siberian german shepherd puppy

Ethical breeders only breed new litters from carefully health screened parent pups. This helps detect any genetic defects , which might be carried onto the puppies. This will give you some added peace of mind, but make sure that the health guarantee comes in written form with your adoption documents. Although it might seem like an unnecessary step, being affiliated with any of these organizations means that a breeder has to follow their strict health testing standards and ethical breeding practices. Moreover, if you know anyone who has adopted a Labradoodle puppy in Washington, reach out to them and ask about their own personal experiences with Doodle breeders in the state. Our article on How To Choose A Responsible Breeder has tons of more tips on this topic, so make sure you check it out. They specialize in breeding Medium, Mini, and Micro Mini Australian Labradoodle puppies in a variety of beautiful coat colors, including chocolate, red-apricot, caramel, and phantom patterns. In addition to breeding Labradoodle pups, they also raise purebred Golden Retrievers. At Moonlit Acres, their main focus is on breeding healthy and happy puppies with wonderful temperaments. In fact, many of their puppies have gone on to become registered service dogs for families and individuals who need that special canine support only Doods can provide. All of their puppies are born and raised in their very own home so that they all receive round-the-clock care and nurture that they deserve. Their puppies are all well-socialized with young children, adults, and also with other dogs. They start potty training at 3 weeks of age, crate training at 4 weeks of age, and also utilize the Early Neurological Stimulation ENS training. Moreover, they teach their puppies basic commands and even take them on car rides! What Makes This Breeder Unique? Waitlist: Yes. Our dogs are smart, calm, intuitive, and beautiful. We only breed one litter at a time. Together we discover that there is nothing more rewarding than making people happy with healthy, social and gorgeous puppies. They have soft coats and wonderful temperaments. We breed carefully with low inbreeding and provide you with a pedigree. Our breeding dogs pass many tests to qualify for our breeding program. Tests on breeding dogs include hip and elbow xrays, cardiac screening, healthy eye certification, and DNA tests for common diseases in the breed. We take special care of all our dogs and puppies. We love our Australian Labradoodle puppies from start to finish! We do not breed with anxious, aggressive, nervous dogs, but we select our breeding dogs with good temperaments. They have a gentle, calm, happy character with just enough spirit to be playful and fun. We raise our breeding dogs in our own home or in foster families called guardian homes. All dogs deserve to live with a family. We are not a kennel operation. Because the puppies grow up in our home, they are socialized and love people and other dogs. They are introduced to people, children, and other dogs at a very early age. Training with commands such as come and sit start at 5 weeks of age. We introduce them to their crates at the same time. Our labradoodles keep us laughing with their clownlike antics. We have a lot of experience and knowledge raising and training dogs and we promise a lifetime of support. We distinguish ourselves by having the healthiest, friendliest dogs with wonderful temperaments. They are mostly hypoallergenic dogs. They are very intelligent and easy to train, so Australian Labradoodles are used for emotional support and service. Our whelping boxes and pens are cleaned and sanitized every day. The puppies start pottying on grass outside at about 5 weeks old. They are introduced to crates at 5 weeks old but will not be fully crate trained. We want them to love their crates. We send one home with you. Reserve early as most puppies are sold before they are born! Responsible Breeding Early Socialization and Positive Training Starts at Birth Responsible Breeding Inbreeding analysis before breeding any dogs to be sure there are no close relatives for generations. Pedigrees, and health tests posted. Our breeding dogs do not shed. Tests on breeding dogs include hip and elbow xrays, cardiac screening, healthy eye certification, DNA tests for Common diseases in the breed. We socialize with many people and other dogs. We introduce crate training at 5 weeks in a manner that they will love their crates. Love and handling starts at birth. Most puppies come and sit before they go home. Olympic Peninsula:. Evaluated by Pat Hastings of Dogfolk, Mila was rated top breeding quality for temperament and structure. We are excited to announce that the perfect prince was found and Mila had her first litter April 13, .After crucial upbringing with Mom and litter mates, intentional Puppy Culture time, Ever After training, and evaluations with Pat Hastings; puppies went home in June of and are all thriving with amazing forever families. Since then, Ever After has continued with unsurpassable breeding practices for the most deserving of dogs and puppy families. Our Story passion for dogs Pictured with Mila below at 15, 13, and 13 years of age, our three family rescue dogs made us one of the most sought-after pet sitters around. We had an evident love for dogs. When our names were passed along to help a local breeder, we fell in love with what felt like the perfect dog for anyone, the Australian Labradoodle. Encompassing so many wonderful adjectives, this silly, light-hearted, energetic, loving, intelligent, allergy-friendly, loyal, therapy-tempered family dog was irresistible. The process of learning how to mate only top-quality partners, whelp healthy litters, care for nursing mothers and newborn pups, and then pass along the healthiest crate-trained puppies to happy families, became intoxicating for our family. We had to be a part of such a fulfilling experience. Thus, after many months of observation, apprenticeship, and studying, Ever After Multi-Generational Australian Labradoodles was created. For the best experiences in life, our carefully selected breeder dogs are raised in homes instead of kennels. Now we have the thrilling task of finding "happily ever after" for every new pup and their family. Why Recommend Ever After? Our puppies sleep through the night in a closed crate from at least 11 P. Ever After is a small family-run business. With that, we are able to spend every waking moment with our puppies socializing and training them ourselves. There is no staff — just us and our eager visitors. Pat and her husband bred 28 different dog breeds across all groups. Hiring Pat and being trained by her, we took the extra steps needed to choose top-quality breeder dogs for our program using the standards set in place by the Australian Labradoodle Association of America ALAA. Already feeling confident as trustworthy breeders, Pat gave us the additional tools to be the best. She reminded us that no dog is perfect; but it should always be our mission to nurture the development of our breed and strive for the healthiest of pets — emotionally and physically. Mini Labradoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Comparison Two dog breeds, one purpose: to make your life a joy-filled journey powered by strong bonds, friendship, and unconditional love. Meet the Mini Labradoodle and the Mini Sheepadoodle. Two very adorable and friendly dogs with upbeat personalities, the Mini Labradoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle make the perfect addition to any lucky family. Your way of life, hobbies, and work schedule are all important factors that can help determine which of the two dog breeds is a good fit for your lifestyle.Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? They are fun, easygoing, and gentle. Mini Labradoodles enjoy canine games like chase, fetch, and Frisbee, and thrive on cuddles and love. Energetic, friendly, and full of life, the Mini Labradoodles make wonderful jogging and hiking companions. They are known to enjoy a good swim, a long stroll, and are very fond of adventures. The Mini Labradoodle puppies are happy, energetic, and bright bundles of joy. They are loving and eager to please, love to play and cuddle, and are excellent training students. A cross between Labrador Retrievers and Mini or Toy Poodles, the Mini Labradoodle may take after one parent breed or the other in appearance or they may have their own unique look with an added bonus of a hypoallergenic coat. They have beautiful, soft, wavy fleece, hypoallergenic coats and a strong, sturdy build. All of the characteristics that come to mind when you think of the quintessential dog can be used to describe this incredible breed. As a result, our puppies carry on their exceptional attributes and become treasured members of families throughout the U. Our Sires go through OFA hip and elbow testing, CERF exams by an ophthalmologist vet for eye health, and full genetic testing to detect any genetic health defects. The physical soundness, health, temperament, and overall appearance of male puppies held for breeding must meet the highest breed standards. In addition to in-depth health and genetic testing, all of our Sires are evaluated as puppies. With detailed assessment of structure and temperament, we are able to identify top scorers to hold back for future breeding, as well as better pair our Australian Labradoodle puppies with the families who have reserved them. We choose Sires and Dams for their strong structures and gentle, therapy dog temperaments. Our Sires and Dams are paired with the utmost care to produce exceptional Australian Labradoodle puppies in a variety of colors and in both miniature and medium sizes. Breeding dogs are chosen for their stunning soft fleece coats, which are unique to the Australian Labradoodle, and in a full range of accepted solid, parti, and other multi-colors. Our Sires fall between 20 and 45 pounds. If you think one of their puppies would be a good fit for you, fill out our puppy reservation form and get on the list for one of our upcoming litters. We look forward to helping you add a beautiful, sweet, and loving pup to your family! We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Vancouver Washington and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted.

Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Use the same commands and cues consistently. Improved obedience and communication. Reward good behavior with treats and praise. A motivated and happy pup. Socialization Introduce your pup to various people and dogs in a slow, positive manner. Well-adjusted and confident around others. Structured Play Mental stimulation and reduced boredom. Leash Training Teach leash manners to enjoy peaceful walks. Enjoyable walks with your well-behaved companion. Obedience Classes Enroll in obedience classes for professional guidance. Enhanced training skills and socialization. Training a 6-month-old German Shepherd puppy involves consistent positive reinforcement methods. Start with basic commands like sit, stay, and come. Use rewards like treats and praise to encourage desired behavior, and keep training sessions short and engaging. Socialization with other dogs and people is essential, and enrolling in puppy training classes can provide structured guidance. Use these puppy training tips to have less stress with your puppy: 1. Stay on top of their exercise needs. Your GSD needs the proper exercise. Increase exercise slowly to avoid an injury that comes from too much impact on unfused joints and bones. While your puppy still lacks maturity and focus, you can increase training to help teach your dog obedience skills. Increase daily obedience and practice to help them learn training basics. Your beautiful German Shepherd puppy will grow very quickly! Teaching them when they are puppies will pay off for the rest of their life. Simple training should start the moment your puppy arrives home. Using the same word for the same activities will help them learn quickly. Give them the right chew toys. Your pup needs balls and toys that are safe and chew-worthy. Look for more indestructible toys to keep your German Shepherd busy and continue to offer chew treats to work their jaws. Find the right chews for you puppy so you minimize the potential for choking and their jaws get a good workout. Use some of these balls for German Shepherd puppies as a distraction toy to get their focus away from your fingers and onto the toy. Giving your puppy a chew toy when they are biting an unapproved item redirects their attention to the right item. Include mental stimulation for their minds. This puppy needs mental stimulation to help them exercise their brilliant minds. This intelligent dog need more than physical exercise. Their minds need to learn and become involved in their world in new and interesting ways. There are many ways you can include mental stimulation. Many of these ways involve teaching a new brain challenge or mental game. Keep them supervised. Even a young GSD can cause lots of trouble when left unsupervised. If your once potty-trained pup has now forgotten their potty manners, then use pet-safe baby gates to contain them or leash them to you to supervise their actions at all times. Pet safe gates like these allow your dog to still see you and feel they have watched over their family. Pet gates are a safe option that prevents your dog from getting its head stuck or worse. Shutting a German Shepherd behind a closed door increases their anxiety and can make unwanted behavior worse! Instead, use the baby gate in a safe area to give them less run of your house. Behaviors you like can improve daily. Every day is an opportunity for you to become a more successful leader. For example: If they want to go outside ask them for a sit first. If they bring you a ball to throw, ask for a down before you engage in play. Setting up expectations of accepted behavior helps them learn how to behave more appropriately. And these successful moments can help speed up how long it takes to train a German Shepherd. Even tiny successes are great confidence builders for your puppy and for you. These bursts of training are easier for your pup to understand. The most telling sign of your little puppy growing up is unpredictable behaviors. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, but in a furry adorable body! Hormones, rebellion, confusion, and curiosity all add up to puppy puberty. But with the proper home management techniques and setting expectations, you can overcome these common puppyhood challenges. And my short Happy Puppy Guide is packed with helpful tips and tricks to ensure your furry friend grows up to be a happy and well-behaved companion. Your 6-month-old German Shepherd will thank you for it. I fetched it for you right here! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Final Thoughts Remember that your 6 month old German Shepherd is not a puppy anymore. It is the age when your pet officially enters the adolescence stage. What does this mean for it and you as its owner? The most troublesome period starts here. Your doggy can become rather unpredictable, and it is sometimes frustrating. It may still seem like a big fur ball, but it shows its temperament and character, so you need to be very careful. Moreover, it is very strong, too. So if your puppy is not properly trained, you may experience some difficulties in controlling it. Size and Appearance Your 6 month old German Shepherd puppy continues growing. It has already gained pounds .It is a large dog breed, and it has become obvious now. Your boy weighs pounds kg , and the girl, though smaller, is pounds kg heavy. The height of a male puppy at this age reaches inches cm at the withers, while female dogs are inches cm tall. Now, teething is almost completed, and your doggy can normally show all its 42 adult teeth already. However, some puppies continue teething until they are months old. The fur coat is also almost adult, with its double layers and a lot of shedding. It means that you need to develop a direct schedule for brushing and grooming. Buy a high-quality undercoat rake and brush your pup at least once a week. Since teething is finished, the ears stand up straight at this age. However, some puppies do not have perky ears until they are 12 months old. Another very important thing to consider in your six month old German Shepherd is that its sexual maturity begins. This stage is equivalent to teenagership or puberty in people. The hormones start kicking in, so males may want to look for a mate when outside. That is why it is so important to keep your puppy away from stray dogs at this time. Your boy may also start marking its territory and displaying aggression toward other animals and people. Estrogen in females also results in uneasiness and aggressive behavior. Walking in a dog park is not the best idea for your girl at this period. On average, a 6 month old GSD sleeps hours a day. Most of them are at night, but it may also need several naps in the daytime. Your puppy is very active at this age, so it needs a lot of walking and running. It is capable of walking long distances or even jogging. It is a truly great breed that can be very energetic. The puppy can walk up to 6 miles or 10 kilometers, and many believe that it is OK, since wolf pups as their ancestors could walk and run with their pack for many miles. However, every veterinarian will tell you that too much exercise of this kind can be dangerous for your pup because it can result in problems with joints at this age. So, choose other types of activities for exercising. Teach your doggy to walk on a leash, with frequent breaks, increasing the length of the walk gradually. Never walk your puppy in very hot or cold weather. If your pup shows the slightest signs of lameness, talk with your vet about it. The age of 6 months is the time when many behavioral problems can appear. It is connected with the period of puberty and hormonal disbalances. Your pup needs more independence, so it may wage a war against all your belongings if not trained properly. Chewing, tearing, and demolishing everything around is common. Even if your doggy has been potty-trained properly, it may have more accidents indoors now because it finds pleasure in looking for secret places for doing its business when indoors. Therefore, you have to show it who the boss in the household is and become a true leader of the pack for it. When playing, your pup may become rougher and try to dominate. It can get pushier with other dogs due to the start of its sexual maturity. Your pet can display a lot of boldness and attack other dogs fearlessly when walking in the park. It may also develop more aggressive reactions to other people, especially strangers. Even if it does know most commands, it may pretend to forget them because its hormones fluctuate. So, you need to be very careful to avoid incidents. Scent marking is another sign of puberty. The pup can do it inside your home and display disobedience if you try to prevent this. Female pups can experience the beginning of heat. It may cause them to feel subdued and insecure, so they become less sociable and even aggressive to their owners. You need a lot of patience and knowledge to train your doggy to behave properly at this age. Try to be persistent, provide it with more outdoor exercise, and never use force or physical punishment in response to its misbehavior. Increase the amount of exercise gradually to avoid bad injuries to the bones and joints. Find the most appropriate and appealing activities and games for your puppy to keep it healthy and out of trouble. Include mental stimulation in your everyday exercise. Offer it new brain challenges or mental games. Health and Care You need to be carefully observing whether your pup meets its weight and height requirements for this age. Learn to measure your doggy regularly to be on the safe side. Your pup has already had three vaccination sessions by this time. Neutering or spaying your pup is an issue that you may have to consider. However, most veterinarians do not approve of this at such an early age. It can result in joint disorders, incontinence, musculature injuries, and even cancer. They can be explained by lessening or eliminating the production of hormones associated with growth. The cartilage in long leg bones may get soft or even be missing, contributing to skeletal weaknesses. That is why you should delay neutering until your boy is one year old. Or, if your little male displays too many signs of disobedience and aggression due to its sexual development, delay neutering until the veterinarian X-rays your doggy and ensures that the growth plates are hardened and completely closed. As for female German Shepherds, the additional safety considerations for spaying should also be taken into account. Too early spaying can increase the risks of mammary cancer and urinary incontinence, along the common joint and bone issues. It is recommended to wait until your girl is one year old or even longer. Most breeders will tell you that a female German Shepherd should go through one or two heat cycles before spaying to reduce the risks of severe health issues. That is why the most desirable time for spaying the GS female is 18 months of its age. As for other health problems at the age of 6 months, you do not need to worry. If you want to know what to expect further, research the pedigree and ancestors of your pup to see whether there were any hereditary issues in their bloodline. You can also have a DNA test to predict future problems, such as degenerative myelopathy. However, you need to be watchful and careful about different signs and symptoms that may signal some temporary disorders. These symptoms may not mean anything serious. Though, it is always better to be sure. Feeding You need to feed your 6 month old German Shepherd puppy an appropriate diet with the correct number of calories and protein rates. It still grows rapidly, so you should be careful when choosing between high-quality puppy kibble and raw homemade feeding. The latter should include raw meats fish, turkey, or chicken are good and different vegetables and fruits. Do not offer your puppy too many treats during the daytime. Remember that they can be full of fats and lead to obesity. You do not want your pup to suffer from hip dysplasia or other health issues caused by being overweight. Arthritis, hypertension, diabetes, and even cancer can also result from improper diets. Give your puppy cups of kibble per each of 2 meals daily. Develop a feeding schedule and be consistent with following it. Self-feeding can also lead to obesity. Provide clean and fresh water to your dog, and you do not need to take the water bowl away. Your pup should have access to it whenever it wants. Never add any supplements or extra treats until your veterinarian recommends them. If your puppy refuses to eat for more than two subsequent meals, have a talk with your vet. You do not need to make a transition to adult food at this age yet. However, in some cases, it may be appropriate and recommended, even if normally such a transition is due closer to the age of one year. If you do not do it gradually, you may face digestive upset in your puppy. The start for a 6 month old GSD is not the best option because the socialization window closes at 4 months in German Shepherds, and you may encounter some behavioral issues now. Never use harsh, negative, or punishment-based methods of training. Your pup is very sensitive, and all this can damage its psyche. The positive, reward-based methods are more appropriate, and they will produce better results. Continue socialization by exposing your pet to unfamiliar animals and people in a friendly environment. Though, you need to be very careful now because hormone disbalance can evoke unpredictable reactions. German Shepherds tend to be enthusiastic barkers, so you have to discourage your pup from barking all the time. Teach it to inform you when someone unknown is approaching, but keep from barking all other times. Always control your doggy persistently. Instill that you are a leader to obey. Do training for at least minutes per day regularly and always use positive reinforcement. If you need help, ask a professional trainer to assist or teach you. It is pretty tall, with the height of a male reaching inches .Female dogs are a bit smaller, with inches cm in height. How much should a 6 month old German Shepherd weight? Your pet continues growing quickly, so its weight also increases. The average weight of a boy puppy is pounds .How much should a 6 month old German Shepherd eat? You can give your puppy cups of kibble per each of 2 meals daily. How much should a 6 month old German Shepherd sleep? Because of its almost full-sized bladder, your pup does not need a potty at night or may need it just once. Therefore, it can sleep peacefully the whole night. Normally, the average sleeping time is hours, with the biggest amount at night. Though, it may also need several naps in the daytime. How far can a 6 month old German Shepherd walk? Even if you think that your pup needs a lot of exercises, walking and running should not comprise the largest part of it. The puppy can walk up to 6 miles or 10 kilometers if it is needed, but never make it walk for such a long distance. Its bones and joints are not formed completely yet, so much walking can cause many health issues. Choose some other activities for exercising, then. Final Thoughts Now, you can see that your 6 month old GSD puppy is a source of both enjoyment and trouble. You should be very patient, persistent, and careful about feeding, training, and exercising your little one to raise a healthy, energetic, and loyal dog, the best companion and protector for all your family. Follow the advice of your veterinarian relating to health and care. You can also consult with a professional dog trainer or hire them to help you. We hope that some recommendations and tips in this article will also be helpful. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. If you have recently welcomed a 6-month-old German Shepherd puppy into your home, you are probably feeling a mix of excitement and overwhelming responsibility. At six months, your GSD puppy is starting to look and act a lot like an adult. He is also starting to explore his surroundings and may be roaming a lot more than usual. He is also going into puppy puberty, which comes with many behavioral changes including marking, aggression and acting on sexual desires. In this blog post, we will provide a survival guide for new owners of a 6-month-old German Shepherd puppy. We will cover essential topics such as feeding, exercise, training, grooming, and health care, and offer practical tips and recommendations to help you navigate this particular stage with your new companion. What to expect from a 6-month-old German Shepherd puppy? If you have a male puppy, for instance, you will notice that they are becoming overly territorial or intolerant of other male dogs and generally aggressive to unfamiliar people. In addition to the hormones, are the raging sexual desires which will make your puppy want to be around dogs of the opposite sex. Female puppies will start to go into heat, while male puppies will start roaming looking for females. Other changes to expect include: Playful and energetic Your young dog is also likely to be more energetic and playful than before. Becoming independent GSD puppies at this age are also starting to become more independent and may be less reliant on you. Enhanced communication skills Puppies at this age also have enhanced hearing skills and can process instructions a lot better. This is the time to advance obedience training to help them learn good behavior and become well-behaved adult dogs. Resource guarding Additionally, they may experience what we refer to as resource guarding. This is where puppies become so possessive of their toys that they become harsh when someone or another dog tries to touch them. American Kennel Club recommends early behavior training to prevent this possession aggression from escalating into nasty bites. Your six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will need quite a lot from you. First and foremost, they will need a consistent routine and structure. The routine should incorporate everything from feeding to play. A routine will help make life so much easier for both of you. Other needs include A good leader As an owner, you should also provide your puppy with good leadership. Part of being a good leader is giving clear instructions and being consistent with reinforcing the behavior. For a GSD puppy, establishing yourself as a pack leader is crucial in instilling good behavior. Consistent exercise You will also need to take your dog for daily walks or for play dates at the dog park to keep them mentally stimulated and physically active. Even as puppies, German Shepherds are extremely energetic dogs, and therefore daily exercise is a basic need for them. You will need to commit to at least 30 minutes of exercise in the morning and another 30 minutes in the evening. In addition, you will need to have a list of games and activities to keep them busy and mentally stimulated. Here are some activities you can try. Proper socialization It is also important to continue socializing your German Shepherd puppy at this age. This can involve exposing them to a variety of people, places, and other animals in a controlled and positive manner. This will help your puppy develop into a well-adjusted adult dog. Proper nutrition Proper nutrition is also important for a growing German Shepherd puppy. You will need to feed your puppy high-quality food appropriate for their size and age. It is generally recommended to feed puppies three to four times per day until they are about six months old, after which you can gradually transition to twice-daily feedings. Love and attention In addition to these basic responsibilities, you are also expected to provide your German Shepherd puppy with plenty of love, attention, and positive reinforcement. This will help them feel secure and build a strong bond with you. There are plenty of ways to bond with your dog. You can make use of the morning and evening exercise to bond, go on weekend hikes and trips together, walks at the dog park or play interactive games indoors. The goal is to create as much quality time with your dog to enhance the bond. Regular grooming Regular grooming is another thing your pup will require from you at least once every week. Now that their coat is fully filled up, they will start to shed a lot. This means you will need to create a schedule for brushing their coat and general grooming, like cleaning their ears and teeth. Ensure you get a good-quality brush for this job. They look a lot like a large breed dog at this point. Males will have an average weight of 53 pounds and a height of between inches, while females will weigh 46 pounds on average and will be inches tall. However, some German Shepherds puppies may be larger or smaller than others at this age. The puppies will have a more developed a more muscular appearance than they did when younger. They will have a longer, thicker coat, and their ears may be fully upright. Their paws may also be larger and more in proportion to their body, and a majority will have all their adult teeth on. Also noticeable will be their strong, muscular build and their intelligent and confident demeanor. It is normal for some puppies to grow more quickly or more slowly than others. To help speed up their growth, focus on proper nutrition. You also want to get your puppy a variety of chew toys to help with ear erection. This new stage comes with its own set of behavioral changes, as expected, like aggression, territorial marking, and moodiness. Other changes that your pup may experience to indicate sexual maturity include bloody discharge and swelling of the vulva. As the hormones kick in for both males and females, they will begin to act on their sexual desires. For males, particularly, they will start to prowl for females, and for females, they will start to go into their first heat cycle. But yes, from 6 to 12 months, your pup will develop aggressive reactions to other dogs as well as to unfamiliar faces. They will start to get pushier when playing with other dogs. They will also become bolder and more fearless when with other dogs. This is their innate need to want to dominate and protect their territory, which they are slowly marking. This sudden aggressiveness is also due to the hormonal fluctuation they are experiencing. Ideally, your puppy should have been trained as early as 4 months when the aggressive behavior starts so that by the time the aggression is heightened at 6 months, it is easier to deter. Be aware that even though they will not be aggressive to you as their owner, they will start to show disobedience when you give them commands. You will need to stamp your authority so that the puppy understands that you are in charge. This will also make training even with aggressive behaviors easier. Puppy puberty: What do owners need to know? The sixth month in puppies is marked with a surge of hormones. This makes it pretty hard to predict their behaviors. In fact, they may show some aggression and pushiness. They however like to hang out around female dogs because their sexual desire is heightened. For female puppies, you will notice a shift in their moods. They are also likely to become insecure and less interested in activities they once enjoyed as they start getting on heat. They may also become irritable and aggressive to other dogs. Both genders will also start showing some disobedience and unruly behaviors like not responding to commands they once did. Nutrition needs of a 6-Month-Old German Shepherd puppy At six months old, your German Shepherd puppy will still have some growing to do, and it is important to ensure that they are receiving the right balance of nutrients to support their growth and development. There are a variety of meat proteins that you can incorporate into the diet, such as chicken, beef, lamb, turkey, and salmon. Fats Fats and oils from fish, chicken, and meats are essential in developing healthy and shiny coat, skin, and fur. Carbohydrates Your 6-month-old puppy is going to need a lot of energy to keep up with his current activity levels. According to PetMD good sources of carbohydrates are plants and grains. Other essential nutrients Your puppy will also need essential nutrients minerals and vitamins to help in stabilizing their surging hormones as well as dental health and a multitude of other body functions. These nutrients can be found in cereals, meats, and vegetables. But your dog is still a puppy on the inside, and this is very important to remember. Your dog still has a lot of growing to do on the inside! A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy is going to need a lot of socialization and structured crate training and enough gentle exercise and play to keep all that energy under control. What to Expect as Your German Shepherd Turns Six Months Old German Shepherds are really smart , strong dogs, which can mean they are a handful to raise and train as they grow up and get bigger. If you are caring for a German Shepherd puppy right now or have ever done so in the past, you already know this! One of the biggest areas of anxiety for first-time German Shepherd owners is whether what they are experiencing with their dog is normal or not. For example, is it normal for a six-month-old German Shepherd puppy to be biting everything in sight? How about if a six-month-old German Shepherd puppy whines and barks a lot? What about appetite, portion size, and treats for a 6 month old German Shepherd? When should you transition to adult dog food and an adult dog portion size? And what about that all-important question — should you get your German Shepherd spayed or neutered and, if so, when should you do it? These are all intelligent questions that caring dog owners typically ask. So if you are wondering what the answers are, you are not alone — and you are about to find out in the sections to follow here. In most cases, the timing of neutering a male German Shepherd puppy is going to be different than the spaying of a female GSD. So we will look at each procedure separately here. When to neuter your male German Shepherd puppy However, as the University of California at Davis points out, a scary new study in the Journal of Veterinary Medicine and Science highlights the health risks of too-early neutering. Specifically, joint disorders, musculature injuries, cancer, and incontinence are all risks that are linked to neutering a German Shepherd before the age of 12 months one year old. Researchers believe the risks arise from how neutering lessens or eliminates the production of important hormones associated with reproduction and also with growth. When a male dog is neutered too early, the hormones that tell the soft cartilage growth plates in the long leg bones when to close go missing. This can delay reaching the final German Shepherd growth stages, cause bone overgrowth, contribute to skeletal weakness throughout life and might cause German Shepherds to stop growing. To reduce these risks, you may want to delay neutering your male puppies until after their first birthday and they are a full grown German Shepherd. Alternately, you may want to delay neutering until after your veterinarian has X-rayed your dog and determined that the growth plates have closed and hardened. When to spay your female German Shepherd puppy Choosing when to spay a female German Shepherd puppy comes with additional safety considerations and health threats beyond simply preventing unplanned pregnancy. Female German Shepherds that are spayed too early in life have an increased risk of mammary cancer and urinary incontinence along with more frequent and serious joint and skeletal issues. To lessen the risk of these issues, it is definitely important to wait until your female German Shepherd puppy has had her first birthday. But you may want to wait even longer, and here is why. Many breeders believe that a female German Shepherd should go through one to two successful full heat cycles before spaying. As owners posting on this popular German shepherds Forum explain, waiting until your female German Shepherd has had her second birthday can reduce the risk of later-in-life urinary incontinence even further. And then some owners and breeders will choose to spay at the halfway point of 18 months. Other neuter or spay considerations for a German Shepherd puppy It is also important to keep in mind that some K-9 programs, such as participation in formal military or police K-9 work, are only open to intact German Shepherds. If you want to enroll your dog in this type of program, be sure to check the requirements before proceeding with a neuter or spay procedure. For this reason, the German Shepherd Dog Club of America GSDCA explains that weight monitoring is an essential aspect of adjusting food portions during the age of three to six months old. By the age of six months old, your puppy should be eating twice per day. Make sure clean, fresh water is always available to your dog. Only feed your puppy a high-quality, complete, and balanced puppy food made for large-breed puppies ask your breeder or veterinarian if you are not sure what to feed. As we mentioned earlier in this article, a six-month-old German Shepherd puppy is likely going to look very similar to how it will look like an adult German Shepherd. But on the inside, there is still so much growing and developing to be done. What you feed, how you feed, and how much you feed can have everything to do with how strong and structurally healthy your GSD puppy grows up to be. Start by mixing 90 percent old food with 10 percent new food. Do this for one to two days. Then switch to 80 percent old food mixed with 20 percent new food. Continue until you are at percent new food. This system can ease digestive upset and temporary elimination issues like constipation or diarrhea that may arise when there is a big food switch. As the Central Texas Veterinary Hospital explains, German Shepherds as a breed can be particularly prone to issues of a sensitive stomach. This makes planning for a slow food transition especially critical to success for this breed. Training a Six Month Old German Shepherd Puppy According to expert dog trainers with the German Shepherd Dog Club of America , the type of puppy training your dog receives from the ages of two to six months is vital to raising a healthy, happy adult dog. Quite the contrary! So your GSD puppy may still be teething and biting on everything in sight to deal with that painful process. German Shepherds are high-strung, sensitive dogs and they are also strong and powerful. You can accomplish the same and even better training results using positive rewards-based reinforcement methods that will not damage your bond with your dog. Continue socialization with strange people and animals Your German Shepherd puppy will need ongoing exposure to strangers — people and animals — as part of the socialization and training process. You have total control over how you want your German Shepherd to respond when a strange person or animal crosses their path. You can teach your puppy how to alert you when an unknown individual approaches your home or crosses your path. If you are firm and consistent with your training through the teenage phase, hiring a professional K-9 trainer if you need to, your reward will be a well-behaved, well-trained adult dog that will guard, defend and protect you with their life. One reason for this is that as long as the growth plates stay soft, you risk injury if you over-exercise your dog. But the soft growth plates can be damaged if your German Shepherd puppy is allowed to run for extended periods of time, race up and down the stairs, do a lot of jumping or agility work or play too vigorously. Games like tug-of-war also bad for developing teeth. Throw-the-toy ball, stick games. Too-vigorous or rough play with other dogs or people. So at six months of age, your German Shepherd puppy should be exercising for 30 minutes six months times 5 minutes each day. But here again, make sure the exercise is appropriate for a young large breed dog that is still growing and developing internally. Using mental and sensory exercise aids like snuffle mats and treat puzzle toys and teething aids like iced Kongs and safe flavored chew toys can also provide much-needed exercise and enrichment for mind and body. This will help ensure your 6 month old German Shepherd grows up to be a healthy adult dog. It is fun to watch Sam demonstrate how he has mastered basic commands from multiple owners, which is very important to help your GSD puppy socialize and bond fully with all family members. The owner also talks about the formal K-9 training program Sam is enrolled in through their local German Shepherd dog club. This is a fun option for you and your dog that is worth checking out if you happen to have a local German Shepherd club in your community.

Adoption may be the obvious option for someone inside your scenario. You can adopt a retrievers from a number of different places, such as gentle societies, rescue businesses, etc. Your golden retriever will probably be a a family member, so before you adopt, you should consider some things. You have to think about your causes of implementing a gold retriever. They are really faithful, pleasant and lively. This particular breed of dog enjoys everybody, including little creatures and strangers. If you prefer a dog to safeguard your home and family, what about a different breed would best suit you. Think about the risk you're taking when you are adopting an new search. It is important that you know exactly what to anticipate when you bring your new puppy home with you. Even though golden retrievers are deemed an respectful type, they require sufficient training from the very young grow older. You need to take into account the health of the canine before you pursue your adoption. Golden retrievers are prone to sickness. Some of the illnesses that affect the breed are moved genetically in the puppy's parents. If you have no idea what the mother and father are like, you should have the pup examined with a vet before going through with the adoption. In addition, you also need to possess the dog checked for bacterial infections on a regular basis. Take a moment to think about where your new friend is going to reside once you drive them to your home. Typically retrievers are not perfect housedogs. Nevertheless, retrievers love human contact, so find a suitable region in your home where one can spend some time near to your gold. Consider your way of life and how you will fit in your new buddy. They thrive on the attention they get from their owners. Even if you choose to adopt a mature dog instead of a puppy, they're still quite fun. If you don't invest a lot of time in your own home, you do not need a golden retriever. If remaining on your own for an prolonged period of time will become discouraged and bored stiff, which is not good news for your household. They love to run, swim, perform, and so on. If these activities do not squeeze into your schedule, possibly adopting a gold retriever might not for you. Lastly, consider your wellbeing when you are considering implementing. The layer of the gold retriever is extremely thick which dogs drop throughout the year. If you have issues with pet hair allergies, then you definitely don't want to proceed with adopting a brand new retriever. Implementing a gold retriever may be the best encounter in your life. If you already possess a retriever or have owned 1 in the past, then you are aware of what to prepare for. However, if you're planning on implementing the very first time, then you better buckle up for that trip. Are your golden retriever training methods no longer working? Perhaps you do not really understand how to proceed so that you can effectively look after your dog's behavior issues. If you are searching for advantageous gold retriever training techniques that may help you to stop your gold retriever from leaping on individuals, then here are a few clear-reduce ideas to think about: 1. Identify the reason for your gold retriever's behavior. You spend attention to your dog's common responses as well as the communications your dog is trying to convey through his body gestures. Certainly, your goldie sends indicators or messages through the have a nervous tic of his ear, the motions of his head or tail, as well as the moving of his eyes. He may be letting you know some thing when he retains pacing back and forth or barks excessively. You must be conscious of this stuff simply because this kind of can surely help you cope with your dog whenever he misbehaves or do something unwanted. And when it comes to the leaping on people routine, it may be because he's overexcited about playing games along with you, really happy to see you home or anxious about performing a number of gold retriever training actions. This routine could become very troublesome and dangerous, particularly if your goldie is fond of leaping at random individuals. Knowing what causes this kind of conduct can help you determine the solution. You can even prevent your dog from doing it in advance. Enforce golden retriever training for obedience immediately. Actually, training for behavior training needs to be initiated as soon as your puppy can manage any training routine or lesson. It's best to begin golden retriever instruction while your dog continues to be a puppy as this provides you with more advantage with regards to making him grasp all the behavior training commands he need to comply. The earlier you can begin training your retriever for obedience, the lower chances you have of coping with an unmanageable dog. Order your pet to stop the instant he jumps you or unto other people. Lead him to sit down and stay, and compliment or give him treats if he obeys your instructions. If he doesn't, then automatically turn around and ignore him till he gets tired of getting your interest. Just ensure that you don't hurt your pet by pressing him apart or by yelling at him. Harsh techniques won't make him realize that what he's performing is past appropriate. Get rid of the behavior before it turns into a typical practice. Undeniably, avoidance is always much better than remedy. Why wait for a instant that the dog acquires the habit of smoking of jumping at the individuals he loves or activities if you're able to really teach him the correct way of greeting individuals? Why let your wet and muddy golden retriever plunge at the freshly-cleaned clothes when you are able actually teach him to behave at certain situations? Conduct proper golden retriever instruction as a way to infuse positive traits that would even last for life. This way, you will not have to endure a rowdy pet. Do you see a loyal companion, a playful friend, a furry bundle of joy? Or do you see something more? Something deeper, something richer, something that speaks to your soul? A golden retriever puppy is not just a dog. The warmth of a cuddle, the thrill of a chase, the satisfaction of a treat. The joy of coloring. Coloring is not just a hobby. These are not just ordinary coloring pages. They are carefully designed to capture the essence and beauty of these adorable animals, a popular dog breed. Whether you want to color them alone or with your kids, friends, or family, these coloring pages will bring you hours of fun and relaxation. You can use them to decorate your home, your office, or your personal space. You can share them with a dog lover in your life, or keep them for yourself. You can make them as realistic or as imaginative as you want. Golden retriever puppy coloring pages are more than just a coloring page collection. They are an invitation to unleash your creativity, to explore your emotions, to discover yourself. They are a gift to yourself, and to the world. Order now and get ready to color your way to happiness. Where my puppy illustrations come in is the advertising of said events to benefit said puppies! Cut them out and paste them onto the plain gift bag, which you can find at any dollar store in the gifting section. Glue the tabs onto the toilet paper roll held horizontally , two in front and two in back. Then glue on the tail and the neck and head. Print that out onto cardstock, color it in, and cut it out just the face. Findable Rocks To make findable rocks, you will need a handful of smooth-topped rocks of various sizes and Mod Podge. You can select, copy and paste them all onto one document and print. Color them in and cut them out, then Mod Podge them to the tops of the rocks. Let the Mod Podge dry overnight and place the rocks on trails, at the park, outside of the grocery store, etc. Bookmarks My puppy pictures would make adorable bookmarks for both adults and kids. Cut them out and paste them onto a rectangular piece of construction paper or cardstock, roughly three or four inches by eight or 10 inches. Paper Dolls My puppy pics are so cute, they can and should be played with as paper dolls! Print the puppies you want to use onto cardstock, color them in and cut them out. You can use them as-is, or, for added convenience or for younger hands , you could glue a crafting stick to the back to make more of a puppet. Puppy Headbands You can turn your little cutie into a barking, playful puppy with just a few steps. Print that off, have your kid color it in, and cut it out. Wall Art My puppy illustrations are so cute, they belong on the walls of your home. Color them in, frame them you can find inexpensive frames at Walmart or the dollar store , and hang them up in an artful arrangement. You could also cut a few down to different sizes to add interest and variety to your gallery wall. Cut out the puppy and punch a hole where you want it to hang. Bake per the instructions and then let cool completely. You can add things to the ornament — like a little ribbon bow, hot glued on — and string some ribbon or cording through the hole to hang the ornament with.

Jean-Francois: How much is a purebred German Shepherd puppy without papers worth? I'm guessing it's a rip-off. Our nonpaper German shepherd just had 12, her 1st litter of no papers German shepherd pups. You can visually see the traits. I do suggest making sure vaccinations are given before buying the puppy. Answer by JTP Actually, that is a great price! I would even say that's pretty cheap, especially since it's a German Shepherd. Answer by SuperGirl It doesn't matter if the parents have papers. Parents with papers should have puppies that have papers as well. I'm also guessing mom and dad don't really have papers either, because papers come to puppies with papered parents. Answer by Kayleigh Let me explain what happened to us. I was young at the time and didn't realize what "limited" rights were. This means the woman who sold me my puppy would not give me the right to register my purebred GSD as a purebred GSD unless I got her spayed. We bought her with the intention of eventually breeding and keeping some puppies for ourselves but also selling a few. I would be breeding my dog with a purebred GSD who is registered, but since I cannot register my dog due to this lady's way of giving me limited rights I would not be able to register the pups either. She is our rescue dog. I got a blood test done that shows she is a purebred German Shepherd, but there is no way of knowing whether she was registered or not. We are going to breed her with one of my friend's purebred German Shepherd males. I was thinking of selling the puppies for around , which is about 1, dollars cheaper than what they are selling registered puppies for in this area. Ready for new homes: August 11, .Ready for new homes: September .Ready for new homes: October .Ready for new homes: November .Ready for new homes: December .Ready for new homes: June .GSDs are a versatile and highly intelligent breed capable of mastering complex obedience commands. Their intelligent versatility is just one of many unique factors that put GSDs head and shoulders above most other breeds in the canine world. The average GSD can grow to a shoulder height as high as 26 inches and are capable of equal parts grace and power. Because of this incredible mixture of intelligence, grace, and strength, they are the favorite breed of security experts from local K-9 police departments to every branch of the military across many different nations. GSDs are also capable of mastering the highest levels of show dog training making them among the most popular breeds of championship show dog organizations. There are plenty of reasons why German Shepherds have long been thought of as canine royalty. Select your new pup from one of our available litters and make your reservation with us. No problem. You can contact us at or or email us at vomragnar gmail. Our trainers can also train your pup for basic obedience, advanced obedience, and protection or security work. Your puppy will learn excellent manners and communication skills that will provide you with many years of a rich, full relationship with your German Shepherd. Design Please beware of scams and frauds! There are scams out there who use our brand. Their website may look exact the same since they duplicate our website or their domains look similar. Our website is vomragnar. Our brand name is patented. We are licensed breeders in Illinois. Please do not trust scammers and beware. Want to see our puppies available for sale? Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. Sound in mind and body, strong, functional, intelligent, trainable, courageous, and resilient. These are the natural qualities that can only be realized through the incredible genetics of purebred German Shepherds. We only import the best-of-the-best. Certified champions straight from Germany! Due to his home being burglarized in , Wayne decided to train dogs in tracking, obedience, and protection. His untrained Staffordshire Bullterrier was unable to protect his home and he then decided to obtain a Rottweiler for protection. Wayne continued to train Rottweilers up until the early 90s where he purchased his first German Shepherd. He was raised along side German Shepherds which had a huge impact toward his love and respect for the breed. At Kraftwerk K9, we honor the history of the German Shepherd. We here at Kraftwerk K9 care for and teach these world-class dogs to live up to their full potential. Our ethical breeding facility sits on 25 gorgeous acres of Washington soil and is available for touring before purchase. Take a look at our facility Learn more about our certified German Shepherds by calling today at or visiting our Available Dog page!

British-style Golden Retrievers Ontario Goldnote Golden Retrievers Ontario Goldnote Golden Retrievers, Ontario breeder of British style golden retrievers, raises health-tested, socialized golden retriever puppies within a warm home environment — receiving hours of care, play exercise and human contact. Our golden retriever puppies are known for their for sound temperament, robust health and longevity. Their beautiful coats range from lightest cream to the richest gold. Goldnote Golden Retrievers takes a holistic approach to the health of our dogs wherever possible. All of our puppies and dogs are fed a correct species appropriate raw diet, and we offer nutritional guidance to our puppy and dog families through our Certified Dog Nutrition Specialist. Goldnote families are encouraged to make proactive and informed choices regarding vaccines, flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Dog Boarding and PlayCare All breed dog boarding is available in our beautifully renovated and expanded dog boarding facilities, where each dog is treated as a member of our family. We happily accommodate dogs of all ages and breed types, provided they meet our criteria for compatibility. Our popular PlayCare is a daytime boarding experience for dogs who would benefit from extra exercise, supervised play groups, and mental stimulation while their families are away for the day. Goldnote offers additional services for our own puppies as part of our Board and Train. This program is an intensive one month training and obedience program for puppies 8 — 13 weeks of age. We are located near Barrie, Ontario. Contact us. Friendly and sweet standard size golden doodle male puppy. Has first set of vaccines. Male first set of vaccines. If you are interested please tell me a bit about yourself and where he will be living. Not registered but both parents are pure bred. Ready to go today only 4 left!! Barrie We have 2 boys ready to go! They have been well socialized in our home. Pups have been played with by kids and have been exposed to cats. Potty training and basic sit commands have been introduced. Both parents live on site, with no history of health issues, the puppies have been raised on high.Breeders for 22 years. Puppies are well socialized with cats,kids and another dog. They are also used to outside play and started.The hook hangs down from the metal plate in the back and is about 2. We are having a very hard time training her and are at a complete loss of what to do. My dog is apparently allergic to chicken so this food is no good- only about a quarter of the bag is used and was bought about 3 weeks ago. It retails for.Easy to hang hardware included. Handcrafted in the USA. Patented warp-resistant construction with solid matboard backing Shipping by seller.

Revered for their versatility as companion and for their dedication to work, this breed has the distinction of being the first dog ever used as a guide for the blind. Today the German Shepherd is one of the most popular breeds in the world. Character The German Shepherd is a breed of classic beauty and possesses superior intelligence. They are highly adaptable, energetic, curious, strong, and dependable. This breed displays a magnificent appearance and is extremely agile with great stamina and endurance. Temperament A member of the herding group, the German Shepherd is fearless, bold, hard working, and alert. They are esteemed for their loyalty, deep devotion, and courage. This breed thrives on human interaction from their family and does not like to be left alone for extended periods of time. German Shepherds are exceptionally wary of strangers. They will most generally get along with other household pets they have been raised with. This breed will attempt to perform the task of herding on anything and everything that moves. The German Shepherd is not recommended for the novice, apathetic, or sedentary owner. Care This breed requires daily brushing to minimize loose hair. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary using a mild shampoo to preserve the integrity of the coat. German Shepherds are prone to such health issues as blood disorders, elbow and hip dysplasia, epilepsy, flea allergies, digestive problems, and chronic eczema. Coat The German Shepherd is a double coat breed. The outer coat is harsh, straight, and thick. The under coat is dense and soft. The coat comes in a variety of colors such as black and tan, black and cream, black and silver, solid black, and sable. The German Shepherd comes in three varieties: rough coat, long hair, and long rough coat. This breed is a continuous shedder with seasonal heavy shedding. Training The German Shepherd requires early intensive and extensive socialization and obedience training. They will not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. This breed is obedient and quick to learn. Training must be done with respect, firmness, fairness, reward, and consistency. They are exceptionally talented in tracking, schutzhund, agility, obedience, fly-ball, and ring sport. The German Shepherd is often used in police work, search and rescue, as a guide for the blind, and military work. Activity This breed is happiest when given a job to do. They require strenuous exercise and enjoy securely leashed walks, family play sessions, and a large safely fenced area to romp and run freely in. The German Shepherd will do okay in an apartment or condominium dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise, stimulation, and attention. Written by: Howmuchisit. The German Shepherd is known for herding sheep as well as guarding them. While puppies can be found here, most of the time, the dogs will be older and will be rehabilitated to go to a new home. Lastly, dogs for show will tend to be the most expensive as they will be AKC certified and will adhere to the breed standard. These dogs are known for their cream-color coat and resemble that of a shepherd. The costs, according to Cuteness. It is 35 percent white and came into existence due to a gene mutation. What is going to be included? Any reputable breeder will include registration papers, a health guarantee, a health checkup via a vet, up-to-date vaccinations and a travel crate if shipped. Some breeders may also include a microchip, a starter kit that includes sample dog food and it may be spayed or neutered. Popular in North America and Canada. Czech Working Lines Originated from Czechoslovakia, this line was commonly used for border patrol work. This bloodline revolved around the Czechoslovakia Army and tend to have a high working drive and tend to be very agile. This dog has a distinct look: a larger head and bone structure, as well as a correct working structure. These bloodlines are also known for being very sound. West German Show Lines This is the most popular type of GSD in Germany and is bred to conform to the SV standard, which requires the dog to gain health clearance for the hips, elbows and a working title. The look will be very specific and will typically be uniform, most commonly in the black and red saddle back. West German Working Lines These dogs will have working blood and are said to be the closest of all German shepherd breeds to be produced under Max von Stephanitz. These dogs excel in many sports, real working jobs and positions of service. What are the extra costs? German Shepards are rather easy to train, but many opt to enroll them in obedience classes. It is ideal to send younger dogs to classes before they get too old. Recurring dog costs such as food, shelter, vet visits, and more will incur a monthly cost. Of course, this price can be much higher if you were to have an unnecessary hospital visit. With good care, the average German Sheperd can live 10 to 13 years. These dogs are rather large when compared to other breeds, measuring 24 to 26 inches tall. Females, on the other hand, are slightly smaller, measuring 22 to 24 inches. The average German shepherd weight is anywhere from 66 to 88 pounds for a male and 49 to 70 pounds for a female. As for traits, the dog is known to be strong, courageous, loyal and high intelligence. How can I save money? Consider checking out local adoption centers or German Shepard rescue groups to adopt older dogs. Oftentimes, these dogs will be younger than two years old can be as little as a few hundred dollars. This is a great way to offer an older dog a home and help out the local community. Advertising Disclosure: This content may include referral links. Please read our disclosure policy for more info. One would wonder - why is there such a huge range in price? What is the difference? For someone that is not experienced with the breed all the fancy abbreviations are not making much sense and often a pedigree is just a list of names. How to tell if the pedigree is breed-worthy? We often think that the higher the price, the higher the quality - but is it always true? Nobody wants to pay more if the same quality is available for less, but how to tell the difference? We will try our best to answer these and many other questions on this page and hopefully, will explain the GSD pricing and what impacts it, what to look for and if you do get what you pay for. How much should a German Shepherd cost? Let us be honest - when it comes to quality German Shepherd Dogs, there is no "cheap". We have great connections with breeders in USA, we stay in touch and monitor the market. We know what is offered for sale and what pricing policy different kennels are following. To this day we have yet to see a well-bred quality German Shepherd Dog puppy for sale at less than two thousand US dollars. There is a lot of time and funds invested into quality breeding stock dogs, training, health testing, food and care of the dogs. Responsible Breeders and enthusiasts are barely breaking even after selling their pups. Opposed to them are many "back-yard breeders" or pet owners that have no knowledge of the breed and the breeding requirements. They see an opportunity to make quick money and decide to breed their pet dogs in most times not even mature to a healthy breeding age and far off the breed conformation to produce " pet quality" puppies. When a buyer comes to a reputable breeder and gets set off by a high price, they seek someone with cheaper version. Who needs those fancy show titles and lengthy pedigree if all I want is just a pet? We firmly believe that back-yard-breeders are the biggest scam of the GSD breeding. In most cases, these dogs even come with an AKC registration, but this does not add quality to the puppy. Registration is just that - a registration and not a sign of quality. Every registration will come with a pedigree and quality pedigree does add quality, but nor a registration itself. We have seen pedigrees where none of the dogs on the entire pedigree hold any working or show titles. We have seen pedigrees where zero dogs in five generations have passed genetic health testing. So, when a person is trying to look for a low-cost German Shepherd Dog and goes to a BYB, they are most likely purchasing a mixed breed dog with a poor conformation and faulty temperament. In lines where dogs were not tested for generations is a high possibility of genetic health problems. Meanwhile, this "pet breeder" does not even see or understand the difference: we sometimes see advertisement of puppies for sale and can not believe our eyes. Everything on the ad screams: "Not a German Shepherd", but most people don't see it.Does this seems like a great deal to you? No to us! Not every litter is the same and our pricing reflects that accordingly. Show and Working homes that seek full AKC Registration need to contact us for pricing for puppies sold with full AKC - that will differ on a litter and situation. We accept PayPal transfers, Cash or Checks and may offer flexible payment plan options to help families that desire to have a dog, but can not afford to pay the full price up front. If dogs are sold in Wisconsin, we also charge sales tax in the amount 5. When we purchased our dogs, we paid at least double of what we are asking for the puppies. Many puppy buyers want to have a proof that their dog is a purebred. A pedigree of a dog is a first important point to consider when choosing a new puppy. But pedigree means very little when a person does not know how to read it or does not understand what to look for in a pedigree. It is essential that the buyer learns how to read a pedigree OR that a breeder explains a pedigree to a buyer. Not every pedigree is the same and some pedigrees mean very little, if nothing and are just bunch of names. Literally — just a bunch of names with absolutely no value. The names are just that — what the owner have named their dog and are not a real title. We have also made up this name for this article, but you get the idea, right? A puppy with a quality pedigree will have several generations of health tested, shown and titled dogs. Yes, not every breeder posts images of their dogs online, but there would be show mentions, trial mentions or pages created by other users on specialized dog-related websites, such as pedigreedatabase user created , workingdog or similar. How many VA dogs are on a pedigree and how far on a pedigree are they? Remember, all titles and health testing can be looked up. Also, pedigree allows to see inbreeding — breeding from closely related animals, especially over many generations. A good breeder understands the consequences of inbreeding and it is not uncommon to see inline breeding starting at sharing the same dog on a third line - puppy is "0", parents are 1, grandparents are 2, great-grandparents are 3 this is the closest inbreeding allowed. Not only this is unethical, but persistent inbreeding has produced an unusually high frequency of sufferers from genetic diseases and abnormalities. Pedigree is important, as it provides information on lineage, whether or not every dog on the pedigree is health tested, shown, titled, meets breed conformation and temperament. Each line has its own conformation standard, temperament traits and working abilities. Therefore, for this article we are going to quote a fellow hobby-breeder, Len from Hektor Haus. These shepherds should at a very minimum be AKC certified. With no paperwork, free might be acceptable if you just want to give a dog a new home. Hopefully the people responsible for their actions would also cover deworming, vaccinations and other fees. Unfortunately, American lines are now in hands of back-yard breeders, this has caused bad reputation of the breed, high number of health issues and lots of shelter dogs. We do not breed American Lines, as they do not satisfy our standards of breeding. German Working Line: These Shepherds range depending on the breeder, facilities, bloodline, etc. They can be more with additional training. German Show Lines: These are dogs that adhere to the breed standard and are significantly different animals. While any dog can be an excellent companion, these are beautiful, extraordinary family members with a little less drive than the working line. All health testing of a dog can also be looked up. It is important to understand what lines the dog comes from and how many dogs on the pedigree were tested and what grades were given to the dogs on the pedigree. A good breeder will have a record of all health testing for their breeding dogs and will be happy to show a proof of the grade. For OFA-evaluated dogs, a Certificate is issued and results can be found online. It is extremely important to evaluate the entire lineage. For German Shepherd, these are optional and are not a requirement for breeding. They simply are a tool to utilize while making breeding decisions. DM results are seen more now, while the test is not a guarantee to avoid a DM in puppies. Many times we see DM test being the only test done, as it is relatively low cost and can be done at home, without a visit to a vet. DM tested dog is NOT health tested dog. So, the chances of genetic health issues in a puppy are minimized. Breeders can only do their very best to carefully choose breeding stock dogs and health test them prior to breeding to minimize the risks of any health issues in puppies and trust that Mother Nature will allow only the best genes to be passed on. Just like in humans, two healthy parents can unfortunately have a baby with a health issue. Of course, in our human world feelings take over the genetic imbalances. But being a breeder, we choose the dogs we are letting to mate to produce a litter and therefore, we can analyze the dogs prior to the breeding to see how they are comparable and healthy. Working with a healthy pool of genes and choosing the best — brings the chances of health issues to a minimum. We also find it ethical to health test any dog before deciding to breed to ensure that this dog is capable to have a healthy pregnancy and safe delivery. When it comes to it, when you look at parents, do they look like the dog you dream to own? What do the titles mean? Given only to a group of outstanding German shepherds at a Sieger show. Outstanding German shepherds with full dentition and good character. Really about average, given to typical but not exceptional animals. Given to below average dogs. Poor quality dogs but of tolerable character. Given to dogs with faulty character or serious faults, ungraded. Why is this important? While a breed standard for a German Shepherd Dog is clearly written and can be found online, we must understand why some dogs rank higher, why some are disqualified and what to look for. One way to do so - is to look at dog or images of the dog shows yourself. The more dogs you see, the better you understand the quality of the breed. We believe that if a person can not see a difference, and to them "a dog is a dog", they most likely are better off adopting a dog from a shelter anyway. To us, the difference between well-bred and poorly-bred dog is tremendous, and just by looking at the images of parents or puppies, we can see where the breeding is going and what potential a puppy has. Please note, that we are not for breeding "the best looking dogs" only - No! They all are equally important. A good responsible breeder will do anything possible to stay as close to the breed standard as possible and eliminate breed faults from their breeding. Therefore, off-colors, off-size and off-temperament dogs must not be used in breeding. It must be a big red flag for a buyer. Source: thepuppyacademy. Investing in a well-bred puppy saves money and heartache in the long run. German Shepherds are one of the most popular breeds in America, ranking 3 according to the American Kennel Club in .Their distinctive appearance, intelligence, and loyalty make them recognizable and beloved companions and watchdogs. However, well-bred German Shepherds from reputable breeders are an expensive upfront investment. Responsible breeders invest in extensive health testing and only breed the healthiest dogs, producing higher quality puppies. However, this investment often saves money on healthcare expenses down the road. Source: newsweek. Breeding quality German Shepherd puppies involves far more than just pairing two dogs and selling the litter. Responsible breeders invest significant time showing and health testing their dogs before breeding. They carefully select pairings to produce puppies free of inheritable conditions common in German Shepherds. This level of dedication necessitates higher puppy prices. Breeders also extensively socialize litters and provide enrichment. All these measures result in well-rounded, healthy puppies and require real financial investment that factors into the cost. Any breeder claiming their puppies are healthy simply because the parents had no problems should be avoided, as only testing provides real insight into genetic health. This breeder has been specializing in purebred German Shepherd puppies since .Their dogs come from champion European bloodlines and undergo extensive health testing for issues common in the breed. German Shepherd Puppies NC breeds for sound temperament as well, producing puppies well-suited for any home. Their breedings are done carefully to AKC standards, and they offer a one year health guarantee. Their experience, professionalism, and commitment to the breed makes them a top choice. Source: nadelhaus. Keep in mind though that these puppies are often mixed breeds, not purebred German Shepherds. Doing your homework avoids issues and saves money long-term. German Shepherd Temperament and Behavior Here are some key points about temperament and behavior when considering a German Shepherd puppy: While training is important, temperament is also genetic to a degree. Nervousness, reactivity, and other undesirable traits can be passed from parents to puppies. Responsible breeders carefully select pairings not just for physical traits but also for compatible temperaments. They try to produce puppies with sound, stable personalities. Irresponsible breeders pay little attention to parental temperaments. Cheaper puppies often come from pairings with incompatible or poor temperaments. You may end up with unpredictable or even aggressive tendencies from poorly-bred puppies. Aggression can be genetic. Spending more upfront for a puppy from health and temperament tested parents can save you money, time and stress compared to dealing with behavior issues later on. Good breeding produces puppies with higher chances for excellent health and temperament. Source: shepherdsense. As with many dog breeds, German Shepherds with unusual coat colors and patterns often cost more than dogs with the more common colorings. However, color should not be the main factor. Temperament and health are much more important than a unique look when choosing a puppy. They are mixed-breed dogs, usually Shepherds crossed with Poodles or Shelties. But they are not purebred. Do not choose based on size or rare colors alone. Make sure to buy from ethical breeders who prioritize health, genetics and temperament over looks. Stick to responsible AKC German Shepherd breeders for the best chance of getting a purebred puppy with good genes. Here is a summary of working vs show line German Shepherds and how it impacts price: German Shepherds were originally bred as working dogs but now also serve as show dogs and pets. Show line Shepherds are bred for conformation and make good pets and companions. Working line Shepherds are bred for roles like IPO, police work, military, etc. While expensive for pet owners, typical prices for those involved in dog sports and working roles. Focus less on price and more on finding an ethical breeder who breeds for health and temperament. German Shepherds need high-quality, high-protein diets and eat a lot, especially while growing. Helps manage heavy shedding. Recommended for common behavior issues. Important for destructive chewers. Proper preventative care helps avoid bigger medical bills later on. Buying high-quality items upfront saves money over time. Proper medical care early on prevents issues later. Reputable breeders devote significant time and effort into breeding dogs free of genetic issues , and this dedication is reflected in their higher puppy prices. It will likely cost more in the long run for health issues. Make sure parents are health tested for hip dysplasia, which can develop young and becomes expensive to manage. Paying for a well-bred puppy is an investment. Consider adopting from a rescue group or shelter. Ask reputable breeders about a slightly older puppy from a previous litter at a discount. See if your chosen breeder offers any kind of discount for repeat customers. Set up an estimated monthly budget and factor in long-term healthcare costs. Focus on finding an ethical, responsible breeder who fully tests health. Paying a higher initial price for a healthy, well-bred puppy saves money later on. Never compromise on health and breeder reputation just to save money upfront. A German Shepherd is a long-term commitment. Source: allthingsdogs. Higher for rare colors or top pedigree. Cutting costs leads to issues. Health problems like hip dysplasia and behavior issues like aggression can be genetic. Poor breeding perpetuates them. Take time finding an ethical, responsible breeder who fully health tests their dogs. Paying more upfront for a well-bred puppy saves money long-term by preventing problems. Focus on health, genetics, temperament — not low prices. A GSD is a long commitment. Invest in a well-bred puppy. Her diverse range of interests, from technology and business to health and wellness, allows her to bring a fresh perspective to each topic she covers. June 12, Home » How much should a German Shepherd cost? Older puppies with additional training from responsible breeders often cost more. If you are not familiar with the huge differences in shepherds, please reference our article on the different types of German Shepherd Dogs and selecting a German Shepherd breeder. Rescue Dogs There are many great rescues that charge a reasonable fee. There are many costs that go into rescuing dogs. Some shelters specialize in rehabilitating German Shepherds, and this can take a lot of time and money. These shepherds should at a very minimum be AKC certified. With no paperwork, free might be acceptable if you just want to give a dog a new home. Hopefully the people responsible for their actions would also cover deworming, vaccinations and other fees. German Working Line These Shepherds range depending on the breeder, facilities, bloodline, etc. They can be more with additional training. German Show Lines These are dogs that adhere to the breed standard and are significantly different animals. While any dog can be an excellent companion, these are beautiful, extraordinary family members with a little less drive than the working line. The very first steps to picking out a puppy should first be you determining what it is you would like out of your new puppy. First, determine which German Shepherd type fits you best, then, carefully select a breeder. Thank you, Jean-Francois: How much is a purebred German Shepherd puppy without papers worth? I'm guessing it's a rip-off. Our nonpaper German shepherd just had 12, her 1st litter of no papers German shepherd pups. You can visually see the traits. I do suggest making sure vaccinations are given before buying the puppy. Answer by JTP Actually, that is a great price! I would even say that's pretty cheap, especially since it's a German Shepherd. Answer by SuperGirl It doesn't matter if the parents have papers. Parents with papers should have puppies that have papers as well. I'm also guessing mom and dad don't really have papers either, because papers come to puppies with papered parents. Answer by Kayleigh Let me explain what happened to us. I was young at the time and didn't realize what "limited" rights were. This means the woman who sold me my puppy would not give me the right to register my purebred GSD as a purebred GSD unless I got her spayed. We bought her with the intention of eventually breeding and keeping some puppies for ourselves but also selling a few. I would be breeding my dog with a purebred GSD who is registered, but since I cannot register my dog due to this lady's way of giving me limited rights I would not be able to register the pups either. She is our rescue dog. I got a blood test done that shows she is a purebred German Shepherd, but there is no way of knowing whether she was registered or not. We are going to breed her with one of my friend's purebred German Shepherd males. I was thinking of selling the puppies for around , which is about 1, dollars cheaper than what they are selling registered puppies for in this area. If your breeder had not run these genetic tests on your dog—or if you adopt a German Shepherd from a rescue or shelter, you can run the Embark Dog DNA Test using a simple saliva test you can perform at home. Dogs with CLAD, type III typically exhibit symptoms such as recurrent ear infections, skin infections, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections. Dogs with DM first lose coordination in their hind legs, then they lose muscle mass and eventually the ability to walk. It is caused by a lack of one of the proteins needed for blood to clot properly. Dogs with hemophilia A will often suffer from uncontrolled bleeding, most commonly into the joints. Uric acid is a waste product that is normally eliminated from the body through the kidneys. When the kidneys are not able to remove enough uric acid, it builds up in the blood and can cause health problems. Dogs with hyperuricosuria are at risk for developing bladder stones, kidney stones, and other health problems. P-glycoprotein is involved in the transport of drugs and other molecules across cell membranes. Drugs that are known to cause adverse reactions in MDR1 dogs include digoxin, ivermectin, loperamide, and milbemycin. There are several different types of MPS, each caused by a deficiency in a specific enzyme needed to break down mucopolysaccharides. It is caused by a genetic mutation that impairs the ability of the blood to clot properly. This can lead to frequent and sometimes severe bleeding events which can be difficult to control, even with the help of medications. Dogs with this condition are at an increased risk for bleeding and may require lifelong monitoring and medical management. Symptoms include weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, and increased water consumption. Affected dogs have problems with the development of their skin, hair, nails, and teeth. They may also have problems with sweating and the function of their tears and salivary glands. Dogs with this disorder usually have a very thin coat of hair, often with areas that are bald or have very thin hair. Their skin may be dry and cracked, and they may develop sores on their skin. Nails may be abnormally shaped or missing altogether, and teeth may be missing or poorly developed. Dogs with X-linked ectodermal dysplasia often experience overheating. Attend a sanctioned dog show and talk with breeders and competitors for recommendations. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations regarding reputable breeders. Check the Facebook page of the breeder and read through the comments. Remember, however, that comments can be deleted by the page owner. The breeder should be happy to share the name and contact information for customers. Ask questions. Lots of questions. The breeder should be glad to share the test results from the health tests and screenings and should be happy to let you meet at least the mother if not the sire as well of the German Shepherd Dog puppies. Ask how often the dogs are bred. Ask to tour the kennels. Are they well maintained? Do the dogs look healthy? Beware of operations that will not let you tour the kennels and breeders that want to meet you in a parking lot to hand over the puppy. Be prepared for questions. The breeder should ask YOU questions as well; be suspicious if the breeder has no questions about your past history with pets, your living situation, etc. The breeder should want to know how much experience you have with herding breeds, what your training plans are and your plans for exercising the dog. Ask if the breeder will take the German Shepherd puppy—or adult dog—back if necessary. Ask for a contract. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. German Shepherd breeders may adopt out of the area but, nonetheless, you will want to go to the breeder to meet the parents, view the kennels and bring home your puppy in person. This will add to your expenses—but breeders that transport a puppy by air are putting the dog at risk. If you want to buy a German Shepherd Dog from an online breeder, please think again. There are numerous scams; people spend thousands of dollars for a dog and never receive a puppy. AKC warns potential pet parents to be wary of any seller asking for payment by Venmo, in gift cards or as a wire transfer. Dogs purchased from puppy mills can mean years of heartache and expensive veterinary care—and perpetuation of a cruel industry. The pros of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder: You may be able to select a puppy—including a choice of gender. A reputable breeder will be passionate about German Shepherds and will a resource for years to come. The cons of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder You will pay far more for a cattle dog from a breeder than a rescue or shelter. If you find a breeder who has German Shepherd puppies for sale at prices much lower than you are seeing from other breeders, you must suspect you are dealing with a backyard breeder who has not done health screening, with an online seller who is operating a puppy mill or with someone who is running a scam. You will need to wait until puppies are available. You will need to do your own due diligence to select a reputable breeder. German Shepherd Dogs in rescues are far less expensive that those at a breeder. Puppies under a year old will be the most costly. This group provides funding to a network of GSD rescues — they do not have dogs themselves for adoption. They have a list of affiliated rescues that can help located adoptable GSDs in your region. A breed rescue is, like the name suggests, a pet rescue that is specifically for one breed of dog. These are generally small non-profit groups that operate through a foster system of volunteers who love the breed. German Shepherd rescues specialize in German Shepherds of all ages; some have primarily purebred German Shepherds while others may also have adoptable Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherds. How to Find Breed Rescues Along with the list mentioned above, many breed rescues list their adoptable dogs on large adoption sites such as:. If you are looking to buy a German Shepherd puppy, then you should find one from a reputable breeder. While these puppies are more expensive, a reputable breeder can guarantee the health and behavior of the puppy. These dogs are prone to genetic diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia. These health issues can be avoided by genetically testing the parents, which is something reputable breeders usually do. When improperly raised puppies might have behavioral issues and can cause a lot of damage if they bite someone. A good breeder will have their dogs pass a temperament test. German Shepherd Dog Price While most dogs in shelters are adults, adopting a German Shepherd is a great way to find a dog without supporting unethical breeding. Sometimes these hardworking shepherd dogs are given up because they are very energetic. Not everyone is able to take care of a dog that needs a lot of attention and exercise. Some people buy a German Shepherd puppy without understanding the work involved in caring for this breed. Why Are They So Expensive? Breeding a healthy and well-behaved German Shepherd puppy is not easy! It is not as simple as crossing German Shepherds together. However, if you want a puppy of good temperament that is genetically healthy, there are other costs involved in the breeding and raising. This is especially important for a German Shepherd. You do not want a puppy that grows up to be aggressive or that suffers from mobility issues due to hip and elbow dysplasia. Papers A paperless German Shepherd puppy will be the cheapest. Typically breeders invest as little as possible in these pups. You get a puppy just how it is, without knowing its pedigree or background. A puppy with health certifications, temperament test results, and registration papers costs more than this. However, those papers will be beneficial not just for you, but also the puppy. This means your puppy meets the breed standard and is a purebred dog. The last thing you want is to buy a German Shepherd wolf-mix thinking it is purebred. Veterinarian Visits Reputable breeders not only genetically health test the parents, but they will also take the puppy to see a vet before 8 weeks for a basic health check. During these visits breeders will also have the puppies vaccinated, dewormed and placed on preventatives. When you buy a German Shepherd puppy from a reputable breeder, they will offer you a health guarantee. Most will also be able to provide you proof that the puppy has passed a temperament test. Training Some breeders also take the time to socialize and train their puppies. Many experienced breeders have a specialized training program that begins the process of potty training and basic obedience. This will mean you have an easier time housetraining your puppy, but you will have to pay for their efforts! These are all good signs that the puppy you are buying is of good quality. This will mean you are more likely to avoid any temperament issues or having to pay for vet visits to diagnose and treat hip and elbow dysplasia. Bloodlines Breeders who focus on breeding championship bloodlines will charge more for their puppies. A family might not need such a high-quality German Shepherd. All they need is a healthy and well-behaved puppy that will bring them years of happiness. However, there are many people who need a working dog or show dog. The most expensive dogs are those that are bred to be champions or protective and hard-working. Some breeders spend thousands of dollars just training a world class service dog. A family friendly guard dog with a protective temperament is not easy to breed consistently. Breeders have to factor in not just the genetics, but also the temperament and training. Origin The most expensive types of German Shepherds are those that are imported directly from Germany. Breeders must pay to stud and import these dogs which is not cheap. Since the German Shepherd breed originated in Germany, breeders in the US import dogs from Germany to breed puppies with a purebred lineage. Breeding in Europe is more regulated so the bloodlines are better protected. These puppies are known as European German Shepherds and are slightly different. They are smaller, have straighter backs and brighter coat colors. Some people think they look similar to a belgian malinois. Most European dogs are bred to be working dogs, while American dogs are more frequently bred for companionship. This is the same for American and German Rottweilers and American vs. European Dobermans. All of these breeder will be able to provide: Pedigree and kennel club registration. Documents that certify the puppy is free of any disease and has been checked by a veterinarian. A health warranty. Health records that guarantee the parents are genetically healthy and will not pass on elbow or hip dysplasia. These German Shepherd breeders all breed their puppies in accordance with the breed standard. None of them will sell puppies that are not registered with the American Kennel Club. Another good place to start looking for breeders is the American Kennel Club marketplace. Many of these puppies are bred to be family dogs and come with their papers. As you start looking into more well-known breeders or those that produce dogs of championship or working bloodlines, then the price of a German Shepherd starts to increase. Julia was a German Shepherd bred by the Harrison K-9 facility, highly trained in protection. She could also understand commands in three different languages. Her intelligence, as well as her ability to protect, were why she was priced so highly. Julia was bought by a billionaire businessman in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The rarest coat color is panda, which is why it is also the most expensive. These German Shepherds are black and white. It is a piebald pattern where the black coat is splotched with large patches of white. Some puppies can have other colors like tan, instead of white. Panda dogs are purebred, but the rarity of this mutation makes them very hard to find. There are very few breeders that sell the panda color. And he actually cost nothing! By the end of his life, Rin Tin Tin had appeared in 27 Hollywood films. Rin Tin Tin most notably helped Warner Bros. But these dogs come in more than just this classic color! There are 11 colors that are recognized by the breed standard. Check out the table below for some German Shepherd prices based on coat color. The tan color covers the chest, belly and legs. White A white puppy has a furry coat that is entirely white, allowing it to blend in with the snow. Its eyes and nose are black as coal. Black A black German Shepherd has a coat that is entirely black. Any other color would classify them as a bi-color. Blue A blue German Shepherd is not literally blue, but has a gray color with a bluish hue. Sable The sable color is one of the most common colors, but is a bit more interesting than the black and tan. The hairs of these dogs have bands of tan and black, giving them a very unique coloring. Some of the factors that contribute to this cost are: Food. If a breeder tries to tell you that his puppies are healthy because their parents never had any issues — do not believe him! It is impossible to diagnose e. Where can you find cheap German Shepherd Dogs? The question is — do you want to purchase a dog with questionable health and temperament? These dogs often are not purebred German Shepherd puppies, but are mixed with e. Labradors, Pitbulls or Golden Retrievers. If you end up with a dog with genetically based health conditions however, be prepared to spend a multiple of the original purchase price on vet costs! Temperament and behavior While a lot of good manners can be taught through consistent training, temperament is genetic to a certain level. When you buy an extra cheap German Shepherd puppy, you not only get a dog with questionable health, but also with unpredictable temperament! Even aggression can be genetic and can be passed on from the mom and dad to the offspring. You can save yourself a lot of time, nerves and money spent on future behavioral training by getting a well-bred and more expensive dog. What is the most expensive type of German Shepherd? Like in many dog breeds, certain rare German Shepherd colors are much more expensive than the most common colors and patterns. It is much more important that your puppy has a sound temperament and fits in well with your family and lifestyle than that he has a certain rare look. These dogs are mutts German Shepherds mixed with Miniature Poodles, Shelties or other smaller breeds. Once more, be certain to not decide on your future dog based on looks alone. A stable temperament and good health is much more integral than a certain size or weight. Working lines vs show lines The German Shepherd was originally bred as a working dog. Since his original use as a shepherd dog however, he has filled many different roles — from guarding properties over being used in the show ring to participating in Schutzhund and IPO trails. Depending on which lines your German Shepherd Dog comes from, the prices can vary a lot! Show line German Shepherds are the dogs that are bred for conformation shows. These are the type of dogs you should decide on if you would like a shepherd puppy as a pet and companion animal. If you are interested in using your German Shepherd as a protection dog and to participate in IPO trials, you should pick one from working lines. There are a lot of highly successful working line breeders both in North America and Europe. For this price, you get an absolutely flawless dog with extensive skills and perfect obedience. Some US dog owners interested in Schutzhund choose to import a puppy from old European working lines. While this might sound insanely high for a pet dog owner, for Schutzhund enthusiasts it is a typical price for a pedigreed German Shepherd pup. How much does it cost a month to own a German Shepherd? This will cover the basics: high-quality food and regular vet checks. Some German Shepherd owners spend considerably more money. Professional grooming is necessary for many German Shepherd owners, as these dogs shed heavily. This breeds tends to exhibit several behavioral issues that can be difficult to fix for first-time dog owners, including: Separation anxiety.

Loves to chase his tail and pesky flies, he is a soft-at-heart pup who has a Big character. A change in our circumstances unfortunately means we are unable to keep him although we would most dearly love to. A loving home for him is needed. He's had a health check from the vet and comes from healthy and well-tempered parents. Absolutely loves his food so will be able to train fully. He understands pointing to indicate a direction for him. House trained, microchipped and wormed. He is good at being protective over guarding the household and is not in the slightest territorial over food or toys. He will allow you to take a bone or food off him with ease. He loves to play ball more than anything, and loves walks, long grass, new scents, chewing on moon bones and chicken. This lovely pup needs a sizeable garden and ideally, someone who is used to similar breeds and has time to train him fully. He has great potential. He would be ideal for flyball. He can jump up - he is only a puppy so can be trained - and will certainly grow up into a big, handsome dog. He has excellent parentage. He is a stunning boy and whenever we go out always attracts compliments. A good choice if you're looking for a good-natured furry friend that will be your loyal companion and protector for years to come, He is very loveable characterful boy with a great personality and a goofy soul who just wants to play. Replies to msgs after 7pm .There was nothing wrong with the old one it is just we wanted to be able to bring you more news and give you more information about our dogs. Giantlands german shepherds are first and foremost bred to be healthy happy head turning companions. To be loved and adored by us and those who become part of the Giantlands family. Our first love is of course the long coat and we very excited as the kennel club is closer and closer to finalising the revised breed standard to allow them to compete on a level footing with the standard coats. We will be at crufts this year competing along side the standard coats dreaming of the day the long coats have cc's of their own. The fact that we enjoy to take our dogs to shows and they do them selfs and us proud is just an added bonus. We love to show them off and love to hear feed back and receive photos of your Giantlands family member. We are proud to be members of the kennel club assured breeders scheme and our check gave us a glowing report. The report is here to be Seen if you want to read it. We set our selfs high standards in every aspect of breeding from the most important temperament to health tests and of course conformation it is no good having a dog with a lovely nature and someone say isn't your dog lovely what is it! We also set our selfs the same high standards when it comes to showing. We decided that as the breed originated in Germany why not go there to show so we did. We have also had some wonderful results in Belgium, Holland and of course the UK. Please do not be offended when we ask you as many questions as we expect you to ask us. We have bred these dogs with love and passion and they are only available to homes we are satisfied will provide them with the best life style possible for them. We often have waiting lists as we do not breed very often and can not produce puppies to order. We endorse our puppies and they all leave home with a contract as part of the Assured Breeders Reqyuirements We are always here to provide help and advice throughout your new family members life and if you have a question we don't know the answer to.We will find it for you. Please even though some of our dogs have working dogs in their pedigrees we do NOT breed guard dogs we breed well adjusted mentally balanced healthy happy companions. His stud book number qualifies him for Crufts for life. Great to share this special day with great friends. Temperament and character fabulous x Our special girl Inka photo by Tony Mullard Inka gains SG1 at our first show in so proud of this girl. The Dutch Sieger Show Kooki with her awards. Giantlands Long Haired Germans Shepherd Dogs are known for there expectional temperaments, beauty, type and size. We don't breed guard dogs our are Pet and Companion only. Sorry we do not export. There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a breeder, so read on for tips on how to make the best decision for you and your dog. Research: The first step in choosing a German shepherd breeder is to do your research. Once you have a list of potential breeders, narrow it down by doing more research on each one. Find out how long they have been breeding German shepherds, what their breeding practices are, and whether they have any health concerns with their dogs. Health Screenings: A good German shepherd breeder will have their dogs health screened before breeding them. This means that the parents of your puppy will have been checked for common health problems that can affect German shepherds. This is important because it helps to ensure that your puppy will be healthy and free of these conditions. Temperament Testing: A good German shepherd breeder will also temperament test their dogs before breeding them. This means that they will evaluate the dogs to make sure that they are good candidates for breeding. They will check things like how the dog responds to strangers, whether they are aggressive, and how well they socialize with other dogs. This is important because it helps to ensure that you will get a puppy with a good temperament. Ask For Reviews: Once you have found a few potential German shepherd breeders, ask for reviews from people who have purchased puppies from them. This can be an excellent way to get first-hand information about the breeder and their dogs. Visit Breeder Permises: After you have done your research and asked for reviews, it is time to visit the breeders in person. It is also a good opportunity to ask the breeder any questions that you may have. These are just a few things to keep in mind when choosing a German shepherd breeder in the UK. By doing your research and asking the right questions, you can find the perfect breeder for your new furry friend. If you know any great German Shepherd Breeders who live in UK, please let us know in the comments below. So we can add it to our list. What is the Breeder Name? Where are they located in UK? It really helps others who are looking for German Shepherd puppies in UK. And we believe there are many but we thoroughly review and close check the breeder before adding it to our list. If your friend and relative looking for a German Shepherd Puppies in the UK, you can share this post with them. Post navigation.

Target does not represent or warrant that this information is accurate or complete. On occasion, manufacturers may modify their items and update their labels. We recommend that you do not rely solely on the information presented. If you have a specific question about this item, you may consult the item's label, contact the manufacturer directly or call Target Guest Services at .Description Welcome to our Bearington Explore line of realistic stuffed animals ranging from favorite pets and farm friends to wild woodland, desert, savannah, and undersea creatures. Folks at museums, zoos, aquariums, and wildlife centers adore these carefully crafted critters and your little nature lover will, too. Bearington plush toys are ideal for birthday and holiday gifting, imaginative play, and any day when the world would feel better with an extra hug. Report incorrect product info. Estimated ship dimensions: 1. This item must be returned within 90 days of the date it was purchased in store, shipped, delivered by a Shipt shopper, or made ready for pickup. See the return policy for complete information. Ask a question. Measuring eleven inches long and eight inches tall, our stuffed bulldog puppy has soft and thick brown and white fur, brown puppy dog eyes, and a black button nose. This plush bulldog puppy is proud to promise that it comes completely housebroken and will never, ever, never chew up your favorite baseball glove! With Hardy the Plush Bulldog Puppy, you get to enjoy all of the cute and fun aspects of owning a bulldog puppy without having to do any of the work. As with the entire line of Douglas Cuddle Toys, this plush bulldog is made from all new child safe materials, is rigorously tested for quality assurance, and meets or exceeds both the US Government and the voluntary Toy Safety Standards. Recommended for ages two and up, this bulldog puppy stuffed animal is conveniently machine washable. Douglas is a family owned business that has been making heirloom level stuffed animals and toys since .As with all of Douglas' superb stuffed animals, only the highest quality materials and craftsmanship are used in the construction of this stuffed bulldog puppy, and each stuffed animal is thoughtfully designed to evoke a sense of endearment and to give them that adorable look that clearly defines them as a Douglas Cuddle Toy. When you buy a Douglas Cuddle Toy, you can trust that you are buying quality.

How does the Labradoodle growth chart work? The following numbers are estimates based on the litter of a Labrador Retriever crossed with a standard Poodle. If your pup's Poodle parent is a toy size, then they are likely to be significantly smaller than these estimates. Their health is what matters most, so if you have questions or concerns about your puppy's development, reach out to your veterinarian. At what age is a Labradoodle fully grown? Labradoodles typically need 12 to 18 months to reach their full size, especially if their parents were on the heavier side of the average weight spectrum. Large breeds grow slower and take longer to reach their full size compared to small and medium-sized dog breeds, which usually reach maturity within nine to 11 months. How big should a 6-month-old Labradoodle be? A 6-month-old Labradoodle may weigh anywhere between 40 and 55 pounds. As a general rule, male Labradoodles weigh more than their female counterparts. In terms of height, a 6-month-old Labradoodle puppy will stand around 14 to 18 inches tall at the shoulders, but this varies based on their genetic makeup. Pro Tip: Download our new puppy checklist for tips on how to set up a vaccination schedule, essential pet care supplies, and more. How much bigger will my Labradoodle get? There are a few ways you can estimate how much more your Labradoodle may grow. Most Labradoodles need anywhere from 12 to 18 months to reach their full size. If your pup is younger than a year old, they are likely still growing. Refer to our Labradoodle weight chart to estimate how many more pounds they might put on as they mature into adulthood. If they look oversized compared to their limbs, then they're probably still filling out. Oversized paws are a classic puppy feature indicating that your pup still has more growth underway. Lastly, if you purchased your puppy from a breeder, you can contact them about your Labradoodle's weight. Alhough the breed varies greatly in size, knowing the weight of your puppy's parents and those of previous litters can help you predict your Labradoodle's adult size. What is the size of a full-grown Labradoodle? As a hybrid dog breed, Labradoodles vary significantly in size based on their geneology. Per Agape Labradoodles , adult Labradoodles typically weigh over 45 pounds, with some Labradoodles weighing as much as pounds. However, most Labradoodles will weigh between 50 and 90 pounds. In [terms of height], Labradoodles stand 21 to 24 inches tall when measured from paw to shoulder, or approximately two feet excluding their neck and crown of the head. How do I make sure my Labradoodle is healthy? Our Labradoodle puppies are important, cherished family members who we want the best for. One of the best ways to help your Labradoodle thrive is by taking them to regular veterinary appointments to have them routinely checked out and evaluated. Prevention is always better than treatment, and regular veterinary exams provide your veterinarian with the opportunity to screen your Labradoodle for disease. Your puppy will need to see the veterinarian several times in their first six months of life for core vaccinations against things like Rabies, and then at least once a year as an adult for annual health check-ups. Like their parents, Labradoodles are also more susceptible to hip dysplasia , a common orthopedic condition that occurs when the hip joint forms improperly. Hip dysplasia can lead to pain in their back legs, impaired mobility, and even lameness if not treated - fortunately, the condition is treatable with surgery. When over 20, pet parents were surveyed, only .As loving pet parents, it can be devastating to think that our four-legged friend could develop a painful disease that requires expensive treatment. This is where pet insurance comes in. Most pet parents opt for accident and illness pet insurance plans as they cover both injuries and most illnesses, such as hip dysplasia or eye diseases. Pet wellness plans can be added to your insurance coverage to help you pay for preventive veterinary care, like your regular vet exams, x-rays , dental cleanings , vaccinations, and more. Like humans, dogs are living longer, which creates an even bigger need for excellent veterinary care so that our dogs can live their happiest and healthiest lives. Pet insurance helps alleviate the financial strain that's often caused by vet visit costs. If your Labradoodle puppy gets sick or hurt, you and your veterinarian can work together to provide your pup with the best treatment plan - without worrying about how much it might cost. Key Takeaways Adult Labradoodles weigh pounds on average. The parent Poodle breed has toy and standard size variations that impact the size of the offspring, along with other genetic factors. Most Labradoodles grow until months of age. The breed is known for several congenital health disorders, and is especially prone to hip dysplasia. Pet insurance can protect your puppy and provide a financial safety net for vet costs throughout their life. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Curly coat: Dense, thick curls that have no odor and are non-shedding. The Labradoodle can come is a palette of beautiful colors, such as gold, apricot, caramel, white, black, red, chocolate, blue and parti-color. Curious about how to groom and trim that luxurious coat? Check out this video: 2. Medium: 20 inches 50 cm tall; up to 45 lbs 20 kg in weight. Miniature: 16 inches 40 cm tall; up to 25 lbs 11 kg in weight. No responsible breeder will guarantee that their Labradoodle puppies will definitely grow to be an exact size. Both are high energy dogs who love to fetch and swim. Both make wonderful family dogs and do well with children and other pets. Labradoodles tend to have shorter coats. The Goldendoodle has a longer, shaggier coat inherited from the Golden Retriever. Both are friendly dogs, but Goldendoodles are highly social and not afraid to run up to anyone, while the Labradoodle can be stand-offish, taking time to get used to strangers. You can compare the Labradoodle and Goldendoodle some more in this video. Bonus: Even More Doodles! These are two other popular Poodle mixes that are similar to the Labradoodle. You can learn more about the Australian Labradoodle here. This Poodle and Schnauzer mix hangs with the small-sized dogs, reaching 15 lbs 7 kg in weight. It makes a great companion or service dog. Learn more about the Schnoodle here. Though not aggressive, Labradoodle temperament can vary. Agility, quick thinking skills and a lustrous coat of hypoallergenic curls have made it an outstanding show dog, as well as a favored breed by those who suffer from allergies. The noble Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers are highly popular in North America and the UK, especially for their use as service dogs for the disabled. Highly intelligent and sharp as a whip, this breed is in-tune with feelings and actions, learning quickly, displaying loyalty and taking on the role of caretaker. As a Retriever breed, the Labrador has a reputation for being a phenomenal hunter and water dog. They love to swim! This is a big dog, weighing in at up to 80 lbs 29—36 kg. Its coat is short, dense and water resistant. It can come in three colors: black, yellow and chocolate. Watch those leather loafers! Because of their size and energetic personality, plenty of space is recommended for a Labradoodle to blow of steam. That means small apartments and long hours in a crate do not benefit this stimulated hybrid. Take your Labbidoo out for a jog or let her splash in your swimming pool if you have one. Homes with a fenced in yard are ideal for your dog to have some off-leash time to run about and frolic freely. Add in some early socialization to help curb bad habits and control over-exuberance when meeting with children or other dogs. Ear infections: Floppy ears can trap dirt and moisture, leading to painful infections. Hip dysplasia: An abnormal formation of the hip socket that can cause arthritis and lameness. Elbow dysplasia: These are abnormalities that cause degeneration of the elbow joint. Epilepsy: Seizures that result from an unknown cause. Diabetes Mellitus: A disease in which the body suffers from a shortage of insulin. Hypothyroidism: Occurs when the immune system attacks the thyroid. Feeding Specific nutrition requirements differ from dog to dog based on needs and size. For the Labradoodle, use high-quality dog food and divide 1 to 2. Avoid feeding throughout the day, because they have been known to suffer from gastric torsion like the Labrador Retriever. The thickness and length will determine the sort of grooming needed. Longer coats will need trimming every six weeks. Second, soaring popularity has lead to an infection of puppy mills popping up like nasty sores. These are to be avoided at all costs. Therefore, the price is cheaper. Do your breeder research thoroughly and visit the premises where the puppies hail from. With puppy mills wreaking havoc, Labradoodle rescues have become more prevalent. Check out these websites for listings:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. When considering bringing a new dog into your life, it is always important to consider how long that dog is likely to live. In this article, we will go through exactly how long you should expect your Labradoodle to live, which is largely determined by whether their poodle parent was a standard, miniature, or toy poodle. We will also go through all the different life stages of a Labradoodle and what to expect in each. What Is A Labradoodle? Labradoodles are crossbreed dogs that you get when you mix a Labrador retriever with a poodle. They are varieties that are a mix between a Lab and all the different poodle sizes including standard, miniature, and toy. They were bred because, while the temperament, intelligence, and trainability of Labrador retrievers make them excellent service dogs, they shed—a lot. This can be a huge problem when it comes to taking them into hospitals, public places such as restaurants, and even cleaning up after them at home. Poodles were chosen to crossbreed because they have a low-shedding coat. Their tight, curly coats mean that instead of leaving hair wherever they go, it gets caught up in their coat. Poodles are also highly intelligent dogs, even more intelligent than Labradors, and also very friendly, having been bred as companion animals. They are less outgoing than Labradors, but overall it was thought that they would add to, rather than subtract from, the characteristics that make Labradors excellent service dogs. You can read more about the Labradoodle coat and shedding in this article. How Long Do Labradoodles Live? All Labradoodles have a lifespan of roughly 12 to 14 years. Various factors influence where each dog is likely to fall within this scale. Labrador retrievers and standard poodles both tend to live around 12 years. So if you have a standard Labradoodle, you should probably expect them to have a slightly shorter lifespan at around the year mark. Miniature and toy poodles often live longer, as small dogs tend to live longer in general. So if you have a Lab that is mixed with one of these smaller breeds, you might expect them to live for an additional year or so. While these expectations are based on the average lifespan of their parent pups, some research suggests that crossbreed dogs live longer than their parents, by about a year or two. There are plenty of examples of Labradoodles living well into their late teens. Labradoodle Life Stages Throughout their lives, you can expect your Labradoodle to pass through five main life stages: puppyhood, adolescence, adulthood, middle age, and senior. Exactly when they will pass through each of these stages again depends on whether the Labradoodle is a standard, miniature, or toy cross. Smaller dogs tend to grow to maturity more quickly but then live longer. Conversely, larger dogs stay puppies longer but have shorter overall life expectancies. Puppyhood Labradoodles tend to be classified as puppies for the first five months of their lives. But just like with human babies, because they are growing so quickly at this time, they will pass through a number of different puppy stages. It is during this stage that you will find that littermates love to cuddle up and spend the day sleeping one on top of one another. During this stage, they are more interested in their mother and siblings than there are in people, but they do begin to learn that there is a bigger world and might start to explore a little in the later weeks. It is around this stage that they can also start to move onto dog food. This is often a necessity, as the mother will refuse to suckle them as their growing teeth cause her pain. This is a very important time, as they are also very impressionable. So they need plenty of attention, praise, and love. Training them at this stage will also teach them about action and reward, which will make them easier to train to do other things as adults. They will already understand that correct behavior can result in good things. At this stage, you can also start to expose the puppy to new people and new experiences. This is essential to the socialization process, so that they learn what to do when confronted by the unknown. This is a great time to try to take the puppy with you most everywhere you go. Essential training should continue throughout this stage. Adolescence Much like humans, during this stage Labradoodle puppies seem like they are either eating or sleeping all the time to manage big growth spurts, or getting into trouble. This period tends to last from around five or six months until about two years of age. But they also become more unpredictable as hormones start to play a role. Expect them to want to play all the time, to jump up a lot, and to do things that test your limits. Nevertheless, at this stage your Labradoodle should be fully housebroken, should have passed through that biting phase, and should be better at paying attention to you. They also lose their awkwardness around this age and seem more coordinated. Labradoodles in particular will start to show quite a bit of strength and agility at this stage. They should have all their adult teeth, but they still love to chew! This is something they inherit from the Labrador parent. Make sure to have an abundance of chew toys available to focus their otherwise destructive chewing. It is also during adolescence that territorial behavior tends to kick in. Your pup may become protective of their possessions, territorial of their home, and could start to bark at strangers. Also be aware that at some stage during adolescence—it can vary quite a bit—your dog will become sexually mature. Adulthood Depending on the particular type of Labradoodle that you have, you can expect them to settle down into adulthood at between two and three years of age. They should be about fully grown at this stage. So instead of getting bigger, you need to worry about them getting fatter! While it is natural for them to fill out a bit in the early stages of adulthood, it is important to keep an eye on their weight and their diet at this time. They will enter their physical and mental prime during this period, as they are much calmer and more tranquil. If they are being trained as a service dog, they can start working once they reach adulthood. None of this is to say that Labradoodles cannot continue to develop and learn new things at this time. Labradors and Labradoodles are very easy to train and can be taught new skills and behaviors at almost any age. Middle Age Your dog will start to enter the later stages of their life at about the ripe old age of seven years. At this point, Labradoodles still tend to be active and healthy dogs, but they do start to slow down a bit. It is also at this time that their joints might start to become stiff, and they can begin to develop more serious joint problems. You can try and alleviate this by feeding them supplements to support their joints. You can read more about joint supplements here. Senior When your Labradoodle hits nine or 10 years, they are truly senior and they will probably start to need a bit of extra care and attention. Joint pain is a common problem for Labradoodles, so you may need to make some adjustments to your home to accommodate them. Labradoodles also have a tendency to lose their eyesight in later years, and to feel the cold more intensely. Their appetite is also likely to change as this time, as is their metabolism. So again, watch their weight and what they are eating to maintain them at a healthy weight. This is especially important if they are suffering with joint issues, as excess weight will just make mobility even more challenging. Labradoodles are inclined toward a variety of health conditions, inherited from both their Labrador and poodle parents. The main Labradoodle health conditions to be aware of are: Allergies Labradoodles often develop food allergies, usually in their early years before they reach two years of age. This can often be caused by eating too much of certain foods in these formative months. But Labradoodles can also develop allergies in later life, and you might find that at age eight they are suddenly reacting to something that they have eaten their entire life. Labradoodles usually show an allergic reaction with skin itchiness and an upset stomach. If you notice these signs, visit your vet to try to identify what might be causing the problem. Ear Infections Labradoodles have floppy ears that cover the ear tracts. This means they are generally moist, dark spaces, which means breeding grounds for infections. This is also a common problem for Labradors but can be worse for Labradoodles because the curly hair in their ears can also trap moisture and foreign bodies. If they seem to have itchy ears, or if you notice smells coming from their ears, this is a sign that something is not quite right. This will mean a trip to the vet to determine the type of ear infection and the best treatment. Regular ear cleaning, especially after sleeping or bathing, is the best way to reduce the prevalence of ear infections in Labradoodles. Epilepsy Epilepsy is a neurological condition, of which one of the main symptoms is seizures. Labradoodles are quite prone to this condition. There is no cure, and treatment depends on the severity of the seizures and how often they occur. If your dog rarely has seizures, your vet will probably avoid medication, as it is not worth the risk. You may need to do some things to make your home safer for your dog, making it less likely that they will accidentally hurt themselves in the event of a seizure. Joint Issues Another issue inherited from their Labrador parents, Labradoodles often develop joint issues, especially in the hips, but it can be anywhere. Over time, what was an uncomfortable twinge can develop into serious pain, arthritis, and even lameness. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Sometimes joint supplements can be enough to keep your dog comfortable, while in other cases they might need serious pain medication. Progressive Retinal Atrophy This is a condition where a portion of the eye degenerates, eventually leading to blindness. This is quite common in Labradoodles and will usually affect both eyes, resulting in complete blindness. However, it is known to occasionally occur in puppies as well. There is no known treatment, though it is thought that a diet high in antioxidants may be able to help slow the progression of the condition. Signs of the disease include excessive bleeding and bruising where the dog is injured, but also spontaneos bleeds, for example nosebleeds, or blood in their urine or stool. This poses a risk to your Labradoodle throughout their lives, as they may need to avoid certain medications that can further thin the blood, as well as activities where they are at risk of getting injured. If they need surgery for some reason, such as when they are neutered, they will probably also require a platelet transfusion before the surgery. The Verdict When you decide to bring a Labradoodle puppy in your life, you are committing to love and care for that dog for about 12 to 14 years, which is the average lifespan of this crossbreed. During that time, they will pass through a number of different life stages, from being adorable puppies, naughty adolescents appropriately called the terrible twos , intelligent adults, and vulnerable seniors. But throughout all these life stages, a Labradoodle should give you a great deal of love and fulfilment. Do you have a Labradoodle? What is your experience living with these wonderful dogs? Share your thoughts in the comments section below or via our social media. Related Article. Follow this labradoodle puppy care guide to help with the transition. A few things you might want to have with you when you pick up your puppy are a bottle of water, some baby wipes, and a towel or a blanket. If you are meeting your puppy at the airport, your puppy may be thirsty from the trip. We put a frozen dish of water in the crate, but it is usually long gone by the time your puppy arrives. The wipes are needed in case the puppy may have soiled the crate. The towel or blanket also, in case the puppy has soiled the crate, is for you to hold your puppy or to put in the crate. Using a Leash to Bond with Your Puppy When your puppy first arrives to your home, we suggest you keep the puppy on a leash for the first couple of days. Do your best to have the primary caregiver be the main person handling the leash. We also suggest you not have outside visitors to the home for the first couple of days. Give your puppy some time to adjust to her new family first before she meets your world. Your puppy is going to be a little confused at her new surroundings. From the beginning your puppy needs to learn that she is at the bottom, below even the youngest child. She needs to learn who her main leaders are and what the boundaries are in her new home. Labradoodles are people loving dogs! Your puppy will want to bond. Your puppy is smart and will quickly learn that the person attached at the other end of the leash is important to her. Your Labradoodle will look to you for example and comfort. She will learn that you are her source of not only example and comfort, but also food! Using the leash these first few days will help your new puppy learn who to trust and who to please. Other Advantages of Leash Training Your New Puppy Even if you are not holding onto the leash, you can control where she goes easily by stepping on the dragging leash. This is much more comfortable to a dog than having you lunge over her to get her. Keeping her on a leash also allows you to monitor where your puppy is in the house, and help her learn which rooms you would like her to be in and where she is not allowed. Lastly, having her on a leash helps her adjust to the idea of a leash so that she is ready to be trained to heel on a leash. A crate can be a useful and comforting tool or it can be an overused source of misery for your puppy. We suggest using a crate for very short periods of time during the day and for your puppy to sleep in at night. During the day there will come short periods of time where you have a task to do that requires your full attention. While your puppy is still in the house training stage, the crate can be very valuable to you. By putting your puppy in the crate for short amounts of time during the day, say an hour, maybe two, you can accomplish what you must do and also help puppy control her bladder. As soon as you let her out, immediately take her outdoors to relieve herself. Using the crate this way will encourage her to only go to the bathroom where it is appropriate to go. If your puppy is not crate trained already, you will have to work up to the hour or two hour mark. By the time your puppy arrives, she should be able to sleep around 7 hours through the night in a crate. Of course all puppies are individuals and so the time can vary. Your Golden Xpress Labradoodle puppy is used to being in a crate, but she is also used to smelling and hearing her siblings nearby. She may have adjustments to make in her new home because of this. Another factor in labradoodle puppy care is that their little tummies often get upset over the first couple of weeks in their new homes. To help her adjust to your home atmosphere and sleeping during the night, keep her crate in your bedroom at night. Keeping your hand down by the wire door is comforting to her. Responding to her cries with talking or tapping encourages your puppy to cry and whine more. Tapping on the crate lightly is ok, but not in response to her noise making. Another thing to think about with regard to labradoodle puppy care is if your puppy starts to wet her crate, you need to first check and see if her crate is too big. Generally, dogs do not relieve themselves in their sleeping places. If so, either use a smaller crate or block part off with a box. If her crate seems the right size, you may need to take out anything like blankets or soft materials. When your puppy has successfully kept her crate dry for a couple of weeks, try putting the bedding back in. Feeding Your Puppy At first, your puppy will need to be fed 3 times a day. Once they have adjusted, offer food to them all day so they learn not to gorge at meal time, and always make sure your puppy has clean, fresh water available to her. Feed your puppy in a quiet place, free from distractions. Put a good amount of food in her bowl and let her eat as much as she would like. After about 20 minutes or so, remove the food. Repeat this morning, mid-day and evening. It helps keep teeth and gums in better shape than wet food does. DO NOT feed your puppy people food. Your food does not provide the nutrition that your puppy needs. She will choose to have the people food and not eat her own. Feed your dog people food and you will have one unhealthy puppy. Just make sure you choose high quality dog treats with some nutrition. At Golden Xpress Labradoodles we give our dogs and puppies different kinds of treats: dog biscuits, dog turkey or chicken jerky. The jerky is good for a training aid around the house — to teach the puppy to come or to sit, or down. They are very intelligent and very willing to learn, and this makes them easier to train. Just remember that they are puppies so be patient. Lots of Loves Above all labradoodle puppy care requires lots of love. Make sure you pet her and hold her so she knows she belongs to your family. Labradoodles are loyal, loving dogs — give your puppy your love and she will return it tenfold. It takes traits from both breeds, and new puppy owners will quickly see this combination was chosen intentionally. The Labrador retriever is an intelligent, loyal breed with an excellent temperament for nearly any family or living situation. Unfortunately, these dogs also shed a lot, which can be a hassle. It also makes a Labrador a poor choice for public social situations, such as outdoor dining at dog-friendly patios. Instead, the coat traps dirt, allergens, loose hair and other debris inside it. This means less shedding but also means daily brushing is required. The poodle is also an intelligent breed that makes a perfect addition to most homes since it was bred to be a companion animal. Any puppy is a lifelong commitment. Understanding what to expect at every life stage will help you prepare to give your cute little puppy a long, prosperous, happy life. A normal-sized labradoodle will live an average of 12 to 14 years. Smaller labradoodles resulting from a miniature or toy poodle crossbreed will generally live a little longer. However, you must remember that this lifespan is only an average. There are plenty of labradoodles who live into their late teens. A healthy diet, regular exercise and periodic vet visits are crucial to your labradoodle puppy living a long, healthy life. These main life stages include puppyhood, adolescence, adulthood, middle-aged and senior. Each life stage is discussed in more detail below. Puppyhood If you adopt a labradoodle puppy, this will be the first stage you get to witness. A labradoodle puppy will remain in this life stage from birth until five or six months. Birth to 7 Weeks From birth until about seven weeks of age, labradoodle puppies stay close to their mother. They spend all their time eating, sleeping, growing and cuddling with their littermates. As they get closer to seven weeks of age, they may begin exploring their world a little. Around seven weeks of age, a labradoodle puppy will start becoming more interested in people. This is also when it begins forming bonds with you and other humans in the home or family. These adorable puppies will become more playful and curious at about eight weeks old. Instead, you want to create only positive experiences during this time to ensure it grows into a secure young adult dog. This is the perfect time to start positive training techniques. Teaching your labradoodle puppy about action and reward now will benefit its lifelong training. During this stage of puppy development, socialization is crucial. Now is the perfect time to take it to new places, introduce it to new people and provide it with new experiences. The most important part of this stage of puppy development is that your pup becomes a free and independent thinker. With its curiosity at an all-time high, this is the perfect time to bring your new companion everywhere. Socialization and bonding are other vital aspects of this stage of puppy development. Pet owners will find their puppy wants to be with them all the time and may become mildly anxious when separated from them. Most of its time will be spent eating, sleeping or getting into trouble. Your growing canine should have lost its baby teeth, have all its adult teeth and be out of the biting stage it may have had during puppyhood. Thanks to the Labrador genes, your labradoodle will always love to chew. You can stop destructive chewing behaviors by providing a chew toy or two or 20 to keep it occupied. It may become territorial, but regular socialization can help ease these issues. Your labradoodle will also begin showing quite a bit of strength, so continuing its training during this time is crucial. Acting out, wandering and even behaving aggressively are all normal during this time. Adulthood For a labradoodle, adulthood starts somewhere between two or three years of age and lasts until around its seventh birthday. During adulthood, labradoodles are at their prime. Their adult coat will grow in, which may be thicker or denser than their puppy coat. This breed is very intelligent and easy to train, so if you want to keep teaching it new tricks, you can. Weight Management Your labradoodle will reach its adult size between two and three years old. They can tell you if your dog is a normal size or needs diet and exercise. Middle-Aged Your doodle puppy will turn middle-aged around seven years old. This life stage is relatively brief and only lasts until the dog turns nine or .During middle age, most dogs are still active and overall healthy. It may exercise less and sleep a little more as it transitions between adulthood and its golden years. A middle-aged dog may begin to develop some health problems, especially as it gets closer to its senior years. The primary issues of concern are obesity, joints and teeth. The teeth and joints will become especially vulnerable during this stage, so you must take your dog for regular teeth cleaning and wellness visits. In addition, your vet may recommend supplements to protect the joints. Extra weight will also place unnecessary additional stress on the joints and heart of your dog. Senior Your dog will officially be considered a senior from around nine to 10 years of age until the end of its life. During their golden years, your labradoodle will require extra care and attention. Health problems are most likely to occur during these years, and your vet may suggest two annual well visits instead of only one. After 10 years of age, your dog will likely encounter issues staying warm. You might consider a heating blanket in their bed, keeping the house slightly warmer during winter or providing extra blankets to snuggle under. Your dog may also have problems with its eyesight. The most common issue for senior labradoodles is their joints, which tend to ache as they get older. In addition, they may have mobility problems caused by sore and stiff joints. For example, consider a ramp to help it get into the car or up your porch steps. Developing one or more health problems could mean a shorter lifespan for your labradoodle. A few of the most common health problems affecting labradoodle puppies or adults include: Allergies usually to food Ear infections which can lead to hearing loss after repeat infections Epilepsy. Key milestones to look out for include teething, going for their first walk, completing potty training, and being ready to start obedience training. Your Labradoodle Puppy Your new Labradoodle puppy may be an adorable little bundle of fur now. But Labradoodle puppies, like all puppies, grow up fast! When will your Doodle puppy reach its full adult size? What about behavioral milestones, such socializing with other dogs, fetching toys, or responding to commands? New puppy owners often have lots of questions about puppy growth and development. Before your puppy even comes home with you, it will have already completed some important early phases of development. The time spent in the womb is called the gestation period. The average gestation period for Labradoodles is around 63 days, or 9 weeks. If your puppy came to you from a breeder, chances are it spent the first couple of months of life with mom and littermates, before coming to you. What went on during those first few weeks? The earliest stages of puppy development are important to the good health and behavior of a dog over its whole lifetime. Neonatal Weeks Newborn puppies are born deaf, blind, and unable to stand or walk. In the first days of life, your puppy will seek warmth, nutrition, and care from the mother. Your puppy will want to be close to mom and is totally dependent on her care and attention. Separation from mom at this stage will cause your puppy distress as it is still too soon to be away from the mother. Your puppy will become more aware of its environment and begin to explore. Interaction with mom will expand to include play, and your puppy will also play with its littermates. After socializing with its canine family, your puppy will also begin socializing with humans. During this time, a puppy can be fearful of new experiences, so introduction to people and animals should be done carefully. Your puppy will also start weaning onto solid food from 3 weeks onwards, and by 8 weeks old, your puppy is old enough to come home and join their forever family. Late Socialization 12 Weeks-6 Months Some Labradoodle breeders prefer to wait until this development stage before giving puppies to their new owners. This is also a time to encourage good behaviors and discourage bad behaviors like biting and aggression. Potty and crate training are key during this time. Puppy Growth Milestones Lots of physical changes happen to a young puppy in the first few months of life. Here are a few important changes that your Labradoodle puppy will experience after coming home with you. Teeth A puppy grows 28 baby teeth also called deciduous teeth that will fall out and then be replaced by 42 permanent teeth. They may begin to fall out while your puppy is still with the breeder, or once they are home with you, at around 12 weeks of age. Like most dogs, Labradoodle puppies like to chew during the teething process. They also chew to explore the world around them. Provide your puppy with a variety of safe chew toys and discourage biting during play. While your puppy will probably continue to enjoy chewing, most excessive chewing behavior will go away by months of age. And is neutering necessary? There is some evidence that there are health issues associated with neutering. Keeping a male or female dog intact is not a straightforward decision. Especially for a female dog that will come i nto heat every six months or so once she is mature, unless she is spayed. Veterinarians take several factors into consideration when advising on the best age to spay or neuter puppies, including the breed, size, and overall health of each individual animal. Recent research shows that early spaying and neutering before 6 months of age can increase the risk of joint disorders like hip and elbow dysplasia associated with neutering, in larger dog breeds, including the Labrador Retriever. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about the best plan of action for your individual puppy. Getting Ready To Go Outside Taking your puppy out for their first walk is an exciting and proud moment for many puppy parents. The exact timing of this will depend upon what age they receive their first shots. When is a Labradoodle Puppy Fully Grown? When will your Labradoodle puppy reach adult size? There are three sizes of Labradoodle: standard, medium, and miniature. A full-grown Labradoodle can weigh anywhere from 20 to 70 pounds and stand between 14 and 24 inches at the shoulder, depending on its size category. Many Labradoodle owners report that their puppies reach their adult height at around one year of age, but they will continue to fill out and gain weight for several months beyond that, up to age two. A high-quality diet, plenty of exercise, and good training and socialization in the first year of life can ensure that your Labradoodle puppy develops into a healthy and happy dog. During this time they grow physically, mature emotionally, and learn lots of new skills. For some stages of puppy development, such as socialization, timing is critical. What milestones are they meeting at the moment? Let us know in the comments box down below! Accessed February .They venture into the surrounding environment. Puppies removed too early tend to be nervous, tend to bark inappropriately, tend to bite simply because these lessons a mother and littermates usually provides were missed. Training problems and long-term behavior problems can often be attributed to a puppy removed from the litter much too soon. Beginning at 3 weeks of age, what is going on at this stage of puppy devleopment: The first lessons learned are dog specific behavioral patterns They will learn various postures meanings and their affects to their mother and littermates. They will learn how to bite and what it is like to be bitten. They will learn what barking and other vocalizations mean and their uses. They will learn how to establish social relationships with other dogs. Beginning at 5 weeks of age, what is going on at this stage of puppy development: Vocalization and tempered activities dog manners usually are learned at approximately 5 weeks of age. They will learn how to be submissive to the leader of the pack. They will learn and refine additional postures, vocalizations, and acceptable dog interaction behaviors. With a few very clear signals and repetitions, the young puppy will learn quickly. At that point, a mothers glare or low growl is all that is needed to keep a young pup in line. Littermates also learn clear signals of communication to each other. It is during this time, that your dog needs to have positive experiences. They need to be introduced to new things and begin the groundwork to a happy, well-adjusted dog. Beginning at 7 weeks of age, what is going on at this stage of puppy development: Short attention spans. Things learned are permanent and will be resistant to change. Puppy will be eager to learn. What he does and learns now, he will do as an adult. Puppy will be transitioning his education from his mother to his human environment. Beginning at 8 weeks and ending at approximately 11 weeks of age, what is going on: Any traumatic, painful or frightening experiences can have a lasting impact. What You Can Do: Gradually introduce your puppy to new things, environments and people. Do not let others push your puppy or be forceful with them. Provide a secure comforting demeanor. Teach the puppy you are there to protect and lead. He has been watching you and the family very closely. He is picking up on human behaviors and reactions. He is learning the pecking order of the pack. As he observes and learns, he will then attempt to figure out where exactly he stands in the pack order and to also see if moving up in the pack will work. How could such a cute little pup be such a pistol? What is going on at this stage of puppy development: Puppy will begin to question authority. Puppy will attempt to move himself up in the pack order. Puppy will try to dominate. Puppy will grab leashes Puppy will try to determine what activities are going to be done and when. Puppy may growl. Puppy may put his mouth on you. Puppy can often become over excited. What you can do: Learn how your actions and body language communicate to your dog. Do not play aggressive games during this phase. Tug or wrestling If puppy becomes over excited, growls or mouths you, you stop all activity. Be very aware of how the puppy interacts with children — do not leave children unattended with the puppy. Enroll in a puppy kindergarten class to redirect some of the energy. He has been aware of where you are and would stay pretty close. During this period that same cute little puppy will decide that he is ready to go solo and take off running quicker than lightening. During this time, teaching the puppy that he must stay close by or come when called is critical. The failure to do this will result in a dog that will not be reliable to come or to stay close by as an adult and very well could lead the dog into a life or death situation. What is going on at this stage of puppy development: The puppy will become more independent. A puppy that previously would never go very far, will venture off. The Puppy will ignore commands to stay close or come. How you handle refusal to come or stay will affect future reliability off leash. Puppy will be clever in attempts to run around loose. Never allow dog loose in an unconfined area. Yes this is redundant to the above, so it must be pretty important for us to say it twice. Being off leash outside of a confined area is reserved for who have been well trained. Enroll in a training class that utilizes positive training techniques. Make coming a very positive experience. Oh… and never allow your puppy to be off leash in an unconfined area. This often is a time when many families start to worry that maybe they made a bad decision in getting a dog. Remember: you get what you put into it. You take the time right now to teach good habits, you will have the dog you always dreamed of for many years. This work will payoff. What is going on at this stage of puppy development: The puppy will become a free and independent thinker. The puppy will continue to review the pack order. The puppy will be very energetic. The puppy will be exuberant and enthusiastic. They turn into clowns with teeth. They will delight in learning new and fun things. What you can do: Appreciate the humor of it all. Have you read the book The Dog Listener yet? It will help. Understand that despite the behaviors it is your time to continue to train and reinforce the things you do want him to do. Reaffirm the family pack order. Be realistic about expectations still very much a puppy in a big boy body Channel all that energy into positive learning experiences. Continue with training classes; explore options for additional training opportunities. This is normal, but you must help your dog figure out how to deal with his fears or concerns. It will also reduce the chances that the things he fears will not be permanently imprinted for life. What is going on at this stage of puppy development: The puppy that was so confident will suddenly become reluctant to new things. This period can be subtle. This period can come and go several times over this entire period. It may appear to be unprovoked or unrelated to any specific occurrence. Puppy can become frustrating to owners. You may notice this behavior more in males. What you can do: Avoid extremes in your response no anger or forcing or over comforting Be patient and understanding. We aware of surrounding and potential triggers. Work on desensitizing him with gradual introductions with rewards. Praise with grand rewards for his attempts. Your dog will take his clues from you, if you act frightened or concerned he will too. He will begin to fill out a bit and develop more muscle tone. But, mentally, the dog is still working out some last details of his life and what it means to him. He IS a member of a pack and now begins to find that his turf is worthy of monitoring and protecting. You do not want you dog to take over these responsibilities because in no time you too will be under the rule of the King Dog. Which can lead to aggressive behaviors, protective to the point of creating fear or actually harming someone or another animal as he protects. This is bad news, and often a reason a dog is taken out of the home or destroyed. What is going on: The dog may become more turf protective. Strangers may be greeted with barking. Barking at noises, birds, cars, butterflies, pretty much everything he believe worthy of attention. Playing with other dogs may escalate to fighting. Same sex confrontations of other dogs can occur. Once again, checking the pack order to see if he can move up. What you can do: Reinforce how to greet strangers into your home. Teach your dog to ignore dogs he cannot be nice to. Practice or reinforce dog manners utilizing no threatening dogs Learn to read your dog and other dogs. Circling, walking on toes, stiff tail wags, tense facial expressions — are the signs of aggressive behaviors Rally your family to review that the pack order is clear and very one is consistent with training and corrections. Reward him for good behaviors. Give that dog another job, therapy work, obedience classes, agility. Republished with permission from International Doodle Owners Group. Save Save Ready for your puppy?