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This comes at no extra cost to you. Getting a golden retriever is a big commitment, so to help you make the right choice, we made this list of pros and cons for you. Yes, we do love golden retrievers here this is a golden retriever blog, after all , but golden retrievers are definitely not for everyone. Golden retrievers are great family dogs and are good with children Goldens love nothing more than being with their families. Golden retrievers have great personalities They are sweet, loving, gentle dogs that like to please people. Golden retrievers are smart According to Dr. This is based on their ability to learn new commands and perform commands they already know. They can learn over words and are about as smart as a 2 or 2. You can start training them as soon as you bring them home at eight weeks, and many good breeders start training their pups even a little bit before that. This is a great way to build your relationship with them, plus it helps stop bad habits from forming. Also, not only are they easy to train , but they love to train. They like to be challenged and like to be rewarded with praise and food. Their long, golden coats, sweet smile, and joyful tail make them one of the best-looking dogs. Goldens wear their emotions on their sleeves and you can seemingly always tell what a golden retriever is thinking by looking at their body language. Below is a list of some of the cons of owning them, but keep in mind that many of these things, like grooming and paying for vet visits and food, will be cons of owning any breed of dog. It just seems to be in the atmosphere in our home. They need regular grooming tasks done, such as cleaning their teeth, brushing their coats, clipping their nails, cleaning their ears, and taking a bath. Of course, you can do these tasks yourself, or bring them to a professional groomer to get them done. Golden retrievers have quite a few health issues Because of things like backyard breeding and inbreeding, golden retrievers seem to have a lot of health issues. I wish it was longer, but larger dogs typically do live shorter lives than smaller dogs. Click here to learn more about how to give your golden retriever a long, happy life. But the good news is that golden retrievers do make great alarm systems. Golden retrievers need a lot of exercise Goldens were bred as hunting dogs, which means they had to have a lot of energy to retrieve gunned down birds out in the field all day. Goldens need one to two hours of exercise per day. Most people recommend only getting a golden if you have a fenced in yard. If not, expect to make lots of trips to parks and fields where your golden can run around and get their energy out. Golden retrievers are mischievous Goldens love to play, and their smarts and energy levels can sometimes get them in trouble. Take the adorable Thieving Archie in the video below for example. Oliver also likes to be chased and play keep away, but not quite as much as Archie. You can literally see the wheels spinning as he tries to decide whether he wants to obey or try to force us to play his favorite game. They would much rather prefer to be with their families all the time. Golden Retriever Facts We just covered a lot of pros and cons, but this next section covers some facts that might be a pro or con, depending on your preferences. Golden retrievers are medium to large dogs Goldens are definitely not small dogs. They range from inches tall and pounds. And even then, many people say golden retrievers are puppies for life. I was tempted to put this in the cons side because they can be difficult as wild puppies, but their goofiness and playfulness is endearing. But they will bring more love and joy to you than you could ever imagine. Are you thinking about getting a golden retreiver? Let me know what you decide in the comments below! Related articles:. The 6 Pros of Owning a Golden Retriever 1. Golden Retrievers Have an Excellent Temperament Golden Retrievers are popular for their fun-loving, affectionate, and intelligent personalities. They Are Easy to Train They are enthusiastic about learning new things and have a great ability to pick up on new commands. Paired with loyalty and a high potential to learn, they are easy dogs to train. Make your training sessions fun and rewarding. Golden Retrievers love games, learn well through them, and are highly motivated by rewarding treats. Make it a regular part of the day so that they master their skills and get every family member involved, so their training is consistent. Goldies Make Great Family Dogs They are great with kids and have a natural ability to calm people and intuit their emotions, making them the perfect pet for a big family with kids. They are patient, caring, and gentle with kids and will love joining in on family adventures. Image Credit: wavebreakmedia, Shutterstock 4. Golden Retrievers Love to Play Living up to their name, Retrievers are great at playing fetch and love the time spent with their owner. While you can enjoy the fun-loving and active nature of your Golden Retriever outdoors, they are calm and obedient indoors. Golden Retrievers love playing water games. In fact, they have slightly webbed feet, which is a genetic trait that helps them swim through marshes and rivers. Paired with their athleticism, they are amazing and very keen swimmers. They are loving and empathetic and are commonly used as therapy dogs because of these qualities and their ability to soothe and calm people. Image Credit: Dmytro Zinkevych, Shutterstock 6. Even though they were originally bred as hunting dogs, that is no reason to be concerned, as their friendly and lovable nature will override any prey drive that they might have. The 4 Cons of Owning a Golden Retriever 1. Golden Retrievers Can Be Expensive It is no surprise that golden retriever puppies are in high demand, so with that usually comes a high price tag. There are several factors that will influence the price of a golden retriever, such as color, age, pedigree, certification, and breeder location. Over and above the purchase cost of your pup, you need to consider healthcare and insurance, feeding, training, and grooming costs. In some cases, you can expect an even bigger figure than this. Golden Retriever puppies also cost more than adult or senior dogs, but this is the case with most dog breeds. Image Credit: Jagdprinzessin, Pixabay 2. Goldies Are Prone to Health Issues It is common for purebred dogs to encounter some breed-related health problems , and the Golden Retriever has a few worth mentioning. Hypothyroidism: An endocrine disorder in dogs due to an underactive thyroid that can cause bodily functions to slow down. Cancer: Golden Retrievers are prone to cancer. Your Golden Retriever puppy food will need 1. A diet that nurtures bone and joint development is crucial for a growing pup of a large breed. As your pup grows, its diet should be transitioned over 7 days to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Image Credit: PorChonlawit, Shutterstock 4. A deshedding tool is ideal for catching dirt and debris from the undercoat and can be done every few weeks. Check their ears regularly for cleaning to prevent infection, and give their nails a trim when you hear them tapping on the ground. Every 4 to 6 weeks, your pooch will enjoy a bath. Be sure to use a pet-friendly shampoo and rinse thoroughly to avoid left over suds that can cause irritation. Final Thoughts It is clear that the pros far outweigh the cons when owning a Golden Retriever. Knowing what to expect will help you in deciding and give you a realistic idea of life with one of these amazing dogs. Be sure and confident in your ability to raise, train, and care for your new family member before making the commitment, and do thorough research on breeders and shelters to adopt and buy responsibly. They will bring your family many years of companionship , joy, and unconditional love, which are primary factors when deciding to take one on. A Golden Retriever is guaranteed to bring you these elements in abundance while keeping you busy and active. The pros and cons are subjective to what suits you as a family, but we believe that a Golden Retriever will be a great addition with all the positive qualities and endless love they have to offer. See Also:. These dogs are perfect for anybody who wishes to find a loving and caring four-legged friend. However, just as with any other dog breed, there are some downsides of Golden Retrievers to keep in mind. What are the pros and cons of owning a Golden Retriever? Pros: Golden Retrievers are loving; make great therapy and family dogs, are playful and love people. They are also intelligent and easy to train. Cons: Golden Retrievers are not great guard dogs, can be mischievous, do not like being left alone, and are prone to health issues that can shorten their life. Golden Retrievers are special dogs that are bound to make you fall in love at first sight. This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! The Facts Golden retrievers are considered a medium-to-large breed. They can be between 21 and 24in cm tall, and can weigh between 55 and 74lbs kg depending on gender and age. Their temperament remains playful for longer than other breeds. They descend from a Tweed Water Spaniel mix. They are naturally sweet, calm, and loving. This characteristic makes them the perfect dog breed for a family or being trained to be a therapy dog. In the video below, you can find a quick overview of the must-know facts about Golden retrievers. Facts about Golden Retrievers. However, according to the studies conducted by neuropsychologist Stanley Coren, Ph. They can learn up to words, and their intelligence can be compared to that of a 2-year-old child. Their training should start when they are eight weeks old and should continue throughout their life. If you are buying a Golden Retriever puppy, you can start the training Brain Training For Dogs as soon as your furry friend comes home. However, breeders tend to begin their socialization training when they are still with their mom. Golden Retrievers are naturally caring and protective, making them an ideal family dog. However, it is essential to keep in mind that Golden Retrievers are a larger dog, and their playfulness might have some downsides: it is easy for them to knock over or hurt a child accidentally. With supervision and proper training, Golden Retrievers make perfect dogs for your little ones. They Have Loving Personalities Golden Retrievers are goofy and playful, but they are also kind, loving, and incredibly caring. Whether you wish to introduce them in a household with children or to accompany older adults, Golden Retrievers are not short of affection! They Are Excellent Therapy Dogs If you have ever looked into canines who become therapy dogs or guide dogs, Golden Retrievers are always at the top of the list. These dogs make great pets to hug, cuddle and give comfort aka comfort retriever. They are excellent companions for kids and adults who are ssufferingfrom stress or anxiety regardless of the reason. Even if your Golden Retriever is not on the path to becoming a therapy dog, you can still enjoy all the love your puppy has to give! Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! They must receive the correct supervision when meeting others, but you are not likely to experience many socialization problems with Golden Retrievers. Golden Retrievers Are Prone to Health Issues Golden Retrievers are a beautiful breed, but they are undeniably more prone than others to deal with certain chronic conditions. Among the most common health issues that you will find affecting the Golden Retriever breed are hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and certain eye conditions. Golden Retrievers Can Be Expensive Golden Retrievers are a pure breed, and they are among the most expensive ones out there. If you want to be assured of a purebred Golden Retriever, you must find a respectable breeder. Costs where I break down the costs of owning a Golden. A key personality trait of a guard dog is some level of aggressiveness. Golden Retrievers, in most cases, are lacking this trait entirely and would be more likely to lick an intruder than to chase them off. They need to live indoors with their people. Golden Retrievers Shed Frequently Golden Retrievers are not one of the pure breeds with the longest hair, but they shed much more than fellow medium-length fur dogs. Without this amount of activity, Golden Retrievers can quickly become overweight and frustrated. And, since they are highly energetic dogs, this can turn into destructive behavior. While this makes them one of the best breeds for families and kids, there is a downside to this personality trait; it is not uncommon for Golden Retrievers to suffer from loneliness and seperation anxiety- even when you are just at work! Studies have found that the larger breed of bigger dogs can affect their life expectancy. Additionally, Golden Retrievers are more prone to several health issues that can be life-threatening in most cases. Conclusion The upside is that Golden Retrievers are great dogs for families with children. They love socialization with other animals and humans, and are incredibly loving and caring. Their personality makes them the best choice for therapy dogs and one of the most loved breeds in households around the world. The downside is that while Golden Retrievers are highly intelligent and trainable, they also need a lot of exercise, attention from their owner, and they shed a great amount. They are also prone to several threatening health conditions, high maintenance , and costly. Golden Retriever health issues Golden Retriever pros and cons Owning a Golden Retriever has advantages and disadvantages. Pros of owning a Golden include the dog's friendly and affectionate temperament. The sociable and playful temperament of the Golden Retriever makes this breed one of the most popular family dogs. Golden Retrievers make good family pets for older people and for families with children. Goldens are eager to please the owner and highly trainable. This easygoing breed is fit for first time dog owners, which is another con. Disadvantages of owning a Golden Retriever include the abundant shedding. Golden Retriever owners need to brush the dog often. Investing in a good vacuum cleaner is also a good idea as there may be plenty of dog's hair around the home where a Golden lives. Goldens have plenty of energy and need to get sufficient exercise every day. Goldens enjoy long walks and owners need to be energetic enough to take the dog out for several good walks every day. This is not an apartment dog. Goldens need enough space and a country home with a large yard is ideal. Goldens are companion dogs that need to spend most of the day with the owners. One of the cons of owning a Golden Retriever is that this breed is not fit to be a guard dog. Goldens are so friendly by nature that counting on a Golden to protect your home is setting unrealistic expectations. The Golden Retriever breed originated in the early 19th century in the Scottish Highlands. It was created by a gentleman named Dudley Marjoribanks, 1st Baron Tweedmouth Lord Tweedmouth to you , a Scottish businessman and politician who bred dogs as a hobby. The breed was developed from crossing bloodhounds, setters and the existing retrievers to create a breed of hunting dog that could retrieve a large number of game birds from land and water. Golden Retriever weight Golden Retriever male weight: 29 to 34 kg 65 to 75 lb Golden Retriever female weight: 25 to 29 kg 55 to 65 lb Golden Retriever size Golden Retriever male height: 56 to 61 cm 22 to 24 in Golden Retriever female height: 51 to 56 cm 20 to 22 in Golden Retriever coat: thick, long double coat Golden Retriever colors: Light Golden, Golden, or Dark Golden How many puppies do Goldens have on average? Golden Retriever litter size: 4 to 8 puppies How long do Golden Retrievers live? Golden Retriever personality According to the breed standard, the Golden Retriever personality is friendly, reliable and trustworthy. The highly intelligent Golden Retriever with a friendly temperament is among the most popular dog breeds in the United States. Originally developed to help hunters find ducks in the water, Golden Retrievers have soft mouths so they don't damage and chew up the birds during retrieving. The Canadian Golden Retrievers are the tallest of the three types males can reach 24" in height which is about 61 centimeters and females can reach .American types tend to be lankier and less muscular than other types. British type Golden Retrievers have broader skull and the forequarters are more muscular than in other types. Golden Retrievers are a versatile breed that can live in an apartment or in a large house. The large dog needs about two hours of exercise every day to stay healthy both mentally and physically. Golden Retriever's friendly personality makes him a perfect family dog. Are Golden Retrievers good with kids? Golden retrievers are playful, energetic and affectionate dogs and are very suitable for families with kids. Golden Retrievers love to play fetch with a ball or frisbee. The dog easily adopts to different environments and to different people. This breed can be a good hunting dog and a good show dog. The Golden Retriever breed is well suited for those who have little or no experience in dog ownership. Easily trainable Golden Retrievers excel in obedience. The Golden Retriever is not fit to be a guard dog. The dog may bark when a stranger approaches his territory but in general Golden Retrievers will not attack as the breed is known for its friendliness. Golden Retrievers are easily trainable and used by search and rescue teams, as Seeing Eye dog for the blind and as a hearing dog for the hearing-impaired people. Socialize your Golden Retriever early on. Take the Golden puppy to different environments and be sure to keep the dog comfortable at all times. Let the puppy meet people of different ages - from young kids to seniors. Letting the puppy befriend other family pets is also important. Keep new experiences short and always positive. Never let anyone play rough with your puppy. A well socialized puppy will grow into a confident adult Golden Retriever who can be comfortable in different environments and has a positive and friendly personality that makes this breed so irresistible to dog enthusiasts. See video below for more information about this Golden Retriever - the large family friendly dog breed. Thick, long and wavy coat with a good undercoat of the Golden Retriever protects this breed in the coldest water. The coat needs daily brushing to avoid tangles. Regular brushing helps to manage the shedding. Many dog breeds shed all year long, but most breeds, including Golden Retrievers, experience heavier periods of shedding in the spring and fall. Golden Retrievers have a double coat - a long, silky outer coat and a downy, insulating undercoat. In the spring, much of this undercoat sheds out and can get caught in the outer coat, forming mats, particularly around ears, tail and "underarm", where the front legs meet the chest. In the fall, the undercoat grows in more thickly again. During both these periods Goldens need extra grooming with a natural bristle brush and an undercoat rake to prevent mats and keep their coats looking clean, bright and shiny. Video demonstration of using a Furminator brush on a Golden Retriever. Using a Furminator deshedding tool helps to keep Golden Retrievers's shedding to a minimum. Golden Retriever supplies When you are getting ready to bring a Golden Retriever home, getting the needed supplies ahead of time is important. Here are the essential puppy supplies every new Golden Retriever owner should have on hand. Food and Water Bowls Weighted metal bowls or heavy ceramic bowls are the best. These won't tip as easily and won't tempt your dog to chew like plastic bowls might. These are also not likely to collect bacteria as they are easier to clean. Slow feeders for large breeds are great for Labradors. Slow feeders prevent the dog from eating too fast, thus swallowing air along with their food. Crate for a Golden Retriever Crates are very helpful and your dog will find a "den-like" environment comfortable for sleeping and relaxing in. Another important function of a crate is that dog crates can be used for housetraining. Crate-train your puppy right away and he will come to love and cherish his "den". Wire and plastic are both acceptable options, but dogs generally prefer an enclosed den that is only exposed on one side. If confined to a small space but exposed on all sides, dogs can get anxious. If you choose a wire crate, cover the top, sides and back with a blanket or, when outside, with a waterproof cover. This keeps the sun off and gives your dog a safe and secure feeling. Dog leash and collar for a Golden Retriever Every dog needs to learn how to walk on a leash. A light nylon collar and 6-foot leash are appropriate for puppies, but adults can use them too. Nylon leashes and collars are washable, and you can buy reflective kinds, which are better for walking dogs at night. Leather leashes are easier to grip, less likely to chafe your skin if your dog is pulling on the leash, and develop a lovely patina as they age. Retractable leashes are good options when walking in areas where you want to allow your dog to explore off the path, but they aren't a good idea if you are trying to teach your dog to heel and not to pull on the leash. If this isn't a problem, a retractable leash works fine. Just be sure you are still able to keep control of your dog if necessary. Identification Tag ID tag should be on the dog's collar so that whoever finds the dog can return the dog back to you in case your dog gets lost. Dog toys for Golden Retrievers Every puppy needs to play, learn interact and chew on something. Golden Retrievers will quickly learn which toys are theirs if you give them their own toy box - a simple box or laundry basket will do. Keep it full of interesting toys and rotate the toys from time to time so that the dog can find something interesting in that box. You can also teach your dog to recognize each toy by the name. You will need to give your dog one new toy at a time and let the dog play with that toy for a few days, making sure to repeat the word that you want to use to name the toy. This helps your dog to associate each toy with its name and soon he will learn names of all his toys and can bring you one when you request a specific toy by the name. Great way to help your puppy develop his intelligence! Goldens typically enjoy balls, Nylabone Frisbees, and anything appropriate for chewing. Try stuffable toys you can fill with treats, especially those that make your Golden work to get the treat out to keep him busy for hours. Dog shampoo and conditioner Choose a basic dog shampoo, or one specially formulated for medium-length coats. If your dog has sensitive skin, choose a shampoo designed to soothe the skin. Dog conditioners help to keep the coat smooth, shiny, and tangle free. Dog nail clippers Choose clippers designed for large dogs, never use nail clippers made for people on your dog. Some clippers come with a file or an electric smoother built into the clippers, to smooth out the rough nail surface after clipping. You can also use a nail grinder. Keep the dog's ears clean to prevent ear infections. Small blunt-tipped trimming scissors Golden Retrievers tend to grow long hair between and around their paw pads. This can get tangled and in the winter, can collect balls of ice or irritating de-icing salt. Keep your dog's paws trimmed, clipping out hair from between paw pads and around the feet. Brush your dog's teeth every day to prevent dental issues. Golden Retriever training Goldens take to training quickly and with enthusiasm, so housetraining and basic commands come easily to Golden Retrievers. It is up to the owner to invest the time and energy into training their dog so that the dog can earn that title of the "perfect family dog". Because Goldens are quick to learn and are sensitive, they don't need harsh training methods. They only need consistency, a fun approach to training, and lots of positive reinforcement for a job well done. Untrained and unsocialized Golden Retrievers who aren't taught good manners and not exposed to other people and dogs early in life can be pushy, nippy, aggressive, hyperactive, and destructive. Regular training and lots of positive, safe life experience is the way to bring out the very best in your Golden Retriever, so that his true nature and personality can shine. Golden Retriever puppies often display signs of oral fixation and the puppy will chew on things to relieve the oral fixation. To help your puppy be sure to provide the dog with appropriate dog toy that they can carry in the mouth and make sure the toy is safe for chewing and doesn't have small parts that the dog can accidentally swallow. A good toy would be a hard rubber ball to play with. Train your dog to retrieve objects to help the dog satisfy its natural desire to retrieve. This highly intelligent breed responds well to both basic and advanced training. House training should start the minute you bring the puppy home. Select a spot where you prefer to use as your dog's toilet and bring your puppy in that area immediately after each feeding and twenty minutes after feeding. These are the times when most dogs tend to need to relieve themselves. Very young puppies under 4 months of age may need to pee every hour or so. Take your Golden Retriever outside after a nap, first thing in the morning, before going to bed at night and also before leaving the dog alone. To prevent forming a habit of your dog eliminating itself in the house, watch the dog's behavior closely and whenever you notice that the dog is pacing, circling, sniffing and leaving the room - take this behavior as a signal to take the Golden Retriever outside so that the dog can relieve itself in the designated area. Praise your Golden Retriever or reward it with a treat as soon as the dog is finished relieving itself in the designated area. Always bring the dog to the same area designated as the dog's toilet so that the familiar environment will encourage your Golden Retriever to relieve itself. Never punish your dog or scream at the Golden Retriever if the dog doesn't do something right. Stay calm if you catch your puppy in the middle of an accident. Clap sharply in order to startle the dog. This will usually cause the puppy to stop. Then quickly run with the dog outside, encouraging the puppy to follow you. If your Golden Retriever finishes peeing or pooping outside, give a reward. If she has nothing left, don't worry about it. Screaming and punishing can only scare your puppy and make it more difficult for the puppy to learn. Instead be sure to reward the good behavior immediately so that the dog associates the reward with his behavior. Ignore the bad behavior. Staying consistent is the key to success. When it comes to intelligence, the Golden Retriever earned a spot in the top five most intelligent dog breeds. The eager to please the owner Golden Retriever is among the easiest dog breeds to train. Use motivators such as food, praise or play and you will be amazed at how smart the Golden Retriever is. Intelligence is determined not only by genetics. Environment plays a huge role in developing an intelligent dog. As an owner you have the ability to help your Golden Retriever puppy to develop its intellect. Teach your dog names of various objects as the dog is capable to remember hundreds of words. Develop his mental power by naming each of his toys. When you get a new toy for the dog, be sure to name the toy as you are playing with the dog using the toy. Let the dog play with the same toy a few days and keep naming the toy until your Golden Retriever knows the toy by the name and can bring it to you when you ask to bring that specific toy. You can also teach the dog names of other objects. Keep increasing the dog's vocabulary as that helps to create new associations. This is one of the ways to develop your dog's intelligence. Raising Golden Retriever Puppies Pet ownership is a commitment. A good Golden Retriever owner is prepared to put time, money, and energy into proper veterinary care, training, quality food, supplies, and invest quality time into building the relationship between human and dog. The reason why there are so many Golden Retrievers abandoned to animal shelters and rescue groups is because many people aren't suited for this breed of dog. Puppies require housetraining. They chew things you don't want them to chew. They require shots, worming, and checkups that can be expensive. They need obedience training and socialization too. Adolescent dogs aren't easier. Big and full of energy Goldens can easily get into trouble especially between 8 months of age to approximately 18 months until the dog will start maturing into an adult. In old age, Goldens may suffer from many diseases associated with aging, from arthritis and hip dysplasia to eye diseases, cancer, heart problems, and many other conditions. Senior Goldens need more frequent check-ups, tests and veterinary care than Goldens in their prime, and the committed owner will provide this care, along with sensitivity towards an aging Golden's changing needs. If you are ready to become a responsible and committed Golden Retriever owner, ask yourself the following questions: Having a fenced yard helps, but am I ready to spend about two hours every day walking and playing with my Golden Retriever? Am I active enough to keep up with this breed? Do I love to vacuum? Golden Retrievers shed all year, picking up the pace of shedding in the spring and the fall. That means a lot of vacuuming, and tolerance for the occasional stray Golden hair on your pillow, rug and even in your morning coffee. Is my home ready for a Golden Retriever? Is my furniture ready to be occupied by a big yellow dog? Your Golden Retriever will bargain with you for comfort privileges. Am I sure I want a dog around all the time? Golden Retrievers want to be a part of everything that you do. Best dog food for Golden Retriever is made of high quality ingredients and it should also be age-appropriate because dogs of different ages have different nutritional needs. Remove the food between feedings. Regular feedings make it easier to house train your Golden Retriever as your dog will have regular times when it needs to eliminate. A young puppy needs four or five small meals a day. By six months, it will need only two meals a day. How much to feed a Golden Retriever Golden Retriever puppies up to 6 months of age need to be fed 3 times per day. Feed the puppy the low end of recommended amount of food, or as much as the puppy will eat in ten minutes. Best dog food is a puppy food for large breeds specifically formulated to moderate growth, or a premium adult food. Golden Retriever adolescents between 6 months and 1 year old need to eat 2 or 3 times a day. Feed the adolescent Golden Retriever the low end of the recommended amount of food, or slightly more if you can see his ribs. Or, as much as the adolescent will eat in ten minutes. Best dog food for adolescent Golden is premium adult food. Active Adult Golden Retriever between 1 to 7 years old need to eat 2 or 3 times a day. Feed the adult Golden Retriever the low end to middle the amount of food, or slightly more on days of high activity. Or, as much as the dog will eat in ten minutes. Feed the dog premium adult food for active dogs or regular premium adult dog food. Sedentary Adult Golden Retriever between 1 to 7 years old need to eat 2 times a day. Feed the adult Golden Retriever the low end the amount of food, or slightly less if a dog is losing a noticeable waistline when viewed from above. Feed the dog premium adult dog food. Senior Golden Retriever are dogs that are approximately 7 years old and older need to eat 2 times a day. Feed the senior Golden Retriever the low end the amount of food, or slightly less if a dog is losing a noticeable waistline when viewed from above or reducing activity level. Feed the dog premium adult dog food or premium food designed for senior dogs. Golden Retriever grooming and care To prevent ear infections be sure to clean your Golden Retriever's ears regularly. Floppy ears of Golden Retriever are prone to ear infections when moisture gets trapped inside, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. If you notice your dog scratching his ears a lot, give your vet a call. The best way to prevent infection from occurring in the first place, is to keep your dog's ears clean and dry. Bathe your Golden Retriever once every couple of months. Some Golden Retrievers might not like standing in the bathtub, so get your Golden puppy accustomed to regular baths at a young age, when your Golden is physically easier to control. Brushing your Golden retriever before bathing will help to remove tangles that tend to get tighter in the water. Use positive reinforcement by providing your dog with some treats as you are bathing him. Nail trimming is important because long nails can easily scratch people and can also damage the dog's feet by causing foot pads to splay. Nails should be short, neat and smooth, and the best way to accomplish this is to trim your Golden's nails a little bit every week, rather than a lot every couple of months. Inside every dog's nail is a little vein called the quick. The longer the nail grows, the further down the nail the quick grows. When you clip your Golden's nails, you have to be careful not to clip the quick. It also causes bleeding which can be difficult to stop. To be safe, have a stryptic pencil or powder to stop bleeding. The bleeding will stop eventually, but in the meantime you are risking getting blood all over the house. Start nail trimming right away so your Golden gets used to it. Puppies may not like it, but they will get used to it if you do it regularly. Make the process rewarding to your puppy. At first, just do one nail each day, trimming daily instead of weekly. This will get your Golden puppy used to the routine. Work up to one paw each day. Take it slowly, and offer lots of praise, rewards and fun play session afterwards. Dental care could save your dog's life. A senior Golden Retriever with teeth covered in plaque can be at a greater risk for early death and heart disease. Dental plaque can lead to bacterial infections of the heart, so keeping your Golden's teeth clean from the start is important. Daily brushing can prevent the need for professional teeth cleaning later in life, and expensive procedure that requires anesthesia. Nylabone chew toys also can help keep the teeth free of plaque. Always use a toothpaste made for dogs. Toothpastes made for humans can be dangerous for your dog's health. Golden Retriever health issues Common health problems in the Golden Retriever Breed include hip dysplasia, heart problems, eye disorders and cancer. Take your Golden Retriever to the veterinarian once a year for a checkup. Compare Golden Retriever to other large dog breeds. Conclusion Golden retrievers are one of the most popular breeds in the United States. They're known for their beauty, intelligence, and friendly disposition. If you are considering owning a Golden Retriever, then you should know that there are both pros and cons to this breed. The following blog post will discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly of owning one of these dogs. We hope that after reading this article you can make an informed decision about whether or not a Golden Retriever is right for your family! They have a thick coat of fur that can be any color from light gold to dark red. They often have a white blaze on their chest, and their eyes are typically a light brown or green. They Are Intelligent Golden retrievers are known for being one of the most intelligent dog breeds. They are quick to learn new commands, and they are often used as service dogs because of their intelligence and gentle nature. They Are Friendly and Affectionate Golden retrievers love people, and they are always happy to see their owners. They will greet you with a wagging tail and plenty of kisses, and they will never hesitate to show you how much they love you. Dogs are more than just pets, they can be your friend and what better friend to have than a friendly and affectionate dog like the Golden Retriever. They are gentle and playful, which makes them the perfect pet to have if you have children in the house. They will play by their rules and never get too rough, which makes them perfect for small children. They have medium sized bodies and short fur which means you don't have to spend a lot of time grooming them. All you need to do is brush their fur once or twice a week and make sure they get plenty of exercise on the weekends, and your Golden will be happy as can be! With little effort you may be able to train your golden retriever without the help of professional. They Don't Bark a Lot Golden Retrievers are not known for being barkers, which is great if you live in an apartment or close to your neighbors. They will bark when they see someone or something new, but they typically won't bark for no reason like many other dog breeds. They Are Adaptable To Different Locations Golden retrievers are one of the most adaptable dog breeds, and they can do well in different locations. It's always best to research where you will be moving before getting your golden retriever just in case there aren't many areas to walk them or areas that will allow dogs. They Are Always Eager To Please Their Owners Most dog breeds are eager to please their owners, but Golden retrievers go over and above by always being willing to learn new tricks. They will never turn down a command because they just want to do what you say! It's not uncommon for people who own golden retrievers to teach them how to open doors or fetch items when needed. They Are Very Obedient Most dogs are obedient when trained properly, but Golden retrievers take it to the next level. A lot of dog owners consider their golden retrievers family members because they're so good at obeying every command and they are never annoying towards the family members or guests. They will always be up for a game of fetch or tug-of-war, and they will never get tired of playing. They are always happy and full of life, which is why they make such great pets. They may nip at your heels when they're playing or get a little too excited, but they will never intentionally hurt you. It's always best to be cautious around any dog breed, but Golden Retrievers are one of the most trustworthy dog breeds out there. They are very friendly and docile towards strangers so there is no reason for them to bark or protect your home if someone comes knocking. They are prone to health issues Any type of dog breed is prone to health issues, but Golden Retriever owners need to be aware that their dogs are more likely than others to get cancer or hip dysplasia. This is why the dog owners have to focus on keeping their golden retrievers healthy by taking them for a walk every day and playing with them daily so they stay healthy and active. They Shed a Lot of Fur If you don't like having a lot of dog hair on your clothes or furniture, then this is the wrong breed for you. Golden Retrievers shed fur year round and they have no way to control it because their coats are constantly growing in new hair. This can be very annoying if you're not used to cleaning up after dogs with long fur. It's not uncommon for them to disobey commands or show aggressive signs towards other dogs because they don't want to do what you say. They will also refuse to eat dog food when you buy it so make sure that you hide the food bowls if you don't want them to get spoiled. They Are Easily Bored If you don't train your golden retriever or give them a lot of attention, then they are going to get into trouble. They will constantly look for ways to entertain themselves by chewing on the furniture if they have nothing else better to do, which is why it's important that you take them out every day and let them run around in the yard. This will also keep them from getting too tired, which can lead to a lot of health issues down the road. Golden Retrievers Are Prone To Weight Gain It's not uncommon for golden retriever owners to notice that their dogs are putting on a lot of weight, especially if they don't exercise them or give them the right amount of food. It is good practice to feed your dog in moderation and take him out every day so he can build up some muscle. This will help keep his joints strong and healthy as well. This could help avoid obesity in golden retrievers. Golden Retrievers are prone to slobbering all over themselves when they eat or drink water which can be very annoying if you don't like cleaning up after your pets. Make sure that you keep them away from furniture or any other expensive things that you don't want to get ruined. They Can Be Very Smelly Along with the drooling, Golden Retrievers can also be smelly dogs because they tend to not bath as often as they should. This is why it's important that you give them a bath at least once a month and make sure that you dry their fur completely so they don't start smelling bad. They Can Chew and Damage Your Household Items Golden retrievers love to chew on things and they can easily damage your household items if you're not careful. Make sure that you keep all of your belongings out of their reach and put away any valuable items that you don't want them to get a hold of. This includes cords, shoes, and clothing. This can be a pain if you're looking for your car keys or remote control because there's a good chance that your dog has hidden it somewhere in the house. Be sure to keep an eye on him at all times so he doesn't get a chance to steal anything else. Even when you find them, the items would be covered with dog saliva. They Need a Lot of Attention Golden Retrievers are not the kind of dogs that you can leave for extended periods of time because they need a lot of attention and affection. If you have to go out, be sure to take them with you or better yet just don't leave without taking them in the first place. This way your dog will never feel abandoned and he will always be happy to see you when you come home. They Are Heavy Dogs Adult golden retriever can weight up to 75 pounds or more which when combined with their enthusiasm can be problematic for the owners. Imagine coming home after a long day's work and your 75 pound golden retriever runs towards you in enthusiasm and love. Now you know they are doing it to show love and affection but they might end up injuring you. Conclusion Golden Retrievers are great dogs but they also have their fair share of problems. As long as you're aware of these things and know how to deal with them, then owning a golden retriever can be a very rewarding experience. So, are Golden Retrievers the perfect dog breed for you? It really depends on your lifestyle and what you're looking for in a pet. If you're willing to put in the extra work to keep them healthy and happy, then they definitely make great pets! But, if you're looking for something a little more low maintenance, then this is not the right dog breed for you. It's always best to know both Pros and Cons of any dog breed before getting one because it will save you from running into serious issues down the road! More Dog's World. Avoiding stress Golden Retrievers Are Good Looking Golden Retrievers were bred as working dogs for temperament and purpose rather than appearance. Nonetheless, they are stunning-looking medium-sized dogs with gorgeous long silky golden coats and sweet smiles. They are typically light cream or light gold, gold, or red, with varying shades of gold within each color. Different regions have their own breed standard, and you can learn about the various types here, Golden Retriever Types: 3 Breed Variations. Or if you want to specifically compare the UK and the American types, head over here, English vs. That also implies your dog will keep up with you quite well during a hike or outdoor play with your kids. Golden Retrievers also make good company during summer vacations at the beach. Since they were bred to retrieve water birds for hunters, Golden Retrievers are natural swimmers, and their webbed feet make it easier for the dog to propel through the water. Their skill in water will create a lively fetch game in the water as you and your family enjoy your summer escapade by the beach. As you will see, these disadvantages can be offset with context and caution. So read this section carefully. Golden Retrievers Are Food-Motivated Food takes the most significant part of the cost of owning a Retriever, or any dog for that matter. You might then want to rethink your decision. They seem to be hungry all the time due to genetics and environmental causes. However, the exact cause is currently unknown and research is ongoing. During positive reinforcement training, use other rewards such as toys, fun games, and praise. Do you want to know what the best diet for Goldens is? Golden Retrievers Are Heavy Shedders Golden Retriever grooming is one of the roles you bargain for when bringing home a puppy. All dogs have a bit of a doggy smell because their skin produces natural oils that tend to smell with time, and their ear glands can give off a yeasty odor. Some dogs also have a strong smell due to medical conditions like skin and dental infections. When it comes to Golden Retrievers, their doggy smell is mainly due to their double, water-repellent coat that tends to retain odor in both the outer and the finer inner hairs. If your dog is a water magnet, its coat can hold dirt and bacteria, making the smell worse. These include: Hip dysplasia — Hip dysplasia is a hereditary condition that starts when the dog grows, resulting in a loose-fitting hip joint which leads to osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease. Elbow dysplasia — An abnormal development of the elbow joint in fast-growing dogs, usually larger breeds. Elbow dysplasia in Golden Retrievers also leads to chronic arthritis of the joint. Progressive retinal atrophy — An eye disease that causes the retina to degenerate slowly, leading to eventual blindness. However, scientists have identified the mutated genes so screening is advised. Fibrous tissue obstructs the aortic valve leading to fainting, a reduced lifespan, or sudden death. Cancer — The breed is known to be at a higher risk of cancer than other breeds. The ongoing Golden Retriever Lifetime Study attempts to identify the main dietary, genetic, and environmental risk factors for cancer in dogs. To help your dog stay healthy and happy, the Golden Retriever Club of America recommends the following health screening , especially when breeding Retrievers: Hip dysplasia. Wet chewers Remain young at heart Keep in mind that our dogs are not perfect, similar to humans. But that is not necessarily a bad thing. The Good Trust me; the Golden Retriever is a fantastic dog. If they were not, they would not have ranked as the third most popular dog in North America for over a decade. And, I suspect in the coming years that ranking will increase. Maybe not enough to unseat their cousin, the Labrador Retriever, but the German Shepherd better watch out. This majestic dog of Scottish heritage sports a long, lustrous golden mane, along with a strong, athletic body and straight muzzle. Like most puppies, Golden Retrievers are adorable. Good Natured Golden Retrievers are the epitome of joy. This easy-going breed has a vitality and zest for life that we could learn from and incorporate more into our lives. Their sweet love of life is evident in everything they do. Bailey just loving life. Rolling around and being goofy. Always present in the moment, rest assured the Golden Retriever is enjoying life to the utmost. Leery of conflict, the Golden is happiest when giving and receiving love. Not a dog to hold grudges or dwell on the past, the Golden Retriever truly exemplifies compassion and living life to the fullest. The world would indeed be a better place if we all were more like the Golden Retriever. Affectionate and Friendly The hallmark of the Golden Retriever is its friendly and kind temperament. A gentle dog with a soft mouth, the Golden is typically not a one-person dog. Instead, the Golden Retriever wants to share its unconditional love with as many people and animals as it can. Hostility or aggression is not characteristic of the Golden Retriever. The Golden Retriever is best described as friendly, affectionate, trustworthy, tolerant, and kind. These kindly traits are highly valued in therapy and assistance dogs and make Golden Retrievers especially well-suited to families. Intelligent and Obedient Golden Retrievers are very smart dogs. How smart? Canine researcher Stanely Cohen ranks dog breeds into intelligence tiers depending on their ability to learn commands and obedience. Golden Retrievers fall within the top tier of all dog breeds and rank fourth, behind the Border Collie, Poodle, and German Shepherd. If you are curious about how the Golden Retriever and German Shepherd stack up against each other, you might want to check out this article: Golden Retriever or German Shepherd: Which is the Better Dog? The majestic Golden also does well with canine sports such as rally, scent work, obedience, and other activities that the most intelligent dogs excel in. In fact, they are such smart dogs combined with their friendly temperament that they make wonderful tracking and search and rescue dogs. Eager to Please Golden Retrievers are among the breeds most eager to please their owners. Not all dog breeds possess this trait. Some are highly independent or stubborn and are content doing their own thing. Easy to Train Eager to please their owners, plus the ability to learn quickly and with a high level of obedience, is the definition of easy to train, and that is the Golden Retriever. Golden Retrievers do best with positive, reward-based training. However, the breed is also very food motivated, making training more straightforward, as food is a high-value reward to the Golden Retriever. The loving and sensitive nature of the Golden Retriever does best in a training environment that is rewarding and positive. Hold up. Are you looking for a good online training program for your Golden Retriever? I recently wrote an article comparing some of the most popular online dog training systems. Active and Sporty People often see a calm, well-behaved adult Golden Retriever and mistakenly assume that the dog was born with this chill nature. You would be wrong. That calm, well-behaved demeanor is a byproduct of their high intelligence and high trainability. But, Golden Retrievers, especially as puppies , are highly active and energetic dogs. Their dynamic energy and high intelligence mean they need regular exercise and mental stimulation. A physically and mentally under-stimulated Golden will become bored quickly and direct that energy into undesirable behaviors. Especially as puppies, Golden Retrievers can be highly energetic and border on crazy if not exercised and stimulated proficiently. Be prepared that Golden Retrievers have a very long and active puppyhood. Therefore, training will need to start early and be ongoing to ensure a well-behaved, calm dog into adulthood like the ones you see on TV. Or find alternatives such as dog sitters, daycares, or dog walkers to help out. Good With Kids and Pets The Golden Retriever is valued for its ability to get along with children , and other pets, including cats and livestock. A lot of dog breeds would not tolerate this. Not Incessest Barkers Another great trait of the Golden Retriever is they typically bark for a reason. Meaning that they usually bark because there is something to bark at. For example, a Golden may hear kids playing outside, a noise, or other dogs barking or expressing joy during play. Because the Golden Retriever is so intelligent and easy to train, an owner can control barking with consistent training. Highly Adaptable Very few dog breeds are as highly adaptable as the Golden Retriever, which should not be surprising. The dog loves life, has a gentle and kind nature, is affectionate, top-tier intelligent and obedient, easy to train, and highly active. In addition, the breed gets along well with everyone — other dogs, cats, children, women, and men. On the medium to larger side, the Golden Retriever is not a giant-sized breed; rather, a typical Golden ranges from about pounds, with females falling on the smaller side of the scale. However, they can grow up to pounds, like our dog Bailey. However, most tend to be smaller. Their size makes them great for the home and well-suited for indoor and outdoor activities. In addition, their size makes them adaptable to farms, acreages, homes with backyards, and even apartments and condos. Their easy-going, playful nature means they do well with families and active households. Do you or your family like to run, swim, hike, or bike and want a companion for these activities? Then, the Golden is a perfect choice. Yup, the Golden Retriever pretty much checks all the boxes. Soft Mouths All puppies play bite. Bite inhibition is an essential part of training in puppyhood. Maybe the most crucial part of training. For example, Golden Retrievers have very soft mouths. This instinctual trait translates into more gentle play with kids, and other pets once bite inhibition is taught. Puppy biting should be addressed early on for all dog breeds, including the Golden Retriever. To learn why addressing puppy biting is essential and how to do it, take a few minutes to check out this article: Golden Retriever Puppy Biting: When it Stops, What To Do. Remain Young at Heart Most dogs are considered puppies until about 18 months to 2 years old. However, Golden Retrievers often take their puppyhood well past two years, and some well into adulthood. How can it be? Ever met one of those charismatic older people with a joy and zest for life more reminiscent of someone much younger? They seem to have a childlike joy for life, even in later years, and live in the moment. That is the same with the Golden Retriever. Golden Retrievers maintain a joy for life and desire to play throughout most of their lives. Goofy and joyous, this dog breed can bring a smile to your face even when they are older. The Bad There are some issues with Golden Retriever that some may classify as undesirable. Some can range from mere annoyances to downright negative. Which of these traits, if any, is ultimately determined by your lifestyle, personality, and your preference. Or better yet, accept that these traits are just the cost of having a fantastic companion in the home. Health Issues If one issue stands out about the Golden Retriever as truly bad, health issues are the biggest. Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers can be prone to severe and costly health issues. In researching on the internet, you will find that the Golden Retriever consistently ranks in the top tier of dogs with health issues ranging from mild to severe. There are very few things in life that are as heartbreaking as watching a loved one suffer and make no mistake, our Golden Retrievers quickly become our children and valued members of the family. Sure, it could be if you want a companion that fits the role of a protection dog for your family and home. If that is the case, I might suggest choosing a dog better suited to that role, like the German Shepherd. However, Golden Retrievers, as a whole, do not make good guard or protection dogs. It is more likely a Golden Retriever will greet or run from an intruder than attack. The Golden Retriever is known for its friendly and kind nature, and most do not possess the courageous and natural guardian instincts of other breeds. Activities that require a temperament more aligned to one of a gentle companion. Those who choose a Golden Retriever are not looking for a protection dog. Instead, these folks are looking for the quintessential family dog — a dog that is social, friendly, gentle, tolerant, and good with children. The stubbornness seems to be most concentrated mainly during the ages of 6 — 18 months or their rebellious teens. Like a human teenager, the Golden Retriever may become stubborn during this time and not listen to you. Your Golden will also test boundaries and your patience during this stage. Hormones play a big part during this time, and you may find increased humping from males and less tolerance with some dogs. Behaviors can run the spectrum from laziness to being downright rowdy. All of this is normal. Patience and continued training are essential. After 18 months, your Golden will be on the cusp of adulthood and will become calmer and much more manageable. However, expect the odd stubborn or defiant interaction from time to time, even in early adulthood. Still, overall your Golden will listen much better around two years of age. Bailey is in his stubborn phase at just over six months old. He was just too comfortable. Can Forget Their Size Golden Retrievers love people, and few dogs greet their families as enthusiastically as the friendly Golden. Golden Retrievers can even share their joyous greetings with perfect strangers, much to the dismay of many people. Unfortunately, small children, pets, and older people might not be well-equipped to handle this exuberance. In turn, some adults — especially the elderly — may take exception to being jumped on by a larger dog. Training is the key, and so is requesting the help of all visitors. Fortunately, Golden Retrievers are so easy to train and obedient that this behavior can easily be managed. Prone To Weight Gain Golden Retrievers can be food-obsessed, making them prone to weight gain or obesity. However, most Golden Retrievers are always hungry and will inhale any food you put in front of them. Now, this food drive can also be very much positive. Specifically, food is a high-value reward that can be a source of motivation and make training even more straightforward. But just barely. Physical and mental stimulation is a must to expend that abundance of overactive energy. Therefore, activities that incorporate both mental and physical stimulation are most effective. Golden Retrievers are not lazy dogs. Exercise depends on the individual dog, but an adult Golden Retriever might need one to two hours daily. Inadequate mental and physical stimulation leads to boredom, which, in turn, leads to mischievous and unwanted behaviors. Or they might dig in the backyard. Activities like rally, dock diving, scent work, obedience, and other canine sports are great outlets for expending excess energy for Golden Retrievers. Bailey is a high-energy, level-3 dog. The Ugly The ugly refers to some unpleasant traits found in Golden Retrievers. Each dog breed has its share. For example, bulldogs are known for drooling and flatulence. Newfoundlanders drool and try to swim in their water dishes, plus they are huge shedders. These traits are just the cost of having a dog. Our dogs have less. I have not personally encountered this, but some people have. What is the cause? Often it appears due to a skin allergy or skin problems. Golden Retrievers can be prone to skin issues, allergies, yeast infections, and bacteria. The better the skin condition, the less likely there will be an odor. No different than us. If we fail to shower or have some skin condition, often an aroma accompanies it. Golden Retrievers can also be prone to ear infections. While not overly serious, it can be a cause of an odor. Maintaining a good grooming regimen and being proactive with any issues can go a long way to preventing or mitigating any odor issues. Overbathing can strip body oils, which can potentially cause itchiness and skin issues. Shedding Shedding is probably the most prominent complaint people have about the Golden Retriever. Shedding is regular throughout most of the year and requires weekly brushing once to three times. However, Golden Retrievers have a double coat and will undergo significant shedding events blow their coats twice per year. Brushing is undoubtedly the most important maintenance item for Golden Retrievers. For those who value a neat place, this is an ugly trait. And, yes, hair sometimes becomes a condiment as well. Drooling Not all Golden Retrievers drool. But some do. Ours does. Especially after drinking out of the water dish. Expect puddles of water strewn throughout the house if you have a drooling Golden Retriever, especially around the water bowl. Drooling is also linked to food, and because the Golden Retriever is so food-driven, expect a lot of drooling anytime there is food in the vicinity. Like to Steal Stuff Golden Retrievers like to steal. Some consider this a bad trait. I do not. Remember, good, bad, and ugly are relative and depend solely on your lifestyle and preference. Remember, the breed was bred to retrieve and carry game birds gently. That trait will manifest itself in the Golden carry stuff throughout the house, depositing it on the floor somewhere or bringing it to you. What a Golden Retriever steals and carries often depends on availability, which could be almost anything. His favorites are blankets, towels, jackets, beanies or toques to Canadians , and mitts. Once deposited, he can have quite a collection and quickly mess up the house. He may then pick an item to chew on. Like shedding, those who like an ordered and neat house or forget to hide valuable shoes and slippers may find this trait an ugly one. I find it endearing. Anything and everything is a potential toy to Bailey. All dogs do to varying degrees. After all, dogs do not have hands, so they explore much of their world through their mouths, some more so than others. As discussed, Golden Retrievers were bred to pick up, carry and return downed waterfowl and game for sportspeople. Their mouthiness is instinctual. So, they often like to chew or mouth things. So, those traits can result in a Golden Retriever chewing on whatever is available to them. Often, they will mouth something not chew or rip it apart and cover it with their dog spit. Final Thoughts Like most things in life, much of what we interpret as good or bad is subjective. In contrast, an active household might instead revel in a companion who can keep up with their energy level. Managing expectations is essential, and that starts with knowing what to expect from the outset. And that includes all traits — the good, the bad, and the ugly. The first is that most of us get a dog for the love and joy they bring into our lives. Everything else is secondary to that. And in terms of love and joy, rest assured the Golden Retriever will bring that in abundance. Everything else — or the so-called cons — is inconsequential compared to all the fantastic gifts the Golden bestows upon us during its lifetime. So pick the dog that best fits your household and lifestyle. Seriously, Golden Retrievers tend to live each day as if they have just discovered a swimming pool full of tennis balls and bacon. And while that sunny disposition is appealing, there are pros and cons to consider before bringing one of these blondies into your home. That happy-go-lucky image is not an empty stereotype. This breed is ridiculously good-natured. Smart and easy to train. Their size, speed, agility, and intelligence make them a fun animal to train. Not only for tricks like slow-dancing with you to Adele, but also service-specific skills for limited-ability companions. Loves large families and small kids. Unlike half of your friends. Golden Retrievers adapt well to other pets including cats, rabbits, and other non-dog house pets with a more-the-merrier mentality. Eternal puppy. This breed loves to romp and play and is especially energetic for the first years of life. Not barky. Or bitey. But totally dreamy. This breed gets big pounds and will gladly get bigger if overfed. Needs vigorous exercise and a lot of it. Daily workouts of minutes are a must for this breed. Without it, they can become restless, overweight, and chewy. Holy shed. This breed has hair and a boatload of it. Having a Golden Retriever means having lint brushes. Not great at being alone in an apartment all day.

As trusted Labradoodle breeders, we take great care to give every visitor the best labradoodle puppies , including the best health characteristics, a gorgeous appearance, and an adoring personality. Australian Labradoodles are hypoallergenic, non-shedding dogs that are easy to train and easy to care for, providing companionship and love without a lot of work. This breed is intelligent, loyal and friendly, providing protection to their owners and family without excessive barking or aggression. Australian Labradoodle puppies exhibit the best characteristics of their parent breeds, the Labrador and the Poodle. Both breeds are famously intelligent, athletic and loyal, with quick learning attributes and mobility that makes them ideal service dogs. With the docile temperament of the Poodle and the athleticism and energy of the Labrador, the Australian Labradoodle is the perfect mix. As a loyal, friendly, gentle and low-upkeep breed, Australian Labradoodle puppies are great with children, and they are also an ideal breed for older couples. Our Australian Labradoodle puppies are bred from our own prized pets, carefully selected to eliminate health defects and enhance the best qualities of the breed. From the day they are born, we treat our Australian Labradoodles like a member of the family until they become a permanent part of yours. Take a look at the Labradoodle Puppies for sale online and select your new pet. Contact us for more information and have your new puppy personally delivered to your home in Chicago. Puppy Spotlight. Contact Ericas doodles is committed to helping our families bring a new family member into their lives. We have decided because families are struggling to stretch their dollars but still want to bring joy into their families we are reducing our prices effectively immediately. We have been professionally breeding Doodles over 20 years. We know this doodle breed inside and out. We are also state-licensed we are not a backyard breeder we stand behind our dogs. We are 45 minutes southwest of downtown Chicago. We are a family of 6 that loves the doodle breeds. My husband, myself and my 4 children are all involved in the daily care of our beautiful dogs. We have researched and selected the best quality dogs for our breeding program. Our dogs get lots of free time with our children to run free on our ten beautiful acres. Our puppies are raised in our home underfoot and get handled from the day they are born. We truly believe that our children are very instrumental in helping with the daily socializing of our babies. Socialization is the key for puppies developing into the lifelong companions that families can be proud to own. Our goal is to breed the most beautiful and healthy puppies that will bring happiness and joy in any family. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Chicago IL? We have answers. Give me an overview of Labradoodle puppies for sale in Chicago IL. An Australian Labradoodle is a designer dog specifically bred to be the ultimate family companion. How much are Labradoodles for sale Chicago? Will you only connect me with local Labradoodle breeders Chicago? One of the great things about using our network is that our team will connect you with great Labradoodle breeders and businesses around the country, not just in Chicago. How do you screen Labradoodle breeders in Chicago? Bottom line? Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places with Labradoodles Chicago? We made Uptown Puppies to help unite great breeders and businesses with great families—and to help you find a puppy that suits you perfectly. What is a puppy mill for Labradoodle puppies Chicago? Puppy mills are factories for dogs. At mills, dog health and safety go out the window—here, profits are king. When you buy a puppy from a mill, your dog is facing higher risks of genetic disease, behavioral issues, expensive veterinary intervention, and even a shorter life expectancy compared to other dogs. Are there any Labradoodle puppies in Chicago available now? What is the MatchMaker process like for Labradoodle Chicago? In our opinion and according to tons of our customers MatchMaker is the easiest, fastest and most fun way to find a puppy online. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Our home-based, family-owned Australian Labradoodle breeding program is located about 50 miles northwest of Chicago. We are committed to breeding authentic, multigenerational Australian Labradoodles with bloodlines originating from the two breeding research centers in Australia, Rutland Manor and Teagan Park. Multigen Australian Labradoodles are consistently non-shedding, allergy and asthma friendly, loving, calm, intuitive and at times quite comical. All of these qualities make them wonderful family companions as well as excellent therapy and service dogs. Raising puppies is a lot of fun but it is also a lot of work!! As a breeder, it is our responsibility to make the most of our puppy's critical growth periods and introduce them to as many new sights, sounds, smells and situations as possible. At birth, days 3 to 16 with Bio Sensor Stimulation, and right through to the day you take your new fur baby home we are handling and socializing our puppies. Ultimately, it is our goal is to provide you with a healthy, well socialized, intelligent, lovable, easily trained doodle that will be a joyful addition to your family for many years to come. I went to meet Mike to talk about an upcoming litter and Bailey was sitting by herself. I pretty much changed my mind and wanted her immediately. She was introduced to a 6 year old cocker spaniel with and IVDD condition and they became best friends. Great Temperament, Incredibly smart and absolutely beautiful addition to my family. Mike has been following up since I got her checking to see if I had any issues. His training packet was detailed and if you follow the crate training and feeding regiment you will have no problems. Angelica I brought home an F2 labradoodle from here. My pups has already learned several commands within a few weeks of having him. The breeder has plenty of space for the pups and you can tell that there is a lot of care put into the environment. My dog has a great temperament and deals with people well. Upon the first meeting my pups was excited to greet people you can tell he had been socialized well. Mike does well with communication and answers any questions. Highly recommended! Javier Sanchez Got my black lab from Mike trained. He is very good and is comfortable with a crate, walking and great temperament. Overall an awesome dog from a great breeder! Maura Eaton My 12 year old son did all the research on Mike and his company. He had 5 star reviews across the board. Once we saw the picture of Zoey, a Chocolate Labradoodle, we knew we had to meet her. Mike's business is clean, the dogs are all loved by him and well trained. Zoey was Stage 1 trained. This is my first dog as an adult and Mike was excellent in providing advice and recommendations. After we adopted Zoey, Mike would periodically check-in on how Zoey was adjusting to her new family and home. As you can see in the pictures, she is very happy. Mike knew her personality well - smart, sweet and social. A perfect fit and addition to our family. He worked on training with the puppy before we brought him home, which was a big help in the adjustment! I would recommend Mike to anyone looking for a labradoodle puppy. Our puppy has been the best addition to our family and we have enjoyed working with Mike. John Schmadeke We were looking for a labradoodle puppy from a reputable and experienced breeder. Mike was super helpful, and we really appreciated that he cared so much about things like genetics and DNA testing for the dogs. Mike has always been available to answer our questions and to give advice. Tom Riniker We found Mike to be very professional, knowledgeable, and helpful when we purchased a puppy from him. His kennels are clean and organized, and his puppies are well cared for. He really loves his career and it shows! He has followed up with us on numerous occasions regarding the health and well-being of our puppy, and I always know I can reach him if I have questions. Thanks for everything, Mike! Yunhua Chen I have bought a stage 2 F1 labradoodle from Mike. His name is Zen, and just like his name, he is a well-behaved and well-trained little man. He only cried about 15 - 30 minutes during the first few nights and later he was sound asleep. I highly recommend Mike as a breeder because not only he deeply cares about the dogs, but also he has the expertise to make the dog the perfect match for you. Michelle Balchunas Mike was absolutely wonderful to deal with and very helpful with adding a new puppy to our family. If you are looking for a lab to add to your family we would highly recommend working with Mike. Charles Arnold Mike was a great help with our new puppy, Archie. Great experience… and a great dog. Junie is gentle, kind and very loving. She's also extremely athletic and smart. Working with Mike was a very smooth process and his "dog siting" service has proved helpful as I do travel on occasion. Having someone I could trust to care for Junie is super helpful. Mike James I recently had the fortunate privilege of working with Mike to find my next pup. For multiple reasons, the breed is perfect for me - the temperament, lifestyle often on the water , and hypoallergenic fits a tough lifestyle. I without hesitation recommend you work with Mike if you are looking for an amazing pup and great support network. Charlie is so gentle. He was just outside getting petted by his fan club, the neighbors. He licks. I got him the week of July 4th he was outside during that noise. He looks at noise. One of his other puppies was the same way, gentle. Day one he knew the trail through the woods back to our house. Charlie is a beautiful Chocolate lab with the softest hair. I got him at 16 weeks. You have no idea how helpful that is. Of course you want a healthy dog. Took the shots like a champ. The Vet remarked how firm his joints were. Yes he lets you brush his teeth! He goes to the door when he has to go. Another reason I wanted a 16 week pup. Peanut butter to continue gentle licks on my fingers. He always gets small chicken or liver for COME. You should see him come. Is Charlie gentle because some hunting dogs have a gentle mouth or is he gentle because Mike treated him right? Oh do exactly as Mike says on the take home instructions, he knows his dogs! Highly recommend! We brought our pup home with all the documentation of his superior genetics. Mike also sends several handouts which help prepare you for puppy ownership and ensure a smooth transition for your pup to his new home! In addition to his exceptional breeding he is exceptionally well-trained. We opted for a stage 2 puppy and not only does he sit, lay down, stay, he has an incredibly calm demeanor and his additional exposure to other dogs was also incredible. He is so well-tempered and well-behaved due to his additional training. We are so happy and in love with our sweet boy! Brent Viditz-Ward We were looking for a chocolate lab puppy for a long time from a reputable breeder and our experience with Mike was wonderful. He took time to get to know us and make sure that the dog was going to a good home and is always available to answer questions, give advice, etc. I highly recommend Mike and his puppies! M Fowkes Mike is a fantastic breeder. We got an F1 puppy from Mike. She is a sweet beautiful girl. Before she was born Mike knew what the puppies would look like generally, and was really easy to communicate with. He is very responsive when I had a lot of questions. He is like that even now that my puppy is 4 months old…available to answer questions and be supportive. Josie Palma-Aurelio We stumbled on this website when we were looking for our next fur baby. All the reviews speak truthful about Mike. He calls us to check on Nala for updates and gives us pointers on how to take care of her. Nala is such a lovable puppy and we are so happy to have her. We highly recommend! Juan Tellez Mike was a great helping my family and puppy get adjusted to our home. You can tell Mike has a lot of dedication and love towards his dogs. Snoop has been a great addition to our family! We are first time pet owners and Mike handheld us through the entire adoption process. His reference material, responsiveness and his genuine care for the puppies has helped us navigate the critical period of 12 weeks smoothly. The puppy is super smart outwitted me in a game of hide n seek when he was 10 weeks old! He is a bundle of joy! We are first time pet owners and had a lot of questions! He is always enthusiastic in answering any questions we have and supporting us before and after getting the pup! He cares about his dogs and pups and it shows in the research he has done and the knowledge he has about them! He has a lot of information on his website about the breed, food, toys and snacks! He also gives a couple of handouts when we book a pup with him and some when we take them home! Those helped a lot in the preparation for our pup! When you take them home, he also gives you details about the breed, vaccination records, and DNA testing done for the litter! Our girl, Shuri, is very energetic and curious! She does really well when we train her and has already learnt so much! For anyone looking for a labradoodle, Mike is the best! Jocelyn I highly recommend Mike. We are first time dog owners and he made the process so easy for us. Our labradoodle has made an excellent addition to our family!

Vocality level 3 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament The Boxer is playful, exuberant, inquisitive, attentive, demonstrative, devoted, and outgoing; this dog is a perfect companion for an active family. Boxers can be stubborn, but are sensitive and responsive to commands. They may be assertive toward strange dogs, but are generally good with other family dogs and pets. Upkeep The Boxer needs daily mental and physical exertion. They likes to run, but their exercise needs can also be met with a good jog or long walk on leash. They do not do well in hot weather. Some snore. The coat needs only occasional brushing to remove dead hair. Health Major concerns: boxer cardiomyopathy, SAS, CHD Minor concerns: gastric torsion, hypothyroidism, corneal erosion, colitis Occasionally seen: brain tumors, degenerative myelopathy Suggested tests: thyroid, hip, cardiac Holter monitoring Life span: 8—10 years Note: Sensitive to heat. White boxers may be deaf. The drug acepromazine can cause severe reactions. History The Boxer derives from two central European breeds of dog that no longer exist: the larger Danziger Bullenbeiser and smaller Brabenter Bullenbeiser. Bullenbeiser means bull-biter, and these dogs were used to chase large game through the forest. This required a strong but agile dog with a broad powerful jaw and a recessed nose. In England, the Bulldog was the favored breed for the sport, whereas in Germany large mastiff-type dogs were used. Around the s, German hunters began a concerted effort to create a new breed, crossing their Bullenbeisers with mastiff-type dogs for size, terriers for tenacity, and, finally, Bulldogs. The result was a tough agile dog with a streamlined body and strong grip. By , an entirely new breed, the Boxer, had been established. Although the exact origin of the name Boxer is obscure, it may have been derived from the German Boxl. The Boxer was one of the first breeds to be employed as a police and military dog in Germany. By , the breed had become established as a general utility dog, family pet, and even show dog. The AKC recognized the breed soon after, but only in the s did the breed begin its steady rise to the top of the popularity charts, eventually peaking as the fourth most popular breed in America. Related Content. Raised in a military family have lived in many places, My father retired here, so Arizona is my home, Boxer Mom Pups AZ has been breeding and raising boxers for 12 years. American Bulldogs for 3 yrs. We offer short term visiting. We have more than 20 years of breeding experience, We search high and low to find the best homes to suit our dogs. We have older dogs also, some are retired breeding stock that are waiting to become a couch potato! For Pet - Only homes, please. Some are rescues that we acquired due to families moving and can't take them or abandoned pets. All have been vet checked and are healthy and ready to go to their forever home. Let us know what you're looking for and we'll try to fit you with the right companion. We also have several males up for stud service, and breed back to our male pups on request and approval! When you choose your new companion, our relationship doesn't stop, we are available for any questions or concerns you may have just call or text. I have helped over the phone and in person with the birthing process with new moms and owners. We love getting pictures, visits as the pups grow along getting your feedback on our testimonial page about your experience with us! Watch Us In Action! About BRLA Boxer Rescue Los Angeles, a c 3 non-profit founded in , is funded by donations, driven by volunteers and committed to helping Boxers in need find loving homes and to help people looking to provide homes, find the Boxer that fits them best. Our mission for every adoption is a responsible lifetime match. All Boxers available for adoption are cared for in one location. Adoptions are scheduled by appointment. When you see a candidate posted on our Available Dogs page that has profile information that matches you, an adoption application should then be submitted. If your profile is a potential match to the Boxer candidate we then set up a virtual face to face interview to discuss in more detail. If we have a good pre-match an appointment will be made to come to BRLA and meet your candidate. Our adoption team will do introductions and test for compatibility to hopefully make a responsible lifetime match. You can adopt to save a life. You can donate to help us save lives. We are funded solely by private donations which are desperately need to house, feed, take care of routine medical and to be able to take on any medical needed to give a Boxer the second chance they deserve. You can save a life. All visits to our kennel for adoption or volunteering are by appointment only. A Few of our Featured Boxers.

We are the proud parents of the smartest, sweetest, most laid back lab, Gracie. Steve Karp and family are incredible to work with and truly care for their puppies and the families who adopt from them. If I could give stars, I would! If you're searching for a lab, look no further. Kara Bunbury We cannot say enough great things about M. Steve is very hands on throughout the entire process- sending weekly updates until the pups come home and remaining in contact thereafter. Everywhere we go people ask what breeder he came from. We got many very cute updates on our soon to be little puppy. We feel honored to be apart of the Michigan Elite Labrador family! Jill Price We were looking for a pure bred lab but were very skeptical about many breeders until we found Michigan Elite Labs. We knew after our first contact with them we found the breeder we were looking for. Stan is 10 months old and we love him to pieces. If you are looking for a pure bred lab you have found the perfect breeder. We would never think of going anywhere but Michigan Elite to get a Lab. Steve is always just a phone call away if you have any questions. Steve is very knowledgeable about his Labrador Retrievers. If you want an amazing Labrador puppy check out Michigan Elite Labradors you will be glad you did! From the first contact with Steve, you are reassured with their dedication to the breed and the MEL family that you become a part of. It's said that one of the best signs of a "good product" is repeat customers. We're proud to be an example of that, with 2 MEL dogs in our home. Temperament, physical health and the characteristics of MEL dogs are perfection. The added benefit of the MEL owners group is also a great perk. We've made amazing friends through the group, which is reinforced each year at the annual reunion. I would not hesitate to recommend Michigan Elite Labradors to family and friends! We looked at all of the photos and knew we would get a beautiful pup but didnt expect all of the wonderful traits they would have. We ended up getting 2! They are beyond my wildest dreams of what a pet should be.So intuitive! When ive had issues, steve has been a phone call away with the answers. Best babies around.You wont be sorry! I believe we were part his second litter and his biggest litter with Cocco and Chopper 14 pups. Both of the parents were beautiful and on site when we went to pick out our first "Pink Collar" girl. We picked up our second "Pink Collar" girl in late .They have become best friends from the beginning. They have never fought or growled at each other and play very well together. The Karp's are very caring and knowledgeable about the Labrador breed. Any questions I have ever had Steve has always been there to guide me and teach me. His extended MEL family has been very inspiring and amusing as we all watch the pups grow into beautiful pets. Kris Thompson Michigan Elite Labradors are wonderful. We had a great experience working with the Karp family. Our little black lab has brought us so many blessings! They are the most wonderful family and breeders. They are extremely reputable and involved with every pup. Steve is always available to you. I called so many times. He is conscientious and really cares about where his puppies go. He is beyond gorgeous. As a matter of fact, I can honestly say that I have never seen better looking labs. Elite labs are very intelligent and have excellent temperaments. Jax was potty trained right away. When I got a trainer, He learned everything immediately. She was so impressed with him and shocked how well he did. She trains Leader of the Blinds dogs so it was a huge compliment coming from her. We have people stop us everywhere to ask if he is a show dog. One of them was a breeder. Another huge bonus is the all the relationships we have made amongst the Elite family. I love all the stories and pictures. Many of us got together for a Michigan Elite Lab's Reunion. All the dogs were gorgeous fun and well behaved. Even all the parents were a blast. I could go on and on about Michigan Elite Labs, but most important is the fact I would never get a dog from anyone else! We have AKC English Lab puppies for sale Our goal here at Winter Valley Labs is to breed excellent dual purpose AKC Labrador Retriever puppies that make great companions and family pets, that also have the ability to excel in the field as well as show ring. And of course, in our hearts. We breed for quality, not quantity. We breed English Lab puppies! Each of our litters is carefully planed and bred with purpose. We are a small breeder in Hatley, Wisconsin. Our love and passion for Labrador Retrievers drives us to better the breed and provide families with healthy, happy, perfect pets, companions and hunters. We have been breeding labs for over 10 years, and look forward to that number growing. We bred our first litter in January of .We hope to grow in size now that we have the room for it. We love to take the dogs out bird hunting, and am excited to get them started on waterfowl this year as we are located on the river. I have been around dogs my whole life, but the lab has always been my favorite. I started studying at the UW of Stevens Point for Wildlife Ecology and Captive Wildlife management, and had done some study in veterinarian medicine but complications with pregnancy forced me out. I decided after my first son was born that I wanted to stay at home with my babies anyways both human and canine. So I am now a stay at home mom for all of our babies. Prior to that I had worked at an animal shelter as well as a grooming and boarding facility. I am doing some online studies for genetics and animal behavior, as I am always striving to be very well educated with the dogs. I am an avid hunter and LOVE spending the days outside with the dogs. Please note; We do not breed silvers, charcoals or champagne. We do not breed labradoodles, golden labs or any other designer breed. We do have English lab puppies for sale- We breed Fox red lab puppies, yellow lab puppies, black lab puppies, chocolate lab puppies and white lab puppies. Fox red and white labs are registered as yellow labs! These ARE akc recognized unlike the dilute colors. Click here to see what english lab puppies we have that are ready to go and looking for their loving forever homes! Our focus is on the English Lab breed. Please contact us for more information on any of our wonderful English Lab puppies, or upcoming and planned litters! We will help you find the perfect puppy for your family! All of our English Lab puppies are vet checked with the vaccines that are needed and also wormed. They also have their dewclaws removed. If in any case a dew claw, or partial dew claw grows back, that will be the buyers responsibility to take care of, if they feel the need to do so. This can be done at the time of spaying or neutering. This is not a common thing. All of our English Lab Puppies are placed with limited registration Pet homes only If you are looking for full registration Breeding rights Do not wait until pickup day to discuss this with us. For nearly 50 years we have produced English Labradors in the true style of the all-around dog they were meant to be. Our ultimate goal has been a beautiful dog conforming to breed standards with soundness of temperament and body. Our Labradors retain the hunting ability that has made them the supreme hunting retriever. This intelligent, well-tempered dog is a perfect family companion and service dog. We are pleased to not only have many of our On The Bluff Labradors in pet, show and hunting homes, but also used as guide dogs for the disabled and specialist for airscent detection. Our breeding program strives for perfection in every litter. We use the highest quality stud dogs with a background of multiple Grand Champions. We combine their linage with the outstanding genetics of our females. The result are not just cute, adorable puppies, but dogs that can be well trained, healthy companions for a lifetime. We have never lost sight of our initial goal to produce the perfect Labrador- in mind and body. Feel free to email us for additional information or to get on a waiting list for one of our puppies. Staffed by professional trainers- each puppy receives several weeks and hundreds of hours of individual lessons- Obedience Training, House Living Training, Group Socialization, and Outside Etiquette. We believe our unique training methods and individualized programs sets us apart from any other breeder. Here you will find many adorable pictures of our current puppies. Visit our Facebook page for more pics! Louis, and Indianapolis to name just a few. All of our lab puppies in Chicago and St. Louis for sale are loved unconditionally from the minute they are born up until the day they join their new families. As a responsible and reputable lab breeder in Illinois, we genetically health test all of our Labrador retrievers in St. Louis to ensure that we are only producing healthy Labrador puppies for sale. If you are looking to add a happy, healthy, well-loved, and well-cared-for lab puppy to your family, you have come to the right place! We operate quite a bit differently than the majority of other breeders. We hold a VERY high standard here in regards to health, conformation and temperament. We always have a goal in mind when we perform a breeding. Those breeders are not breeding to better the Labrador breed or produce quality, well-bred lab puppies, they are simply producing puppies to sell and make a profit from. We own mostly females here and we use outside males stud service to cover our females. This gives us a huge advantage when choosing the perfect male for a particular female. Each female will need something different in a mate and using one male will not be sufficient for every female if a breeder is true to themselves and is breeding for a purpose. For example, you have a chocolate female but she is lacking in something whether it be coat, bone, length of leg, too long of loin, carries her tail too high, eye color is too light, etc. She is going to need a specific male to help improve those imperfections. If you have one or even a couple of males on your property and none of them have what your female needs, you are not doing the breed any justice by mating two dogs together that do not compliment each other correctly. Breeding correctly and responsibly can be very complicated, stressful and very expensive. Another important thing to consider is health testing. Do you know the genetics of your female and your male? Is one or the other or maybe both of them carriers of a certain genetic disease? Will you be producing affected lab puppies by mating these two dogs together? Genetic testing is extremely important and necessary! We specialize in producing lab puppies from high quality show lines which are commonly known as the English Labrador Retrievers. We have also been blessed with some exceptionally well bred American Labrador Retrievers which can be referred to as field labs. All of our lab puppies for sale are loved unconditionally from the minute they are born up until the day they join their new families. As a responsible and reputable lab breeder in Illinois, we genetically health test all of our labrador retrievers to ensure that we are only producing healthy labrador puppies for sale. If you are looking to add a happy, healthy, well loved and well cared for lab puppy to your family, you have come to the right place! We would love for you to join our lab puppy family and see for yourself why we are one of the best Labrador breeders in Illinois. We have chocolate, black and yellow puppies available now as well as some older pups! We only produce lab puppies in the 3 recognized colors by the american kennel club and labrador retriever club. We are dedicated to improving and protecting the labrador retriever breed. If you love labrador retrievers and would like to bring one into your family, you have come to the right place! Louis and Chicago are a popular choice for individuals who need companionship, active families, hunters and also for the serious competitor.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. While most people associate training with puppies, the reality is that you can learn how to train a 1 year old German Shepherd using the proper techniques. And, you might even find that an adult German Shepherd is easier to train than a young puppy because they have more attention span and self-control. A 1-year-old German Shepherd may still show many puppylike behaviors, but also have behavior you find troubling in other ways. He might test his independence and show undesirable behaviors, or has never been given proper training to understand how to live in a home. These tips are useful for owners that have recently adopted an adult dog, or they can be used to train an older dog that needs to gain new skills. This could prove more challenging than socializing a puppy because your 1-year-old German Shepherd may have developed some reactivity or fears around certain triggers. You must take things slowly when socializing. Keep your dog at a safe distance from new animals or people and reward him as he pays attention to you rather than the other people or pets. Step back and go to a place your dog feels safe. Remember to be patient, give plenty of extra rewards, and understand that setbacks might happen. You might not have the most social companion in the world, but you can definitely help your pet learn to become friendlier and less scared source. Keeping your dog safe is a priority. So, teach him to come on command, and practice this essential command until your dog returns to you… Every time. Teach this on a short or long leash first to prevent them from making mistakes and hindering their training to the command. Follow the German Shepherd Training at Home essentials for teaching them their basic commands. Stay Consistent When training your 1-year-old German Shepherd, there are some basic steps you can take to improve your success rate. Your one-year-old dog needs consistency. If you occasionally reward unwanted behaviors, such as jumping, those behaviors will continue. Only reward behaviors you like, such as sitting by the door to greet guests. You must respond the same to the unwanted behavior in order for your dog to learn the expectations you have. Instead, use unique commands for each action. If you need ideas of what to call your commands, then search for the word in this List of German Shepherd Commands. Burn those massive energy reserves that seem to be built into every young German Shepherd. Walk your dog at least 45 minutes to 1 hour twice a day. But know that even this amount of exercise is generally too little for a German Shepherd. You could also start to train your pet for nose work and tracking for fun and competition. One-year-old German Shepherds have a lot of energy. Your one year old dog also needs time to chew on appropriate toys to help release their stress and provide them with an outlet for their energy. Provide a tough German Shepherd chew toy that helps keep them calm. Reward based training works on the principle of rewarding good behaviors so that your dog wants to repeat them in order to get a treat, or the reward some owners use special toys during training for dogs not motivated by food. But, remember to keep the treat as a reward that is used for special occasions, like your training. If you have the treat in your hand all the time to reward them they will begin to listen to you only when he sees a treat. Using healthy, tasty treats and lots of verbal praise are highly effective training methods for a one-year-old dog. Enroll in a supportive online brain training and obedience class to practice your training at home and to keep things fun and upbeat. Instead of the same old training routine every day, incorporate interesting German Shepherd games to help teach your dogs the basics. Games are useful training for a 1-year-old German Shepherd because they take advantage of the energy and youthfulness that your dog still has. They also help get your dog excited about learning and create a stronger connection between you and your German Shepherd. Take a time off, a mini-vacation day, to give him a break. For example, give him an extra special treat just for looking at the nail clipper or being in the same room with it. Then, give him a treat when he sniffs it or walks over to it. Counter-conditioning, when done correctly, will result in a more confident companion and a more resilient pet. This could include unwanted behaviors, such as jumping on guests or pulling on the leash. They could have developed bad habits that need to be extinguished so that you can live comfortably with them. Training your dog is a life-long process. It should be ongoing no matter what the age of your German Shepherd. And, training helps avoid an out-of-control German Shepherd. Special Considerations While your new dog may arrive with some problem behaviors your breed is highly trainable and wants to please you. These tips will help you teach your German Shepherd the appropriate behaviors you want in your home. Start teaching your one-year-old dog the rules for your home as soon as they arrive and are comfortable. Be sure everyone in your family is on the same page for training. It will be easier to train your German Shepherd when everyone agrees on appropriate behaviors and uses the same commands and rewards. They will learn faster and retain their training longer. Take the time to know the unique personality of your dog to help them excel at training and living with you. Take into account any health issues you might be unaware of. Get your dog checked by your veterinarian. They may have problems with obedience due to underlying health issues, like painful hips. They come with their own background history that can make them nervous about their new surroundings and even their new owners. It may take months for your dog to become comfortable in their new home. Training is an excellent way to bond with your German Shepherd and understand him more. A new German Shepherd can be a challenge without the right help. And a one-year-old GSD needs all the help you can give tem to become a well-mannered companion. Can you really afford to not help your new German Shepherd learn all they can to live with you? References and Resources Nicholas, Jason. Buzhardt, Lynn. Bender, Amy. Gibeault, Stephanie. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Final Thoughts When your 1 year old German Shepherd looks or behaves differently from the common descriptions you may find on the Net, you start worrying. You want to go to the vet immediately and spend a lot of time asking questions. Most often, your veterinarian does not find anything bad, but in a while, the situation repeats. However, there are some vital things that you need to know about your pet to feel calm and relaxed. Your pup is almost full-sized now, but it needs some more time to mature and develop emotionally. Reinforcing good habits and giving proper care can help much. We have prepared a set of helpful tips to help you ensure that everything is OK, no matter whether it was born in your household or you adopted it later. Now, it is about its adult size and weight. You should know that there are differences between male and female dogs. Your boy Shepherd weighs lbs kg , and the girl doggy can weigh lbs kg. Some dogs can be lighter or heavier at this age, but you need to measure their weight just once a week to ensure that they are not overweight or underweight because many health problems may start here. However, if you do weigh your pup regularly, you may notice that gaining weight has already slowed down. Female Shepherds almost reach their full adult weight while males continue growing muscles. Even if you notice the slow-down in your male doggy, it is a pause, not a stop. They continue to become heavier until they are two. The height of your pup at one year of age also varies between males and females. The boy is usually inches cm tall, while the girl is shorter at its withers — inches cm. However, in some dogs, the ears may stand upright at the age of eight months or even later. However, at one year, floppy ears in your dog may mean either damage to the cartilage and its poor development or doubtful purity of the breed. Anyway, you have to consult your vet about what to do next. Hormonal changes and seasonal reasons may cause immense loss of fur. That is why these dogs are often called German Shedders. Your pup had stopped teething by the time it reached 6 months. However, you must not be surprised if it lasts until one year. Every doggy is different, and their dental development stages may vary. In general, at the age of one year, you may expect a total of 42 white, shiny, and sharp adult teeth in your dog. In fact, it can vary for different animals, too. Even if you managed to establish close bonds with your doggy by this time, you may occasionally encounter misbehavior, aggression, and testing its independence and your leadership. It only means that you need to engage your four-pawed friend as much as possible and continue its basic training. Be aware of possible casts of aggression toward strangers. It can happen when your pup is bored, excited, or poorly socialized. Another issue is chewing up the furniture and clothes or biting and nipping. Even if your doggy is not teething now anymore, there may be such problems. Your Shepherd tries to attract your attention inappropriately, so you need to be patient and stop such attempts as soon as you see them. If you feel that your GS will continue with such behavior, contact an experienced dog trainer. However, the trend for your puppy is to calm down around the age of one year. So, you will see grown-up behavior very soon. The aim of all German Shepherds is to herd and guard, and the guardian breeds reach full maturity later than other breeds. Shepherds are working dogs , so it takes more time for them to set close social bonds with their counterparts and pack members because they are aimed at defending flocks from large predators. Your pup may not seem too confident. Confidence develops between 1 and 3 years of age. Nurturing is equally important. Even if your doggy has individual characteristics relevant to its breed and age, such as being friendly, reserved, stubborn or cooperative, shy or bold, you can develop its personality and build up the desired behavioral patterns with other people, changing places, or animals around. Make your training and cooperation rewarding. The opportunities for your doggy to become a happy and loyal companion are unlimited. Other behavioral patterns include exercising, sleeping, and walking. Your German Shepherd is very strong and energetic at this age, so it needs at least two hours of exercise per day. They can include an hour of walking 5 minutes per every month of age and off-lead exercises in a safe area. Your pup may get bored very fast, so play and train it in turn to make a variety. Your pup does not require as much sleeping time as before because it is curious, active, and investigating. The number of hours it may need per day reduces to instead of as before. However, even if your doggy sleeps more than 18 hours, it can be a norm because the sleeping patterns and needs can differ between dogs, and other factors may influence sleep time. However, you need a veterinarian check-up just once a year to ensure everything is going on properly. You must also watch out for unusual signs that may indicate health problems. They include weight loss, personality changes, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, sneezing and coughing, gagging, excessive urination, thirst, itchy skin, urination difficulties, swollen gums, runny nose and eyes, spelling disorders, and anything that your doggy unexpectedly starts displaying. Functional disorders can appear later, at 5 or 6 years old. However, you need to know that your pup at this age can experience ear infection, kennel cough, Lyme disease, heartworm, influenza, and fleas or ticks invasions. Some of these issues can be severe and even life-threatening. Regular checkups can prevent most health disorders. Apply heartworm treats and collars against ticks and fleas if your vet prescribed it. This time also requires booster shots of the main vaccines, such as rabies, distemper, and parvovirus. Your vet may tell you about the specific law regulations against rabies in your area that you need to observe. Your vet can also recommend titer testing to understand whether your dog has acquired enough immunity from puppy vaccinations. You may also need to renew the pet insurance for cases when your dog needs expensive treatment or faces life-threatening conditions. For example, you must be aware of gastric dilatation volvulus or bloat threat. Your pup may also suffer from hip dysplasia later; this insurance can cover medical symptom management. Your insurance policy should also relate to public liability if your doggy bites somebody or causes damage to their belongings. The age of one year is also crucial for deciding to spay or neuter your dog. However, consider all pros and cons of this procedure at this age. Since your pup continues growing, any procedures that can cause hormonal changes can lead to joint disorders. So, many vets recommend male neutering after the dog becomes completely mature. Anyway, talk to experts and get advice from them. As for females, your vet can recommend spaying your girl after its first heat cycle without letting it enter the next one. Feeding Your 1 year old GSD is a strong and highly energetic animal. It needs an appropriate diet to grow and stay healthy. Talk to your vet and choose the best variant of adult food for your doggy. Overfeeding can lead to health problems, so try to schedule meals properly. Your dog needs feeding two or three times per day. The common amount per day is cups. You have to spread it equally between the meals. To spread the meals in time, feed your pup at 10 a. Feeding can provide a new milestone at this age. It is a transition to adult food. While your German Shepherd is a puppy, it needs high-caloric food to grow. Though now, it does not grow so quickly and intensively. It means they need fewer calories than puppies to avoid overweighting. However, if your pup is still growing too rapidly, you need to reduce the amount of food to avoid joint problems. The transition to a new diet can be gradual if possible. It can be implemented for several days. Start with giving your dog 1 part of the new food and 3 parts of the old food for several days. Then, transit to equal parts of old and new food in the next two days. At last, your doggy can eat 1 part of the old and 3 parts of the new food without any digestion problems. Now, you can end up rejecting the old food altogether. When you decide how much food to offer your doggy, consider its levels of physical activity. Less active pups should eat less to avoid overweighting. Provide your doggy with enough water. Generally, a young German Shepherd needs 0. So, if your pup weighs about 70 pounds 32 kg , it will need ounces 1. Training Your 1 year old German Shepherd is still emotionally unstable and immature, so you have to continue training to promote proper behavior and reduce nervousness. You must focus on two types of training now — obedience training and building up working habits. When you continue obedience training, reinforce rewarding behavior by treating your pup positively. Remember that your Shepherd can get bored and restless without engagement. When your pup displays bad behavioral patterns, use distractions and redirect its attention to something more desirable. While training, reward its positive behavior with praise, patting, and treats. Never overdo training and make calming pauses. Ignore demanding behavior, such as pawing, jumping, or barking. Do not apply physical punishment, and never yell at your pup. If your dog has had an accident, never rub its nose in it. Your encouragement should be continuous but do not laugh or giggle when your doggy does something inappropriate. Stop the unwanted behavior immediately, but never punish your pet after the fact. Remember that teaching your German Shepherd new tricks and advanced commands is never too late. Of course, it should have acquired the simplest skills and obedience habits by this time. Though you may even find it easier to work with your doggy at this age because it has a longer attention span and more self-control now. In fact, dogs can learn something new at any age. That is why it is important to continue training your pup on its way to maturity. Your doggy needs a lot of exercise at this age — not less than two hours per day. Walking can take about one hour 5 minutes for every month of its life. You may divide this time into two walking sessions during the day. Other exercises must include playing and training. Mental stimulation and socialization are also important parts of exercising. How much should a 1 year old German Shepherd eat? Your dog is still growing, but this process slows down. The overall amount of food your pet needs per day is cups divided between 2 or 3 meals. Never feed your dog once a day — it may have digestion problems. It has to be funny, alert, and loyal. It is individual. So, follow the tips presented in this article and recommendations from your vet and dog trainer. This age is not the easiest for a dog owner. You have to be patient and consistent. However, if you are persistent, you will soon get an intelligent, obedient, and loyal companion. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Should I be booking spay or neuter surgery? A one year old German Shepherd is nearly full-sized physically, but emotionally they still have a lot of maturing to do. How much should a 1 year old German Shepherd weigh? A male German Shepherd typically weighs between 60 and 84 pounds on his first birthday. And a one year old female German Shepherd usually weighs between 46 and 68 pounds. Since females mature faster than males, her weight on her first birthday is closer to her final adult weight than her brothers are. When do German Shepherds stop growing? In fact, females may only gain a couple more pounds after her first birthday — the ideal weight range for adult female GSDs is 50 to 70 pounds. Male German Shepherds also stop gaining weight as rapidly after they turn one. But, in common with other large and giant dog breeds, this tends to be a pause, rather than an end to growing. Fully grown male GSDs weigh between 65 and 90 pounds. German Shepherd puppies need a diet which is specific to their age, and predicted adult weight. And the smallest females are likely to be fully grown. This article can help you choose an adult diet for your year-old German Shepherd. If possible, transition your dog onto their new diet gradually over a period of several days. Give them 3 parts old food to 1 part new food on days 1 and 2. Then equal parts old and new food on days 3 and 4. And finally, 1 part old food to 3 parts new food on days 5 and 6, before ditching the old food altogether. Your puppy is now eating like an adult! German Shepherds were originally developed as the ultimate herding and guardian breed, and guardian breeds tend to reach emotional maturity later than other dogs. As working dogs, this results in a longer window to form a close social bond with their flock — which gives them the emotional motivation to defend it against large predators. Their temperament is going to continue developing for many months yet. One study of German Shepherd behavioral development found that confidence continues to increase significantly between their 1st and 3rd birthdays. There is also a corresponding decline in nervousness and jumpy reactions. There are some traits we think of as being innately German Shepherd, but nurture is just as important as nature in determining how friendly or reserved, cooperative or stubborn, bold or shy, your GSD is. Keep building up a pattern of positive experiences with places, people and other animals. And use training to build their confidence and make cooperation with you rewarding. Training a 1 year old German Shepherd Your year old German Shepherd Dog may look fully grown, but emotionally they are still immature, and their confidence is still under developed. There are two important kinds of training for a 1 year old German Shepherd: 1. Keep rewarding good behavior and good decisions, to get more of both in the future and turn them into established habits. These articles will help you train a 1 year old German Shepherd with confidence:. Your German Shepherd Puppy: 8 Weeks To 1 Year Old Apr 08, If you're interested in what the progression of your puppy from 8 weeks to 1 year should look like, and how to achieve it; you've come to the right place. If you're expecting a timeline of what achievements you should hit at specific times, this isn't it. All puppies and dogs learn at different rates based on everything from the drive level, interests in reward, your level of training skill etc. Instead of focusing on what tricks and obedience positions your puppy learns, focus on building a relationship with your puppy. Millions of people have adult dogs who won't let them cut their nails or bathe them and must go to a professional groomer. There's nothing wrong with using a groomer's services, but if you must because your dog won't allow you to, it's because you didn't bond with the dog and condition it as a puppy. To begin building a foundation takes a lot of treats, time, socialization, conditioning, and focus training to get engagement. Let's start with socialization. Socialization doesn't mean you let your puppy play with random dogs and strangers. It's quite the opposite. Socialization means you desensitize your puppy to the presence of other dogs and people to the point it doesn't acknowledge them. Other dogs and people become background noise that they're uninterested in. If you view socialization as getting a puppy to love everything, everyone, and every dog they see, you won't have their engagement. If you don't have their engagement on you, they aren't going to listen to you. You'll be the owner who gets drug down the street every time your dog wants to say "hi" to a stranger or new dog. Not only that, but not every stranger is friendly, nor is every dog. It's better to train your puppy to completely ignore everything except you on your walks. Since we've brushed up on what socialization should be and why, let's get into engagement. Engagement means that your dog looks to you. When you say their name, you have their undivided attention. They are looking at you, waiting for instruction. If you've ever had a dog, not come when called, 9 times out of 10 it was doing something it deemed more engaging than looking to you. That means to your dog, that other thing they were doing was more important than anything you had to say or wanted them to do. That becomes life threatening if a dog deems that engaging with the dog across the street is more important than coming when called. So how do you build engagement? Well, thankfully, it's easy! Start from day one by saying your pup's name. If they look at you, click your clicker or say "yes" and give them a treat. If they come to you, even better, give them a treat for looking at you, and another for coming. Your job is to court their attention and reward every time you get it. Before long, your puppy will look to you for everything. Once that happens, training can begin. If you skip this step, you will notice that during training your puppy may sit for you, take the treat, then decide to run around or sniff the ground etc. Those things means that training will take longer because you don't have engagement. Now that you've gotten the engagement you need, start training by making everything a learning experience and a game. You should be upbeat and excited. When you teach your dog to sit, mark the behavior with a click or a yes and reward with a treat excitedly. This only serves to increase engagement. You're not only a treat machine, you're also a fun friend. The more fun you are, the less fun distractions are. You can even begin to blend this into socialization. For example, your puppy sees another dog being walked across the street and starts to focus on them. You call their name, they look at you because you give treats for engagement, and you're way more fun than playing with another dog they don't even know across the street. This is the corner stone of having a dog who obeys commands every time, and not just when there's no distractions around or when they feel it's convenient. We've all either said, or have heard people say "Well, he usually does it when it's just us! Remember, while you're building this bond, trust, and engagement, you also need to start conditioning your puppy. Lift all 4 paws. Open the mouth. Check their ears. Touch their undersides. Open their eyes.This is the time to condition your puppy to being examined, medicated, temperature checked, bathed, nails clipped or dremeled etc. Lastly, during this time, you should be trying your hardest to build drive to play tug with a ball on a rope or tug. Food is great, but many dogs have more prey drive than food drive. If you have such a dog, a ball on a rope or tug is a powerful training agent. It also helps build a bond because puppies love food, but puppies also love to play. Later in life, you'll find it easier to stuff a ball in your pocket than a full pouch of treats as well. All of this sounds like an informal amalgamation of building trust, building a bond, training, desensitization, conditioning, building engagement and drive etc. But that's because this is exactly what raising a puppy in the most efficient and most reliable way possible is. Taking your time and blending all these aspects together until they're one and the same. Trying to create a schedule of when a puppy should know this, or that will not nearly be as fun for you or the puppy. It'll only make you both frustrated and feel like you're failing. But if you take your time, by 12 months, your puppy will know everything you would've put on that schedule, have bonded with you, think training and learning new things is fun, and be a pleasure to groom and vet! If you enjoyed this article, please leave a like and share. Thank you.

Fact checked by Emily Estep Emily Estep is a biologist and fact checker focused on environmental sciences. Emily has been a proofreader and editor at a variety of online media outlets over the past decade and has reviewed more than articles for The Spruce Pets for factual accuracy. All growing puppies need proper nutrition. However, choosing the right diet for your puppy can be an overwhelming task. When you choose to feed your puppy home-prepared food, it takes a certain amount of commitment on your part. Make sure you have the time to prepare the food properly and on a regular basis. There's a lot you need to know before you can start feeding your dog an appropriate homemade diet. Like humans, dogs have specific caloric requirements and need certain vitamins and minerals to stay healthy. Puppies have even more specific needs in order to grow at an appropriate rate and thrive. The food you feed your puppy must be complete and balanced. It must also be designed to support growth. One of the biggest mistakes pet owners make when they decide to feed home-prepared diets is not following the right recipes or, not following a recipe at all. Preparing the right puppy diet is about more than just feeding enough calories. It must also have the proper balance of protein, fat, and calories for a growing puppy. When you begin to develop a home-prepared diet, make sure your puppy gets everything it needs in its diet to keep it as healthy as possible and help it grow. The best way to do this is to consult with your veterinarian. You might even want to ask for a referral to a veterinary nutritionist. Working with a vet, you can design a diet that meets all of your puppy's nutritional needs. Your vet may have recipes for you to use or may guide you to a website like BalanceIT. These websites have recipes developed by veterinary nutritionists. They can help you choose a diet that is complete and balanced but also meets other needs. In many cases, you can choose your preferred ingredients or find formulas designed for puppies with specific needs like large breeds or health issues like allergies. How to Prepare Homemade Puppy Food In general, puppies need about twice as many calories per day than their adult counterparts. According to the Committee on Nutrient Requirements of Cats and Dogs of the National Academy of Science, a pound puppy that is expected to weigh 33 pounds at adulthood needs to eat about calories per day. In addition, puppies need more protein, fat, vitamins and minerals than adult dogs. Many owners who feed home-prepared diets set up a regular schedule , setting aside time weekly or monthly to prepare and portion the diet. The food can be prepared in bulk and portioned into containers one container per meal makes it extra-easy. You can keep meals frozen for several months or refrigerated for about 5 days. When the supply of pre-prepared meals runs low, it's time to make a new batch. If you like to feed a variety of foods, you can make multiple batches and color code by ingredients, rotating out the different meals. Remember to increase portions appropriately as your puppy grows. Raw Diets for Puppies There's no doubt that home-cooked diets for puppies can be healthy when done correctly, but what about raw food? There is much controversy over raw food for dogs. The AVMA and other agencies warn of the risks of dangerous pathogens in raw pet food. Some other experts see the potential benefits of raw food for healthy adult dogs. However, puppies are a different story. Raw food may contain dangerous pathogens that can lead to illness in people and some dogs. Like children, young animals may not have the immune systems to fight off pathogens found in raw food. If you feel you can safely handle raw food and you are willing to assume the risks, talk to your veterinarian about transitioning to raw food when your puppy gets older. In the beginning, you might choose to offer a combination of cooked and raw foods to see how it works out. Raw diets should never be fed to dogs coming into contact with immunocompromised humans. In addition, raw diets are not recommended for dogs with immune system issues. As owners become more aware of what is in some mainstream commercial dog foods, home cooking becomes more and more appealing. There are many reasons to make the switch from commercial kibble or canned food to wholesome home cooked food and many benefits to doing so. A tasty and nourishing dish: Fresh cuts of beef with a mixture of spinach greens, lima beans, baby carrots, and peas, along with tri-color quinoa and scrambled eggs, blueberries, and a dash of cottage cheese. This is just one of the wonderful meals you can make for your Poodle. Home cooking can save you money. The extent money saving by making homemade food will vary depending on what sort of ingredients you opt for. Top-grade cuts of beef and certain types of fish like salmon along with fresh produce can end up being a little pricey. If you choose to make meals with turkey or chicken as the base or whitefish and opt for some frozen veggies, you can end up saving quite a bit. Meal prepping is encouraged. Some people simply love to be in the kitchen and meals certainly can be cooked fresh each day. You can cook in bulk and keep portions in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and in the freezer for up to 3 months. Most recipes are not cut in stone. There are lots of ways to adjust meals to please picker eaters or just to try out new flavors. One of the great things about home cooking for Poodle puppies or adult dogs is that many exceptional meals can be made with simple methods: steaming, boiling, frying, and baking and with the use of common kitchen tools like stirring spoons, mixing bowls, and cutting knives. Ingredients are ones you can pick up along with your own food. For most recipes, ingredients can be found in the same supermarket where you purchase your own food. Unless you are making specialty treats, there is no need to go to a specialty food store. Potentially dangerous synthetic preservatives. Many dog food companies choose to use chemical, not natural, preservatives which can have terrible health consequences. Harmful coloring dyes. This is a sad one since these serve zero purpose other than to make food look appealing to pet parents yet there are shocking issues linked to some artificial coloring agents. In animal testing, Red 3 was found to be a carcinogen. Yellow 5, which is has a warning label in Europe but not in the United States, is linked to behavioral issues including aggression and hyperactivity. And in regard to allergy issues, Yellow 6 and Blue 5 are top culprits. Artificial food enhancers. Monosodium glutamate MSG , a flavor enhancer, is yet another hidden ingredient in some dog foods since it does not always have to be listed on the label, by law. And did you know that this does not actually have a taste? It is linked to heart palpitations, anxiety, and numbness in the extremities and studies are being conducted in regard to suspected links to liver inflammation, fetal brain damage, and toxicity to the brain, kidney, and liver. Random animal ingredients. Some pet owners assume that this is a myth that dog food can contain road kill and other very questionable meat sources. This does include the carcasses of animals collected from roads, farm animals that die during transportation, dead zoo animals, and more. Cheap fillers. As a cost-saving method, many commercial brands add in fillers. These are inexpensive ingredients that simply add bulk but practically no nutrients. A very common one is corn and its by-products and this is not the sweet corn that you may enjoy at a barbeque; it is usually very low-quality corn used for cattle-feed. High gluten levels. Though lots of owners worry about their Poodles being allergic to grains, it is usually wheat, which has high levels of gluten, that is to blame. Another flavorful meal is this turkey-based delight. This has lean shredded turkey, diced carrots, zucchini slices, and spinach greens, over steamed quinoa and topped with blackberries and strawberries. The 7 Benefits of Home Cooking for a Poodle 1. No worries regarding hidden ingredients. You will know exactly what is going into each meal and snack. No need for preservatives. Since food will be cooked fresh and either refrigerated or frozen, there is no need for preservatives. The advantages of fresh cuts of meat and fish. Not only is fresh, unprocessed meat more nutritious in regard to protein levels, most dogs find it much more appetizing. Natural flavors. You can add in some truly tasty ingredients that offer bursts of wholesome flavor all thanks to Mother Nature. This includes crispy vegetables like sugar snap peas and green beans, antioxidant-packed fruits like blueberries and blackberries, and sauces with yogurt, pumpkin, or rich-broth bases. Complete control over level of grains. There are a wide range of options with home cooking including gluten-free, low gluten, or grain-free. Recipes can be adjusted with ingredients such as brown or white rice, quinoa technically a seed , and oatmeal. And baked snacks can be made with flour or alternatives such as coconut or tapioca flour. You can stick with just one or two meals that your Poodle likes best or you can offer up different protein bases for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can swap out raspberries for mango or lima beans for bell peppers. With home cooking, you are in charge and able offer a truly customized diet. This is a fun and informative, full-color, recipe PDF eBook cookbook. Brush a dog biscuit baking tray with coconut oil. Mash the ripe banana in a bowl until smooth. Ensure there are no large chunks left. In a medium-sized bowl, blend the gluten-free flour and oats. Add coconut oil, water, mashed banana, unsweetened applesauce, and fresh blueberries. Mix until well combined. Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Stir until you get an even consistency. Drizzle in the CBD oil and give it another stir to ensure even distribution. Use a tablespoon measure to scoop out portions of the mixture. Press each scoop firmly into the dog treat baking mold. Place the tray in the oven and bake the treats for 30 to 40 minutes. They should be firm to the touch and slightly golden when ready. Once the treats have cooled, transfer them to an airtight container for storage. This easy-to-make recipe ensures your Poodle gets a nourishing and delightful meal. This batch yields approximately four servings, which can be stored in your refrigerator. Ingredients 1 lb. Cut the chicken into half-inch pieces. In a frying pan with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, cook the chicken on medium heat for about 15 minutes or until fully cooked. Remove the chicken pieces and set aside the pan drippings. Rice preparation. Once done, set aside. Gravy creation. Over medium to low heat, warm the chicken drippings in the pan. Gently stir until it becomes a smooth mixture. Continue cooking until it evolves into a thick gravy consistency. Combining ingredients. Add the cooked chicken, rice, peas, and carrots to the gravy. Simmer the mixture for approximately 10 minutes or until the veggies are tender. This enhanced dog food recipe combines the richness of turkey with the nourishment of vegetables and quinoa — a superfood known for its protein and fiber content. Ingredients 1 pound of ground turkey 1 cup of quinoa 1 cup of carrots, finely chopped 1 cup of green beans, finely chopped 1 cup of spinach, finely chopped 1 tablespoon of fish oil A sprinkle of turmeric for anti-inflammatory benefits, optional Directions Cooking the turkey. Over medium heat, cook the ground turkey in a non-stick skillet until fully done. Preparing the feast. Combine the quinoa, cooked turkey, and water in a large pot. Bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes or until the quinoa becomes soft and translucent. Adding vegetables. Introduce the carrots, green beans, and spinach to the pot. Allow the mixture to cook for another 10 minutes, ensuring the vegetables are tender but not overly soft. Finishing touches. Let the meal cool to room temperature before serving. Extra portions can be refrigerated and consumed within five days. Adding eggs and beneficial herbs ensures your Poodle gets essential vitamins and nutrients. Begin by boiling the eggs until they are hard-boiled. Once done, peel and finely chop them. Beef cooking. Once done, drain off any excess fat. In a large mixing bowl or container, combine the cooked brown rice, browned sirloin, chopped eggs, diced or shredded carrots, peas or green beans, minced parsley, and the optional sprinkle of turmeric. Drizzle with olive or safflower oil. Stir together. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently mix all the ingredients until they are evenly distributed and well combined. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you want more homemade dog food recipes and cooking options for your Poodle, cookbooks can be useful for various recipes. Maintaining a healthy weight is easier when your Poodle is fed the right dog food. However, identifying a healthy gut is not an easy task. Skin or coat issues, excessive tiredness, allergies, weight loss, malnutrition, and obesity can be caused by unbalanced and insufficient meal plans. If you detect any of these symptoms while feeding your dog meals, stop doing it immediately and seek expert advice. Below is a list of the most common toxic ingredients dogs need to avoid.

Our passion for what we do is evident in the quality puppies we raise - we love what we do and the dogs we work with. You may have noticed that many guide dogs are Labradoodles, which speaks volumes about their ability to remember commands and learn obedience. Since Poodles and Labradors are both considered extremely intelligent breeds, Labradoodles are also likely to be clever. If you are looking for a family pet, our Labradoodle puppies for sale in QLD are ideal. They are playful and enjoy spending time with family members of all ages. Labradoodles are incredibly sociable dogs and are not likely to exhibit aggressive behaviour. While they are great pets to have as playmates and running buddies, they will not make the most alert guard dogs. These dogs are outgoing and friendly, as well as exceedingly friendly. It would be best if you took time to ensure that you socialise your Labradoodle as soon as possible so that they become familiar with other animals and people. In your search for a Labradoodle for sale in NSW , you may already have learned that Labradoodles first made an appearance in the mid-twentieth century. The main objective of this match was to breed a dog that did not shed, that was also suited to be a service dog. A Labrador retriever and Poodle were bred, and the result was the Labradoodle. We breed Labradoodle puppies that are highly intelligent and easy to train. These dogs often have various types of coats, ranging from the springier poodle coat to the longer Labrador coat, which is more prone to shedding. As time passed, both American and English Cocker Spaniel breeds were included in this mix, which has become the Labradoodle breed that you will know and recognise today. It is worth buying slightly cheaper bowls at first and then upgrading once your puppy has outgrown their chewing phase. In addition, your puppy will need good-quality dog food, chews, dog toys, as well as a collar and leash. You could even invest in some puppy shampoo when you first get your Labradoodle for sale in Victoria. As a responsible pet owner, you must ensure that your new puppy receives all their vaccinations as required. If you live in an urban area, it is also wise to microchip them so that it will be easier for a vet to identify you as their owner if they do get lost. Toilet training is essential. Try to take your puppy outside as often as possible so that they learn the habit of going out when they need to use the toilet. You should be prepared for accidents, though — they are still learning to control their bladders and may take a little while to become accustomed to this toilet routine. Our puppies are carefully bred to produce strong, healthy, and brilliant dogs who will make an excellent addition to any home. You can also purchase purebred French Bulldog puppies from us. About Toy Puppies Are Us We have been breeding puppies for three decades, and our passion for animals and what we do has not diminished. Our breeding is ethical, and we adhere to rules and regulations regarding breeding so that our puppies are healthy and happy. The puppies spend the first few weeks of their lives on our large property, cared for by our dedicated team. We are fortunate to have highly experienced veterinarian nurses on call who regularly check up on our dogs. Labradoodle: Services. Their incredible versatility of an easily trainable and adoring temperament as well as their social nature make them a perfect family pet. These beautiful, miniature versions are also commonly referred to as Australian Labradoodles, Mini Labradoos, and Mini Labrapoodles. The Mini Labradoodle is the smaller version of the equally amazing Standard Labradoodle that is a cross between a Standard Poodle and a Labrador, both purebred dogs. The standard-sized versions were bred to be guide dogs, and this trait is dominant in Mini Labradoodles as well. This designer breed is a dog of many talents. Mini Labradoodles are highly intelligent, affectionate, and as loving as can be. They can be trained for a myriad of dog jobs, and are quite the athletes when it comes to dog sports. Appearance and Grooming With two very different parent breeds, it can be difficult to know what each puppy will look like. Some litter pups take on more characteristics of the Poodle parent and others take after the Labrador more. Their low-shedding coat may resemble that of a Poodle : long, curly, and thick, or they may have fur that resembles that of a Labrador: short, straight, and dense with color variations of black, brown, chocolate, cream, golden, silver and white. This breed has a double coat which may require daily brushing depending on the thickness. They will also need regularly scheduled professional grooming appointments every 4 to 6 weeks. The size of Mini Labradoodles can vary quite a bit as well since they are a crossbreed of different-sized dogs. They may be smaller or larger depending on who they take after more. The typical size for these cuties is 14 to 16 inches tall with a weight of 16 to 25 pounds for a full-grown Mini Labradoodle. With both parent breeds being family-friendly, happy-go-lucky breeds, it is no surprise that this puppy will have the same fun-loving nature. Family and Companionship Perfect for families with children of all ages, the Mini Labradoodle is certain to fit in anywhere. This sweet dog will need plenty of love and attention, so staying away for long periods of time is not ideal for the overall emotional health of this breed. Because of their smaller size, they can thrive in all environments, be it a city apartment or in a rural setting with lots of lands. Keep in mind that your puppy will need lots of exercise and play so make sure you have plenty of places to let them run and sniff. Exercise Taking on the energetic tendencies of both parents, the mini Labradoodles are extremely active dogs who enjoy going for walks, running, and even swimming much like the Poodle. Like the Retriever, they love to play and retrieve things. Be prepared to keep them busy and spend at least an hour of active playtime with them each day. They can be pretty active chewers and seekers of mischief, so giving them something to play with is imperative. Training and Socialization Inheriting the intelligence of the Poodle parent will not only make this dog super trainable but also a wonderful option for a service or therapy dog. Its natural intuition makes it easily adaptable to people and places. However, it is very important to begin training the moment you bring your mini Labradoodle puppy home. You should start exposing it to new places, people, and other dogs as early as possible. Early socialization is paramount in the overall wellness of this unique breed. They are happy and healthy dogs that have amazing personalities. Our Mini Labradoodle breeders as well as our Puppy Agents interact with these pups daily to ensure they are socialized early and ready for their transition to your home. How big will my Miniature Labradoodle get? They will grow to a height between 21 to 23 inches and weigh between 55 to 80 lbs. What is the life expectancy of a Miniature Labradoodle? The average life expectancy is 10 to 12 years. What is the appearance of a Miniature Labradoodle? What is the temperament of a Miniature Labradoodle? They are spirited animals with a zest for adventure. They are full of love and affection and devoted to their humans. They have a playful and sometimes rambunctious side so creating boundaries and providing proper exercise will be important to keep these little ones in shape and out of mischief. Is the Miniature Labradoodle a good choice for first time dog owners? In fact, they are a perfect match for first time dog owners as they are super intelligent and easily trainable. They start learning at a very young age. Should I socialize my Miniature Labradoodle puppy? Though it is always important to socialize your puppy, please do so in safe places until the puppy has received all of its vaccinations. These little ones love people, but can exhibit a protective nature. Proper socialization will bring out the best of their sociable, easy-going temperament. How much exercise will my Miniature Labradoodle require? These are lively little pups with energy to spare they will need to have 30 to 60 minutes of vigorous activity per day, including walks and active play. Playtime and mental stimulation such as training exercises and interactive toys are recommended as well. How much food will my Miniature Labradoodle require? This breed is prone to obesity and bloating so proper nutrition must be shown from puppy and throughout adulthood. Because the sizes of these dogs vary so widely so will the amount of food they should get. Talk with your veterinary care provider about getting your little one on the right track. What type of coat does the Miniature Labradoodle have? Miniature Labradoodle coats come in many different colors and textures. They could have a shorter, double Labrador coat or a long, curly Poodle coat. Most of the time they fall somewhere in between while still showcasing those distinctive Poodle curls. What colors are the Miniature Labradoodles? They come in several solid colors including yellow, golden, chocolate, black, blue, brown, gray, and white. How often will my Miniature Labradoodle need to be groomed? This is a fairly high maintenance breed that requires frequent, brushing and regular trimming. They are excellent family pets, especially for active families. They are full of love and devotion and are always up for a new adventure. They do great with children. Is the Miniature Labradoodle hypoallergenic? Though not a fully hypoallergenic, they are a great choice for anyone that suffers from allergens. The AKC does not recognize mixed breeds. Mini Labradoodle Reviews.

Latest Dog Articles Psychology of dogs: don't allow your dog to bite. Don't allow your dog to bite, as it can lead to very unpleasant consequences. Mostly, the owners aren't worried because of that their pets can sometimes grab their legs or a little scratch a hand with teeth, because it's nothing serious. Often people don' How to develop a powerful dog's bite? Have you ever heard the Bull Terrier, which is used in boar hounding, bites bull's nose with such force that the animal loses consciousness from the shock. Here's another story: pit bull can easily hang for half an hour, grasps with its jaws on the object Proper feeding of puppies Food is one of the main features of the proper development of the dog. Many factors depend on how your dog eats: the development of locomotor system, hair's beauty, presence or absence of various diseases. Therefore, feeding is an important point at any p Some information you should know before you get a dog How long have you been dreaming about good and fluffy friend? Maybe you thought not once about getting a dog. Maybe your child asks for a puppy? However, before making such an important decision, you need to think carefully and weigh all the "pros" and "c Observations and small dog breeds training I want to tell you about my observations after the proper dog training such breeds as the Pekinese. This unique breed appeared long time ago, and these little four-legged friends are different from other dogs by character. After spending much time with my If dog's physical activity was small, the high physical activity long active walks would be bad for it. The dog may be injured. Physical exercise should be distributed evenly. Step by step increase the distance. 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. Carolina Pugs Welcome to Carolina Pugs! Our intentions are pretty straight forward. We offer Pug puppies for sale across the East Coast with a special emphasis inside our region, the Carolina's. North and South Carolina is home to the majority of clientele who purchase our Pug puppies. However, we will sell to anyone looking for a phenomenal Pug. Only producing a few litters annually, our Pug puppies have some of the most sought after markings and personality. Also, most pedigrees within our Pug family have a proven track record of up to 75 years of show quality. Great health is important and is certainly throughout their ancestry. Our Pug puppies are sold to interested families who have a passion for the breed. We do not give or sell breeding rights to anyone who purchases a Carolina Pug. This money is to hold your new Carolina Pug puppy until 8 - 10 weeks of age. We do not let our Pug pups leave before the eight week period for good reason. It ensures the pups are given enough time to learn stability and self reliance. Also, the possibility of emotional distress increases when being away too early from litter-mates. We try to give you the greatest possible experience when buying a Pug puppy from Carolina Pugs. We accept deposits to reserve a puppy after the litter is born. At pickup the remaining balance is due. Our pups colors can vary depending on genetics, but are typically fawn with black masks. Sometimes we do have silver fawns, blacks, and apricots as well. It's important we only sell our pups to people that can provide a loving environment. Carolina Pug's main objective is to help families find a top notch Pug. Quality Pug Puppies are hard to find. It's why we became Pug breeders in the first place. First and foremost; We absolutely love Pugs! There's not a breed in the world that comes close. They are little, wrinkly, comical, snorting, loyal, short faced balls of energy with a touch of laziness. Pug puppies are somewhat hard to find of good quality. We offer exactly that to anybody who wants some of the better bloodlines and genes a Pug can naturally possess. Our Pug puppies for sale started as a hobby. A small wish for my first Pug is where it began. We feel fortunate to be able to help others fulfill that same wish! We are highly against puppy mills or people that breed too close of lines; as that can present health risks. We are natives of Charleston, South Carolina. Coming from somewhat of a city life style, we know a small breed dog can be a better option. Pugs are small yet somewhat energetic. They "love to eat", but feeding them is financially manageable. Just don't give them too much, they would most definitely overindulge! Pugs are great around children! We have two boys and they are good with them and with friends, neighbors and other animals. Pugs have a keen sense of what makes you happy and are constantly trying to get you to laugh. They also love to be congratulated with treats. Pugs are a breed that enjoys being the center of attention, but also know when it's time to be lazy. Generally Pugs are a healthy breed. When they come from a trusted background of quality, good demeanor and traceable genetics you can't go wrong. Sometimes Pugs are loving, charming and mischievous all at the same time! Our family fell in love with the breed immediately after we bought our first Pug years ago. Owning your first Pug truly is a special feeling we would like to share with you too!

They are clear of known diseases for the breed and over other genetic diseases and sub-variants. We also apply proper nutritional practices and supplements for joint and muscle health, practice non-impact exercises to decrease possible damage to both bones and joints. Our professional breeders also provide educational information to potential buyers and anyone interested in canine health and genetic testing. We are working with other breeders to proactively address the benefits of genetic testing for health and breed purity. The Importance Of Genetic Testing For American Bulldog Breeding In the past, breeders have relied strongly on phenotype when breeding, which allowed the introduction of other breeds. To reverse this tendency to breed by phenotype only, it is crucial that the American Bulldog community work towards having genetic testing as a fundamental practice in their breeding programs. The coefficient of relationship is a measure of the degree of a biological relationship between two dogs. Our Client Reviews "Awesome farm and knowledgeable breeder! Remy is everything we wanted and more! Words cant describle your devotion to this breed. Great experience with extremely educated breeders! Our Partnership with Experienced Veterinarians Think About It Farms is working with veterinarians from both the genetic and research fields. The veterinarians are assisting us in the proper care, nutritional needs, exercise, determining which hereditary qualities and behaviors are considered beneficial to improving the breed, developing practices of selectively breeding, and raising the dogs to promote these desirable traits. Call us today at to learn more about our American Bulldogs and our efforts to preserve them. Life Span Did You Know? The American Bulldog is a descendant of a generic bulldog type of dog breed brought into the region that is now the Southern United States by working-class immigrants many years ago. These were all-around working dogs used by small farmers and ranchers for several tasks around the farm. They were often found working as catch dogs, stock dogs, and overall farm guardians. When feral pigs were introduced to the New World, they had no natural predators and the population quickly grew out of control. In addition to their farm duties, the settlers found the bulldog-type dog to be the best solution they had for dealing with it. So, the bulldog continued to thrive, especially in the South. Johnson and Alan Scott that we have what we know today as the American Bulldog. Modern American Bulldogs can still be found working as all-around utility dogs, farm dogs, catch dogs, cattle drovers, and more. They can also be found competing in dog sports, working as a guardian, police, or military dog, and are also popular as a family pet. This dog breed is a sweetheart with a gentle, fun-loving nature. The American Bulldog is affectionate and adores their families. They also love children and tend to be good with other animals. American Bulldogs can have a high prey drive, so you will want to make sure you introduce and socialize them properly with other small animals in the household. Due to their protective nature, they can be aloof towards strangers and strange dogs, especially when they are younger. Early socialization can help them be more comfortable navigating their guardian instincts. Overall, this dog breed tends to be confident, social, and are most at ease and relaxed when they are with the people they love. American Bulldogs are an emotional dog breed and thrives on human attention and affection, so they tend to bond strongly with their owners and may come across as clingy sometimes. They will also often convince themselves that they are lap dogs regardless of their size, so make sure you are ready for a lot of love and cuddles with your American Bulldog, drool and all! The American Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They are strong, high-energy working dogs that love being around their favorite humans. This makes them better suited to larger homes with space for them to run. They are not generally a good fit for apartment living, but they can adapt as long as they get more than enough exercise and attention. Because they do tend to bond strongly with their owners and want to be near them, they do not tend to do well with long periods of time alone. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, but can adapt to well to most climates. There are some health issues that can be found in specific genetic lines and are not common to the breed overall, but these can be ruled out with genetic tests. Some potential health conditions to be aware of in general with the American Bulldog include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, thyroid disorders, kidney disorders, bone cancer, and eye-related issues like ectropion, entropion, and cherry eye. Talking to the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances can help allay potential concerns. American Bulldogs are highly trainable and eager to please, so they are a good fit for owners of any experience level, including first-time dog owners. They can have a stubborn streak, so a first-time dog owner may want to consider enrolling in puppy training classes. As with any dog breed, early and ongoing training and socialization are important for your American Bulldog puppy to grow into a well-rounded, and a well-behaved, dog. This dog breed has a short coat that is generally smooth. Common coat colors are white and predominately white with patches of brindle, black, or red. More coat color patterns are emerging and becoming more common like all shades of brindle, fawn, brown, red, and more. The American Bulldog is relatively low maintenance and easy to groom and they are light to moderate shedders. They only require a bath as needed. But, you will need to be prepared to deal with some extra drool! Floppy ears tend to trap moisture and dirt, which can lead to ear infections. The ideal dental care for dogs is using an enzyme toothpaste or brushing their teeth every day. Dental hygiene chews or treats, a specially-formulated dental care diet, and more can be used to supplement your dental care efforts. The American Bulldog is an athletic and high-energy dog breed. They love daily walks and plenty of playtime outside. They may even enjoy plenty of other activities with you like swimming, hiking , and more. With their working dog background, this dog breed does need a job to do in order to stay happy and healthy. They also tend to be a good candidate for dog sports like obedience, weight pulling, the Iron Dog competition, and more. A fully-grown American Bulldog usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. An American Bulldog generally lives for years. Chance, one of the canine stars from the Homeward Bound films, was an American Bulldog. Featured American Bulldog Article. We specialize in Bully-type, also sometimes referred to as Johnson American Bulldogs. However on occasion we do produce fantastic standard- and hybrid-type American Bulldogs. We breed for functional and balanced temperament allowing for the American Bulldog to be a family member and a companion while having the drive and intelligence to perform desired functions. At Grand Future, we typically produce large American Bulldogs. Males range in lbs and females range in lbs. We have always bred to a significantly stricter breed standard than the current American Bulldog breed standards under U. Dogs with the following characteristics are not shown at conformation shows nor bred in our kennel: 1. Full black mask — this genetic trait is usually a result of another breed having been infused into the gene pool. Usually a dog with a kinked tail itself is not at risk of health complications as a result of the kinked tail. Teeth — dogs missing more than 3 teeth. Dogs lacking full pigmentation are more susceptible to various health problems. Lack of pigment is also responsible for deafness in dogs. We have never produced a deaf dog. Interested in a puppy? We have many repeat buyers — over 30 families have purchased 2,3,4, and even 5 dogs. Our dogs generally love children and have balanced temperament. Having produced over dogs in 7 generations, we have history and data that allows us to make some conclusions that we believe are significant. The very common problem of hip dysplasia that afflicts this breed is nearly non-existent in our kennel. Our dogs tend to have normal locomotion — good movement due to anatomically sound physical structure. Our dogs have never torn ligaments such as the Canine Cruciate Ligament CCL , which leads us to conclude that such problems are likely hereditary in nature. Our dogs have never prematurely died from heart problems, which leads us to conclude that such problems are likely hereditary in nature. Our dogs have never been diagnosed with tracheal hypoplasia — a hereditary genetic defect common in bulldog breeds that leads to potential deadly obstruction of the airway. Our dogs tend to live long. Our foundation dog lived to the age of 15 years and 10 months old. Our dogs have never been afflicted with cancer at a young age. The earliest instance of cancer has been encountered at 8 years of age by one dog. The remainder of cases have been documented at over 10 years of age. The biggest tragedy for an owner is in having to care for a sick dog as a result of poor breeding, and be absolutely helpless as that dog passes in their arms. Exorbitant medical bills end up being paid to prolong the time together even by just a little with the beloved family member. As with any animal breeding program, our kennel is not immune from problems. This drives us to continually improve. We maintain contact and help our owners in any way we can; even at 4AM or during a vacation since we have owners all over the world in various timezones. Our breeding expertise enables us to deliver healthy, beautiful, strong, and intelligent American Bulldog puppies. We provide a contractual health guarantee against the following genetic health problems — hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, Canine Cruciate Ligament CCL ruptures, cataracts, entropion, ectropion, heart, kidneys, thyroid, ichthyosis, cryptorchidism, epilepsy, and any neurological disorders including NCL. Our conversation with a prospective owner always involves questions to understand the kind of dog the person would like — the more details the better. If so inclined, the prospective owner can request guidance in picking the puppy based on personality and activity level, temperament, phenotype, and more. We evaluate our puppies at 6 weeks of age on a variety of parameters. We provide lifetime unlimited advice and guidance by phone to owners concerning all subjects relating to dog ownership. You can be sure you will have the information you need to succeed even if this is going to be your first American Bulldog puppy. Because we stand by the quality of our work, we want our owners to participate in our breeding program and we are happy to provide the necessary guidance. Our dogs are also ideal candidates for service animal work. Training a service dog requires a significant investment of time and money, making the genetic health and temperament of the dog even more critical. A service dog needs to be healthy, hassle-free, intelligent and receptive to training, have stable temperament to handle any type of environment, and of course lead a long life disease-free. All of these selective requirements for service dog candidates make Grand Future American Bulldogs an ideal fit. Join us in our mission of producing the best American Bulldogs possible! Professional worry-free shipping worldwide Of course our preference is for you to come visit our home, get acquainted with us, and pick up your new American Bulldog puppy in person. However, we understand that it is not feasible for everyone. Even if you do not live anywhere near Nevada, do not be concerned — we are highly experienced at shipping our American Bulldog puppies worldwide, as even just the list of our Grand Champions and Champions spanning 9 nations attests. We can prepare all necessary export documentation. Search this website.