labrador x weimaraner puppies for sale

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Insufficient relaxation or sleep time Other animals harassing your dog Lack of positive attention from you Inconsistent or unclear behavior rules taught by you Insufficient physical or mental exercise You give incorrect attention during arousal behaviors You can correct the lack of exercise through a balanced German Shepherd exercise routine for health. Boredom, due to lack of mental stimulation, is also correctable. Read this guide on using mental stimulation exercises for German Shepherds to improve their behavior. Motherhood, hypothyroidism, and physical pain all contribute to stress and hostile episodes. While motherhood passes, other medical conditions need treatment. Talk to your vet before trying to address aggression on your own as an underlying medical condition may exist. Triggers are immediate actions or behaviors that increase or begin the act of aggression in your dog. Determine what sets off your dog by watching their body language signs listed above and noting their environment. This requires identifying the trigger, eliminating any stressors, and creating a training modification program that is consistent to meet your GSDs end goals. Use the stress list, found above, to help you figure out stressors that you can control. Track what things cause your dog to react hostile. Use Safety Precautions to Prevent Injury Try a control management tool such as a muzzle or headcollar to regain control when out in public. Gentle Head Collar This control tool provides gentle corrections and prevents jumping, lunging, and pulling. It does, however, provide better safety and control. If you need more confidence in handling your aggressive German Shepherd, then place the head collar on them before going outside. Aggression Treatment To have the best chance of success with training an aggressive German Shepherd, use the entire treatment protocol listed below. Using all the steps of treatment gives you and your dog more positive results. The following chart provides the training step and the action to help lessen aggressive behavior. The program can take many months depending on what issues your dog exhibits and how deep those issues are. Instead, take an approach that touches on all of the daily life skills. In a nutshell, the NILIF technique means that for everything your dog wants in life they must perform a command that you give them. You can make yourself more predictable to your dog by teaching them that rewards only come when he asks nicely with a calm behavior, like a sit. Your dog earns all rewards such as food, treats, praise, and affection by giving you the behavior you want. Most importantly… Teach your dog the basic obedience skills to reinforce your expectations and use this obedience training in your daily routines. Instead, use positive reinforcement that promotes and rewards desired behaviors. Here are some problems and solutions to help prevent your German Shepherd from becoming aggressive. Rather than think your German Shepherd has simply become aggressive, look for the areas of their life that tend to upset her. German Shepherd Aggression Prevention There are many reasons you must consider when wondering why your German Shepherd is becoming aggressive. Use a complete training regimen to ensure success. Aggressive German Shepherds are a potential threat and a safety hazard. Safety is your priority. Both for you and your dog. Your patience and persistence help your GSD become a success story! The correct thing to do is to make sure your dog is kept away from harming any person or animal. Please share this to help others! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Genetics, learning history, and environment all play a role in behavior. Here are the four questions you can ask to get the full picture: 1 What kind of information has the breeder or rescue organization given? Has the breeder become aware of other puppies in that litter showing aggression? Does the rescue have any information on either of those things? Is your GSD puppy showing aggression only when there are items of value nearby, like toys or bones? When do other dogs walk by your house? When his food bowl is present? Keep a puppy behavior diary — make notes of when you see behaviors of concern so that we can identify those specific environments. GSD puppies are typically fantastic communicators — they are born with the ability to use body language to express themselves to us and to each other. A fearful puppy may show his teeth, pin his ears, piloerection, growl, whale eye show the whites of his eyes in a doggy glare but keep his distance. More aggressive behaviors are similar to the above but they are much more inclined to break that space bubble and move in to make contact with the threat. However, a GSD puppy who is struggling with anxiety, pain or neurological issues, may take several hours or days to return to their normal state. These puppies require veterinary assistance to look further into WHY — a Veterinary Behaviorist who is qualified in both behavior and medicine. It is not only scary and upsetting after your GSD has become aggressive with you, but very confusing. They use their teeth for everything, especially while interacting with their people. Encourage him to go into his crate and get him into the car and to the vet for professional help to rule out any medical issues first. The short answer is YES. Whenever you see the behavior of concern, especially in a puppy, the very first thing to do is to see your veterinarian to rule out any chances of an underlying medical issue — medical trumps behavior, always. Ask your vet for assistance in finding the best harness for his body shape. Ask them what their training methods are and what you can expect from your first session with them. A GSD, even as a puppy, can certainly have great instincts to begin to protect his family and his environment — however, he does not yet have appropriate experience under his belt to know what to do with possible threats. Like most GSD puppies, they play, eat and sleep hard. If you have a friend or neighbor with a healthy, stable dog that could teach your GSD puppy how to play, this is always best. If, however, your GSD puppy is hurting your older dog — biting legs and neck to the point of drawing blood or causing a fight between them, separate them immediately and book that vet visit. When it comes to children and dogs of any age, there is no grey area. Is your or any child safe with your puppy? You will then need to contact a qualified Canine Behavior Consultant, not just a trainer, to help you. Demographic and epidemiologic data were collected and analyzed. A total of children were identified. The average age was 4. The majority of dog bites occurred in children 5 years of age or younger .Almost all .When circumstances surrounding the bite were documented, over half .Truly aggressive GSD puppies are rare — however, it happens. Qualified professionals will not recommend euthanasia lightly — they will do everything they can to ensure that underlying medical issues or specific contributing environments are ruled out. Conclusion In conclusion, truly aggressive GSD puppies are rare — but not impossible. Hire a qualified behavior consultant to help you figure out the WHY to prevent it from getting worse. Be sure, when looking to purchase or adopt a GSD puppy, to ask about their contracts to make sure that you are covered. If the aggression is based in fear, which it typically is — yes, with the right professionals on your side, your GSD puppy can live a normal and happy life. Fear is complex and time-consuming to work through but it can be done! More posts on German Shepherd Puppies Recommended post. Are German Shepherds Aggressive? Fact vs. Fiction German shepherd dogs are a very popular breed known for loyalty, bravery, and protection. But are German shepherds aggressive too? Find out the facts. German shepherd dogs are a very popular breed known for loyalty, bravery, and protection. The German shepherd dog has a devoted fandom of dog lovers around the world — so devoted that this dog breed even has its own acronym, the GSD. The GSD is often associated with loyalty and bravery. The truth about dog aggression is that it can affect any breed of dog, especially if the dog doesn't get enough socialization from an early age. But there are dog breeds that are more prone to aggressive behavior because of their breeding or because of genetically inherited mental disorders, like rage syndrome , cognitive dysfunction , or hypothyroidism. We'll look at the risk factors and statistics surrounding German shepherd aggression. Plus, we'll share tips for dog owners trying to prevent aggression in their German shepherd puppy or adult rescue dog. A Look at the Facts There are three ways to assess the likelihood that a dog breed will have aggressive tendencies. The first is to look at what they were bred for — this is often the best indicator of a dog's hardwired personality traits. Next is to look at the breed's health and inherited disorders to determine whether they inherit conditions that put them at risk for aggression. And finally, look at the data surrounding dog bites to see if German shepherds bite more frequently than other breeds. This data will help us discover the answer to: Are German shepherds aggressive? Were They Bred for Aggression? German shepherds were originally bred to be working dogs, and this dog has a history of succeeding in all types of work — most of which require a stable temperament. Herding These dogs started out as herding dogs where an aggressive dog might injure the livestock. But, part of the job of a herding dog is also to protect their herd. So, they may show aggression when they perceive something to be a threat to their flock, or in the case of a family dog, to their family members. Police Work German shepherds also work as police dogs. While this may bring to mind the image of an aggressive German shepherd, police dogs actually need to have an even temperament and be able to keep their cool in high-stress environments. Otherwise, they would be at risk for biting innocent civilians. This work requires an intelligent dog that pays close attention to its handler and loves the mental stimulation they get from police dog training, including obedience training, scenting, and search and rescue. Guarding Now we come to the one job that most people associate with aggression — The German shepherd breed is often used as a guard dog. These large dogs have an imposing size and appearance that can scare off strangers, and typically they will act to protect their home and family from a perceived threat. What constitutes a "perceived threat" will be different for every dog. A well-socialized dog may welcome strangers into their home and only act if their owner appears to be frightened or in pain. An undersocialized dog may perceive every visitor as a threat and need to be put away in a crate or another room whenever you have company. German shepherds are rarely aggressive towards their owners or family since that is the thing they're protecting. They may at times become overprotective of family members, but this trait should be manageable with proper training. While German Shepherds are at risk for a variety of health problems from arthritis to pancreatitis , they are not prone to rage syndrome, cognitive dysfunction, hypothyroidism, or brain tumors. However, GSDs are prone to epilepsy , which has been linked to aggression when it's left untreated. If you're buying a German shepherd puppy, ask the breeder about any history of epilepsy in their dogs and in puppies from previous litters. While a responsible breeder will conduct a variety of health screenings, there isn't currently a genetic test that can predict epilepsy. If you've had a German shepherd for a long time, and it suddenly starts to show signs of aggression, take your dog to the vet. Even if your GSD doesn't have epilepsy or another condition linked with aggression, their new-found behavior problem may be a sign that they're in pain. Many dogs will behave aggressively if they're in pain, and your dog may need medical attention and pain relief. According to recent data, German shepherds rank fourth on the list of dog breeds that bite the most. However, when you consider that German shepherds are the third most popular dog breed in the U. And while the study referenced above listed the top breed as unidentifiable, many local reports list Labrador retrievers as the breed that bites the most people. Labs also happen to be the most popular dog breed, which means there are more of them in the U. More Labs means more chance of getting bitten by a Lab — just like how more German shepherds means more chance of getting bitten by a German shepherd. A literature review by the American Veterinary Medical Association AVMA found a strong link between the prevalence of breed-specific bite incidents and the regional popularity of the breed. For example, in some regions of Canada where sled dogs are the most popular breeds, Siberian huskies caused the most dog bites. The AVMA review also found that with many but not all large breeds, the number of bites by that breed went up during times when the breed's popularity went up. A few years later, around the time that those Rottweiler puppies would have reached maturity, there was a spike in the number of reported dog bites by Rottweilers. This same study found that, compared to their prevalence in the dog population, small and medium-sized dogs were more likely to bite than large dogs. But bites by large dogs were more likely to be reported because they cause more damage. Because an aggressive large dog is more dangerous than an aggressive toy breed, large dogs are also more likely to get treatment and training to prevent their aggression. And lack of training may be part of the reason aggression was more prevalent in small and medium dogs. This research found that situational factors not related to a dog's breed were more likely to lead to biting. The situational risk factors included a dog owner's mismanagement and neglect of the dog, the bite victim being a stranger, and the dog not being spayed or neutered. Because purebred German shepherd puppies come from breeders, rather than rescue organizations, owners are not typically required to get their GSDs spayed or neutered. So, it seems that any increased risk of a dog bite from German shepherds may be based — at least in part — on the increased number of GSDs in the population. And that's if the breed reporting can be trusted at all. Ultimately, any dog can bite if they're not trained and socialized from a young age. However, because German shepherds are large and powerful dogs, their bite will do more damage than the bite of a chihuahua — making it even more important for German shepherd owners to sign their pet up for obedience training. How to Prevent Aggressive Behavior The majority of aggressive behavior is preventable. Here's what you can do as a German shepherd owner: Start Socializing at an Early Age Dog owners can raise well-adjusted pets by introducing their dogs to as many different kinds of people and environments as possible, starting at an early age. Take your puppy to parks, restaurants, sports games, and any other dog-friendly locales you can find. While you're there, ask people of all different heights, skin tones, ages, abilities, and genders to interact with your German shepherd puppy. And make sure your pup gets plenty of treats at each new location and from each new person they meet. Take Your Puppy to Training Classes Sign up for obedience training to further socialize your pet and prevent common issues like puppy nipping. Look for dog trainers who use positive reinforcement training. While dominance-based dog training used to be a popular technique, animal behaviorists now recommend against it, partially because these techniques can sometimes cause dog aggression. Rehabilitate Older Dogs If you're rescuing or fostering an older GSD or GSD mix and the dog already has behavior problems, work with an animal behaviorist to find the best positive reinforcement techniques to rehabilitate your pet. If your adult dog has aggressive tendencies, train them to enjoy wearing a muzzle and make sure they wear it whenever they're around new people. Recognize the Signs of Aggression Even if your dog is perfectly trained, they may still behave aggressively if they feel frightened or threatened. Watch your dog's body language for early signs of fear and aggression , including a lowered head, tucked tail, pinned-back ears, growling, and snarling. Remove your dog from the intimidating situation before the behavior progresses to lunging or biting. As a vigilant dog owner, you can help prevent dog aggression and keep your pet feeling safe and calm. While any dog can show aggressive tendencies if they aren't socialized from a young age, German shepherds don't appear to be more at risk for aggression than any other dog breed. As a German shepherd owner, we know you want the best for your dog — from the best food for German shepherds to the best dog training. These intelligent dogs are easy to train, so sign them up for positivity-based obedience classes to help them become better behaved and better adjusted canine citizens. To learn more about your dog's health and wellness, check out the Native Pet blog. Read more. What does it mean for a German Shepherd to be aggressive? It can range from the dog being territorial and protective to just feeling uncomfortable in their environment. In this blog post, we will talk about how you can fix these types of aggression problems in your pet. They may bark, snarl and charge at other dogs on walks or when they see them in the home. This is very dangerous, as it could cause another dog to get injured or hurt themselves while trying to run away from the situation. Refusing to go near other dogs when they are out walking or in the home. Hiding behind furniture or in dark areas of your home if they see another animal outside being walked. Always remember that if your German Shepherd is aggressive towards other animals they may need some medical attention as well. Take them to the vet for an examination and to rule anything else out before trying any of these methods yourself. If your shep becomes aggressive when they see other dogs on walks or being in a new environment, there are several methods you can try out at home to help them get used to these situations without them getting so worked up, including the Desensitization Method, The Introduction Method, The Routine Method and the Counter-Conditioning Method. The Desensitization Method You can try and desensitize your GSD towards a stimulus that causes them to become anxious or aggressive. Then, when you get to this point, just wait for a couple of minutes so your dog becomes comfortable in the area again before carrying on back home. The Introductions Method Introducing a shy or fearful dog to new people and other dogs should be a slow process. Have the person come over and keep your dog confined until everyone is comfortable and settled in. Step 3: Then, have the person offer high-quality dog treats that you know your shep likes. A good one might be Zesty Paws Calming bites since it soothes and relaxes them. Step 4: The person should hold out the treat or drop it on the ground nearby. They should not make eye contact with your dog and stand sideways or in a crouching position while they are doing this. Tip 1: If your GSD continues to be shy or shows fear, do not reward them with treats or this will reinforce their bad behavior and delay progress. Keep your distance from the handler and their dog at first. Step 3: Slowly approach the other dog and handler and reward your dog if they act calm Then, let them sniff and circle around one another. Next, walk azway with your dog. Step 4: Repeat this process as needed. If you have a shy or fearful dog, it may take several times to build up their confidence enough for them to be relaxed enough around other dogs. Tip 1: Reward your dog whenever they display confident behavior. This positive reinforcement encourages a positive association when your GSD meets new dogs. This can cause a negative reaction in your dog. Tip 3: Start with a familiar, well-behaved canine. This precaution helps the process along by introducing your animal to a socialized, confident dog. It will also teach you the best way to handle these types of socialization episodes. This is a great way to train your pet so it can be rewarded for not acting inappropriately instead of them getting chastised for doing something wrong. This is done by giving them a treat every time they react positively to seeing another dog so that it changes their thoughts about this stimulus. Take Virtual Dog Classes Dog training classes work really well for curbing aggression and other undesirable traits in your dog. Virtual dog classes , where dogs can learn new behavior and impulse control online, fit into busy lifestyles and you can take them anywhere. Here at Regis Regal German Shepherds we offer virtual dog classes, and can happily show you how to fix German Shepherd aggression. We can provide private one-to-one dog training throughout the world thanks to modern technology! Our dog training sessions cover anything from discovering bad habits to helping with bad behavior such as pulling on a leash and aggression. There are a number of reasons why your German Shepherd might be acting aggressively towards other animals, and it can even depend on their breed. The thing about dogs though is that they are very difficult to understand, so it could be possible your dog is simply telling another animal off for paying too much attention or getting in their personal space; Fearful of other animals: If you have a German Shepherd who is fearful and anxious around other dogs or any type of pet then this can cause them to lash out. This is often more of a problem with dogs who are very attached to their human family, although it can still happen even if the dog only has mild separation anxiety; Dominance issues: Some German Shepherds will display dominant behavior towards other animals in order for them to stay on top of any kind of social hierarchy. This can cause an issue with aggression because they have no idea how to act around another animal. Breeding: With a GSD, temperament is something that cannot be trained into them; it has to be bred. This is when the mother and father of a puppy have familial ties and desirable physical and temperament are inherited by the puppies. Outline breeding, which is the opposite of inline breeding, is performed by many breeders in the country—puppies who are outline bred will inherit the worst physical and temperamental traits of their parents, including aggression and poor health characteristics like hip dysplasia. East German Shepherds, on the other hand, are bred to work for the military and police. They do not have a temperament that is suitable for the home, and they are not, nor intended to be, family dogs. Health issues: Sometimes an underlying health issue can make a dog act aggressively, such as pain or illness the most common one is hip dysplasia. Take a Class with Your German Shepherd Regis Regal offers both in-person classes and online classes to help you socialize and train your dog. Our course is designed for both novice pet owners as well as more experienced GSD handlers who have had trouble in the past with these wonderful animals. Call us today at or send us a message to learn about our German Shepherd classes. I've been breeding German Shepherds of sound body and mind for over 30 years and specialize in providing families with loving companion dogs, and dogs for emotional support therapy, for veterans suffering PTSD, and for other special needs. I'm trying to share my extensive knowledge on breeding and training the perfect German Shepherd with the wider community. We offer lifetime guarantees on health and temperament. Our bloodlines started out of the top 2 bloodlines in the world, Vom Arlett and Bad-Boll. As I continue this blog I will help you learn how to assure you are picking a healthy and happy pup for your next family companion. Recent Posts. As well as this, there may be behavioral issues that you have to work through with your dog too. Here are some of the common signs you may notice in an aggressive german shepherd puppy. And remember, one of these signs alone may not be a sign of an aggressive puppy. The more signs there are the more likely it is that your puppy is aggressive. So you should read the situation before jumping to any conclusions. This can normally be a sign that worse things are to come. Biting Or Lunging Another sign of aggression is biting, or snapping the air to try and bite you, and lunging at you. These are all extremely serious signs of aggression and should not be taken lightly. However, once again, apart from actually biting down on you, they may not be being aggressive, but too rough during play. A Stiff Posture If your pup is dead still as you approach them or try to do something then this is another clear sign of aggression. They may also be snarling and showing you their teeth as well. Find out why your german shepherd puppy is barking and what to do! Fortunately, with this kind of aggression, once you know the cause, you can normally find a solution to stopping it. Here are some of the things to look for. The way to tell if the growling is aggressive or not is to see what the rest of their body is doing. It can also be another sign that your german shepherd pup is trying to play. Find out more about what to do if your german shepherd puppy is biting and nipping. There are a lot of different reasons, and each reason may be slightly unique to your pup. Here are some of the most common causes of aggression in german shepherds. In fact, this can often exacerbate the problem. Normally this could just be growling or snapping, but if you keep hurting them then they may end up biting you. If you think that your pup is in pain then you should take them to the vets ASAP. You have to remember, that we all have a fight or flight response. When one of my dogs was a pup, she used to do it over bones until we trained her. Predatory Aggression Aggression could also be predatory in nature. German Shepherds are herders, but also like to hunt prey. If they notice someone moving too quickly especially children that are screaming , then they may chase them. While you may think this is cute. Predatory aggression can be dangerous especially as your pup gets older and more powerful. You should never encourage predatory aggression no matter how cute it is, but instead, teach your pup how to behave properly. Territorial Aggression While territorial aggression generally happens in older dogs it can still happen in puppies. Territorial aggression is when someone enters what your pup considers their space. German shepherds are a lot more likely to show signs of territorial aggression than other breeds, after all, they are commonly used as guard dogs. Hormones While hormonal aggression is a lot more common in male german shepherd pups, it can still occur in females. During adolescence, male german shepherds are going to have high amounts of testosterone in their body, as you can probably guess this is going to increase their chances of being aggressive. One way you can lower the chance of aggression is by neutering your pup. Neutering them does increase the chance of them suffering from certain diseases while reducing the chances of them suffering from others. If you want to know more then check out this article about neutering your german shepherd! Rivalry Sometimes aggression can start when you have more than one dog in your home. This is more common when you buy more than one dog at a time ideally, you should wait two years between dogs. Have you ever wondered how hard a german shepherd can bite? Once again this comes down to their fight or flight. Unable to flee from perceived danger, the only thing they have left to do is fight. Find out more about your german shepherds teething as well as great toys you can give them. Genetics And Temperament Sometimes, just like with people, some german shepherds are just more aggressive than others. However, the chances of this are happening are quite small. Find out how to discipline a German Shepherd the right way! Fortunately, if you want to stop your german shepherd puppies aggression then there are plenty of different methods you can try. Otherwise, you may not get the best results. Speak To Your Vet The first thing you should do when your german shepherd pup is acting aggressive is to consult with your vet. Cheaper than replacing everything they might break. And definitely cheaper than a lawsuit against you, if they decide to bite someone. And the best part is it also has a day money-back guarantee! You can also check out a full review here , to learn exactly what the course has to offer! If your puppy is sitting patiently, playing nicely by themselves, or just generally remaining calm, give them lots of praise and affection. For every month old they are, take them out for 5 minutes. I use a KONG with my dogs and they absolutely love it. You just fill it up with food and your pup will spend hours of their day trying to get the food back out. Dogs can only do one thing at a time, so by giving her a task, I was stopping her from wanting to act aggressively. Interrupt Them As well as distracting them, another great tactic is to interrupt them. The best way to interrupt them is to do something that startles them which will immediately get them to stop. However, some people also have success rattling a can full of coins. Any noise will do, it just has to be sudden and sharp. Oftentimes this interruption is enough to stop aggressive behavior in puppies. Socialisation One of the most important things you can do for any dog is to socialize them. And the earlier you can socialize them the better. And this is also true with everything else. You can read this article to find out more about socialising your german shepherd puppy. Leave them for minutes and let them back in. Once the time is up, let them back in with you. However, once again this only works with play aggression. And you can do the same. If you give them attention and they start acting aggressive again, once again, just ignore them. What Should You Avoid Doing? This fear and mistrust can grow inside them and cause all sorts of negative emotions. If you hit your dog you may only end up amplifying their aggression in the long run. However, the results you get from these are often questionable. Remember, positive reinforcement is better than punishment. However, dogs will reciprocate your emotions. They may end up barking and growling or becoming more excitable. For the meanwhile you should stop playing these games with your pup until they act appropriately. Recap Now you know all the reasons that your german shepherd pup may be acting aggressively. While most of the time it may just be over-excitability as a puppy, there are times when aggression is more serious. The most important thing you can do is speak to a vet or pet behaviourist to help sort out the issues. And remember, there are a lot of reasons that can cause aggression in german shepherds, but also a lot of solutions! Otherwise have a great day! Related Posts:. This is simply not true. A dominant GSD essentially likes to be the center of attention and will do what it needs to do in order to establish that. It is not acting in a way that is coming from a fear of some sort, instead it acts in a way that is an attempt to prove to the world that it is the leader and needs to be taken seriously. Shows his strength: He will never give up on a game of tug of war, be it with you or another dog. He will show that he is stronger than the next dog or person each and every opportunity that arises. Stare downs: He is all about eye contact, but not as a sign of affection. His intent is to show you that he will not budge and that you should seriously consider submitting to him. He will do this with both people and other dogs. Mounting: He will, bluntly put, mount anything that he can. He will not discern between male and female, as this is not an attempt to mate, but more a showing that he is in control. One of my dogs used to just take bones away from my Rottweiller and go sit with them on his own bed. An aggressive GSD is coming from an entirely different place psychologically than a dominant one. Instead, there is either a primal instinct or learned fear from a past experience that is traumatizing the dog and causing it to lash out with aggression. Types of aggression Possessive: At one time, dogs had to protect their food supply and sleeping dens from other predators. This primal behavior sometimes takes root in the modern dog and it becomes protective of its food and bones, lashing out at anyone who gets near. You may not even know that you are close, but they are the first to let you know. So for my second GSD I made it a point as a puppy to get him used to my hand in his food bowl when he was eating and I would hold onto bones while he chewed them. This resulted in him simply not minding at all. In fact, as he got older, he would bring bones over for me to hold for him so that he could get a better chewing angle. Fearful aggression: This generally occurs when a dog feels that it has to defend itself, but it has nowhere to go. If given a choice, most dogs that exhibit this type of aggression will retreat and remove themselves from the situation. But if they are backed into a corner, they may feel that aggression is their only recourse. Defensive aggression: This is very similar to fearful aggression. It still arises out of fear, except the difference is that the defensively aggressive dog will not use retreat as its first option. Instead of letting itself get backed into a corner, it would rather handle the situation before it gets to that point. Aggression due to pain: This can cause a normally gentle and calm dog to become aggressive in an instant and with no warning. This is may happen if the dog has an underlying medical condition, or if it perceives something as likely to be painful. This is one reason that dogs often lash out at veterinarians. The dog is not really thinking, it is just reacting. A territorial aggressive dog may simply bark at unfamiliar people attempting to enter the home or property, but sometimes they will not just bark but will also bite — regardless of who the person is. Many dogs will instinctually chase something that it thinks is getting away. This can be a kid on a skateboard or bike, a car, a jogger, or any number of other things just moving by. Protective aggression: This behavior is sometimes displayed by dogs, especially German Shepherds, when they feel that part of their family is being threatened. It is this type of aggression that often leads mothers to be protective of their litters as well as any dog being protective over a new baby in the family. Frustrated aggression: A dog may display this when held back from something that it wants. For example, if a dog is excited and wants to interact with another person or animal and you try to restrain it, some dogs may become aggressive out of frustration. The potential for a German Shepherd to become aggressive begins at a young age. It actually begins when they are just several weeks old and under the care of their mother. This job is not an easy one. Consider a human mother being overwhelmed with a child — the mother of a litter of puppies is in the same circumstance. Just like people, first-time moms can have it rough. A GSD who is a first-time mom may just be overwhelmed. This stressful situation is also one which causes a lot of fear in the mother. And when frightened, a German Shepherd mom might not act rationally — she may even act aggressively towards her puppies. If a mother acts aggressively towards her puppies, then the puppies will no doubt also become frightened. It is at this point that her puppies, because of their fear, may also begin to become prone to aggression. This will also make them more difficult to train as they get older. One lesson here is that you need to make sure that your breeder is using the proper dogs for having puppies. If you plan on getting a puppy, make sure that you discuss this point in-depth with your breeder. The actions that you take when your GSD is a puppy and growing up as a young adult are key to preventing aggression. Consistency in Training As your puppy is growing up, it will be exposed to all manner of different things that are brand new to it. There will be new people, new places, objects, new animals, and just new experiences all around. While your puppy is going through all these changes, there needs to be a constant. And that constant is you. More specifically, the constant is you and the discipline that you give to your puppy. Disciplining here does not mean correcting your dog every time it does something wrong. Rather it means positively reinforcing your GSD every time that it does something correctly. And the best way to make sure that your dog is doing something correctly is to associate a reward with something that it wants. The first step to accomplish this is by requiring your dog to perform an action any time that it wants something. Examples Your puppy is approaching you and whining to go outside. Your first instinct may just be to take the puppy outside. Do not do take the puppy outside before making it sit. As your puppy gets a little bit older and accustomed to doing this one simple action, you will need to increase what you require of your puppy. Just as a teenager needs responsibilities to grow, so does your puppy if you want to keep it disciplined and away from aggressive behavior. Your puppy is wanting a treat. Before the puppy is allowed to have a treat, make it lie down and roll over first. Your puppy is coming to you and asking for a walk. Have the puppy go over and sit, lie down, and stay by the door. Your puppy is coming to you and wants to play. Have the puppy shake and roll over, then shake again, and then sit. Use your imagination with all of this, your GSD puppy is very smart. You may even find that your puppy begins to approach you after doing these behaviors for some time and just does them on its own. This is ok — praise your puppy for asking politely. This is a good way to teach it that it cannot always get everything that it wants whenever it wants it. But going down this route will be setting you up for failure. Just like a teenager, if you give them too much and they have to do nothing to earn it, they may begin to feel entitled, and reluctant to work for anything in life. Your puppy really is no different. Depending on the puppy, if you deny it what it wants, some may sulk, some may accept it, and some may express their frustration by growling or even biting. If this occurs, your number one priority is to keep cool. Do not express any negative emotion or raise your voice. Keep cool and stay quiet. And under no circumstances should you get physical with your dog. Do not try to restrain it, and certainly never smack or hit it. Many many people often make this mistake. This could not be further from the truth. When a German Shepherd shows aggression towards someone and is met with aggression back, the dog views it as a challenge — and a German Shepherd will not back down from a challenge. Your dog is simply trying to get your attention. So now this is another attempt and nothing more. Do not read into it beyond that. And if you meet your dog getting physical with you getting physical, you are simply showing it that it has now found a way to get your attention when all else has failed. Maybe I should do that next time. If you do not approach this situation in the proper manner, you will be setting a terrible example for your dog, and creating a pattern that you may never be able to train out of it. So be smart about it, you can keep your cool. And you must. Follow these steps: Remain unresponsive and nonreactive. Do not raise your voice or say anything at all to your dog. Once you are in another room, calmly speak to your dog and command it to sit and lie down. Stay in this place with your dog until it calms down. It may whine at first or even bark. But just stay the course until your dog is calm. Let bygones be bygones. Do not hold a grudge. Your dog loves you and has limitless forgiveness toward you — you should have the same attitude. If you lay each brick carefully, you will have a solid wall. But if you fail to lay a brick, or lay it improperly, you will have an unreliable wall that will not stand the test of time. Understand that this will take time, repetition, and consistency on your part. Just be patient and build your wall properly. And know that if you do it properly, the odds are very much in your favor that this type of aggressive behavior will be trained out of your dog. If you fail to do this properly however, you may be opening a door that down the line could lead your dog biting someone or even worse. Socialization Is Key This topic is addressed a number of times on this site because it is so important. So before we even begin on this topic, be sure to take a look at or bookmark the article linked below: How To Socialize Your German Shepherd A German Shepherd that is not properly socialized may grow up to be timid, it may have anxiety problems, it may be depressed, or the worst-case scenario is that it may become aggressive. One of the reasons that you likely got your German Shepherd is because you love the idea that it is naturally protective of you. Your German Shepherd does not need any specialized attack or protection training for this to happen, it comes instinctually to a German Shepherd. Your German Shepherd was bred to be protective, and they are territorial by nature, so it is its instinct to protect you and your home. When confronted with a new situation, your dog will use its best judgment in determining how to react. But without having the proper foundation for making good decisions, such as a variety of past experiences that you created for your dog, there is no telling how it may react. Because its instinct is to protect you, if it misjudges a situation as one that warrants being fearful, it may well act aggressively in an effort to protect you. Socialization Overview People When a German Shepherd is meeting a new person for the first time, it may not know what to think, and on an instinctual level, it is gauging whether the person is friend or foe. So when introducing your GSD to a new person, your behavior is key, as well as the behavior of the other person. The person needs to be aware of the purpose of your meeting. The person must clearly understand: The purpose of them meeting your dog socializing it. To remain calm and act only in a positive manner. To not make any sudden movements, especially towards you. If you are near your home, then not to make any sudden movements towards your property. I will give you an example from my personal experience when the other person did not do as instructed, and they got nipped. Keep in mind, however, that the following account was with one of my dogs when he was around 1 year old and was being trained to protect our home. Therefore, his natural protective instincts were heightened. It nonetheless serves as a good example of what can go wrong if an introduction is not made properly. I began by introducing a friend of mine to my dog off of our property. They got along well, so we then progressed to the point where I would hand the leash over to my friend and he would walk the dog himself, again off of the property. Then we gradually brought my friend into the yard. Me, my friend, and my dog would sit and the yard and talk while my friend petted my dog. But I advised my friend never to make the first move towards the house and to always let me lead the way. My friend got a little bit too confident because the dog and him and were interacting very well. And because of his overconfidence, he just became absent-minded and decided to make a move towards the house. And for the dog, there was no grudge, no further aggression — no nothing. The situation was over for the dog. To him, he was just clearly defining his boundaries. I had done the same thing multiple times with different people who all followed my direction, and my dog grew to love each one of them. Had my friend in the above instance carefully listened to and followed my instructions, there would have been no problem. He would have been able to come into the house in a matter of minutes and there would have been no issues with the dog at all. The point in relating this story is to make sure that whoever you are socializing your dog with is prepared, and to ensure that all introductions go smoothly. You should introduce your German Shepherd to new people frequently and in different settings. Make one introduction near your home. Make another introduction in your home. Do another while out shopping. Do another inside of your car. Any circumstance that you may ever potentially be in with your dog and another person needs to be covered during this time in his life. Proper socialization also includes your dog being introduced to all different kinds of people. Introduce your GSD to: tall people. Are German Shepherds Dangerous? December 30, German Shepherds were originally bred as protection animals. Therefore, they have protective and territorial instincts that other dogs may not have. There are a lot of mixed opinions about this topic — as well as a lot of mixed science that seems to back up both sides. Most aggressive German Shepherds are aggressive because of their owners. German Shepherds need to be socialized and trained so that their territorial instincts can be harnessed. To accept individuals into their homes, German Shepherds need to be taught that not everyone is bad. In fact, these dogs can be extremely gentle when raised properly. However, not everyone who owns a German Shepherd is responsible. Without the proper knowledge, these dogs may not get the socialization they need to thrive. On the other hand, other owners know perfectly well what the German Shepherd needs — but find it more difficult to provide for those needs than they originally expected. They may get the care they need as adults but then be mostly kept to themselves as puppies. The American Veterinary Medical Association ran a whole study on whether or not particular dog breeds were more likely to be aggressive than others. However, it is essential to realize that these breeds are also more common in the United States. In Canada, most dog bites are attributes to Siberian Huskies and other sled dogs — likely because these are the most common breeds there. Similarly, in Rome, Italy, Mastiffs were found to have the highest bite occurrence. However, they are also one of the most popular dogs in that area. Furthermore, the popularity of different breeds coincided with bite reports. The more popular a breed was, the higher that bite statistic rose. It seems to be largely associated with the popularity of the breed, not their actual aggression levels. Based on behavioral assessments, small breeds seem to be the most aggressive — not larger breeds like the German Shepherd. However, these bites are largely underreported because they do not usually require treatment. Bites on children statistically come from small breed dogs, like Chihuahua and Lhasa Apsos. The statistical difference in bites reported between children and adults likely comes from the fact that children need treatment after a small breed bite, while adults do not. The behavioral assessments for German Shepherds are mixed. This suggests that there is likely high variability within the breed. Some German Shepherds are much more likely to be aggressive than others, in other words. Again, socialization and training play a large role in this. Adopting your dog from a qualified breeder is also important. After all, genetics do play a role as well. There is no evidence that German Shepherds are more likely to bite their owner than any other breed. Like all dogs, German Shepherds will protect themselves if threatened. If an owner is too rough with a German Shepherd, they may try to defend themselves by biting. This trait can be said for all breeds , though. No dog is going to submit to injury if they feel like they can defend themselves. Again, we highly recommend socializing this breed at a young age. Most bites are caused by fear, including those directed at people. For instance, dogs are commonly afraid of umbrellas. At the same time, you should also familiarize yourself with proper dog training. Positive reinforcement training works best, as there is a very small chance that the dog is going to react negatively to treats. After all, dogs bite things they are scared of! Dominance training has been disproven for dozens of years. It can also make your dog react negatively, causing your dog to bite. Are German Shepherds Naturally Aggressive? They were bred to protect herds of sheep and were then utilized for military and police work. Their protective instincts are still with them today, as they are commonly still used as guard and protection dogs. They are not Labrador retrievers in the least! They are very calm family dogs in most cases, especially if they are socialized from a young age. They are not particularly more likely to bite than other breeds when properly socialized and trained. There is a lot of variation amongst German Shepherds, though. Some are more likely to bite than others. Much of this depends on the training, though genetics can play a role as well. If you purchase a German Shepherd as a puppy, we highly recommend purchasing them from a quality breeder. Breeders are not going to breed a dog if they are overly aggressive and untrainable. Dogs are born with innate instincts and behaviors — including territorial behaviors. All German Shepherds will display territorial behaviors from their birth. These are innate instincts. A little German Shepherd puppy is going to be at least somewhat wary of strangers. It will likely take a least a year for a German Shepherd to get large enough to actually be intimidating. Before this time, these dogs will likely be too small and puppylike. However, it can take up to two years before a puppy is full-grown. The instincts will be there from birth, though. German Shepherds can be great pets — for the right family. However, there are many cases when they can make very poor pets. German Shepherd dogs require significant amounts of training. Not only do they need to be taught how to behave, but these dogs are also extremely intelligent. Therefore, you should continue to train them even after they have mastered all the basic commands. However, it is particularly important for German Shepherds. Sadly, good breeders can be difficult to come by. These dogs are quite popular, so there are lots of breeders out there. Many people mistakenly believe that purebred dogs are healthier than mixed breeds. However, the opposite is true. Purebred dogs are prone to a variety of genetic conditions, including the German Shepherd. Hip dysplasia and a wide variety of other conditions are common in this breed. German Shepherds shed a lot. They require daily brushing in some cases. You should only adopt from a breeder that puts temperament at the forefront. You need to socialize German Shepherds a lot. They need to be introduced to many different people so that they know that not everyone is a threat. You only want them protecting you and your family from bad people — not everyone. German Shepherds usually live between 10 to 14 years. However, 15 years is not unheard of. Final Thoughts German Shepherds have the potential to be aggressive. Every dog does. However, with the correct socialization and training, these dogs can easily be trained to accept others into their territory. However, these dogs are a big responsibility. Be sure to carefully consider whether or not you want a German Shepherd before you adopt one. Your actions will largely determine whether or not they become aggressive. Author: Kristin Kristin was born in Tennessee and currently lives there with her husband and children. She is passionate about educating pet parents and helping them make the best possible decisions for their pets. She currently owns one dog, two cats, a lizard, and a variety of fish. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.

Why do you think the police force and military are using the German Shepherd so much? Sure, a Doberman can do the job just fine and there are definitely dog breeds that have stronger olfactory senses or stronger bites but they may not be willing to obey every command in every situation. They are too intelligent to outright obey everything which can sometimes be perceived as stubborn. Does that mean the German Shepherd is not smart? Absolutely not. In fact, the German Shepherd is often cited as one of the smartest dog breeds, right after their cousin the Belgian Shepherd, also known as Malinois. Their will to please outranks. How trainable is the German Shepherd Husky mix? Well, the Husky is known to be quite independent by design. So even though pairing these two very smart dog breeds makes sense at first glance, a Shepherd Husky mix might not be as easy to train as imagined. That being said, pairing a German Shepherd with a more agreeable Husky can certainly help. Genetics and temperament of the parents always play a pretty big role. This is not always the case and even a purebred may struggle with protection without proper direction and training. Always consult a professional to avoid teaching your dog negative behavior patterns barking at strangers on walks, lunging at dogs, and so on. Huskies are incredibly enduring. How could they not, they were bred to run hundreds of miles in very cold climates. But their original working purpose was quite specific and they may need to have an outlet for this desire to run. Training your dog early on will prevent behavioral issues in the future and gets your dog used to brain training. Since both breeds are relatively high energy, you need to walk your Shepsky at least twice a day for a minimum of minutes each. The German Shepherd is known to be a formidable family dog while the Husky can be quite reserved. Huskies are used to living and working in a pack and can be very sociable animals while Shepherds develop a deep bond with their owners. Although pairing these two breeds can produce great family dogs, there are other large dog breeds that are even suitable for apartment living out there that are very patient with children and also perfect for guarding property. Expect to have a very smart dog that will challenge you throughout the day. He will probably grow into a medium to large-sized dog with a weight of about 40 to 80 pounds. Both dogs are working breeds so you can expect a Shepsky to have high exercise needs. A task or daily job would keep them the happiest. Grooming Both dog breeds can have relatively similar coat types. Huskies have a thick double coat, meaning an undercoat plus guard hair. While the undercoat is soft and dense, the guard hairs are straight and somewhat smooth. Depending on the specific pairing, the coat can be a toin coss. Be ready for shedding seasons with both of these dogs. You can expect your male German Shepherd Husky mix to be in cm with a weight of lbs kg. Female German Shepherd Husky mixes range from in cm , weighing in at lbs kg. Apartment Living Can you live in an apartment with a high-energy dog like the German Shepherd Husky mix? It depends. If you provide your dog with an outlet for his exercise needs which means lots of walks, play, and training then there should be absolutely no problem. However, their tendency for high-pitched barks or howling may cause problems with your neighbors. Proper training will help and entails teaching your dog the quiet command. Would I advise you to buy a mixed breed from a breeder? Definitely not. There are far too many mixed breeds sitting in shelters and waiting to be chosen. As long as there are no health issues present in their ancestry, you could argue that mixed breeds might be healthier than purebreds from backyard breeders. Beware of backyard breeders mixing in a third breed without stating so. Make sure to check out my breeder questions before you fall victim to scammers or backyard breeders. Make sure to talk to a veterinarian or nutritionist first. Do you have a German Shepherd Husky mix? Share with us your experiences in the comments below! The resulting dog is a genetic gamble in terms of health and temperament and offers no advantage to a health-tested dog or rescuing. Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation. Like its German shepherd parent, it is a natural protector, however, at times, it might tend to become over-protective as well. For this reason, it is also advisable not to leave too young kids with them alone because over-possessiveness and too much of protection might lead to unpleasant incidents. They have a fearless heart, and are also alert and brave. These are working dogs, and have a good ability to guard their families. Otherwise, they are good with kids and other pets. They are not always comfortable with strangers, and might at times get wary of them. They are high-spirited and are basically intelligent, and would enjoy learning new things. Being the offspring of two breeds that are used to cold temperatures, the gerberians also do much better in colder climates, and are not a good choice for owners living near desert regions. Those that are left alone for too long tend to become quite vocal and howl frequently. Care Exercise They love jogging and running, and would easily make you a good jogger if you think you hate to run. This is also something that they need. Take them out for long walks and jogs since they are dogs of loads of energy and the need to burn them out, or else, they would tend to become destructive. They love you and want you to take interest in what they like. Take part in activities and release your dog from its leash in an open yard. However, make sure, the place is securely fenced. Grooming The frequency of grooming completely depends upon what coat type your gerberian has. However, because they have a double coat, brush them at least times a week on an average. This will surely remove their dead hair and maintain the natural sheen, enhancing secretion of body oils. You must also keep in mind another thing. These dogs hate water to be poured over them, and hence, do not bathe them as long as you are too sure that they actually need one. They also have a tendency developing ear wax. Clean their ears if you find the same collected. But for this, an expert hand of a professional is recommended. Health Problems Otherwise fit like most other cross breeds, the gerberian shepsky is not immune to pick up dog diseases that are common to all other breeds, especially those that are large-sized. They might also develop issues that are genetically forwarded from their parents down to them. Training If the gerberian shepskies are more inclined towards the side of their husky parents, it tends to be independent and obstinate. For this, a very effective, strong and commanding pack leader is required to train the Siberian Husky German Shepherd mix puppies in a firm but gentle way. Give them food treats, or show them that you are impressed. This should work more effectively than trying to tame your shepsky in a harsh way. Most breeds prefer moist foods, and canned foods contain high levels of moisture and are also fresh with better concentrations of proteins and vitamins. This is especially crucial during their years of growth. Also, these dogs have often been seen to be having allergic to regular foods like egg, soy, wheat, lamb, corn, beef, chicken, and dairy products. Interesting Facts The gerberian shepkies must never be annoyed or teased while they are drinking water or having food. Life expectancy The dog can live years. Highly loving dog with family and young children. Extremely good with other dogs as well Social When trained well, it can be friendly to strangers. This dog is very playful and protective, thus, a suitable guard dog. It adapts quickly to new commands and other elements of the environment. The dog is friendly to strangers, especially when the family is around. It can play non-stopLess protective; hence not a good watchdog. It adapts easily to new environments. Personality and temperament It responds excellently to training and is a high-energy dog. It shows moderate barking and needs engagement to stimulate its mental activity. It responds well to training. It shows high energy levels and is very vocal; it barks a lot. It requires plenty of mental stimulation activities Overall This is a courageous, confident, and intelligent dog. This is a loyal, outgoing but mischievous dog. On average, you have a mix inches .The erect ears and sharp golden brown or brown eyes of the German Shepherd are evident in the mix. The coat is just as dense and medium-length as the German Shepherd or the Siberian Husky. However, the popular colors of the mix come in brown, cream, white, red, and blue. That said, you want to have this dog in a spacious environment where it will be free to play when the need arises. They value family and would play and have a lot of fun even with children. The dog strikes a good balance between friendliness to strangers and being protective when a threat appears. While the dog can have a bit of mischief, proper training can eliminate uncouth behavior. Avoid too much table scraps or human food to control some lifestyle diseases. Bathing can happen only a few times a year. This is because the hybrid takes much from the parents and has a forgiving coat that does not require much maintenance. Trim the nails to avoid foot problems. Health: Remember that this mix can be vulnerable to diseases such as patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and progressive retinal atrophy. Be swift to take it for veterinary checkups, tests, and treatments. Regular exercise: Exercising your dog is a must-do thing. The White German Shepherd husky is an offspring of highly-active parents. Make sure you incorporate reward-based training for a better response. While this breed may not be suitable for every lifestyle or living situation, those who are able to provide the proper care and attention will be rewarded with a loving, affectionate, and energetic companion. Are you looking for quality website content to get your website to the next level? If so, please visit the Service Page for details on website content writing service. The German Shepherd Husky mix is a relatively new designer dog breed. Very little is known about where and when it originated. Many dog experts claim that the first of this kind was bred intentionally sometime in the late s. Originally, a German Shepherd and a Siberian Husky parents were mated to produce a first-rate working dog, since both the parents are excellent working dogs. Soon, because of their sheer strength and quick intellect, they were used to assist with search-and-rescue operations and took military and police roles. It would help to get a glimpse of the origin of the parent breeds to have a better understanding of German Shepherd Husky mix. The German Shepherd , which originated in in Germany, were used to herd sheep and pull heavy loads under tough conditions. They were imported and used as sled dogs during the Alaskan Gold Rush. The breed eventually became popular throughout Canada and the United States as great pets. The Siberian Husky is believed to have originated over two millennia ago from the Siberian Arctic. Nomadic Indian tribes used these dogs to help with pulling sleds and heavy loads. The Siberian Huskies made their way to North America in the s. Despite having relatively short history, German Shepherd Husky mixes have already become fashionable and increasingly common. German Shepherd Husky Mix Puppies! For the most part, when two different thoroughbred canines mate, the puppies will most often inherit traits from their parents. This will vary from litter to litter, of course. But rest assured that German Shepherd Husky mix puppies look a lot like their parents in terms of how they look as well as their personality or temperament. This striking creature has a medium to long head and a strong, somewhat pointy muzzle. A German Shepherd Husky has pointy triangular ears and a set of alert almond-shaped eyes. The puppies of these parent breeds are well-built, energetic, and athletic. German Shepherd Husky mixes are super fluffy and their beautiful coat contributes to their attractive appearance. Like German Shepherds and Siberian Huskies, this designer dog has a double coat. It has a tough top coat and an insulating layer of undercoat that is made up of short hair. The undercoat protects and keeps the dogs warm in cold regions. Some of their undercoat will shed during the months of summer, keeping them nice and cool during the hotter weather. All in all, the coat of German Shepherd Husky mixes is not only beautiful, but functional as well. Husky German Shepherd Size. What is the size of a typical Husky German Shepherd Mix? Expect the size to be from the smallest Siberian Husky to the biggest German Shepherd. A Siberian Husky is a medium-sized dog that usually grow up to around 20 to 23 inches in height. On the other hand, a German Shepherd is categorized as a large breed and can grow up to around 22 to 26 inches tall. So expect your Husky German Shepherd Mix to be between 20 and 26 inches tall. When talking about weight, Siberian Huskies weigh between 35 and 60 pounds, while German Shepherds are much heavier at around 49 to 88 pounds. So perhaps the weight of a Husky German Shepherd Mix will be from 35 to 88 pounds. This can also be due the gender of the dog. The most common color combinations are brown-black and white-black. The color of you German Shepherd and Husky Mix is simply a product of genetics. These dogs are: Good guard dogs. They inherited this characteristic from their parents. But they can be excessive barkers. Compared to some other breeds, they learn things quickly because of their higher cognitive abilities. They will always put you first before themselves. They are well-loved because they are affectionate. Be prepared to pet them all day long. These dogs mix well with other pets and with people. They are trusting. These dogs may be naughty at times, but they are very dignified. Active and powerful. They are energetic and need regular training and exercise. They need at least one walk every day. They are the ultimate dogs! They are known for their energy. They get bored and sometimes mischievous when they lack physical and mental stimulation. As mentioned before, this hybrid is also intelligent, loyal, playful, and very trainable. A Husky German Shepherd Mix is an alpha dog and may get somewhat aggressive or do naughty things if its owner is not firm. On the other hand, your dog may inherit the calm and gentle behavior of the Siberian Husky. A Husky German Shepherd Mix with this demeanor can be clingy with their owner. This hybrid loves to take part in various activities with you. Some owners let their friends engage in fieldwork, herding, and the likes, but these dogs will also have fun playing outdoors, jogging, walking, and hiking. While the Husky German Shepherd mix is friendly, warming up to other dogs and strangers may take time. And since the coat is super fluffy, it mats and tangles easily. So, regular grooming of your dog is necessary to prevent matting. Brush your German Shepherd Husky mix several times a week. On top of this, take your dog to a qualified groomer every two months. Remember, start grooming your pups from an early age so they get used to the process. Bathe your dog when needed. Ear check Wax may build up in the ears of German Shepherd Husky mixes fairly often. You should clean their ears carefully using a dog-friendly cleaning solution and cotton balls or cotton buds. This will keep the ear canal clean and reduce ear odors. Remove these parasites in their entirety to reduce discomfort and risk of infection. Dental hygiene The dental hygiene of your German Shepherd Husky mix is also an important part of their grooming process. Also, this dog needs high-quality dry food to keep its gums healthy and strong. Nail grooming In addition to the abovementioned grooming requirements, also make sure that the nails of your German Shepherd Husky mix are trimmed or groomed regularly. This activities is often stressful for the dog. This is because new genes are introduced to the existing pool, strengthening and widening it. However, even a hybrid dog like a German Shepherd mixed with Husky can inherit health conditions from one or both of their parents. This hybrid lives between 10 to 13 years, and during this lifespan, they can develop different health issues. These include: Elbow and hip dysplasia. Problem in the formation of the joints, which usually results into painful arthritis. Juvenile cataracts. The opacity of the lens of the eyes of the dog, which often causes blindness. Corneal dystrophy The accumulation of abnormal materials in the cornea, causing visual impairment. Progressive retinal atrophy PRA. This happens in the twilight years, with symptoms including night blindness, dilated pupils, inability to see in bright light. Bloating of the stomach, which results in the stomach twisting around itself. Failure to produce enough enzymes necessary for digesting meals. Excessive bleeding caused by a defective platelet functioning. Cancer is prevalent in this hybrid. Anal furunculosis. This is an inflammatory bone disease. German Shepherd Huskies are particularly at risk of airborne, contact, and food allergies. A neurological disorder causing uncontrolled seizures and loss of consciousness. This is perhaps the most frightening thing that can happen to this dog. Impaired thyroid function, dwarfism, footpad disorders, nasal cavity tumors, and eczema German Shepherd Mix With Husky Food Recommendations In terms of its dietary needs, the strong and athletic Husky German Shepherd Mix requires a high-protein diet. Provide a diet that is rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Be careful with foods that contain common allergens such as lamb and egg Give your dog supplements depending on the age of the mix. German Shepherd Mixes are picky eaters, so look for a brand that matches the needs of your dog and try to stick with it. These dogs have a high risk for digestive diseases. So, you must ask your vet for recommendations. The first step is to provide them with balanced nutrition by making sure you opt for best dry dog food, which you can also find in Wellness Core Dog Food , Dog For Dog Food , or Nutra Thrive dog food supplement. Prior to making any change in their diet plan, consult with your vet. If your buddy is older, try to get any formula from the best senior dry dog food list that will help extend their lifespan. Puppy pups have a bit different diet requirements and you can find the top-quality food for your little companions in the best puppy food brands list. Their parents are working dogs, so they have unparalleled energy and can engage in physical activities without getting tired. What they need is a regular exercise to maintain and improve their strength and endurance. Your dog needs some off-leash time. Dog parks and fenced yards are great places for this. A Husky mixed with German Shepherd that is free to play stays happy. Playing also mentally stimulates the dog. They will increasingly become frustrated and use their intelligence to do naughty things around your house: digging up, chewing on furniture and other things, non-stop howling, and trying to escape. What stimulation or exercise your dogs need depends upon their motivation and temperament. German Shepherd and Husky Mix Training Suggestions A fairly intelligent breed interested in learning and in caring for their owner, a German Shepherd and Husky Mix is relatively easy to train. Not properly trained, these dogs can acquire habits that make the owners clench their teeth pull their hair out. From howling too much to knocking things over to chewing on shoes, there are many things you must keep your dog from doing. A German Shepherd and Husky Mix is very sensitive to vocal commands, making the training process more efficient and much easier. Start obedience training at an early age to prevent annoying habits from developing, and so that you and your pup both can live a happy life together. However, it has a predatory nature, and without proper socialization or training, it might get inro trouble with rodent-type pets or even cats. They can also be extremely overprotective of children and other members of the family. If they feel that the humans they love are in danger, they may attack strangers, so watch them for this kind of behavior. We all know that every dog is unique, so you must socialize them correctly to prevent any untoward incidents. Known to be intelligent and extremely loyal, the German Shepherd Husky Mix is a fun loving, sweet, and pleasant dog. It is great service or companion dog for the family. Getting a dog with a Siberian Husky or a German Shepherd descent can break the bank for many first-time owners. Lucky for them, the Siberian Husky German Shepherd is a relatively affordable dog. Be warned, though. Proper breeding costs a lot of money when it comes to veterinary care, health screening, vaccinations, flea treatments, deworming, and many other procedures to ensure that the puppy is healthy. While herding dogs were being bred in Germany throughout the 19th century, the first formally recognized German Shepherd was registered by Max von Stephanitz in .The dog, named Horand von Grafrath, was the result of several generations of selective breeding to create a working dog ideal for herding sheep. The German Shepherd has a very forceful bite, and they are often mischaracterized as aggressive and likely to harm humans. However, while German Shepherds are responsible for a large number of canine attacks on humans, this is largely due to their popularity as pets and how abundant they are rather than any natural, breed-specific aggression. German Shepherds are actually considered great family pets, and they are known to be very good with children, though they can also be somewhat overprotective. .The Siberian Husky, in contrast, comes from Northeastern Asia where they were bred by the Chukchi people of Siberia to pull sleds. The result is an active breed with a lot of endurance that just loves to run. These dogs do very well in cold climates, and they were introduced to Alaska around as part of the Alaskan Nome Gold Rush. While you will still find these dogs working in some frozen terrains, they are now popular household pets. While they are energetic, friendly, and excellent with children, they are also troublemakers if not trained and socialized properly. They enjoy digging, chewing, jumping, and generally escaping any kind of confined space. Both dogs are of a similar size and have a wolf-like appearance, which is part of what made them prime candidates for crossbreeding. What Are Crossbred Dogs? It is worth noting that crossbred dogs, sometimes called designer dogs, are dogs that have been intentionally bred by mixing two or more recognized breeds. It is not a term for dogs bred accidentally or without purebred ancestors. However, crossbred dogs are not recognized as separate breeds in their own right, so their behavior and characteristics are not as predictable as purebred dogs. One of the advantages of purebred dogs is that it is relatively easy to predict their size, appearance, and temperament. Gerberian Shepsky Appearance As both German Shepherds and Siberian Huskies are medium-sized dogs with a wolf-like appearance, you can expect similar traits from their offspring. German Shepherds tend to be considered medium-to-large-sized dogs. Males typically measure 24 to 26 inches in height at the withers, and the females are usually a bit smaller at 22 to 24 inches. However, both sexes tend to look bigger than other dogs of a similar height, as they have very long necks. Siberian Huskies are a bit smaller, measuring between 19 and 24 inches and weighing between 35 and 60 pounds on average. The females are at the smaller end of the spectrum, and the males are at the larger end. As a result, you can expect Shepskies to be around the smaller range for German Shepherds, with males ranging from 22 to 25 inches and females ranging from 20 to 24 inches in height. When it comes to their weight, males tend to be between 50 to 80 pounds, while females weigh a bit less at 40 to 70 pounds. Shepsky puppies tend to have a distinctive wolf-like appearance, with pointed ears and long noses inherited from both parents. Their eyes will either be brown or blue, and some individuals might have the distinctive dual eye color often associated with huskies. Both parent breeds have a coat ideal for colder climates, so this is something that can be expected from their offspring. They typically have a dual coat with a dense, soft undercoat and another layer of more durable guard hairs on top. As German Shepherds can have either medium-to-long outer coats, the same is true of their Gerberian Shepsky offspring. They are almost never one solid color and will almost always be a mix of at least two different colors. One thing you can expect from all Shepsky coats is that they will be high shedding. Anyone with an allergy to dog hair should be wary about adopting a Shepsky! Gerberian Shepsky Temperament German Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs, and they are also highly motivated to please, which makes them one of the most trainable dog breeds out there. This quality is also why they are such good working dogs. Siberian Huskies are also very intelligent, but they are far more independent. They have been bred to make challenging decisions while running across dangerous arctic territories, so problem-solving is a necessary skill. As a result, while your Shepsky will almost certainly be a very intelligent dog, they might be a bit more troublesome to train than a German Shepherd. Alternatively, they might choose to entertain themselves by digging or chewing. Both breeds were created to spend a lot of time with humans, with Huskies often staying indoors with their families for warmth. This means they tend to bond quickly with their people and are very good with smaller family members though very small children should never be left unsupervised with any dog. While German Shepherds tend to have guard dog-like protective instincts, Huskies are pack animals and enjoy the company of other dogs. So, it is difficult to predict whether your Shepsky crossbreed will display more alpha-like behavior or be more submissive and play well with other pets. Remember, proper socialization training can go a long way when it comes to ensuring that they play well with others regardless of their temperament. Neither parent breed tends to bark excessively, but your Shepsky will get vocal if they want to alert you to a threat. Huskies tend to howl rather than bark, so keep in mind you might end up with a Shepsky with an adorable howl that may disturb the neighbors. If you do find yourself with a barker, read our guide on dealing with excessive or nuisance barking. Overall, expect your dog to be high energy, combining the herding instinct of a German Shepherd with the running mandate of a Siberian Husky. Caring For A German Shepherd Husky Mix Shepskies tend to be highly trainable, so an experienced dog owner should be able to train them at home using basic positive reinforcement training. Shepskies do best when they have a large backyard where they can spend their energy. Remember, they can be escape artists, which means they need a space that is securely fenced. Fences at least six feet tall are recommended. In addition to having plenty of space, Shepskies need a lot of exercise. They should be taken outside at least twice a day for a minimum of minutes at a time. Dog parks where they can run around off-leash are ideal, as it lets them stretch their legs and burn off excess energy. Just make sure they have been properly socialized before letting them loose. They are not ideal pets for people who spend most of the week in the office or traveling for work. Expect your Shepsky to engage in destructive behavior when they are feeling the stress of abandonment. Shepskies tend to have fairly dry coats. Huskies do not have oily coats, and they will often pass this trait down to their crossbred children. Avoid excessive washing to prevent drying them out further. Regular brushing is advisable to remove shedding hair, since these dogs tend to shed a lot. This is both for their comfort and to make cleanup around the home a little more manageable for you. Shepsky Health Concerns Shepskies have a relatively long lifespan for dogs of their size, and you can expect them to live for around 10 to 14 years. Shepskies can develop joint conditions, particularly in their elbows and hips, which can lead to pain and discomfort moving as they age. Adequate exercise and an orthopedic bed that allows them to take the pressure off their joints are both useful tools in preventing these issues. This unique crossbreed can also be prone to developing eye conditions such as canine glaucoma, corneal dystrophy, juvenile cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. Losing at least some of their eyesight in later life is a common concern. German Shepherd Husky mixes are also slightly more susceptible to developing epilepsy than most other breeds, though the condition is still relatively rare. Medications exist to help manage this condition. This can be prevented with regular cleaning and maintenance. You might be able to find a Gerberian Shepsky in a local shelter to adopt for a small fee, or you can opt to find a dedicated Shepsky breeder. Do Gerberian Shepskies shed a lot? Yes, German Shepherd Husky mixes shed a lot, and there is no getting around it. Both parent breeds have a thick winter coat that is prone to shedding, so this is a common characteristic in their offspring. If you are looking for a medium-sized low shedding dog, consider something with the Poodle breed in the mix, such as a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle. Poodles have a low-shedding coat that they typically pass on to their crossbred offspring. Do German Shepherd Husky mixes smell? Many Huskies pass on their low-oil coat to their crossbred offspring. If you do adopt a Shepsky, remember not to bathe your dog too regularly. The lack of oil can make them prone to having dry skin, and excessive washing can exacerbate this problem. Do Shepskies get cold? Siberian Huskies were bred to deal with extreme cold, and German Shepherds also have a thick coat to deal with colder temperatures. This means their offspring are very well insulated against the cold, and you will almost never have to worry about them being uncomfortable in colder temperatures. Overheating, however, can be an issue, so always carry water when you go out. You will probably find that your Shepsky prefers to relax in cool, shady areas. What is an Alusky? This is a very popular designer breed, as they often have distinctive black and white patterning as well as an overall wolf-like appearance. What dog breeds are commonly mixed with Huskies? As well as German Shepherds, you will find a number of other dog breeds that make a good mix with a Husky. The Verdict On Shepskies If you are looking for a fun and energetic dog that will make a great addition to a boisterous and adventurous family, then a German Shepherd Husky mix can be a great choice. Shepskies are very family-friendly pets that are loyal and highly trainable, but they also need lots of love and attention to keep them healthy and happy. They have a distinctive wolf-like appearance, but are far from aggressive and are generally very good with children. However, they are known for their delightful wolf-like howl. Remember that crossbreed dogs are always somewhat unpredictable in their appearance and temperament, so ensure that you meet the dog you plan on adopting first before deciding whether to add them to your family. Shepskies are best for people who have quite a bit of space for their dog to play and usually have someone to keep them company at home. You will enjoy training your Shepsky yourself if you have a bit of experience with dogs, but steer clear if you have allergies, as they are big shedders! Do you have any experience raising a German Shepherd Husky mix? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist.

Dachshund Getty Images Smooth, wirehaired or longhaired, there's a type of dachshund for everybody. They even come in two different sizes: standard and miniature. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below English Setter Getty Images Called the "gentleman of the dog world," the English setter is known for both its style and its strength. Just don't describe their coats as spotted. The speckled pattern is known as "belton. Swiss farmers originally raised them as good-natured helpers, so they're super strong. The pups only develop the spots later in life though; the litters start out completely white. Labs have been the number one dog breed in America for more than 25 years in a row! An abandoned Cairn terrier named Terry went on to become one of the biggest canine movie stars in history. Caroline Picard Contributing Writer Caroline is a writer and editor with almost a decade of experience. From to , she held various editorial positions at Good Housekeeping, including as health editor, covering nutrition, fitness, wellness, and other lifestyle news. An avid traveler, she trots the globe with her husband and their twins. We guarantee it'll cheer you up. Learn about our Editorial Policy. Updated April 28, Copied! Collection of Puppy Wallpapers Puppy wallpapers make cute backgrounds for your computer screen, phone, or tablet. Of course, you could upload your own images to use as wallpaper, or find a photo of a cutie patootie puppy to use. It could even be your way of manifesting the perfect pup into your life! Here you'll find an adorable selection of puppy images to save as wallpapers, as well as links to collections of cute puppy backgrounds to browse. Labrador Retriever Pup This little lab looks all tuckered out, but they'd still make a nice background on your desktop. You can also find images of chocolate lab puppies or black labs to use, if you prefer. Find one that makes you happy every time you look at it, and save it right now. Cute lab puppy backgrounds for your computer. Yorkshire Terrier Puppy This adorable Yorkshire Terrier pup looks like they're ready for the show ring. They would also look great on your computer or phone screen, don't you think? It's hard not to feel warm fuzzies when you see a cute yorkie pup. Yorkie puppy backgrounds for your computer. Helpful Hack Orientation is important! If you're looking for a puppy background for your desktop or laptop screen, make sure the image is horizontal, but if you want a cute pic for your phone background or lock screen, choose one that's vertical. Golden puppies can range in shade from nearly white to a rich auburn color. You can find tons of images of these cuties to consider as your wallpaper. Golden Retriever pup backgrounds for your computer. But you can just as easily find images with flowers or snow for different seasons. Check out these sites to find an image that matches the current weather. Cute German Shepherd puppy backgrounds for your computer. Beagle Puppy Here's a Beagle pup who'll remind you that all work and no play makes for a dull life. Just don't get too distracted by their cuteness, or you won't get anything done! Beagle puppy wallpapers for your computer. Boxer Puppies Boxers are big on personality. This funny Boxer pup will fit in great on your screen. If one isn't enough, you can find images with two, three, four, or even five adorable Boxers pups that'll make you "aww" through your phone. Adorable Boxer puppy wallpapers for your phone or computer. Dachshund Pup Duo This cute little duo of Dachshund pups is bound to draw attention to your desktop. There are endless photos of this cute breed you can download and use. Precious Dachshund puppy wallpapers for your computer. Helpful Hack Do you have a photo of your own cute dog you'd like to make into a wallpaper? You can do it for free in Canva. Just search for "wallpaper" and select one of their desktop or phone templates, then simply upload your image, add graphics or text, and voila! Are you InTheKnow? Sign up for our newsletter featuring all the latest stories and products we love. Invalid email I agree to receive email communications from LoveToKnow. Not a fan of apricot? Look for images of black, white, brown, or sable Poodles instead. And did we mention there's a color variation called the "parti Poodle? Darling Poodle pup wallpapers for your computer. This adorable puppy looks like they're ready for some fun and would be a welcome sight to see every time you look at your phone or laptop. Shih Tzu backgrounds for your computer. You can find hundreds of adorable images on free photo sites, or make your own through Canva or Photoshop. Set it as your background, lock screen, or screensaver so you see it frequently throughout the day. And whenever you need an extra boost of serotonin, just take a glance at your phone. We hope it works as well for you as it does for us!

In , B2TR rescued bulldogs in need. We had adoptions, 64 were foster fails and 57 were previous adopters! We adopt to all U. We are based in NC. Please visit www. We are headquartered in North Carolina, in a pet supply store that is owned with the Rescue. We also have satellite offices in South Carolina, Alabama and we cover Virginia and Maryland as well. We are a c 3 corporation. We are in need of volunteers, donations, supplies and support. We rely solely on donations for the care and treatment of the rescued Bulldogs that are admitted to our organization. We provide our fosters food, treats, supplements, medical care, training and harnesses and leashes. Here is how you can participate: 1. Go to www. Create an account 3. You will receive an approval email from 32 Auctions with a link to acknowledge your account 4. It will take you back to the site 5. You can view some of the great items that will be in auction by selecting view items. During the Auction: When the auction is live you can bid on items through the online auction website. So… it will be harder for ninjas to outbid you without you knowing. You will receive an email with the items you won. You will then pay online via credit card or PayPal for the items you won. Your items will be mailed out to you in the next two weeks. FAQ: Q: Is there a shipping fee? A: Yes, there will be a shipping fee. A: Yes, you will need to create an account with 32auctions to be able to bid. We are excited for the support and partnership. Things to do with your English Bulldog North Carolina is a great place to live with an English bulldog. The state has a diverse landscape, plenty of outdoor activities, and dog-friendly businesses. Hike the Trails Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are many hiking trails in North Carolina that are perfect for English bulldogs. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog, and take breaks often. Visit a Campground Camping is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many campgrounds in North Carolina that allow dogs. Be sure to bring a tent, sleeping bags, food, water, and other supplies. There are many places to fish in North Carolina, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to get a fishing license and follow all the rules and regulations. Go Boating Boating is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many places to boat in North Carolina, both on rivers and lakes. Be sure to bring a life jacket for your dog and follow all the safety rules. There are many places to swim in North Carolina, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to supervise your dog at all times and follow all the safety rules. Visit a Dog Park Dog parks are a great place for English bulldogs to run and play off-leash. There are many dog parks in North Carolina, both in urban and rural areas. Visit Pet-Friendly Businesses North Carolina has a number of pet-friendly businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and stores. These are just a few of the many things you can do with your English bulldog in North Carolina. With its stunning scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, North Carolina is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in North Carolina? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T.

Being a wonderful companion, it always wants to be close to its people, pleasing the owner with its playful antics. These courageous dogs can also be stubborn, often exhibiting independent behavior. Since it has a hunting ancestry, it may chase small household pets, including cats, squirrels, and birds. Always wary of strangers, it will not hesitate to alert you of any suspicious activity, making for an excellent watchdog. Care Exercise Tiring it out with an hour of daily activity will keep your pet dog mellow and happy. Aside from jogging, walking, or running, your Golden Doxie will enjoy a game of retrieving the ball in the yard. Make sure you have your backyard properly fenced and also stop your dog from jumping on or off high places to avoid back injuries. Grooming It requires a fair amount of grooming, including brushing once a month to keep its hairs from tangling, and bathing when its coat becomes dirty. If it has the smooth coat-type, you should wipe your dog using a damp cloth to keep its fur clean. Brush its teeth on a daily basis to prevent bacterial infections. Health Problems Some Golden Weiners may be prone to some health conditions including intervertebral disc disease, epilepsy, progressive retinal atrophy, diabetes, bloating, and allergies. Training It can often be mischievous, and because of this, you need to be firm and consistent in your approach. Owing to its intelligence, the Golden Dox can learn to respond to commands quickly if motivated. Socialization Introduce your dog to a variety of unknown people and pets, and make sure it has positive experiences with them during its puppyhood. Puppies love exploring new things and form bonds until they are three to four months old. Invite your friends or relatives to come to your place frequently and tell them to offer treats. It will help your Golden Dox feel confident in the presence of friendly visitors. Be sure to keep it on the leash when in public. Let your Golden Doxie take part in dog sports like agility, flyball, and treibball since they provide a physical outlet for indulging in its favorite pastime. Feeding Give your Golden Dox one to two cups of quality dry food on a regular basis. You may also keep it on the BARF diet, which includes raw foods like fruits, vegetables, meat, and bones. Home » Breed » Golden Dox what you need to know before getting one Golden Dox what you need to know before getting one This page contains affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post through our independently chosen links, which earn us a commission. The lifespan of the Golden Dox is around 10 to 14 years. In this article, I will be talking more about these adorable puppies and what to consider before taking them home. What is a Golden Dox? Both the Golden Retriever and the Dachshund have been household pet favorites for years. With its parentage, it seems like the Golden Dachshund is made for dog superstardom. Golden Weiner dogs are true people lovers; they love cuddles and just being around their human family. They are good around children, making them ideal house pets. Their friendly nature, however, does not make them ideal guard dogs. Golden Weiners are more likely to welcome strangers than scare them off. They are fine with other dogs, but not with other pets such as rabbits or cats. The Dachshund in them has the tendency to look at smaller animals as prey. Golden Dachshunds are not nuisance barkers and would only bark when they sense that something feels wrong. The Golden Dox loves playtime Golden Weiner dogs are a smart and highly energetic bunch that loves to play outdoors, something that they inherited from their parent breeds. Golden Retriever Dachshund mix need at least 60 minutes of play a day to release all their pent-up energy, or they may turn to chewing and digging. Training the Golden Dox Golden Dachshunds are quick to pick up on commands and learn tricks, but, just like any other breed, it is best to train them young. Starting training as early as 8 weeks old curbs their Dachshund tendency to be stubborn. The eager-to-please Golden Retriever side craves human affirmation so he will seek opportunities to make you happy. But this does not mean that the Golden Dox will obey all the time. Training for the Golden Retriever Dachshund mix has to be both positive and firm. They love positive reinforcement such as praise and treats for a job well done. What do they look like? How Golden Weiner puppies turn out will be largely dependent on which parent breed their genetic makeup is leaning towards. Some of these puppies have the head of a Golden Retriever and the body of a Dachshund, while others take on a different appearance. These hybrids are also described as little Golden Retrievers or bigger Dachshunds. How big do Golden Retriever Dachshund mixes get? As mentioned above the average size of a full-grown Golden Dox is 10 to 23 inches 25 to 58 cm in height and around 30 to 60 pounds 13 to 27 kg. There are also breeders who can give you miniature Golden Dox puppies, which are bred from Golden Retrievers and Mini Dachshunds. However, not much information is given on how tiny Mini Golden Dox puppies can get. The Golden Weiner inherited its muscular build from its Golden Retriever parent and got the long body and short legs of its Dachshund side of the family. You can expect moderate shedding from the Golden Dox all throughout the year. Their double coat can vary from short, medium, or long depending on what they inherit from their parent breeds. The hair can also be smooth or wavy. Grooming the Golden Weiner dog is simple. Daily brushing should keep their coat shiny and tangle- free. Visits to a groomer every other month is also recommended to ensure their coats remain healthy and attractive. Golden Dox ears need to be checked and cleaned once a week to avoid ear infection and his nails should be clipped every two to three weeks. Teeth should be brushed daily or at least three times a week. How can I keep my Golden Dox healthy and happy? As mentioned on the first paragraph the average lifespan of a Golden Dox is 10 to 14 years. Some common health issues are the same as what its parents have. These may be ear infections, intervertebral disc disease, and hip dysplasia. Where can I buy a Golden Dachshund? You can get them from breeders, but, sometimes, you can find a Golden Dox for adoption at rescues and shelters. Breeders who focus on the Golden Retriever-Dachshund mix may not be common, but you may check breeders of the Golden Retriever and the Dachshund. Conclusion Overall, the Golden Dox is ideal for an owner who can take the time to go out and play with it. They are active dogs that want you to be with him in their daily activities for them to be healthy and happy. These crossbreeds can be high-maintenance when it comes to your time and in affirmation. If you have the stamina, the Golden Retriever Dachshund mix is perfect for you. If you want to share your experience with the breed, feel free to submit a comment below. About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. Are the dams and sires of Golden Dox puppies always a Golden sire and Dachshund dam or does it go both ways? If so, is having a Golden dam or a Golden sire better? There are actually lots of different names out there for this mix breed. So much so that it can get a little confusing when searching for a Golden weiner dog or Golden Dox for sale. Either term is fine, although Golden Dox is more common. You are probably more likely to find breeders and keen owners talking about Dox crosses than Weiner Dogs. Just make sure to see the parents when buying a puppy, to make sure you and the breeder really are on the same page. Want to train your dog without spending hundreds of dollars? Click Here to check out the brain training for Dogs course now! Why some people are concerned about this extreme hybrid and question the ethics in breeding it? There are some people that will dislike the idea of this cross because it is so extreme. There are fears over the health of the parents and litter, and the practices involved in creating the pups. Clearly, the most important issue on the minds of owners is the size of the dog. Golden retrievers are medium sized gun dogs with a good build. Dachshunds are tiny little hounds with long bodies and short legs. There are many short Golden Doxie dogs with longer bodies and the ears and color of the Golden. These factors will all depend on the leaning towards a certain parent. Some take after the Golden a lot, while others are much more like the Dachshund. Gender will also play its part here. The opposite would put a female Dachshund at risk because of the size of the puppies. Clearly, this safer method requires artificial insemination. Many breeders will go about this the correct way, and breed for healthier litters with fewer health concerns. Others wont think about the risks and could put the pups and mother at risk. Ideally, these pups wont have as many spinal issues, but there are still joint risks due to the heritage of the Golden Retriever. Other risks include epilepsy , bloating and some eye problems. Some Golden Doxes may live longer with proper care. Others will not live that long due to physical issues. The two dog breeds also love to spend their lives outside of their homes. Families who like to go on trips and spend time outside the house are perfect for the hybrid dog. Spend about thirty to sixty minutes a day to exercise with your dog. Take the Dachshund Golden Retriever on a walk in the morning and the evening. During the day, play fetch with the Golden dox leaning to the Golden Retriever side. If it is leaning to the dachshund side, the fetch game may not work as well. Make sure that your house has proper fences to avoid losing the hybrid dog. It is also ideal to avoid letting the Dachshund Golden Retriever from jumping off of high places to prevent leg and back injuries. Puppies love exploring things in their early days, which makes a trip to the woods an ideal exercise for your baby Golden Dox. Invite your friends to your house to give the dog the chance to form bonds with strangers at a young age. Make your friends offer treats to the Golden Dox to make it feel comfortable with friendly visitors. While in public, make sure that you keep your Golden dox on a leash to avoid losing your adventurous pet. It is also ideal for the hybrid dog to participate in dog sports like flyball, treibball, and agility exercises. Golden Retriever Dachshund Mix Training When training the Golden Retriever and dachshund mix, you need to be consistent with your technique. The Golden Dox are intelligent creatures and will react to orders quickly with proper motivation. Positive reinforcement can work on Golden Retrievers and dachshund, which makes it easier for owners to train a Golden Dox. The training method can also include having fun with your dog by going on quick runs and catches. Use treats, praise, and gifts as your positive reinforcement techniques. Golden retrievers are one of the most natural dog breeds to teach, which is why training will not be an issue if the hybrid puppy is leaning more on the Golden Retriever side. The retrievers dedicate themselves to exercise until they get the command right. Dachshunds are more challenging to train because of their stubborn personalities. They can quickly learn commands but feel less inclined to obey them. They mostly decide on what they want to do rather than listen to order if they are not in the mood. To understand better the Sausage pup personality, skim through Dachshund training and Dachshund potty training articles, as well as our Dachshund breed guide. If the pup is leaning to the Golden Retriever side, training will be a breeze. It is advisable for the whole family to use similar command gestures to avoid confusing the dachshund mixed with the Golden Retriever. It is also recommendable to start building a connection with the Golden Dox and let it calm itself before undergoing training. The Golden Dox love to chase and hunt smaller animals, which makes it vital to teach it how to obey commands. If you own a Golden Dox puppy, go through the best ways to train your puppy article, you will find lots of useful info there. Make sure to avoid the most common mistakes in dog training. It is also important to socialize the Golden Dox with other animals in its first months. The dogs leaning to the Dachshund side will chase after other pets, sometimes animals bigger than it, because of lack of training. Its energy levels are suitable for people who love to go outside and participate in activities. Dachshund Golden Retriever is also loyal when owners take the time and patience to raise them properly. The alert level of the Golden Dox is exceptionally high, making them great guards for a safe house. A Golden Dox is a welcome addition to a loving family. When owners dedicate their time to the dog, it will repay them with loyalty and affection. The price of a Golden Dox may be expensive, but it will be worth it when it starts to form bonds with each of the family members. If you are interested in more Dachshund mixes , take a look at our list of these mix cuties.

They have an increased fondness for people but do not show it openly by jumping at or licking them when they arrive. In fact, these friendly dogs can even take time in accepting new people. Besides being affectionate and caring, they are also smart and intelligent. These dogs are good with kids and the pets in its family. Daneoodles are always eager to please and would cherish the moments with its family members only in return for a little praise and some attention. The Great Danoodles are responsible pets, and stay loyal throughout their lives. They would guard the house, and bark if they spot any unfamiliar face around. This trait makes them excellent watchdogs. Though their barks are loud, they are not incessant barkers. Take it out for a couple of daily jogs or walks of course on a leash this time , mainly, if you find your dog has started gaining some weight. Grooming This breed is a low shedder, and only some basic grooming is enough for them. Brush them two to three times every week, and bathe them once in a while if you think it needs some cleaning. But use a dog shampoo only. However, using various treats accompanied by praises would make your task simpler. Train it to collect garbage and put it in the right place. Later, throw the items randomly, and command your dog to fetch one of them. If your dog fails to understand, pick it up yourself and call your dog there. Offer the trash to it until it grasps it in its mouth. In the same way, go to the garbage bin, and call your dog there, and make it un-grasp it in the bin. Give it a treat immediately, and praise considerably. Repeat the process for a few times, and continue it regularly. Your dog will soon learn to collect trash and keep your house clean. Because your dog loves you a lot and enjoys your company, it is quite likely that separation anxiety might quickly inhibit it. So, before you leave for work, or after return home, do not make a big deal. Stay calm and indifferent, as if, living without you every day for a few hours is a part of its routine. Do not talk, do not touch, nor make any eye contact from minutes before you leave, and after you come back. Lifespan Sociability In general, Great Danoodles are one of the more expensive crossbreed puppies. The Great Danoodle is a fairly rare crossbreed and the demand for them is high. These dogs are intelligent and obedient. They would make a wonderful family dog and do equally well as a guard dog. They were first bred in the s. There is evidence that the Great Danoodle was first bred somewhere in the early s. This makes it one of the most stable crossbreeds available, particularly if you get one from a reputable and experienced breeder. They have ancient origins. The Standard Poodle breed was first recognized more than years ago, while the Great Dane has origins that stretch as far back as 3, B. While a Poodle has a reputation as a spoilt and pampered lap dog, they were commonly bred in the past as hard-working sport dogs. Great Danes were often bred for the same purpose, so the combination of these breeds makes for a highly intelligent, hard-working animal, with a long and revered history. They have infinite coat variations. The wavy coat of the Great Danoodle can come in many different lengths, and the colors are almost infinite, coming in solid or multicolored variations of black, white, blue, red, grey, etc. The combination of the curly, dense fur of Poodles with the wiry, sleek coat of Great Danes makes for a wide variety of coat differences. They are amazingly loyal and easily trainable and love to be around people. They have a deep, unconditional love and trust for their human owners, and while both males and females are highly sociable, the females tend to latch onto one owner. They will often suffer from separation anxiety if left alone, as they are social dogs who love regular interaction. They love to be in packs and are playful and full of energy with other dogs. Provided that they grow up with other dogs and cats around and are socialized from an early age, they are unlikely to hunt or display any aggression toward other animals. They will need a large amount of food to maintain a healthy and balanced diet, but they are prone to overeating and will need to be carefully monitored to prevent getting overweight. Depending on the type of food they are getting, a good gauge of daily requirements is at least 4 large cups of high-quality dry dog pellets per day. Like all dogs, Great Danoodles need constant access to fresh, clean water. An easy way to get adequate hydration for your dog is to add high-quality wet food into their diet. Great Danoodles also need a source of essential fatty acids , which are good for their coats, internal organs, and nervous system. They will need a large amount of protein, which will supply them with energy and assist with skin, nail, bone, and muscle structure. That said, carbohydrates like wheat and corn should be avoided. Most dogs need around calories per pound per day to maintain a healthy weight. This can be altered depending on how active the breed is. For a Great Danoodle, their large size and high energy levels mean they may need a fair bit more. Around minutes of brisk walking three times a day is optimal, but once a day is suitable on occasion. Their large size is better suited to homes with large yards for them to run around in, but even this is not an adequate replacement for regular exercise. Their highly trainable nature makes them easily take to a leash, and with the right kind of training, Great Danoodles will love to run alongside you on a leash. Indeed, their large, strong bodies and abundant energy levels make training essential, as they can easily sweep you off your feet if they get too excited. General play cannot be counted as exercise unless they are playing fetch or some other form of high-intensity play. Long walks or runs are the best forms of exercise for a Great Danoodle to burn off any excess energy. That said, they will love the mental stimulation provided by ball games. The use of treats also helps, and this breed can be taught a variety of tricks when trained with repetition and consistency. Female Great Danoodles tend to mature earlier and are thus are ready to train quicker than males. That said, they can become moody and obstinate at times, whereas males generally have a more consistent temperament for training. Both males and females love to impress their owners by responding to commands and calls. In general, it is on the shorter side and is thick and wavy. However, it can be more like a Great Dane coat, in which case, it will be short and wiry. In either case, this breed is known to not shed much, so they do not need frequent grooming. The occasional brush and regular bath are all a Great Danoodle needs for a healthy coat. That said, regular exercise and a healthy and complete diet will go a long way in mitigating many common ailments associated with both breeds. Big dogs tend to have more issues with joints and muscles in general, and regular checkups at the vet are a good idea to keep on top of any issues that may arise, especially with older dogs. Great Danes have huge frames, and it is not surprising that they experience joint and bone diseases like hip dysplasia, and this can be passed down to Great Danoodles. They also commonly suffer from cardiomyopathy, which is a disease that leads to the enlargement of the heart. Unless you intend to breed, neutering a male dog has many associated health benefits , including preventing testicular cancer, reducing aggression, and stopping them from wandering. Similarly, spaying a female helps prevent uterine infections and breast cancer, and doing so before her first heat will mitigate these complications even more. Minor Conditions. However, they do not stay small for long. These dogs respond well to training and display tempered obedience most of the time. They tend to love anyone they meet unconditionally, unless they perceive the person whom they are interacting with to be a threat. Being large and powerful, a Great Danoodle spends most of their time in active mode. However, this crossbreed is more likely to be caught snuggling on the couch or trying to fit into the lap of a family member than running around and exploring. Are These Dogs Good for Families? These dogs get along well with children, both during play and snuggle time. They are not aggressive, yet they can hold their own when around rambunctious kids who are roughhousing in the backyard. They are protective over younger kids and will watch over them in social settings. Whether it is another dog, a cat, or even a pet bird, Great Danoodles can get along with them in the right setting. They do not have high prey drives and would rather sniff and snuggle with a cat than chase one down. If introduced other types of animals while still young, this crossbreed can get along with them. On the other hand, like most dogs, a Great Danoodle that is not well socialized may not get along well with any other animals. There are many different things to consider when deciding whether your household can handle caring for one of these dogs. You should know what this crossbreed must eat, how much exercise they need, the type of training they are good at, how to groom them, and more. Look for a food product that includes animal protein from chicken, beef, or fish, as the first and main ingredient. The food should be free of artificial flavors and colors because these offer no nutritional value and could harm health as time goes on. Your Great Danoodle should eat between 3 and 4 cups of dry food, or the equivalent of wet food, each day. These dogs can enjoy fresh fruits and veggies as snacks and for extra nutrition. Fresh, clean water should always be available, especially when the weather is hot. In addition, free time outside at the dog park or playing fetch is a good idea. About an hour of physical activity outside the house should be the goal every day. When the weather is bad, exercise can be accomplished indoors through games such as hide-and-seek. Interactive toys and puzzles will keep this mixed breed busy both mentally and physically when other forms of exercise are unavailable and when the family is gone from the home. These dogs are smart and eager to please and can learn quickly. Obedience training should begin while this dog is still a young puppy, at about 12 weeks of age, and it should continue throughout their lifetime. Some Great Danoodles can be a bit stubborn and may require a bit of extra patience. But with practice, even the most stubborn dog can learn to come, sit, stay, and heel at least. Tricks are always a welcome challenge for most Great Danoodles and can be practiced both inside and outdoors. Not only can these dogs master obedience training, but they can also be trained to show, guard the house, and compete in agility contests. These dogs do not require trimming and they rarely develop tangles. They may need to be bathed occasionally if they spend time outdoors. They should get enough exercise outside that their nails will stay naturally trimmed. Clean their ears with a cotton ball a couple of times a month. Owners should understand these things so they know what signs and symptoms to look for that could signal a problem developing. Minor Conditions. It is a combination of the Great Dane and the Poodle. The resulting dog is usually large and athletic, with a thick coat that can come in a variety of colors. While the exact origins of the Great Danoodle are unknown, it is thought that this hybrid first appeared in the United States in the s. Since then, they have become increasingly popular as both companion animals and working dogs. They can also be the perfect pet because they are intelligent and friendly. They are also used as service dogs, therapy dogs, and even as hunting companions. As a result, they can inherit the best of both breeds — the athletic build and gentle nature of the Great Dane, combined with the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle. This mixed breed typically stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. They have a straight or slightly wavy or curly coat that can be either short or long and come in a wide range of colors, including black, blue, silver, cream, brown, apricot, and red. Great Danoodle — Temperament Like both of its parent breeds, the Great Danoodle is an intelligent and active dog that loves to play and has a strong bond with its family. However, the Great Danoodle inherits some of the best traits of both breeds, making it an even more versatile and loving companion. For example, the Great Dane aspect of the Great Danoodle gives it a calm and gentle demeanor, while the Poodle side provides the energy and playful nature that makes this breed so special. As a result, the Great Danoodle is an ideal pet for families with children or active adults who are looking for a fun-loving and loyal companion. Great Danoodle — Training Needs The Great Dane Poodle mix, also known as the Great Danoodle, is a large and friendly dog that makes a great companion for active families. The Dane part of the mix is likely to inherit some of the independent streak common to most large breeds, so early socialization and obedience training are essential. The Poodle component means the dog will probably be highly intelligent and quick to learn new tricks; however, they may also require more patience and consistent training than some other breeds. Overall, the Great Danoodle is a smart and affectionate dog that will thrive in a home where they are given plenty of exercise, love, and attention. When raised in a loving home with plenty of attention and exercise, the Great Danoodle can be a gentle giant. This breed is intelligent and can be eager to please, making them easy to train. For this reason, it is important to make sure that your Great Danoodle receives plenty of socialization from an early age. With the right training and socialization, the Great Danoodle can be a devoted and loving companion. This breed loves to play and will enjoy a good game of fetch or tug-of-war. They also need plenty of space to run and should be taken on long walks or runs daily. In addition, the Great Danoodle benefits from having a yard to play in. Without enough exercise, this breed can become bored and destructive. As a result, it is important to make sure that your Great Danoodle gets plenty of exercise every day. Great Danoodle — Mental Stimulation The Great Dane Poodle mix, also known as the Great Danoodle, is a large and intelligent breed of dog that needs plenty of mental stimulation. This breed loves to learn new tricks and will excel in obedience training. They are also quick to learn new commands and respond well to positive reinforcement. In addition, the Great Danoodle benefits from having a job to do. This breed is happiest when they are given a task to perform, such as fetching the newspaper or guarding the home. Without enough mental stimulation, this breed can become bored and destructive. They are also prone to separation anxiety if left alone for too long, so they are not the best choice for families with busy schedules. As a result, it is important to make sure that your Great Danoodle has plenty of toys and games to keep them occupied. This breed has a thick coat of hair that requires daily brushing to prevent matting and tangles. They also shed heavily and will require weekly vacuuming to remove loose hair from the home. In addition, the Great Danoodle needs to be bathed regularly to keep its coat clean and healthy. Hip and elbow dysplasia are both hereditary conditions that can cause joint pain and mobility problems. Bloat is a condition that can cause the stomach to twist and fill with gas, leading to pain and potentially death. While these conditions are serious, they can be controlled with proper medical care. Great Danoodle — What should they Eat? This mixed breed is a rather large dog that requires high-quality dog food. They do best on a diet of dry kibble or raw meat. They also require plenty of exercise and should be given two to three meals per day. In addition, the Great Danoodle benefits from having a diet that is high in protein and low in fat. This breed is also prone to bloat, so it is important to avoid giving them large meals or treats. Instead, give them small meals throughout the day to prevent this condition. Great Danoodle — Are they Dog Friendly? The Great Dane Poodle mix is very friendly. This breed loves to play and will get along well with other dogs. They are also social creatures and enjoy being around people. This breed is gentle and loving, but they can also be protective of their family. As a result, the Great Danoodle makes an excellent companion for any family. Great Danoodle — Are they Child Friendly? But are they good with kids? In fact, many Great Danoodles are patient and tolerant enough to be wonderful therapy dogs. That being said, every dog is an individual. With their calm and gentle dispositions, Great Danoodles are typically great with kids of all ages. This should occur until everyone is comfortable with each other. Great Danoodle — Do they Drool? The Great Dane Poodle mix, also known as the Great Danoodle, is a large breed of dog that is known for drooling. This breed has a very thick coat of hair that traps saliva and moisture, which can cause them to drool. In addition, the Great Danoodle has a large mouth and tongue, which can also contribute to their drooling. While this breed is known for drooling, it is important to keep their coat clean and dry to prevent infection. Great Danoodle — Barking Levels Any dog owner knows that barking is a normal part of canine communication. However, some breeds tend to bark more than others. This can be problematic for apartment dwellers or those who live in close proximity to their neighbors. Luckily, there are a number of mixed breeds that are known for being relatively quiet. One of them is the Great Danoodle! While Great Danes are known for being quite vocal, Standard Poodles are actually one of the quieter breeds. As a result, Great Danoodles tend to inherit the best of both worlds. They inherit the size and sweetness of the Great Dane with the quiet nature of the Standard Poodle. While the dog does enjoy spending time outdoors, it is not necessarily dependent on warm weather for exercise. The Great Danoodle does quite well in colder climates, thanks to the thick coat of fur that covers its body. The coat helps to insulate the dog against the cold and can even protect against snow and ice buildup. As such, the Great Danoodle makes an ideal companion for those who live in cooler climates or who enjoy spending time outdoors in all seasons. This is on par with other large breeds of dogs, such as the Labrador Retriever and the Golden Retriever. These include diet, exercise, and genetics. Therefore, it is important to consult with a veterinarian as a pet owner. This will ensure that your Great Danoodle is receiving the best possible care. With proper care and nutrition, this mixed breed can enjoy a long and happy life. If you are interested in registering your Great Danoodle with the AKC, you may do so as a mixed breed. While the Great Danoodle is not currently recognized as a separate breed, this may change in the future as the popularity of the breed increases. This breed is not currently recognized by the AKC, which means that there are no set standards for pricing. When searching for a Great Danoodle puppy, be sure to do your research to find a reputable breeder who can provide you with a healthy and happy pup. Final Thoughts Great Danes are some of the most gentle and loving dogs you could ever hope to meet. Poodles, on the other hand, are known for being highly intelligent, trainable, and eternally cheerful. Great Danoodles combine the best features of both breeds.

But those first weeks of puppy development are very similar whatever the breed, and these landmarks are good general rules for any dog. Puppy development week by week, changes quickly. Newborn Puppies Newborn puppies are born at the end of nine weeks of pregnancy, with their eyes and ears tightly closed. They already have a fur coat but they cannot yet control their own body temperature. They are dependent on their mother or another heat source to keep them warm. Newborn puppies may cry if cold. But they do not have the strength to cry for long. Newborn Labrador puppies snuggle together to keep warm when their mother is away How Helpless are Newborn Pups? Although they rely on mom for a lot at this stage, newborn puppies are not completely helpless. They can use their front feet to drag themselves towards a heat source or their milk supply. This means their mom, not milk alternatives like cow or goat milk. Newborn pups have no teeth yet. But they can move their heads about to search for a nipple, and they can latch on and suck strongly. Their mother leaves them only to eat, drink and for bathroom purposes. While she is away, the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat, as you can see in the photo above. They may also crawl under a heat lamp source to keep warm. In every other respect newborn puppies are completely dependent on the care of their mother. Newborn pups have little control over the rear end of their bodies. The mother dog washes them and licks their bottoms to encourage elimination, licking up and swallowing anything they produce to keep her babies and their nest scrupulously clean. In fact, he may even double his birth weight! One week later and the puppies have doubled their birth weight. Changes are taking place under his eyelids to prepare them for opening. And usually begins during the second week of life. Ears open at this point too, so your puppy will begin to hear. The Labrador puppies in this picture are two weeks olds. Two weeks old and the puppies eyes are now open! You can see that their eyes are now open and the puppies are beginning to look a little more dog-like. The breeder will be handling the puppies more now. And most puppies are wormed for the first time at two weeks old. Most 3 week old puppies can stand and sit, and are beginning to totter about. They are also starting to develop their individuality. No longer are they just a row of identical little fat furry sausages! This little three week old puppy :- Can easily be distinguished from his brother: Teething and Further Development At 3 weeks old, this is also the point at which puppies start teething — cutting their first deciduous baby teeth. Obviously the teeth are appearing for a reason! Some breeders will start to offer the first tastes of solid food at this point. Especially if the litter is a large one and putting a strain on the mother dog. It is lovely to watch a litter of 3 week old puppies beginning to interact with their brothers and sisters. They are running, playing enthusiastically, and have started to wag their little tails. The puppies will start to show bowel control as they move away from the other puppies to defecate. And solid food is becoming a major part of their diet. These little pups are tucking into some puppy food. Four week old puppies having their dinner in the fresh air If the weather is warm enough, puppies will be spending some time outdoors now. Mealtimes are a messy process, so feeding puppies out in the yard can be a good idea. Breeder Involvement Some mother dogs will lose interest in cleaning up after their pups at this point or soon afterwards. And many puppies will be wormed again this week. Vocalizations are becoming stronger at this puppy development stage. The litter will greet their mother noisily when she returns to them, and try hard to follow her out of the whelping box whenever she leaves. The puppies themselves are now eating solid food several times a day and gradually being weaned of their dependency on her milk. Puppies will still suckle ravenously when their mother returns and she will now often feed them standing up and only for a short time. She will also be teaching the puppies not to bite too hard. So, they should be increasingly spending time with humans and learning to be familiar with the sounds and sights of a human family environment. Puppies being raised in kennels must be brought into a home environment regularly from now on to ensure they develop into confident, friendly dogs. Six weeks old and full of mischief Puppies Still Have a Lot to Learn at 6 Weeks In some countries, puppies are taken to their new homes at this age. But this is not a good idea, and can result in a puppy that has poor bite inhibition and is challenging to manage. The puppies are learning not to bite too hard from the reactions of their mother and siblings. Growth is not quite so fast now. But the puppies will still grow strongly for the next few months. Many puppies will be wormed again this week. All that remains is for plenty of great socialization experiences to be packed into this week, with final checks on health. Many breeders will arrange for each seven week old puppy to have a vet check this week. And though some vets advise against it, some puppies are also given their first vaccinations before they leave for their new homes. Some breeders will now have the puppies trained to pee and poop on puppy pads or newspaper. And some will have been whistling to the puppies at meal times to get them used to coming to a human signal. Potty training is now underway and puppy socialization plans are being made. At this point, many of you will be thinking about training your puppy too. The next four weeks are vital in puppy development stages. Your main job is socializing your puppy. This means taking him to lots of new places and exposing him to lots of new experiences. So, life will be starting to get back to normal. Most puppies in the U. In the U. So, not all puppies will get their vaccinations at the exact same age. Socializing your puppy is still the most important job for you at this age. But, you cannot put your puppy on the ground outside until they have received their final vaccination. So, make sure you know exactly when their final jab is. And carry on introducing them to as many new people, things, and experiences as possible throughout this puppy development stage. Some people can suffer from the puppy blues at this stage too, as your life has completely changed! But, that does not mean socialization can stop. Puppies who are isolated at this point will soon lose that friendly fearlessness. You have an important job now, building on what has been achieved so far, and introducing your puppy to the world at ground level. This part of his education can begin once his vaccination cover is complete. He should be fully immunised at around this point. But check with your vet for confirmation of the actual date. Three months also marks the point at which many puppies will drop down from four daily meals, to three. This can cause problems for some puppies because the portions are larger If your puppy gets an upset tummy when you make this change, just go back up to four meals again for a few days, and give smaller portions for a few days when you try again. But, many will need another month before they can cope without frequent bathroom breaks and the occasional accident. Your puppy will begin to lose his baby teeth. This can also be a time at which biting can be most challenging. And try not to worry, this stage will soon be over! A few will need another month or two to complete the process. Remember, no two puppies are the same. That puppy fluffiness will have gone. For many puppies, five months is an awkward, gangly time. A five month old puppy may have shed the last of his soft puppy lines and be looking quite skinny. By the end of this month most puppies will have finished teething but an urge to chew may continue for another few months in some breeds, Labradors included. Some female dogs will have their first season during this month. But, for many, it will be another three or four months before this happens. This is a major milestone for your puppy. He is now looking very much like an adult Labrador. Still a Puppy Because he looks quite grown up, people expect a lot of their 6 month old puppy. But inside, he is still very much a puppy. The beginnings of adolescence and with it an increasing independence of spirit can bring its challenges, but also a whole lot of fun. Abstract Background Weight at birth is an important predictor of neonatal mortality and morbidity in dogs. In addition, the birthweight of the puppies in a litter influences the decision to perform a cesarean section. The goal of the present study was to estimate heritabilities for the puppy birth weight in Labrador retrievers. Results Of the Labrador retriever litters whelped at the Guiding Eye for the Blind between September and February , were included in the analyses after data editing. Puppy weight at birth was the target trait, measured on a continuous scale in pounds, and converted to grams. Linear mixed models were used to identify factors influencing puppy weight at birth. The analyses showed that the sex of the puppy, litter size, length of gestation, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficient of the puppies and dams contributed to the variance of the puppy birth weight. Dam and litter effects were included as random effects. A multiple trait derivative free restricted maximum likelihood approach was used to estimate variance components and genetic parameters with two animal models, one without covariates Model 1 and one with covariates Model 2. Sex of the puppy and litter size had moderate effects, whereas gestation length, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficients of the dam and the puppies had minor effects. Estimates for Model 1 and Model 2 were 0. Conclusions In order to estimate reliable breeding values for puppy weight at birth, sex of puppy, litter size, length of gestation and the adult weight of the dam should be included. Estimates could benefit from weighing the dams prior to each mating. Background The size or weight of puppies at birth is an important parameter, which influences neonatal mortality and morbidity and is a predictor of puppy survival [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]. After a physiological weight loss within the first three days post-partum the growth curve reverses and birth weight is doubled after two weeks [ 4 ]. Breeders should weigh the puppies daily for at least the first three weeks [ 5 ] and provide each puppy with an individual feeder bowl. In this way, problem puppies are recognized early and the breeder may seek advice from a veterinarian. A recent publication proposes health monitoring for newborn puppies by assessing blood and other parameters to reduce neonatal losses [ 6 ]. Factors with an influence on the birthweight have been reviewed for domestic animals [ 7 ]. Among them are year and season of birth, sex, age and diet of the dam and fetal environment. Possible influences on gestation length in dogs including breed, litter size, parental age and size or parity have been investigated in different breeds [ 2 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 ], but were not conclusive. A recent genome-wide association study revealed six canine SNPs associated with gestation length [ 14 ], which may lead to the identification of genetic variants influencing this trait. Birth weight is not only determined by the genetic makeup of the offspring and its environment, but also by the maternal genetic composition and environment provided by the dam [ 15 ]. Estimates for genetic parameters for the birth weight in dogs are scarce. Nielen and coworkers [ 16 ] estimated the direct heritability for birth weight in Boxers to be 0. Helmink and coworkers estimated direct heritabilities for German shepherds GS and Labrador retrievers LR to be in the range of 0. In the same study the maternal additive genetic heritabilities were estimated to be in the range of 0. Estimation of maternal effects may improve breeding value estimation. Guiding Eyes for the Blind is a non-for profit organization that breeds and trains mostly LR and a few GS to provide guide dogs to people who are blind or have visual impairment. The breeding strategy and detailed procedures of Guiding Eyes for the Blind have been described [ 18 ]. The aim of the present study was to identify factors that influence puppy weight at birth which can provide insights for improvement in the Guiding Eyes for the Blind breeding program. Results To reliably estimate parameters levels of covariates with less than 30 litters were not included in the analyses. As a result of this restriction, 91 litters with a litter size smaller than four puppies or larger than eleven puppies, 15 litters with a gestation length shorter than 56 days or longer than 63 days and 19 litters with parities larger than six were dropped, leaving litters with puppies in the study. The average puppy weight was g, and males were heavier g than females g. The fixed effects of season of birth of the litter, inbreeding coefficient of the sire, as well as adult weight of the sire did not have a significant effect on PWB in LR. Table 1 Effects influencing the individual birth weight of puppies. Comparison of the variance components of a model without covariates Model 1 and a model with covariates 2. The direct-maternal covariance was held at zero Full size table Sex of the puppy and litter size had moderate effects, whereas gestation length, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficients of the dam and the puppies had minor effects Table 1. Estimates of variance components Table 1 and genetic parameters Table 2 for PWB are shown for models 1 and 2. To make the individual effects of the covariates model 2 more tangible, detailed information about their magnitude are given in Additional file 1. Table 2 Proportions of variance components influencing the individual birth weight of puppies. Comparison of the variance components of a model without covariates 1 and a model with covariates 2. The aim was to measure the genetic correlation between the two traits Additional file 2. The genetic correlations of the direct effects as well as the one of the maternal effects reached almost unity. These results indicate that the architecture of the direct as well as the maternal additive genetic effects of PWB should be very similar in both sexes. These findings allowed for jointly analyzing the PWB of both sexes and to run a univariate mixed animal model with sex as covariate. Discussion Birth weight is a complex trait and influenced by many factors. PWB and post-natal weight gain are important parameters to recognize problem neonates and puppies deviating from normal development, respectively. Variation in size is desirable for Guiding Eyes for the Blind client placements. Dogs provided to people who are blind or visually impaired and also have difficulties with balance require a larger dog to aid in stability. In contrast, many guide dog users prefer a smaller more compact dog to easily fit in smaller spaces available when using commercial means of transportation. However, too heavy or too large guide dogs may be a hazard for the user [ 17 ]. Avoiding the birth of puppies with extreme birth weights is desirable in dog breeding and enhances welfare of the animals in general. In dogs, season of birth was associated with risk for cardiovascular disease risk [ 21 ] and fertility in bitches kept in tropic countries [ 22 ], however, the authors are not aware of any work reporting a seasonal effect on PBW. This is in contrast to findings in humans where the season of birth was strongly associated with birthweight and adult weight, as well as health outcomes in later life [ 23 ]. Seasonal effects on birth weight were found in horse or sheep [ 24 , 25 ]. Sex of the individual affected birth weight in LR. On average, female puppies were 24 g lighter than male puppies. This effect of the sex of an individual confirms the results of earlier studies in the dog [ 3 , 16 , 26 ] and may reflect physiological differences between the sexes. In our data a genetical sex dimorphism could not be detected. As in full sib families dominance effects could affect the estimation of additive genetic effects [ 27 , 28 ] we also investigated possible dominance effects in our data using WOMBAT together with the R-package NADIV [ 27 ]. With the same approach we also assessed possible sex chromosomal influences usually not considered in variance component analyses. Our data revealed neither substantial dominance effects nor sex-linked effects Additional file 3. The antagonistic relation between litter size and PWB is well known for domestic animals [ 7 ]. In LR, an increase of the litter size by one puppy resulted in a moderate decrease of PBW of 11 g in average confirming results of earlier studies in the dog [ 3 , 16 , 29 , 30 ]. However, the effect was small with an increase of about 6 g for an additional day in the length of gestation. Whereas the adult weight of the sire did not influence PWB in LR, offspring of heavier dams showed a slightly higher PWB, on average by 5 g per kg adult weight, which confirms a previous report [ 3 ]. In a study of Great Danes with a rather restricted data set, the maternal and paternal adult weight had a positive effect on the PBW. Furthermore, higher adult weight of the sire increased neonatal weight gain in this breed [ 29 ]. In LR, up to about parity two to three the PWB in LR increased about 4 g in a linear fashion whereas from about parity two to three to parity six the PWB decreased about 4 g in a non-linear fashion. A similar observation was made in humans [ 31 ]. Although the PWB was fluctuating over the years there was a very small increase of 2 g per year from to .It is well known, that the year of birth may lead to variation of the birth weight by differences in the climate, management and selection of breeding animals in domestic species [ 7 ]. The reason for this very small increase of PWB in LR remains unclear but may be related to the selection of breeding animals. Inbreeding may affect many traits including birth weight [ 32 ] and litter size [ 33 ] in domestic animal species. In the present study, PBW was only marginally influenced by the inbreeding coefficient. Inbreeding of the puppies and the dam had very small but opposite effects. The residual variances are not different but the environmental variance of the litter in model 2 is less than half of that in model 1 and the direct genetic variance in model 2 is close to half of that in model 1. The differences of the maternal genetic variance and the environmental variance of the dam are much less pronounced between the two models. These observations are reflected in the estimates of heritabilities and proportions Table 2. The maternal heritability 0. The residual is larger in model 2 due to the smaller total variance. In Boxers, estimates for heritability of birthweight corrected for litter effects and sex were much higher 0. This discrepancy may be explained by the fact that for our study maternal effects were included in the models. Helmink and coworkers estimated heritabilities for birthweight in German shepherd dogs and LR [ 17 ] by using the following bivariate models: birth weight — 42 days weight and birth weight - mature weight accounting for the litter. For birthweight in LR they found similar direct genetic heritabilities 0. Our results suggest that the inclusion of covariates may lead to better estimates although standard errors of heritabilities and proportions are only marginally smaller in model 2 than in model 1. However, the knowledge benefits anyone especially the working dog community who wants to investigate birth weight in a specific population, canine or not, or improve the situation with respect to birth weight in specific populations. Results suggest that the inclusion of covariates in the model improves the estimates of variance components. The magnitude of the heritabilities indicates that estimation of breeding values could improve breeding program with respect to PWB. Whether our findings help to improve the situation with respect to the stabilization of PWB in guide dogs depends heavily on how they can be implemented in a breeding strategy that is focused on the guiding abilities of the dogs. To evaluate the impact of our results on the general LR population, reliable data on PWB need to be collected. Most of the covariates included in model 2 could also be recorded in the field. The target trait, individual puppy weight at birth PWB was measured in pounds and converted to grams. The final data set comprised puppies in litters by dams and sires, born from September to February Additional file 4. Potential predictors were chosen based on literature [ 4 , 11 , 26 , 29 , 36 , 37 ]. Breed, a well-known factor influencing PBW [ 6 ] was not relevant for the present study because all animals were LR. The diet of the dam during pregnancy can influence the birth weight of puppies [ 26 ], but was not included in the analyses, because keepers of pregnant dams adhere to the feeding regime recommended by the Guiding Eyes for the Blind. Descriptive statistics for PWB and variables in the analyses are given in Additional file 5. Prior to the estimation of variance components, the significance of factors was evaluated and correlations between explanatory variables estimated Additional file 6. Litter size ranged from 4 to .Litters with less than four puppies and litters with twelve or more puppies were excluded from the analyses. Parity ranging from 1 to 6 and parity squared, as well as length of gestation were included. Litters with gestation lengths shorter than 56 days or longer than 63 days were excluded. Litters after cesarean sections were included in the analyses, because the gestation time was known. Year of birth was a possible predictor and encompassed the years to .Further possible predictors were the inbreeding coefficients of the puppies and their parents, as well as the sex of the puppies. Finally, adult weight of the dam was measured in pounds then converted to kg. Model 1 contained no covariates, because covariates are not always easily recorded in the field, and Model 2 included the covariates identified to influence PWB Additional file 7. The covariance between direct and maternal genetic effects fluctuated around zero and was never different from zero. Therefore, it was fixed at zero for both models. For both models the following variance components were estimated: direct genetic variance, maternal genetic variance, maternal environmental variance, environmental variance by the litter and residual variance. Shop All Cat Food Few things are more delightful than a litter of newborn puppies, but the prospect of caring for all of these brand new little lives can be daunting. But don't worry. Check out this guide to newborn puppy care to tell you what need to know to raise a healthy, happy litter. A Clean Environment Newborn puppies will spend their first few weeks in the box or pen in which they were born, so it's important to choose wisely when preparing for their arrival. The space should offer enough room for the mother to lie down and stretch out comfortably without crushing the puppies, and she should be able to come and go freely while keeping the puppies contained. It should also be easy to access so that you can change out the bedding each day. In these early days, Mom will clean up her pups' waste, but if it's a large litter she may need help keeping up. Around the end of the second week or the beginning of the third week, the puppies will open their eyes and become more active. Once they start to toddle about, you can move them to a larger pen with room to play, and bathroom cleanup will require more of your attention. Although the puppies will snuggle up with their mom and each other for warmth, it's best to use a heat lamp during their first month of life. The lamp should be placed high enough above the box to prevent any risk of burning the mother or her pups, and there should also be a cooler corner that the pups can crawl to if they get too warm. For the first five days, the temperature inside the pen should be kept at about 85 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. From days five through ten, gradually dial back the heat to 80 degrees, and then continue to reduce the heat little by little until it reaches 75 degrees by the end of their fourth week, suggests PetPlace. Nursing and Nutrition During their first few weeks, puppies rely exclusively on their mother for their nutritional needs. Although she may be less active during this time, nursing uses up a lot of the mother's energy and her daily caloric requirements will be higher than normal, says the AKC. To ensure both mother and puppies receive adequate nutrition throughout the nursing stage, the mother should be fed several servings of a quality puppy food throughout the day. Your veterinarian can recommend the type and amount of food to feed your nursing mother. It's important to keep an eye on the puppies' weight during this time. If you notice any of the puppies being underfed, you may need to keep an eye on them when it's time to nurse and make sure the smaller puppies latch onto the fullest nipples for feeding, says The Nest. Puppies who cry or whimper frequently may also be hungry and need more attention during feeding. If the smaller puppies still don't show signs of healthy growth or weight gain, talk to your vet. It might be necessary to take over and bottle-feed them. It's also important to watch the mother for signs of mastitis, says Wag! Signs of mastitis include red and swollen nipples and reluctance to nurse. The mother may even snap at the puppies when they try to eat. If you notice these signs, contact your vet right away. By the fourth or fifth week, the puppies will start getting their teeth and the weaning process will begin as the mother's milk production slows. Once you notice the puppies starting to sample Mom's food, it's time to provide them with their own dish of puppy food. Health Young puppies are susceptible to disease and infection, so you'll need to keep a close eye on them. Newborn puppy care should include regular inspections to watch for signs of infection or poor health. Report anything unusual such as vomiting, diarrhea or a puppy who won't stand or eat to your vet. Little puppies are also especially vulnerable to fleas and other parasites, says The Spruce Pets , so talk to your vet about appropriate parasite control. Although antibodies they receive from nursing will help protect them from illness in the early weeks, these antibodies wear off around six to eight weeks, which is when they will need to receive their first round of vaccinations. Make sure you and all family members thoroughly wash your hands before interacting with these puppies to help reduce the risk of getting them sick from any bacteria that might be lying in wait on your hands. Socialization By the fourth week the puppies are ready to begin socializing with humans and other dogs. Weeks four through twelve are a critical window during which puppies need to learn about the world they'll inhabit so they'll become well-adjusted, happy dogs, says The Spruce Pets. Poorly socialized puppies tend to grow into anxious dogs who may have behavioral problems, so whether you plan to keep the puppies or send them to good homes, it's important to cuddle and play with them, allow them to explore and play and expose them to as many new experiences as possible. Newborn puppy care entails a lot of work, but these first several weeks go by in a flash. If your puppies end up being adopted, you'll be saying goodbye to them in no time, an event that is often bittersweet. Enjoy the pups while you have them, and when it's time to let go, you'll have the satisfaction of knowing you gave them the best possible beginning. Contributor Bio Jean Marie Bauhaus Jean Marie Bauhaus is a pet parent, pet blogger and novelist from Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she usually writes under the supervision of a lapful of furbabies. Neonatal Stage: Birth To Two Weeks Puppies completely depend on their mother dog in the first 14 days, even for elimination. They cannot regulate their body temperature or relieve themselves without stimulation. Provide a haven for the new mother and her litter to bond without disturbance. Change bedding materials regularly. Monitor their health and observe any signs of distress. Be attentive during the neonatal stage. Early interventions in case of illness ensure better outcomes for not just one affected pup but the entire litter. Your little Labrador begins to showcase an array of exciting changes and developments. The lab puppies open their eyes in the second week. It gives them their first glimpse into the new world. It is a crucial stage to establish a foundation for proper care. They share a bond now with their siblings To ensure optimal growth during this period, provide high-quality puppy food. Adhere to recommended feeding schedules for best results. Newborn Labrador dogs explore their surroundings and interact with other dogs, humans, and new environments. The new puppy becomes more curious around 12 weeks old. You can see a lot of vocalizations. Expose them to new experiences like meeting different people and animals and hearing unusual sounds. Doing so builds confidence in your young pup. It reduces the likelihood of developing fears or anxiety later in life. Foster positive socialization by guiding gently through these new situations. Praise and reward good behavior. Socialization should be done before vaccinations and preferably within a specific time window. Newborn lab puppies Adolescence: Three To Six Months Lab pups go through a fast-growing juvenile stage between 3 and 6 months. They will begin to lose their baby teeth and grow their adult set. Lab pups are considered adolescents at six months. Continue training and socializing them during this time. Common challenges during adolescence include chewing, biting, and digging. Maintain regular veterinarian check-ups during this period. Proper care for your newborn lab puppy ensures they grow healthy and strong. From feeding and nutrition to grooming and hygiene, this section covers everything. This nutrient-rich milk contains colostrum. It provides antibodies to protect the pup from infections in its early days. Are you adopting an orphaned puppy? Bottle-feeding the babies is required every two to three hours then. Buy commercial canine milk replacers or create your formula with a veterinarian-approved recipe. Vaccinations And Health Checks Ensure your newborn Lab puppy gets the right vaccinations and health checks. Vaccinations can prevent fatal diseases that Labradors are prone to. They include distemper, rabies, and hepatitis. The puppy vaccination schedule includes a series of shots. They should be given at specific intervals to ensure maximum protection. Health checks are essential for newborn labs. Your vet must examine your puppy for any illness or disease. Grooming And Hygiene Keep your newborn Lab clean and well-groomed. Regular grooming sessions help bond with your pup, besides keeping their coat shiny and healthy. Use dog shampoo specially formulated for puppies for bathing. Human shampoo or soap can irritate their skin. It can strip their coat of natural oils, which keep them soft and shiny. Exercise And Playtime An eight-week-old Lab puppy should have two minute exercise sessions daily. Provide exercises like walks, runs , playing fetch, or tug-of-war games. Use puzzle feeders and chew toys to keep them entertained and mentally stimulated. Playtime with other puppies is essential for providing socialization opportunities. Adequate exercise prevents behavioral problems like excessive chewing or digging. Exercise promotes better sleep patterns. Your pup can rest well at night after an active day. Establish regular digestion habits and take them outside when they finish eating. Use positive reinforcement: Reward your pup with treats and praise when they go potty outside to reinforce good behavior. Consistency is key: Take your puppy out regularly throughout the day. First thing in the morning, after meals, and before bedtime. Watch for signs: Puppies may show signs like sniffing or circling when they need to go potty. Learn their cues to react quickly. Use a crate: Crate training can prevent accidents inside the house. Prevent anxiety or discomfort not leaving your pup inside for too long. Puppies have small bladders. Be patient and consistent. It involves introducing your Labrador to a comfortable crate, a special spot to relax, feel secure and sleep peacefully. Most puppies become comfortable in their crate within 1 to 3 weeks with patience and consistency. During the first few days, open the crate door while allowing them to explore it freely. You can start feeding them inside once they become familiar with the new surroundings. Place toys to encourage them further. Over time, you can close the door for short periods while staying nearby. It will prevent them from feeling abandoned or scared. Once they are in the sitting position, give them the treat and praise them. Stay: Have your puppy sit first. Gradually increase the distance between you and your puppy as they get better at staying. Give them a treat once they arrive, even if it takes some time for them to obey. Positive reinforcement is key. Reward good behavior with treats or praise instead of punishing bad behavior. Keep training sessions short minutes and frequent several times daily. It is a common challenge associated with their teething and biting behavior. Here are some solutions to manage them: Avoid Rough Play: Rough play can encourage your puppy to bite harder. Discouraging this behavior is vital. Provide Chew Toys : Give your lab puppy appropriate chew toys. It alleviates discomfort caused by teething and prevents destructive chewing. Socializing: Socializing your lab puppy early reduce anxiety contributing to destructive chewing behavior. Bonding With newborn lab puppies: Creating A Loving Relationship Bonding with your labrador pup is crucial to enjoying a happy life together. Create opportunities for one-on-one time and positive experiences. Establish a loving relationship through bonding with your Labrador. Spending quality time with your furry friend deepens the bond. Take them on walks, play fetch, and cuddle up together. It improves communication and trust. Understand when they want to play or rest. Notice their likes and dislikes of toys or treats. Carefully examine each room for hazards. Electrical cords, poisonous plants, or small objects that could be swallowed must be removed. Secure fences and gates in outdoor areas where your lab puppy will play. Continuing Education And Training: Advanced Training, Tricks Now you can move on to advanced training techniques and tricks to keep them challenged. Agility Training: Set up an obstacle course in your backyard or enroll your puppy in an agility class. This sport is great for building confidence, coordination, and physical fitness. Retrieval Games: As natural retrievers, Labs love to fetch! You can teach them to retrieve specific items by name or even play hide-and-seek games. Tracking: Labs have a great sense of smell, making them perfect candidates for tracking games! Start by hiding treats around the house or yard. Gradually progress to more challenging scent trails. Tricks: Teaching your Lab new tricks is a fun way to bond with your pet. The vet pictures physical exams to detect potential health problems before they become serious. They advise on vaccinations and preventative measures. Keep their weight in check through balanced meals and exercise. Labs have great appetites. Train them early on what is allowed or not allowed. FAQs on just born newborn lab puppies How big are newborn labradors? A: Newborn Labrador puppies typically weigh around 1 pound and are about inches long. How many puppies do Labs have the first time? A: Labrador retrievers can have 1 to 12 puppies in their first litter, but the average is 6 to 8. How do you take care of a newborn Labrador puppy? A: To care for a newborn Labrador puppy, ensure it stays warm. Feed it every hours, help it eliminate waste, and keep it clean. When can you touch newborn puppies? A: You can touch newborn dogs when necessary. Avoid handling them too much in the first few weeks. They are delicate, and their immune systems are still developing. What to do when your Lab is having puppies? A: Provide a quiet and comfortable space for her to give birth. When can mom dog sleep away from puppies? A: The mom dog can sleep away from the puppies once they are weaned. It is at around weeks of age. How often do newborn Labrador puppies eat? A: Newborn Labrador puppies should be fed every hours or on demand. Follow this until they are about weeks old and can start eating dog food. Can a 4-week-old puppy survive without a mom? A: A 4-week-old puppy can survive without its mom. It must be fed with a milk replacer every few hours, requiring extra care and attention. Will a black Lab only have black puppies? A: Not necessarily. How do newborn puppies find their mom? A: Newborn puppies use their sense of smell to find their mom. Mother Dog produces a unique scent that they recognize and follow. What color puppies will 2 chocolate Labs have? A: Two chocolate Labs can have chocolate , black, or yellow puppies. How much is a chocolate brown Labrador? A: The price of a chocolate brown Labrador varies depending on location, breeder, and pedigree. It can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. What are the most Lab puppies in one litter? A: The largest recorded litter of Labrador retriever puppies is .Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness. Pet Nutrition Raising orphaned puppies can be very rewarding. It is, however, a serious responsibility that requires some time, money and work on your part if you want to help the little ones grow up healthy and happy. Close observation and prompt attention if any problems develop are especially important. If you have not raised orphans before, you should have a veterinarian examine the pups before you get started. Learn more about puppy development Basic medical care for newborn puppies What are the medical concerns when raising orphaned puppies? A normal rectal temperature for a newborn puppy is 95 to 99 degrees Fahrenheit for the first week, and 97 to for the second week. Puppies under the age of about 38 days have a reduced ability to regulate their body temperature and will need a temperature-controlled environment. See the section on warmth below. Weighing the puppies daily to check for weight gain can reassure you that they are doing well. If a puppy is failing to gain weight or losing weight, you should consult with your veterinarian. Because their eyes are very sensitive to light, they should be kept out of direct sunlight until approximately four weeks of age. The ear canals of puppies open between five and eight days. A puppy burns far more body heat per pound of body weight than an adult dog. To stay warm, puppies depend on radiant heat from their mother. In her absence, they need constant temperature control. Heat lamps or hot water bottles can be used to keep the temperature controlled. During the first four or five days of life, puppies should be kept in an environment that is between 85 and 90 degrees. The temperature may gradually be decreased to 80 degrees by the seventh to tenth day, and may be reduced to degrees by the end of the fourth week. Provide necessary warmth or cooling to the puppies gradually. Take care not to overheat the puppies; newborns cannot move away from the heat on their own. Stimulation for elimination. For the first two weeks of life, puppies are stimulated by their mother to encourage urination and defecation. In the absence of their mother, you will have to provide the stimulation. After two weeks, puppies should urinate and defecate on their own. Watch them carefully to make sure that happens. Diarrhea is common in puppies and may be caused by parasites, viruses, bacteria, food changes e. If the diarrhea is mild and the puppy is otherwise alert and vigorous, you can try giving less food more often and monitor the pup closely. This can be done by diluting the formula with extra water, or giving the puppy clean warm water in a bottle or syringe. If the diarrhea is severe, lasts more than three or four feedings, or contains blood or obvious parasites, you should call a veterinarian and also bring a sample of feces. The lack of normal parental care may mean that you receive puppies who are dehydrated. They may also become dehydrated from other causes, such as diarrhea, vomiting or by being chilled. One sign of dehydration is loss of elasticity in the skin. The gums should be moist and shiny; if you touch them, they should not be sticky. Hypoglycemia, an abnormal decrease of sugar in the blood, can also happen to orphaned puppies. The signs to look for are lack of strength, lethargy lack of movement , and muscle twitching sometimes with convulsions. If a puppy shows signs of hypoglycemia, place a few drops of corn syrup under his tongue and on the gums, and call your veterinarian immediately for further assistance. Internal parasites. If a puppy is developing very slowly, has an extremely large bloated belly or has blood in his stool, he may have internal parasites. A stool sample should be taken to your veterinarian for examination. Puppy living space, feeding, disease prevention Living space. If the puppies were being cared for by their mother, she would choose a place that is soft, warm and away from full sunlight. In the absence of their mother, you must provide this type of environment. A box may be large enough for a first home for the family. Put the box in a warm, sheltered space. See the section above on temperature. If the litter is a big one, you may need to buy a child-size plastic pool. As the puppies grow, watch to see whether they can climb out of the box or pool. Once puppies start to move, they can climb well within a surprisingly short period of time. Use clean packing paper newspaper without print or newspaper layered on top of a flat towel for the first week or so. After they are able to lift their heads and move around a bit, you can use a towel, sheet or blanket. Newborns will need food every two to three hours, around the clock. Six or eight meals, equally spaced over 24 hours, are sufficient for most puppies; small or weak puppies may need more feedings. You can give your orphans complete nutrition by buying a commercial puppy milk replacer such as Esbilac , which can be purchased through your veterinarian or a pet supply store. Commercial milk replacers have feeding directions on the label and should be given at the puppy's body temperature about degrees. Once the can is opened or the powder reconstituted, unused formula should be kept refrigerated and discarded after 24 hours. When the puppies are weeks old, you can start feeding them milk replacer at room temperature. The size of the hole in the nipple is crucial. If you turn the bottle upside down and the milk drips freely, the hole is too large. The bottle should require a light squeeze simulating a puppy suckling for milk to drip out. If you need to make the hole bigger, you can heat a needle with a lighter and use it to enlarge the hole. Adopt from Best Friends Animal Sanctuary Here are the steps for feeding: Position the puppy on his stomach with his head level, as though he is nursing from mom. For this reason, do not feed the puppy on his back. Open the puppy's mouth gently with one finger and place the tip of the nipple on his tongue. If he won't eat, try stroking him. Tilt the bottle up slightly to prevent the puppy from inhaling too much air. Do not force the puppy to nurse, or allow him to nurse too fast. After each feeding, the puppy should be burped. Hold him against your shoulder and gently pat his back. Tube-feeding may be necessary if a puppy refuses to nurse well with the bottle method. You will need to work with your veterinarian to make certain that you understand the technique and can safely perform tube feeding. If done improperly, it can result in life-threatening aspiration pneumonia from formula accidentally entering the lungs. Disease prevention. Puppies are very vulnerable to disease, so disease prevention is really important. Always wash your hands before touching the puppies. If you work with other animals or visit shelters or dog parks anyplace where you come into contact with other dogs , always change your clothes and shoes before entering the area where the puppies are kept and before handling the puppies. Nail trimming. The puppies will need nail trims often, so if you have not trimmed toenails on dogs, ask someone to show you how to do it safely. Human nail clippers work well on small puppies. You should limit the number of visitors and the number of people who handle the pups until the puppies are a few weeks old. Hand-washing before handling the puppies is always recommended. Limit interaction if the visitors have been in contact with sick animals or have been to a shelter just before visiting. Use caution: Gentle handling and disease control will continue to be concerns for many weeks. Veterinary checkup and weaning Visits to the vet. Ask your veterinarian about diet, deworming and vaccinations. Puppies in a foster or sheltering situation should start receiving vaccinations at weeks of age and every two weeks thereafter until 18 weeks of age. The vet may want to evaluate each puppy and start individual records for their future human families. Weaning puppies to gruel. During the third week, begin offering the puppies a dish of water. Then, introduce the puppies to gruel. Make a gruel by blending a good-quality dry puppy food with commercial milk replacer. Put the gruel warmed up and not too thick in a low pan. As the puppies discover how to lap up the gruel, you can gradually thicken the mixture. Feed gruel four times a day. By week six, most puppies can eat a diet of dry puppy food. Socializing puppies In your role of dog parent, you will have the challenge of safely socializing the pups to other canines and the rest of the world. They have much to learn — things that mom would normally teach them. Invite fully vaccinated friendly dog guests over to visit, and introduce the puppies to dog-friendly cats as well. Be careful to protect the puppies from any harm, keeping in mind that not all other animals like puppies. When children visit, supervision is absolutely necessary. Puppies can scratch and bite; children sometimes get too rough in their handling of them. Both children and puppies can benefit from learning the proper manners required for human-animal relationships to be safe and harmonious. The puppies should also encounter a variety of people, objects, sounds and smells — anything you can think of that is commonplace out in the world. To prevent them from becoming fearful of noises, for instance, you can play thunderstorm sounds, run the vacuum and turn on the TV. Why Trust Treehugger? If you have newborn puppies either in your home or on the way, you're likely "nesting," getting ready for the tiny, squeaking balls of fur. Where will they sleep? How often will they eat? Will they need blankets? How will you know if they're healthy? This article provides you with important care tips, including feeding, waste management, and much more. Why Pets Matters to Treehugger At Treehugger, we are advocates of animal welfare, including our pets and other domestic animals. We hope our readers will adopt rescue pets instead of shopping from breeders or pet stores, and will also consider supporting local animal shelters. Newborn Puppies Dogs are pregnant for about nine weeks, so that's how long puppies have to develop inside their mothers. When they're born, they still have a lot of work to do. In the sense of development, "a newborn puppy is not unlike a premature child," Dr. Puppies are born blind and mostly deaf and without any teeth. But even though they can't see or hear very well, they can make noise. They make mewling, little sounds. Newborn puppies will open their eyes usually between days old. Their eyes are a bluish-gray, hazy color and they can't see very well at first. A puppy's vision will gradually improve, and his eyes will turn their true color between weeks of age. How to Feed a Newborn Puppy A mother dog's milk gives puppies everything they need for the first four weeks of their lives. Although newborn puppies can't walk, they scoot around on their bellies and instinctively find their mother's milk. Puppies usually nurse every couple of hours and sleep the rest of the time. To make sure puppies are getting enough milk, check them every few hours to make sure they are warm and nursing. If any puppies are crying or seem cold, VCA Hospitals recommends putting them on the mother's back teats because they have the most milk. Also check often to make sure they aren't being pushed away by other puppies. You also can weigh newborn puppies every few days to make sure they are gaining weight. Use a kitchen scale when they are tiny. It depends on the breed, but most puppies should double their birth weight in the first week, according to VCA Hospitals. The puppies must be fed every couple of hours. If you've never done it before, work with your veterinarian or a rescue group that specializes in puppies for advice. You'll feed newborn puppies milk replacement formula that is made just for puppies. Prepare the formula as directed on the package and use the guidelines suggesting how much to give the puppy. Generally, it's 1 cc of formula for every ounce of body weight, according to Best Friends Animal Society. Warning Don't feed cow's milk to puppies. It does not have the same nutrients as dog's milk and does not have enough calories, calcium, or phosphorus for growing puppies. Feed the puppy with a bottle or syringe, slowly offering milk while the puppy is on his stomach. Don't feed him on his back or he could get milk in his lungs. Be careful not to feed him quickly, which could cause choking. Burp the puppy at the end of each feeding by putting him on your shoulder and slowly rubbing his back until he releases air. For step-by-step tips, visit Best Friends for newborn puppy feeding and care instructions. If they are with their mother, they will try to stay snuggled up with her and rely on her body heat and each other to stay warm. They can't regulate their own body temperature, so they depend on outside sources for warmth. Have you ever seen a pile of puppies? They like to snuggle for the warmth and comfort. When the mother leaves to go outside or just get a break, it's important that they have another source for heat. You can either keep the room warm or put a heat lamp over the area where the puppies are being kept. VCA suggests that the temperature be around 85 to 90 degrees F .After that, it can be lowered to about 80 degrees F .Newborn puppies need help to go to the bathroom. Their mother does this by licking them, which stimulates them to urinate and defecate. If the puppies are orphaned, you can help them by dipping a washcloth or cotton ball in warm water, then gently massaging their bottoms after feeding. It's very important that you do this because puppies can't do this without help until they are about 3 or 4 weeks old. You no doubt will be wondering when newborn puppies can go outside to the bathroom and play. Puppies need a lot of upbeat interaction with other dogs—especially during the key socialization period when they're between 9 and 14 weeks. But they are also susceptible to illnesses before they are fully vaccinated, which usually isn't until they are around 16 weeks old. Your vet likely will say it's okay for your puppy to be outdoors in your own yard as long as you haven't had a lot of other dogs around. But you'll want to carry your puppy when going for walks or going in and out of the vet's office until he's had all his shots. Frequently Asked Questions Should you touch a newborn puppy? Unless a puppy is orphaned, you should avoid touching it for the first three weeks. Because they can't yet maintain their body temperatures, it's important that they stay near their mother and siblings for heat. Handling them could take them away from their heat source, which can be dangerous. You can generally begin petting and handling them after three weeks. What is a whelping box? A whelping box is a nesting box designed to protect a dam dog mother and her puppies during and after birth. The box protects the puppies from the cold and is meant to help keep them from being smothered or crushed by their mother. Should you leave newborn puppies alone with their mother? You should supervise a mother dog with her newborn puppies to make sure she isn't neglectful or aggressive toward them. You should also keep an eye so that no puppies get accidentally trapped under her, which could suffocate them. How do you know when newborn puppies are cold? It's normal for newborn puppies to huddle close together or pile on top of each other for warmth. If a puppy is crying, it could be a sign that it's too cold. Orphaned puppies, especially, need extra care because they don't have the heat source of their mother or siblings. If the puppies are spread out around the whelping box, they're probably too hot. Author Mary Jo DiLonardo has become an expert at caring for pets after fostering over 30 dogs and puppies, including many special needs puppies. For more than 25 years, she has covered a wide range of topics focused on the environment, animals, science and anything that helps make the world a better place. Training and Socialization Back to Top The birth of puppies is an exciting time. It's beautiful to watch a mother care for her newborns, especially in the early stages of life. A newborn puppy is completely helpless and dependent upon its mother. The first week of a puppy's life is mainly about sleeping and eating so it will grow. Puppies should remain with their mother and littermates until about age eight to 12 weeks. However, it is most crucial to have a mother during the first few weeks of life. A puppy that has been separated from its mother will need human intervention. Raising a newborn puppy takes a lot of time and intensive care. This is not quite the same thing as caring for a young puppy. They cannot see and can hear very little, if at all. Yet they are able to make noise, which sounds like high-pitched squealing. They have no teeth at birth and are unable to walk. Newborn puppies are incapable of urinating or defecating on their own. In addition, a newborn puppy cannot regulate its own body temperature. Most newborn puppies are instinctively able to find their mother's nipples and begin nursing right after they are born, or whelped. Once cleaned up by mom or a helping human hand they will crawl towards the mother's warm belly, find the teats, and begin to suckle. Fun Fact With proper food intake and mothering care, a newborn puppy should double its weight in the first 10 days of its life. That's more than 22 hours a day, but sleep doesn't happen all at once. Pups will nap on and off throughout the day and night, keeping warm with littermates and the mother's body heat. In between naps, they spend the rest of the time eating and being groomed by mom. Newborn puppies eat about every two hours or more. Because newborn puppies cannot see, hear, or walk, they do not have much exploring to do early on. The puppy's world is all about mom, littermates, and the box they all sleep in. Health and Care During the first few weeks of a puppy's life, the mother dog spends the majority of her time providing food and care. The mother keeps her puppies clean and nurses them. She licks the anus and genitals of each puppy to stimulate urination and defecation. During this time, humans can gently hold and pet the puppies for brief periods as long as this does not seem to upset the mother dog. It's more likely for human contact to be welcomed if those humans are part of the mother dog's family. In general, it's best to let mom do her job and stick to just petting the puppies. However, there are situations where the mother is unwilling or unable to care for her pups. Or, mom might be doing a fine job, but one or more puppies are not growing properly. This is when human intervention is the only possible way to save the puppies. If you decide to care for an orphaned puppy, be prepared to spend most of your time with the puppy for the next few weeks. Warning Any time a puppy is not gaining weight well or becomes orphaned, that puppy should be taken to a vet as soon as possible to assess her health. Puppies can get very sick very quickly without proper care. When in doubt about the health of a puppy, do not delay the vet visit! If the puppy was rejected by her mother, it may be due to a health issue detected by the mother. In the meantime, you will need to do your best to provide the care her mother would have. Create a warm environment for the puppy to sleep. A small box with blankets and a heating lamp is ideal. Keep the lamp at a fair distance so the environment does not overheat. A heating pad and blankets can also work, just make sure the heating pad is well-covered to prevent burns. Bottle feed a special puppy formula every hours. You should be able to find puppy milk replacement at a pet food store or through your veterinarian. Do not feed puppies cow's milk, as it does not provide adequate nutrition and it can cause digestive issues. Use a warm cloth or cotton ball to stimulate urination and defecation immediately after each meal. The amounts of urine and feces will be very tiny. A normal stool will be yellowish and soft. Regularly massage the puppy's body and clean the puppy as needed. Massage will mimic the feeling of the mother grooming, something experts believe is an integral part of development. Food and Nutrition In general, a newborn puppy gets all the nutrition it needs from its mother's milk. The first milk made by the mother contains colostrum, a substance that contains additional antibodies to help the puppy fight infection. This can be absorbed by the puppy for the first day or two of life and provides some temporary immunity against whatever illnesses the mother has immunity against. Be aware that commercial puppy formula will not provide colostrum. Bottle-fed puppies that do not get colostrum are especially vulnerable to illness and may not thrive. A veterinarian may be able to administer serum from another dog to the puppy within the first 24 hours of its life to mimic the effects of colostrum. Newborn puppies will not have teeth for several weeks and are unable to digest puppy food. Do not introduce any kind of dog food until the puppies are ready to begin the weaning process, usually around weeks of age, unless it is otherwise recommended by a veterinarian. Training and Socialization A newborn puppy is too young to go through any kind of training, but there may be some things you can do to get her used to people and her environment. If the mother permits it, handle the puppies regularly for a short time. Take care not to keep the pup away from mom for more than a few minutes. You can use the time to cuddle and pet the puppy, acquainting her with the smell and feel of humans and the environment. Here's what you need to know about taking care of your newborn pups after they are born. Approach the Puppies With Caution Although you may want to pet and hold the puppies constantly, it is important not to intervene too much in the first week or two of their lives, as they are very susceptible to disease, and it can be stressful for the mother and puppies. Use caution when approaching the puppies, as some mothers may show aggression to humans or other household pets if they perceive a threat. As the puppies get older and more active, your dog will want more and more time to get away and sleep, exercise, or socialize with members of the household. So give your dog space to get away from the puppies, but make sure that she is often returning to check on them. Provide A Warm Environment Puppies cannot regulate their body temperature until they are 3 to 4 weeks old. Therefore, for the first 4 weeks of their lives, you should provide a warm, clean box or bedding for the mother and puppies to share. To keep the puppies warm, position a heating lamp above it. Ensure there are unheated areas, as the puppies will need to move away from the heat source if they become too warm. Monitor the puppies' temperature. If puppies are too cold, they cannot process milk and it may curdle in their stomach. Do not use heating pads, as the puppies may be cold and stay on the heating pad too much. If it is too hot, it can cause burns. Start Socializing the Puppies If the mother dog allows it, you can get the puppies used to your presence. Socializing them early can help ensure that they fit nicely into a household. Puppies should initially be weighed twice a day for the first week or two, then daily. Puppies should never lose weight or even maintain weight—either of these is cause for supplementation and concern. If you notice that one of your puppies is smaller, not gaining weight, or has less energy than the others, consult your veterinarian. Puppies should not be taken away from their mother and sent to their new homes too quickly, as they learn important social rules and behavior from their mother and siblings. Puppies should not be separated from their mother if they are younger than 8 weeks old, and it may be illegal before this in many states. Waiting until they are 10 weeks old will give the maximum benefit of social interaction with their mother and littermates. Feeding and Weaning Newborn puppies should nurse at least every 2 hours for the first week or two of life. After this, they can stretch the feeding times to hours, as long as they are still gaining weight and doing well. Once the puppies are 3 to 4 weeks old, you can begin the weaning process by giving them access to puppy food. You can mix a high-quality commercial puppy food with water or canned puppy food to make it easier for them to eat. It is important that the food is softened at first. They should still have constant access to the mother, as she will continue to nurse them. Over the next few weeks, they will rely more and more on puppy food rather than nursing. Most dogs will wean their puppies by 5 to 6 weeks of age. Puppies have sharp teeth at this point, so nursing may be painful to the mother dog. Continue to be vigilant and monitor her for signs of mastitis. Contact Your Vet Just After the Puppies Are Born Contact your veterinarian to ask for their recommendation regarding when the puppies should first be examined. They may want to see them right away to evaluate for cleft palates , umbilical hernias , and other health concerns, or they may advise you to wait until they are a bit older. Most veterinarians recommend deworming at regular 2-week intervals starting at 2 weeks old. Lauren Jones graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in , after receiving her bachelor's degree.Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful?

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below Peanut Butter and Chicken Dog Treats One Dish Kitchen If you have some extra bananas in your pantry, use the last of them for these dog treats, which combine chicken broth, bananas, eggs, peanut butter, and other simple ingredients you probably already have handy. Help them mellow out with these all-natural homemade biscuits. Filled with lavender or chamomile, your canine will go from running laps around the kitchen to laying on your lap in no time. Corinne Sullivan Editor Corinne Sullivan is an Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers a variety of beats, including lifestyle, entertainment, relationships, shopping, and more. She is also the author of the novel Indecent. Olivia Muenter Olivia Muenter is a freelance writer and former fashion and beauty editor who writes about fashion, beauty, lifestyle, relationships, travel, home decor, and more for Woman's Day and beyond. When she's not reading or talking about reading on Bad on Paper, the bookish podcast she co-hosts , you can find Olivia working on her first novel, curating the perfect playlist, or shopping online. Watch Next. The 6 Best Types of Toys for a Poodle Overview If you think of dog toys as needing to serve as tools to meet a Poodle's needs, you may be surprised at how amazingly helpful they can be. The right toys can help a great deal with everything from teething woes, to negative behavior associated with boredom.In addition, toys can serve as a method of creating a closer bond with your Poodle, encourage activity in an otherwise sedentary dog, and even boost a Poodle's brain power. Here we will take a look at the 6 types of toys every Poodle should have to meet a wide variety of canine needs. Teething begins by 3 to 4 months old and lasts until the 7 to 8 month mark. During this time, there are incredible amounts of itching and most puppies feel some level of discomfort. This causes an overwhelming need to chew to soothe those teething woes. For these reasons, one of the best things that you can do is find the right toys for your teething Poodle puppy. Qualities of effective teething toys: The oral sensations that a puppy feels can move from moment to moment. Discomfort waxes and wanes. And itching can come in waves. So, toys need to be very versatile. The best toys will have: A variety of surface textures. Cloth, rope, and hard rubber should be available to meet chewing urges at any one particular time. Rope toys are especially helpful, as the twisted strands are good 'scratchers'. Small nubs. This is of particular importance; tiny nubs work to massage gums which helps the pup feel better. A puppy needs to be able to manipulate the toy into different parts of his mouth. Proper sizing. This is most relevant to toy Poodles, since many dog teething toys are sized too big for a tiny toy's mouth. If a Poodle puppy cannot instantly find relief, he may move onto something else.Recommended teething toys: Below are our 1 most recommended toys for Poodle pups that are in the throes of teething. The first 3 are for toy Poodles, though larger options can be found for miniatures and standards. The Nylabone is just one example of great teething chews that are flavored to entice a puppy to mouth them and come in a wide range of sizes, to accommodate all Poodle varieties. If you do not see the images, try a refresh. On mobile, you may need to turn the screen horizontal to see all 4. And if this describes your Poodle, no doubt you have had a hard time finding the right toys that will stand up to aggressive chewing. A dog's urge to chew is not limited to toys; with this type of drive, nothing is off limits. If a Poodle is not happy with his toys, one of two things will happen: 1 the dog will move on to other objects in the house, which is not only destructive but also unsafe or 2 the dog will become irritable and stressed as he's unable to satisfy his urges. Qualities of the best toys for strong chewers: To meet your Poodle's needs, the goal will be to provide fun chew toys that are specifically designed to handle aggressive chewers. While no toy is literally indestructible, some come very close. The toy will need to: Be able to stand up to high bite force. Be safe - A great feature to look for is a color indicator that the toy has been chewed down too far. Some toys are guaranteed, meaning that if a color starts to show, you'll get a free replacement. Fun - If it does not have the right texture and pliability to feel good in a Poodle's mouth, it'll be of no use. Recommended toys for Poodles that are super aggressive chewers: For this, both Kongs and Doughnuts are the two best options, with Kongs being the best for toy Poodles images are below. Kongs are great because they come in a wide range of sizes that will be appropriate for toys, minis, and standards. These are color coded, with pink and blue for puppies, red for 'normal' adult chewers, and black is reserved for the strongest chewers. In other words, a puppy would never be able to bite down on a black Kong dog toy and an aggressive chewer could tear up a pink one. The 'classic' Kong is designed to be filled with treats or kibble, which draws a dog to it and encourages him to stay focused. If your Poodle likes to chew, but has not shown a history of shredding toys to bits, you may find that the Kong 'minimally stuffed' chew toys are well received. These are also great because they come in all sizes from small to large. Goughnuts are colored coded as well, with yellow, orange, and green for strong chewers PSI and black reserved for professional grinders at a whopping PSI. What is great about these is that they are guaranteed. Each has red in the middle. If you see even a tiny spot of red, you may return the toy for just the cost of shipping out a new one. There are 3 sizes as well; but these will be a bit too large for most toy Poodles. Toys are shown below. And in this sense, thinking of toys as 'stay busy' tools can make a huge difference in your Poodle's happiness level. When a puppy or dog is just sitting around without anything to do, he will reach a limit where boredom turns into frustration. And where monotony turns into depression. If your Poodle has been too bored, you may not even realize it until you hand over a super-fun, interactive toy and see him perk up. Alternatively, some Poodles are very expressive about how they feel. It must be noted that regular exercise plays a role in this as well. If your Poodle is not taken out twice per day for at least minute sessions, even the best of toys may not fix his woes. So, a good balance of getting outside for walks and offering the right toys during down-time is the best fix. Qualities of the best toys to fix boredom and keep a Poodle occupied: You'll want toys that will be perfect for both when a Poodle is home alone and also when you are home but cannot interact with your Poodle at the moment. These toys should: Allow a Poodle to play fully independently; you will not need to do anything else other than point out the toy if you are there. Call out to the puppy or dog. A huge aspect is that the toy interacts with the dog. In this way, playing is a two-way street. The dog noses the toy, the toy responds. The dog chews the toy, the toy reacts. This type of element can keep a dog busy for a long time, basically until he's completely tuckered out. Recommended 'stay busy' toys for Poodles: There ares some incredibly fun options. The Babble Balls toys are out of this world; these are super interactive toys that can keep a puppy or dog amused and busy for hours. There are 3 sizes small for toys, medium for minis, and large for standard Poodles. Also, there are two fun types. One lets out animal noises. So, as a Poodle touches the toy, engaging sounds like pigs, frogs, bears, birds, even other dogs speak to him. There are 20 different animal sounds in all. The other is just as wonderful. It lets out funny phrases such as 'Come here, puppy! There are 20 amusing, encouraging phrases in all. For both of these, the toys automatically shut off when not in use, so the batteries do not run out. The Look Who's Taking line of toys is super fun as well. There are over 15 different types of stuffed animals, and each one makes a corresponding animal noise. These are good sized quality toys that stand up to daily playing. The size of these toys range from 5" the baby chick to 7" the cow and a bunch in between. There is a parrot, frog, rooster, monkey, goat, lobster, and more. These toys are shown below. These serve two purposes in one swoop. As an added benefit, if you place your Poodle's food in this sort of toy on days that you are not home, it helps prevent bloat, a dangerous health condition fast eating is a common trigger , which is a top concern for standard Poodles and is always something to be aware of no matter what type or size dog you have. Qualities of great treat-release toys: There are a few aspects to keep in mind. For this type of toy to do its job, it should: Hold in treats enough that they are not released too easily, but at the same time allow a Poodle to smell them in order to trigger a response. Be designed to work with a variety of different dog treats so that you are not forced to purchase additional treats. Be made with safe materials. Be durable to stand up to daily use. Be easy to clean since you'll want to be able to rinse away food particles. Be sized correctly. It's not uncommon for owners of toy Poodles to have trouble finding treat dispensing toys for their tiny dogs, so for these Poodles, it must fit the needs of dogs 10 lbs. Recommended treat dispensing toys for toy, mini and standard Poodles: There are some great options for all Poodles images below. Busy Buddy makes two treat release toys. The barnacle toy is perfect for toy Poodles, even puppies. It is composed of 3 tiny separate spheres, so toy Poodle can easily mouth onto one of them at a time. If you like the looks of this one, but don't have a toy Poodle, no worries.The other type is the twist sphere, which is adjustable, so you can control how easy or hard it is for your Poodle to get to the treats. This comes in small for dogs 8 to 20 lbs. The IQ Treat Ball is a great toy for toy Poodles on the larger end, minis and standards; this is available in both 3 and 4 inch diameters. It's a neat little sphere that is adjustable and releases food as it's nudged which encourages a dog to move. The Bob-A-Lot is a good-sized toy that is best suited for mini and standard Poodles. This has a large chamber that holds a full meal, and its bright color and wobbly movements make eating fun. Distress and even panicking when owners are away is referred to as separation anxiety, and this is not uncommon with dogs. In fact, it may be even more so with breeds like the Poodle due to their instinctive sensitivity and close human bonding. So, while all toys are important in their own way, perhaps the one type that can make the most dramatic impact on a Poodle is a companion toy. These will mimic a living creature to become an instant friend. With this, a dog is no longer alone. In addition, it would be remiss to not mention webcam devices that allow you to interact with your Poodle when you're not there. These are quite amazing, though are not fitting for those on a tight budget. Qualities of best companion toys: There's no competition here and there's no comparing. The very best ones are Smart Pets; these are good-sized quality stuffed animals that emit a rhythmic, soothing heartbeat. This alone instantly swoops away heavy feelings of isolation. In addition, is an option to send out a comforting warmth. This is as close as you can get to giving your Poodle a companion without obtaining another dog, and these are just marvelous. Qualities of the best pet webcams: Not very long ago, there were some sparse choices for this; however, the features where quite limited. Now, there's some truly amazing devices. While these can be a bit pricey, if you really want to go all out and come the absolute closest you can to being with your Poodle when you're not with him, the webcam will: Have two-way audio so that you can both speak to your Poodle and hear any barking in response. Have a wide-angle view and night vision, so that you can clearly see your puppy or dog at all times and under any sort of lighting though it is always recommended to keep lights on for a dog that's home alone. Easily sync to your smartphone Hold a good number of treats, so that the interaction can be frequent and extended. Toss treats out with a tap on your phone, and at a good distance to make it clear that you're playing with your Poodle. Our 1 recommend companion toys and a super-neat interactive webcam are below. If you don't see the images, try a refresh. On mobile, you may need to turn your screen horizontal to see all 4. It's what they live for. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for your Poodle is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15 minutes, and it will mean the world. And do not discount older adults and even seniors. The need to hold onto bonds is stronger than ever. However, it's not uncommon for a Poodle to need something colorful and interesting to get really involved with a game of fetch. You'll want it to be durable and importantly the right size so that your Poodle can easily mouth it. Another option that is great to play on rainy days are puzzle games. With this, you work together as a teacher and student. You'll teach your Poodle how to nose levers and paw buttons to find hidden treats. There is something to be said about the Poodle ranking 2 in intelligence ; this is indeed a super smart breed. However, dogs are as smart as opportunity allows.For these, you'll want to pay attention to the level typically 1,2 and 3 or beginner, intermediate, and advanced so that the puzzle is doable. Recommended super-fun fetch toys and a fun puzzle game are below this one is level 2, but there are lots of options. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. Feeding a Poodle Overview Ensuring that your Poodle is on a well-balanced diet is one of the most important elements to keeping your canine family member healthy, both now and into the future. This section will cover all Poodle feeding guidelines including how often to feed a Poodle, serving sizes, dry vs wet, grain vs grain-free, and top recommended kibble. Don't need all of the details and just want to know which brands are recommended? New Puppies - The Importance of Gradually Switching Foods Before you even bring your Poodle home, it is very important to discuss with the breeder or shelter worker if you are adopting a rescue exactly which brand of food they have been feeding to your Poodle. A fast change in food can cause upset stomach and digestive problems. Breeders and shelters are buying food in bulk and have to feed many dogs which is a factor in which brand they choose; so there is a good chance that you will want to offer your Poodle something different. Have both the current food and the new food on hand and make a gradual switch over the course of 3 weeks. Though you will be leaving food out at all times, it is important that the food is fresh. Do not just top it off throughout the day, rinse and clean the bowl as necessary so that old food is not stuck at the bottom of the dish. Puppy: Starting at just about the 3 month mark, Poodles of all varieties should be eating 3 meals per day, plus snacks. Adult: When a pup matures into an adult, this does not necessarily mean that they should suddenly be given only one meal a day. Smaller dogs such as Toy Poodles and Miniatures often do best with 2 or even 3 meals per day. Standards have a bit more tolerance to a single dinnertime feeding, however many can also benefit from having food split up into two servings. Several snacks can be given in between meals and this is particularly helpful is a Poodle is a fast eater. How Much to Feed a Poodle Exact serving size varies quite a bit depending on the type of food. There is a big difference in calories between wet vs dry and low quality vs high quality. And, the amount of food that a Poodle should be eating depends on the dog's age, activity level, individual metabolism, and health status. Even the weather can play a role since dogs tend to eat a bit more in the winter and a bit less in the summer. In regard to calorie requirements, puppies need more calories per pound than their adult counterparts, approximately 40 to 55 calories per pound, daily, compared to adult dogs that need about 35 to 45 calories per pound, daily. S enior Poodles typically have slower metabolisms and reduced mobility and therefore usually require slightly fewer calories, in the 40 calorie per pound range. If you are feeding your Poodle a commercial food, follow the suggested feeding guidelines. These are usually pretty spot-on. Since these are based on both age and weight, do not estimate how much your Poodle weighs but rather know what this is within a pound or two. If you are feeding your Poodle homemade food, a rough guideline for serving size is 1 ounce of food for each 1 pound of body weight, daily. As you can imagine, this can vary quite a bit depending on the exact ingredients. Using the 1 to 1 rule as a starting point, what your Poodle consumes within 15 minutes is usually a good amount for each meal. Wet vs Dry If a Poodle had their way, most would opt for wet food. However, dry food is recommended since this is much better for the gums and teeth. In addition, dry kibble tends to be easier on the stomach and intestines and a diet of all wet canned food can lead to runny stools. Grain vs Grain-free Until relatively recently, there was not much debate on this subject; if a dog tended to have gastrointestinal or allergy issues when on a diet with grains, they were switched to a grain-free recipe. However, this changed when it was discovered that several dogs that were breeds not prone to dilated cardiomyopathy developed that particular heart disease and also happened to be fed grain-free kibble. Lots of pet parents immediately thought that they needed to change their dogs back to grains; however, many more studies need to be done. In fact, the most recent update from the Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University suggests that 'grain-free' alone may not be the issue at play. For now, it is theorized that a certain diet dubbed a BEG diet may be to blame. This stands for boutique small local brands with exotic meats non-traditional meats like alligator, bison, ostrich, venison, and kangaroo and grain-free along with peas, legumes, or potatoes as one of the top 5 ingredients. Currently there are no recalls of grain-free dog food brands and the FDA is still investigating any possible links including the BEG theory. If your Poodle does not do well with any grains at all, you may wish to stick to a brand that has traditional meats like chicken, turkey, or beef or a fish-based recipes. And, if you are not sure about which grains your Poodle may do okay with, you may wish to opt for wholesome non-wheat and non-gluten grains like rice brown or white , oatmeal, quinoa which is technically a seed. Exact recommendations for the best foods include both grain and grain-free options. Elements to Keep in Mind When Choosing Food for Your Poodle What to avoid: It's no wonder that pet parents have a difficult time navigating the many choices of dog foods in their quest to find the best brand to give their Poodle, there are a lot of ingredients to avoid: Artificial flavoring like MSG which can cause terrible allergic reactions. Artificial coloring. Some of the worst are Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 2, and Yellow 6 which are linked to very serious issues including neurological and behavioral issues like insomnia and hyperactivity and serious health issues including some cancers. Chemical preservatives. This can be tricky to avoid since these do not always need to be labeled; if these are added to protect 'protein meals' in low levels, you'll never see it listed as an ingredient. These are meats and animal parts deemed unfit for human consumption. Examples are lungs, spleen, spinal tissue, genitals, hooves, beaks, intestines, and more. Generic meats or oils. This can, by law, be any species of animal whatsoever and are usually 4-D animal parts: Sourced from dead, diseased, dying, or disabled zoo animals, farm animals, or even roadkill. These are very common in cheaper subpar brands and are inexpensive ingredients that are added only to plump up the food but offer little to no nutritional value. Examples of fillers include corn, soy, wheat middlings, peanut hulls, oat husks, and cereal grains. Ingestion of fillers is a contributing factor in coprophagia eating feces and is linked to malnutrition. High grain count. Though some wholesome grains may be desired next section , high levels of wheat or gluten can cause upset stomach issues and allergies. What to look for: Knowing what to avoid can help you identify some of the better brands though exact recommendations are below. This means zero artificial additives. Natural preservatives. Wholesome ingredients. For meats and proteins this includes chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, rabbit, beef, and many types of fish including whitefish, haddock, salmon, and cod. You'll also want your Poodle to have some vegetables and fruits which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Zero fillers. Every ingredient should serve the purpose of providing nutrients and never added simply to bulk up the recipe. The right balance of healthy grains. Though some Poodles will need to avoid all grains, most do very well with select non-wheat, non-gluten options including oatmeal, quinoa, and rice. Added extras. Next, we'll cover exact recommendations that fit all of the above criteria. Best Food for Poodles: Recommended Brands Please note that if you have not yet read ' Grain vs Grain-free ' section, you may wish to do so before continuing. Top recommend food with grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry. For larger miniatures and standards, you'll want to opt for their regular Complete Health. There are also puppy, adult, and senior formulas. All of these have no wheat, corn or other fillers, artificial coloring or flavoring, soy, meat by-products, or chemical preservatives, so you can feel very confident that your filling your Poodle's bowl with truly wholesome, healthy food. These recipes also have excellent levels of omega-3 fatty acids. And, this is made in the USA. Halo Natural Holisitc Dog Food. This top brand has found its niche by offering a purely holistic, organic recipe with non-GMO veggies and fruits and meats with no antibiotics, no hormones, and no factory farming. The protein base is chicken and liver, the two grains in this are oats and barley, and vegetables and fruits include peas, blueberries, cranberries, carrots, and sweet potato. All other ingredients are to naturally preserve the kibble or are vitamins and minerals. This particular recipe is for small breeds, however there is also an original for larger dogs. Halo is made in the USA. Top recommended food without grains: 1. Merrick is a great brand which offers this recipe for small breeds, like toy Poodles and another option for larger dogs which would include miniatures and standards. Protein bases include Texas beef, lamb, chicken, and salmon. There is no corn or other fillers, wheat, gluten, artificial additives, or chemical preservatives. And, there are excellent levels of omega-3 and both pre and probiotics. Merrick is also made in the USA. The CORE formula from Wellness is, by far, one of the very best grain-free foods on the market today. It hits very single checkbox of what you are ideally looking for in a food for your Poodle and it has some superior extras. There are excellent levels of glucosamine and chondroitin, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. There is both a small breed formula and an original formula for minis and standards as well as puppy recipes and a reduced fat option. Wellness is made in the USA. What to Feed Your Poodle if Home Cooking You will want to have a mix of protein, healthy grains, vegetables and fruits. Proteins can include beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, veal, and fish cod, flounder, salmon, whitefish. Vegetables can include sugar snap peas, green beans, lima beans, spinach, peas, zucchini, carrots, sweet potato, and regular potato. Fruits can include blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apple, and pear. Extras can include eggs, salmon oil, extra virgin olive oil, certain cheese with low levels of lactose Colby, Monterey Jack, Swiss cheese, and cottage cheese and plain whole white yogurt. Note that if you home cook, you will want to include a daily vitamin and mineral since it is near impossible for any combination of foods to offer a dog every nutrient that they need. Snacks Snacks and treats are also an important part of a dog's diet. Dry treats often labeled as baked or crunchy are best to tide over the appetite in between meals. Moist or chewy treats are best when used as training rewards and to reinforce good behavior. Rapid ingestion of food can lead to gas, vomiting, or upset stomach and is linked to killer bloat. Types of Nuts that a Poodle Can Eat - If you are snacking away on some nuts and want to share them with your Poodle, see which ones are safe and which are not. Poodle Begging Behavior - Giving into begging for table scraps or extra snacks contributes to this bad habit. See how to react if your Poodle won't stop begging. Overly Picky Poodles - Read how to address finicky eaters to make mealtime less stressful for both of you. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us.

Updated on 28 June Mini Goldendoodles are a smaller variety of the popular and larger Goldendoodle. These petite dogs are the result of breeding between a Golden Retriever and a Miniature Poodle. Mini Goldendoodles , like all the Doodle varieties, have proven popular with dog lovers worldwide thanks to their low-shedding coats. Their goofy personalities, inherited from the Golden Retriever breed, has results in social media stardom for some members of the cross breed. Mini Goldendoodles have an average size range of from 13 to 17 inches The Standard Goldendoodle have a size range of 17 and 20 inches. Mini Goldendoodles tend to weigh between 15 and 35 pounds Standard Goldendoodles will usually weigh between 15 and 35 pounds. Mini Goldendoodles could be more adept at apartment-living or city life considering their smaller size, especially if owners have limited space in a high rise or townhome. Willow is about 25lbs and is a pretty average size. We know a few Mini Goldendoodles that are in the low 30s and I believe they can go up to 35lbs. But it really depend on the dog. They require a lot of grooming to avoid mats. I brush my dog regularly and send him to the groomer every 6 weeks max to avoid him to be shaved. These small dogs are portable and versatile, so they can easily fit in a dedicated dog carrier or backpack, a doggie carseat and in a travel crate. Modern films have long showcased the caring, loving and loyal nature of the Golden Retriever. The Mini Goldendoodle may also inherit some of these traits, although their small size requires parents to educate their children on how to respectfully interact and play with these dogs. They are extremely family-friendly dogs. They love humans and pets alike. Many Mini Goldendoodle owners will take their dog to a groomer every few months for a trim — too. Mini Goldendoodles are a hypoallergenic breed. I am allergic to dogs as are my parents and none of us have any reaction to Willow. We have Willow groomed every 5 weeks. Price Mini Goldendoodles are often dubbed an example of a designer breed — so you can probably get the hint that these dogs are expensive to buy. Their cost fluctuate depending on the breeder, coat color , generation and size. The offspring of two active dog breeds traditionally used to hunt water fowl, Mini Goldendoodles will require a lot of exercise. We walk him and get him to the park as much as possible or he is a complete terror at night. Separation anxiety Separation anxiety can affect any dog irrespective of breed or mix. With their dog at home alone, their separation anxiety rises to the surface in a variety of possible ways. They may bark, howl or whine, they could resort to destructive behaviours such as chewing and digging, or in some extreme cases, do their business inside the home. Mini Goldendoodles are prone to separation anxiety, although every dog is different. I would say it depend on the dog. Barking Poodles are sometimes dubbed a loud breed, with the tendency to bark at anything. This is a trait that a Mini Goldendoodle could potentially inherit. This could result in your dog sounding the alarm if they notice a squirrel outside, a neighbour arriving at their home, the mailman coming to your door or any unfamiliar noise. If your Mini Goldendoodle does excessively bark, you could work on it with a dog behaviorist. While this is a trait that some Mini Goldendoodle owners encountered, not all members of the cross breed will have this trait. Sometimes called a Goldenpoo or Goldenoodle, the Miniature Goldendoodle is created by crossing a miniature or toy Poodle with a Golden Retriever. The result is a mild, friendly, family dog that looks like a teddy bear come to life. Their energy level matches the Poodle genes while their gentleness and willingness to please is reflective of the Golden Retriever. They are devoted friends who crave cuddles and will follow you around just to be near you. They are smart dogs with a silly streak. They are loving and loyal and gentle enough to make good playmates for kids. Their intelligence makes them easy to train. This breed has a happy disposition and a friendly, affectionate nature. They crave close contact at all times, and they can develop separation anxiety if you leave them alone too long. They typically get along well with other dogs and other pets. They are eager, excitable, and enthusiastic about outings of all kinds. Their heads are rounded and their ears are floppy and wide-set. Their eyes are large and expressive and noses are typically black. Their muzzles are short to medium with a scissor bite. They have long and fluffy or feathered tails. Mini Goldendoodles have wavy to curly hair and they do not have an undercoat, making them a great choice for people with allergies. While they are considered hypoallergenic, some allergy-sufferers may still experience symptoms. They can be: Black. Appearing in the mids, the mini goldendoodle is the result of breeding a miniature poodle and a golden retriever. Designed to take on the smarts of the poodle and the gentle disposition of the golden retriever, these dogs are intelligent and active, with a mild temperament. Poodles originated in Germany and were historically used for hunting and retrieval. They gained popularity among the French, where they were refined into three additional sizes — standard, miniature and toy. While these dogs became associated with high society, they were also known as affectionate and easy to train. As working dogs and loyal companions, golden retrievers have since become one of the most popular purebred dogs in America. Fast forward to present day, and the mini goldendoodle — having inherited traits from both breeds — is a gentle, loving canine that is intelligent and easy to train. Due to the inheritance of the long-haired golden retriever and the curly poodle, these dogs are a ball of fluff as puppies. Not only are they adorable, but they also have a teddy-bear appearance that makes them irresistible to would-be pet parents. Mini goldendoodles can vary in size depending on which breed characteristics they take on. However, mini goldendoodles are generally well proportioned with large, expressive eyes, a rounded head, and a short to medium-sized muzzle. They also have floppy ears and a long, fluffy, or feathered tail like the golden retriever. What Size Is a Mini Goldendoodle? As a hybrid dog, mini goldendoodles range in size and weight. Generally, though, MGs can weigh anywhere from 15 to 35 pounds and reach a height of between 13 to 30 inches. The size of a mini goldendoodle can also depend on the height and weight of its parents. The coat of a mini goldendoodle changes as it ages. As a puppy, the coat is fluffy, maturing into wavy, flat, or curly fur. However, if your goldendoodle takes on more characteristics of the golden retriever, its fur can also be straight, too. They also come in colors ranging from golden to red to dark brown. Mini goldendoodles are known for their gentle and mild-tempered natures. These dogs are eager to please and are loyal, sociable, and incredibly playful. Both poodles and golden retrievers are also known for their smarts, so MGs take on this trait, making them easy to train. Are Mini Goldendoodles Affectionate? Mini goldendoodles are affectionate animals. These dogs love a good cuddle, as well as spending plenty of time with their family. Like most dogs, MGs also show affectionate states through facial or body language and through their wagging tails. However, due to their excitability, these dogs may not stay long on your lap! Mini goldendoodles are a fantastic family pet. Not only are they great around kids, but they are also loving and affectionate towards their family. Mini goldendoodles also love to play, which is great for rambunctious children! However, like most dogs, early socialization and obedience training are important for ensuring they behave appropriately around kids. Are Mini Goldendoodles Aggressive? These dogs also get along well with kids and other animals. While some people mistakenly think mini goldendoodles are aggressive when they nip or chew during their teething stage, this is actually part of their normal development. If this occurs, positive reinforcement and reward-based training can remedy these behaviors. Do Mini Goldendoodles Bark a Lot? They may bark at the occasional stranger or if they want your attention, but generally, these dogs are not known for their vocality. Are Mini Goldendoodles Intelligent? Mini goldendoodles are bred from two very intelligent breeds — poodles and golden retrievers. Therefore, this hybrid breed takes on the smarts of both genetic counterparts. The intelligence of mini goldendoodles make them fun to be around; however, beware that they can get into mischief due to their smarts! Keeping their minds stimulated with treat puzzles can be good ways to curb this behavior. Are Mini Goldendoodles Easy to Train? Because mini goldendoodles are intelligent and eager to please, they are also easy to train. The only thing to be mindful of is that their playful energy can create short attention spans; therefore, keep training sessions short rather than long and drawn out. Like most dogs, a combination of positive reinforcement and reward-based training will go a long way. Are Mini Goldendoodles Energetic? Mini goldendoodles have plenty of energy! Regular walks each day mixed with playtime should be enough to drain their energy. One way to think about this breed is that they enjoy short bursts of energy rather than long marathon sessions. Due to their smaller size, mini goldendoodles make great apartment dogs. These dogs also shed very little and are fairly quiet when it comes to barking. Combined with their even temperaments, these dogs are good apartment dwellers. Are Mini Goldendoodles Good Watchdogs? These dogs are more likely to befriend an intruder than to attack one! Mini goldendoodles make fantastic therapy dogs because they are soft, affectionate, and intelligent. However, they are only suited to work as therapy or emotional service animals because they are on the smaller side. Individuals looking for service dogs or therapy dogs who require stronger, sturdier animals for physical support or guidance, for instance, may want a bigger breed like a large standard goldendoodle. How to Care for a Mini Goldendoodle? Mini goldendoodles are fairly easy to care for. When it comes to exercise, make sure they get at least 20 to 30 minutes each day. Therefore, long hours alone or stuck in a kennel are not good for this breed as they can develop separation anxiety. The best way to care for a mini goldendoodle is to keep them active and include them in family activities. While mini goldendoodles only shed lightly and sometimes not at all , there is some grooming required to keep their coat healthy. As an adult, mini goldendoodles should be brushed about once a week, but this also depends on how often you get their hair trimmed. In terms of bathing, these dogs only need the occasional bath. You should also trim their nails once or twice per month unless your dog is active and wearing them down naturally. Lastly, because mini goldendoodles have floppy ears, check these regularly for redness, discharge, or odors, which could be a sign of infection. Do Mini Goldendoodles Shed? Poodle breeds hardly shed, but golden retrievers do, so the shed level of your mini goldendoodle will depend on which genetic traits they take on. Generally, though, your MG will be a low to non-shedder. What Should a Mini Goldendoodle Eat? Like all dogs, mini goldendoodles require a high-nutrient diet that has a good balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. This could include a mix of high-quality kibble, dehydrated dog food, or fresh food. Aim for around 2 cups of food per day; this may need adjusting depending on the size and activity level of your dog. Mini goldendoodles are prone to a number of genetic diseases outlined below which come from the poodle and the golden retriever side. However, not all MGs will develop these conditions, and some are treatable with medication, supplements, and diet. Frequent visits to your vet and giving your dog joint supplements like glucosamine and omega-3 oils can prevent future pain. Patella luxation: abnormal formations of the joints, also resulting in pain when walking. Progressive retinal atrophy: golden retrievers are prone to PRA, which involves a gradual deterioration of the retina in the eye, which can cause night blindness and loss of daytime vision. Since this is an inheritable condition, the best prevention is to visit your vet regularly. See your vet for more info. Mini goldendoodles live for around 10 to 15 years. Are Mini Goldendoodles Expensive? What you want to avoid is potential scams or unethical breeders that promise one thing and deliver another. Looking online is one option, especially if they provide reviews or customer feedback. You could also ask for a referral or check with your local vet, as they may have the details of a recommended breeder. When visiting a breeder, a quality one will tend to offer things like: Transparent documentation e. Aside from going through a breeder, you can also adopt a mini goldendoodle from a local shelter or rescue. Failing that, check online and see if there are mini goldendoodles that are up for adoption. Are Mini Goldendoodles Purebred? Mini goldendoodles are not purebred. As a cross between a golden retriever and a miniature poodle, they are considered hybrid dogs. Due to their easy going nature and trainability, mini goldendoodles are great pets for first-time owners. These dogs are playful and eager to please, making it easy for inexperienced pet parents to train and live with them. Just make sure you learn the basics of obedience training, socialization, and positive reinforcement techniques. So, how do you know if a mini goldendoodle is right for you? Before you decide, evaluate whether your disposition and lifestyle can accommodate this breed. But mini goldendoodles are a wonderful breed to live with, especially for families. These playful and affectionate dogs are a lot of fun and can bring an abundance of joy to your household. With the right exercise and loving care, a mini goldendoodle will be your loving companion for life. Standard Goldendoodles can weigh anywhere between 50 and 90 pounds. Personality The place where the Goldendoodle puppy really excels is its personality. Its breed is known for being simultaneously intelligent and adoring. A Goldendoodle puppy is very sociable, which makes them perfect animals for households with children and other animals or pets, even cats. Just like the Labradoodle, this breed requires correct socialization to ensure they get used to different sights, sounds and smells during puppyhood. This means taking your Goldendoodle to plenty of doggy-friendly parks so they can meet canine friends and introducing them to other people. Our Goldendoodle puppies for sale are fully trained Doodles, so you can focus on the fun bits, like bonding, eating food and playing. These dogs prefer to live in a house with a gated backyard where they can get regular exercise breaks. Do They Like to Play? Goldendoodle Puppy Training These clever dogs are perfect for first-time dog owners because Goldendoodles love to please and take great pride in learning new skills. Are Goldendoodles Intelligent? Both of its poodle and golden retriever parent breeds are known for their intelligence and trainability, and Goldendoodles have inherited this breed trait. This means the person training a Goldendoodle needs to be strong-willed, firm and consistent — but never harsh or aggressive. Much like a poodle, Doodles are sensitive dogs, and positive reinforcement is a must to bring out the best in them. How Obedient Are They? Goldendoodle pups adore human company, and making their pet parents happy brings them genuine satisfaction. As such, correct puppy training produces a highly obedient and loyal adult Goldendoodle. Older adults, people with disabilities and individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders can benefit significantly from the warmth and sweetness of these adorable Goldendoodle pups. Are They Easy to Train? Doodle puppies can be mischievous and cheeky, but aggression is practically unheard of. So as long as you treat them with the same gentle respect they offer, a Goldendoodle is one of the easiest dog breeds to train. Goldendoodles have loads of energy and require regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and calm temperament. A Goldendoodle need a moderately high level of outdoor activity — usually a minimum of 30 minutes, but ideally one hour, of moderate to vigorous exercise per day will keep Goldendoodle puppies at their best. Unlike puppy mills, all good puppy and dog breeders provide a certificate that shows health clearances. At Pride and Prejudoodles, our tests cover common health conditions. As such, you have peace of mind when purchasing your new puppy from us. How Long Do Goldendoodles Live? Goldendoodles live for between 10 and 15 years. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Goldendoodle puppies for adoption. Sept 14, Happy Thursday! Thanks so much for visiting our site! We think that our smaller golden doodles are the perfect family addition! We absolutely love the temperament of golden retrievers, but not so much the size and the shedding. Our goal is to give you a puppy with a great temperament, in a smaller size, without all of the shedding. We would love to help your family adopt one of our mini or toy Goldendoodles. We want to make this process as much fun as we can! Our deposits are refundable for any reason for up to two years. After 18 years of raising mini golden doodles, we have learned that the daily personal interaction with our dogs and the puppies, leads to a more well rounded and well adjusted puppy. We raise F1 mini doodles, F1b mini doodles and F1b toys. For those with more severe allergies, this may be the way to go. .Our minis average pounds and our toys average pounds full grown. You can visit our photo gallery to see pictures of our past and present puppies! There are hundreds and hundreds of pictures in the photo gallery so get comfortable!!! Reach out to us anytime! Our farms have lots of room to run and a creeks to play in! With our kids, our nieces and nephews and extended families, the puppies get lots of love, playtime and socialization. This allows them to be more well adjusted little puppies when they go to their new homes. We have Mini Goldendoodle Puppies Available! Sept 14, We have puppies!! Puppy Picks happen on the day that the puppies get to go home. This is so that families can better see the temperaments of the puppies, making it easier for them to choose the right puppy for their family. Some families are looking for a couch potato, some for a more active doodle to run or hike with. We will for sure help you during the picking process, whether in person or with FaceTime. Families can send a refundable deposit to hold their picking spot on a litter, then come on Puppy Pick Day to choose and take their puppy home. We post new photos in the photo gallery every weekend, so check that out! We wait until that day so that the puppies are old enough to be able to see their little personalities. The deposits are fully refundable for up to 2 years. If families would rather wait on a future litter… they will go on the waiting list. Your puppy can then be driven to you or we can meet you somewhere in between. We can also ship your puppy via American Airlines if the temperature is between 20 and 82 degrees, or we can recommend a flight nanny to fly with your puppy in cabin. You can of course remain on the waiting list longer than two years, if you want to keep passing on litters. .Be sure to contact us for our current pricing. Our mini goldendoodle puppies come with a 2 year health guarantee against genetic issues. Should something arise in those 2 years, we will cover the cost of treatment up to the cost of the puppy. We know that parting with a family member would be impossible… All this said, our mini golden doodles have been so incredibly healthy. Our vet is a HUGE fan of mini doodles. I post fun and exciting things…. You can like our Facebook page where lots of our families are posting great pictures and videos of their puppies in their new homes! There are links to Instagram, Twitter and Facebook at the top right corner of this page!! We welcome families to come visit our farm to meet us, the parents and of course the mini goldendoodle puppies. We love to show off how we raise our puppies and how our moms and dads live here, and they of course love meeting new people! Besides that, we know that getting a puppy is a huge deal and getting to see where they come from is very important! Be sure to visit our photo gallery to see hundreds of pictures of our puppies in their new home! You can see the different coats and colors of our puppies and who the parents are of each puppy. Knowing which of our earlier puppies you like helps us to know what you would like your puppy to look like. Be sure to like our Facebook page too! Life Span Did You Know? Although this breed is very popular, it is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club. As long as they are well-socialized, Miniature Goldendoodles tend to make excellent family companions. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although they will alert you of strangers at the door, they tend to warm up quickly as they are more interested in making friends and receiving attention. Mini Goldendoodles are highly adaptable dogs. Their smaller size makes them a great fit for apartment living or for bigger homes with yards where they can run. As long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention, they can adapt well. These little dogs tend to do well in just about any climate. However, like any dog, they are sensitive to heat. Due to their smaller size, you may need to gear up with some dog-friendly winter gear when temperatures start falling. Because this dog breed is loyal and people-oriented, they love to be in your company and do not like being left alone for long periods of time. This means they can be prone to developing separation anxiety if you do not work with them on it early on. Instead, make sure your new Mini Goldendoodle puppy has an active role in your life. If you do need to leave them alone for a bit, make sure they have some comforting toys or challenging puzzles to keep them from getting bored. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests and clearances that have been done. The Mini Goldendoodles is a highly intelligent dog that picks up on things quickly and is eager to please. They tend to be sensitive to tone of voice as well. As long as training is consistent and focused on positive praise and reward, a Mini Goldendoodle will strive to be obedient and impress you and tends to excel at almost any task. These traits make the Mini Goldendoodle one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Daily brushing is recommended to remove tangles and prevent mats. Bathing is occasional and can often be relegated to the dog groomer that is recommended you visit every weeks. The groomer can help handle some of this during visits, but you will still need to do some maintenance at home between visits. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed help prevent ear infections. Daily brushing, plus cleanings at the vet as needed, is good dental care for dogs and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Although the parents of this breed have a lot of energy, a Mini Goldendoodle tends to sit in a more moderate activity range. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are usually enough for them. But, they are also likely to match their energy level to yours, so be prepared for some bursts of energy as well as plenty of cuddling on the couch. Fully-grown Mini Goldendoodles usually stand inches tall at the shoulder. A Miniature Goldendoodle puppy can vary in size based on the generation of the dog. The result is generally a dog that will range from pounds. Looking at the size of the parents for an F1 or F1-B puppy can be a good indication of what size to expect in a fully-grown Miniature Goldendoodle. Mini Goldendoodles generally live for years on average. Featured Mini Goldendoodle Article.