adopting an Older Labrador From a Rescue Kennel Can Have Many Benefits: They will have been house trained already — No getting up in the middle of the night to relieve your puppy…or cleaning your floor after the inevitable mishaps. An adult Labrador will already show signs of any underlying problems so you can avoid this. Many will have received a decent amount of training already — Saving you lots of time and work. Having said all that… There are Some Obvious Risks! Or perhaps due to health problems that developed. Some may have faced abuse and neglect leaving them with psychological scars. Behavioral problems are sometimes well hidden, and aggression may only surface in very particular situations only. But if you are patient, understanding and can inject some routine and love into one of these dogs lives, they can become absolutely wonderful pets. There are also different types of rescue center and animal shelters. You will be able to get a feel for the level of the center when you visit and how professional they are and the staff to dog ratios. The Process When rescuing a lab, a good, well staffed shelter will ask you to visit and spend time with your potential pet. They will have assessed the dog and will tell you all they know about the dogs history and temperament. They will ask you lots of questions to find out whether you and your lifestyle are a good fit for a Labrador. They will want to meet you and your whole family. They will want to see how the people the Labrador is to live with interact with it and how the lab interacts with them. And that your choice of dog is well suited to you and interacts well with you on visits will they eventually allow you to adopt. Rescuing a Labrador can be a very good choice as long as due care is taken to pick the right one. And you will earn many karma points for doing a very good deed. It is a massive risk to take a puppy from a litter like this. These dogs have more than the average number of inherited diseases and behavioral problems. So although you will be saving a bit of money compared to paying out to a professional Labrador breeder. Or you might even be saving a dog from being given to a rescue center and possibly eventually being put down. You just might be letting yourself in for some expensive surprises in the way of vets bills or behavioral specialists later. But having said that, of course many of these puppies do become very good pets indeed. In fact a few places in the world have now banned the sale of puppies from pet stores. In these places, dogs are often bred in poor conditions, sometimes kept in small wire cages and given very little chance to socialize and little if any personal contact with humans. Have you had any good or bad experiences of getting a Labrador from any of the places listed above? Is there anything you would like to add about the pros and cons of the various places you can get yourself a Lab? Please let us know in the comments section below and you just might help people reading this article to make the right decision! Related Article:. Are they good family dogs? Labrador Dog Price — The Costs Involved Buying a Labrador is not just a question of the purchase price of a Lab puppy, though of course that is important. There are other costs involved, both financial, emotional and in terms of time and effort. So we need to look at those too. You may be wondering whether you will have the time for a dog, and if you have the space and energy for a large and lively breed? But this page will take you back to the fundamental considerations, to help you to make the right choice for you and your family. Do you have time for a dog? Can you afford a dog? What about your lifestyle? Will a dog fit in with your family? Is a Labrador the right dog for you? These questions all apply regardless of the type of Labrador you are looking for. The needs of a black Lab, yellow Lab or chocolate Lab are all the same in these respects. The same goes for an English or American Labrador too. Dogs need space, both indoors and outside. Even small breeds need room to stretch their legs and run about. And Labradors as fairly large and lively dogs need quite a lot of space. This means you need a decent sized backyard if you plan on buying a Labrador puppy. Somewhere that your Lab dog can run around, play and enjoy training sessions with you. Labradors can be quite silly during adolescence, bouncing and cavorting in the home. Their tails are long and thick, easily knocking any fragile decorations you might have from shelves. If you have lots of ornaments then you will need to move them to higher shelves to avoid them getting damaged. You will also need to move anything that could be easily damaged by chewing. With small puppies this will be very often indeed. Perhaps every 15 to 20 minutes during their first few days with you. If you live in a flat, or do not have a garden, this will be difficult for you. These are helpful but do take up a lot of space. Although this will take up a lot of space indoors, it can work very well for larger apartments with no easy outside access. Ideally however you do need to have a garden, and a part of the garden which your dog can use as a bathroom, along with a good system for clearing up after him hygienically. Space is key for a Lab dog! The right space for a Labrador includes large clear rooms in the house, with no breakable or fragile objects within his grasp. And ideally access to a garden where they can easily be let out to the bathroom and have room to play. Keeping a single Labrador permanently outside however is not usually a good idea, even with adequate shelter and security. Labs are very sociable dogs and prone to separation anxiety if they lack company. This means your dog may be both sad and noisy. It is always sad to hear from new puppy owners that are struggling to juggle the needs of a puppy with their need to work. These articles will help you to deal with this common issue. Even with a visit at lunch time. An older dog may cope with being left for up to four hours in row on a regular basis, but puppies need more attention than this. Contented Labradors are fairly quiet dogs and unlikely to disturb your neighbors. Nor are they very good guard dogs. However, lonely dogs bark and wreck things. If you work all day, can you afford to pay someone to come in and let him out to stretch his legs and empty himself? Or do you have a relative or friend that would be prepared to do this on a regular basis. Bear in mind that this is quite a lot to ask of anyone in the long term. The biggest long term time commitment in owning a dog is in the form of training and exercise. Training Takes Time All dogs need training in order that they can rub along in human society without being a complete nuisance. This means a regular daily commitment of ten to twenty minutes from you, in addition to your regular interaction with the dog. Training cannot be saved up for the weekend, your dog will have forgotten most of what he learnt the weekend before, and he does not have the attention span to concentrate on you for an hour and a half. You can find out more about training your Labrador puppy here. Staying Fit Exercise is required on a regular basis, for some breeds of dog this means at least an hour a day of walking or jogging to keep your dog fit and healthy. You can find out more about the exercise requirements of a Labrador puppy here. Whilst your dog will not come to any harm if you miss a day occasionally, a daily routine is often the best way to ensure that you build this important habit. Can You Afford A Dog? Dogs can be quite expensive to run. You need to consider not only how much a Labrador will cost you to buy, but also how much it will cost you to keep. How much do Labradors cost from breeders? The price of a Labrador puppy will vary from breeder to breeder, and from place to place. Perhaps you know a friend that has a litter of puppies and they are going to let you have one for free. However, the purchase price of a dog is almost irrelevant. It is such a small part of the final cost. The cost of keeping a Labrador The reality is, you are also going to need to fork out a chunk of your wages each week on keeping your pooch happy and healthy. Obviously you will have taken the cost of a good brand of Labrador puppy food into consideration. It is a good idea to budget for veterinary insurance too. Not because it is unreasonably priced, but simply because it is now so advanced. You can fix a lot of problems these days. We can do open heart surgery, mend complex fractures, treat cancer with radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Pretty much anything you can treat in a human, you can now treat in a dog. And the catch? It costs. The more comprehensive your insurance package the more it will cost. Watch out for very cheap deals, as they may not provide continuing cover for long term ailments. You will also need to vaccinate your dog against common canine illness , and this will probably need to be done each year too. Especially if you are wanting to occasionally leave them in boarding kennels when you go away, as they require up to date vaccination certificates. Labrador Puppy Costs There will be a few other one-off costs such as a puppy crate and puppy play pen for your home for when your dog is young, another for your car if you have one. Then there are bowls, bedding, collar, leash etc. But you may be able to borrow a crate or get one second hand. Here are some of the items you will need for your new Labrador puppy, and reviews on the best options for Labradors:. Nevertheless, the hard part is finding the right puppy for your family. Let us help you pick the right puppy with show quality for your home. In my eyes, there is no better companion for a family than a well-raised, well-trained show-quality Labrador. They make great family pets because of their innate intelligence and ability to bond with people. So why is it that few families actually own a Labrador? Our guess is that most folks simply do not know the facts about these lovable dogs. They are great with kids and other pets. Show-quality Labrador Retrievers are very athletic, love to exercise and play, and are always ready for sports. They are excellent swimmers that love the water - large ponds or tiny puddles will do - they love to retrieve tennis balls, footballs, etc. Webbing between their toes gives them extra traction in snow or mud so they can chase balls or engage in many different outdoor activities. Labrador retrievers come from the field and show lines. They are beautiful dogs with a stable temperament that will make a great addition to your family. Good Labs have a reputation as being extremely friendly, stable, and dependable. They are not high-energy dogs and love a good long nap! These dogs also excel in all categories of competition, including conformation, hunting, tracking, and therapy work. Moreover, the quality that makes this breed so special is displayed in show-bred Labradors. These dogs are exceptionally patient. They also have a quiet demeanor, which makes them perfect for the home. In addition, they are loyal, easygoing, willing to please, tireless workers, excellent with children, and have a gentle nature around people of all ages. A show dog is the highest level of quality. They have been health tested and trained and can be used to produce puppies that will enhance your bloodline quality and reliability in their future prospects. Our dogs must meet exacting standards for confirmation and temperament before they will go to any show. We focus on the breed standard for each of our dogs and put lots of effort into showing them so that we may bring you a top-quality pet. Labrador Retrievers Are Healthy Dogs Keep in mind that a dog may eventually develop a health problem. We all know that our Labrador, whether bred from championship stock or not, is going to be a pet and not a show dog. However, even a non-champion Labrador will be healthy. A Labrador retriever is a terrific overall family pet. Their gentle energetic attitude and show dog looks have made this breed a popular choice for families looking for a dog who will bring love, loyalty, and enthusiasm to the household. Show-quality Labradors are bred for conformation to the breed standard of the American Kennel Club, showing excellence in structure, movement, coat quality, temperament, and intactness. Ideal Size and Weight The right Labrador is not just large but beautiful. A solid show-quality Labrador weighs between 65 to 80 pounds, with males being larger than females. The head should be broad and blocky, with a short but strong muzzle, medium stop between the eyes and skull, and small ears set well back on the sides of the head. Eyes should be medium-sized and brown colored with black rims. The body should be straight-fronted along with a strong rear. The feet are moderate in size with well-arched toes. Labrador retrievers are among the most popular dog breeds. In fact, Labradors have been named as America's most beloved dog in the American Kennel Club's rankings every year since , when the AKC began using its current ranking method. Labs received a combined more than , votes in , far ahead of the second-place finishers in the "top dog" contest--the beagle and golden retriever. However, did you know that their mouths are so soft they can fetch for you? Purchasing a show-quality Labrador means enjoying many Labradors throughout their life. You will have to take them for walks or runs since they have lots of energy. They are affectionate toward family members and love to give kisses. They are taught to retrieve on land, in water, or through the air. In addition, Show-quality Labradors are intelligent, confident family companions with an insatiable appetite for food and praise. A Labrador is a highly energetic dog that is impossible to leave alone at home for long periods. Labradors are handsome dogs with adorable smiles, playful behavior, and a devoted heart. As the most popular breed in the world, Labradors are useful for many tasks such as pulling sleds in extreme environments, bringing you slippers, protecting your house, hunting waterfowl, and so much more. More than ever before, people and families are buying pets for companionship. These animals cheer us up when we are sad, scare away strangers who come too close to our homes, and comfort us when we are stressed after work. More and more people are also buying dogs as security guards for their homes and shops. If you want to get one yourself, Smoky Mtn Labradors is your go-to place! Thank you David for all the joy you have given us. We love our beautiful dogs! He is just perfect! My vet said he has never seen a better put together Lab. He is the hit of our community and has to say hello to everyone he meets. Hidden Ponds is just the best place to purchase a Lab. David is so kind and informative. His dogs are gorgeous and well mannered. They treat their dogs with kindness and it shows. They are smart, their costs are beautiful! He has a great personality and is wonderful with the kids! He is lbs and thinks he is a lap dog. We would definitely buy from Dave again!! Lindie is an incredible athlete, as you can see by the photo. Lindie also volunteers at our local hospital in Glens Falls, NY comforting anyone that needs fur therapy! She is an amazing ambassador for the Labrador breed! Thank you! He hiked his first mountains this weekend in the Adirondacks. He is such a wonderful addition to our family and we will be back for a companion for him next year. Read more testimonials Bentley Bentley is almost 4 years old and is absolutely amazing! She is the happiest, cuddliest, wiggliest ball of fur, and I love her more than I can say. She is super smart, very curious, and a little mischievous. She has already learned to walk very well with my wheelchair. Thank you, Hidden Pond! At 9weeks she has accomplished stairs,swimming learned to sit and give paw. Play time and eating remain 1 LOL but,she is full of kisses and love all the time too. My sweet service dog, Rhett, came home in October of and has been the biggest blessing in my life. This breeder not only breeds for confirmation and health but for perfect personality and temperament. They are perfect in every sense of the term responsible breeder. I cannot imagine life without my Labs. And not to mention how welcoming everyone was when we went to pick Rhett up. They care about each puppy they welcome into their home. And they strongly support several forms of care to keep the puppies happy and healthy in their new homes like food and supplements! I cannot thank them enough or recommend them enough!! Savannah Stevens Read more testimonials Chip Chip is a crazy, funny, lovable gem. He is the most gorgeous dog. He has the most regal head. Everyone who sees him stops to tell us what a handsome dog he is. Thank you to Hidden Pond for letting him be ours. We picked her up in early July , and she made our family complete! She is such an amazing dog: sweet, gentle, loving, and playful. It is wonderful to see how much she loves our three young boys. We love how much she loves being outside — especially swimming and playing in the snow. Thank you Dave and your family for bringing her into our lives. She was exactly what our family needed to be complete. She is the sweetest, spunkiest and most wonderful dog we could have asked for. We picked him up this past September. He is a joy, fully housebroken, and so very funny. Everyone who meets him always comment on how handsome he is. He is really beginning to look like his dad, Thunder. He loves walking and meeting all his dog friends in our community. Thanks, David, for this wonderful dog! He has made our house a home again!! She brings so much joy to our home. She is loyal, smart and a lot of fun. She loves going on walks or long hikes in the woods and is a big snuggler in the house. Scout has a very sweet disposition and people comment on what a beautiful girl she is. She enjoys people and dogs of all ages. Thank you Dave, we are enjoying every day with one of your Hidden Pond pups! Courtney Hundley Read more testimonials Raemo This Lab is truly a best friend to everyone that comes his way. Very kind and affectionate. Raemo is now 6 months old and is great with the family, friends and the neighborhood. He is great with other dogs too! David and his Labs are simply the best and worth the wait! Rob Amurao Read more testimonials Daisy We got Daisy in June , but Dave introduced us to her the day she was born; it was love at first sight!!! Dave kept us updated with pictures and short videos as we anxiously awaited the day we could pick her up. She has been an absolute joy in our lives! She is incredibly smart, a sweetheart along with being an active puppy. She was swimming at 10 weeks with our other dogs. She is now 10 months old; everyone she meets loves her. Thank you, Dave, for such an awesome new family member!!! Marilyn Morey Read more testimonials Mabel Mabel is 6 months and we thank you for this blessing. She is a wonderful addition to our family. We love going on adventures with our little girl. Highly recommend and reasonable pricing! He has an amazing temperament, his favorite activities are long walks and swimming! Marlana Broderick Read more testimonials Chip Chip is the best dog we have ever had. He is funny, silly, smart and so handsome. We get stopped on the street every 5 feet. Everyone asks where he is from and tells us how gorgeous he is. Thank you Dave. This photo is with his sister Cocoa. Chip on the left Cocoa on the right. She has such a great personality. Gets along so well with the grandkids ,and so adaptable she took to the crate and house breaking so easily. Accepts new experiences so calmly. Dave has been great to work with a fountain of info. We also went with the dog food he recommended an love the results that we switched our cat to it as well. She is the most beautiful, sweet tempered, smart lab. We could not be happier having her as part of our family. Romy Ziegler.

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More Are you looking for adorable Labradoodle puppies in Indiana? All of them follow ethical breeding practices and make sure that their puppies come from healthy, carefully screened parents. For this, ethical Labradoodle breeders in Indiana conduct rigorous health and genetic testing on their breeding dogs. Only dogs who have passed with flying colors are used for breeding purposes, which greatly reduces the risk of the puppies inheriting any genetic conditions or hereditary illnesses. Some breeders even offer a three-year health warranty! All of these organizations require that their member breeders follow their strict health testing standards, ethical breeding practices, and provide the pups a nurturing, loving, and safe environment to grow up in. Additionally, some breeders also post their customer testimonials on their websites. Chestnut Hill Labradoodles is a Puppy Culture breeder and also utilizes important puppy rearing techniques from Avidog. They make sure that all of their pups are properly socialized with children, adults, elderly, and other dogs before adoption. They also implement various enrichment methods, such as potty training, crate training, Early Neurological Stimulation ENS , regular grooming, household desensitization, and more. What Makes This Breeder Unique? Puppies receive their age appropriate vaccinations, dewormings, a microchip, free pet insurance for 30 days through Trupanion, and early spaying or neutering. We extend this for an additional year for puppies who continue on the food recommended, as nutrition is such a vital aspect of a healthy dog. We follow strict procedures for visitors to our property to avoid bringing contagions on site. Intentional breeding and intentional puppy raising is science-based and proven to provide you with the finest puppy achievable. At Chestnut Hill Labradoodle, we take pride in raising our puppies on an Advanced Puppy Curriculum with a focus aimed towards quality temperament working dogs and stable dogs for your family life. By evaluating temperaments, we are honoring the voice of the puppy. Not all puppies are right for every home and not all homes are ideal for every puppy. Temperament evaluations give us information to make proper placements for our puppies for lifetime success in the homes of our clients. It is best to fall in love with the whole litter early on especially if you have young children , as temperaments do not begin to emerge until 6 weeks. We believe in optimally vaccinating, not over-vaccinating. Vet wellness exams, microchips implanted, and Early Spay or Neuter are completed at age 7 weeks. Here you will find specific litter information, pictures, videos, care guides and more. Everything you need at your fingertips along with a behind the scenes look. Coverage is FREE for 30 days with no strings attached. Provided by TruPanion. Everything you need to raise a well mannered dog is included- extensive video library, checklists, live puppy classes, one-on-one with the trainer, and even the AKC Canine Good Citizen lessons. Details for each litter's swag bag can be found on the VIP page. Contact us with all your needs, no matter big or small. So, take your time, look around, and learn all there is to know about us. We hope you enjoy our site and take a moment to drop us a line. This way, you will know what to expect and if this is the right breed for your home. Ashford Manor Labradoodles Ashford Manor Labradoodles is one of the breeding centers you can rely on if ever looking for labradoodle dogs in Indiana. They have been in this industry for a long time now, which means they have already established a reputation among dog lovers. They have a wide variety of Labradoodle puppies for sale, and that is why you will never have a hard time choosing from them. Ashford Manor only works with the top Australian Labradoodle lines, and they go through every procedure to a tee. The dogs would not be unaware of this, but they get improved genetics in terms of superior hypoallergenic and non-shedding hair. In addition, they maintain a small breeding program to give each puppy the attention and socialization it requires for them to grow up to be loving, loyal pets. Ashford breeds multigenerational mini and medium-sized Labradoodle puppies. A professional trainer guides these pedigree puppies in fluffy, allergy-friendly, and non-shedding coats. Each puppy comes with a 2-year genetic health guarantee. Address: West Columbia St. This is why Chestnut Hill Labradoodles is one of the top breeders on the list. Chestnut Hill Labradoodles is located in Indiana, and they can provide you with all the information you need about their services and products. The puppies learn through positive reinforcement and puppy culture training because the first sixteen weeks are so important. They are best known for their multigenerational mini, medium, and standard-sized Labradoodle puppies. Not to mention that this Gold Paw enterprise is one of the favorites in Indiana for Labradoodle puppies. In addition, they offer a two-year health guarantee. Not only do they provide excellent services, but they also offer different types of puppies, depending on what you are looking for. Daffodil Hill Australian Labradoodles are popular for their mini and medium-sized puppies. They are multigenerational hypoallergenic dogs that are not only friendly but also intelligent. Each puppy will be part of your family for the rest of its life. They breed only the finest Australian and American multigenerational non-shedding Hypoallergenic miniature and medium Labradoodle for sale. Its mission is to provide loving families with the healthiest and best-natured Labradoodle pups in Indiana. Forever Friends uses a gentle and kind temperament to ensure that the puppies are comfortable in every situation, which is why Doodles from Forever Friends make excellent family pets. They breed F1, F1B, and multigenerational labradoodle puppies in both mini and medium sizes. They provide excellent services, but their pups are also highly intelligent and make great family pets. Furthermore, they guarantee their puppies for two years from genetic diseases. If you have allergies, the Harvest Labradoodles are perfect for you because they are non-shedding and very friendly, making them ideal as family pets. Address: Located on a small family farm in Madison, Indiana. Phone: Website: www. We hope that you will find it helpful to adopt one of these non-shedding and hypoallergenic dogs. They will be perfect as your new family pet, and they will have a positive impact on your life. Smaller Labradoodle breeders in Indiana offer advantages such as greater specific care for each puppy and a feeling of becoming part of the family when you buy from them. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. Conclusion 1. This family-owned breeder has been in business for over three years now. While they are relatively new in the industry, they have received many positive reviews. The Australian Labradoodle puppies in mixed colors look curious to the surroundings. The breeder has a acre field where they raise their pups in a family-friendly environment. Dogs have a huge playing field in Daffodil Hill Australian Labradoodles. In fact, they indicate that their pups live in their home and are a part of their daily lives. Daffodil Hill Australian Labradoodles are pretty responsive as they love interacting with their pet parents. The breeder offers lifetime assistance to new pet parents to help them adopt their new furry friends successfully. Labradoodles from this breeder undergo basic training to ensure puppies have the required skills before moving to their forever homes. The breeder offers a 2-week board and train program to new pet owners. This is part of their adoption process to help puppies and pet parents get along on the right foot. Contact Details:. Ashford Manor offers important services that benefit you, your puppy, and your family! Puppy Bootcamp Your puppy is already socialized and prepared for family life, but this takes it a step further. For an additional fee and in four weeks, your puppy will begin to know basic commands. Grooming Services Australian Labradoodles are groomed in a special way. Many groomers do not this, but we do. Try us out! It takes time to search for the best products for your dog. We understand that. She is amazing, wonderful, and adorable. Nothing seems bothers her: not the noise, car horns, police sirens, fire engines, or motorcycles. You should hear all the comments I get from people who stop me to ask what breed she is and tell me how cute and beautiful she is. He is totally crate trained, and has very rarely had an accident inside. He slept the first night and every night from 11pm-6AM better than any of my 4 kids! People with dogs say that we are very lucky and have such a great dog! She is always the smartest one in the class as she is such a quick learner! Izzy is pretty much completely potty trained — she regularly rings the bells — though she has figured out that ringing the bells get her the attention she likes, so she does that for fun sometimes too. He is just a doll and the grand kids love him. Kids absolutely adore her — thank you for such a wonderful puppy. Our breeding program includes Labradoodles from Tegan Park and Rutland Manor, the originators of this clever breed. We are dedicated to preserving the Australian Labradoodle, by insuring sound breeding practices, excellence and the highest standard of ethics. Our dogs and puppies live in our home as loved pets. They are well socialized and used to children and other animals. Proper socialization is important to the puppy you will adopt so much attention is given to your new puppy. While in our home we take the utmost care of your new puppy. Your little prince or princess will be treated like royalty. You can be assured that the best care and attention is given to all aspects of breeding, and that we are devoted to advancing and preserving this unique breed. Only sound Labradoodles are allowed to participate in our breeding program. Our adherence to these policies backs up our guarantee in providing only the best Australian Labradoodles. It is my goal to produce the finest companion for your family and am honored that so many families come to me for their puppy. Australian Labradoodles. We also offer older trained pet puppies!!! We care very deeply about the well-being of our dogs for future generations. As a result, we have all our breeding stock tested genetically, hips and elbows are scored by the OFA, and eyes are certified. Each of our breeding dogs are specifically selected for the best temperament for service and therapy work so our puppies have the best chance at being happy doing this work that helps to enrich so many peoples lives. Our moms and dads live in guardian homes so each doggie parent is a much loved member of their family. They will come to us for breeding and moms will come to us to have their puppies and at the end of their career they stay with that family forever. Our puppies are raised specifically for service and therapy work by special puppy raisers that work with the puppies every day from birth on up until our trainer evaluates them at around 8 weeks of age. They start with early neural stimulation at 3 days old and go on to add touching the pups all over their body and settling the pups on their back. We play sound tracks to get them used to different sounds, lure them over obstacles with food for training purposes, have them meet at least different people and go to day cares, nursing homes, ball games, schools, hospitals, the mall, church functions and many other places all before 8 weeks of age. This gives our puppies the best start in their life whether they go on to be a service dog, a therapy dog or just a much loved family pet. Meet the people behind the scenes that help to make your puppy the best it can be! Emily is my partner and acts as my assistant at times. Emily is the head of our puppy raising program and both her and Randy are our puppy raisers. We have always had poodles, spaniels and Labrador retrievers in our family and loved the fact that the Australian Labradoodles are a perfect combination. We became a guardian for our Rudy from Meadow Park and fell in love immediately with his lovable personality. Little did we know that a few years later, after moving to the country, we would be raising Meadow Park puppies for service and therapy. We are grateful that we can babysit our grand babies daily and raise these puppies alongside them!! At first, it was all about the excitement of bringing new puppies into the world and hoping they would go on to do great things. Then, during our socialization outings, we realized just how much they were helping others in the community! Seeing the faces on nursing home residents, that have been depressed, light up as they snuggle a puppy. Watching as a small child, that is normally shut down, respond and participate in class for the first time. And, seeing the tears in the eyes of Doctors, nurses and first responders, in an inner city hospital, as they cuddle a puppy and relax after a stressful shift. What a blessing it has been to us personally, working with the puppies and watching them become confident and strong. As we raise these little ones, we pray that each of these puppies goes on to make a difference in every life they touch. She is the one that evaluates all our puppies at 8 weeks of age and lets us know which puppies will make the grade for service and therapy dogs. Julie comes from a family of dog trainers and has been training dogs herself for over 20 years. Julie is Master Certified to train: service and therapy dogs, police dogs, bomb dogs, obedience training, problem behaviors, house manners and just about anything you want your dog or puppy trained for. Contact Our Breeders!

Chew Toys. Once those are taken care of, keep in mind that you'll still need to purchase grooming tools , training collars , training treats and toys , such as a ball on a rope and tugs , tags or getting microchipping done etc. Making sure your new puppy will be happy, healthy, comfortable, mentally stimulated, and well trained definitely costs a few dollars and requires enough gear to fill up a medium-sized tote or better. Prep your home. You're bringing in a small terror ball of destruction inside of your home. Keep cords safely out of the way. Anything that's expensive and breakable, chewable, or anything less than immortal should be put up high, or in a room the puppy has no access to. Research the plants in your home to make sure they're not poisonous to dogs. Keep your medications stored away safely. Keep all dangerous chemicals locked up, or up high out of reach. Try to close off an area of your home where you spend the most time so your puppy can spend time with you and the family without being able to wander freely and get into trouble. Look for home care. If you can take a week or two off, that's phenomenal. It'll help you bond with your puppy and give you a head start on potty training. But, if you work, even if you take time off, you'll have to return to work eventually. Make sure you have arrangements put in place to help when you're not home. If you have family members or friends who can help with letting your new puppy outside to use the bathroom, that's great. If not, you'll need to look into dog walkers, pet sitters, doggy daycares etc. If someone will be coming to your home to help out, make sure you get a key made for them. Find a good trainer. All trainers are good trainers in their own minds, so look for ones who compete in obedience or protection sports preferably. They don't just talk about training, they do it, and compete against their peers. Such a trainer will almost always be better and more knowledgeable than a trainer who got a certificate in weeks but has never competed. Competition helps trainers understand where they are weak, and there's usually someone around willing to help them strengthen their weaknesses. These are the people you want to employ to help you. Once you've found a good trainer, stick with them. If you're doing classes, finish the classes. If you did boarding and training, make sure you bring the dog back to that trainer for issues. Half a program, or passing a dog from trainer to trainer is just going to cause a lot of regret later. That said, if your trainer isn't knowledgeable enough to tackle specific issues, or isn't as good as you thought, it's perfectly okay to seek help elsewhere. A good trainer knows their limitations and what they excel at. You shouldn't expect an obedience trainer to be able to teach your dog to compete in protection sports down the line if they don't have experience in that arena. Pick a reputable breeder. This is the most important part of the list. You always hear that you need to go to a reputable breeder, but what does that truly mean? What makes someone a reputable breeder? A reputable breeder always gets his breeding stock's hips and elbows x-rayed and certified by PennHip, OFA, or the organization of the dog's home country if they're from Europe or elsewhere. Reputable breeders have a purpose to breed. They have a goal they want realized that is more than making a quick buck. Good working line breeders put an emphasis on health, strong nerves, working ability and drive, so they can produce solid working dogs. Good show line breeders breed with the same ideals, but there's a bit less focus on drive and working ability. There are also some breeders who specifically focus on producing good family pets that they describe as medium to low drive, healthy and medium of character neither hard, nor soft of temperament. It's up to you which you pick, but all should have health testing done and be stable dogs who aren't fearful or outwardly aggressive. Reputable breeders are obsessed with cleanliness and health. They keep their whelping quarters tidy and their pup's health and well-being are their 1 priority above all else. Your puppy should've received a "Well Puppy" checkup prior to coming home and should have a vaccination history. Puppies may also come microchipped or tattooed for identification, although ear tattoos are becoming more and more rare. Reputable breeders only breed dogs that are registered or registerable in your country. Ask a few, short questions about a breeders lines and what you can expect from a puppy that they produce. Breeders have lives and jobs. They will not be able to talk to you for hours on end to answer questions. So keep everything short and simple. Ask questions like "What are you expecting from this litter? An answer like "Well, my lines have great drive and working aptitude, but their sire tends to throw puppies that are on the lower side of the standard in size" is an honest answer. The dogs are still in standard, they still fit what the breeder wants, and their only complaint is that they get smaller pups than they'd like every now and then. No dog, no line, and no breeder is perfect. Being honest about those things says a lot about the person you trust to give your money to, and trust for them to give you a healthy, stable puppy in return. We also want to emphasize that you won't have a breeder to call with questions down the line. You'll know nothing about the pup's health history. If you choose adoption, you don't know what issues may arise down the road, so you need to be prepared for vet costs and insure you have the best trainer available in your area. We hope this helps any prospective puppy buyers or rescuers. These are some steps you can take before ever bringing a puppy home. Did we miss any? Let us know in the comments! Thank you, and please leave a like and share. A general rule of thumb is that a puppy can hold her bladder for approximately one hour for every month old they are. Most puppies find their way to a new home at months old, so they should go for a toilet break every hours to start. How often should my puppy poop a day? Typically, most pups will go once or twice a day — although some may go four or more times! How many hours should a German Shepherd puppy sleep? On average, a German Shepherd puppy will sleep for 18 hours a day. Some pups sleep longer than others but they usually sleep between 15 and 20 hours in a hour period. As puppies get older, they sleep less. The average 4-month-old puppy sleeps a little over 11 hours a day. Should I sleep with my German Shepherd puppy? You should not sleep with your German Shepherd puppy during the first few months home. Yet you can let your pup sleep beside you in a crate or a dog bed. Until they are completely up, they flop around, go up and down. You can help your puppy to strengthen her ear muscle by whistling and making funny noises that perk up her ears. When do German Shepherds start teething? Starting at 4 months old, German Shepherds will begin to lose their puppy teeth. But some puppies start losing their teeth earlier or later. You may discover a discarded tooth on the floor. Or you may see a few drops of blood on her chew toy. And it is not uncommon for a puppy to swallow her tooth, which is perfectly normal. When do German Shepherds get all their adult teeth? An adult German Shepherd should have 42 adult teeth. The small incisors in front usually come in first, followed by the big canines, the premolars and the molars. All adult teeth should be in place around months old. Puppies use their mouth to explore their environment, so nipping is very common. This behavior, called teething, can last until the puppy is 6 months old when all her adult teeth have started showing. German Shepherds grew into their full size between 18 months to 2 years old. But they are not considered adult dogs until they reach the age of 3 years old. If your pup is still young, one of the most effective ways to calm her down is to give her regular mental and physical exercise. The rule of thumb is that you should give a puppy 5 minutes of exercise for every month old they are. For example, a 4-month-old puppy would need 20 minutes of exercise. When do German Shepherds get their full coat? She will start the coat change on her face first. Then her fluffy puppy coat will be replaced by the smoother adult coat down her back, towards to trail and gradually down her sides. When do German Shepherds start shedding? While their shedding is especially intense during the spring and fall, they lose their undercoat during the rest of the year. Other Than Vacuuming When should I bring my puppy for the first vet visit? You should bring your new puppy to see a veterinarian no later than 2 days after coming home. Some breeders require this within 48 hours as included in their sales contract. It is very important for your vet to examine your puppy to look for signs of disease. When should a German Shepherd puppy get her vaccination? Your German Shepherd puppy is recommended to get her first vaccination distemper and parvovirus between weeks of age. Here are the recommended vaccinations from AKC for your reference: Some dogs do not need every vaccine. You should always discuss it with your vet. When should my German Shepherd puppy be wormed? A German Shepherd puppy should be wormed for the first time at 2 weeks of age, then at 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 weeks old fortnightly until 12 weeks of age. After this, they can be wormed monthly until they are 12 months old. When do female German Shepherds go into the first heat? Female German Shepherds started their first heat as early as 7 months old, but this may vary from dog to dog. During that time, they may begin mounting other dogs or could become touchy or grumpy. There will be discharge and many owners use feminine pads and a diaper-type arrangement to keep the house clean. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior AVSAB recommends that pet guardians begin taking puppies on walks and public outings as early as one week after their first round of vaccinations, at about 7 weeks old. Instead of going for a marathon for the first time, it is advised to build up the distance with your GSD with time. Remember dogs cannot sweat like humans to reduce their body temperature. When can I walk my German Shepherd without a leash? Never let your dog go off-leash where there might be traffic or where he could injure himself. PART V German Shepherd puppy socialization guide Socialization helps them learn what to expect from the world around them and gives them the tools they need to navigate it as they get older. This includes new people, dogs, and animals, learning how to interact with new environments, and being exposed to a wide variety of sounds, smells, and sights. Socialization is especially important in German Shepherds starting from as early as 8 weeks old. This is because this breed is hard-wired to be protective of their owners as well as their property. Failing to socialize can make the dog become aloof to strangers. Other common signs of unsocialized in dogs include: Fearfulness or skittishness around unfamiliar people or animals Aggression towards other dogs or people Lack of confidence in new or unfamiliar situations Difficulty with basic training commands Inability to handle being handled or touched Puppies that are well-socialized are more likely to be healthy, obedient pets that make great additions to any household. They are intelligent dogs that can be challenging to train for first-time owners. However, with the right mindset, you can train your German Shepherd to become an obedient and well-behaved canine citizen in no time. At what age should I begin training my puppy? What should I teach my puppy first? Is it ok to crate my pup overnight? What are the basic commands every puppy must learn? How to motivate my puppy? Last but not least, we have compiled an easy-to-follow training guide. This training guide is our best effort in compiling a collection of training resources for any new GSD owner to kick-start training a new puppy — without wasting your time searching forever online. Each part is only one page long with at least one video for a demonstration. Follow these steps to ensure your new GSD has the best chance for success in their new furever home!! DO take your dog straight home. Walk him around in the front yard, inside, and in the backyard - on leash, and let him smell his new lodgings. Take him to the potty area, praise for pottying outside - correct for trying to potty inside. Obedience and structure begins immediately. DO start a schedule immediately when you bring your new dog home. If you are going to be off for two days to spend time with the dog, but then will have to go to work for 8 hours, then start the "soon to be schedule" during your days off. Do put your dog in a crate or the enclosed and safe area chosen. Do leave the house, even for a short errand, to show him that you will be back. DO respect your dog's space. Give him time to adjust to you, and your family, by allowing him to solicit attention and interaction. If he goes to lay down for some alone time, respect that. DO ask your dog to do something for reward and affection. Then you can praise that behavior, and start a relationship built on him doing things for your affection. You have just adopted a working breed dog - so let him do his job! DO monitor all the dog's interactions with the other dogs in the house, and of course any children in the house. Do not allow your new dog to bully or boss the existing dogs in your home. DO remember that for a dog the most loving thing you can do is provide structure and rules he can understand. For a dog, learning consistent rules that he is able to follow gives a sense of control and builds confidence. Once you have gotten to know each other and your dog has confidence in you as a good leader you will be able to show your affection in other ways and the dog will return it. Dogs are love machines, but remember that dogs are also individuals. Some dogs like being hugged. Some dislike it and prefer butt scratches or tummy rubs. Get to know your dog, pay attention and learn to read your dog. Both your lives will be better for it. We are here to answer any questions you may have. Please use us as your best resource. Between our Board members alone - we have over years of experience with this breed - there is nothing we have not seen or heard! Or email your questions directly to the contact who facilitated your adoption. DO NOT take your dog to the pet store to shop for a new toy. This dog does not know who you are, and has no reason to trust you and look to you for guidance. If the dog gets uncomfortable or stressed out, the only being he can rely on is himself - and he only has teeth to protect himself. He is not used to your touch, and has never been to that place before, so between the stress of that and you physically man handling him, he may get defensive and have to protect himself. DO NOT invite all your friends over to meet your dog. Remember - this is his first time coming into your home. He is not used to the way you live, or how you talk, or walk or the schedule of your day. He has no idea what to expect. DO NOT think that just because you can take a bone out of his mouth, means your neighbor can do it or should ever be allowed to do it. Use caution - get to know this dog, the good - and the bad! DO NOT take him for a big outing. You do not know what to expect from your dog. What if he is extremely terrified of purple cars? And a purple car drives by while a child is petting him and he reacts? What if he was attacked by a yellow dog wearing a coat, and your favorite neighbor comes over with his Poodle in his new sweater? This is then your fault - not the dog's. DO NOT hug and kiss your dog and lay on him. He is NOT the dog you had for ten years that just died that you did that to. He never will be that dog. You decided to save a life - and the dog you adopted has his own personality that you will need to learn about. If you get snapped at or bitten because you pushed the dog past his comfort level and decided that he should allow you to hug him and lay on him, then you could ruin any chances for this dog to have a great new life. Always keep in mind this dog has not had the advantage of one loving home all his life. He needs your guidance and protection. He needs time to accept you, you family, and your lifestyle. Time does not mean hours or even days but weeks and perhaps months. Most rescuers find that dogs do not "blossom" into their true selves in a new home until days. DO NOT physically correct your new dog in a threatening manner. He will only see it as you being an unstable and unreliable leader that resorts to physical violence and he will protect himself from what he sees as as threat. He has teeth, you have thumbs - you will win and he will lose, really lose. Amazon will donate 0. Checklist Dog Crate Getting a crate for your German Shepherd puppy is quite crucial for the following reasons: Allows the puppy to feel secure Speeds up potty training Keeps the puppy safe by controlling his environment Conditions your dog should you need to travel and use a travel crate Some people erroneously feel guilty for crating their pup. However, dogs need structure, especially when bred from work-driven breeds like German Shepherds. A dog crate provides a sense of security by reducing the space around the pet. A room might be small enough for us, but placing the puppy in it will make him feel like he is in a large vacant warehouse. The necessity of getting a dog crate brings up the question of size. What size crate is best for a new GSD puppy? Read my post on the recommended German Shepherd crate size to find out the best size to buy and why. Opt for the size inch variety. You can move the divider to make more room as your puppy grows. I draped a dark-colored blanket over the top to make it more den-like. She was around three years old when I finally got rid of it, but some dogs enjoy them for life. As German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia, arthritis, and other joint issues, you should invest in a good crate pad. Dog Bed You might think getting a crate is the same as getting a bed. Some crates come with a matt or pad disguised as a puppy bed. Since German Shepherds are big dogs and do not take much time to grow to their full size, you will need an orthopedic dog bed to support their weight and protect their joints. My post on the best orthopedic dog beds for German Shepherds elaborates on the pros and cons of different dog beds. The gist is that you need a bed to prevent joint pain that bigger dogs experience. German Shepherds are prone to arthritis, and though a genetic element plays a role, bad crating practices can accelerate such problems. I chose the Big Barker because of the scientific evidence that it improves joint pain and stiffness in arthritic dogs, enhancing their quality of life. This means a lot to me as my German Shepherd was diagnosed with spinal osteoarthritis at only six years old, but it helps knowing she sleeps comfortably. I have to admit — I was also attracted to their year no-flatten guarantee. You can check out my full review of the Big Barker here. Novice dog masters also make things difficult through a combination of poor choices. Then they make the situation worse by opting for a collar and using tugging as a means of discipline. This is cruel to the dog and teaches him nothing. It is a front-clip harness, meaning you lead your pup from the front, which gives greater control and steering, making it impossible for your dog to pull. A fellow dog owner designed it, and it has all the love and care one would expect from an owner who is solving a problem he has previously faced — a dog that pulled. You can also learn more about my pick of the best no-pull harnesses for German Shepherds in this article. Toys German Shepherds are full of energy, which means they have to be surrounded by things that can exhaust their excess vitality, such as a range of chew toys, tug toys, and puzzle toys. These will stimulate his teeth, muscles, and mind, respectively. Toys help your new German Shepherd develop and stay entertained. You can also use toys to train a German Shepherd to find things and track, but that comes later. For now, you must make sure you get him a large selection of puppy toys. Your new best friend needs different exercise routines and changes in the environment, both of which can be normalized via travel. A car restraint allows you to secure your German Shepherd puppy in a car seat safely. Using a dog crate as recommended above will make it easy to communicate that car rides are okay. I like the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel because it comes in various sizes, and for the first few months, you might prefer a smaller crate. This model is made from premium plastic, does not require any tools to set it up, and has lots of vents to keep your pup well-ventilated. Poo Bags Your new German Shepherd puppy is going to be the cutest thing on earth up until he has to poop. At that time, how much you like having a GSD will be strongly correlated with how close you are to a poo bag. Regardless of whether you buy a pack of poop bags or accumulate enough disposable bags to cover a month of dog poop, you need to have something to carry dog waste. Remember, a puppy poops two to four times a day. Amazon Basics Unscented Dog Poop Bags are among the most affordable products in the category, with the bags supply being the most economical. These bags are 9 inches x 13 inches, which is a much more efficient size than the standard disposable bag. You might not need this size at first, but trust me; they are the best for an adult German Shepherd. Dog Shampoo You must get dry shampoo for your dog because German Shepherds do not need to bathe more than a few times a year. In other words, your new puppy is half a dozen baths away from adulthood. In the meantime, something is required to keep him clean, right? Tropiclean Waterless Shampoo for Pets is a high-quality, low-priced option made from natural ingredients like plum, oatmeal, and cucumber. It is backed by a market leader in natural wellness and has accumulated over 4, positive reviews and ratings on Amazon. Dog Food Food, water, and shelter are some of the basic needs of all mammals. Dogs are no exception, especially when they are bred under human supervision. Therefore, getting dog food is one of the most important prerequisites for bringing home a new German Shepherd. After that, just ensure you choose a large breed food. Bringing home a new pet is a joyful experience. You might find yourself constantly staring at the beautiful yet timid puppy, and it will take a couple of weeks for the puppy to feel at home. Until then, the dog will be open to cuddles and start interacting with the person who feeds him and plays with him. Make sure he spends time inside the crate as well as outside it. The dog may seem shy and aloof for the bulk of the first week, with the first day being his most seemingly introverted one. The dog will miss his pack and call out for them with whining or whimpering sounds or even barking. You should make sure he feels safe and secure and only comfort him through the night when you take him for a toilet break. Your German Shepherd puppy will need comfort, and you can do a few things to help him feel better. Comfort the pup to make him feel secure. Feed the puppy and make sure he is warm. Turn the lights off and make sure he gets enough sleep. Your new German Shepherd needs to get used to a schedule, work on independence, and see you as the leading figure. One of the differences you will notice when your puppy is freshly released from the breeder is his excessive appetite for sleep. Some might want the puppy to wake up to cuddle. Others will wonder if it is healthy for the puppy to sleep so much. In general, a German Shepherd puppy should sleep 8 hours at night and hours during the day. Though, the dog should not be forced to fit a schedule and must be left to determine how he divides his hours of sleep in the first few weeks of adoption. Final Thoughts The arrival of a new German Shepherd puppy can be an exciting time, but excitement can also inspire nervousness. The puppy will feel less overwhelmed and scared after the first 3 days and will further settle during the first 3 weeks. This is the time to have a good German Shepherd puppy training schedule so you know what to teach and when. Related Posts You May Like:. Join and learn directly from Nadelhaus founder Traci Needles, who has over 25 years of experience breeding and training German Shepherds. Over 50 videos on the following topics covering German Shepherd puppies, housebreaking, crate training, obedience, feeding, grooming, wellness, and much more. New videos to be added every month. The breeder will also inform you of additional vaccinations you will need to schedule with your veterinarian as your puppy grows. Traveling Home With Your New Puppy On the day you pick up your new German Shepherd puppy from our facility, bring a small crate for the puppy to travel home in. We sell Puppy Packs at our facility which include a dog crate and can have one ready for you if you wish to purchase one. Otherwise, if you plan to hold your puppy in your lap on your drive home, bring a few small towels to place on your lap for the puppy. We highly recommend that you DO NOT stop at rest stops, dog parks, or parks to let your puppy go potty. Your puppy will not have received all of its parvovirus shots yet, so exposing your puppy to areas where other dogs have been increases the risk of your puppy contracting parvo. Instead we recommend that you find places that have concrete or hard surfaces like a paved parking lot. In the summertime, be conscious of the surface your puppy is walking on. At Home Care For Your New Puppy The first 24 to 36 hours in your new home is an acclimation period for your puppy to get settled in your home. It is common for your German Shepherd puppy to have diarrhea or loose stool the first week it is in your new home. It is acclimating to a new world and a different schedule. Be very mindful about what kind of dog treats and toys you supply the puppy to chew on. These are all edible things that can cause loose stool and diarrhea. These are also additional calories that puppies will eat before they eat a meal. During their acclimation to your new homes, we recommend you keep treats and cookies to a minimum. These are too rich and too hard on their systems. Wait at least 24 hours before giving your puppy a bath. You are more than welcome to keep in touch with us during this time and ask questions via email or text. The breeder will review the amount of food and schedule with you when you pick up your puppy. If your puppy has a weak appetite during the acclimation period you can add boiled boneless chicken and cooked white rice to its meals. Or you can add canned food to its meal to entice its appetite. Discard any uneaten food after each meal. Ensure your puppy has access to fresh, clean water during the day. If you are house breaking your puppy, remove access to water at least 4 hours prior to bed time. Diarrhea in very young puppies during their first weeks in their new environment is not uncommon. Here's why: Stress and Adaptation: The transition from their birthplace to a new home is a significant change for a young puppy. The stress of leaving their mother and littermates, coupled with adapting to a new diet and environment, can lead to gastrointestinal upset. Dietary Changes: Puppies might experience a sudden switch in their diet when they move to their new home. This shift in nutrition, even if well-intentioned, can disrupt their delicate digestive systems and result in diarrhea. Microbial Adjustment: The puppy's gut is in the process of developing a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria. Stress and changes in diet can temporarily affect this delicate balance, leading to digestive disturbances like diarrhea. This adjustment period is natural as the puppy's gut adapts to new microorganisms in their surroundings. While occasional mild diarrhea can be expected, it's important to monitor your puppy's condition. Why young puppies get diarrhea and how to treat it Introducing Your Puppy To Other Pets Gradual Introduction: Begin with neutral territory, not in the home of the adult dog, where both dogs can meet on leashes. Increase the time and frequency of their interactions slowly and under supervision. Supervised Interaction: After bringing the puppy home, closely supervise their interactions. Start with separate spaces and controlled play sessions, intervening if tensions arise. Ensure each dog has a safe space to retreat to. Patience and Adaptation: Understand that dogs have unique personalities. Be patient as they adjust to each other. Gradually extend their time together while monitoring their behavior and providing guidance as needed. Introducing a puppy to an adult dog watch even more videos on how to care for your german shepherd puppy with a learning center subscription.

Heat and Cold Intolerance Due to their brachycephalic nature, Frenchies often struggle to regulate their body temperature. For example, it will take a Frenchie much longer to cool down after running around when compared to other non-brachycephalic not flat-faced breeds. Keeping your Frenchie cool You can accommodate for them by having plenty of water, a not-too-hot area, and knowing when enough is enough. Lots of Shedding It surprises me how much my Frenchie sheds especially as she has such a short coat! I have to constantly de-shed her coat using a tool like the Furminator unless I want to walk around covered in dog hair. If you suffer from dog allergies , a French Bulldog might not be for you. Frenchies are not a hypoallergenic breed. Pulling on the leash Frenchies are notorious for pulling on their leashes. Your living room should be enough for them! Are Frenchies good around children? Yes, Frenchies are a great breed for children! Are French Bulldogs smart? Are French Bulldogs Strong? Relative to their size, Frenchies are pretty strong dogs. They have powerful jaws and a muscular body that makes them rip through toys like nothing. Note: compared to larger powerful dogs like the Rottweiler, Pitbull, or Mastiff, Frenchies would not be considered strong. Are French Bulldogs good pets? Are French Bulldogs loyal? Are French Bulldogs friendly? Yes, Frenchies are one of the most friendly dog breeds you could find. Are Frenchies hard to take care of? Why do people like French Bulldogs? Are French Bulldogs cuddly? They love snuggling up right next to you and leaving you barely any room for yourself. Posted on. Updated on 28 June The French Bulldog is a one-of-a-kind dog breed. These small dogs are easily identifiable thanks to their big smiles, large bat ears and heavy wrinkles. Dubbed Frenchies, these small dogs have proven popular with dog lovers in some of the biggest cities in the world. The French Bulldog can make a wonderful canine companion thanks to their affectionate, charming and loyal personalities. The AKC lists the following for temperament in the Frenchie breed standard. Well behaved, adaptable, and comfortable companions with an affectionate nature and even disposition; generally active, alert, and playful, but not unduly boisterous. Frenchies tend to be minimal barkers, although this can vary from French Bulldog to French Bulldog. These small dogs are quick to pick up training, learn new commands and new tricks. The AKC recommend taking your Frenchie puppy to socialization and puppy training at the earliest possible opportunity. Couch potatoes You may have seen some memes on the internet likening French Bulldogs to a loaf of bread or a potato. They really are couch potatoes! Wag Walking recommend around 30 minutes of activity a day for the breed. French Bulldogs will need some daily exercise to provide mental and physical stimulation as well as to help your Frenchie keep off weight. The AKC write on their website: A short walk or outdoor play session with their owner each day should provide enough exercise to keep the French Bulldog in shape. Good with children The AKC shine a light on their excellent reputation in a family setting with children. The organization give the Frenchie breed a five-star rating for their ability to be around younger members of the family. Having said that, you should never leave your French Bulldog alone and unsupervised with a child just like with any dog breed. Easy to groom Unlike some of the Doodle hybrids, the French Bulldog breed are relatively low maintenance where grooming is concerned. The AKC suggest a weekly brush to get rid of dead hair and debris. Wag Walking had a word of warning for Frenchie owners living in apartments. If you and your dog are apartment dwellers, outdoor diversions are still a must; a quick visit to the local dog run will go a long way. Unfortunately these charming canines are prone to a host of issues. The French Bulldog Club of America suggest health testing for hip dysplasia, eye examination, patellar laxation, congenital cardiac disease, autoimmune thyroiditis and juvenile cataracts. They can be extremely sensitive to anesthesia. The AKC add that skin allergies and autoimmune skin disorder a pose a problem. Sensitive tummies French Bulldogs can suffer from sensitive stomachs for a variety of difference reasons. Some Frenchies can have a genetic predisposition to food allergies which can cause an upset tummy. You may want to consider a dog allergy test too. The AKC had a stark warning for Frenchie owners where diet is concerned. If you choose to give your dog treats, do so in moderation. Give table scraps sparingly, if at all, especially avoiding cooked bones and foods high in fat. Separation anxiety As a popular companion dog breed, some French Bulldogs can be prone to separation anxiety. However, it must be said that Frenchies are no more susceptible to this chronic canine condition than any other dog irrespective of breed or mix. Separation anxiety occurs when a dog owners is about to leave the home or has left the home. Some of the symptoms include barking, howling, chewing, digging or even defecating inside the home. Price French Bulldogs are one of the most expensive dog breeds in the world. High maintenance These diminutive little dogs can be high maintenance and stubborn. They can be the classic velcro dog, acting as your shadow throughout the day. French Bulldogs may need help getting on and off furniture, require supervision when exercising considering their breathing problems and can be fussy at mealtime. Temperature French Bulldogs can be extremely sensitive to temperature. They should never be allowed to partake in strenuous exercise during hot or humid weather given their breathing difficulties. Pros of Owning A French Bulldog The French Bulldog sports bat-like ears , wide eyes, and a short, stocky stature that makes pet owners fall in love with their overall cuteness. However, Frenchies have more to offer potential pet owners than just their looks. From their overall temperament to their adaptability, these dogs have many pros that pet owners will enjoy. These loving dogs are usually well-behaved around other animals and visitors, often looking for an open lap to cuddle on. These dogs have an even balance between lounging around and enjoying playful interaction with their family members. Low Maintenance Grooming Unlike many breeds, the Frenchie features a short, silky coat that requires minimal grooming to keep their coat healthy. A quick brush helps remove loose hair and distribute natural oils evenly across the coat, maintaining its natural shine. Since they have a shorter coat, Frenchies tend to shed less than breeds with longer hair and brushing them regularly helps decrease the amount of hair shed. They prefer to snuggle with their owner or relax on the couch, making a brisk walk once or twice a day sufficient enough to keep them healthy. You can also play a game of fetch a couple of times per week for exercise as Frenchies love to chase balls and play with toys. Cons of Owning A French Bulldog Aside from the long list of positive attributes a French Bulldog offers, they do have some disadvantages that could turn potential pet owners away. Health Complications One of the biggest downfalls to owning a French Bulldog revolves around their health. Like other flat-faced breeds, their short snout makes them prone to breathing issues and unable to cool themselves down during hot or humid temperatures. In addition, Frenchies are known to suffer from several eye conditions including cherry eye, entropion, and juvenile cataracts and auto-immune disorders. Some Frenchies develop skin allergies , while others develop food allergies that require them to need a special, more expensive brand of dog food. Drooling Many different breeds of dog have a tendency to drool, the Frenchie is no exception. Having a short snout and flat-face makes it hard for them to cool down, the drooling seen in Frenchies is their way of lowering their body temperature when they overheat. Plus, Frenchies have fat, loose lips that make them prone to drooling and slopping water on the floor after getting a drink. However, you should also consider the cost of purchasing food, vaccinations, grooming supplies, and the cost of veterinary care if your Frenchie suffers from any type of health condition. This can make it hard to teach them basic commands, potty training , or leash training. Pet owners will need to use patience and persistence to properly train their dog or seek help from a professional trainer. Should You Get a French Bulldog? However, with proper care and some prevention measures, the pros of owning such an adoring breed outweigh the cons. Alert Athletic If you want a companion to join you on your adventures, you will love having a Frenchie. They Have Minimal Grooming Requirements Many dogs need a lot of grooming, from clipping to brushing and bathing. However, Frenchies are low maintenance. If you bathe your dog once a week, it will be good to go. If you want to cut down on shedding, you can brush your Frenchie every week after you bathe it. You should also make sure that you trim its nails as needed. That is all you need to do to keep your Frenchie looking great. They Do Well in Different Housing Situations Some dogs need a house with a yard because they have a lot of energy and need to spend a lot of time outdoors. Frenchies can live anywhere. This makes them great apartment dogs. A small apartment has enough space for them because they will want to hang out with you. Of course, how well they are trained will depend on the effort you make, but once you get started, they catch on quickly. Part of the reason is that they are loving companions, and they take pride in making you happy. They Are Great with Senior Citizens If you are a senior or you have one living in your home, Frenchies are great pets. They are gentle and require less exercise than larger breeds. Frenchies are a good size for seniors. They love to go for walks, but they are easy to train. They love to cuddle while you read a book, and they are easy to take care of. They Are Laid Back Some people want a dog that can go places with them. They want to be able to take a dog on trips, hiking, or out to dinner in the city. Frenchies are laid back, and as long as they are with you, they are happy and comfortable. Some dogs get nervous outside of their surroundings. They might feel insecure, and they can get defensive and bark. Frenchies are happy and confident, and they are adaptable. You can take your Frenchie out anywhere with you. They Help You Meet New People Frenchies are such happy and adorable dogs that they always attract attention from other people when you are out in public. If you take your Frenchie to a park, you will be sure to meet people who want to say hi to your dog. They have wonderful ways of interacting with you on a daily basis. They will make adorable faces, bring you toys, and zip around the room when they are feeling energetic. If you want to smile every day, this is a great breed to bring home. French Bulldog Cons It is important to understand the cons of owning a Frenchie so that you know what you are getting into. No matter what type of dog you bring home, you need to have the time, energy, and financial resources to give them the best possible care. They Can Chew Your Things Most puppies are known for chewing anything they can get in their mouths when they are teething, and Frenchies are no exception. You will want to provide safe chew toys that your Frenchie can chew and spend time training it not to chew. Make sure that your shoes and other belongings are not accessible, and have the toys available when your dog is teething. They Snore a Lot Frenchies have a short snout, and they are a brachycephalic breed. This is true of any dog breed with a smushed face. They have narrow nostrils, and it is difficult for air to flow freely when they breathe. Nearly every French Bulldog will snort and snore. They do it both when they are asleep and when they are awake. Exercise can also make them snort loudly. However, be prepared for a noisy dog that snores at night. If you live near water or have a pool, you should consider this. You will want to have a lifejacket. They can grow depressed when they are lonely, and they simply need social interaction. You should think twice about getting this kind of dog if you are away from home most of the day. You should have a consistent schedule from the beginning. Make sure that you have regular times scheduled so that your Frenchie knows when to expect to go out. Learn how to recognize signs that your Frenchie needs to go out. If you notice your dog pacing around the room, whining, barking, standing and staring at you, or standing near the door, this could be a sign that your dog needs to go outside. Make sure that you have a reward system to reinforce that they did a great thing by going potty outside. They Can Drool Some dogs drool more than others, and Frenchies fall into this category. They will drool after drinking their water, or they can drool after they exercise. Be prepared for drooling if you choose this breed. They Shed Frenchies are not hypoallergenic, and they can shed quite a bit. You can reduce this by bathing and brushing your dog every week, but they will still shed some hair. If you have allergies, you need to have a plan in place to minimize the shedding. They Can Be Victims of Irresponsible Breeding As is the case with many popular dog breeds, Frenchies can be the victims of irresponsible breeding. Good breeders have their dogs tested to make sure that they do not breed dogs with genetic problems. However, irresponsible breeders breed anything to make money. You need to pay attention to potential health issues that come from irresponsible breeding. You should be aware of common health problems that they can develop. This way, you will be able to look for signs of these problems and get your dog the care it needs. They Can Be Expensive Frenchies are popular, and if you buy one from a reputable breeder, you can pay thousands of dollars. You will need to consider the cost of buying a quality dog food, toys, and routine vet care. In addition, if your Frenchie gets sick, you will need to be prepared to pay for treatment. They Can Be Stubborn Although Frenchies are loving, loyal, and wonderful companions, they can be stubborn at times. You need to be patient with them and avoid having a battle of the wills. This is something to be aware of when you decide to bring a French Bulldog home. They Can Suffer in the Heat French Bulldogs are not meant to live outdoors as they were bred to be companions. Final Thoughts People love French Bulldogs, and for good reasons. These friendly dogs are made to be companions and easily become part of your family. If you are considering a French Bulldog as an addition to your family, be sure to familiarize yourself with the pros and cons of owning a French Bulldog. You can make an informed decision and be sure that you can give your new dog everything it needs. Related Content. Of course, most dog breeds are loyal and make good companions, but a Frenchie will go the extra mile to ensure they can be near you. If you show them affection, they will certainly appreciate and reciprocate it. Many dog breeds like to roam around in the dirt, dig, and eat questionable things. In contrast, Frenchies are not so adventurous. This can be overwhelming for dog owners because keeping up with lively furry friends takes emotional and physical energy. Whether you live alone, with young children, or with a partner, a French Bulldog will settle in with no issues. On top of that, their small size makes them excellent choices for those who live in small homes or apartments. French Bulldogs Are Generally Calm and Quiet French Bulldogs are known for their docile temperament because they are always quiet and calm, even on walks or around many people. As long as you feed and care for them effectively, they should remain relatively quiet throughout the day and night. This can help you make a careful decision. Be sure to compare all pros and cons to decide whether or not this breed is the right choice for you: Frenchies Often Have Health Issues and Low Life Expectancy Unfortunately, like many other purebreds, French Bulldogs have specific health issues that cannot be ignored. According to a study by BioMed Central , otitis externa, diarrhea, and conjunctivitis were the most common issues found in French Bulldogs. Otitis externa is a condition that affects the ears, and it can be rather uncomfortable for dogs. It causes swelling, redness, and foul odors. Other conditions that affect French Bulldogs include: Breathing issues. Due to their flat faces, French Bulldogs—and other breeds, like Pugs—face breathing difficulties as they age. It can also result in loud breathing and snoring, which may keep you awake at night if the dog sleeps in your bedroom. Skin problems. Unfortunately, French Bulldogs are prone to allergies ; some of the main symptoms include skin rashes. The coat may also become dry and irritated. Eye infections and problems. They are also prone to cataracts , which are often hereditary. Herniated discs. Since some health conditions in French Bulldogs are hereditary i. A recent study by the Royal Veterinary College analyzed 30, dogs that died between January and July to determine which breeds have the longest and shortest lifespans. Analysts found the overall average life expectancy to be .But French Bulldogs have an average of just 4. I think it calls on all potential owners to stop and think before buying a Frenchie. Frenchies find it hard to float in water because their bodies are strong and heavy, so keeping them in the water for too long makes them more likely to lose energy and drown. If you have a swimming pool in your yard and are thinking of getting a French Bulldog, they should be supervised at all times when around the pool to minimize the chances of drowning. Placing fencing around the pool would also be a good idea for added safety. The exact amount of shedding varies from dog to dog, but weather and seasonal changes can greatly impact the shedding cycle. For example, French Bulldogs generally shed the most amount of fur during spring, as it helps prepare them for the warmer summer months. Having too much fur during the summer would cause them to become too warm, so it makes sense that shedding increases during this period. They also shed more in the fall, allowing them to grow a thicker, warmer coat to stay warm during the cold part of the year. As a result, you may notice hair around the home and on your clothing, which can quickly get messy. Frequent vacuuming is the best way to tackle dog hair, and you may need to vacuum more often than usual especially during spring when your Frenchie is most likely to shed. Frenchies Walk Very Slowly French Bulldogs can be fast walkers and might occasionally pull on the leash. Sometimes, you may even need to pull the leash to get them to walk with you. While this might not be an issue for some people, it can be annoying for others. For example, you might be in a hurry and need to complete a walk within 40 minutes. However, a slow-walking French Bulldog can increase the time it takes to finish the walk, turning a minute walk into a 1. Since older French Bulldogs spend much of their days lying around and relaxing, they may also gain weight and become unhealthy over time. As a result, demand is high, which drives up their cost. However, due to the demand and popularity of the breed, people are happy to pay such high prices. There are plenty of cheaper breeds to choose from, many of which are similar in size to a French Bulldog, so consider more affordable options if the four-digit range is too steep. Perhaps, you can find one at a rescue center or an animal shelter at your location. On top of the high initial cost, you must also factor in veterinary fees, insurance, and other essential costs. To learn more about the cost of dog food, check out this article, which discusses the different price points and more. However, plenty also breed dogs irresponsibly and in bad conditions. Since the Frenchie is such a popular breed, hundreds, if not thousands, of people nationwide breed these dogs, increasing the chance of irresponsible behaviors among breeders. Make sure to go with a reputable breeder who treats the dogs well and performs DNA tests to minimize any health issues that can be passed down. Before agreeing to purchase, look around the dog home to ensure everything is clean and above board. There are many health issues to consider before the selective breeding process, like dystocia , and many uneducated breeders simply ignore such issues or are unaware of their existence. Final Thoughts There are plenty of French Bulldog pros and cons to consider. After reading this article, you should be able to compare each pro and con to decide whether this breed is the right choice. Frenchies are generally excellent companions and require minimal grooming, but they also have different health issues that can decrease their quality of life. Consider all aspects before making a final decision. Related Posts You May Like:. This breed has surged in popularity over the last decade and with that has come a lot of irresponsible ownership. The bottom line is this; you need to make sure you understand the pros and cons of owning a French Bulldog before you buy. They are expensive to own, they can be high maintenance, but they will also bring a huge amount of joy and love into your life. Please Note: All the pros, cons, negatives, positives, downside and upsides I list here are based on personal experience of owning a Frenchie. I hope it helps you understand what you should know before owning a French Bulldog Owning a French Bulldog pros and cons French Bulldog: pros to ownership I am going to firstly list the positives and good reasons for owning a French Bulldog. Are good with kids Our son was around 3 years old when Claude first arrived as a puppy and they have grown up together to be the best of pals. Without doubt, French Bulldogs are one of the best breeds to own if you have young kids. They wrestle, play tug of war, go to the park, and adore each other. To find out more about how Frenchies like playing with kids, read my blog post about French Bulldogs and children. In other words, they will cheer people up and make people feel much better about themselves. They offer unconditional love, adore human companionship, and are often taken into hospitals, care homes, and schools. Are good for older people Which segues nicely onto the next pro for owning a French Bulldog; they are a great choice for older people and seniors. Reason being, they Frenchies require less exercise than bigger breeds, love to cuddle , and have been bred to offer more companionship than you could ever wish for. They are also small, so for the less mobile and more senior generation can be a great choice as a dog. Are local celebrities I never realized the impact owning a Frenchie would have until we had our first outdoor walk with Claude as a puppy. We get stopped all the time with people wanting to meet him! Claude is better known than my wife and I in our local village. Are natural entertainers French Bulldogs will make you laugh. As a breed they are absolute clowns and have lots of funny expressions, mannerisms, and traits that means there will never be a dull moment in your household. You have to see it to believe it, and when you do it will have you in stitches. Are chilled sometimes and adaptable One of the worries we had about owning a French Bulldog was how adaptable he would be to our lifestyle. This was one of the French Bulldog pros and cons we were most worried about, but our experience has been wholly positive. We take Claude everywhere with us, and he will just be chilled and adapt to his surroundings. In fact, just this weekend he came on an open top bus tour with us as you can see from the photo below. This is Claude on the bus on his way to a new and exciting walk. Are good with other pets Before we bought Claude as massive concern was how well he would adapt to our cat and vice versa. Overall, our experience of owning a cat and a Frenchie has been a positive one. They even sleep together in the same bed. The bottom line is this; our experience and that of Frenchie owners we know is that this breed tends to be very good with other pets. To find out how we introduced our Frenchie to our cat, read this blog post which has a video in it showing them playing together. Will sleep a lot You might consider this a negative trait, but for our family the fact that Claude the Frenchie sleeps a lot actually works in our favor. So why do we think sleeping is a pro? Well, it means that when he is awake, we can give him our full attention, wear him out, and then let him get back to sleep again. Love to play and have fun And talking of awake time, once your pup has his eyes open, he will love to play and have fun. They have become playmates, which has really helped us as a family with an only child. Just make sure that you have plenty of toys to keep your Frenchie entertained with. You can see some of the best on the market in my French Bulldog gear recommendations. Your Frenchie will love to play with you. Are part of an amazing community Once you own a Frenchie you will soon start to know other owners and almost become part of an exclusive club. The first time you meet another French Bulldog when walking yours you will see what I mean. Owning a Frenchie is almost like a badge of honor and places you in a very special community of dog lovers both offline and online. Are relatively easy to train Take this one with a pinch of salt, as how well your dog is trained will be down to the effort and time that you put in. It took us around a year to get Claude completely trained with recall, sit, and other commands, but once he was past the puppy stage, training did become a lot easier. At the time it was a challenge but looking back on it now it was actually relatively easy. I recommend puppy socialization classes and training classes though to make things smoother. Loyalty is a huge part of their genetic make-up. However, that can also prove to be not just a pro, but also a con as I will describe later in this guide regarding separation anxiety and being left alone. Claude likes to chill out with the whole family… including the cat! Are great for apartment living Due to their small stature and lack of needing intense exercise, Frenchies make great dogs for those that live in small apartments or flats. If this sounds like you please read my guide to French Bulldog apartment living which gives you the inside track on what to expect. Claude rarely barks, even when another dog is being aggressive towards him. In fact, the only time Claude will bark is if the doorbell goes or when he catches his reflection in a mirror. This is one of the factors that people often love about Frenchies and is a definite pro to ownership if a barking dog could be a problem in terms of where you live. Are very affectionate and cuddly Be prepared for this. But you need to give the affection back to keep your pup happy. To place this into perspective, when we first got our dog, our son was 3 years old. At that age he did tend to pull and prod our dog a lot, and not once did Claude ever react badly. I do believe this is a very common trait of Frenchies. They have been bred to be human companion dogs and that shines through in their lack of aggression. French Bulldogs: cons to ownership And now for the cons. There are plenty of reasons why you should not get a French Bulldog. The bottom line is that you need to be committed, have the money, patience, and time to give them the love and care that they need. From the cost of buying a puppy, possible C-sections , special food, and potential health issues and insurance, you will need a big wallet. This includes food, insurance and budgeting for any unexpected costs. Can be big chewers Assuming you get your Frenchie as a puppy, be prepared to place things in lock down when the teething starts. Even after teething they can still like a good chew. If your Frenchie is still chewing and being destructive as an adult it good even be the sign of a bigger health problem. To find out more about the teething timeline and what to expect read this guide. French Bulldog puppies will teeth up to 8 months old and will need something other than your shoes to chew on! Will fart a lot and it stinks! Their farts alone are a good enough reason to not get a Frenchie. Nobody can ever really prepare you for how bad their farts are. As a brachycephalic breed they have shortened snouts, the negative by-product being snoring check out why it happens. But the worst part? His butt. Are victims of irresponsible breeding Due to their increased popularity, there are irresponsible breeders out there looking to make a quick buck from a Frenchie sale. Frenchies have been bred and over-bred to achieve the look they have today. If you live anywhere near water that is higher than your Frenchies head, then this is a good enough reason to not get one. They can drown very easily so please be careful near water. Frenchies love to play but you need to be very careful near water as they are unable to swim un-aided. Are needy dogs In the positives of owning a Frenchie I spoke about the pros and cons where it related to their affection and loyalty. They will get depressed and possibly ill. I wrote a long guide which explains what signs you need to look out for if you suspect your Frenchie is depressed and sad. Are better in pairs This is why I believe two French Bulldogs are better than one. These social dogs will thrive off each other and will love the companionship of having a doggy friend. If you can afford a Frenchie, think about getting another dog too. A pair of Frenchies will help to stimulate each other and offer companionship. Can be hard to potty train In the pros section I mentioned that Frenchies can be relatively easy to train, but there was one aspect which took longer than the rest; potty training. I can only compare having a Frenchie puppy to having a human baby. You have to contend with a lot of mess, poop, and wee on the floor. It took us a long time to get this aspect cracked as Claude would wee on the floor even up to the age of around 9 months. I published a guide to potty training a Frenchie which will give you an idea on what to expect. Can eat their own poop Before we got Claude, I asked a friend of mine about the pros and cons to owning a French Bulldog. The first thing he said was the poop eating. I wrote a guide to why this happens with some tips on how to stop them doing it. Do shed a lot of hair French Bulldogs shed a lot of hair and like most dogs, are not hypoallergenic. If you suffer with allergies you might want to reconsider getting a Frenchie, as there will always be a lot of hair to deal with, particularly during the shedding parts of the year. To find out how much hair they shed, when it happens, and how you can reduce the problem, read this guide to French Bulldog shedding. In simple terms, you will have a lot of hair on your furniture and in your car. Suffer in the heat Frenchies cannot deal with heat. After just a few minutes of running around in the sun they will be exhausted to the point where they need to lie down in the shade to recover, and recovery can take up to 30 minutes. Thankfully he was ok, but over-heating is a big problem. You can read more in this guide which explains how you can stop your dog from over-heating. Love to dig holes Do you value your garden or back yard? If you do, you might need to Frenchie proof it. We had a problem with Claude where he was continually digging holes in our lawn. We actually had to build a fence and paving slabs are for him to keep in when un-attended. The reasons they like to dig are varied, so take a look at what the underlying digging issues could be. Are big droolers French Bulldogs also drool a lot. Most of the time this is nothing serious as simply happens after they eat or drink. He has these messy drool strings hanging from his mouth. We call them lip-hangers and need to clean them away with tissue — not a nice job! Needless to say, this can be part of their funny personality. But it can be frustrating if you need them to get off the couch or stop rolling around in mud when on a walk. I am not here to preach to you though, but please do your research into what health issues your Frenchie could end up having. Conclusion I hope this has given you a good idea of what to know about owning a French Bulldog, what to expect, and the pros and cons you need to consider. They come with their own unique challenges. To find out more and get answers to other Frenchie questions, use the search function at the top of the website. Why is my dog whining? They even make great companions for folks living in apartments or other small spaces. They are pet-friendly While all dogs are individuals, Frenchies tend to be outgoing and inquisitive creatures. They usually get along well with cats and other pet species, though a properly trained and socialized French bulldog will also typically get along with other dogs, no matter the size. Remember — training your dog to be a watchdog requires a lot of work for you both! Frenchies are Velcro dogs; all they want is to curl up beside their favorite people. Grooming is easy Frenchies are light shedders. Weekly brushings will help to remove any loose hair while promoting new hair growth and distributing skin oils throughout the coat. Yep — French bulldog grooming is that easy! As cute as it can be, having a short snout can restrict the passage of air to the lungs. If you go the adoption route, you can expect to pay more than for other rescues. These fees help defray the cost of medical expenses and the care of the dogs in their foster homes. They are prone to health problems According to PetMD , Frenchies are prone to major health problems, including brachycephalic syndrome, intervertebral disk disease, and hip dysplasia. A study of 2, Frenchies by the Royal Veterinary College revealed that .The most common health issues were ear infections, followed by diarrhea and conjunctivitis. The study revealed that when compared to other breeds, French bulldogs were particularly prone to skinfold dermatitis, cherry eye, and brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome. Many of these health issues can emerge as early as 2 to 3 years of age. So, if you add a Frenchie to your family, you need to be prepared financially and emotionally in the event of health issues. Frenchies can suffer from separation anxiety Unfortunately, the one trait that attracts people to Frenchies can also lead to serious behavior issues. These dogs crave affection and companionship. When left alone for too long they can become depressed and suffer from separation anxiety. Image used with permission by copyright holder If after doing research, you want to add a Frenchie to the family, the next step is where to find your dog. If you prefer to purchase a puppy from a breeder, choose wisely. According to a National Geographic article, in their quest to make the perfect French bulldog, irresponsible breeders ignore health issues, such as chronic respiratory disorders. The Humane Society of the United States offers helpful tips on how to find a responsible dog breeder. It will be worth the effort knowing that your new puppy was bred by someone who put his health and well-being above profits. Editors' Recommendations.

Long or medium, water resistant Coat Colors Bi-colored, range from black, cream, sable, black, and amber. Above all, know that these dogs are by no means small! In fact, they can grow to be quite large. This mix will grow to be somewhere in between how big its parents are. Male and female German Shepherds have a better big difference in height and weight. While males grow up to 24 and 26 inches cm , females get to be about 22 and 24 inches cm. As far as weight, males can be 65 to 90 pounds kg heavy while females are only between 50 to 70 pounds kg. The Golden Retriever looks a bit different. Again, there is a difference between the sexes. Females can grow as tall as .Males are inches 58 — 61 cm tall and pounds 29 — 34 kg heavy. But what does this mean for your Golden Shepherd? As mentioned above these dogs grow to 20 to 26 inches cm tall and 60 to 85 pounds 27 — 39 kg heavy. It really is just a guessing game with this breed. Hands down, they the best out of the best when it comes to guarding. Golden Retrievers are on the opposite end of the spectrum. They are very easy going, love all strangers, and are loyal to any family members. These dogs are social and beloved because of their awesome people pleasing skills. The Golden Retriever German Shepherd Mix could inherit any combination of these behaviors from their parents, just as the same as their appearance. Their cleverness makes training easy. Kids and Golden Shepherds get along great. Your dog will always be up for some fetch or tug-of-war. Since there is hunting blood in their veins, watch them around smaller animals. Or you might witness lots of chasing. Be on the Lookout for These Possible Health Problems source As mentioned in the first paragraph Golden Shepherds have a life expectancy of around years if they receive enough love and high-quality care. However, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers have numerous health issues that can pass down to their puppies. Work closely with your breeder to prevent this from happening to you. German Shepherd Health Risks These dogs have been bred for multiple centuries. Because of this, they run into many medical problems. However, here are the top three problems that you might run into. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia This is a pretty common disease for most, but unfortunately, the German Shepherd is more prone to it than others. In fact, 1 out of 5 German Shepherds are expected to have this. This could be blamed on their energetic personality and big stature. Regardless, hip and elbow dysplasia is when the hip or elbow joint frequently pops out of its socket. As you can expect, this can cause the bones to wear down over time and, eventually, cause lameness. Perianal Fistula In other words, doggy diarrhea. It can be particularly alarming as it is often accompanied with bloody poop. It all starts when the skin around the anus begins to gets infected. Osteoarthritis Or, when the joints begin to wear down after normal living. Most specifically for German Shepherds, it happens around the spine. If you take good care of your German Shepherd, as well as schedule regular vet visits to be proactive in their health, you can expect 11 happy years together. The most alarming of these is cancer. Aside from this, you can expect .Here are several of their other health problems: Atopic Dermatitis : Otherwise known as allergies! Most commonly, dogs can be allergic to pollen, animal dander, plants, insects, food, and medication. This breed is known to have lots of issues with this. Aortic Stenosis : This is a medical condition that affects the blood flow in the chambers of the heart. Eventually, this can thicken the heart walls and lead to serious heart issues and even failure. Just like with German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers are also prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Many do debates whether this is true. The unfortunate side of this is that examples have shown us over time they may change into something not as healthy. A great example of this is the English Bulldog. Yet, on the other hand, mixing combines the positive traits of two types while getting rid of the negative. It takes a lot of time and hard effort, but it can happen. Regardless of this debate, whether your pup is healthy comes down to the breeder you choose and the parents. But what should you specifically work on? Make sure to socialize your Golden Shepherd early in case they adopt the nervousness around strangers from their German Shepherds parents. Have visitors, other animals, and children over often. The more experience they have around strangers, the better. Plan for many daily walks. Because of this, a house with a yard is better. But an apartment can work if given enough daily exercise. Since German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are prone to having joint problems and your pup could inherit these issues, be cautious when exercising. As well, overeating can be a problem because extra weight increases the load on the joints. Make sure to use a brush that can reach both layers of the coat. Heading to the bathtub too often can damage their skin. As well, pay attention to how long their nails have grown and clip when necessary. Brush their teeth weekly to avoid the buildup of plaque and stinky kisses. And check their ears weekly for too much wax. This depends on where you buy from and the pedigree. The good news is that there are breeders everywhere! Also across Canada and the UK. As we mentioned before, do your research! Make sure anyone you purchase from is raising healthy and happy pups. Do a quick search in your area on sites like:. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Golden Shepherd Highlights Golden Shepherds are mixed breed dogs. The main colors of Golden Shepherds are black, tan, red, cream, and blue. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. While they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job. They shed quite a bit. The Golden Shepherd not only loves kids, they enjoy the commotion they bring with them. Though, as with all dogs, playtime with kids should always be supervised. Golden Shepherds have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one hour-long walk per day. Hiking and other adventurous activities are strongly recommended. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems that affect many purebreds as well as create an ultimate family companion and watchdog. They continued to create Golden Shepherds as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though Golden Shepherds got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the dog for you. Check your local shelters, look up Golden Shepherd rescues, or check with breed-specific German Shepherd and Golden Retriever rescues, as they sometimes help to re-home mixed breeds. That said, as a mix between German Shepherd and Golden Retriever parents, you can expect the Golden Shepherd to be on the large side. Most weigh in at 60 to 95 pounds and range in height from 20 to 27 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. Golden Shepherd Personality Golden Shepherds make excellent family companions and watchdogs. Protective in nature, they will alert when strangers approach. However, once they befriend you, you have a friend for life. These pups hail from a line of two working parents. Their Golden Shepherd parents regularly work as military, police, and guard dogs, while their Golden Retriever parents have jobs as hunting and guide dogs. Golden Shepherds like to work and need to have a job to do, whether big or small. Give them a sense of purpose, and this dog will earn their keep ten fold. They are highly trainable, and thrive on positive reinforcement. Do not leave them alone for long periods. They can easily become board, depressed, and frustrated, which will result in unwanted behaviors. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Golden Shepherds are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as this mixed breed is prone to tartar build-up. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility with its one-inch jumps. Crate and kennel training should start in puppyhood. Golden Shepherd Feeding An ideal Golden Shepherd diet should be formulated for a large breed with high energy. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. As with all dogs, the Golden Shepherd dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and will continue to change into their senior years. You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Golden Shepherd diet, as there is far too much variation among individual dogs—including weight, energy, and health—to make a specific recommendation. They usually have medium length, dense coats, and while they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job and bathing is recommended every few months with a mild shampoo. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Their double coats do shed quite a bit. You will definitely want a vacuum on hand. You will need it. Have you tried robot vacuums? See if the Eufy RoboVac is right for you! Their double coat gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather. Many of these dogs absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also helps to keep them cool during hot summer months. Keep in mind they are an indoor dog and need to live indoors with their family. Like all dogs, however, Golden Shepherds need to be trained how to behave around children and vice versa. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Learn more about this awesome breed by reading about their parent breeds the German Shepherd and Golden Retriever. Golden Shepherd Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Golden Shepherds because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or Golden Retriever breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Furthermore, since they have deep ears, these dogs accumulate ear wax quicker than the other dogs. These dogs need 45 — 90 minutes per day of exercise These activities also reduce the chances of having health issues in the future. This said trait may result in an unintentional aggressiveness to strangers. To fix this issue, these dogs should have proper training and enough socialization in their early years. Note sure the Golden Shepherd is right for you? Ever wonder what a Golden Retriever Corgi looks like? These dogs are very loyal to their owners and are also intelligent which prevent the dogs from causing trouble. They are generally patient, attentive, and eager to learn and work. They are an affectionate and a great companion 2. Guarding Ability Golden Retriever mixed with German Shepherd dogs are large and muscular dogs due to the genetics of the parent breed German Shepherd. These features allow you to have dogs that can protect you and the people around you. Environmental Adjustments With proper training, these dogs are remarkably adaptive. This characteristic gives you an easy time particularly if you move around frequently to regions with many changes in the weather and environment. So, If you want to travel with your pet, this breed is the one for you. Their body is longer than it is tall. Golden Retriever mixed with German Shepherd dogs weigh from 60 lbs to 80 lbs while their height can range from 20 inches to 25 inches. This breed has variations in coat types and colors. Their coats are commonly long, dense, thick and doubled; resulting in a higher chance of constant shedding. These energetic dogs like outdoor activities such as swimming, long walks, and jogging but you need to be wary of extreme heat because of their thick coats. Early socialization training for these dogs is valued. This breed tends to be reserved and nervous towards strangers. Nonetheless, they can learn to be friendly immediately by going out regularly. German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix dogs usually express extreme loyalty and a loving personality to their owner and the family they belong to. The German Shepherd mixed with Golden Retriever is not an official dog breed yet; however, the following organizations recognize them as a designer mixed-breed. A reliable breeder should provide you with valuable documents. If everything checks out, a contract that shows clear briefing of the conditions is essential. Doing research and exploring your community is the best way to find reliable breeders. Remember, adopting a dog will always cost less. Visit your local animal shelter to ask about the availability of this dog breed. Moreover, try looking into the private dog rescues as some dogs may be transported there. Grooming Your Golden Retriever German Shepherd German Shepherd mixed with Golden Retriever dogs require regular coat brushing because their coat tends to be tangled and matted together. Regular brushing promotes a shiny and healthy fur for this mixed breed. Here are some products that you might need for this pet. Pro Slicker Brush for Dogs and Cats This slicker brush either has a flat or curved head with lots of thin wire pins which help to untangle and shed loose fur. This mixed breed features a double-coat that requires constant brushing making this item a must-have for all dog owners. Dog nails can hurt other people or animals when they get playful. Sometimes, dogs snap their nails off unintentionally, and the pain can be excruciating for them. To use, gently hold their paws and snip off small bits of the toenails. Promptly discontinue if any bleeding occurs. Apart from the items suggested, bathing is one of the most important steps in pet care to remove unpleasant odors and dirt on their coat. When giving a bath, make use of dog shampoo to avoid accidental allergy attacks and fleas. This dog breed typically has large ears that can accumulate wax. Observe your dog for symptoms of ear problems; healthy dogs do not habitually bother their ears. Wax, dirt, and other elements may cause ear infections. For better cleaning and disinfection, use liquid ear cleaners and cotton balls. Golden Retriever mixed with German Shepherd dogs need regular trimming, so make it a habit to schedule appointments with your veterinary clinic at least once or twice a month. Make sure they get trimmed around the eye area for better vision , around the anus for hygiene , and the chin for easy eating. Mixed-breed dogs are ordinarily healthier than their parent breeds, yet this specific breed is more prone to certain health conditions than others. Most of these health problems are seen as the dog gets older. This breed enjoys being active and playing which can cause a harmful impact and damage on their bones and joints. Receiving an average level of activity would prevent them from having these problems. Here are some more health hazards that you need to be aware of: Allergies Both parent breeds are prone to allergies and German Shepherd Retriever Mixed dogs share this trait. Their common allergies mainly affect their skin and flea bites or certain foods typically cause these. Fleas are tiny parasites that dogs can accumulate from outdoors. You can prevent this by avoiding physical contact with environmental allergens. The symptoms include mouth or nose bleeding, blood in the urine, and excessive bleeding, and unfortunately, there is no cure yet. Joint Dysplasia In dogs with joint dysplasia, the joints fail to develop correctly, scraping and grinding upon each other instead of sliding smoothly. Bloating Bloating in humans and bloating in dogs are different. It is harmless in humans, however, in dogs it is deadly. Immediate treatment for bloat is needed. It would be best to take your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible because there is no first aid that you can do at home. Learning some first aids for this breed of dogs can also help. Awareness over these usual problems of the Golden Retriever crossed with German Shepherd breed will result to their proper care. Your furry friend should get the best, so pick their food wisely. You can find lots of options in the best dry dog food list. Whelps need energy to be active, which means lots of proteins too. Food that gives them everything their body needs is on the best puppy food brands list. Older canines have different requirements, so skim through the best senior dry dog food list. It will help them stay healthy and show off proudly. Steer clear of the worst dry dog food at all costs. You can also find some ideas on the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food lists, which may contain some food that your pooch will love. Because of their energetic personality, these dogs need a diet that can fulfill their nutrition needs. Dogs may be omnivores, but they highly rely on protein to survive. It is also the building block of their muscles. Although dogs love fat in their meals, it is necessary to maintain the amount of fat that you give them. Too much fat is harmful to their well-being and too little creates skin problems. Make sure that your dogs are hydrated, especially if you live in a hot place. Ingredients and supplements for joint and bone development are also needed to prevent possible injuries for this very active dog. Giving your dogs vegetables, fruits, and other minerals is proper for their growth. However, you need to be wary of the portions since it varies depending on their age and body size. Avoid products that contain these ingredients since they are not good sources of carbohydrates for dogs. The Golden Shepherd tends to be a friendly, energetic, and affectionate dog that is loyal to their family and tends to be protective of them. Although they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable organizations like the American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Breed Registry, and more. A Golden Shepherd tends to bring the all-around friendly personality of the Golden Retriever and the intelligence and devotion of the German Shepherd into one dog. They love their families and tend to get along with everyone including children. These dogs are not necessarily suspicious of strangers, but they are alert and will tend to bark if they see something they feel you need to know about. Golden Shepherds are moderately adaptable dogs. Because they are high-energy, they tend to do better in homes with yards where they can run. They can adapt to apartment living as long as plenty of time is dedicated to giving them the daily exercise they need. They tend to do well in most climates. But, as with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Because Golden Shepherds are devoted to their families and thrive on spending time with them, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. A mixed-breed dog can inherit the potential health issues common to one, both, or neither of their parent breeds. As a larger, barrel-chested dog breed, the Golden Shepherd, like their parent breeds, is also at a higher risk for bloat. The Golden Shepherd is a highly trainable dog breed. They are intelligent, eager to please, and pick up on things quickly. This makes them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Puppy training classes can still be a great idea because they offer opportunities to socialize a puppy while also strengthening your bond with them. The Golden Shepherd will have a thick double-coat that sheds moderately year-round and more heavily twice a year as seasons change. A quick daily brushing, especially during seasonal shedding sessions, will help remove loose fur to make your dog more comfortable and also help keep more fur contained to a brush instead of everywhere else. Bathing is on an occasional, as-needed basis. Monthly nail trims are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long or causing issues. Plus, if anything is starting to happen, you can get the vet before it gets more serious. Because many dog owners overlook this, gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. The Golden Shepherd comes from two high-energy dogs, so they require a lot of daily exercise to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime and time to run are the minimum. But, a Golden Shepherd will likely be up for more activity if you are. A trip to the dog park for some off-leash time, playing frisbee or chasing a ball, hiking, swimming, running, and more can all help this dog expend some extra energy. You want to keep their activity low-impact as they are still growing, but once they finish growing, try different activities to see what you both love doing together. You could even try training them for dog sports! A fully-grown Golden Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. A Golden Shepherd generally lives for years. Currently, we do not have any Golden Shepherd puppies available, but we can alert you when new Golden Shepherd puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address! Related Breeds. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Golden retrievers and German shepherds are two of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Both medium-to-large dogs that are highly intelligent, easy to please, and great with families, it was only a matter of time before someone created the golden shepherd by mixing these two breeds. But what can you expect if you decide to adopt one of these amazing dogs into your family? Read on as I take you through exactly what you can expect from a golden retriever-German shepherd mix, including their size, appearance, temperament, and the care they need to thrive. Is the golden shepherd the right dog for you? Learn more below! Essential Statistics Breed: Mix of golden retriever and German shepherd Height: 21 — 26 inches Coat Type: Medium-long high shedding coat Colors: Black, cream, white, gold, yellow, brown, chocolate, liver Lifespan: 7 — 12 year lifespan Temperament: Highly intelligent, easy to train, playful, friendly, does well with families Exercise: High energy and exercise needs History Of The Breed Golden retrievers were first bred in the United Kingdom to retrieve shot waterfowl. Their soft mouths allow them to retrieve ducks and other game without damaging them. As a highly intelligent breed that is eager to please and with a naturally good nature and understanding of how to act around children, goldens have been popular working dogs since the s, and you will often see them working in search and rescue and disability assistance. German shepherds , also known as Alsatians, were first bred in Germany just before the start of the 20th century as herding dogs. When natural sheep predators began to die out in Germany at the start of the 20th century, German shepherds were taught to do other kinds of work. While German shepherds are not an aggressive breed, they developed a bad reputation in the 20th century when the German Nazi army started using them as working dogs. The breed was also adopted by gangsters and bootleggers in the United States. Fortunately, today, their reputation is largely recuperated, and they are often seen working with police and in roles such as search and rescue. Golden shepherds were first bred around .The intention with this mixed breed was to create a dog with the courage, quickness, and alertness of the German shepherd but also with the good nature of the golden retriever, which is also intelligent, highly trainable, and easy to please. The results are excellent working dogs and family pets. Golden retrievers are usually 21 to 25 inches tall and will usually be the mother in a first generation golden shepherd coupling. They weigh 55 to 75 pounds. German shepherds are slightly larger, measuring 22 to 26 inches tall and weighing 50 to 90 pounds. As you would expect, their golden shepherd offspring measure 21 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 90 pounds on average. Both parent dog breeds have medium-to-long coats that are known to be high-shedding, so you can expect the same from a golden shepherd. Being a mixed breed, they can come in an extensive range of colors, including black, cream, white, gold, yellow, brown, chocolate, and liver, and they will often be bicolor. The color of their coat tends to be highly unpredictable in the first generation. Because they are high-shedding, they do need regular grooming, which means brushing at least once a week to keep shedding under control. Still, there is no escaping all that dog hair, and you will definitely need to invest in a good vacuum cleaner. The way their facial features will develop is less predictable, since they are still a new breed and breeders are still learning to control for desirable features. They can also either have the pointed ears of a German shepherd or the drooping ears of a golden retriever. Either way, they are sure to be a gorgeous pup! Golden Shepherd Temperament And Intelligence Golden retrievers are known for being playful and friendly dogs that love everyone they meet and therefore make terrible guard dogs. They are playful and loyal to the family with whom they have developed a bond. While they can be wary of strangers or anything that seems out of place, they are more likely to alert you with a bark than attack. You can expect a golden shepherd to be playful and friendly, but a little bit warier of strangers than your standard golden retriever. Both parent breeds are highly intelligent and also eager to please. German shepherds, in particular, are also independent thinkers and problem solvers. This means golden shepherds are easy to train, as they learn new commands quickly and enjoy the rewards that come with completing them, but they are also good at knowing what is required of them in new circumstances. Golden shepherds, like both of their parent breeds, are incredibly loyal and will want to be around their people all the time, whether that is out and about, or curled up on the couch at home. This can lead to frustration and destructive behavior. They are naturally protective of children, and despite being large breed dogs, they are very aware of their own size and strength and know how to play gently with children. However, it could be a struggle to have this breed with very young children, as they have lots of playful energy, and this can be overwhelming for smaller folks. Golden Shepherd Energy And Exercise Golden shepherds, like both their parent breeds, are high-energy dogs. Additionally, golden shepherds need at least an hour of fairly intense exercise each day. This means running around the dog park and sniffing everything, playing catch, and going for a swim rather than just a casual walk. They should be getting less exercise as puppies, despite their apparent energy, as too much exercise can undermine their proper development. While they are growing, they should have about five minutes of exercise per day per month of age. So at four months, they need 20 minutes of exercise each day, and at six months, they need half an hour. As adult dogs, they will love joining you on longer adventures, such as hikes and boat trips and will have no problem keeping up. Bear in mind that, while they are natural swimmers, if you go out on a boat, they should be wearing a flotation vest. As well as formal exercise, they need to be able to move around and play throughout the day, and a decent-sized backyard is the best thing for this. Golden Shepherd Health Concerns Of course, when you adopt a dog into your family, you will want to closely monitor and care for their health. This means ensuring they are vaccinated for all the most transmissible canine diseases, such as Parvo , protection against fleas and ticks , and proper dental care, which ideally means daily brushing. But certain dog breeds are also more susceptible to certain health conditions than others. With mixed breeds, they could be less susceptible to some of the most common ailments of their parent breeds, or they could be more susceptible to certain conditions. The best thing to do is inform yourself about the common health issues for both parent breeds and monitor your puppy for all of them. This means for golden shepherds, you will want to be on the lookout for: Elbow and hip dysplasia, common in both parent breeds Eye conditions, common in both parent breeds Bloating gastric dilation volvulus , common in both parent breeds Epilepsy, common in German shepherds Allergies, common in golden retrievers Hypothyroidism, common in golden retrievers Degenerative myelopathy hemangiosarcoma, common in German shepherds Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, common in German shepherds Of course, just because some dog breeds are more susceptible to these conditions does not mean they will get any of them, and your golden shepherd could pass their entire 7-toyear lifespan without being affected by any of these. But if you know the symptoms, you can catch any problems early and ensure a better quality of life for your dog. One other health concern with both the parent breeds of golden shepherds is obesity. They love their food, and we love to reward them with delicious treats. Remember, every treat you give them also contains calories! Also, never feed them off your own plate. They already tend to think they are human, and this can just lead to begging at the table and food theft! Plus, a lot of the foods humans eat are toxic to dogs. This not only includes chocolate and fake sugar, but also common kitchen staples such as onion and garlic. Invest in good quality food for your dog and avoid giving them table scraps. No doubt having read my guide you are interested in bringing a fantastic golden shepherd into your family. These are the questions you should ask yourself to determine whether you are a good fit for this unique breed. Do you have an active lifestyle? Your dog is going to need lots of exercise and is happiest when they can accompany their humans in energetic activities. Are you out of the house a lot? Golden shepherds love company and need to be around their people most of the time. They need a home where there is usually someone about or where they can accompany someone to work. Do you have much space? Golden shepherds thrive when they have space to use their energy, and they are fairly big, so they can make a small apartment feel claustrophobic. Are you willing to accept dog hair as a part of life? Are you a first-time owner? Golden shepherds are easy to train and control, so they are actually great choices for first-time owners. Do you have kids or other pets? Golden shepherds are great around kids and other pets if they are properly socialized. But these big dogs with lots of energy could be challenging if you have very small children. Let these questions guide you as to whether a golden shepherd is the right dog for you. In short, if you are low on space, time, or energy, a different breed might be a better match. If you find a breeder selling for less than this, be wary, as you may be dealing with a puppy mill. You may also find golden shepherds in your local shelter , because despite being amazing and pliable dogs, their energy and attention and exercise needs often prove too much for some owners. What do you think of the golden shepherd? Does it mix the best aspects of the German shepherd and golden retriever? Is this the kind of dog you would like to adopt? Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

About Us Experienced Breeders Cottonwood Goldendoodles is dedicated to providing fun, affectionate, healthy, quality puppies to wonderful families since .We are a small breeder located in Boone County, Indiana. We are 30 minutes north of Indianapolis, Indiana, along Interstate I.We have a farm setting with over 5 acres of green grass where our Goldendoodles can run and play. Our dogs and their puppies are part of our family and raised in our home. We take great pride in our puppies and the love and care our dogs receive. Our mission is to find happy, loving families for our puppies. F1 Goldendoodle coats tend to be more wavy than curly. Coats are wavy or curly. Goldendoodles have little to no shedding and are recommended for families with moderate to high allergies. Coat maintenance is very important and regular brushing and grooming is required. Generally, your Goldendoodle should be taken to a groomer every weeks depending on coat condition and length. A Furever Friend Goldendoodles are the perfect family dog. They are loving, loyal, smart and great with children and other pets! The size range of the female English Golden Retrievers I have owned range from lbs. In my 20 years of breeding English Teddy Bear Goldendoodles I am achieving a very good consistency with creating sizes. I am at the forefront of creating and perfecting the Pocket Size lbs. Micro is then a huge classification of any puppy less than 14 lbs. Whether you call them Micro Goldendoodles, Micro Petite Goldendoodles, Toy Goldendoodles, Teacup Goldendoodles; they all have the same great personality as their larger Goldendoodle ancestors in a cute small little package. Here at Hilltop Pups, we only breed Poodles with English Golden Retrievers for their excellent health record with an average life span of years. Absolutely no other breeds mixed in to rush the downsizing. Downsizing takes several generations by breeding in a smaller size poodle every 2 to 3 generations to retain the English Golden Retriever personality. Our smallest poodle here is 3 lbs. Since Hilltop Pups team is creating and perfecting the smallest Goldendoodles along with the increasingly popular Irish English Goldendoodles; we have our own size range chart of the average sizes we have witnessed in the past 20 years of breeding. Until an organization such as AKC or CKC identifies Goldendoodles as an official breed, no organization can state what the size standards are as they vary so greatly with breeders breeding American or English Golden Retrievers, plus the range of poodle sizes from lbs. Although Goldendoodles are not considered a Purebred dog breed; it is still important to register your puppy with a reputable canine tracking organization. This will allow breeders to have the information necessary to make responsible breeding decisions. I am an official Preferred Breeder by the strict Breeding Standards set forth by CKC which has the best pedigrees for tracking ancestors for breeding purposes. There are many Designer Dog Registries, but I prefer one of the two largest reputable groups. The English lines create the Teddy Bear look. The English Golden Retrievers have short stocky legs and shorter body length, whereas, American Golden Retrievers can have long bodies and are taller. From there we will have a better understanding of your wants and needs, to properly answer your questions. At Hilltop Pups you get the honor of choosing your puppy with our expert assistance of course. We do not assign puppies to you. We allow visitors because we are proud of our establishment. Beware of Breeders not allowing you to visit and hiding behind Parvo to scare you off. Google Earth those Breeders addresses and names. If you cannot find their name and address on their website immediately exit their website, they are hiding something such as arrest record for cruelty to animals. There are as many good Breeders as there are Puppy Mills out there. My two daughters Abby and Brittany are breeding dogs at their houses, and all puppies are raised with the same excellent breeding practices. Our three sons also house dogs for us; all their dogs are listed on my website, so we can link our websites together. I love hearing from my puppy parents how easy going their puppy is and friendly with everyone. This is due to all the loving care givers our dogs and puppies are with every single day. I have my three Granddaughters ages help with puppy Early Stimulation training and play, so puppies meet a wide variety of people and children in a comfortable trusting setting. When a puppy has been trained by only one person, say a lady; then the puppy may be fearful of a man or a child. Thus, we create confident, brave well-adjusted puppies. Luckily, I have the sweetest husband that cannot sit still and is always looking for something to do or something to clean up. Feel free to contact us via email preferred at hilltoppups yahoo. We will make every effort to answer your questions promptly and truthfully! During busy times, such as when there are several litters of puppies to care for or a mom in Labor, email is much easier for us and we can put in writing complex questions, so you have time to digest and study the information. Our FAQ page is an excellent place to start if you are not familiar with Goldendoodles, as I have collected 20 years of most often asked questions. Email is more efficient; when you call, I may be bathing or grooming a dog or puppy and I cannot leave them unsupervised. Emailing gives me time to answer questions thoroughly, attach reading material, pictures of puppies or Goldendoodles for example. For those people that cannot visit in person, we provide a lot of pictures and video to assist with the selection process. On our website you can search pages by size category, so you have less to look through. On the Sire and Dam pages all our dogs are listed and their health tests. Click on any document to view it. If you do not adopt a puppy from me request proof of health documents and pedigrees before submitting that non-refundable deposit. If a Breeder does not present documents up front, some never will. Some of the dogs listed on my website live with my two daughters and three sons. My two daughters work with me, live close by, and will someday take over my business. It all started here with a dog loving family with 5 children. With my background of Human Resource Management, I know how to research and apply my knowledge in respect to Breeding Laws, better breeding practices, and making my business the best it can be from the treatment of my dogs to my customer service. Some Breeders pick your puppy for you. At Hilltop Pups you get to choose your puppy with our expert advice. We post pictures of puppies every 7 to 10 days with videos, so you get to watch them grow. We schedule visits one hour apart at the top of each hour, once the schedule is full, we schedule on the half hour as well. After each visitor we disinfect everything that has been touched. I am aware some of you are coming a great distance. Go to your car in advance and GPS our address, make sure your GPS is set for highways "not scenic route" as we live on the edge of a town and the GPS will take you through winding country roads. Then give yourself an extra half hour, as I prefer you be early than late running into the next appointment. If you are not able to visit, I take many videos of the puppies and if you have narrowed down your selection to two puppies; we can make you videos of just those two puppies. Rarely in the last 18 years has someone changed their mind when they arrived here and picked a different puppy than the puppy they first fell in love with via our website. You are welcome to fly here to get your puppy. Currently American Airlines has resumed puppy shipping, but temperatures at any point in the flight including departure and layover, must be below 85 degrees and above 32 degrees. Which is a challenge here during the Summer and Winter months, plus any stop over destination and arrival destination temperatures. You are welcome to fly here; Louisville Kentucky airport is the closest at only 80 miles away. Many people are choosing Delivery to your door via vehicle delivery service. Here are reputable delivery companies I have been using for years; you contact the companies directly, arrange shipments with them, and pay them their shipping fee when they deliver the puppy to you. Flight Nanny Service contact Mary Venneketter for cost .Early Stimulation Training program is our highest priority which we start at 3 days old and once puppies are walking around, we still hold them every day on their backs, talk to them to create eye contact, rub all over them to make grooming easier in the future. We teach our puppies not to jump on people and to sit at your feet for attention. Puppies are paper trained to go on shredded paper which feels just like grass, so house training is a breeze, or if you need to train on potty pads that is easy as well. See what your puppy learns before you get the puppy home. The first step in your puppy's future. The next step in your puppy's future is your training from the very first day your puppy enters your home. Want to train your puppy from the convenience of your home as early as the day the puppy arrives home? No waiting until your puppy is fully vaccinated to start training. I suggest you start the training program before your puppy arrives; so you will be off to a great start. After completing this course your puppy should qualify. They are very friendly, helpful, easy to understand, and encouraging, which motivates you to continue in your training adventure. They offer video lessons, plus one on one training question and answer sessions via video chat. This is a Lifetime Program with Members Only Access to training methods, materials, and other resources needed for Pet Parenting and beyond. To continue training where we left off, I highly suggest you have the first unit completed before you get your puppy home. We create the best puppy for you, and you create the best Dog Ever! We are proud of our establishment and have a Visitation Room which includes windows for you to view where our Adult Dogs are Housed. We bring the puppies and adults to you to visit with them. For the safety of our dogs and puppies we do not allow you to walk through the facility, because we would need to disinfect everywhere you walked. We have had this practice in place since the beginning of our breeding program and have never contacted any health concerns by doing so, beware of Breeders that do not allow you to visit hiding behind false statements. Breeders walk everywhere in the world, shopping centers, gas station, Veterinarian Offices and then come home and walk around their kennels, just like anyone else. So why shouldn't people visit? I prefer puppies to get all the interactions they can with different people; you are providing valuable puppy training as well. Evansville is a one-hour drive. This is our house, not a public shopping center. We require appointments to visit as you do want to make sure we are home and able to focus our attention on you and have adequate time for you to interact with the puppies. This is not a large place; the visitation area can get crowded quickly if more than one family is visiting at a time. Our visitation Room does have windows on two sides, so you can see where and how all our adult dogs are housed. It is very important to stay as close to your scheduled arrival time as possible, give yourself that extra half hour for traffic concerns. We are at Eastern Time. Jasper is an aesthetically pleasing clean town of 15, and always rated at the top of the best places to live listings. How amazing it would be for AKC to do this; it is up to Breeders to commit to keeping their breed healthy going forward by health testing the parent dogs. Which believe me very few Breeders invest their money back into their dogs; so always demand copies of health testing prior to even submitting a deposit. DO Not trust Breeders that say they will provide the documents when the puppy goes home, demand proof up front. It is a nightmare to try to get paperwork from a Breeder after you have the puppy, because they do not have it. The Breeder is pulling on your emotions knowing you are getting attached to the puppy and then you are stuck with no proof that you have a healthy puppy that will live a long healthy life. Breeders never to rarely give you the correct documents after you have the puppy, learn from heart breaking experiences of having to re-home dogs that couldn't pass health screening. My research, commitment, and due diligence has paid off. Here is the foundation for creating the perfect Teddy Bear Goldendoodle and how to build conformity into the Breed. At Hilltop Pups we DNA test the coat type of all our dogs so we can create the most non-shedding hypoallergenic coat as possible. I follow this DNA rule when breeding to make sure my dogs are non-shedding. No guess work involved here; You can brush them and not even get hair to pull out. Next, we only breed with English Retrievers which produce a softer less shedding less matting coat than the coarser American Golden Retriever coats. The weight range of English Golden Retrievers that I have owned is for female and for males, although they look just and big and fluffier than the American Golden Retrievers. Next, we consider the color genetics behind the poodle: Reds-, browns-, and cream-colored poodles produce soft non-shedding coats. White, Gray, and Black poodles produce shredders even in the curly dogs; thus, they have been removed from Hilltop Pups breeding program. In we started breeding the Irish Goldendoodles. I am very pleased with what I have seen in the Irish Goldendoodles. Therefore, I only breed English Golden Retrievers as their life expectancy is years and very few ever have cancer. It takes a few generations to build the dark red poodle color back into the English Goldendoodles since the English Golden Retrievers are only white to cream. For the Irish we started with breeding a health tested American Golden Retriever to a health tested Irish Setter to get the hybrid vigor and dark red color; then bred that with a health tested male poodle and then back to another health tested poodle creating the F1b Irish Goldendoodles to ensure the hypo allergenic non-shed coats, plus get the dark red color and fabulous coats. Advantages of adopting an English Goldendoodle from Hilltop Pups Size range available 8 - 38 pounds Predictable size ranges for F2b and multi-Generations Hypoallergenic if past the F1 First generation, because we can DNA test the coat types for breeding. Fully Vaccinated for their age Trained with Early Neurological Stimulation Trained not to jump on people, but sit at your feet for attention Paper potty trained Pre-spoiled, loved, and well socialized Puppies go home with: A 2-year health guarantee; 4 years if you provide NuVet Vitamin Supplements Microchipped with pre-paid membership enrollment form CKC Registration Papers. Questions about Goldendoodle puppies for sale in Indianapolis IN? We have answers. What is an overview of Goldendoodle puppies for sale in Indianapolis IN. Goldendoodles Indianapolis are a special breed of dogs called a hybrid breed. These dogs are currently one of the most popular dogs to own in America! How does Uptown Puppies work? No longer do you have to worry about coming across puppy mills and scammers when searching for Goldendoodle puppies in Indianapolis. Uptown Puppies really gives you peace of mind. Do you sell the cheapest Goldendoodle puppies for sale in Indianapolis? How do I know that my Goldendoodle Indianapolis puppy will be healthy? Are Goldendoodles for sale Indianapolis good for apartments? Goldendoodles Indianapolis are highly energetic dogs, and will feel very cramped in a small apartment. If you leave them alone for hours in such a small space, they may tear up some furniture due to anxiety. If you want a Goldendoodle and live in an apartment, opt for a Mini Goldendoodle, and take it for training immediately. How do I groom my Goldendoodle for sale in Indianapolis? You can bathe it every 3 weeks depending on how dirty it gets. Trim both the ear hair before bathing it to prevent ear infections and the hair around its stomach and body every 6 to 8 weeks - you can take it to a professional groomer for this. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places? Uptown Puppies offers you a safe space, away from puppy mills and scammers, to find the most amazing Indianapolis Goldendoodle puppies for sale! Are there any Goldendoodle puppies for sale Indianapolis available now? There sure are! However, because no two Goldendoodles are the same, you need to act fast when you see one that you want to bring home. Take the necessary action and speak with its breeder or business so that it can be yours! What colors do Goldendoodles in Indianapolis come in? Goldendoodles Indianapolis come in an array of different colors. These coats tend to lighten with age. Can I take my Goldendoodle for sale Indianapolis swimming with me?

Breeds The link has been copied! When considering the addition of a Goldendoodle to your family, one of the first questions that come to mind is, "How much does a Goldendoodle cost? This comprehensive guide will delve into various aspects influencing a Goldendoodle's price. Additionally, we'll discuss the importance of choosing reputable breeders and provide valuable information on protecting your pup with innovative technology like Fi's GPS-tracking dog collar. By learning about these factors beforehand, prospective Goldendoodle owners can confidently navigate this process while ensuring they bring home a healthy and happy companion. How Much Does a Goldendoodle Cost? If you're considering adding a Goldendoodle to your family, it's essential to understand the costs associated with this popular and lovable breed. In addition to the upfront cost of purchasing or adopting a puppy, ongoing expenses like vet visits, vaccinations, grooming services, and pet food need to be considered. The cost of a Goldendoodle puppy can vary, depending on several elements, which will be discussed in further detail later. First, however, it's essential to focus on the purchase price and consider routine costs throughout your dog's life. These may include annual check-ups at the veterinarian's office including vaccinations , monthly heartworm prevention medication, grooming sessions every weeks, and high-quality pet food that meets their nutritional needs. How Much Is a Goldendoodle Puppy? The price of a Goldendoodle puppy can range widely depending on the breeder, its location, and any special features it may have. However, some breeders may charge even higher prices if their puppies come from an exceptional bloodline or have unique traits. Purchasing From Breeders Breeder reputation: Look for reviews online and ask around within local communities or social media groups dedicated to Goldendoodles. Health testing: Reputable breeders will conduct health tests on both parent dogs before breeding them together. Puppy contract: A responsible breeder should provide a written agreement outlining what they guarantee regarding your new pet's health status and other terms related to care after purchase. Finding Adoptable Dogs Through Rescues and Shelters Adopting a Goldendoodle from an animal rescue or refuge can be a great way to give a home to an abandoned pup while saving money. Many organizations specialize in rescuing specific breeds, like the IDOG Rescue , which focuses on finding homes for doodle dogs such as Goldendoodles. Keep in mind that adopting through shelters may require additional time and patience compared to purchasing from breeders since you might have to wait until your desired breed becomes available. However, this option is often more affordable than buying directly from breeders and helps support animal welfare efforts. Factors That Impact the Cost of a Goldendoodle When considering the purchase of a Goldendoodle, it's essential to understand that various factors can impact their cost. Colors The color of a Goldendoodle's coat can significantly influence its price. Rarer coat colors, such as reds and merle goldendoodles , are more expensive than common shades like cream or apricot. While this may not affect the dog's personality or health, many potential owners are willing to pay extra for unique appearances. Dogs with proven lineage from reputable breeders often come at higher prices due to their genetic quality assurance than those without documented ancestry. Breeder Reputation Reputable Breeders: Purchasing your puppy from reputable Goldendoodle breeders ensures you get a healthy dog raised in good conditions. Reputable breeders follow ethical breeding practices by testing parent dogs for genetic disorders and providing proper care during pregnancy and after birth. This level of care comes at a higher cost but provides peace of mind knowing your pup is coming from responsible hands. Puppy Mills and Pet Stores: It's crucial to avoid buying from puppy mills or pet stores, as these establishments prioritize profit over the welfare of their animals. Dogs bred in such conditions often suffer from health issues due to poor breeding practices and inadequate care. While puppies from these sources may have a lower initial cost, they can lead to higher expenses in vet bills later on. We do not recommend buying from a pet store or a puppy mill. Estimated Size The size of your Goldendoodle will also impact its price. Smaller Goldendoodles, like Mini Goldendoodle or Teacup varieties, typically cost more than Standard-sized dogs because they are in higher demand due to their convenient size for apartment living and easier handling by owners with limited space. On the other hand, larger adult Goldendoodles might be less expensive but could require more resources for grooming costs, food consumption, and exercise needs. The Prices of Different Size Goldendoodles Goldendoodles come in various sizes, which can significantly impact their cost. In this section, we will explore the prices of Mini, Teacup, and Standard Goldendoodles to help you understand how size affects the overall price. Mini Goldendoodle Price The Mini Goldendoodle is a popular choice for those who want a smaller dog with all the wonderful qualities of a standard-sized one. These dogs typically weigh between pounds and stand around inches tall at shoulder height. You may also find that some breeders charge more for rarer coat colors or patterns. Teacup Goldendoodle Price If you're looking for an even smaller version of the beloved doodle breed, then consider getting a Teacup Goldendoodle. Weighing only pounds and standing just under 12 inches tall at shoulder height when fully grown makes them perfect pets for people living in apartments or small homes. Keep in mind that caring for teacups might require extra attention compared to larger breeds, so be prepared for additional expenses in the long run. Standard Goldendoodle Price The Standard Goldendoodle is the largest of the three sizes, weighing between pounds and standing around inches tall at shoulder height. These dogs are known for their friendly personalities and low-shedding coats, making them great family pets. It's essential to choose a responsible breeder who prioritizes health testing and ethical breeding practices when purchasing your new furry friend. This innovative device allows you to keep tabs on your dog's location at all times, giving you peace of mind knowing that they are safe. The Fi Smart Collar offers several features that make it an excellent choice for Goldendoodle owners. These include: Real-time tracking: The collar uses advanced GPS technology to provide accurate location data so that you can find your pup quickly if they wander off or gets lost. Fence alerts: You can set up virtual fences around specific areas such as your home and receive notifications if your dog leaves these boundaries. This feature helps prevent them from venturing too far away or into dangerous situations. Durable design: The collar is built with high-quality materials designed to withstand rough play and harsh weather conditions, ensuring long-lasting protection for your pet. Battery life: Boasting a battery life of up to three months between charges, this collar ensures continuous monitoring without frequent interruptions for recharging. In addition to providing security and peace of mind, the Fi Smart Collar also tracks activity levels. It enables you to monitor how much exercise your Goldendoodle gets daily - crucial information, given their energetic nature. Now that you know the cost of owning one, let's look into what makes this breed so special with our next heading: Goldendoodle Breed Guide. Goldendoodle Breed Guide The Goldendoodle is a popular and versatile breed, known for its friendly personality, intelligence, and low-shedding coat. A blend of the Golden Retriever and Poodle breeds, this hybrid pooch presents a great mix of attributes that make it appropriate for various ways of life. Personality Goldendoodles are typically affectionate, social dogs with a gentle temperament. They get along well with children and other pets in the household. Their high level of intelligence makes them easy to train as they quickly pick up on commands and cues from their owners. Moreover, these dogs have an innate desire to please their humans, which further contributes to their trainability. Generally speaking: Miniature Goldendoodles: weigh between pounds kg and stand at about inches cm tall at shoulder height. Standard Goldendoodles: Standard Goldendoodles are larger, weighing between pounds kg and standing at inches cm. Average Lifespan The average lifespan of a healthy Goldendoodle ranges from around 10 to 15 years when provided proper care, including regular vet check-ups , vaccinations, exercise routines, grooming sessions, and a balanced diet. They enjoy activities such as walking, running, swimming, or playing fetch. Providing them with at least 30 minutes of daily exercise is essential for keeping your Goldendoodle happy and healthy. Additionally, engaging in mental stimulation exercises, like puzzle toys or obedience training sessions, can help keep their minds sharp. Approximate Lifetime Care Costs The lifetime care costs of owning a Goldendoodle include expenses related to food, grooming, veterinary care including vaccinations , pet insurance if opted for , and accessories like collars and leashes Fi GPS Tracking Dog Collar recommended , among others. How Can I Lower the Cost of a Goldendoodle Goldendoodles can be quite expensive, but there are ways to reduce the cost while still enjoying the companionship of this lovable breed. Adopting vs. Buying From a Breeder Pet adoption websites and local animal shelters often have Goldendoodles available for adoption at significantly lower costs compared to buying from breeders. By adopting, not only do you save money, but you also provide a loving home to an animal in need. Purchasing or Adopting an Older Dog Instead of a Puppy If your heart is set on owning a Goldendoodle, but the price tag seems too steep, consider adopting or purchasing an older dog instead of opting for puppies. Older dogs usually come with lower prices as they might not possess certain desirable traits like specific coat colors or pedigree lineage. Additionally, senior dogs tend to be calmer and require less training than their younger counterparts. Conclusion After considering all the factors that impact the cost of a Goldendoodle, it is safe to say that they can be quite expensive. The price of a Goldendoodle can vary significantly, depending on factors such as size, age, and the breeder's reputation. Additionally, grooming costs and potential health issues should also be taken into account when calculating the actual cost of owning a Goldendoodle. If you're interested in getting a Goldendoodle but want to lower the cost, consider adopting an adult dog or purchasing from reputable breeders with reasonable prices. Investing in pet insurance is essential to ensure that any unforeseen medical costs won't be a burden. If you're ready to welcome a new furry friend into your home and want peace of mind knowing their whereabouts at all times, try Fi's GPS-tracking dog collar today! Be sure to keep tabs on your pup with Fi's GPS collar, which gives you real-time location updates and activity tracking. The link has been copied! You might also like. These designer dogs are a mix between the Golden Retriever and the Miniature Poodle and are a popular choice for many dog owners. However, there is quite a bit of expense associated with these dogs. This will help you decide whether you have the budget to make one of these adorable dogs a member of your family. As designer dogs, Mini Goldendoodles can be quite expensive. If you have a family member or close friend whose dog has had puppies, they could be willing to gift you a new best friend. In many situations, dogs given for free could have illnesses or behavioral problems you will need to deal with as your dog ages. It can happen though. The pet may have their deworming, first vaccines, and spaying or neutering done already. When going this route, you must ensure the breeder is reputable. These breeders care about the dog breed and do their best to maintain integrity. They will be knowledgeable of the breed and are open to giving you medical, parentage, and care information for the dog you are bringing home. Due to the care and time given to a specific dog breed at a breeder, the costs are quite a bit more. Of course, there are breeders out there who will increase prices. However, if you truly want to give your dog the best start to a happy and healthy life. Your pet will need a comfortable bed, food and water bowls, and a collar and leash. These dogs have passed away but lived long, fulfilling lives with their new families. Cost If you buy a Goldendoodle from a reputable breeder, the cost is pretty high, considering they are a popular designer breed. Mini Goldendoodles are much more expensive than Standard Doodles because they are in higher demand and are more challenging to breed. What Makes a Mini Goldendoodle Special? Their goofy personalities make them a blast to play with, but their Poodle intelligence makes them easy to train. This is why Mini Goldendoodles are excellent canine companions. The most common texture is the wavy coat, which gives the Goldendoodles their signature Teddy Bear appearance. This dense coat is a little wavier and slightly hypoallergenic. A wavy coat requires regular grooming. The most sought-after hair type is the curly coat. Mini Doodles with curly coats tend to be the most expensive out of the litter. Since Poodles come in many colors, there are also loads of color options for Mini Goldendoodles. More unique colors include Black, Parti, or Sable. When you crossbreed, you will find that the mixed breed tends to be larger, less prone to genetic diseases and acute conditions, and live longer. Therefore, Mini Goldendoodles tend to have a life span of years. They typically live healthy lives if they are taken care of properly. This could manifest as barking, whining for no apparent reason, acting aggressively, and rough-housing. Goldendoodles need at least one minute walk a day to prevent over-excitement. However, remember that Mini Doodles will tucker out faster, given their smaller stature. Crates Since Mini Doodles are so tiny, I would recommend buying an adult-sized crate, even if you have a puppy. Simply add in a crate divider to limit the amount of space your dog has! I recommend a bowl with a narrow mouth because those Doodle ears are always getting into everything! This is an absolute necessity for all dogs. Interactive Toys The best way to keep your pooch occupied is to give them tons of interactive toys. Mini Doodles are extremely intelligent pups, and they love a challenge. Consider a puzzle toy to pass the time if your pooch is very food-motivated! At first, your Mini Doodle will probably be really scared by the lead, but if you repeat it a few times, he will get the hang of it eventually! My pups love a bit of boiled chicken breast or freeze-dried chicken liver during their training sessions! You must brush their hair about once a week, but this depends on their fur length. Also, since Mini Doodles have those adorable floppy ears, they are quite prone to ear infections. Do this every time your pup gets wet or dirty. If the ears begin leaking a foul-smelling discharge, consult your vet immediately. Young pups need a ton of vaccinations, such as for the canine distemper virus, canine parvovirus, canine hepatitis, rabies, Leptospirosis, and Kennel Cough. There are also a few vaccines that should be administered depending on where you live and what populations your dog will come into contact with. For example, your pup may be immunized against Leptospirosis, Kennel Cough, Lyme Disease, and Canine Influenza if he spends a lot of time with other dogs or in wooded areas. Boarding If you plan on leaving your Goldendoodle Mini alone for hours at a time, you may consider investing in puppy boarding. Putting your dog in a kennel or doggy daycare ensures that your pup is being walked frequently, has enough food, and gets tons of attention. Shop around for boarding solutions. Look at customer reviews and talk to other pet parents. Exercise Exercise is crucial to raising a healthy Mini Goldendoodle. Since both of his parents are working dogs, your Doodle will always be ready to go for a long walk! Make sure you give him tons of opportunities to release all that pent-up energy, or it may lead to naughty behaviors like biting, whining, or urinating in the house. Health Issues Before you bring a Mini Golden home, you might be wondering if they are prone to any health conditions or ailments. This is a super normal fear to have. Goldendoodle genes predispose them to a few conditions. Dogs bred by responsible breeders who performed health screenings have a nutritious diet, get ample exercise, and are less likely to inherit any of the following medical conditions. Mini Goldens, like other smaller breeds , are also prone to Mitral Valve Disease, dental disease due to crowding of the teeth, and obesity. Are Mini Goldendoodles good dogs? I would definitely recommend adopting a Mini Goldendoodle because of its playful temperament, adorable teddy-bear look, and cute size. However, be prepared to pay top dollar for a well-bred Mini Goldendoodle. These pups are in high demand, and their price tag definitely reflects that. Do Mini Goldendoodles bark a lot? Are Mini Goldendoodles hyper? This can manifest in naughty behaviors like barking, whining, destroying furniture, and jumping on their owner. Do Mini Goldendoodles shed? Many people buy Goldendoodles due to their somewhat hypoallergenic coats. You may be wondering if Mini Goldendoodles shed. It all depends on their coat type. A Mini Goldendoodle with a flat coat or a wavy coat will shed a lot more than a Mini Golden with a curly coat. Also, frequent brushing will reduce how much your dog sheds throughout the day. Frequent brushing will also greatly help with allergies. Do Mini Goldendoodles smell? These dogs are extremely sociable, playful, intelligent, and athletic, making them great for apartment living or as ranch dogs! If you have any questions, please leave a comment down below. If you found this article helpful, please share it with other pet parents. Thanks for reading! Alison Page Alison Page was brought up with dogs and various other pets! For a few years, Alison worked as a Practice Manager in a small animal veterinary clinic. Alison is now a full-time writer, specializing in creating articles on the care and training of dogs, cats, and fish. By Beth Satterfield Mini Goldendoodles are all the rage these days, sweeping the country with their cuteness. But how much do they cost? If money is an issue for you, you may want to hold off on getting one of these puppies. Attributes that will raise the price higher include size, color, breeder information, and genetics. Why are these darling dogs so expensive? Other factors that can contribute to the price of Goldendoodles are their size, gender, coat color, coat type, breeder reputation, and location. Size and Gender There are lots of sizes of Goldendoodles , but they can be divided easily into two categories: standard and mini. Mini Goldendoodles , however, are a whole other ball game. As these dogs get smaller, their price gets higher. Know that the smaller the dog, the more likely you are to run into health problems and have to pay even more. Gender is another contributing factor to the price of your Goldendoodle. As with all dog breeds, female dogs will cost more than males because they have the potential to have puppies. Goldendoodles can also be found in apricot, black, grey, cream, and red. Additionally, they can be found in multiple colors, although this is extremely rare. Keep in mind that the rarer the color or combination of colors , the higher the price will be. Goldendoodles also have the potential to have straight, wavy, or curly coats. Generally, Goldendoodles with curly coats will be the most expensive, because they are the least likely to shed, and therefore are the most hypoallergenic. Breed and Location The genetics of a mini Goldendoodle will also play a part in its cost. If a mini Goldendoodle has good parentage or a good pedigree, expect the price to rise significantly. The generation of a mini Goldendoodle will also be important in determining the price. This leads to a greater tendency to have curly coats, which affect how much the dog sheds, and how hypoallergenic it is. Additionally, there are three types of Goldendoodle: American, English, and Canadian. American Goldendoodles tend to be lankier, less muscular, and come in a larger variety of colors. English Goldendoodles tend to be stockier, with a more square-shaped head, and are most commonly found in gold, cream, or white. Canadian Goldendoodles are thinner, taller, and are usually characterized by darker coats than the other types. The location that you find your mini Goldendoodle in is also very important. The same goes for breeders with champion dogs: their puppies will be very expensive. Speaking of gigantic medical bills, you may be meeting those if you purchase a puppy from a puppy mill. These do not take very good care of their puppies, and a puppy purchased from one will most likely not be as healthy as it should be. Occasionally, though, you may find one that you can save and give a forever home to. The Mini Goldendoodle is a fantastic option! This designer dog is in great demand due to its exceptional features. Find out what to anticipate from these puppies in terms of training, diet, and more! Despite his amusing moniker, the Mini Goldendoodle is a serious candidate for the title of the best family dog. According to Dog Academy , this designer dog is one of the more recent additions to the scene, but he is showing dog lovers all around the world that he is a fantastic animal that makes a wonderful canine friend. A Small Goldendoodle is a Golden Retriever crossed with a miniature poodle. This is how they may go from a regular-sized doodle mix to a smaller one since the Toy Poodle is substantially smaller than the average doodle mix. What Is the Price of a Goldendoodle? Although being a crossbreed between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, due to strong demand, the price of these pups remains high. Teacup, toy, and mini Goldendoodles weighing less than 15 pounds will often cost substantially more since they are considered more difficult to produce. Teacup and toy-sized Goldendoodles, on the other hand, have been known to have serious health problems due to their small size. Mini Goldendoodles are toy, micro, and teacup Goldendoodles, however, they will cost a lot more. There is other more factors to take into account, such as desire and the quality of the breeder. Depending on its generation, this mixed-breed might have a straight, wavy, or curly coat. The first-generation Goldendoodles are frequently wavy and curly. Because they are non-shedding and hypoallergenic, they are more costly than those with straight coats. Coat Color: Because Goldendoodles are a cross between two purebreds with a broad range of colors, this hybrid has a wide range of coat coloring, which affects its pricing. Brown and apricot Goldendoodles , for example, are less costly than the Phantom and Tuxedo varieties, which are significantly rarer. Furthermore, you should expect to spend extra if you ask your breeder for a specific multi-colored puppy. This is because they can promote to a larger number of people who have a greater income. Due to decreased demand, rural breeders may be able to provide more affordable puppies. Health Assurances: Legitimate Goldendoodle breeders frequently provide health guarantees. If the pet owner notices a health concern with the dog, they will replace it or provide a refund. Of course, this is contingent on the terms of the assurance that both parties agreed to. Breeders go to great lengths to ensure that their animals are in good health by giving food, immunizations, deworming treatments, and other essentials. All of this is costly, and the breeder would have to put a large amount of money into the litter to guarantee that it is well cared for. As a result, a costly hybrid is produced. Size: The price of the puppy you want will be determined by its size. Goldendoodles come in three different sizes: regular, medium, and mini. The costliest of them is the mini-size, which is also available in the toy, micro, and teacup sizes. Breeders devote a lot more time and effort to developing these little ones since they might develop health problems if not correctly produced. The price of a Goldendoodle varies based on what it comes with. Furthermore, when you buy from a respected breeder, you will almost always obtain a health guarantee. Breeders will ask you to register the dog, microchip it, and spay or neuter it within a certain time frame, which will add to the cost. These cute and devoted dogs are sure to tug at your emotions! What do Goldendoodles cost? Consider the number and generation of the group to help you set a budget. Keep an eye on the breeders you purchase from and do your research! Look for prior customers and their testimonials to get a sense of where your Goldendoodle is coming from.

She started her breeding program in where she started with Bovey bed pugs. Later, she decided to breed other pugs like the westie puppies and fawn. As a hobby breeder, she is able to give the best puppy food, vet care, and grooming to all her puppies. She did her research before and during the process of running her pug breeding program. This is done to have an early detection, so that it can be treated immediately. Owning a pug is serious since you agree to provide your new companion with nutritious food and healthy living environment. You also need to let them visit the vet periodically to check on their health. This is part of the contract you will be signing once you buy a pug from Bovey Bed Pugs. All their pug puppies come from champion dog parents. That means you are assured of getting high quality litter for your family. They have different pug puppies for sale, but you will have to apply to be screened and shortlisted. They want their dogs to be with loving owners who are also capable of giving them nutritious food and shelter. You can visit their Facebook page to view images and videos of their pug puppies. They live with the family, so they are well socialized for children. They are tamed and crate trained to prepare them for their forever homes. You can email them to find out more about their company and pugs. CK Pugs. Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. German Shepherd puppies , like all puppies, go through a teething phase, and their biting behavior can continue until they are around 4 to 6 months old when their adult teeth have fully grown in. But how do you get German Shepherd puppies to stop biting, and when should you seek out more help? We dive into everything that you need to know here. German Shepherds are herding dogs, and as such, they love to go after anything that moves. This could be cats, kids, hands, fingers, or just about anything else. The more they get away with it, the more acceptable the behavior seems in the future. Addressing the problem early and consistently is vital. Just like babies need something to chew on when their new teeth are coming in, your German Shepherd needs something too! First, it stops when they get their adult teeth. Second, if you try to redirect them to something that they can chew on, most German Shepherd puppies are receptive. At this time, they should have all their adult teeth, which means no more teething to worry about. But at least you know the root of the problem and can start implementing the necessary strategies to address it. Instead, get them a few chew toys, bones, and other acceptable things to chew on as they teethe. You can also throw a few of these toys in the fridge or freezer to cool them down, and this will offer even more relief for your pup when they need it! While there are plenty of techniques to try, we recommend redirection and positive reinforcement. The method is simple. If and when they start chewing on the toy or other appropriate object, give them praise. German Shepherds love to please their owners, so this is typically an effective way to train your puppy. Therefore, you should have levels of concern. If they are still chewing and nipping at the 9-month mark, you should seek obedience training or talk to a vet to see what you can do. So, get on it early and often, and stick with it! Because with just a little work and dedication you can get your German Shepherd puppy to stop biting in no time. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share! Since puppies lack the dexterity that you and I have, they use their mouths to explore the world around them. By understanding the behavior of biting itself, you can begin to see just how normal biting is in German Shepherd puppies. Just because biting is a normal behavior in a puppy does not mean we should tolerate it or promote it. Since biting is a form of communication for German Shepherd puppies, there are many things our puppies could be trying to say! So why do Shepherd pups bite? Puppies often communicate with their siblings through biting and pawing, especially when they are trying to incite a play session. Your pup may gnaw on your hand as if it were a chew toy, especially when you are a moving target. Puppies play and bite their siblings from the moment they are old enough to do so. This is why the behavior is so common, and why our Shepherd pupswill need to learn how to transition to playing with appropriate chewing options. Not only are our hands and feet tempting enough, but even more so when a puppy has a high prey drive. A prey drive is an ingrained need to chase after moving objects, whether it is appropriate or not. A swinging hand as we walk by can be extremely tempting for a growing pup, causing them to jump up and nip. If it seems like your Shepherd puppy is always biting you when you are in motion, it may be due to their high prey drive! They Are Curious As we mentioned above, German Shepherd puppies use their mouth to explore the world around them. Biting can help them examine and understand an object, and our hands and feet can fall into that category as well! If you catch your puppy gnawing on everything around your home, it may be their curiosity getting the best of them! A dog quickly learns what behavior gets a reaction, causing them to do it over and over again. Even if their bites result in a negative reaction from you, it still counts as attention. They Are Teething Similar to teething babies, a German Shepherd puppy experiences teething pain as well. If your Shepherd pup seems to find relief when chewing on objects, they may be biting you due to teething discomfort. They Are Herding You If your German Shepherd puppy is constantly biting at your ankles, they may be displaying some herding behaviors. German Shepherds are ingrained with a need to work, especially in dogs with a working bloodline. If your German Shepherd is always nipping at your feet, running to your side when you are moving, or showing signs of anxiety or frustration when you are moving around your home; it may be herding behavior. So how can you stop this normal puppy behavior? Redirect The Behavior One of the most effective ways to stop your German Shepherd puppy from biting is by redirecting the behavior. An effective distraction is a wonderful way to end the behavior without punishment, and show them how much fun the alternative to biting can be. The next time your Shepherd pup is displaying undesirable nipping, try to pull out their favorite toy. Since this will need to be a toy that your dog enjoys, be sure to offer them the option that they find most exciting. This can be a Kong toy , rope, bone, or any other chewing option that your dog loves. By doing this each time your Shepherd puppy begins to bite you, they will begin to understand that they would much rather play with an acceptable chew option. Having a variety of chew toys can alleviate their need to bite our hands and feet, and offer them the relief they seek in this uncomfortable transition. There are so many toys created for teething puppies, that it should be easy to fill your home with plenty of appropriate options. One of our favorite chew toys is the Kong Teething Binkie. Any attention can validate the behavior, causing them to make it a habit. This shows them that the behavior is unacceptable, and does not involve any harmful negative reinforcement. Our attention is important to a puppy, and they do not want to be ignored. By showing them that biting will only result in us pulling away, they will learn to ditch the undesirable behavior. Interrupt The Behavior Sometimes a Shepherd puppy needs a sharp and sudden sound to pull them out of a bad habit. By giving a quick interrupter cue ouch, yip, eek , you can pull your puppy away from the action and gain their attention. Because of this, it is so important to offer plenty of mental and physical activities throughout your home. For example, if your puppy nips at strangers each time they walk in the door, it may be best to limit their time around the guest and send them to a separate play area. Once they begin to understand that biting is unacceptable, you can refrain from using their separate play area as often. Similar to what we discussed above about being proactive, a separate play area can help them calm down and collect themselves. Once your German Shepherd puppy begins to mature and understand that biting is unacceptable, they should require less time away. Just as there are effective methods in canine training, there are counterproductive actions as well. Do Not Hit Or Yell Since biting is a normal behavior that puppies must learn to grow out of, it is not productive to hit or yell at your puppy when they bite. Doing this can show them from a young age that interaction with you results in something negative, and can hinder your training process. By using other distractions and training methods when they bite, you can turn every bite into a learning experience for your pup! This can seem like a fun game to your pup, and can actually encourage the behavior. Try your best to go limp when they bite you, and pull your attention away from the pup. By doing this, you show them that this behavior does not offer them any extra fun. Extra attention can validate their undesirable behavior, making it challenging to break. Try your best to refrain from reacting to a bite outside of your interrupter cue, and pull your attention away from your furry friend afterward. Biting is a normal behavior in puppies of all kinds. Puppies begin to bite their siblings from the moment they can move, and will continue this behavior until they learn otherwise. A biting German Shepherd puppy is to be expected, and should not result in any discouragement on your part. As long as you are following the tips we mentioned above, your puppy should shy away from this behavior in no time! Biting in puppies is not usually a sign of aggression. Mild biting is usually a form of play, and should be easily corrected. However, there are some rare cases where biting in German Shepherd puppies is a sign of something more. If your pup is displaying any snarling, growling, ears pinned back, stiff posture, or any other signs of canine aggression, your pup may be biting in reaction to fear or pain. If you are unable to make any progress within a month of implementing the tips we discussed above, it may be time to contact a dog trainer. A trainer can not only help your pup refrain from biting, but offer other obedience training as well. Final Thoughts As you can see, biting is a normal behavior for our beloved German Shepherd puppies. Be sure to review the tips we discussed above on proper canine training, and you can banish puppy biting for good! Hopefully, we will have the answers to all of your questions in this guide. But, all that cuteness quickly disappears when the biting phase starts. Puppy biting is normal in all breeds, including the German Shepherd. And, luckily, we have some great tips and tricks to minimize the painful biting period. In fact, it could have a number of causes. Here are a few of the most common reasons, in a little more detail. Teething One reason why puppies of all breeds may bite is teething. This stage often starts at around 3 or 4 months of age — only a few weeks after your puppy will arrive at their new home. Luckily, it only takes a few months for your puppy to have their full set of adult teeth. So, biting from teething is not permanent. If your puppy is biting or chewing because of teething, you may notice other symptoms like drooling, irritability, and going off their food. Boredom or Getting Attention Bored puppies may learn that biting gets some fun responses from you! Just like barking can. If your puppy has learnt that they can get some attention from you when they bite, they may do it to alleviate boredom. This can explain why puppies concentrate most of their biting on one family member — the person who gives the most fun response. Natural Play Biting is a natural part of puppy play — as much as some owners might not want to hear it! German Shepherd puppies, just like any other breed, will bite whilst they are playing with you or with other dogs. If this behavior continues into adulthood, the biting can be more problematic. Responding to Rough Play Some people like to play with German Shepherd puppies in quite a rough manner. This can include pushing them, or rolling them over. Behaviors like this can make puppies very excitable, and encourage biting during play. Encourage calm play between your family members or friends and your puppy. Herding Instincts The German Shepherd breed has a history as a herding dog. The creator of the breed, Captain Max von Stephanitz, bred the German Shepherd in an attempt to create the ultimate all-round herding breed. This was all the way back in the late s. Although the history of the breed has changed over time, from herding to working dog, their origins remain the same. Many herding dogs are prone to natural chase instincts. They may chase small children or other animals — particularly those that are making lots of noise. And, these herding behaviors can include nipping at heels. Once again, your behavior can minimize biting from this cause. Exploration Another common explanation for young German Shepherd biting is their natural curiosity. And, they may do this partly with their mouths. What you really want to know is, when will it stop? However, you can minimize the period by making a few easy changes to your behavior when biting occurs. The best ways to stop puppy biting and minimize the biting period are training and prevention. This means training your puppy to be gentle with you and other people, and taking away opportunities for your excited puppy to bite humans. You may need to go as far as to completely separate your GSD puppy from small children and people who insist on rough play with puppies. We know that this can only encourage biting. Remove Yourself Calmly If your puppy starts to bite you, during play or any other time, the best solution is to calmly and quietly remove yourself. You can use tools like baby gates to keep your German Shepherd in a puppy-safe room. In fact — your puppy will learn that biting during play or cuddles only results in you leaving, and them ending up on their own! Not only will this help to show your puppy that biting is not an acceptable part of playtime, but it can also help your own sanity to remove yourself from those sharp teeth occasionally. Think About Clothing You should also think about the type of clothing you wear around your puppy. Loose, hanging clothing can be appealing to your puppy, and provide something easy to grip on with their sharp teeth. Wear tight fitting clothing to minimize the number of things your puppy can bite at. Use Distractions If you, or young children in your household, are keen to pet your puppy without being bitten, you should make the most of distractions like treats or toys. You can hold a chew for your puppy to keep their attention and mouth distracted whilst someone pets them! Often, puppy owners only think about biting whilst their puppy is actively gnawing on them. One method is to reward them with treats when you are petting them and they are not biting you. Another is to reward them for calm behavior around the house. This way they learn that acting calmly and letting you touch them without biting will earn them good things! One popular method to stop puppy biting is to squeal, squeak, growl, or make another loud noise. Some people claim that this method replicates natural puppy play and tells your GSD when they are being too rough. For some owners, this may work. If this is the case, making a noise when your puppy bites will act as a reward, and encourage your German Shepherd puppy to bite you even more. This is one reason why puppies biting children is so common. Many children will make lots of noise, especially if a puppy bites them, which can lead to further nipping. This is similar to the method above, if used alone. This is why training has to be done in small stages — first you must teach the puppy what action you want, and then you can give the action a name, or command. Punishment Methods The best methods to stop your puppy from biting involve positive rewards for the behaviors you want. Studies on dog training and behavior have shown that punishment based methods are often associated with an increase of problematic behaviors. Punishing your puppy for biting can lead to distrust and fear from your puppy. The causes of puppy biting that we looked at earlier in this guide apply to all GSD puppies. In fact, they apply to all puppies of any breed. Biting and chewing is a normal puppy behavior, and a normal part of play. As long as you react to this behavior in the right way, it is a period that will pass. The biggest fear for most German Shepherd puppy owners is that their puppy is aggressive when it bites. German Shepherd puppy biting can be accompanied by ferocious growls or snarls. It can even draw blood. So are behaviors like snarling and growling. And, if your puppy is biting hard enough to injure you, they may not have learnt proper bite inhibition yet. This is the process where your puppy learns to be gentle with his teeth on your skin. The positive reward methods we discussed earlier in this guide are the best way to teach your puppy bite inhibition. Remove yourself calmly and quietly whenever your puppy bites. And make sure to reward any calm behavior — including when your puppy lets you pet it without biting. Speak to a Behaviorist If you think your puppy is exhibiting aggressive behaviors, such as guarding their resources, you may want to speak to a behaviorist. They will be able to look at your puppy as an individual case, and analyse their behavior properly. Do Adult German Shepherds Bite? The German Shepherd breed is known for being aggressive in some circumstances — they make popular guard dogs, and are number one candidates for working dog roles in the police and military.