northern california labrador puppies

This is one of the hardest parts of my job because I love all of our babies. We take deposits to reserve your spot in the 'pick order' once our litters are successfully on the ground. Our pups go to you only after thorough check ups by licensed Veterinarians. We highly recommend you have your puppy spayed or neutered by 6 months of age. Get In Touch I understand that your pets are part of your family and I give them the same care and attention that I provide for my own animals. Home: Services Our list changes periodically so that we can produce the best Labrador. Cannon is currently one of our three studs. Picture albums of both can be seen on FaceBook. We perform genetic tests as well as OFA skeletal exams on our dogs to help eliminate certain diseases that we don't want to pass to our puppies. Not only does Twix possess the beauty and fabulous demeanor of a great AKC labrador, her loyalty and willingness to please is unmatched. She passes these traits onto her puppies as well. Her daughter, KODA, has now replaced her in the whelping arena. Please follow us on Facebook for current pictures, videos, albums and daily updates. Get in Touch WindFields Labradors. Go To WindFields!!! Use tab to navigate through the menu items. We are currently located in beautiful Georgia, but formerly from Minnesota, the "Land of 10, Lakes. Our dogs and puppies are family raised and play with our children daily. We breed only quality puppies with the hopes to better the breed. Our intention is to breed English Lab puppies that will qualify to be working dogs- therapy dogs, service dogs, hunting companion, etc. All of the litters are registered with the AKC and come to you up-to-date on vaccinations and dewormings. We're licensed and inspected annually. We provide the best care possible, as suggested by our trusted vets. We can also assist you in arranging transportation for your new baby if you do not live within driving distance. Take a look at our Available and Upcoming Litters pages and be sure to call or email with any questions. We offer a Lifetime Warranty! If you would like to visit our home, please read our Visitation Policy. Thank you for giving us a chance at becoming your trusted Labrador Retriever Breeder! Northern Lakes Labradors. Dogs are great for the whole family. They teach children responsibility, offer unconditional love, and provide years of laughter. When you decide to add a dog to your family, you might as well get the best of the best—a Labrador retriever puppy from Silver and Charcoal Kennels. Our Mississippi Labrador retriever breeding program delivers puppies to Georgia and all over the country. We aim to provide every family who wants one with the puppy of their dreams. As an established professional Labrador retriever breeder, no one is better equipped to do that than we are. Silver Labrador Retriever Breeder in Georgia Labrador retrievers are known to be intelligent, friendly, gentle, loving, and beautiful dogs. We breed our Labs to embody all those traits. Our silver, champagne, and charcoal Labradors make excellent hunting dogs, rescue dogs, service dogs, and family companions. They grow to have stable temperaments, high intelligence, and fun and affectionate personalities. We complete genetic testing for our dogs and deliver every puppy with AKC registration, a month hip guarantee, and up-to-date vaccinations. Our pups have impressive pedigrees, with bloodlines that go back decades, and Sires with Field Trial Championships and Senior Titles. With their quality of health, your Silver and Charcoal Kennels pup is sure to be around to love you for many years. Once a puppy becomes available, you will be able to take them home at eight weeks old. You can pick them up or we will drive them to you in Georgia. The newest, furriest member of your family awaits you. Get in touch with us today to learn more about or reserve a Labrador retriever puppy from Silver and Charcoal Kennels! Questions about our puppies? Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. The Labrador Retriever is possibly the most beloved dog around, and these active, friendly pups are one of the most popular family dogs. Get ready to find your new best friend! The 10 Labrador Retriever Breeders in Georgia 1. All puppies sold are on Limited AKC registration and are available at 8 weeks of age with up-to-date vaccinations and worming. Parent dogs are also screened for PRA and exercise induced collapse. Before they ever reach your home, puppies will have been introduced to water, whistles, birds, retrieving, and simulated gunfire. They come microchipped and with current vaccinations and worming, plus will have had their dew claws removed. Your puppy will be sent to its new home with a written warranty, along with a starter kit, including food samples and care instructions. They use the Puppy Culture program, an approach based on science, for training and socialization. They do not breed champagne, silver, or charcoal Labradors. They also do not sell on a first come, first serve basis but instead are dedicated to getting to know potential owners through a two-step process. Puppies are sold on Limited Registration, and there is usually a 6—12 month wait for one. They have a stringent screening process to find the best homes and owners for their puppies. They comply with AKC rules and regulations and offer yellow, chocolate, and black Labradors. To become one of the top breeders in the Southeast, they routinely bring in show champion lines. Horizon ships to all major airports. They do not allow visits but are active on social media, so you can check out plenty of pictures and reviews from other buyers. Puppies are exposed to people and sound to get them socialized and introduced to crates to make crate training easier for you. Puppies come with Limited Registration and a 2-year genetic health guarantee. Their puppies are family-raised, so are socialized via plenty of playtime with children and adults. Parent dogs come from strong Champion Pedigrees or are Champions of Conformation, plus are given clearances for health before breeding. Puppies come with AKC registration, proper vaccinations, worming, and have their dew claws removed. This breeder also offers a lifetime guarantee up to 10 years if your pet is kept on the same food they were started on. Plus, if you find yourself unable to keep your pet at any time in the future, they can help you place it in a new home. They were so easy to work with and we highly recommend them to anyone looking for a beautiful lab to add to their family! Puppies are screened for genetic and congenital issues and given proper vaccinations, flea and heartworm medication, and intestinal parasite prevention. They typically have puppies available in spring and fall. Related Read:. These predictable, durable, steady breeds, like Labs and Goldens, are great with kids and offer the whole family more dog to love. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for almost forty years. Our industry setting Puppy Guarantee makes buying one of our pure-bred Labrador retrievers one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Labrador Retriever owners from around the country. Visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-the-minute puppy information at .Located near Laurel Hill, NC, we deliver our world class Labrador retriever puppies and adults to locations as far away as Alaska. We can easily deliver our guaranteed Labs to your location in or around Athens. For details, call Woody or Judi at .Labrador Retriever Puppies and Children In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Labrador retriever can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Many other life lessons are learned by living around a wonderful dog. Some of them are learning to be gentle, benefits of companionship, importance of faithfulness, the safety and security of home and appreciation of the needs of others. Above all the lessons, dogs are just great fun. They can make us laugh, even after a terrible day. They are always there wanting a reassuring hug. How noble—and cool—is that? Be sure to read the rest of her article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client! These predictable, durable, steady breeds, like Labs and Goldens, are great with kids and offer the whole family more dog to love. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for almost forty years. Our industry setting Puppy Guarantee makes buying one of our pure-bred Labrador retrievers one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Labrador Retriever owners from around the country. Visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-the-minute puppy information at .Located near Laurel Hill, NC, we deliver our world class Labrador retriever puppies and adults to locations as far away as Alaska. We can easily deliver our guaranteed Labs to your location in or around Atlanta. For details, call Woody or Judi at .Labrador Retriever Puppies and Children In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Labrador retriever can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: Dogs are better than popping pills or drinking elixers. Children with dogs for pets have been found to have lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and fewer overall physical complaints than those without dogs. In fact, there are several diseases where dogs have been used to help those who have the disease. Two of these are: rheumatoid arthritis and emotional disturbance stemming from cases of severe abuse. Samuel B. Be sure to read the rest of her article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client!

The Dangers of Too Much or Too Little Exercise Too little exercise can result in the development of many behavioral and health issues in your Bernedoodle. Physically, obesity in dogs is a major problem and is linked to serious and potentially deadly threats like kidney disease, heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. Behaviorally, a lack of sufficient activity can also be the underlying cause of many problems like excessive barking, counter-surfing, destructiveness, and so much more. The bones and joints of your Bernedoodle puppy are still growing and developing until they reach their full height and weight. Putting too much stress on them during these formative months can result in life-long joint and bone issues. Age The age of your dog is the single biggest factor that determines their Bernedoodle exercise requirements. Senior dogs, on the other hand, may not have the same energy or stamina they did when they were younger. Both older and younger dogs require plenty of rest throughout the day. Size Large dogs, like the Standard Bernedoodle, develop slowly and, as a result, can take a long time to reach their adult height and weight. It can take a Standard Bernedoodle between 18 months and 3 years to stop growing, but it usually averages around 2 years. Smaller dogs like the Mini Bernedoodle or Toy Bernedoodle will finish growing faster and be able to handle longer periods of exercise sooner. The Miniature Bernedoodle will usually hit its full grown size at around 18 months. The Toy Bernedoodle a. Personality On average, Bernedoodles are a moderately active breed. However, like humans, every dog has its own unique personality and temperament. Some Bernedoodles are more relaxed while others are higher-energy. Oftentimes, genetics play a role and you can get an idea of how high-energy your puppy will be based on the temperament of their parents. Keep on the lookout for signs your dog is getting too much or too little exercise… If your dog is getting too much exercise, they may be hesitant to go outside or may choose to lie down instead of walking. They may also show physical symptoms like limping or sickness. Always watch closely for excessive panting as that may be a sign that they need to rest. As they say, a tired dog is an obedient dog. Still confused as to how much exercise your Bernedoodle puppy should be getting? If they need more activity, you can repeat these 10 minute sessions times per day. Every month after that you can add another 5 minutes to that length until you hit 30 minutes, times per day at month 6. Mini Bernedoodle Puppy Exercise Requirements During your first month with your Miniature Bernedoodle at 8 weeks old, limit their exercise to 10 minutes at a time, times per day. You can slowly increase this time to 15 minutes at 4 months old, 20 minutes at 5 months old, and 25 minutes at 6 months old. Keep these 25 minute sessions, times per day until your Mini Bernedoodle has their first birthday. For the next 6 months keep their walks or activity in minute increments, times per day. As such, you need to take ramping up their exercise very slowly so as not to hurt their joints and bones. For months 4 and 5, you can increase their exercise sessions to 15 minute intervals. When they hit 6 months old, you can start exercising 20 minutes a day, times per day until their first birthday. From 12 months to 18 months you can increase their sustained exercise to 25 minute periods. From 18 months until 2 years the safe range is minutes, times per day. Finally, at 2 years old they are considered an adult and can go the full recommendation of minutes, times per day. Bring that down just a tad when they become a senior to minute intervals. Exercising is more than just walks! Just as important as how long your puppy exercises for is what type of exercise they do. Vigorous, high-impact exercise, even for short periods of time, can result in bone and joint problems. Here are some common, puppy-safe exercise options as well as some common ideas that are dangerous. Playtime with Other Puppies — Other puppies will have similar staminas and this is a great activity for socialization as well. If your puppy plays with older dogs, they may be tempted to go too hard trying to keep up, so make sure you are supervising carefully. Always walk at a slow or moderate pace and remember that stopping to sniff is good mental stimulation! Jumping or Climbing — Whether this is climbing staircases or jumping off couches, these activities can take a huge, negative toll on their joints. Catching Frisbees or Balls in the Air — Constantly running and jumping to catch these toys will be rough on their developing body. Luckily, there are plenty of creative ways to sneak in some fun physical and mental exercise for your dog! Snuffle balls and snuffle mats allow your dog to search for their food using their sense of smell. This is a great way to relax and calm your dog. There are plenty of snuffle toy options available on Amazon or Etsy. If you prefer to DIY, here are our step-by-step instructions for making your own snuffle ball! Hide and Seek A simple game of hide and seek allows your Bernedoodle both physical and mental exercise as they search around the house to find you! Start easy and eventually find more challenging locations as your pup gets to be an expert at this game! Tug of War This classic game that can be played indoors or outdoors will help your meet the Bernedoodle exercise requirements. How Far Can a Bernedoodle Walk? In general, Bernedoodle puppies under 2 years old should avoid walks longer than 1 or 2 miles in length. Once their stamina is built up, adult Bernedoodles can walk miles or even longer. Remember, a mile is more strenuous for Toy and Mini Bernedoodles than it is for Standard Bernedoodles since their strides are smaller and it will take more steps. The balancing act of getting your dog enough activity without putting stress on their growing body is a constant struggle. More About Bernedoodles…. Do Bernedoodles Like to Run? Bernedoodles are a social and friendly dog. They enjoy running, playing and hiking. Do Bernedoodles like to run? Yes, Bernedoodles like to run! The traits of a Poodle Cross Breed are typically inherited from either of the parent breeds. Both Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles can enjoy running. Small dogs enjoy brief runs but tend to have less endurance than larger dogs. The majority of Bernedoodles are medium to large in size. On the other hand dogs that are too large or too small tend to not suit pounding the pavement with their owners. A medium to large dog like a Bernedoodle can be a great running companion. Breeders and owners report that Bernedoodles have a moderate exercise requirement. Bernedoodle fast puppy facts from Oodle Life YouTube. Some Bernedoodles make great running companions. Do Bernedoodles like to run long distances? A few Bernedoodles even make great longer distance running companions. Most dogs enjoy running. The volume and distance of running will depend on the size and temperament of the individual Bernedoodle. Once they grow up Bernedoodles can love to run with their owners. Take it easy when they are puppies! A Bernedoodle can make a great running companion, but there is no guarantee. Even though it is likely that your Bernedoodle will enjoy running, the distance the dog will be comfortable with cannot be predicted. There are other breeds of dogs that are more commonly associated with being excellent longer distance running companions. Amongst the Poodle Cross breeds, many people have running success with larger Goldendoodles as a running companion. Animal Planet Rescuing a dog from a shelter is a noble and great idea. Local rescues often have a great idea about dogs who have a high energy requirement or are suited for long distance running companionship. Do Bernedoodles Like to Run and Hunt? Bernedoodles are not an ideal hunting dog. Their temperament on average is not ideal typically for a hunting dog. Poodles are originally bred as duck hunting retriever animals. The majority of modern Poodles however are bred as companion dogs. Much of the temperament and features that made them hunting companions are no longer present. I did ask on a Bernedoodle owners forum, and one owner did report that their Bernedoodle puppy a very large four-year-old was an excellent hunting companion. He said the puppy took to it from a very young age and mimicked the older dogs in the family. So every Bernedoodle could be a hunting dog. It is not the first, second or third breed you should consider. Do Bernedoodles Like to Hike? Bernedoodles LOVE to hike! They are moderately active dog and enjoy hiking and trails. You of course need to take plenty of water and snacks. You also need to learn the limits of your dogs strength, and never exceed what is reasonable. Remember your loyal Bernedoodles motivation might be strong and lead to over exertion. When your Bernedoodle puppy is young be cautious when hiking to prevent overexertion or injury. Save the arduous hikes for when it is an adult often vets recommend 1. Bernedoodles are comfortable with moderately warm weather. They also love the cooler months and you can give your Bernedoodle snow shoes! Do Bernedoodles Like The Snow? Bernedoodles tend to love the snow. They descend from the Bernese Mountain Dog which are traditionally found in the Swiss mountains. It is common for Bernedoodles to take to the snow like a duck to water. Like any dog you should be careful to avoid prolonged cold exposure without respite, and consider snow shoes or booties in extremely cold weather. Bernedoodles enjoy snow play and even hiking in the snow. If running or playing fetch, be careful on ice. Larger dogs like the Bernedoodle can hurt joints if they slip and fall. Do Bernedoodles Like to Swim? People often wonder if Bernedoodles like to swim. I surveyed Bernedoodle owners to find out how their puppies enjoyed water. You can check out the results of my Bernedoodle swimming survey here! In general — yes Bernedoodles do enjoy swimming! One owner reported that their Bernedoodle puppy loved the water and swimming in the pool with their children so much — that they were worried about withdrawal in winter! As we know Bernedoodles are moderately active dogs — and playing in the water is a great energy burning activity. Sadie the Bernedoodle by Chris Michel on Flickr. CC-by-SA 2. Bernedoodles are not particularly high energy. They do need around minutes of exercise every day. I asked a bunch of Bernedoodle owners and the amount of exercise time did vary. The general consensus was that either deliberate exercise or yard play of up to one hour was most common. Bernedoodles who are consistently active throughout the day tend to need less specialised exercise. Do Bernedoodles Like to Run Conclusions If you are thinking about getting a Bernedoodle you need to know as much as possible about this unique and super loyal! Poodle Mix breed. Alternative check out these Bernedoodle resources. Video: Bernedoodle Puppy Obedience Training Types Bernedoodles have been differentiated into three different types, depending upon their sizes: The Toy Bernedoodle: Those that weigh between 10 and 24 pounds, with height 10 — 14 inches. The Miniature Bernedoodle: Those with weight between 25 and 49 pounds, and height 15 — 20 inches. The Standard Bernedoodle: Those that weigh 50 pounds or more, and standing 21 inches and above. Temperament and Behavior Bernedoodles are responsive and loving. They love their family and are even good with the children. They are intelligent and social. This makes them fit to be a good family dog. However, they have a very relaxed temperament, with a moderate energy level. The dog would stay next to its owner while he is watching television, cooking, or strolling on the terrace, thus making them a great companion. Though, they are goofy and playful and are good at swimming, fetching and running, and would constantly amuse its family. Bernedoodles have a special fondness for cold weather. Care Exercise Bernedoodles need regular exercise. Because these dogs have a laid-back temperament, they do need regular exercise, but to a moderate amount, to burn down their calories for a sound health and mental fitness. Take them out for walks for 30 minutes to one hour daily. You can also utilize their fondness for running and playing by taking them out for jogging, and allowing them to play in an enclosed yard. Participate in games like throw and fetch, or allow them to swim. In short, keep them engaged in regular activities. Grooming The amount of shedding directly depends on the type of coat your dog has inherited. Those that have straighter type are prone to shed comparatively more. But they do not need frequent brushing to prevent matting. However, at times, you might want to enjoy the bonding time of brushing. You can clip your dog every months. If your dog is curly, it sheds very less or nominal. So brush it at least four to five times a week to prevent matting. Also, take them to professional grooming once in months. But begin grooming only after your puppy is done with its complete set of vaccinations by age 3 to 4 months. Its ears are hairy. So keep an eye for infections, redness or rashes. Health Problems As a very new breed, little is known about the health of the bernedoodle. No serious diseases or breed-specific issues have been reported. In fact, they are healthier than their parent breeds. But general dog health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, eye and skin problems including hot spots, allergies, etc. Training Considering their intelligence and interactive nature, your puppies would briskly pick up all that you teach them. However, if bernedoodles not trained properly, they can easily become neurotic and hyper. Teach them the difference between right and wrong. But train them in a gentle way. So the same diet routine is okay with your dog as well. However, if you are making your own recipe, you can choose rice both white and brown as a single protein source. They are picky eaters. For a change in taste, try variations adding yogurt, boiled sweet potato or pumpkin. These are a good option. Other sources for both flavor and health, serve your dog with cottage cheese, tofu, baby food, or boiled chicken or turkey, boiled liver, boiled hamburger. They can also make good watchdogs. Credit: Bennilover Bernedoodles are loving, intelligent, sociable dogs with a moderate energy level. In many ways, having a moderate energy level is good because these dogs are fairly easy to train. The more energy a dog has, the more it wants to play and learn, and this definitely fits the definition of the Bernedoodle. Bernedoodles have a mellow, laid-back temperament and need regular exercise for a few different reasons. Regular exercise helps keep their minds stimulated, which results in less boredom for the dog and less destructive behavior. They also need regular exercise to wear off the food they eat and maintain a healthy weight and good health. Because they love running and playing, the Bernedoodle owner can implement many activities into their daily exercise regimen. How much exercise does a Bernedoodle need? As a puppy, a good rule of thumb is 5 minutes of exercise for each month in age they are, up to twice per day. So at 3 months it would be 15 minutes 2x per day, 6 months is 30 minutes 2x per day and so on. Bernedoodles are not extremely high energy dogs but their desire to be close to their owners will likely keep them going. Jogging or biking for any significant stretch might be too much for a smaller puppy. Free play in the yard with some toys. Let them run and play and have fun with them! If things get too exciting try and calm them a bit. Long stretches of running and really vigorous play at the puppy stage might be too much Walking around the house is always fine for a pup, you can guide him or her along with you to get some exercise. Climbing stairs, hills, or really long stretches of strenuous activity, you need to watch for signs they are ok. A fun game of fetch or tug of war is a popular way to get in some exercise with puppies around the world! Again watch for signs of too much. Puppies are still growing and developing. Too much can put strain on joints at this age. Activities Bernedoodles Typically Enjoy They do tend to have a stubborn streak from time to time, so finding activities the Bernedoodle enjoys will make exercise time more fun for you and the dog. Although there are few activities this dog will not enjoy, especially when it includes bonding with its owner, Bernedoodles seem to prefer stimulating games and games that are challenging. Bernedoodles enjoy running and never seem to get tired of activities that involve running around. They particularly enjoy games that involve one-on-one participation with their owner or the person currently playing with them. The Poodle part of them enjoys water sports and swimming, although not all Bernedoodles enjoy the water. In this article, we talk more about getting Bernedoodles to enjoy swimming and the water. Typically, the earlier in life they get introduced to water, the more they seem to enjoy it. They also enjoy playing catch or any games involving retrieving things. Their desire to please their owner and spend as much time with them as possible makes them very good therapy and companion dogs. Games that provide mental stimulation may replace regular exercise from time to time, but should not replace it completely. As stated above, Bernedoodles have a moderate energy level and may even enjoy just cuddling on the couch with you every day. However, this is something that should take place after exercise not in place of it. If the dog is not getting too much exercise, you may begin to see undesirable traits. Weight — If your Bernedoodle appears to be gaining weight without changes in his diet, this is a good sign that he is not getting enough exercise. Pestering you — A Bernedoodle, or any breed for that matter, may start pestering you or bothering you if he wants to play, go outside or just run around. This is particularly common with owners who work all day and leave the Bernedoodle home alone. He wants to play and have some fun with you. Common behavior is pushing you with his nose or bringing a ball or toy to you. Restlessness — If your Bernedoodle is itching to play with you, he may become restless and start pacing back and forth or whining. If he is bored and restless, barking is often his best way of telling you that and getting your attention. Roughhousing — Often, a very laid-back dog will begin playing rough if he has a lot of excess energy building up inside of him. Signs Of Too Much Exercise Bernedoodle owners are always told about the importance of providing the dog with enough exercise to keep the dog fit and healthy. Surprising as this may sound, there is such a thing as providing a dog with too much exercise. Dogs are not much different from humans when it comes to overdoing it with exercise. The difference is that humans generally know when to quit, whereas dogs will keep going as long as their owners request it of them. Here are some signs that your Bernedoodle may be getting too much exercise. Sore muscles — This is usually the first sign that the dog is getting too much exercise and physical activity. If his muscles are sore, he may have difficulty getting up or may wince or whine when he moves or changes position. Paw pad injuries — Dogs that are getting too much exercise may exhibit signs of wear and tear on their paw pads. The pads may appear inflamed, red or thinner than normal. Exercise caution with your Bernedoodle in the hot summer months. Injured joints — Another sign of too much exercise is joint injuries, particularly in toes, wrist or elbows. Look for signs that the dog is in pain in these areas. Keep in mind that your Bernedoodle can get the exercise he needs without overdoing it or participating in a tough and strenuous exercise regimen. Going for a walk will be just as beneficial to him as strenuous running and jumping but with less risk of injury. Mental Stimulation Through Brain Games Although every Bernedoodle is different, they generally enjoy getting exercise of all kinds. However, they love games that provide mental stimulation and allow them to use their brains. Here are a couple of brain games you can use to keep your Bernedoodle mentally stimulated. Hide and seek — Dogs love this popular game almost as much as kids. Once the dog is in the stay position, go and hide some space. Call the dog and let him try to find you. Interactive puzzles — These puzzles have places inside of them where you can hide toys or treats. The dog has to use his brain to figure out how to get the treats out using his mouth and paws. Related Questions Are Bernedoodles good at any sports? Bernedoodles are good at just about any sport. Generally, the smaller the Bernedoodle is, the more energy he or she has. They love running, retrieving, and many of them excel at Agility training. Do Bernedoodles make good running partners? There are few exercises or fun things a Bernedoodle enjoys more than running. With running and jogging such popular sources of exercise for humans today, running is an excellent way for a Bernedoodle owner to spend quality time with the dog while still giving the dog the recommended daily exercise. Bernedoodles make very good running partners. Have An Exercising Day! Related Posts:. You also do not need to follow this rigorously — but it serves as a good general guideline to follow. Just be sure not to overdo it as they are young. Also, look to introduce and buildup scheduled walks slowly. Then, of course, you will need to factor in the walk itself. How challenging is the walk, the terrain, and the weather? They will soon begin to show when they have had too much. But this is within reason! Its just in their nature to be more on the lazy side. So, you can use this to your advantage and you can motivate your dog to exercise by playing fetch with him, running alongside him, or getting them to swim as Bernedoodles typically love the water. Some dogs prefer to exercise more than others, but if your dog even goes for a walk with you anywhere between 30 minutes to an hour twice a day, you are ensuring they are meeting their exercise requirements and needs. Can Bernedoodles Go On Runs? Adult bernedoodles can go on runs with you, however, it is recommended that young puppy bernedoodles do not. Generally, you can begin to run with your bernedoodle from the time they are 12 months and older. For adult bernedoodles, they love to run around and enjoy being close with you and participating in activities together. You can play games with your dog that involve running such as playing fetch, getting them to run around an obstacle course, tug of war, or just running alongside him. You must be very careful with Bernedoodle puppies and a scheduled run is not recommended. For this reason, keep running outside in your backyard and be sure to give them plenty of time to rest and recover. Equally, they are more prone to injury from the impact that walking and other exercise can do. Keep this at your dogs pace. You should not force your puppy to go beyond a comfortable pace. Short episodes of gentle running, at the pace your dog dictates. Extended running outside without a break or chance to cool down. Getting your puppy to climb the stairs or go for longer walks up an incline such as hills. Active play in the yard — using toys and balls e. Like with any dog, you should always be on the lookout for signs of exertion and exhaustion. Never overdo it with a young puppy and in this stage of life, less is definitely more! Bernedoodles prefer games that stimulate their minds and challenge them; but, a simple game of fetch will also keep them happy as well as fit. Games that offer mental stimulation to your dog are ideal, but they should never be an alternative to physical exercise. We all lead hectic lives, and it can be challenging to fit in a daily workout for your Bernedoodle. As previously mentioned, these dogs are playful and enjoy running around, but they especially like one-to-one participation of their owners. Most Bernedoodles want to swim and enjoy playing games in the water; this comes from the poodle part of their DNA. Keep in mind that not all Bernedoodles like the water, and you will have to discover that for yourself. The sooner you can introduce your Bernedoodle pup to the water, the more he is likely to enjoy the water and become a more confident swimmer. Getting the right amount of exercise for your dog is a balancing act. You want to ensure that your Bernedoodle gets enough exercise but not too much. This dog breed can get sufficient exercise without participating in a tough exercise regimen. Remember, Bernedoodles need only moderate exercise; this means that going for a stroll is just as effective for him as strenuous jumping or running, and it involves less chance of injury. Signs Of Too Much Exercise It is easy to overdo the exercise with a dog — particularly if you and your family are active and throw your dog into the deep end from a young age. While exercise is good in moderation; too much is equally a problem and your dog will likely exhibit signs and symptoms that they are doing too much. Unfortunately with dogs, they tend to keep going and persist even through injury if they believe it is what their owners expect from them. For this reason, you need to be careful as it can be hard to spot the signs that activity has become excessive for their needs and abilities. Pads may be inflamed, red or sensitive to touch causing pain in your dog. This can even burn your dogs feet! Achy Muscles: Just like we experience, dogs can suffer from sore and achy muscles too. Signs to look out for include crying, or noises of discomfort as your dog moves or gets up. Equally, they may want to sit more and stop moving altogether. Joint Injuries: This occurs mostly around the feet, legs, wrists and elbows. Exercise places a lot of stress on these areas as your dog moves around, especially running. Your dog is likely to be in some discomfort or pain when joints become inflamed and sore. Lethargy and Disinterest: In the early stages of over-exercising, your dog will likely continue. However, in time and as pain and fatigue begins to accumulate, they will become less interested in exercise. Moderation is the key, just like most things in life. Your dog should be able to enjoy activities without overdoing them. Along similar lines, the odd long walk or additional effort should be fine — just be sure to give them time to recover and maybe lower the exercise in the following days. Finally Bernedoodles are amazing pets; they are loving, loyal, and eager to please their owners. These dogs love any activity that can get them as close to their humans as possible. Thankfully Bernedoodles are not high-energy dogs and only require moderate exercise to maintain a healthy weight. This can impact their growth. The most important thing is that your Bernedoodle is enjoying themselves, keeping fit, and improving their health both physically and mentally through the right amount of appropriate exercise. Looking to learn more about the bernedoodle breed? Then my following guides may be of help:. If used properly, they can be a wonderful safe haven for your pet. At Premier Doodles, we start this process early on and all of our puppies from weeks will have multiple crates available in their kennel kept in our master bedroom. They learn what we call a Positive Conditioned Emotional Response PCER which means they come to learn that the crate is a great place to be and have to train this. The crate should be big enough for your pet to stand up, lay down and turn around. Don't worry about dividers as most all of our bernedoodles are great in the crate. Should accidents begin to appear on one side of the crate you'll have to creatively reduce the amount of space they have inside the crate. IMPORTANT NOTE: you will need to purchase two crates, one at the back door with a connected x-pen or other type of portable fencing that is clipped onto the crate to make a small play area, and the other next to your bed if you want maximum success. We have a YouTube channel called Premier Doodles where we have a short video showing what this setup looks like. The crate should be used to safely confine your pet when you are away from home, at night and for short periods of time when you are unable to watch them. We do not recommend keeping any type of collar on your pet while in the crate or in your home.It is important that from the very beginning, you never use your crate to punish your pet. You must make it a positive experience from the start. We want to create a PCER. You most definitely can confine your pet for short periods of time when they are misbehaving, but you never want to place your pet in there in a harsh or negative manner. If your pet develops a fear or dislike to their crate, it can be a very difficult situation to turn around. The crate should be a safe haven for your pet. It is an area that they should be able to go to and feel secure and comfortable. Use softer chew toys as they are more quiet at night time especially while you're sleeping. This includes bedding. We will attempt to put old towels or perhaps even an old sheet in my dogs crate but if they start to chew them, out they come. It is not worth the risk to have a pet ingest something that literally can kill them or cost a hefty price to have surgically removed. We usually keep our pets in their crate at night until they are able to hold their potty all night and they understand that we sleep at night, we don't "party". We want our dogs in the bedroom at night so we will then use a baby gate to keep them in there with us at night. They are typically crated during the day while we are gone until they are approximately 2 years of age. That is the average for dogs to mature especially bernedoodles. This may seem like a long time, but it is well worth the patience. Dogs that are well socialized are a pure pleasure to be around. They are far more "stable" than an un-socialized pet. They are much less likely to get themselves into trouble, which could ultimately get you into "big" trouble. This couldn't be further from the truth. They should always be socialized with safe, healthy dogs that are tolerant of obnoxiouspuppies. It is a common misconception that a lot of people believe that in order to have a "protective" dog, you must keep it away from people. You must praise or encourage inappropriate behavior, i. In reality, a dog that is well socialized is every bit as likely to alert you, or perhaps even defend you in the face of danger. The critical difference is: An un-socialized dog is going to assume that every single person, child etc. They have a much higher ability to "perceive" what is a true threat than the unfortunate un-social dog. The un-socialized pet is actually one that is running on fear of the "unknown". The reality is this: You should be getting a pet for a "pet". They should be a well-loved, properly cared for member of your family. To get a "pet" solely for "protection" is usually a recipe for disaster. We all can take comfort in the fact that all dogs usually alert us to something "different" in or around the house. That in itself is a huge deterrent to someone who is up to no good. To rely on a pet to keep us totally safe from harm, is not fair to the dog, nor should it be "their'' responsibility alone. A final note: To allow a dog to pick and choose what they perceive as a threat, to not socialize your dog, to not properly train and provide care for your dog, to not allow your dog to be a member of the family, is almost ALWAYS a disaster in the making. Insurance companies, Boarding Kennels, Hotels, Apartments, etc. There are certain Breeds of dogs that are not "welcome". There are no "bad" breeds in my opinion, but unfortunately, there are literally thousands of "bad" owners. Expose your pet to all different types of people, noises, environments etc. Do not force your pet to accept strangers, nor do you want to coddle fearful behavior. Do be mindful that your new puppy is not fully vaccinated until 16 weeks of age. Until then, you can still get them out and in car rides and with a rubbermaid tote can put into a cart at Lowe's and let them hear and see new people. Do yourself a favor and socialize your pet. You and they will be glad you did! They need to be corrected the instant the unwanted behavior occurs. They live in a world of cause and effect. Dogs live in the NOW. Corrections have to happen in the NOW. The quickest way to teach your dog that you are not trustworthy is to punish your dog with physical violence or to reprimand him for some action that he is not presently engaged in. Abuse is never acceptable, hitting a dog is never acceptable. You cannot use fear as a means of making an animal behave; it doesn't work. Showing an animal strong leadership and giving rules is not the same thing as instilling fear and administering inappropriate punishment. Never correct an animal out of anger of frustration. When you try and correct your dog out of anger, you are usually more out of control than your dog is. You are fulfilling your own needs, not the animals. Negative attention is better than no attention at all This is something that most parents can relate to as well. Whether this is laying down napping, playing with appropriate toys, sitting before being allowed outside, greeting people, etc. My number 1 rule for solving behavioral problems is to NOT reinforce them. Extinguish them or better yet work to not let them creep up into their pattern of life. Simply put, if your dog is acting out inappropriately and you react to it, you are very likely reinforcing that behavior. You may be reacting negatively, but you are reacting. However; if you re-direct your pet to something appropriate and then reward them for that, you will usually end up extinguishing the behavior that you do not want. For example: If your dog is jumping on you and you scream, yell, push or otherwise acknowledge the pet, you are reinforcing that behavior. Have you ever seen a "sane" dog repeatedly attack a telephone pole for no reason???? Having said that, you must also use common sense. If "Fido" is chewing on an electrical cord, you can not simply ignore it. What you should do is very quickly but calmly get up and with a sharp "NO" correct the pup and then immediately re-direct the pup to something appropriate. Reward for correct behavior. But it doesn't have to be! And with our Premier bernedoodles you'll find them to be one of the easiest puppies to housebreak because we have already started this process well before you bring your new puppy home. The following tips are helpful, if followed, in making a great and fun time less stressful for you and your pup! Once your puppy is a little bit older, they almost always can hold their potty overnight. The crate should be big enough for your puppy to standup, turnaround, and lay down. Our bernedoodle puppies do great in a Midwest XL wire crate. Puppies should be fed 3 times per day, at the very least they need to be fed 2 times per day. Please talk to your Veterinarian about your abilities to feed your pet and follow their advice. We personally do not recommend "paper'' training a puppy. No matter how you look at it, it is giving the puppy permission to use the bathroom in the house. It, of course, is a personal choice and some people's work schedule does not allow for anything different. Just keep in mind, it will be more difficult to change the "way of thinking" for the older puppy and you need to be patient Young puppies need to potty much more frequently than older puppies. Take that into consideration when housebreaking. We typically take our puppies out every minutes the first week after coming home, whether we think they need to go or not. This will be increased to hours after a few weeks. The first order of business should always be to potty when first going outside. Take your puppy to the area you want them to go and give them just a short amount of time to take care of business. When they are outside we start using potty commands Go Potty for 1 and Go Poo Poo for 2 at about 4 weeks of age and we even start using these phrases the first weeks. We repeat these phrases until they posture to do their business, at which time we shut up. As soon as they are done like the millisecond! We also do this in the wee hours of the morning but without this excitement and never with the lights on. Then take them back out to the potty area and try again. Once they have pottied, they have earned some time to play, explore, etc. Puppies are like small children, they need to be watched at all times, they need to learn right from wrong and they need a chance to be puppies! Get the puppy outside immediately while somebody else is cleaning up the mess. We use OdoBan to take all odors out so that it does not become a place that smells like an area to relieve themselves. You must use common sense when taking water away. If it is hot, the puppy has been playing hard, etc. You can also give ice cubes. Make sure you take your puppy outside right before you go to bed. If they immediately start crying you need to ignore them - they are seeking attention, and giving it to them even negative is teaching them that "this is the way to get attention". Place the puppy down and let them take care of business. Again we are saying quietly "Go Potty". Once they've gone potty, quietly praise them "Good potty" and take them right back to their crate. Do not play with your puppy, or otherwise encourage them to "wake" up, or that very well may be their incentive to "party" at 3 a. Once your puppy has developed a little more control, you will find that they start sleeping throughout the night in no time. In the beginning, they physically cannot hold their potty all night, once they can however; it is not in their best interest to get up in the middle of the night unless it has been made "rewarding"to them. We always get our puppies out immediately after eating and drinking. If after 15 minutes they don't go potty we will bring back inside and place in a crate. About 5 minutes later we will take back outside and repeat this process until they have relieved themselves. This is so common that most puppies will go through this at some point in their early part of their life. The best thing you can do is to try to avoid doing those things that seem to bring this behavior about. This is normal. If this behavior continues best to have a veterinarian check for a UTI. Here are some tips to help: Use a crate when you cannot supervise. Put his crate near a door allowing him to get outside quickly, potentially avoiding an accident. Keep quiet but relaxed. Ignore his behavior. Build up gradually to new things. Do basic obedience training. Make it fun and confidence building. Using lots of obedience commands and praises helps distract. Take him out regularly to do his business so his bladder will not build up pressure every 15 minutes. Do not go straight to his crate when entering a room. Allow him to calm down first, before letting him out. Just ignore the dog and walk past. When you go to the crate to let him out do so quietly. When out in the yard, do not call him up to you but walk slowly around with him. Give him a command to urinate and praise him calmly using voice only when he does. Do everything slowly and work at making your body language calm and unconcerned. Keep verbal volume low. Get down at ground level. Or sit on a low chair. Be non-threatening. Spend time sitting with him by your side on a leash. Take him for walks where he can gradually be exposed to the situations that trigger his urination. Ask friends to practice no touch, no talk, no eye contact around him. Avoid situations and people that you cannot control until your dog is learning to control himself and gain confidence. Submissive urination can be annoying, but exhibiting your frustration to your dog only makes it worse way worse as this is the very reason why they will sometimes do it. With a little planning and adjusting your attitude, you can minimize and overcome the problem which will disappear anyways but mine as well help along the line. However,there are rules that must be followed. If you ignore the rules, you should not play at all. If played properly, these games are some of the best anti-aggression exercises you can practice with your dog. Rule 1 While playing tug-of-war, most dogs will make a mistake and grab fingers or a hand instead of the toy. Because we are playing a game and feel that the mouth or bite was accidental, people tend to ignore it. This is a BIG mistake! If you allow rough housing or tug-of-war, you MUST never allow the dog to mouth or bite for any reason. The very instant the dog's tooth or teeth touch you or your clothing, you must immediately reprimand the dog and STOP playing. Dogs are very capable of controlling their teeth. Rule 2 The dog should never be allowed to initiate the play session or grab for the toy without invitation. Only when you give a command such as "take it". Especially with puppies, if you allow the dog to grab things without invitation, then you can find yourself playing while trying to get dressed, put on socks etc. You start the game, you end the game. Rule 3 It is always a good idea to stop the game every 30 seconds or so. When you stop the game, give your dog the command to "give or drop it". Make your dog sit or down. Praise and release. If you want to continue to play, give the dog the command to "take it" and continue. If the dog does not respond to the commands to give, you must immediately take the toy away and stop playing. This would clearly tell you that your dog either does not understand the command, or you are absolutely NOT in control. If you are not in control, you should never play this game with your dog. What may be a "soft" bite to you very well may not be to a child or an elderly person. When bites occur in play, in greeting or as an accident, we tend to ignore or excuse it dogs are very capable of controlling their teeth. What happens is the dog learns that they can act recklessly around us. We have taught them that there is no need to exercise caution around us or be respectful. They learn that biting is acceptable. Dogs do not do this to each other. They don't rationalize or make excuses. Biting and disrespect are swiftly and effectively reprimanded and it very rarely, if ever, happens again. Puppies are going to mouth you.We want them to learn an appropriate ABI or in other words how much force can they bite down that is deemed acceptable ie doesn't hurt. We need to first work with this component and then work on reducing the frequency. But bite force first. As you're playing with your puppy just keep screeching "OUCH" when it's too hard and at the moment they cease or bite softly praise them big time. This will go back and forth and forth and back like a ping pong match well at least played by two competent players! This will not be a one session deal. This will take weeks and weeks of being very consistent in your "OUCH" every time they either bite you or your clothes too hard. We do want to promote gentle bite behavior as this reinforces the bonding and teaches them an appropriate ABI which is imperative for producing a stable adult dog. DO NOT take the mouthing behavior away but lets just shape it so that the puppy knows when it's too hard. If your puppy is clearly highly energized and not responding then the play session is over and you walk away. That's it. Never ever hit or smack your dog to correct or thump them on the head as this will only produce head shy dogs. Remember…It is natural for dogs to bite, it must be understood that biting human flesh is the problem and will never be tolerated when it's too hard. The good news is that puppy mouthing behavior aka puppy biting almost always goes away between months even if you let it go. We just prefer the process of teaching boundaries early on while still allowing for some gentle mouthing behaviors. Just remember this will take a LONG time and will make up a big part of your early puppy training. Remember, dogs repeat behaviors that are in some way, shape or form rewarding to them. If you can remove the reward negative punishment , the behavior usually will decrease and then disappear. You need to figure out what the "reward" is and then remove it. Obviously, some behavior will not be able to be extinguished. For example, if the dog enjoys rolling in feces or mud, chewing, barking or anything that in and of itself is rewarding and you cannot "remove" it, it will continue. Yes there are some more invasive ways to extinguish these behaviors thru negative punishment e-collars, putting dog feces in holes being dug in the backyard and filling it, etc. Extinction can work great for nuisance behaviors such as barking, whining for attention, jumping, begging, controlling play, etc. If you attempt to use extinction, be prepared for the behavior to escalate before it starts to decrease. For example: If your dog is used to jumping on you and receiving attention and you decide to ignore it, the dog will become confused - "Hey.Very often, they will try harder to get the desired attention. If you stick to your guns and refuse to acknowledge the dog, the behavior will usually decrease and eventually stop. If you pay attention or reward it even one time or even slightly, it will be all the more difficult to extinguish in the future. The only thing you will accomplish is to have the dog work harder to get what they want. The type of reaction depends on the individual personality of the puppy, his overall resilience, and your reaction. We do fear recovery response training during the first 8 weeks to make sure they have a fast recovery to new novel noises and objects and situations. The how and when of fear periods also depends on the individual puppy, so you may or may not see it in your puppy as described. Generally speaking, puppies go through two potential fear periods during puppyhood. The first fear phase comes when the puppy is just months of age. This also coincides with a very critical socialization period. Your puppy is coming into a new home, leaving behind his mother, and litter mates, and is being introduced to a new family. What you have to do is just keep everything FUN! Puppies look to you as a security buffer and want to see how you react in a situation. Carry super yummy treats with you everywhere you go. Ask people to give your puppy a treat. Give treats with lots of praise in situations where you see your puppy is a little unsure. Carry a favorite toy with you and play squeaky toys or tug of war. This helps a puppy feel more comfortable. It is important to be upbeat and excited about new things and encourage your puppy to feel the same way. The second fear phase comes later in puppyhood. These puppies normally become worried about novel things, or you may see your puppy express fear over something that never bothered them before. The key to this phase is to not force your puppy into situations, and just like before, remember to keep it fun. Instead, give a few treats, talk to him, and then YOU walk up to statue and touch it. YouTube is littered with videos of dogs being forced to interact or even being chased! This type of interaction can be seriously distressing for your puppy. Remember to keep it fun and positive, and he will move through the phase without any problems. A More Thorough Response.There are windows of time when certain types of behaviors e. We have done our part, but this training must continue long after they go to their new homes. Fear-based periods can include fearful responses to noises, dogs barking, music, really anything that could be interpreted as a threat. Although dogs have been domesticated for a long time, they still carry DNA from their wolf lineage and that includes protective puppy behaviors such as quickly scampering to cover when a threat is perceived. Between months these types of responses can be manifested by cowering behavior but can also include barking, growling, ears back and tail down, and in some cases just a bit of unsureness about the stimulus causing this reaction. Keep in mind that these behaviors manifest from a genetic basis that likely came with wild populations of dog ancestors e. Well, there are several key socialization periods as well and the first one occurs during the first 8 weeks, and this is when puppies begin to bond and trust their human family. Without a thorough socialization program, you will be battling that on top of puppy-fear based responses at a whole new level. Trust me fear-based training does make a difference when started in the first 8 weeks and research corroborates this and that early puppy training the first 8 weeks helps to temper these responses, but every puppy is different, and every home and environmental conditions are different as well. Just keep all of this in mind during the training period that these genetically programmed responses helped the puppies survive before becoming household pets that we have today. Unfortunately, they carry the genetic baggage from their past ancestors, and we just need to work around this. Understanding this is the first step toward puppy training… Ok so what to do!? Is there hope? Absolutely and the above information just sets the stage for how to train the puppies and help them thru these two fear-based periods. This can be extremely overwhelming and can manifest itself in many ways wanting to be with you all the time, depressed immune responses, etc. The main thing is to use the first fear-based period between weeks to absolutely bond to your new puppy and make sure they feel secure, protected, and not frightened. Many families have young kids and although they were raised with kids of all ages this first 8—week fear-based period can kick in and when chased by a young child, grabbed, pulled, or petted and handled can induce a fear-based response that may be hard to detect at first but can slowly creep in. Make sure that whoever is interacting with the puppy is doing so in a very friendly and non-threatening way. But remember kids can induce a fear-based response as can other dogs during this initial fear-based period. Allow the puppy to initiate contact with new people. Early traumatic experiences to a hostile child or dog can have a lifelong impact on the puppy and in many cases, this can cause permanent behavioral changes and why we do not advocate for dog parks or other situations where lots of dogs are together without proper supervision. You can also use a Bluetooth speaker and occasionally play novel noises during the day search in YouTube for Puppy Culture noises. During these very positive training episodes you can again play novel noises but very brief and have lots of treats ready to redirect their behavior. Such as they are fearful of going into the back seat. Your job is to create a positive experience by getting into the back seat. Maybe get some raw meat and put into a Ziplock bag and let your dog smell it. Then if they put one foot up onto the back seat treat them. Then two feet only gets a treat etc. Keep it fun. But you must be abundantly patient during this time. Dogs that routinely go thru basic obedience training school during this time seem to fly thru it with flying colors, but patience and praise is the key. The bottom line is that training and socialization is going to happen the rest of their lives. Certainly, it gets easier! Your investment now will have a lifelong impact on the well-being of your fur baby. David Exercise — both physical and mental — is essential to Bernedoodles at all stages of development. They are generally lower energy dogs than other breeds, and regular exercise can help keep them that way. By regularly exercising them, you will help them maintain a healthy weight, lower their chance of developing various medical conditions, and keep them happier. This has obvious benefits for your dog but can have significant benefits for you, too: content dogs are less likely to engage in destructive behavior such as digging and excessive barking. The best way to implement exercise is to find options that your dog enjoys. If your dog loves running, take them to the dog park and let them run free for 30 minutes a day. If your dog loves playing catch, get a ball and let them run out their energy. Below you will find more specific information on exercising a Bernedoodle, but know that the most important thing is regular exercise doing something the dog already loves. Bernedoodle Puppy Exercise Requirements You might assume that the extra puppy energy of young Bernedoodles means they need more exercise than they will when they are older, but the opposite is true. They have lots of energy, but it is used up in bursts rather than extended periods of energy. They are in it for the dash — not the sprint. Remember that puppies sleep about 18 hours per day, depending on their age. This is necessary for their safe growth. In fact, exercising a puppy too long at too young of an age can actually inhibit the growth process and cause issues as they age. We recommend exercising your Bernedoodle puppy twice per day for five minutes for each month of age they are. For example, our six-month Bernedoodle gets 30 minutes of exercise twice per day. For her, this primarily consists of running around in our backyard and pestering her older brother, but for your pooch, it could mean a long walk, a trip to the dog park, or anything active that they are interested in. When dogs are properly exercised and have plenty of approved toys to play with, their destructive behavior should be minimal or non-existent. Couple with this with the physical benefits of exercise, and it is easy to see that this is a crucial element of caring for your puppy. Adult Bernedoodle Exercise Requirements Once a Bernedoodle is one year old, you can consider them an adult for purposes of exercise. At this point, they should get about one hour of exercise twice per day. Adults enjoy the same types of exercise as puppies, but remember that they are half Poodle and Poodles are water dogs. Adult Bernedoodles can also keep up their stamina much longer than puppies can. If you are a hiker, take your dog hiking. If you like to take long walks, bring your pet with you. Around one year old is a great time to get into the habit of regular exercise with your dog. A combination of these signs can point to a Bernedoodle that needs more exercise: Gaining weight. If your adult Bernedoodle is gaining weight for no obvious reason, a lack of exercise is likely the culprit. Aggravating behaviors. When a dog is not getting the exercise they need, they can become frustrated. This can turn into aggravating behaviors such as not following training exercises, following you around, bringing you toys over and over again, or pushing you with their nose or paws. These are signs that the dog wants to play and get some exercise. Likewise, when a Bernedoodle wants to exercise or play, they might start acting restless by pacing, whining, or barking. These are signs that they are trying to tell you something. Excessive roughhousing. If your Bernedoodle is laid back like most are, and they suddenly want to roughhouse much more than usual, this is a sign that they are trying to work off excess energy. As is true with a human, if you exercise a Bernedoodle that is not used to strenuous exercise, they can overdo it and injure themselves. Signs you might need to cut down on the exercise include: Sore muscles. This is a sure sign that your dog has overextended itself or otherwise been injured. If they have a hard time getting up or whining when they sit up or change positions, they likely have sore muscles. Injury to the paw pad. When a dog gets too much exercise, it can show on the paw pads as damage. They might look red and inflamed, or thinner than usual. This can be a considerable issue in warmer months when hot pavement can burn their feet. Injured joints. Bernedoodles put more than half of their weight on their front limbs, so their front joints are generally the first to be injured in the event of an exercise injury. If you notice that their toes or legs seem stiff or injured, it might be time to back off on the exercise. Avoidance of exercise. If your Bernedoodle has historically liked the exercise you do with them but suddenly does not want to go, then this is a sign that something is wrong. Remember that Bernedoodles do not need excessive exercise. They are just fine with a few walks per day. Mental Exercise for Bernedoodles Bernedoodles tend to be very smart dogs. The more intelligent the dog is, the more mental stimulation they need. With our puppy, we give her consistent physical exercise, but that in and of itself is not enough — she also needs mental exercise. We achieve this in a few ways. First, we feed her kibble in a food puzzle. She loves these food puzzles and has figured them out very quickly. As an added bonus, they turn feeding time into a fun, extended event that keeps her busy so my husband and I can have some much-needed time to relax. Another way to get your dog mental exercise is through games. We play hide-and-seek with her, which involves one of us holding her while the other hides. When she finally does, she gets lots of praise a special treat. We also keep our puppy stimulated with regular training. As with other types of exercise, it might take you some time to determine which types of mental exercise your Bernedoodle likes. Post navigation. Although they often sport frilly haircuts and can be found prancing around dog show rings, they were originally bred as water retrievers and are a very intelligent and athletic dog that thrives on mental stimulation and physical exercise. Doodle popularity in the U. One of the most common reasons we see in regard to a family having to rehome their doodle relates to the topic of exercise and energy level. So what should you expect when adopting a Goldendoodle into your family? Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles tend to be moderately active, while Sheepadoodles and other herding breed doodles tip the scales into the highly active category! As a general rule, most young doodles do well with roughly an hour or two of exercise each day. As a pup, this should be broken up into several sessions — a couple short walks around the block and a few rounds of fetch time in the backyard throughout the day, for example. Most pups are ready for a burst of activity first thing in the morning and it also helps them to settle down well for the night to have another stretch of exercise in the evening. If these requirements are overwhelming to your schedule, keep in mind that doggy play-dates as well as doggy daycare and dog walkers can serve as excellent substitutes to keep your doodle well-exercised! A well-exercised doodle will be much better behaved and relaxed indoors. As your pup matures, he will be able to exercise less often but for longer periods of time. For example, an adult doodle around a year of age can typically go for one long walk or jog and typically be content to mostly just relax and chew toys the rest of the day. But if you have a particularly demanding work schedule that prevents a lot of daily hangout time, your doodle will probably need even more physical exercise to stay relaxed when you are gone. All Doods love playing, but Bernedoodles seem to be a little extra when it comes to the humor and fun of play time. So tug of war, fetch, chase, etc. They will be more than overjoyed to get their energy out by chasing kids in the backyard, etc. Goldendoodles - These pups definitely need their exercise just like any doodle, but they are flexible as to the form of exercise. They too also love a good play session. Sheepadoodles — These pups thrive off of vigorous exercise. They are typically outgoing dogs who love new things and adventure, so long weekend hikes or meeting new friends at the dog park is right up their alley. We hope this post has helped you form an understanding of just how much exercise is required for a Doodle and which breed could form the perfect partnership for you. Now get out there and create some fun outdoor memories with your pup!

Vocality level 3 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament The French Bulldog is a clown in a lapdog. They enjoy playing and entertaining their family, as well as cuddling and snoozing with their favorite person. They are amiable, sweet, companionable, and willing to please. A short walk on lead is sufficient to meet most of its physical needs. Frenchie snores and may wheeze and drool. Require minimal coat care Facial wrinkles should be regularly cleaned. Brachycephalic syndrome stenotic nares, elongated soft palate Intervertebral disk disease CHD seldom causes symptoms or problems Allergies History Where are French Bulldogs from? In the nineteenth century, the Bulldog was fairly popular in England, especially around Nottingham. The French women, especially, were attracted to these little Bulldogs, especially those with erect ears a common but disliked feature in England. Dog dealers brought more of the clownish little dogs to France, where they soon became the rage of Paris. The dogs were dubbed Bouledogue Francais. How big do French Bulldogs get? Some Bulldogs are quite small weighing less than 25 lbs, however, dogs in this breed on average, weigh 28 lbs. What are some French Bulldog facts and information? Facts French Bulldogs are best known for: Bat ears. They have a short muzzle and have been bred to have an even and pleasant temperament which makes them a great companion for families with children. They are very playful in nature and even have some hilarious moments as they thrive for human attention and long, lasting friendships. French Bulldogs are typically less than 28 pounds. They're consistently in the top 10 of most popular registered dog breeds in America. Before you start asking where can I find a "French Bulldog for sale near me" you need to make sure it's the right breed for you. Here is everything you need to know about French Bulldogs, including their history, appearance, disposition, activity level, care needs, and cost. History French Bulldogs are the result of a cross between Toy Bulldogs imported from England and local ratter dogs in Paris, France, in the s. The breed was then exported to France, where it became known as the Bouledogue Francais. In , these dogs were brought back to England and they eventually made their way to America. Frenchies are now their own specific breed. Appearance When it comes to appearance, the number one thing people associate with them are their large, bat-like ears that are set high on their heads. French Bulldog puppies for sale typically have a stocky build with short legs, a large head, and a stubby tail. A French Bulldog puppy has a wrinkly appearance and a short nose and muzzle. French Bulldogs typically weigh between 20 and 28 pounds and stand 12 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder. Their incredibly gorgeous, short-haired and long-haired coats come in several colors and patterns, such as fawn, tan, brown, chocolate, cocoa, blue or dilute, cream, lilac, Isabella, black, brindle, piebald, and merle. Disposition If you're looking for a small, lovable companion dog, you can't go wrong with a Frenchie. These dogs are known for their affectionate, gentle nature and loving, easygoing personality, and they make great pets for families with children. They can be lively and hilarious. Searching for "French Bulldog puppies near me for sale" and finding the right pup will leave you a companion dog through and through. They love nothing more than to cuddle up with their favorite person and they make excellent lap dogs. They do well in homes with children and other pets, although they can be a bit boisterous at times. They don't bark much and don't like to be left alone for long periods of time. French Bulldog puppies thrive in any environment from apartments to rural areas. Activity Level Looking for French Bulldogs for sale may have you wondering how much exercise a Frenchie requires to be happy and healthy. They are relatively inactive dogs and don't require a lot of exercise, although they do enjoy occasional walks and playtime. They are a great choice for busy people. You won't need a large yard for a Frenchie. Grooming Requirements French Bulldogs are relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming needs. They can have a short coat that is smooth and soft to the touch. Some long-haired French Bulldog puppies are called Fluffies. When it comes to grooming, French Bulldog puppies only need to be brushed occasionally, and their nails should be trimmed regularly. They are also moderate shedders, so you'll need to do some regular vacuuming to keep your home clean. Training Opting for a French Bulldog puppy for sale is the perfect choice if you're looking for a funny, even-tempered, social pup. Training them can be more challenging since they are so incredibly stubborn. These dogs have big personalities and a mind of their own. You can make training a French Bulldog puppy into a game and offer rewards like food or treats, praise, and playtime. However, with consistency and motivation, their people-pleasing personality will have them trained in no time. Cost If you're wondering, where can I find a "French Bulldog puppy for sale near me? French Bulldog puppies for sale can be higher priced due to their coat length, genetic makeup, and rare coat colors, including which genes they carry, such as the intensity coat color gene variant, dilution, merle, lilac, or Isabella. They also have some health problems that can be expensive to treat, such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and respiratory issues, so be aware of these expenses in addition to regular veterinarian care. However, with proper care, a Frenchie can be a loving and loyal companion for years to come. When looking for Frenchies for sale, it's crucial to factor in the ongoing costs beyond just the initial price. Food, toys, veterinary care, vaccinations, and other ongoing expenses should be taken into consideration. For instance, if you're planning to travel with a fluffy friend, be ready to pay for a pet-friendly transportation service. However, for many owners, the joy and companionship that these beautiful pups provide are well worth the investment. If you're looking for French Bulldog puppies near me, be sure to research breeders carefully. A trustworthy breeder with Frenchie puppies for sale will provide documentation of vaccinations and other health records for their puppies. A good breeder will also be happy to answer any questions you have about the breed, including size, temperament, and grooming needs — so don't be afraid to ask away! Some unscrupulous breeders are known for selling sick or poorly-bred puppies, so it's important to find a reputable source like Pawrade offering happy, healthy French Bulldog puppies for sale through pre-screened breeders. Why Pawrade? Finding a reputable breeder has never been easier Ready to find your perfect French Bulldog? Pawrade is dedicated to connecting loving families with a dog that needs a home. Using Pawrade to browse for a French Bulldog for sale is a reliable way to ensure that you get a dog from a reputable breeder. Our focus is on the health of the dog and ethical, sustainable breeding practices. We ensure that the breeders on our platform are genuine, so you have peace of mind in knowing that you are receiving exactly what you expect. If you've always dreamed of owning this type of dog, choose Pawrade for your French Bulldog for sale and begin a new chapter in your life today! Stop searching for "French Bulldog puppies near me" — you've come to the right place! We understand just how difficult it is to find a legitimate breeder, so we've put our experience and expertise to work for you. Why wait any longer? Browse through our vast selection of puppies for sale from a safe and reputable source. No Puppy Mill Pledge We have zero tolerance toward puppy mills and pride ourselves in connecting you with honest and reputable breeders where puppies are raised with love and compassion. Learn More Health Guarantee As fellow puppy owners, we know the importance of having a happy and healthy puppy. Every puppy is backed by our comprehensive health guarantee. We produce all of the brindles in black, blue, chocolate, lilac , fawns and sables in golden, red, blue, chocolate, lilac , creams, pure coats and tan points in black, blue, chocolate, lilac , and pieds in ALL of these beautiful colors! Call Us Are you ready to own the most popular dog breed in the U. We appreciate you visiting our site, whether you have been here many times in the past, or if this is the first time you have paid us a visit. We hope that the time you spend with us will be enjoyable, and that you will feel it is worth your time and effort. Of course, we invite you to come back as often as time permits, as we have provided a lot of information regarding the French Bulldog, and we doubt if you will cover everything in one visit. Under Owner Information, you will find a lot of information to help you determine if the French Bulldog is the breed for you. There are also FAQs for New Owners, if you have made the decision to adopt one of these wonderful dogs. Under Owner Info, you will also find several products that we use and highly endorse. We then have the unpleasant talk about scammers, who are rampant in the puppy arena, especially regarding French Bulldog puppies. If you see a deal that sounds too good to be true, there is a .It breaks our hearts every time we are contacted by someone who has been scammed, or nearly scammed. Please be careful. Lastly, under Owner Info, you will find information regarding our contract and our guarantee, which we believe is one of the best available, and it is the least we will do in the unlikely event that there is a problem with one of our dogs. Under Our Frenchies, you will find information regarding our breeding males, our females which have puppies on the ground, and retirees that are ready for their forever homes. We are very proud of the breeding male and females we have assembled. You can click on Former Puppies and scroll down to see a few examples of all of the various colors that Frenchies come in that we have produced in the past. We know that the different colors can be a bit confusing, so we have tried to make it as straight forward as possible. The only problem is that there are so many gorgeous colors that they come in, a decision regarding color preferences can be difficult .Also, under Our Frenchies, you can click on New Puppies to see all of our currently available puppies, along with a list of the litters that are born, but not yet introduced. We have placed multiple puppies in every state of the union except Hawaii, as they have a very long quarantine period. We have been using very responsible puppy nannies for years to deliver puppies to major airports all over the country, for very reasonable rates. We would love to work with you to place the perfect little Frenchie in your home. Some of our puppies, especially very specific requests, are placed with clients on our waiting list, but many are available to potential clients that are looking for puppies right away. If you are looking for a high-quality Frenchie puppy, please contact us and we will send information which will help you determine if we might be the breeder for you. We will do our best to help you adopt the Frenchie of your dreams. We do not post earlier videos. All of the puppies shown in the videos will have had their vet checks and will be available for adoption with the exception of a few that we may belatedly decide to hold back. Generally, those that we will be holding back will not be included in the videos. As a reminder to each of our Waiting List clients who have passed on prior puppies due to poor timing, when you are ready for your puppy, please let us know so we do not bypass your name when we are placing new litters. Meeting the puppy Nanny was easy and smooth at the airport! Hank was love at first sight. Happy Holidays! Just thought I would write to give you an update on our Dieter. Thank you again for doing what you do, and raising such amazing dogs! Dieter is loved by all who meet him, and he has met several people on his adventures this year. He is such a mischievous, but entertaining boy. He is the sweetest, craziest, cutest, cuddliest, puppy! Hi everyone! Just wanted to give you guys an update on Hank Mowgli. He is the center of every minute in my girls day. There were tears of joy and excitement — it was wonderful! Night went well — I had my hand in her kennel so she could sleep — she would make sure it was there and then fall back to […] Danielle, Rich and Rowan Hi BlueHaven!! Hope all is well! Rich and I would like to thank you for the care and love you put into your breeding program. Rowan is a healthy and fun-loving Frenchie! We hope all is well in your neck of the woods. All is well here. Originally, when we listed our preferred colors, we did not select brindle, but as you can see, once we saw GiGi, […] Catherine, Nick, Kolbie, Natty, and Dieter Dieter had an awesome first night. Hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving! Just wanted to send an update on Pearl formerly Sinah. At nearly 4 months old now; Pearl is doing very, very well. She had her 3rd series of shots and vet check last week and is perfectly healthy.

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies, you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies, we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for Pennsylvania Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies, we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Pennsylvania? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of our golden retriever puppies for sale. How do I know which breeders to trust in Pennsylvania? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. All dogs that enter our organization are treated as members of a family. Some do stay forever! If a dog is found to not fit in after several attempts at placement or no interest is shown in a particular dog we just make room and he stays for the remainder of his life. We attempt to crate train all dogs as well as teach them basic commands and how to walk on leash. We incorporated in the very beginning and in became a recognized c3 non profit organization. We work as partners with the Petco Foundation and the Petfinder Foundation to apply for grants and funding opportunities. ALL of our funding comes through our adoption fees that we require at the time a dog finds a new home. However, special needs and senior dogs that stay forever do not bring in any adoption fees, so we count on the kindness of strangers and dog lovers like yourself to help us make their life comfortable. IIn September of we saw the need for a place for abused, abandon, neglected and wayward dogs in our area to go where they could be loved, rehabbed and find forever homes. In we where able to rescue 4 dogs, but after the WTC attack and throughout we took in and re-homed dogs, including 2 chocolate lab brothers directly from the NYC area just one week after the attack. In we received our non-profit status and became a federally recognized c3. In it became obvious that while we where making an impact for young adoptable dogs, there where just as many senior dogs who would never have a chance at adoption from the pounds and shelters, or when their owners passed away or could no longer care for them. SOGS fills the need for a quiet place for senior dogs to retire and live out the rest of their life without worry that they will be uprooted again and need to find another family. These seniors do NOT go up for adoption, but become members of the pack here, with as many as 10 or more sleeping in bed with me every night, until their final day comes. We provide love, affection, medical care, hospice and when that day ultimately arrives, a swift and painless crossing to the rainbow bridge to wait for us or be reunited with their family who has gone on ahead. While finding homes for young dogs brings great reward, seeing life and happiness return to a grizzled grey face is so much more gratifying. We love our seniors and special needs dogs and in return they give us so much more than we could ever give them. We have helped dogs from every single state east of the Rockies and many from Canada as well. We work closely with our rescue partners to bring great dogs to waiting forever homes whenever we can. We work especially closely with the Paws Squad in Logan County WV to help the dogs of very rural Appalachia that do not get the same care and attention that we see in our local area. SPARRO always has young, beautiful retrievers available for adoption which you can see on our adoption page at www. Now, before we delve into the epic tale of this three-legged superstar, let's set the record straight: This is not a typo. Lily is proudly a trio of legs, and boy, does she own it! Ever heard the saying, "Less is more? Well, when Lily strutted into our lives with her unique strut, we understood that saying on a whole new level. You see, life dealt Lily a bit of a challenge in the leg department. But instead of sulking, she teamed up with a kind-hearted vet and they decided, "Hey! Four legs are overrated anyway! And just like that, her four-legged days were behind her. But don't for a second think that this slowed her down. No siree! Lily's turned her three legs into a fashion statement and a sign of resilience. She zooms around, proving that she doesn't need that extra leg to outpace, outplay, and out-cuddle any other dog in the park. Speaking of other animals, if you've got some furry companions at home, fret not. This gorgeous gal is the epitome of sociability. Loves them. Adores them. Absolutely smitten by them. And let's talk about her coat - it's so stunning, even top models are jealous. And that grin of hers? It could light up the darkest of rooms. So if you're in the market for a dog with a beautiful coat, a heartwarming story, and one less leg less vacuuming for you! Adopt her, and embark on a journey filled with love, laughter, and countless three-legged races. Don't wait, because a star like Lily won't be waiting in the wings for long! You can learn more about Lily and other dogs at Happy Bark by visiting www. We are a c 3 nonprofit relying on donations , supporters , fundraising, and event and retail proceeds for funding to provide top-quality care to all DVGRR dogs. Learn more about our Golden Gateway campus and watch our campus tour video. Watch our video to take a quick tour. Click to learn more. Our mission is simple: Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue provides new beginnings for displaced Golden Retrievers, and other golden-hearted dogs, along with a full array of adoptive and educational support for the adopters and broader community. If you are interested in adopting, please attend one of our Monthly Open House: Meet the Dogs, Tour, and Shop events, held every second Saturday of the month from 10am until 12pm. Plus, we always need event sponsors. Learn more, click here! All dogs must remain on lead during the event; no flexis. We ask that each dog be handled by one human. Click here for all the details! Details are coming! Help us cover the costs of renovations! Click here for details! Kennel Caregivers — Dedicated, responsible, hard-working, compassionate individuals. Must be 17 years or older. Click here to learn more and apply.

Now in Indianapolis area, Indiana! We have Top European bloodline German Shepherd puppies from titled and health tested parents raised in our home to yours! We breed West German showlines and West German working lines. Phone: Email: [email protected] Our fall litter is here! Ready to go home in October we have 3 beautiful males available! Training dogs professionally since and breeding German shepherd puppies since , we have relocated to give an even better life for our beloved dog family and to be closer to our training club to better title our dogs! Located in the Indianapolis Indiana metropolitan area we are nestled on a beautiful plot of 10 acres in the quiet country. The dogs absolutely love it here and so do we! Here at Aus Gerstbrei German shepherds, our dogs happiness and well being is very important to us and we love beautiful, healthy, stable temperament dogs. We only breed from health tested and titled parents to ensure that our families get the absolute best puppies we can provide for them. We also keep from our own program and train ourselves so we know what we are breeding and what their strengths and weaknesses are so we can choose appropriate mating partners to make our dogs even better. Improving the breed is very important to us. .We fly all over the world to the best studs that we may find the best suitable partners for our girls. We breed black and red West German Showlines and sometimes will use some West German working lines in our program. I grew up with dogs and was always fascinated with things you could teach them and how much love an animal could offer to a human. In my adult life I originally started working with rescue dogs out of college, and helping foster and rehabilitating them which was a very rewarding experience and taught me a lot, especially patience! As I worked my career as an artist I also became fascinated with the sport of IGP to bring a dog to its highest point of drive and have control and such a trusting obedience relationship with them. I had started hunting for my first IGP dog and had a very hard time coming up with dogs with good health and good temperament from breeders. I had a dog but he lacked the qualities to get beyond a BH which we worked hard for and developed many health issues. I had then decided to get exactly what I wanted in a dog I would pursue breeding my own and start my own bloodline. Families are my biggest client so the need for a stable dog that can settle is very important when breeding future generations. I am still a huge supporter of rescue and I do still accept board and train clients from time to time when we are not preparing for trials or raising a litter. Our prices reflect on the hard work, training, and expensive titling and health testing we do. If you can not pay for a well bred dog from tested and titled parents we highly recommend checking out your local reputable German Shepherd rescue. Some great dogs can sometimes find their way into rescue at no fault of their own. We are located about one hour from Indianapolis, Indiana and also about two hours from Louisville, Kentucky. Please call or email to inquire about trained dogs, German shepherd puppy litters, or about our board and train program. We are German Shepherd breeders and trainers in Indiana. We have answers. All you need to do is to check out the available puppies, and send through a message to the breeder of any who catch your eye. What makes Uptown different from other places with German Shepherd puppies in Indianapolis? Are there any Indianapolis German Shepherd puppies for sale right now? This is a very important point for us. Do you have the cheapest German Shepherds for sale Indianapolis? Breeding healthy puppies in an ethical way takes a lot of dedication and time. Not to mention money! Sadly, the cheapest puppies will often come from puppy mills or backyard breeders. We love shelter dogs, and know that the decision whether or not to rehome a shelter dog, or find your puppy from one of our breeders, is a decision that only you and your family can make. As long as you do your research and choose a reputable organization, then either option is totally the right decision for you! How do I know that my German Shepherd for sale in Indianapolis will be healthy? We know they take incredible care of their puppies, and they all get regular health checks. Is it enough to walk German Shepherd puppies Indianapolis, or do they need more exercise? German Shepherds are an incredibly active and athletic breed, so they definitely do best when given the opportunity to spend plenty of time outside. Almost as important for this clever breed is the chance to stretch their brains too. Regular training sessions, games, and food puzzles will all give your dog the opportunity to show how smart they are! How big will a German Shepherd for sale Indianapolis grow? German Shepherds are muscular and noble large dogs, with males usually maturing to be a little larger than females. Their height can vary from 22 - 26 inches tall, and a healthy weight range would be from 65 - 90 pounds. Whichever end of the scale your dog ends up on, they will always make an impression on whoever sees them. What will an Indianapolis German Shepherd for sale be like to train? The German Shepherd breed is well-known for their intelligence, so you can be sure that training sessions will be rewarding for you both. These dogs love the chance to learn, and enjoy the challenge of regular training. Signing up for puppy training classes is a great way to learn how to get the best from your clever dog. We Are Dedicated! We simply love German Shepherds! As one of the premier reputable German Shepherd breeders indiana has, we focus on healthy GSD puppies for sale that are exceptional quality. From their amazing working dog traits to their loving and compassionate companion dog personality, we love German Shepherds and have dedicated our lives to the betterment of the breed. Full blooded, sable, solid black, silver, no matter what we love this breed! We are also passionate about training in a variety of working areas including obedience, puppy training and basic training. You have many choices when it comes to who you adopt your new German Shepherd puppy from! We are honored to know that so many people choose us because we believe in healthy, happy and beautiful GSD puppies. From our health clearances to our excellent pedigrees, we take pride to knowing our German Shepherds are top of the line! So no matter if you are searching for a German Shepherd Breeder in Indiana, Michigan or Ohio, we hope to earn your business through honesty, integrity and ethical breeding practices! Puppy Links.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. This was the first time we had a chance to chart puppies from birth until 8 weeks old. We tried to take as many pictures as possible so we could have a journal of our Golden Retriever puppy growth week by week. When raising guide and service dog puppies we usually bring home our puppies at around weeks old. On occasion we are allowed to see puppies before 8 weeks of age, but they need to stay with their mother and siblings during those important early weeks to get milk and antibodies from mama and learn how to interact properly with siblings, learning important behaviors like bite inhibition. During our days as a foster we raised two litters of puppies , but both were already weeks old by the time we got them home. We actually own the Puppy Culture DVD and Workbook which includes charts, lists, worksheets and other great information for raising your litter. Keep your eyes and ears open and absorb it all like a sponge! Birth To 1 Week Old Guess what? This was the first litter we ever whelped!? We got a lot of advise, but we were largely on our own. Large Puppy Dish — great for feeding the puppies when they moved to solid food. Whelping Mats — we ordered 2 of these mats and washed them several times a day. Whelping Box — We have a homemade whelping box built by my father-in-law, but if we continue raising litters I plan on purchasing an EZWhelp Whelping Box. Our homemade box lasted three litters. We ended up purchasing the Magnabox which was hellu expensive but if you plan on raising multiple litters we highly recommend it. We recently put together a whelping checklist with all the supplies we gathered together to help out with our second litter of Golden Retriever puppies. Check out our whelping supplies checklist here. However, none were overly huge and none were extra small. No runts and no beasts. It was my understanding that when the cord was chewed down to the base of the belly it was sometimes difficult to get it to stop bleeding. I took the hemostat and pinched the umbilical cord about 2 inches from the base of the pups belly then cut the cord rather than let Raven chew it off. I kept the hemostat on the cord for about 2 minutes to let it clout. The umbilical cord dries up quickly and then within a day or 2 it falls off. Raven was a good mama and took care of her poops. Puppy eyes and ears are closed at this stage and puppies army crawl around the whelping box looking for a teat to suckle. We did everything we could to make sure our pups stayed warm by adding a watt heat lamp to the whelping box and portable heating unit in the puppy room. As I mentioned Raven stayed in the whelping box most of week 1 and of course… the puppy piles! One thing I learned is if I had a puppy on my lap then do not let Raven lick those areas or be prepared for a little accident on your lap. While caring for Raven and her litter Raven was really blowing out her coat that first week, but as time went on it slowed down. I heard from other friends this is common and that Raven blew out her coat much less than other mama dogs. We got Probiotics for Raven before her first litter, but forgot to order them for her second litter. After an upset stomach for the first week or so we realized our mistake, got Probiotics, and no more upset tummy. Week 2 — Pups eyes are opening starting to waddle. Week 3 — First bark! Week 7 — The great puppy escape artists! Week 8 — Our golden puppies head to their new homes. Have you ever had a litter of Golden Retriever puppies? Tell us about your experiences with puppies in the comment section below. Are you about to raise a litter of puppies? Not raising a litter, but getting ready to bring home your first Golden Retriever puppy? Puppies for Dummies will give you the basics on how to raise and train your new puppy. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining. If you would like to have the puppy held for you, make a deposit online. You are certainly welcome to select your puppy this way without a deposit, but please note that availability may change on a daily basis. If you come and see the puppy, make your purchase and take the puppy home if the puppy is 8 weeks old or older. Skip to 6, unless you need to arrange travel for your pup. Connect with us and we will get the right information to deliver the puppy to you and set up the exact date and time. Enjoy the new puppy that you have adopted into your family. If you have any questions, please reach out to the breeder for help! How much is a Golden Retriever puppy, and why do the prices on the website vary? The price depends on the credentials of the parents and the number of puppies available at the time. This allows you to set up an appointment that fits both your schedule and that of our breeders. Our golden retriever puppies are all raised by families in the Northeast Ohio area, conveniently located about an hour and a half from both Cleveland and Columbus. This makes it easy to come visit our puppies and spend time playing with them in a home environment. How can I get puppy travel arranged if I am out of state? A little-known fact about golden retriever puppies is that they actually do very well with travel. Check out our puppy travel page here to find out more about how we go the extra mile. How do you raise your dogs? When buying a golden retriever puppy, the people who bred and raised them can have a big impact on the health and sociability of the dog! Because of this, we are dedicated to choosing caring, dedicated golden retriever breeders in Ohio who will get your pup started on the right track. Our small network of breeders in Ohio all are dedicated to the same principles. This starts by providing carefully-planned breedings to ensure the best pedigree for our pups. They raise healthy, socialized pups that can make a smooth transition to a new home. Most of our breeders actually have young children at home who help raise the puppies and play with them so they can become socially adjusted. How do I leave a review of my Golden Retriever experience? These beautiful English Golden Retriever puppies came into the world in the wee hours of July 10th. They will be ready to join their new families September 2nd. We have only two females available but several male pups. To reserve your puppy please call Older Golden Retriever Puppies in Training for sale At present, we have one 8-month-old puppy who are actively engaged in training. He has already displayed remarkable progress, having mastered vital skills including crate training, leash etiquette, and a repertoire of fundamental commands such as Sit, Stay, Back Up, Leave it, Off, and Down. Furthermore, they have been successfully trained to utilize a doggy door for their outdoor requirements. Initially groomed for their potential as therapy dogs, these remarkable puppies also possess the qualities of exceptional pets. Their training regimen comprises tailored individual sessions twice a week, accompanied by group training sessions twice a day. If you are in search of a puppy with a solid foundation of training work already completed, we urge you to contact us for more detailed information. Dexter: Male Happy, playful, freakishly smart, Confident Ready for adoption. Submissive, very smart, loves to play ball and "follow me" Pure sweetness. International Champion Bloodlines, Great health clearances, This is our 6th generation. These puppies are potty trained, know the command Sit, backup, leave it and more. They have had Early Neurological Stimulation and pre therapy dog training not to mention hours and hours of love. Ready for homes now. Watch us grow : birth to 8 weeks Moments after birth. Immediately following birth, Mini Golden Retrieves have the newborn look with their eyes closed and are not very active. They are born with the signature golden coat and will spend most of their time sleeping or eating. At this time their first 2 vaccinations are usually administered and your Mini Golden Retriever puppy is given at least one deworming treatment. The puppies start getting slightly more active but they might still be slightly wobbly while walking around. Their first bark can be heard but often times they will not be making much noise. Puppy Development: Mini Golden Retrievers at 8 Weeks At around 8 weeks old which is about the time you will be wanting to take your Mini Golden Retriever puppy home your puppy will have developed beautifully! Take a look at this picture to give you an idea of what to expect and check out our photo galleries to see many examples of Mini Golden Retrievers! At this stage, you are definitely seeing growth and typically the puppies are fully weaned by this time. They are now quite a bit more active; they are starting to tussle with each other and are enjoying their life. By interacting with them daily, giving them attention, and talking to them, the puppies are usually quite socialized and love wagging their tail. At 8 weeks another vaccination round is given and your Mini Golden Retriever puppy is dewormed. Of course, they have found their voice and started barking to communicate with you and their littermates. Usually, the puppies just start wagging their tails like crazy when they want attention as the Mini Golden Retrievers are typically not big barkers. Puppy Development: Mini Golden Retrievers at 12 Weeks Once the Mini Golden Retriever puppies enter into the age range of about 12 weeks, your puppy will have changed quite a bit! They will be growing fast. At this point, we like to have most or all of our Mini Golden Retriever puppies adopted to their new home and be well adjusted to their families. Potty training might be done by now or well underway along with some tricks and commands being taught. The new family will have introduced their new Mini Golden Retriever puppy to their vet by this time to get them familiar with their new doctor. This is one of the most enjoyable stages of puppy development; your puppy's personality will be shining and you'll be well on your way to having a fur-ever best friend! Puppy Development: Mini Golden Retrievers at 16 Weeks By the time your Mini Golden Retriever puppy is 16 weeks old, you will start to notice more maturity but don't worry! There will still be that puppy playfulness and orneriness that'll keep you laughing. At this point, your Mini Golden Retriever pup is probably well settled in and in a daily routine. Of course, by now you'll definitely notice it takes a bit more food to keep your puppy full than it did to start with! Your puppy might be given another vaccination along with the rabies vaccination at their next trip to the vet to keep them safe from dangerous diseases. From camping trips to having your friends over, your Mini Golden Retriever puppy should fit in quite well and be an amazing companion. The color of your puppy when born will be pretty similar to what it looks like at this age stage but it may be slightly darker. Not all puppies are the same! Some have a dark golden coat, some have a light cream. All are beautiful! By now you can have taught your Golden pup all kinds of things sit, stay, down, shake, etc. Your dog is part of your family and needs to be vaccinated yearly for Parvo and Rabies per your vet's suggestion. By maturity, we like to see them about 33 to 42 pounds so that you still have the desired disposition of a Golden Retriever on a smaller scale. We like to think Mini Golden Retrievers are more suitable for families and individuals who need the convenience of a smaller dog but the personality of a large one! Please note: Not all Mini Golden Retriever puppies grow to the same size or at the same speed. Our puppy development stages are to give you an idea of what your puppy may look like as he or she grows. Are you ready to start your own fairytale with a Mini Golden Retriever? Click the button below to view our available puppies! Scroll below the pictures to read about developmental information for newborn puppies. Developmental Information The average newborn Golden Retriever puppy weighs about 14 ounces. They are totally dependent on their moms. Their eyes and ears are closed and they depend on their already developing sense of smell to find their moms. They cannot walk, but rather scoot around on their bellies. During these first days, the mom is the primary caretaker. In fact, usually the moms are hesitant to leave the box even for potty breaks. The mom will not only keep them fed, but cleans them as well. However, newborn puppies need us humans for the best possible chance of surviving and thriving. We take turns keeping watch over the puppies for the first two weeks, including overnight. Puppies are so small at this age that without supervision, it is very common for the mom to accidentally lay on one of them. We handle them often and start clipping nails weekly at one or two days of age. We also give them daily probiotics which keeps their digestive system strong. At three days, we will start ENS early neurological stimulation. We ask families to wait until puppies are at least two weeks old before making definite plans and booking flights to pick up puppies. Primary Sidebar Breeders and Trainers of English Golden Retrievers We focus on breeding and training beautiful English Golden Retriever puppies with health tested champion parents, great pedigrees, and fantastic temperaments.

These tips will also help you to advance your dog so that, eventually, you can trust them to be off the leash in a safe area. Don't release your dog until they can demonstrate knowledge and obedience on the long leash and in many different settings. To begin with, walk them in the house and in the yard. Dogs learn 'contextually and by repetition'. These hints will help you to become the pack leader. Be certain that this is only reason that your dog will follow you. Make time to walk your dog Whether you walk your dog in the morning or evening will be influenced by your program. Whenever you exercise your dog, the walk should allow for 'focused time' and 'free time'. Two leashes will facilitate this. If they are under 12 months old, take some water with you. Also take a back-pack and a treat belt available on Ebay. I recommend no more than thirty minutes of walking in total for a dog under 14 months old as their growth plates are not set until this time. Be careful of overly vigorous activity, particularly if you have an older but playful dog. I don't recommend running for more than very short bursts for the same reason. Healthy hips and elbows are critical for a healthy, active and long life. Use two leashes - a long leash approx 7m and a short leash approx 1m Start your walk with the labrador pup on a short leash. The short leash will help you to direct and guide the dog. This allows you to maintain full control over your dog. Set up your walk for success. Start by getting the dog to sit or at the least be stationary and under your control. As you begin, keep your dog behind your body alignment. Be patient and encourage your dog. Do not show aggressive frustration. This will only cause confusion and fear or aggression. If your dog is not complying, stop and reset. You are the master Walking in front of your dog demonstrates that you are the master or the pack leader. You should be first out the door. The dogs should exit the compound only at your command. This is essential whether you are walking 1, 2 or more dogs. If your dog controls the pace and direction of the walk, they are the pack leader. Your dog should be beside or behind you during the walk. Dogs learn contextually The next two hints are important training essentials. Firstly, labradors learn contextually and their training in not immediately transferable to a new environment. Using the same disciplines and routines, train your dog the same way in different settings. This will entrench your expectations. Correct immediately Secondly, a labrador has about a five second retention of information. After five seconds the dog has lost any association between your assertiveness and their behaviour. If they disobey you, you must correct them within five seconds or not at all. If the dog is disobedient or simply does not understand, reset and start again. The long leash I'm a big fan of the long leash. A long leash will help you to correct bad behaviour at a distance. After a period of training with the short leash, remove it and connect the longer lead. Keep the leash in your hand, releasing it slowly and progressively. As they master this, you can back away while the dog is 'sitting and staying'. Reward your labrador pup with vigorous affection and a treat. After this, you should allow them to wander and sniff around. All this time you will keep your dog on the long leash and under your control. Be sure that the free time is less than their focus time. During the socialisation phase, 8 - 16 weeks, you will need both leashes as you expose your labrador pup to other dogs. As you walk your dog, you will come across small and large dogs that are aggressive. Walking on either leash will give your complete control. And it will ensure safety at all time. You new labrador pup has no innate road sense. Walk them, getting close to roads. Expose them to vehicles so that they do not panic. Reward your dog for good behaviour. Remember that dogs register tones and frequencies, not words. Use higher tones to affirm, reward and encourage. You approval is the greatest reward for a Labrador. Direct eye contact without high vocal affirmation will be interpreted as aggression. Use lower growling tones to reinforce disapproval. Try to avoid 'No' as a command. It is too general and therefore confusing to the dog. Always reward and reinforce obedience to specific commands. Use food treats to begin with, however you must gradually phase them out. Your vocal affirmation and affection should be your longer term goal. As your dog maintains the proper behaviour, reward them with treats. Reward your dog after the walk I recommend that you reward your labrador pup after the walk. Let them have a drink firstly then give them a portion of food that is less than a meal but more than a treat. It will not take long for your dog to anticipate the whole experience. When you appear with the leashes, they will become very enthusiastic. If you adhere to these eight hints and maintain the discipline of your training, you and your dog will value and enjoy the experience. Finally, remember to pick up after your dog. Don't go on a walk without your poop bags on hand! Find a vet you can have confidence in. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Whether young or old, big or small, yellow, black, chocolate, from field lines or show lines, your Labrador needs exercise. It will keep their heart and muscles strong, their mind stimulated and their weight under control. But how much exercise does a Labrador need? Labradors Are a High Energy Breed The Labrador Retriever is a high energy working breed, initially bred for very physically demanding work retrieving game for hunters. This would involve all day hiking, running and swimming in sometimes difficult conditions. So Labrador Retrievers were bred to have lots of energy and be very active. And though their main role in life today is as a family pet, they still have those same genetics that made them suited to their original role. Dog Ball Thrower. Yes, you can throw a tennis ball extra far with the Chuckit, but two reasons why I love it: 1. In this state they will often resort to destructive behaviors such as digging and chewing…and will often be very restless, may bark excessively and try to escape your home and garden at every opportunity. Insufficient exercise can also lead to weight problems with Labradors. Excess weight is a problem because it can lead to all sorts of problems such as damage to their joints hips and elbows , heart disease, increased blood pressure and increases the risk of diabetes. So a lack of exercise leads to behavioral problems, hyperactivity and possibly an assortment of health problems. However, as a general rule of thumb, a normally healthy adult Labrador Retriever will need 1 hour of exercise every day. The more relaxed Labs just 45 minutes per day, the more energetic 1. This can be made up of running, swimming, playing fetch , jogging alongside you…anything that goes beyond a gentle walk. But if the first consideration is your Labradors age, how much do puppies and the elderly need? Nice for long runs with your Lab. If you have older dogs or children, the puppy may well try to keep up with them and over-exert themselves, playing to exhaustion and damage their developing joints. So keep an eye on them and interrupt play if need be, to give them plenty of rest. Once they are fully grown, they can go out for much longer. The 5 minute rule should be sufficient to keep your lab puppy fit, burn off excess energy yet not over-exert them and cause possible developmental issues. Continue the 5 minute rule until your puppy is at least one year of age where you can then begin to exercise them more vigorously. This is highly dependent on your labs overall health and can vary wildly from one Labrador to another. Some labs may need to slow down from the 7th year onwards, while others remain extremely active beyond their 10th year. As Labradors get older, many develop arthritis, dysplasia and other health issues that can prevent a Labrador from enjoying or needing exercise as much as they used to when young and healthy. They will likely still try to chase a tennis ball all day and hike mountains just to please you, even if it may be doing them more harm than good. Try not to put them in this position. As your Labrador ages, you need to be more observant , looking for changes in their movement, excessive panting, slowing down, feeling tired. And during grooming sessions and massage, check for any painful spots indicative of sore joints or other problems. We noticed Linus was stiff getting up in the morning and decided to try adding glucosamine to his diet. We saw a noticeable difference a few days later and an added spring in his step. If your Labrador tears around your home like a tornado. If your Lab displays any of the restless and destructive symptoms described above, try increasing their levels of exercise for a few days and see if their behavior problems improve. However, if you have money burning a hole in your pocket you might want to check out PetSafe Automatic Ball Launcher. Over-exercising very young and elderly Labradors can do more harm than good. For your adolescent and adult Labrador, exercise them well. As a general rule of thumb, aim for 1hr per day and scale this up or down depending on your Labradors individual needs. This could mean 45 mins for the more sedate and elderly, or 1. And at the end of the day, think of it like this: You have the best exercise machine to rival that of any gym to keep you fit and healthy yourself. And hey, what fun!!! What better motivation and need is there to keep yourself in shape? Do you mostly agree with the above? Please let us know in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. While naturally athletic and full of energy, they need to be well exercised in order to expend their high energy. Labrador needs to be trained and exercised from the time they are puppies, otherwise, they can become destructive and difficult to control. A well-trained and healthy Labrador can also excel as service and guide dogs. In fact, the military and the police consistently use Labradors in search and rescue, hunting and as performance dogs. To realize the full potential of a Labrador they should be exercised regularly and correctly as puppies. In this article, we will show you how you can exercise your Labrador puppy so that it grows into the perfect companion for you. To learn more about this fascinating field, be sure to check out our in-depth article, Labradors as Service and Therapy Dogs. They were ideal for the task as they can run chase and swim in some of the most difficult conditions. This quality, combined with their strong sense of smell and sturdy body structure, makes them ideal for demanding physical work. While currently, they are the most popular choice as indoor family dogs, they are genetically programmed to handle high-energy activities. Their bodies crave lots of physical activity and if they are not given opportunities to expend their high energy they can become destructive. Labradors Gain Weight Easily Labs are strong and sturdy dogs and, consequently, tend to be voracious eaters. A lack of exercise can easily cause them to put on the extra pounds. An overweight Labrador is prone to all sorts of health problems and excessive weight may lead to issues like heart problems, hip, and joint damage, increase blood pressure, etc. An obese Labrador cannot be a helpful member of your family, nor can it achieve its full physical potential. To have your Labrador mature into a good companion and be of service, he must be in good health. Involving your Lab in activities that fit his genetic makeup is the key to keeping him in good health. Hyperactivity and destructive behavior A lack of activity can cause your Labrador to become bored and can result in hyperactive behavior. If they have not been exercised well from the time they are puppies it may lead them to become disobedient and uncontrollable as mature dogs. Their naturally pleasant personalities can turn sour with excessive barking, restlessness, and hyperactivity. Most owners become puzzled when their Labradors exhibit personality problems, unaware that the cause of this is rooted mostly in the lack of proper exercise and properly expending energy as puppies. Loss of Muscle Mass Since Labradors are genetically muscular and well-built, lack of exercise can harm their natural body shape as they lose muscle tone. This can also lead to impaired organ function and can also have an impact on their nervous systems. After their first three months, however, you will need to provide avenues for expending their ever-increasing energy. After 3 months of age, a puppy needs a minimum of at least 45 minutes to 1 hour of exercise per day. As the puppy matures, you can gradually increase his activity levels. At 4 months old, begin with 5 minutes of planned, regular exercise per day. After that, increase his exercise gradually by 5 minutes for each additional month of age. When your Lab hits its first year, you can also consider a well-planned exercise regimen in addition to his daily natural playtime. This dedicated exercise time will become increasingly necessary as your Labrador moves into adulthood. With his increasing levels of energy, it may become increasingly difficult to control him. Walking is a low impact exercise and can easily be done almost anywhere. No equipment is necessary and most owners can engage in this activity along with their puppies. All puppies enjoy running. It may be too early for the puppy to run with you but you can certainly do a few minutes of running a day with the puppy so that he gets used to it. While most dogs are on a leash you will also see that some owners manage to train their dogs to run beside them without a leash. This is achieved by training the dog when it is a puppy. So some early running is advisable but not too much in the initial months. It is an excellent activity and is loaded with lots of adventure for your puppy. Regular hiking trips on a mountain trail or through forested areas can bring great joy to your Labrador puppy as there are a lot of interesting scents and scenes that are exciting for them. Just be aware that may be difficult to keep them on the path at first as they will be eager to chase after anything that moves. Labradors are natural swimmers and their bodies develop excellently if swimming is added into their exercise regimen. Swimming is a full-body exercise and strenuous enough to expend all the energy of the puppy. Initially, you should limit the swim time in order to ensure that the dog does not overtire itself. Swimming also cools down the puppy and they get a lot of pleasure playing in the water. Related: But is it true that all Labradors are naturals when it comes to water? Playing fetch. Lab puppies love to play fetch. All Lab owners inevitably find this out and it is often the most preferred type of play for your dog. Labradors, with their natural retrieving trait, usually take to this game early on. All you need is their favorite toy to throw and a lot of space for the puppy to run and fetch the toy. Usually, owners use toys like balls or sticks but the beauty of the activity is that almost any object can be used for this game. Agility training. This exercise is more for puppies whom the owners would like to prepare for competitions. Agility training involves activities such as the puppy going through walkways, tunnels, and hurdles to reach the other end. This requires a proper agility training course and the puppy has to be trained to engage in the activity. It is advised that Labrador owners wait until the puppy is at least one year to start agility training activities. It is a common sight to see dogs and owners playing Frisbee, in playgrounds and yards. Frisbees is an exciting activity for your puppy that engages all his muscle groups. It includes jumping, leaping and running, all of which are important and healthy activities for a Labrador. This also involves their favorite pastime, retrieving, which Labrador puppies will enjoy. Ensure that the Frisbee is light and flexible as it can harm the puppy if thrown with force. How to Exercise Your Lab Puppy Indoors While most owners can take their puppies outside for exercise, some may not be able to do this. This could be due to extreme weather conditions like rain, snow or heat, or just the lack of accessibility to open areas, such as if you live in an apartment complex that does not have a pet-friendly facility. It can be difficult in these cases to ensure that the puppy gets the exercise it needs but there are ways to get around this inconvenience. Here are some ways you can exercise your puppy indoors. Use a treadmill. While it may seem surprising for many, a puppy can be trained to use and enjoy a treadmill. While it may not happen immediately, you can get the dog used to the treadmill slowly. Start with getting them used to the sight and sound of the treadmill in action. Briefly put the puppy on the treadmill. Try this for only around 5 minutes at first and then increase the time gradually. Once the puppy gets adjusted to the activity you can increase the pace for an adequate workout session. Play fetch. It can be tricky when you play fetch indoors as space is constrained and there could also be accidents and breakage of valuables. So it is best to prepare a fetch course for the puppy. Clear out parts of the house so that there is a clear path for the puppy to run without breaking or hitting anything. You may not have enough room in your place to create a long running path but that is okay. It may be difficult to do for one hour and may become boring for the puppy. It can be combined with other indoor activities to provide adequate exercise time and fun. Obstacle courses. Since an indoor exercise area can be limited you can maximize your indoor space to do more with it. An ideal way to accomplish this is with an obstacle course. You can create an obstacle course with everyday objects and supplies found around the house. For example, old tubes and cardboard boxes for tunnels, chairs for jumping across, stools for climbing, etc. Plan out your own course in a way that makes the puppy to crawl, jump, run and climb. Initially, the puppy may not get the idea but with effective use of treats and encouragement can help it learn. While not necessarily the best exercise for the puppy, it is certainly good for the overall strength and muscle building. The neck, jaws, legs, and torso get a good workout with some intense tug of war activity. It is also great fun for both the owner and the pup. A good way to start a tug of war is to wait until the puppy is biting or chewing a non-food object — anything that will not encourage the puppy to chew on inappropriate household items. Hold on to one end of the object and start pulling. The puppy usually cannot resist pulling off the object from your hands. This will lead to a tug of war and the more you engage in it the puppy will find it thrilling. Hide the treat. This is another fun activity and will keep your puppy active. You can take any treat that the puppy likes, have them smell it, and then quickly run with it and hid it in hard to get a place like under the rug on a slightly high chair or table or behind a door. When you hide it does ensure that it is not impossible by slightly difficult to reach. If it is impossible to reach the puppy may lose interest in the game. Also, ensure that you do not place in areas that can be potentially risky of the puppy. Other than these you can come up with many fun games to keep your puppy active, like playing with bubbles or playing hide and seek. The two puppies will naturally play and exercise with each other. Depending on the age you can have longer durations but do not engage in any exercise before the first 3 months are completed. In the fourth month, you can start with 5 minutes of playing, throwing the ball, or walking. Walking is easier if the puppy does not yet know how to do fetch. Continue doing this at approximately the same time each day so that the dog is accustomed to and ready for the activity. Choose a schedule that works best for you and that you can keep consistently — such as after you come home from work or early in the morning. In the fifth month, you can increase the time to 10 minutes. Do not worry if the exercise is not continuous in the beginning. Maybe you can get the puppy used to the leash and lightly jog along with it. In the sixth month, you can increase the time to 15 minutes with a greater intensity of activity. By this time you will also notice that the puppy has gained a lot of energy and can do the activities with vigor. Following this pattern, you can increase his exercise time a few minutes each month so that by the fifteenth month the puppy will be getting an intensive 1-hour exercise daily. Choosing Activities for Exercising the Labrador Puppy Most new Lab owners are unsure about which exercises to choose for the puppy. The best course is to initially try out a variety of exercises. Maybe you can switch activities every three days. Try walking a few days, the other days jogging and then throw and fetch. As you progress and the puppy engages in more activities you will find a few that the puppy enjoys the most. When that is identified try to include those more. Always remember that mental stimulation is equally as important as physical activity, so come up with interesting activities and add variety every once in a while. Do not force the puppy to do activities that they dislike. Also, if some days the puppy does not seem energetic or is sick you can skip those days. The activity should be tiring but not exhausting; a good way to gauge this is to check if the puppy is enjoying the activity and is fully involved. If its interest seems waning them maybe it is time to stop or change the activity. Keep It Fun Puppies only want to have fun. Make sure that all the activities are not just what you enjoy but what is enjoyable for the puppy. Otherwise, they may get frustrated and stop cooperating with you. Include treats and praise whenever they accomplish something. Also, include an ample amount of both physical affection and verbal affirmation. This will make the activity more enjoyable for the puppy. Keep fun as the central theme and good health will be the result. If the puppy seems ill or in pain, it is best to not exercise that day. You can choose a milder form of activity like a leisurely walk if you are unsure. Slow and steady is a good rule to follow. Have the right equipment for exercise whether it is a toy or a leash and take adequate safety precautions While swimming is an excellent exercise, do not force the puppy into water. Let him get used to the water gradually before making him swim. Initially, if the puppy cannot swim, a life jacket or any floatation device could be used for safety. Do not take the puppy outdoors if the weather conditions are extreme. Avoid exposing the puppy to any extreme weather condition be it rain, heat or snow. Do activities indoors on those days. In warmer seasons, early morning and late in the day are ideal for outdoor activities. Try to take the puppy for outdoor exercise during those times to avoid overheating. Keep plenty of water available if you are engaging in outdoor activities. Take frequent breaks, especially if the activity is too strenuous or is new to your puppy. Check the puppy for scrape and bruise after the activities. In the activities, if the puppy hurts itself take necessary steps for its care. Check with the vet before you start on an exercise regimen and keep the vet updated on your observations If you have the puppy on a leash try to not jerk or pull on the leash suddenly. It can hurt you as well as the puppy. Do not pull on the leash too hard to curb the puppy from going towards any object or animal, instead, you can physically pick up the puppy and move away from the distraction. When running or walking on remember that the paws of the puppy may need time to toughen up and may hurt sometimes. Pavements can be very hot on summer days even after the heat subsides, so be alert to how the puppy reacts. Because puppies are covered in fur, watch signs of excessive panting or wet paw prints sweat glands tend to be near the paws Try to have softer surfaces for walking or running like a lawn or soft sand. Too much of anything is never good — including exercise. There is an active debate going about the optimum amount of exercise for puppies. While everyone agrees that exercise is necessary the limits have not yet been clearly defined. It is better to err on the side of safety. A good 15 minutes to one hour depending on the age of the puppy is recommended. Beyond that, it depends on the fitness and endurance of the particular puppy and the activity itself. It would also be better to split up the time between morning and evening. This will ensure that you do not overtax the puppy. Do remember also that the puppy will be active during the day too so too much activity may tire out the puppy and lead to injuries as well. There is no easy approach or any hard and fast rules. It is better to let common sense influence your decisions in this matter. Also, talk to a vet and get his or her opinions as they will have greater insights into the condition of the puppy. No, if you are feeding a balanced and nutritious diet then the exercise alone does not warrant increasing its food intake. In fact, this may have adverse effects and lead to unnecessary weight gain. It is better to also seek advice from your vet in this matter before changing anything. If a Lab owner is unable to properly exercise their puppy then it would be better to hire someone to do this. While the owner is the best person to exercise with the puppy, life situations and work-related inconveniences can lead to an inability to exercise the puppy. In such cases, someone who will properly care for your puppy, like a relative, a family friend, or an agency that offers such services can be given this responsibility. Exercising your Labrador puppy can be a fun activity but what also matters is the bonding and enjoyment that result from this activity. A good exercise regimen benefits the owner as well as the puppy. So commit today to exercise your Labrador puppy and watch it grow into a good-natured, happy, and healthy dog. Since that seemed unbased in hard science and more on opinion sure, there were a few "science" and research backed studies but nothing convincing: I mean, really, who's actually funding that type of thing, ha ha , I finally shut out the noise and used common sense. Example: My kid slept through the night by three months using no newfangled sleep training techniques! Luckily, he's not emotionally damaged or not attached to me or anything - at least not yet, he's not old enough to blame me for his problems! So, I've been unable to get consistent advice on this whole exercise thing. When did this theory 5-minute rule originate? What formal study was done, using tests and controls to say, "Yes, this is a guideline we saw in XYZ breeds at XYZ ages using XYZ time limits, finding that joint health in senior dogs occurs when this happens? I know, I know, this is my cross to bear as an academically trained researcher and information science person. So, with my 15 week puppy, I've decided to go with common sense. No excessively rough play, no five-mile hikes or jogs, etc. Just good ol' fashioned no-strings-attached fun. Because of my confusion I'm terrified I'm damaging my dog!! Same thing when I was getting my kid to sleep. I draw this parallel because in both instances, the root of each theory was to avoid "damage" in any way. I'm not being inflammatory at all, just it's my response to the conflicting advice I've been hearing. I also know if that's all Mindy got, she'd be miserable! I did read Pippa's book and love the site - this is just my response to it all. I also wonder how many people are truly adhering or even aware of this guideline and still have healthy dogs, or the reverse. Causation can't always be correlation. Any thoughts? Exercise, Growth, and Joints Exercise Labradors not only love exercise, they need exercise. We all look forward to taking our puppy for a walk, however it is important not to over-exercise your puppy. In natural play, puppies will romp until they are tired and then stop to lay down for rest. When walking a puppy on a leash, they cannot stop when they normally would for rest. Too much exercise or walking can severely damage their bone and joint structures irreversibly. This should be taken seriously. THE RULE is: No more than 5 minutes of exercise for every month of age So that means, at 2 months old 8 weeks , your puppy only needs to exercise or walk for 10 minutes per day. At 3 months of age 15 minutes of exercise and so on. If you walk your puppy too far too soon, your puppy may develop hip and elbow dysplasia as they get older. Labradors have been known to develop dysplasia younger than other breeds of dogs. In many of these cases, it is often due to environmental factors such as over-exercise, running on hard or strenuous surfaces such as concrete or sand , continual jumping or agility work. Things to avoid with your puppy: No jumping in or out of car, especially larger cars. Lift the dog or use a ramp. No throwing balls or frisbee great distances for your puppy to chase. The sudden stopping and over reaching with the front legs is dangerous. No agility, jumping or flyball before years old Do not let other dogs knock or push the puppy over continually, includes body-slamming Avoid much stair climbing which can increase the risk of dysplasia No fast turns or roll-overs Good exercise: Swimming is great, since there is no weight-bearing impact on their joints. Remember, labradors love water! Walking on leash, for no longer than the recommended length of time for their age Self-directed play is an overriding rule for any puppy under 18 months old. The majority of exercise should be free play, exploring, and noodling around Hide and seek games are fantastic, as the dog can move at its own pace looking for its toy or treat or you. Size is a factor as large dogs, especially ones that like to play with paw whacks, can inadvertently injury a young puppy. Supervised play is critical. You need to teach the puppy a release command. All these games are forms of exercise for puppies and are a great way to help your puppy learn useful lifelong skills and qualities. Growth plates and bones: Development and injury Growth Plates Growth plates are soft areas that sit at the ends of the long bones in puppies and young dogs. They contain rapidly dividing cells that allow bones to grow longer until the end of puberty. Growth plates gradually thin as the hormonal changes approaching puberty signal the growth plates to close. In puppies, this closure normally completes between 18 to 24 months old in labradors. After sexual maturity, the growth plates calcify and the rapid cell division ends. The growth plates become a stable, inactive part of the bone, now known as an epiphyseal line. Dogs bones are held together with muscles, tendons and ligaments soft tissue. In an adult dog, if a joint experiences a stress such as bending the wrong way or rotating too much, the bones will hold firm and soft tissue will be pulled, resulting in a sprain or tear. Why this matters so much, is that unlike a sprain, injuries to the growth plate may not heal properly or not heal in time for the puppy to grow up straight and strong. Injury to a growth plate can result in a misshapen or shortened limb, which creates an incorrect angle to a joint resulting in yet more future injuries when he grows up, including dysplasia. These xray images show open and closed growth plates in a puppy and adult dog. Bone Strength In addition to having soft growth plates at the end of long bones, puppies bones in general are softer. Spiral fractures of the tibia lower leg bone are very common in puppies. A spiral fracture is where the bottom half of the bone twists in the opposite direction of the top half. Any exercise that puts torque twist on a bone puts the puppy at risk of a fracture. For an example, movements such as twisting and turning suddenly can cause these type of fractures. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia This is where we recommend you read our Health and Genetic Testing page, where we talk about hip and elbow dysplasia. It is critical that you, as a puppy owner, understand as much as you can about hip and elbow dysplasia, how you can help prevent it, and what your breeder should be testing for. On the other hand, an underfed or malnourished puppy or dog is also at higher risk of injury. Muscles mass directly influences strength, likewise inadequate calcium and nutrients affect bone density. A body condition score of about is healthy for a young puppy. Once an adult, the ideal body condition score would be about 5 for a healthy, fit labrador. Sterilisation Desexing In larger breeds, sterilising young puppies at a young age has shown to increase the risk of joint disorders and injury. We recommend sterilisation occurs between 24 months old for this reason. This recommendation is outlined in our Health Guarantee. We discuss this more under Desexing or Sterilisation. Tweet on Twitter Puppy exercise requirements vary between different types of dog, and as a puppy grows the exercise they need will increase. It is possible to give a puppy too much exercise so I will give you a puppy exercise chart, as a guide to how far a puppy can walk at different ages. Taking your new puppy for a walk We all look forward to the day we can take our new puppy for a walk. For many people, daily dog walks is a huge part of why they bought a Labrador in the first place. Others already take quite small puppies for quite long walks and are surprised to discover that many experts believe this to be a bad thing. So just how much exercise does a puppy really need? How much exercise does a puppy need? This rule of thumb says that a puppy should have no more than five minutes of walking for every month of his age. So that would be fifteen minutes a day maximum for a three month old puppy, twenty minutes for a four month old and so on. This concern about excessive exercise has arisen because it is widely believed that exercise is a factor in the development of serious joint disorders. Especially in larger breed puppies such as Labradors Breeders are particularly concerned about hip dysplasia, a serious and complex disorder of the hip joints, that is believed to be influenced both by inherited factors passed from dogs to their puppies and by environmental factors In addition to factors influencing growth rates, the stresses and strains placed on the vulnerable growing joint by excessive exercise are believed to be a contributory environmental factor in the development of inadequate hip joints. It seems likely, that a puppy that had inherited a tendency for poor hips, could have its soft and still forming hip joints made a good deal worse through prolonged or hard exercise. It is also possible that a puppy that has inherited excellent hips, will come to no harm whatsoever through hard exercise. On the contrary, a certain amount of free running exercise is a good thing Running off-leash A Norwegian study published and which included labradors, showed that puppies given the opportunity to exercise off leash in a park before the age of three months were less likely to develop hip dysplasia HD , not more. Stair climbing The same study showed that puppies that had to climb stairs on a regular basis during the same period were at increased risk of HD You can read about this study in Science Daily. So what does this study tell us? Well, it is only one study, but it suggests that playing in a natural way, with other pups or simply running about at their own speed is probably going to benefit a small puppy Strenuous exercise Whereas more strenuous activity such as climbing hills and stairs, may not be such a good thing at a very young age. Another study has suggested that running hard for a retrieve, may not be great for joint health either. And some breeders also prevent dogs from jumping for the first twelve months to reduce impact on the shoulder and elbow joints. This may be especially important for some of the heavier breeds of dog, and those that are slow to mature. How far should my puppy walk? But how does that translate to distances walked? If you like to think in distances rather than time, a mile is around steps for an adult human and takes about twenty minutes at a moderate walking speed. So a maximum walk for a four month old Labrador might be about a mile. And of course if you are walking out and back again, that means not taking the dog more than half a mile from your home or car, whichever is your starting point. With young puppies, you need to keep a balance. Think about the overall energy your puppy is expending rather than focusing on walking alone. Walking is only one form of exercise and is no more valuable or important than games or training exercises. If you have been to visit a friend with your five month old pup and their dog has played for half an hour in the garden with yours, your dog does not need a walk as well. It is the total exercise that counts. How much exercise is too much? And you are bound to know of someone whose puppy had far more exercise than this and came to no harm. However taking a puppy for long walks or asking him to negotiate very steep or uneven surfaces when he is little, is probably a bad idea. Beware of letting a puppy play for too long with an older dog that does not want to stop. And keep an eye on children who may inadvertently exhaust a puppy by encouraging him to play when he needs to sleep. Crating your puppy when he is tired or overexcited, will enable you to make sure that your puppy gets some well deserved down time. Summary Young puppies need the time and space to run about freely, and free running exercise is beneficial. You do not need to attempt to prevent puppies playing in the garden, trotting about the house or playing with another young puppy for a while. Provided that the puppy is free to stop and rest whenever he wants. As far as we know at the moment, formal exercise — walking on a lead — for example, is probably best restricted using the five minute rule as an approximate guide. And strenuous exercise such as stair climbing, and chasing balls should be limited or avoided altogether in puppies under three months of age. Remember, an adult dog can become an amazing athlete, but like all athletes, fitness and stamina are best built up in gentle stages if injury is to be avoided. Do talk to your vet about exercise at your first appointment with your puppy. We are still learning about hip dysplasia. Research is ongoing, knowledge increases all the time. Your vet should be up to date with the latest information regarding the optimum amount of exercise for your new puppy. Published in April , the Happy Puppy Handbook covers every aspect of life with a small puppy. It will help you prepare your home for the new arrival, and get your puppy off to a great start with potty training, socialization and early obedience. This article was originally published in and has been extensively revised and updated for References Slater et al. Diet and exercise as potential risk factors for osteochondritis dissecans in dogs. Am J Vet Res. Sallander et al. American Society for Nutrition. Krontveit et al. Risk factors for hip-related clinical signs in a prospective cohort study of four large dog breeds in Norway. Just like us, Labradors need plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Whether you have a young or old dog, they all need to get the blood flowing to stay healthy and live long happy doggie lives. Regular exercise with your Labrador is very beneficial for you both. Exercise stimulates neuron growth in the brain, encourages the production of endorphins with a known mood-boosting effect , helps strengthen your bones and muscles, improves blood pressure, and can significantly help with depression. Are you having a hard time figuring out how much exercise your lab needs? Answers vary drastically from one dog to another. The amount of exercise to give your Labrador depends mostly on the age of the dog. The key to taking your Labrador puppy out for exercise is to be patient. Some labs are athletic, and thus need more exercise than others. Also, certain Labradors are genetically programmed to be energetic and have high metabolism rates, whereas others are more laid-back. Here are some exercise guidelines a new lab owner can follow to make sure their dog gets the right workout. With older dogs or children, a lab puppy may well try to keep up with them and exhaust themselves before they reach their adult size and stamina. Hold off on structured games and other forms of heavy physical activity for the first three months. This will set the stage for long-term, healthy exercise habits. This rule states that you should take your Labrador puppy out for at least five minutes of exercise per month of age up to twice a day until he or she is fully grown. This can be anything from a walk around the block to a run in the dog park. How old your dog is will make a difference in their stamina. To determine how much exercise your dog needs, first take their age into consideration. Labs that are four years old and above need between one and two hours of exercise per day. The truth is Labradors can lead a perfectly healthy life with just an hour of daily active playtime. The Labrador Retriever was bred to retrieve game for hunters. That means they naturally love to play fetch. All you need is a toy for playtime and room for running around. Tug-of-War is less cardio-oriented but helps with muscle mass and body structure in growing dogs. Plus, they love it! It requires that you prepare your puppy with a proper agility training course. Agility training is great for completing a total-body, structured workout, while also providing mental stimulation for your labrador. This involves activities such as going through walkways, tunnels, and hurdles to reach the other end. You will need to train your lab to engage in the activity and this involves proper instruction. Find one that fits his size and abilities, as well as your own personal comfort level. Either due to space or having a small yard, it may be difficult to get their puppies out every day. The good news is that, with a little creativity, indoor exercise can be just as viable and fun! Here are a few ideas you can try at home. Try Treadmill Training Sessions With Dogs A dog can be trained to use a treadmill and enjoy it, but the experience will take time. Build an Obstacle Course for Your Labrador Use everyday things found around the home or office to create an obstacle course. It also boosts their energy levels and problem-solving skills. For example, you might use old boxes and trash bags to make a tunnel, chairs or stools to jump across, and other furniture for your puppy to climb. At first your puppy may not catch on, but with effective use of the treat and lots of encouragement, you can help it learn as it goes. Hide-and-Seek With a Treat! Hide a treat around the house, and let your puppy work to find it. As you hide treats around the room, remember to make sure they are not hiding somewhere that is unreachable. Tip 2. Make sure that all the activities are not just what you enjoy but what is enjoyable for the puppy. Otherwise, they may get frustrated and stop cooperating with you. Include treats and praise whenever they accomplish something. All dog breeds respond positively to lots of physical affection and verbal affirmation. This will make the activity more enjoyable for the puppy. Keep fun as the central theme and good health will flow. Tip 3. Make an Exercise Routine and Schedule for Your Dog Lab owners, take note: maintaining the health of an adult Lab is all about consistency. And this starts with walks at a young age. Take regular walks with your dog, no matter the weather conditions. Walk at the same time each day in order to create an exercise pattern that both you and your dog can stick to. Maybe you can get the puppy used to a leash and casually walk through your neighborhood with it. That way, you can vary the activity occasionally. In six months, increase the amount of time your dogs are running to 15 minutes. This keeps their energy high and stops weight gain as they mature. Conclusion As a dog owner, your foremost responsibility is protecting the health and safety of your pet. Insufficient exercise causes health problems in dogs , like hip dysplasia especially those already prone to hip or joint problems. Share on.

Black and tan, tan, liver, blue, black Activity level High; requires up to minutes of exercise daily Suitable for families Yes, for active families that can meet the exercise requirements Dietary needs High-protein diet; adults require approximately 1, to 1, calories per day depending on activity level Potential health issues Hip dysplasia, allergies, Patellar Luxation, arthritis, elbow dysplasia, and cataracts History of Rat Terrier The Rat Terrier is a breed of dog that was developed in the United States from a mixture of English Fox Terriers, Manchester Terriers and Smooth Fox Terriers. The Rat Terrier was initially bred for hunting rats and other vermin but is now also used as a family pet. As their name suggests, they were used to hunt rats in the US. However, when mouse baits and poison were invented in the s, their popularity declined. In the s, Rat Terriers again were in demand when they were crossed with other toy breeds like Chihuahua. The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in .The German Shepherd is one of the most popular breeds of dogs in the United States. Image Source: Dids — pexels. They have long tails and erect ears. They are considered an alert and active breed that is known for being loyal and protective of their family. Size The Rat Terrier Shepherd Mix is a medium-sized crossbreed that typically weighs between 40 and 65 pounds. This hybrid is known for being energetic, playful, and loyal. They make great family pets and are often used as service dogs. Rat Terrier German Shepherd Mixes are very versatile dogs and can be easily trained. This dog is known for being an energetic and playful breed that is great with children. They are also very clever and protective of their family. They have a lot of energy and need lots of exercise and stimulation. Grooming is also important for these dogs, as they tend to shed heavily. Rat Terrier x German Shepherd should be brushed at least once a week to keep their coat healthy and free of mats. In addition, they should be bathed regularly and have their nails trimmed. This dog has a lifespan of about 13 to 16 years. They are considered medium-sized dogs, and they weigh anywhere from 40 to 65 pounds. These dogs are known for their intelligence, athleticism, and loyalty. This mix can be great for families with children, as they are known to be protective and loyal. They are also very active dogs and need plenty of exercises. In terms of feeding, Rat Terrier cross German Shepherd should generally eat around two cups of food per day. This can be split between two meals, or given all at once. In general, German Terrier does well on high-quality dog food, though they may also enjoy a good home-cooked meal every once in a while. Rat Terrier Shepherd Mix should never be given table scraps, as this can lead to obesity and other health problems. Just make sure to start out slowly and work your way up to longer distances. Rat Terrier Shepherd mix make great pets because they are so versatile and can adapt to any situation. They are always up for a good game of fetch, a long walk, or an agility course. Training German Rat Terrier are a great new addition to your family. They are full of energy and love to play, but they also need plenty of training. GSD Terrier mix are smart dogs and will learn these commands quickly. These dogs need to know what is expected of them, and they need to be able to rely on you to give them direction. Treats and praise work best and will help your dog learn faster. It may take a little time for them to learn what you are asking of them, but they will eventually get it. German Shepherd Rat Terriers make great pets, and with a little training, they will be the perfect addition to your family. This disease can cause a lot of pain and discomfort for your dog and can eventually lead to arthritis. Allergies can cause your dog to have a lot of skin problems, and they can also be very itchy. If you think your dog might have allergies, take them to the vet so they can get some medication to help clear them up. Finally, another common disease among Rat Terrier cross breeds is cancer. Cancer is a very serious disease, and it can be tough to treat. If you think your dog might have cancer, take them to the vet as soon as possible so they can start getting treatment. Make sure you keep an eye on your dog and take them to the vet if you think they might be suffering from one of these diseases. Rat Terrier x German Shepherd are not often used as guard dogs, but they can be. They are very protective of their family and home and will bark to let you know when someone is coming. They may not be as big as some other breeds, but they will certainly let intruders know that they are there. Rat Terrier cross German Shepherd are also very clever and can be easily trained to do whatever you need them to do. If you are looking for a good guard dog, they may be the perfect choice for you! Is Rat Terrier German Shepherd a good family dog? Rat Terrier Shepherd mix makes great family pets because they are so loving and protective of their family. They are also very intelligent and can be easily trained to do whatever is required of them. If you are looking for a good family pet, a Shepherd Terrier may be an ideal choice. Some may be less, some may be more, depending on the breeder. Be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder who has healthy dogs with good temperaments. Remember, you get what you pay for! By doing your research and getting to know this breed, you can make an informed decision about whether or not a German Rat Terrier is right for you. They can be great companions, but they do require a lot of exercise and plenty of training. With the right care, however, they can make wonderful pets. Sergey Uhanov, a certified veterinarian, has authored all of the content here. With over 20 years of experience in dog care and breeding three dogs of his own, he has a deep passion for these furry friends. Sergey owns a pet clinic in Israel where he provides care and treatment to dogs. He enjoys sharing his expertise and knowledge to assist others in caring for their dogs. All content on this site is written by Sergey Uhanov who is an experienced veterinarian. For more information about Sergey, click here. As Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Lifespan Sociability In many cases, these dogs are not available from breeders. Some mixed breeds are popular enough to have breeders dedicated to them, but the German Shepherd Terrier is not one of them. Most dogs will come from accidental litters. A German Shepherd will accidentally end up breeding with a terrier, leaving the owner with a bunch of puppies to get rid of. As you might imagine, the puppies will often be extremely inexpensive. You may even be able to get them for free. However, they would not have undergone the genetic testing that breeders put their dogs through. Some backyard breeders produce this mixed breed, and they may be a better option than purchasing a puppy from an accidental litter. However, the quality of these puppies tends to shift a lot. There are few terriers that a German Shepherd can breed with, making accidental litters a bit difficult as well. Jack Russel Terriers are small, energetic dogs bred to hunt small rodents and protect farmland from pests. The American Staffordshire Terrier is a larger dog that was bred to fight other animals. They are largely kept as companion animals today, though they are also one of the few dog breeds that can handle wild boars and similar, dangerous animals. We recommend asking about the specific terrier used to produce the puppy before adopting them. The breed can affect their temperament significantly. In accidental litters, the identity of one parent may not be known. Some terriers are pretty large, which would produce a dog closer to the size of a German Shepherd. They may weigh as little as 20 pounds or as much as 60 pounds. Often, they are at least somewhat protective. Sometimes, they can be extremely protective, while this trait is less pronounced in other instances. Where their protective instincts fall depends on the genetics they inherit from both parents, as well as how they were raised. Dogs that are heavily socialized at a young age can often be friendly or at least not aggressive towards strangers. This canine will likely never be as friendly as a Labrador Retriever. Often, this breed is exceedingly intelligent. This makes them very easy to train. They are often very devoted to their owners and follow commands easily. However, it also means that they need regular mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Otherwise, they can become bored and destructive. With that said, most terriers are not as intelligent or trainable as a German Shepherd. They are still intelligent dogs. They require lots of mental stimulation and exercise. However, as long as you can meet their needs, these dogs are an excellent option for most experienced dog owners. Just be sure you can dedicate the time their temperament calls for before you adopt a puppy. Most are not scared of kids due to their larger size, especially if they have been socialized with children previously. However, sometimes, German Shepherd Terrier mixes can be pretty small. This weight is plenty small enough for some exuberant children to hurt. If a pound child falls on a pound dog, the dog could easily get hurt. Often, these dogs are great with members of their own family, including children. Be sure to keep this in mind if your child regularly has other kids over. The dog might not like them playing together very much, especially if things get a bit rough. In the end, it can be hit-or-miss with this mixed breed and smaller children. However, they are often great for active families with older kids. If you have small children, you may want to look elsewhere for a more appropriate breed. If you adopt these dogs as adults and know that they are on the larger end of the spectrum, they can be good in households with small children. Their protective instincts can be applied to unfamiliar dogs, especially if they come into their home. However, most are completely fine with dogs they have been raised with. However, it takes socialization to make your German Shepherd Terrier mix accept other dogs. We highly recommend puppy classes at an early age. Group classes are great for training and socialization. In fact, we recommend them primarily because they provide a great socialization opportunity that is safe and controlled. They will chase cats and anything else that they interpret as prey animals. Because this is an innate instinct and not fear-driven, socialization will not help you. They will still see it as something to chase. Feists and Italian Greyhounds helped as well. Considering a Rat Terrier mixed breed is a good idea because they are prone to a few health problems such as hip dysplasia and patellar luxation loose kneecaps Some of these issues may be less prominent and it may elongate their lifespan. Rat Terrier hybrids will do well with ample space to exercise and play along with high-quality dog food for a long, happy, healthy life. The Rat Terrier Chihuahua mix is affectionate, loyal, loves attention, and will make an overall great family dog. This mixed breed will typically have a short coat but could have a longer one from the Chihuahua parent. They get along well with others and are affectionate. However, they do have a strong prey drive, so they may want to chase the cat or other small pets you may have at home. They are curious and could be aloof from their Beagle parent, so training the Beagat Terrier will need to be met with patience. They have high energy levels and will need ample space and plenty of exercise and playtime. Be warned; this pooch has a smooth, double-coat that will shed a lot. Daily brushing to keep the loose hair at bay will be a must. They have a long spinal cord and small rib cage, leaving them pretty fragile. However, the Rat Terrier Dachshund mix is great with kids, energetic, and playful. They love attention but will enjoy some alone time now and then. The Poorat Terrier will get along well with others as long as they are trained and socialized early and well. Regardless of size, this pooch will be low maintenance with grooming. Whippet Rat Terrier mix This friendly and curious pooch will need early training and socialization to get along well with others. Grooming needs will vary, depending on which type of coat they inherit from the parent breeds. This doggo is playful, lively, and will make a great companion. They do love to dig, so be careful of your garden! The Shizurat is also energetic and will need ample exercise and playtime each day. This doggo is friendly and a good companion dog. Australian Shepherds are sweet while Rat Terriers are feisty, so it may be a perfect mix of the two. However, they are also stubborn and may be prone to separation anxiety. This doggo does require minimal grooming, thanks to its short coat. Having them on a leash or letting them romp in a fenced-in yard will be great for them. This crossbreed is also not hypoallergenic and will have moderate grooming needs. Shiba Inu Rat Terrier mix This medium pooch will have a short coat that will need weekly brushing. This Ratshire will have moderate grooming needs with its medium coat. This doggo is intelligent, affectionate, and playful. They may also have a strong prey drive, so early training and socialization will be good for them. This will diminish their high energy level. Depending on the coat it inherits, the Ratsky Terrier may have moderate grooming needs. The Rat Terrier Boston Terrier mix will be a small size, typically a perfect mix of both parent dog breeds. This doggo will need moderate grooming with weekly brushing. This mixed breed is easy to train and loyal. This small to medium-sized pooch will need moderate grooming. Pugs, like Bulldogs, have short noses. This doggo is intelligent, easy to train, energetic, and will be an overall great family pet. They love attention and may cause mischief around the house to get some. The Rat Terrier Cocker Spaniel mix will need a fenced-in yard to let loose and get out some of their energy. Having a hybrid will allow your pooch to have different personality traits and even different grooming needs. You can choose a hybrid that will work well with your family in terms of activity levels, as well. Do you have a Rat Terrier mix at home? Let us know in the comments below! With a background in animal science, dog training, and behavior consulting, her hands-on experience and extensive knowledge make her a trusted source for dog owners. When not writing or leading the K9 Web content team, Cess can be found volunteering at local shelters and participating in dog-related events. Leave a Comment. Rat Terriers were initially bred in the early s and originally came from the United Kingdom. Furthermore, Rat Terriers have their roots related to a hunting background. On the other hand, German Shepherds were generated in the latter part of the s to protect herds. As the name implies, these dogs were developed in Germany. Both parent breeds have their own extensive history, yet their hybrid version is not the oldest hybrid dog breed. Terrier cross breeding became demanded in the late s. They were developed to create dogs with unique looks and great personalities. Rat-Shepherds gained popularity in recent years. Most probably around the s. It is also clear that these two breeds have distinct appearances. So what would their mixed-breed look like? Rat-Shepherds could have more physical characteristics from one parent over the other or be a perfect blend of both breeds. Purebred Rat-Terriers are considered small-sized dogs, and German Shepherds are considered medium to large-sized dogs. Therefore, it is hard to pinpoint which category Rat-Shepherds belong to. Rat-Shepherds typically have a weight of pounds and a height of inches. They have short to medium length coat that often combines two to three colors, including black, white, brown, and tan. They have erect ears, sharp eyes, and slender yet muscular bodies, which add more boldness to their appearance. How big do Rat Terrier and German Shepherd mix get? As mentioned above, it is hard to predict exactly how big a Rat-Shepherd would get. Inheriting genes from a small dog breed and relatively a large dog breed, Rat-Shepherd often becomes a medium-sized dog. Therefore a full-grown, healthy Rat-Shepherd could have an approximate weight of 50 pounds and a height of inches. Genes are the primary determinant of their size. Meanwhile, few other external factors, such as nutritional food and physical activities, also impact the growth of a Rat-Shepherd to a reasonable extent. The measures could slightly differ due to the mentioned factors. Nonetheless, as we know, now these breeds have become trendy family dogs. These dogs are affectionate and loyal. Also, they have bold personality traits that they own. Therefore, Rat-Shepherds get a blend of these temperaments. Rat-Shepherds are active, energetic, tenacious, clever, and highly protective. Rat Terriers and German Shepherds are both energetic and lively dogs which undoubtedly makes their hybrid versions the same. On top of it, Rat-Shepherds are excellent watchdogs; hence German Shepherds have a great reputation as watchdogs. Sometimes they can be a little feisty due to the predator instinct they especially get from Rat Terriers. Rat-Shepherds are generally good around children and other pets, but early socializing is necessary. Raising them with proper training from a young age will make them great family pets. How long do Rat Terrier and German Shepherd mix dogs live? Rat-Shepherds typically enjoy a good life expectancy range thanks to the parent breeds. RatTerriers are considered one of the dog breeds with the highest life expectancy, around years. German Shepherds have a life span of years. So if your Rat-Shepherd is in good health condition, it will likely enjoy a life span of years. How much do Rat Terrier and German Shepherd mix puppies cost? The price of a Rat Terrier and German Shepherd mix could vary for several reasons. Previously mentioned factors could change their price. Therefore the cost of their hybrid version also varies accordingly. Usually, you will have to spend around US Dollars if you are willing to buy a quality Rat-Shepherd. However, you should never forget the duties and responsibilities you should fulfill as a dog parent. Maintenance is one of the crucial things to pay attention to when having a dog. You might feel like it will be hard to maintain a hybrid dog, but if you have a fair understanding of the maintenance of parent breeds, you can ace the job. Below you can find some valuable tips regarding the maintenance of Rat-Shepherds. Follow a grooming schedule Grooming schedule of a dog changes from breed to breed. Nevertheless, following a grooming schedule is very important no matter what breed they belong to. The good news is it is not tiring to maintain a grooming schedule for a Rat-Shepherd because these dogs require minimal grooming needs. Rat-Shepherds mostly get short to medium length coats. However, it will not be as dense as a purebred German Shepherd coat. Weekly brushing would be sufficient to maintain a healthy and smooth coat. These dogs can be prone to dental issues, so make sure to brush their teeth a couple of times a week to maintain their oral hygiene. It is also important to trim their nails and check their ears at least once a month. Rat-Shepherds could be affected by common health implications from both parents, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, and allergies. Feed good food, and make them exercise Nutritional food and plenty of physical activities are mandatory to ensure the well-being of a Rat-Shepherd. These dogs do not require complex dietary needs, but you must feed them with quality food as they have high energy levels. The number of calories that a Rat-Shepherd needs varies according to their body weight. Typically two to three cups of dog food would be sufficient per day. When it comes to exercises, you can simply take them for a walk or play with them for minutes. Also, try your best to be consistent with the exercise schedule. Final thoughts about Rat-Shepherd dog breed If you are a first-time dog owner, you might feel reluctant to get a hybrid dog because it is fair enough to think they could be a handful for an inexperienced dog owner. However, if you educate yourself with the basics, it will not be as complex as you think. Rat-Shepherds are the hybrid version of two all-time favorite dog breeds, Rat Terriers and German Shepherds. Whether you are a first-time dog owner or an experienced one, Rat-Shepherds will be a good fit for you. Rat-Shepherds will make affectionate, loyal, and protective family friends if you raise them with proper care. Hope you found this article helpful. Thank you for reading this article! Stay tuned with Jack Russell Owner for more interesting posts about your favorite dog breed. Author Lisa Watson Lisa W. One of her research fields is mixed-dog breeds and their temperament, behavioral issues, and genetic health concerns. Also, she gathers data about purebred dog breeds and their origin, lifespan, and genetic conditions. Lisa is a loving dog parent who is keen to share her expertise with other fellow dog parents. Parson Russell Terrier Fox Terrier Feists readily distinguish themselves from other hunters like hounds as they utilize air and ground scent as well as sight to track their quarry, and they pursue it silently. They often specialize in rodents and hares but are fierce enough to effectively corner larger game like wild pigs. Rat Terriers are treeing feists, meaning they often run animals like squirrels into trees and await their owners. They contributed fierceness and agility to the Bull and Terrier of the time even as they received additional speed from the Whippet and Italian Greyhound and pack social etiquette from the Beagle. Although largely replaced by Bull and Terriers and later Pit Bull Terriers for rat baiting in England, Rat Terriers would prove to have an exceptional affinity for rat control in the US. Rat Terriers suffered a population decline with the arrival of rat and mouse baits and poisons in the s. The terriers would make a comeback in the s, according to Rover. Their popularity was sealed when crosses with Chihuahuas and other Toy breeds increased their appeal as house pets, and their speed earned them a reputation in various competitions like agility and flyball. Your Rat Terrier German Shepherd mix may pick up the following background characteristics from the Terrier side. Very alert and active, high-energy Fast and agile High prey drive — tendency to chase animals who run Intelligent The Rat Terrier Shepherd could inherit several feist-like physical features Erect, button, or folded-tip ears Slender but muscular build — compact with relatively long legs; Beagle lines have shorter legs Short or bobtail Smooth coat with little or no underfur Rat Terriers are about 10 to 18 inches tall and weigh from 10 to 25 pounds with more people seeking dogs under 13 inches at the shoulders. They were traditionally black and tan, but like others in the feist group, they are now often tricolor with large areas of white. Rat terriers can also be calico, bicolor, fawn, chocolate, merle, or sable. Dilute colors like blue and Isabella or Pearl can appear with or without white markings and may also combine with merle. Bicolor dogs are usually black and white or red and white. Sable is similar to the color in Collies where at first glance a Rat Terrier may appear solid brown until you notice the black-tipped hairs or varying tones of red. German Shepherds contribute a background of drive and versatility When you imagine a working GSD you most likely picture a large athletic and beautiful dog with a single-minded purpose and drive. It may shock you that German Shepherds did not always make the best working animals. Max von Stephanitz chose a show dog named Hektor Linksrhein as the founding father of the German Shepherd breed. Hektor, who under von Stephanitz became Horand, embodied the beauty of the herding dog type and could also work in the field. However, many dogs of the Thuringian line were unfocused, unruly, difficult to train, and highly predatory and aggressive, according to Germanwatchdogs. Von Stephanitz brought dogs from the Wurttemberg and Swabian regions of Germany to add stability, size, work ethic, and weather resistance to his sire lines. German Shepherds developed an unparalleled ability to focus on work as well as versatility that made them useful during World War II when many other breeds were in severe decline. Your German Shepherd mix will likely inherit at least a couple of the following attributes from his GSD parent. Intelligence, obedience, and trainability. It's okay if this is an estimation: it is just a starting point. We then factor in your dog's breed composition, information at certain genes that affect size, and their inbreeding coefficient to calculate genetic age. Exercise and diet also play a role in how long your dog will live. Nevertheless, genetic age is the primary risk factor for numerous diseases in dogs, including cancer, kidney disease, osteoarthritis, cataracts, cardiac disease and cognitive decline. If your dog has recent wolf ancestors, you will see that in the breed mix report. Instead, the Wolfiness Score is based on the number of ancient genetic variants your dog has in our unique Wolfiness marker panel. These ancient genes may be a few thousand years old, or may even date back to the original domestication event 15, years ago. They are bits of a wild past that survive in your dog! These markers are thought to be related to "domestication gene sweeps" where early dogs were selected for some trait. For people with puppies, you probably want to know how big of a crate to buy or just how big to expect your dog to become. But genetic weight is also useful for people with fully grown dogs. Just like with people, overweight and obese dogs suffer reduced length and quality of life. They can develop chronic health conditions and suffer from limited mobility and other issues. How do we predict weight? How accurate is the predicted weight? Unlike in people, healthy weight in dogs is controlled largely by only a few genes. However, due to a few as-yet-undiscovered genes and genetic interactions that affect size, this algorithm sometimes misses. Occasionally it misses by a fairly large amount especially when a dog has a breed with an unknown size-influencing gene. This information will inform our ongoing research into the genetics of size and weight in dogs. Because they are inherited whole, your dog and his or her mom share the exact same maternal haplotype. Because most breeds were started with only a few individual dogs, many breeds are dominated by only one or a few haplotypes. These groups all originally descend from one male or female wolf, usually one that lived tens of thousands of years ago. Because they are inherited whole and not shuffled like other DNA, they can be used to trace the ancestral routes that dogs took around the globe en route to your home. Only male dogs have paternal haplogroups because they are determined by the Y chromosome, which only male dogs have. How are Max's ancestors represented in her DNA? All dogs are related and share some DNA. Siblings share lots of their DNA half of it in fact , cousins share a bit less an eighth , and so on. Because dog breeds are made up of a closed group of dogs, all dogs in that breed share a lot of their DNA, typically about as much as second cousins, though it varies by breed. Different breeds that are closely related share somewhat less DNA, and dogs from very different breeds share even less DNA but still much more DNA than either dog shares with a cat. DNA is inherited in pieces, called chromosomes, that are passed along from parent to offspring. Each generation, these chromosomes are broken up and shuffled a bit in a process known as recombination. So, the length of the segments your dog shares with her ancestors decreases with each generation above her: she shares longer segments with her mom than her grandma, longer segments with her grandma than her great-grandma, and so on. How does Embark know which breeds are in Max? We can use the length of segments Max shares with our reference dogs to see how many generations it has been since they last shared an ancestor. Long segments of DNA that are identical to known purebred dogs tell Embark's scientists that Max has, without a doubt, a relative from that breed. By testing over , genetic markers, we build up her genes one DNA segment at a time, to learn the ancestry with great certainty. Other dog DNA tests look at many fewer genetic markers and have to take a guess at breed ancestry based on that. What does this mean for Max's looks and behavior? The exact similarity depends on which parts of DNA Max shares with each breed. Embark will tell you even more about Max's traits soon! In these rare cases we contact the owner to find out more and let them know about their unique dog before they get their results. With this in-depth detective work, we are pushing science forward by identifying genetically unique groups of dogs. Still have questions? Let us know with our contact form or by email at howdy embarkvet. Some dogs descend from other dogs that were themselves mixed breed. These other dogs can give small contributions to the ancestry of your dog, so small that they are no longer recognizable as any one particular breed. Just kidding. But we do think supermutts really are super!

They have round skulls with a slight stop and wide-set ears that hang close to the head. They have long muzzles, and eye rims and noses are black or liver depending on coat color. Their oval-shaped eyes are typically any dark shade or dark amber, again depending on coat color. They have level toplines, long, elegant necks, and long legs. Their dense, curly coats come in almost any color, including white, cream, apricot, blue, cafe-au-lait, brown, gray, silver, black, and two-toned Parti-colored. Poodles are favored for their intelligence, which makes them easy to train. They may have a dignified, elegant look about them, but Poodles are actually quite playful and amicable. They are loving, affectionate, and loyal, and they will be protective of their home and human family members. Poodles are agile and athletic, and many excel in agility, conformation shows, obedience training, rally, and tracking. They adapt well to any home environment provided that their exercise is prioritized. They thrive when they are busy and able to have daily mental stimulation as well. Exercise Recommendations 60 minutes of activity per day Grooming Tips Bathe as necessary; trim every 3—6 weeks Tear-stains? Terms such as "Royal Standard. At Amity, we breed Toy Poodles: the Toy is the smallest variety and should be no larger than 10" high at the shoulder. This size is particularly well-suited to apartment life or as a traveling companion for retired people. Amity also breeds Miniature Poodles: the Miniature is a medium- sized animal standing between 10" and 15" high at the shoulder. This variety is a sturdy compromise between the Toy and the Standard, suitable for both apartment life or the hardy lifestyle of a family with children. I have many friends that breed Standard Poodles: the Standard is the largest of the three varieties, with no upper height limit. Standards typically mature to a height of 21" to 27" at the shoulder, and females are usually a little smaller than males. A pet quality puppy is less likely, in the breeder's estimation, to succeed in the show ring. Poodle puppy meets the standard of the breed for temperament, such a "fault" in no way affect's the puppy's ability to be a wonderful companion or its eligibility to enter AKC Companion Events, such as Agility or Obedience Trials. With a head beautiful enough to be carved in granite. Kaili ends as 3 Miniature Poodle in Canada with only 1 weekend! Way to go Dawn!! Kaili earned her Grand Championship title and is now retired!! Inquiries about Kaili's upcoming litter to dstrumbel hotmail. Lincoln, repeat of Kaili, completed his championship as a puppy. Amity's Gettysburg Address co-owned with Vicki Barker and retired to sleep on her bed. At stud once testing is completed. Bred and owned by Teri Vinje. Fanni, AKA Franny, finishes her championship at 11 months. Jackson, AM. Amity's Old Hickory finishes his American championship at 11 months of age. Nancy Berg, Jackson's owner, put final points for his Canadian championship. This was the first time in the US ring for both! Gucci, Can. Thank you Anna for all your hard work! Another Puppy Champion. Congratulations Anne Bell. Britney was expertly handled by Allison Cowey. Shown finishing her Grand Championship as a puppy. Sabrina is Frankie's second Grand Champion. Sabrina is owned by Marie Hedeman. I am so pleased that you shared Desi with me. She was undefeated in the ring and also was awarded a Group 3 and two Group 4ths that weekend. Charlotte is owned by Michele Kerr of Adanac Poodles in Canada and will be the foundation to their rare breeding program in Ontario. President, was shown exclusively by his co owner Susan Enebak. Good Luck Sue. He has started his Canadian title by winning 2 points at his only Canadian show the day he turned 6 months. Watch for him to follow in his sire's footsteps. Teddy completed his Can Ch with a group 3 under breeder judge Elaine Whitney. Cal is an easy to live with sweet guy looking for the right owner. Undefeated in Canada in 4 shows with a Group 2 see pic above. Conceived the day his sire was neutered, Woody is truly the last of the last. He has the perfect poodle personality. When you want quiet time he lays forever with his legs crossed waiting for the next activity. Rumer's pic will be here soon! Thank you Anne for letting him spend some quality time with us. Below are his champions so far. Baker has gone back to Sanvar Kennels, anne sanvar. Trey resides in Fargo, ND. Introducing our new boy: Vito Corleone: Am. Amity's Mystical The God Father. Pictured below is Vito winning the puppy group on the way to his Canadian Championship shown by 11 year old Faith Norton. Co-owned with Marie Hedeman mystical mysticalpoodles. She is halfway finished in Canada handled by co-owner Nancy Berg. They will be out for the Spring shows! Way Ta Go Nanc! She is a doll! Good Job Mike! He is now a pale pretty silver beige with a slight orange cast. Watch for more Teddy get.These are photos of Amity's sires of our puppies. The dams are also Champions and all have had genetic testing. Please send requests to amityvk callta.