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Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. The Golden is slow to mature and retains the silly, playful personality of a puppy until three to four years of age, which can be both delightful and annoying. Many keep their puppyish traits into old age. Originally bred for the physically demanding job of retrieving ducks and other fowl for hunters, the Golden needs daily exercise : a walk or jog, free time in the yard, a run at the beach or lake Goldens love water , or a game of fetch. And like other intelligent breeds who were bred to work, they need to have a job to do, such as retrieving the paper, waking up family members, or competing in dog sports. A tired Golden is a well-behaved Golden. As well as giving your Golden Retriever physical and mental exercise , you should also be prepared to include him in your family activities. Golden Retriever Highlights Golden Retrievers shed a lot, especially during spring and fall. Brushing their coat daily helps remove loose hair, preventing it from spreading on your clothes and around your home. Living with a Golden means embracing their shedding. Golden Retrievers are active and require minutes of vigorous exercise every day. They enjoy obedience training, agility classes, and other dog activities that provide both physical and mental stimulation. While they are gentle and reliable around children, Golden Retrievers are large and exuberant, which might accidentally knock over small kids. Goldens have hearty appetites and can become overweight if overfed. Manage treats, measure their daily food portions, and feed them regular meals instead of leaving food out all day. Due to their popularity, some breeders prioritize profit over the well-being of the dogs. To ensure a healthy pup, avoid irresponsible breeders, puppy mills, or pet stores. Look for reputable breeders who test their breeding dogs for genetic diseases and focus on good temperaments. Golden Retriever History For many years, there was a legend that Golden Retrievers were descended from Russian sheepdogs bought from a circus. In fact, the breed was developed in Scotland, at the highland estate of Sir Dudley Majoribanks, later known as Lord Tweedmouth. Tweedmouth, like many gentry of his day, bred animals of all kinds, trying to perfect different breeds. He also wanted the dog to be loyal and even-tempered in the home. Tweedmouth kept mostly the yellow puppies to continue his breeding program, and gave others away to friends and relatives. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in .Today, the Golden Retriever is the second most popular breed in the U. Golden Retriever Size Males are 23 to 24 inches tall and weigh 65 to 75 pounds. Females are generally .Golden Retrievers usually reach their full height by one year of age, and their mature weight by two. Golden Retriever Personality A sweet, calm nature is the hallmark of the breed. The Golden was bred to work with people, and is eager to please his owner. Though hard-wired with a good disposition, like all dogs the Golden must be well-raised and well-trained to make the most of his heritage. Socialization helps ensure that your Golden puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia: This is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem or medication to control the pain. Cataracts: As in humans, canine cataracts are characterized by cloudy spots on the eye lens that can grow over time. Cataracts can usually be surgically removed with good results. Early in the disease, dogs become night-blind. As the disease progresses, they lose their daytime vision as well. Many dogs adapt to limited or complete vision loss very well, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis: This heart problem is caused by a narrow connection between the left ventricle out-flow and the aorta. It can cause fainting and even sudden death. Your vet can detect it and prescribe the proper treatment. Osteochondrosis Dissecans OCD : This orthopedic condition, caused by improper growth of cartilage in the joints, usually occurs in the elbows, but it has been seen in the shoulders as well. It causes a painful stiffening of the joint, to the point that the dog is unable to bend his elbow. It can be detected in dogs as early as four to nine months of age. Allergies: Golden Retrievers can be allergic to a variety of substances, ranging from food to pollen. If your Golden is licking his paws or rubbing his face a great deal, have him checked by your vet. The main symptom is excessive bleeding after an injury or surgery. Other symptoms include nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or bleeding in the stomach or intestines. There is no cure, and a blood transfusion from the blood of normal dogs is currently the only treatment. Research is underway for new treatments, including medication. A vet can test your dog for the condition. Dogs with this condition should not be bred. Bloat occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid himself of the excess air in his stomach, and blood flow to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure drops and the dog goes into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die. Suspect bloat if your dog has a distended abdomen, is drooling excessively, and retching without throwing up. He also may be restless, depressed, lethargic, and weak with a rapid heart rate. If you notice these symptoms, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Epilepsy : Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes periodic seizures and convulsions. Your vet will need to know how severe the seizures are and how often they occur to determine what medication to prescribe, if any. Hemangiosarcoma : This is a very dangerous form of cancer that originates in the lining of blood vessels and spleen. It most commonly occurs in middle-age and elderly dogs. Golden Retriever Care Golden Retrievers are built for action and love outdoor romps. If you like to hike or jog, your Golden will be happy to join you. Slacking on the activity, however, could lead to behavior problems. These dogs grow very rapidly between the age of four and seven months, making them susceptible to bone disorders. Normal play on grass is fine, and so are puppy agility classes. Golden Retriever Feeding Recommended daily amount: 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Golden in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. They do well on a high-quality, low-calorie diet that keeps them from growing too fast. For more on feeding your Golden, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Some coats are wavy, some are straight. The fur feathers on the back of the front legs and underbody, with heavier feathering on the chest, back of the thighs, and tail. Golden Retrievers come in all shades of gold, from light to dark gold. Golden Retrievers shed moderately in the winter and summer, and heavily in the spring and fall. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangling, and once a week is the bare minimum. Your Golden will also need a bath at least once a month, often more frequently, to keep him looking and smelling clean. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Short, neatly trimmed nails keep the feet in good condition. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding — and your dog may not cooperate the next time he sees the nail clippers come out. Fold-over ears create a warm, dark environment for bacteria or fungus to grow in, and breeds that have them — such as the Golden — are prone to ear infections. His ears should be checked weekly for redness or a bad odor, which can indicate an infection. Check them every time he gets wet, too. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. He enjoys the companionship of other dogs , and with proper introductions and training, can be trusted with cats, rabbits, and other animals. Golden Retriever Rescue Groups Goldens are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Goldens in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. Golden Retriever Club of America, Inc. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. If you would like to have the puppy held for you, make a deposit online. You are certainly welcome to select your puppy this way without a deposit, but please note that availability may change on a daily basis. If you come and see the puppy, make your purchase and take the puppy home if the puppy is 8 weeks old or older. Skip to 6, unless you need to arrange travel for your pup. Connect with us and we will get the right information to deliver the puppy to you and set up the exact date and time. Enjoy the new puppy that you have adopted into your family. If you have any questions, please reach out to the breeder for help! How much is a Golden Retriever puppy, and why do the prices on the website vary? The price depends on the credentials of the parents and the number of puppies available at the time. This allows you to set up an appointment that fits both your schedule and that of our breeders. Our golden retriever puppies are all raised by families in the Northeast Ohio area, conveniently located about an hour and a half from both Cleveland and Columbus. This makes it easy to come visit our puppies and spend time playing with them in a home environment. How can I get puppy travel arranged if I am out of state? A little-known fact about golden retriever puppies is that they actually do very well with travel. Check out our puppy travel page here to find out more about how we go the extra mile. How do you raise your dogs? When buying a golden retriever puppy, the people who bred and raised them can have a big impact on the health and sociability of the dog! Because of this, we are dedicated to choosing caring, dedicated golden retriever breeders in Ohio who will get your pup started on the right track. Our small network of breeders in Ohio all are dedicated to the same principles. This starts by providing carefully-planned breedings to ensure the best pedigree for our pups. They raise healthy, socialized pups that can make a smooth transition to a new home. Most of our breeders actually have young children at home who help raise the puppies and play with them so they can become socially adjusted. How do I leave a review of my Golden Retriever experience? Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Retriever has been an AKC-recognized breed since and was commonly used as a gun dog and for retrieving small game such as waterfowl, and for companionship. The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish Highlands. The first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Majoribanks, is credited with developing the breed and keeping detailed records to create the ideal gun dog for the terrain. Great discipline and a gentle spirit make the Golden Retriever a perfect retrieval breed since the goal of this task is to bring the trophy back as undamaged as possible. Golden Retrievers first appeared in dog shows in at a British dog show. They also started appearing in the United States around the same time as they were brought across the Canadian border. They gained popularity with sport hunters and in general. Their popularity really took off in the s and they are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds. If you are not the sporting type, bringing a Golden Retriever into your family as a pet is just as rewarding because they are one of the most loyal and jovial breeds out there. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are the epitome of friendly and make fantastic family dogs. Golden Retrievers are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. They tend to be good with kids, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Goldens love attention and they bond closely with their families. They are affectionate with them, and also just about everyone else. Although they do tend to get along with everyone, they love being around their favorite humans the most. They will bark to alert you and can end up barking a lot if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. They can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. These dogs do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they are not at all happy about being left alone for long periods of time. Although super-friendly and attention-loving, Goldens can also be sensitive to their surroundings; make sure they feel included, but have a quiet place to go if things get too noisy or overwhelming. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Golden Retriever include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, elbow dysplasia , and hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Goldens are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are highly trainable dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. These traits make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. It also helps them excel at obedience competitions. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered the command, move on to something more advanced or another activity. You can also enroll in puppy training classes for some variety in training and also some socialization. Golden Retrievers have a long double coat that will shed a little year-round and will be heavier twice a year as the seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding along with a bath as needed is usually enough for at-home care. You will want to go to the dog groomer for a professional trim a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. Golden Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. But, they are high-energy dogs that will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Much like the Labrador , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They tend to start winding down a little around the age of 3 and settle into your lifestyle, but they will still be high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity. Goldens are known for being versatile and athletic dogs. They tend to love swimming. Once they are done growing and the vet clears them for higher-impact activities, you can try other things too. They are one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. You can also teach them how to play frisbee or play fetch. Training for dog sports is another good option. In addition to obedience, Golden Retrievers are well suited for agility, dock diving , rally, flyball, tracking, and more. Fully-grown Golden Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Golden Retrievers generally live for years on average. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and gentle disposition, Golden Retrievers are versatile working dogs. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Goldens can be found working as emotional support dogs, certified therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, military dogs, police dogs, animal actors, and more. Featured Golden Retriever Article.

She is a loving, affectionate dog. She loves attention and is house broken. Location: Clinton, MD .American Bulldog puppies are ready to go!!!! Looking for their forever home, and a well welcome as a new addition to the family.American bulldog puppies are 5weeks old. We have all males only. He is 16 weeks with first set of shots. Male available 4 3x Black with White, 1x Brown ,1 of the boy been born with tail which make him special Female available 2 1x same colour as mother beautiful Champain with maybe blue eyes, 1x dark silver maybe blue eyes can't notice now really View Detail Bulldog puppies for sale asap six beautiful American bulldog puppies ready for home 7wks old first come first serve View Detail American Bulldog Lab Mix Puppy Female puppy for rehoming. She will come with records and starter supplies. He is a bulldog mix with lav. He got all his vaccines. Very friendly and loves to play. Text me for more info xxx-xxx-xxxx. Girl 6 months love able. House broken wit a big little heart. Can put hands in dog bowl. They have been dewormed. Female, 4 years. Had some separation anxiety. Would do better being the singer dog. Preferably no kids. She is sweet and affectionate. Lives with two other dogs right now and gets anxious when all the dogs are around. When she is by herself she is calm. She is not destructive, she loves tug-of-war. She is house broke. Our family will be moving soon and can not take 3 dogs. View Detail American bulldog I have a2 year old male good tempered bulldog. His name is buddy love and he's house broken he believes that he's a lap dog so if interested contact me I'm in suitland md and he's available now may make a great gitf for the kids during the holiday season. View Detail Bully puppy for sale to good home Calm, quiet, well mannered. Potty trained, crate trained. Not neutered. Not to mention, his shots are all up to date. I will provide food, leash , collar, doggie treats, dog bowls, and two cute little outfits for no extra money; he has a cage that is brand new for an extra 60 dollars. We have developed a breeding program to produce all around sound American Bulldogs. Our American Bulldogs are show quality for working or as a great family pet. Our dogs are family raised and great with children. Bull Pulls American Bulldogs are consistent in type and health. He has lots of energy and needs lots of attention. He can be a bit reserved around some new people but will be fine with them quickly after getting to sniff around a bit and treats given by strangers. Obie does have some leash aggressive towards some of the other big dogs in my neighborhood. He goes to day care once or twice a week and he is loved by all the staff there. He gets along with the other dogs. He loves to run around and go on long walks. He loves being outside, long walks, dog parks, or just laying out on the patio in the evening. He will try to chase squirrels, cats, or the fox that roams around but he leaves the geese and ducks alone. He has never been around children, so I am unsure how he would react around them; but he is a big boy and gets excited and jumpy at times. He loves going on car rides, he rides with me on the 8 hour drive to visit my family in Kentucky where he is very attached to my mom and sister. They have a pitty mix that he plays very well with. He also loves to pull when walking! Please reach out directly to the owner Shawn Martin for more information. Shawn Martin.

Lifespan Sociability Deciding on the right breed of dog to add to your home is no easy task. This is doubly true for designer dogs like the Double Doodle, as they possess not only the qualities of each breed that contributed to their genetic heritage, but also new qualities unique to their own breed. The Golden Retriever was originally bred in Scotland, where wildfowl hunting was a popular sport among the well-to-do. Trained to retrieve birds after they had been shot out of the sky, this breed had to be capable of retrieving both on land and in the water. Known for being kind, friendly, and confident, the Golden Retriever has been a companion to many families since the time of its inception. Poodles, available in Standard, Miniature, or Toy sizes, are ranked as the second most intelligent dog breed in the world behind the Border Collie. A natural athlete, the Poodle takes well to training in dog sports from agility to herding to circus performance. Their sociable and energetic natures make them best suited for owners who have plenty of time to dedicate to their training. Combine those three breeds into one designer dog, and what do you get? A wonderfully friendly, confident, and energetic dog who is highly intelligent and imminently trainable. Double Doodles are a fine example of crossbreeding done right, wherein the resulting dog enjoys many health benefits and a naturally pleasant disposition. Originally, a designer dog was any produced from two purebred dogs. Goldendoodles were originally bred in by Monica Dickens, the great-granddaughter of this well-known writer. Double Doodles are loving and caring for adults, children, and other animals alike, but sometimes their long-limbed clumsiness can be the cause of unintended mishaps. Are These Dogs Good for Families? With fur that resembles a plush teddy bear, deep and loving eyes, and adorably floppy ears, kids of all ages are sure to love them. Because they are on the larger side of dog breeds, however, you should always keep an eye on them around smaller children to prevent accidental injuries. Plan on feeding them up to three cups of dry food per day, split into two to three meals. Plan on long daily walks, consistent training for new tricks, and more intense activities like agility training, fetch, or swimming. Because of their high exercise requirements, Double Doodles are not a great choice of pet for anyone living in an apartment. They pick up on new commands quickly but can also possess a rebellious streak that requires firm, gentle insistence on the training at hand. Many Double Doodles have been known to respond exceptionally well to treat-based training reinforcement, as they are highly food motivated. The Double Doodle is a hypoallergenic dog that barely sheds at all, even in the springtime when most other dogs will cover your couches in hair. A weekly brushing will keep their coats looking lustrous and bouncy, and an occasional visit to a professional dog groomer is recommended to keep their coats healthy and any errant hairs trimmed. Some conditions that occur rarely in Double Doodles include: Minor Conditions. Welcome to Lakeview Doodles of NY! We care about our dogs, so to get them off to the best possible start, our puppies are raised inside our non-smoking, loving home with our children. This enables them to become used to the sights and sounds of an active family household. We have the good fortune of living on the shores of Lake Ontario located in Upstate New York, where we enjoy invigorating breezes with ample room to romp and play! On our website, you will find information about, and photos of F1b and Multigen Goldendoodles and Double Doodles. We follow NYS guidelines and regulations. All of our breeding parents undergo extensive health testing. This includes not only full genetic testing for over diseases, but also both parents undergo and have passed all the tests for their hips, elbows, patellas, hearts, and their eyes are checked every other year by our ophthalmologist. We would be happy to provide you with copies of their testing. When available, we also offer personal delivery of your puppy, and their starter kits, in the states of New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Ohio and Vermont. We will not ship or fly a puppy alone, but will welcome you to fly to get them. It is also possible to fly your puppy to you accompanied by one of our family members. Usually patient with children and other pets Trainable Adaptable So a double doodle with ancestors from these breeds is likely to be the same again. Some areas in which Poodles differ from Labs and Goldens are: Friendliness towards other dogs. Labs and Goldens usually love other dogs, whereas Poodles are more likely to remain disinterested and aloof. Poodles are also more likely to be protective of their home, and bark at unfamiliar people who approach it. Some double doodle mix dogs may also inherit these traits. Training and exercising your Goldendoodle Labradoodle Goldendoodle Labradoodles are usually very responsive to training and easily motivated to take part in training games. All of their ancestral breeds were working dogs, so breeders selected only the most adept and trainable dogs as sires and dams for the next generation. Double doodles from working lines as opposed to show lines are particularly quick learners, but this is often coupled with a big appetite for mentally stimulating tasks like training games and puzzle toys. They are good companions for runners and cyclists, because they possess athleticism and stamina in spades. A miniature Goldendoodle Labradoodle mix needs a similar amount of exercise, but they might struggle to keep up with on long runs or bike rides. In which case a big yard, or daily access to hiking trails or a dog park will be a better match for their needs. We all want a healthy pet who will enjoy many uncomplicated years with us. The main health problems facing Golden Lab Poodle mix dogs are: Orthopedic conditions including hip and elbow dysplasia. This is particularly true in big Goldendoodle Labradoodle crosses. Eye problems including cataracts and a type of hereditary blindness called progressive retinal atrophy. Immune-mediated skin problems triggered by an allergic reaction to something in their diet or environment. Ear infections. Thyroid disease. Labradoodles and Goldendoodles being considered as stud dogs or dams should be health tested for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems at a minimum. Good breeders will already have proof of the results of these tests before they open a waiting list for puppies. Always ask to see copies, and walk away from breeders who make excuses for not performing them, or not sharing the results. Goldendoodle Labradoodle Life Expectancy The average life expectancy of all three breeds contributing this double doodle combo is 12 to 13 years. Doodles with long, non shedding coats need regular brushing to prevent tangles that tug painfully at the skin. Brushing also lifts out dirt and debris, and helps keep their fur clean. For easier maintenance, most people with long haired dogs book them in for regular salon visits, to have their coat washed and clipped to a manageable length by professionals. Shedding coats also need brushing to lift out dirt from walks. They are likely to shed moderately all year round, but twice a year they may shed heavily. Do Goldendoodle Labradoodles make good pets? Double doodle mixes like the Labradoodle Goldendoodle mix can be great pets in the right home. This mix is likely to be placid and tolerant around children as an adult, but bear in mind that bouncy puppies are a different kettle of fish altogether! Young children should always be supervised with dogs of all ages and sizes. A boisterous big Goldendoodle Labradoodle mix pup is especially likely to unintentionally hurt a small child. Your young dog will need lots of your attention for activities like training and playtime. This is great if you have older children and teenagers who can help out. But it can be overwhelming if you still have babies and toddlers. Goldendoodle Labradoodle puppies Poodle mixes of all types are a popular choice of puppy mills, who keep breeding females and their litters in terrible conditions. Puppies raised in these environments are more likely to have expensive long term health issues, and challenging behavioral problems. Our Puppy Search guide can help you navigate the process of choosing a good quality puppy, including recognizing which breeders to avoid , and knowing which ones you can trust. Including feeding , potty training , crate training , learning to be alone , and setting up the foundations of good basic obedience. If you are interested in a lovely Australian Labradoodle puppy this year, this is it! To reserve your new family member, find our puppy application here. I will text, call or email you to confirm that I received your application and chat for a short bit. I will likely have a question or two and you might also. If you would like to submit your deposit for a puppy online, you can do so here. All Deposits are non refundable. Please do not send a deposit without first sending us a puppy application. And until we have spoken. Her guardian home can no longer keep her. She is a standard Newfydoodle just a bit over a year old, so she has energy to spare. She is house broken and crate trained. She is good with small children and other dogs. Her hair has been kept short for ease of care but she can grow a lovely long soft and shaggy coat. Please call me if you would like to give this sweet girl a home and be part of our guardian program. We will also have one or female mini size doodle puppy that we are looking to place in an excellent guardian home. She will be about 20 pounds when grown and can go home on Sept .You can read more about out guardian program. Share this:. If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. As all Doodle variations and breeds are becoming more and more popular, Doodle breeders have also started to combine two different Doodle breeds, resulting in the most precious fluffy companion. But what is a Double Doodle? A Double Doodle is a combination of two already established Doodle breeds. Often the Labradoodle and Goldendoodle mix is referred to as the Double Doodle. However, there are many other Double Doodles out there! There are endless variations possible. What makes Double Doodles double the fun is that instead of combining two purebred dogs, the Double Doodle mix includes three different purebred dogs. Double Doodles Physical Appearance Color Double Doodles come in all different colors and color combinations, as the possibilities are almost endless. Of course, the determining factor will be the parent breed. Most common Double Doodle colors are brown, golden, cream, red, and black. Some Double Doodles are even becoming famous for their coat colors. For instance, Golden Mountain Doodles are extremely sought-after thanks to its tri-color coat. Similarly, Aussiedoodle Goldendoodle mix has become super popular thanks to its multi-colored merle coat. Naturally, the Double Doodle does not fall far behind. Like other hybrid breeds, Double Doodles can come in a variety of coat types. Some pups sport a curly-haired Poodle coat, whereas others inherit straighter hair. And some Double Doodles have a beautiful wavy combination coat. Usually, we can expect curly-haired Double Doodles to shed the least while straight coat Double Doodles might come with a shedding undercoat. For instance, when combining a Standard Goldendoodle and a Standard Labradoodle, we can expect the Double Doodle puppy to be larger-sized, similar to the parents. Likewise, if a Mini Goldendoodle and a Mini Labradoodle are crossed, the Double Doodle puppies will be smaller in size as well. As there are so many Doodle breeds and their variations that we can combine, their sizes can also greatly vary. Largest of them all, Standard Double Doodles, usually weigh over 50 pounds and they can have a height of up to 30 inches at the shoulder. Medium Double Doodles weigh anywhere between 30 and 55 pounds, whereas Mini Double Doodles weigh around 20 to 30 pounds. Are Double Doodles aggressive? How much do they like to cuddle? Like other Doodles, Double Doodles have inherited the Poodle intelligence and a kind nature. Overall, Double Doodles are just as loving and playful pups like any other Doodle mix. Depending on the other parent breeds in the mix, they might demonstrate slightly different personality traits. Some Double Doodles may be more active, some are more laid back pups. Goldendoodle-Labradoodle mix. Often referred to as the original Double Doodle. Golden Mountain Doodle a. Goldendoodle-Bernedoodle mix. Swiss Doodle a. Aussiedoodle-Bernedoodle mix. Australian Double Doodle, which refers to Australian Labradoodle mixes. Aussiedoodle-Goldendoodle mix. With Double Doodles, generations become even trickier. First-generation Doodles F1 have two purebred parents, second-generation Doodles have two first-generation Doodle parents, and so on. So, to create a Double Doodle, there have to be two different Doodles first. This means that Double Doodles are multi-generational Doodles, and they technically cannot be first-generation. Of course, the exact percentage of each parent breed in the mix depends on what generation of Doodles are used. To illustrate, an F1 or first-generation Goldendoodle has a mix of Golden Retriever and Poodle. How long do Double Doodles live? Double Doodles life expectancy usually ranges between 10 to 16 years. Like other Doodles, Double Doodles are at a risk of certain hereditary diseases that are carried by the purebred parents. As an Amazon Associate I earn a small payment from qualifying purchases but these are all items from my shopping history and I often show in stories. Follow the sign up process, I would suggest listing 20 pounds as the adult weight and check puppy for the age. I believe it will tell you your dog will eat 4 pounds per week. After you get your intro offer you can change the cadence, the default seems to be every 5 weeks. You can also change between organic and value. You can do the entire process on the phone or sign up online and then call them at .I buy poop bags from Amazon and typically get at once because it is so much cheaper than places like Mud Bay. Another potty training tip is that I recommend not letting them have access to too large of an area at a time. I would suggest a baby gate — I like these extra tall walk through gates because they just make life easier. Just an example, if you hang in your living room in the evenings then start by just letting your pup have access to the living room and not the entire house. Small is good, it is comforting and keeps puppy from going potty in their crate. What I like about this style is that they can see everything happening but if you that is too much stimulation and you need to you cover it I suggest something light like a sheet or pillow case, nothing heavy because they get hot. I also send my families home with a snuggle puppy which helps comfort them while they are in the crate and reminds them of snuggling wit their siblings. I know there are some knockoff brands on Amazon but check out the reviews, they seem to have issues with the battery operated heartbeat. For some brands an XS harness is for a 5 pound dog. If you get a puppy from me, I use a comb on my puppies to desensitize them and I also put an electric toothbrush on their feet to get them used to having their feet touched. Here are the tools that I use. My groomer recommended starting with a slicker brush as the first step to combing your dog. After you use the brush you can move to combing them out. I have about 4 of these combs and they are my favorite because you can get all the way to their skin and not just brush the ends of their hair. If there is a mat I need to cut through I have one of these de-matting combs. They are shipped for a dominant right hand but it was easy enough to switch — one side is very sharp so again be careful — watch your fingers butalso be careful combing out your dog with this item. I blow the coat completely dry and with one hand on the dryer and the other on the comb using the dryer makes the comb move through their coat so easily. You are going to go home with some toys but puppies will be teething so they are going to want to chew A LOT. I recommend you have a generous supply of toys! Squeaky toys, stuffed toys, hard toys, and chewy toys! This is important for your puppy, and will make life better for them and you! I do not recommend buying rawhide because I feel it is not a digestible, safe product for dogs but that is just my opinion and stores continue to sell — just do some research. Puppies need supervision with toys and they have a better experience if you actually play with them. They love puzzles and they come in different levels — 8 week old puppies can start with level 1. BEDS: Your puppy is usually going to want to chew up and destroy even their dog bed. The truth is they are absolutely fine sleeping on the hard floor, they do not require a soft bed to feel comfortable. A lot of times a dog bed can make your puppy feel hot. I use freeze dried raw dog food for treats. The product is a little higher price for me to feed multiple dogs as their meal but the love it for treats and the small size is perfect. Our favorite brands are Vital Essentials — I have purchased the mini nibs in duck, rabbit, salmon, beef as well as their minnows.

This means all our breeding dogs trace back to AKC registered purebred dogs or they have been DNA tested to ensure no other breeds are present in their ancestry. Each and every dog in our breeding program has been tested and certified clear of issues of the heart, eyes, hips, elbows, and patellas. Furthermore, every dog has a complete DNA panel completed to determine if they are carriers of any of the issues that plague our breed. Fox Creek Farm is the proud founder of this non-profit organization created to guide the development of the Goldendoodle and to track the lineage of every Goldendoodle. Their mission is to improve canine health and to ensure puppy buyers are working with reputable breeders that meet their requirements for endorsement. They concentrate on breeding practices, physical health of breeding dogs and their puppies, mental health of breeding dogs and puppies, environment, and buyer education and policies. All heart, eyes, hips, elbows, and patella certifications are completed by the OFA. Vets complete x-rays and physical exams and submit the results to the OFA for certification. Fox Creek Farm has these 5 certifications on every breeding dog in our program. They verify the identity of breeders and screen the information against a recognized puppy mill database. They provide resources to breeders to learn about health and nutrition, pregnancy and whelping, and puppy care. Puppies learn to climb objects, problem solve, and manding. We use methods to prevent aggression and we teach our puppies to sit on command by 8 weeks of age. Sign Up for our Newsletter First Name. 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 Bridgeport West Virginia 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.

How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. Less than 1 hour per day, e. Overfeeding and Underfeeding Underfeeding and overfeeding both carry significant health risks for your GSD. As a guide, your German Shepherd should have a defined waistline and you can feel her ribs. Obesity is costly, both in terms of veterinary bills and health. An overweight German Shepherd is at an increased risk of arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. German Shepherds love to exercise and keeping them in good body condition is part of maintaining their diet. But, puppies tire much more quickly and are still developing their joints. How often should I feed my adult German Shepherd? Full-grown German Shepherds do well on a twice-a-day feeding schedule. For most adult German Shepherds, feeding twice per day, around 10 to 12 hours apart is healthy. Regardless of the feeding schedule you choose, avoid allowing your German Shepherd to exercise vigorously after consuming a large meal for at least 1 — 2 hours. This is especially true if your dog eats its food rapidly. Giving your dog time to fully digest her meal will help minimize problems with bloat, intestinal obstruction, or other serious digestive disorders. What food do German Shepherds need? The German Shepherd Dog is an athletic powerhouse! The German Shepherd is an Olympic athlete at heart! They love to exercise, play, run, and generally stay in motion most of the time. Giving them the best food is essential to their natural drive. Due to its convenience and ease of feeding, dry kibble is the most common way to give a German Shepherd her dietary requirements. Common commercial foods are made with chicken, beef, lamb, or fish products and by-products, grains such as corn, wheat, rice, barley, or oats. They contain added vitamins and minerals to ensure that the final diet is balanced. Some owners prefer to mix dry kibble with wet food, make their own homemade food, and only serve a raw diet, or any combination they feel is the right fit for their dog and lifestyle. Any mixture of food you feed your GSD must meet their dietary requirements. Dog food sales in the United States are a huge business. German Shepherd owners must not only stay alert as wise consumers but also monitor the health of their beautiful breed, which is an indicator of the quality of food you feed them. Many German Shepherds can carry on for a long time on a substandard diet, but inadequate nutrition can lead to more than health problems. In fact, poor nutrition could cause your German Shepherd to develop: behavior problems susceptibility to disease and even shorten their lifespan! What are the nutritional requirements for German Shepherds? Nutrition gives your dog the fuel they need to power through her day. The six basic nutrients are water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. Good nutrition plays a large part in the appearance and vitality of your dog. The minimum dietary requirement has been established for many nutrients. Keep in mind, these are the minimum requirements, and not what will give your German Shepherd optimal health. Proteins The main nutritional requirement of German Shepherds is protein. Protein has several functions that keep your dog healthy. Proteins provide energy, help build and repair muscles, form new skin, hair, and nail cells, and even keep the immune and musculoskeletal systems strong. Protein requirements vary with age, activity level, temperament, life stage, health status, and the specific protein quality of the diet. Estimating Protein needs Although energy requirements vary widely between dogs, protein needs are fairly constant. Adult dogs generally need at least 1 gram of protein per pound. However, younger and geriatric dogs may need more; young pets for early growth, and old pets because they appear less able to take advantage of dietary protein than their younger counterparts. But these amounts are only the minimums. Remember that you want your dog to thrive, not just subsist on the minimum industry standard. Fats Fat is the second main nutritional requirement for your German Shepherd. Fat provides energy and is necessary for the normal development and function of body cells, nerves, muscles, and tissues. But these minimums will only sustain your German Shepherd, not provide optimum health and sustained growth. Manufacturers further combine fiber, vitamins, and minerals to meet the minimum nutrient profiles of commercial dog food. Most German Shepherd owners use treats daily either in the training or for general fun with their dogs. Treats and Snacks German Shepherds rarely turn down a tasty treat or snack. There are a wide variety of treats available commercially, but these vary in quality. Try to limit treats to reward good behavior or for enrichment exercises to avoid the dreaded German Shepherd boredom. These are good alternatives as they are lower in calories. Examples of safe natural treats to feed include: Sliced cooked or raw carrot Frozen blueberries great for teething puppies and on hot days Slices of apple with the core and seeds removed If you have questions regarding which treats to feed, start with one of these healthy German Shepherd treat options. Feeding Habits Create good feeding habits for your German Shepherd from a young age. Follow these diet tips to keep your athletic dog in top form. Any uneaten food should be removed after about 20 minutes to encourage good eating behaviors. Some German Shepherds may develop fussy eating habits. In many cases, this is down to an owner being too quick to offer something tastier. Stay mindful of this and resist giving in to your dog immediately. Provide access to fresh water at all times. Always leave their water bowl available and check it regularly. This is normal, as German Shepherds are notoriously messy drinkers and tend to splash out more water than they drink sometimes. Plus, bits of food tend to wind up in the water dish, making the water turn cloudy quickly. Last, here are a few tips to make feeding your German Shepherd easier. Choose the best diet for your German Shepherd to match their life stage and activity, as well as dog food that is: Complete — includes all required nutrients. Balanced —all nutrients are present in the appropriate balance. Appetizing— your dog enjoys eating the food in sufficient amounts to keep them in optimum body condition. Safe — is free of weaknesses, excesses, toxins, unnecessary sugars, salts, additives, and dyes. Feeding a German Shepherd requires a balanced combination of nutrition to keep their energy reserves in check while not adding any excess weight which could harm their larger frames and bones. Additional References Coile, D. Henriksson J, et al. Journal of Experimental Biology. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Shares German Shepherds are graceful, obedient, and loyal dogs with specific nutritional needs. Following a German Shepherd puppy feeding chart will enable you to track the amount of food your puppy is eating as they grow. There are varieties of foods available in the market and most of them come with guidelines at the back of the packaging showing you how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy. This article will cover different types of diets available and the specific nutritional needs of your German shepherd. It will also help you know what to do to ensure that your GSD gets nutritious and balanced food for every stage of their life. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart There are three aspects of this German Shepherd puppy feeding chart, namely the German shepherd feeding amount, feeding frequency, and mealtime lengths. It is important to find out the appropriate feeding amount, frequency, and length for your German shepherd without leaving out one of them. That way, you can accurately find out the best way to feed your dog. Overall, there are four ranges that you need to keep in mind. An active dog may require a bit more than the numbers in this list, and an inactive dog will need a slightly less amount. But this guide can act as a solid benchmark. A puppy will need to eat more because they are growing very quickly. Talk to your vet about how much exactly so you keep them healthy and happy. Make sure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water all day. When you take your dog for a walk make sure to bring along some extra water in a collapsible bowl. If they get tired on the way or it gets very hot, this can save their life. So for example, if your dog is 60lbs they should eat between lbs of food in one day. If you notice your dog is losing weight, add more calories to its meal size. However, there are other considerations on how much to feed a German shepherd puppy per day. You might want to consider avoiding meals right before bedtime. Let them digest their food first before they go to sleep. Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs All dogs require nutritious, satisfying, and healthy food and every breed have their special diet. For maximum energy and health, there are factors to consider when deciding what to feed your German Shepherd: Size considerations- the AKC breed standard says that a German Shepherd can go to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Females can be around 49 to 71 pounds while Males can be around 66 to 88 pounds. This means that they have a big appetite hence it is good to find quality food for them. They grow pretty fast hence they need specific nutrients for specific stages. Activity level- German shepherds are muscular, active, and agile which contributes to higher caloric needs to be complemented by feeding them a high-quality diet. Health consideration- GSDs are prone to many diseases hence a healthy diet will prevent problems. For example, arthritis that is caused by hip and elbow dysplasia can be mitigated through an excellent diet. Ensure that your GSD diet contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. How long does it take for your dog to be full? Is your dog still hungry after eating his portion? German shepherds normally take anywhere from 10 minutes to 15 minutes to finish the meal, given that you followed the proper feeding guidelines properly. If your dog shows signs of slow eating, we recommend sending them to your vet. If you think your dog is already full before finishing his portion, there is no problem. However, if your dog is still hungry after finishing the meal, consider sending him to your vet. This is because this can be a sign of a serious health issue involving their digestive system. They encourage the puppy to chew hence preventing periodontal diseases or tartar. Kibble is less expensive to buy and can stay fresh for longer. See also German Shepherd Gestation Period And Pregnancy Wet food is also essential for puppies because they allow puppies to feel fuller with less food. If your GSD need to shed a few pounds, wet food is a good way to reduce their caloric intake. Wet food is easier to digest, hence they are good for German shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet food is appetizing and keeps the puppy hydrated. You need to understand why your puppy cannot eat because it will help you determine the way to deal with the issue. There is no need to worry if the puppy lost appetite shortly and goes back to normal eating without any sign of illness. If the puppy loses appetite and takes a few days without improvement, take your puppy to the vet to find the problem because your dog might be sick. If the vet finds that the puppy is sick, they may suggest a special diet that will boost their immunity and give them extra nutrients to better their recovery. The puppy may have stopped eating because of behavioral issues; therefore, you may need to feed them same time to get a routine. Treats and human food that is given to the puppy may need to be reduced and also you can try different kinds of food. The German shepherd is a medium dog breed according to the AKC. Therefore, free-feeding is not a good idea. For the German shepherds, feeding schedules work better. If the puppies are free-fed the puppy may eat the leftover at any time even when they are not hungry. Sticking to a feeding routine help the puppy to stay healthy and prevent obesity. When you have a schedule, managing their weight and house training will improve. The puppy usually relieves themselves around 15 minutes after eating or drinking, therefore, when they feed at the same time every day and are taken outside after a while, accidents will be minimized. A raw diet is good for German shepherds. A raw diet help improves vitality and energy. The puppy gets healthy white teeth with an increased lifespan and reduced shedding as well as a stronger immune system. Raw meat is a great source of protein and an optimal diet. It is like keto to humans because it allows the puppy to reach their total capacity and good health. Dogs are naturally carnivorous, hence raw diet aligns with their natural needs. However, you should speak to your vet before putting your puppy on a raw food diet. The majority of commercially available kibble food is balanced and complete, and of high quality for your German shepherd puppy. Human supplements often contain harmful substances to animals and are unregulated or minimally effective. Therefore, never give human supplements to your German shepherd puppy. But they can eat small amounts of cooked chicken or turkey, plain cooked sweet potatoes or carrots, plain yogurt, and small amounts of fruits like apples or bananas without getting sick. Talk to a vet for advice on how to feed your German Shepherd puppy a healthy and balanced diet. These include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chives, avocado, onions, nuts, grapes and raisins, garlic, raw or undercooked meat, and bones. These foods can cause a wide range of health problems, from stomachaches to more serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney failure. Some foods that people eat may have a lot of sodium or sugar, which can also be bad for dogs. How much food to give an older German Shepherd will depend on their needs and how much they move around. But as dogs get older, they tend to slow down and may need less food to stay at a healthy weight. As a general rule, an older German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of food per day, which should be divided between two meals. A German Shepherd that is getting older should eat high-quality senior dog food that is made for their age and size. Senior dogs might also benefit from getting smaller meals more often. If your German Shepherd puppy seems to always be hungry, you should look at what they eat and how often they eat. Make sure they eat enough for their age, weight, and level of activity. Puppies grow quickly and need more calories than adult dogs, so it is possible that they are not getting enough food. Also, make sure you feed them high-quality puppy food that is right for their age and size. If you are worried about how hungry they are or how much they weigh, you should talk to a vet to rule out any health problems and make a plan for feeding them. The amount of dry food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Adult dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Active dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Senior dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. If the dog is obviously overweight or underweight, adjust accordingly. If you can feel most of the ribs without squeezing your fingers in between them — try 1 cup per day. This is a decent starting point for a growing large breed puppy that needs the extra calories to grow big and strong. If you can feel most of the ribs AND see its waist — try 3 cups per day. This is perfect for an adult German Shepherd which needs extra calories due to being very active. With this amount, it will be able to maintain its weight, but not gain any extra fat. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 3. This is a good amount for a very active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain a healthy weight. This should be sufficient for an adult German Shepherd which is quite active. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 5 cups per day. This is a good amount for an extremely active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain lean muscle mass. For example, when my dog was a puppy, he would feel all ribs and see his waist when eating 2 cups of food per day. However, as he got older and larger, I had to increase the amount — even though I could still feel most of the ribs! He maintained around .Although there are lots of opinions on how much food your shepherds needs, these guidelines work for me and my German Shepherds. Everyone is different though, so you will have to adjust accordingly if necessary — this guide should help you until you find the ideal amount. If your dog is a very active one it may need more food depending on its activity level. Always be sure to give plenty of water since dry kibble can dehydrate the animal over time. However, this amount will vary depending on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Puppies and young dogs, for example, generally need more water than adult German Shepherds. And working dogs or those who exercise frequently may require even more. This is because they can easily hydrate themselves if given free access to water. However, you still need to remember some things. For example, take note that your dog will need to drink 6 ounces of water per day for every 3. Depending on the temperature and activeness, this amount can increase. Lastly, make sure you take extra care in providing water access to your German shepherd. The most preferable way is to fill a bowl with a moderate amount of water, not too much. The feeding amount, frequency, length, and water requirements can always be changed. If you have no time to visit your vet, the following topic may help you. How Much Should A 1-year-old German Shepherd Eat A 1-year-old German Shepherd should eat about two and a half to three cups of food each day, broken up into two or three meals. Pointers for Feeding German Shepherds Improper feeding practices can lead to serious health problems for German shepherds. An owner is responsible for taking into consideration the age and weight of a German shepherd before feeding them. When feeding a german shepherd puppy that is four to six months old, you must give them two meals a day that comprises around eight ounces and five ounces. When feeding a German shepherd puppy that is between seven and twelve months old, the meal amounts should be increased to ten ounces for each meal. This amount should be split into three smaller meals. This is regardless of whether they are active or not. Yep, German shepherds can gain weight regardless of whether they exercise or not. If you think your dog is gaining too much weight, you can split their daily calories into four or five smaller meals. Some people prefer using dry dog food, while others would choose canned dog food. Whatever you choose for your German shepherd is usually okay, but canned food tends to contain more moisture than dry food which may lead to bladder stones in certain dogs. However, when it comes to the amount of dog food you feed your German shepherd, canned food leads to more obesity than dry food. If your German shepherds are over five years old, you must give them an extra meal. This additional meal should comprise around four ounces of food so they can easily digest it during their older age. When feeding a German shepherd puppy, you must know how to correctly measure their food amount. Be accurate when following the proper measurements; otherwise, it could lead to your dog gaining too much weight. Use measuring cups that are specifically made for dry food. If you use any other type of measuring device, it might lead to your dog eating too much or too little food. You must not feed your German shepherd until they are full, but allow them to eat until they are slightly satiated. Do not serve unlimited food; give them about two to three cups of food per day. If you are unsure whether or not your German shepherd is obese, check its waistline. If they have a thick waist and their stomach looks like a sphere, then that is a clear sign that your German shepherd is obese. Never let them finish their meal if they are still hungry; otherwise, you will encourage them to gorge on their food. Your German shepherd must always have access to fresh clean water, so you should ensure they can drink it whenever necessary. Feeding Guidelines by Age Before proceeding with the following points, remember that age is not the only determining factor in a German shepherd feeding chart. Make sure to consider all the content in this blog post as well. It is recommended that you slowly let them adapt first. This can be their regular food from now on. This includes fruits, bones, and more. You should also avoid giving them your leftovers. However, they will need time to adapt. You should also consider feeding your German shepherd foods that can be gnawed and chewed. This is so they can develop their jaws, teeth, and gums. This will result in less feeding amount and frequency. Feeding Guidelines by Weight German shepherds can be of different weight ranges. An average weighted German shepherd 35 kilograms will then need calories per day. This only applies to German shepherds that do not exercise or are inactive. Active German Shepherds: In the case of active German shepherds that exercise regularly, every 1 kilogram equals 55 calories per day. So an average weighted German shepherd will require calories per day to be able to function properly. Take note, however, that this calculation may be affected if the German shepherd has a health disorder concerned with metabolism or digestion. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Guidelines Our last topic involves the difference between a puppy and an adult. The following are some of the facts that recent studies have proven: Puppies have higher energy levels than adults. This means they need to eat more than adult German shepherds. German shepherds will need higher protein and fat content at an early age. The amount of fat and protein will decrease as they grow older. Puppies cannot tolerate too many nutrients. Ingesting extra minerals and vitamins may lead to serious health disorders. Meanwhile, adults are only risking being overweight when taking in more than intended. German Shepherds usually have a good appetite and can eat a lot, especially when they are young and growing. But their food intake should be balanced and right for their age, weight, and level of activity to keep them from getting too much food and getting fat. As they age, they should usually eat less quickly. Most of the time, bones that have been cooked and ground up completely may be safe to eat. Instead, give them dog-made chew toys or treats. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Since German Shepherds consume meat, it follows that they must consume a significant amount of animal protein in order to get all of the necessary nutrients. Although while it is feasible to offer a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, owners of German Shepherds should avoid doing so since it increases the likelihood that their dogs will not get all of the nutrients that they need. After talking about the feeding amount, frequency, and lengths of a German shepherd, you can now easily plan how much, how many times, and how long you feed your dog. You even learned how to hydrate your German shepherd the proper way. Lastly, we talked about the difference between a puppy and an adult in terms of feeding. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. German Shepherd care German Shepherd puppy diet: newborn For a German Shepherd puppy to develop and grow properly, it is imperative that they first nurse on their mother's milk. The first milk they receive is a protein and antibody-rich type of milk known as colostrum. This gives the puppy's immune and central nervous systems a boost. They then progress on to regular breast milk. Puppies will nurse for at least 6 to 8 weeks, gradually being weaned on to solid food at about 4 weeks. If, for any reason, the puppy cannot suckle its mother, don't give them cow or goat milk. These milks are very poor quality in comparison to a puppy's mother's milk. If your German shepherd puppy has to be prematurely weaned, a veterinarian will be able to prescribe specific infant formula and establish the appropriate dosage for your puppy. For example, a Chihuahua and a German Shepherd should not be fed the same food. This is because hese breeds have different nutritional needs. Take a look here to find out more about the diet for a prematurely weaned puppy. German Shepherd puppy diet: 1 month old From 3 to 4 weeks old, when it comes to feeding a German Shepherd puppy, we should start by letting them taste new foods and flavors. At this stage, the German Shepherd puppy's diet plan requires them to eat a special wet food for puppies. At around 6 to 8 weeks old, a German Shepherd puppy should be given a little dry dog food with water, or unseasoned chicken stock between nursing sessions. From their eighth week onward, a German Shepherd should be weaned and start feeding on solid food with a special puppy feed. The best dog food for a German Shepherd puppy is breed specific, but this may not be available everywhere. In these cases, your veterinarian can create a proper food plan for your German Shepherd puppy. At this stage, milk must be removed from the puppy's diet as it could cause diarrhea. If by any chance your dog or puppy is suffering from a bad stomach, we recommend taking a look at our article on what to do if yourt dog has diarrhea. In addition, it is vital that puppies have constant access to clean fresh water. German Shepherd puppy diet: 2 months old At two months of age, you can start to slowly decrease the moistening of your German Shepherd's dry food. Eventually, the puppy will be used to eating the food completely dry. Following the German Shepherd puppy food chart, from 2 until 4 months old, a puppy will eat 4 or 5 times a day. This has to be carried out with one very important addition: discipline. A puppy needs to learn that it will not be fed constantly throughout the day, but at specific times. We start of by placing a bowl of food down for 10 minutes, this should give the puppy enough time to finish its meal. After 10 minutes, we suggest taking the bowl of food away, even if your puppy hasn't finished eating. A puppy's food bowl must only be available to the dog for 10 minutes. This 10 minutes should be enough time for the puppy to eat all of its provided food. As already mentioned, after 10 minutes, you should take the food bowl away, even if the puppy hasn't finished eating. This pattern will introduce the puppy's food schedule and allow it an opportunity to become accustomed to particular feeding times. Accepting and adapting to a diet plan is very important for a puppy's intellectual development. It also facilitates more complex and demanding training sessions. Food for German shepherd puppies should be higher in calories, fats, proteins and calcium than adult German Shepherd dog food. This is because puppies are still growing and developing and therefore need better nutrition. German Shepherd puppy diet: food plan after 4 months Between 4 and 6 months of age, the number of meals which we have detailed in our German Shepherd puppy food chart should be reduced to 3 a day. The food quantity should be increased and an extra margin of 2 minutes to eat should be provided. The packaging of quality commercial dog food will detail the appropriate suggested amount of food for the puppy, depending on its age and weight. If you have any doubts, consult your veterinarian. You should eventually start mixing fresh food, such as meat, fish or vegetables, with the commercial dry feed. Beware of forbidden foods for dogs. Some people ask about a raw diet for a German shepherd puppy, but we recommend these such foods should always be cooked and never given to a dog raw. Meanwhile, treats for dogs should only be used as positive reinforcement during their training and learning period, never as a food supplement. Under no circumstances should you give your German Shepherd, or any dog, human food leftovers. Human food contains salt, sugar and seasoning contents which are very harmful to a dog's health. In addition, if you do offer your dog your food, it will pester you during meals [1]. For more, take a look at some of the harmful effects of treating a dog like a human. German Shepherd puppy diet: after 6 months When your German Shepherd puppy reaches 6 months of age, its daily food intake should be reduced to twice a day. When we do this we can increase the food portions and eating time accordingly. Our German Shepherd diet chart below should be taken into account depending on the age, lifestyle and size of your German Shepherd puppy. After 6 months, you should give your German Shepherd puppy shatterproof bones, such as beef, to gnaw on. For more, take a look here for more about; Bones For Puppies. German shepherd puppy: Dog food and water bowl hygiene Your puppy's food and drink containers should always be clean. Hygiene is very important in order to prevent the appearance of insects. If you notice that your puppy has not eaten for three consecutive meals, consult your veterinarian immediately. This lack of appetite in a puppy could be caused by bowel obstruction and stomach pain; due to the ingestion of toxic food etc. Don't forget that puppies are very sensitive and fragile and if you ignoring any symptoms of disease, it can result in severe issues or even puppy fatality. German Shepherd care German Shepherd puppies should be socialized and trained to live with you from day one. These dogs are incredibly capable and have the ability, if trained properly, to learn tricks and perform activities [2]. In addition to the diet of a German Shepherd, don't forget the importance of preventative medicines, following the appropriate vaccination schedules and general German Shepherd dog care. For more information about your German shepherd, take a look at.Growth and weight The German Shepherd puppy is a popular addition to many households. Sometimes called the Alsatian puppy, the German Shepherd was initially developed for herding and now commonly used as a working dog or pet. This is your guide to providing all the nutrients your new puppy needs. When Your Puppy Comes Home Although they look pretty sturdy at eight weeks old, German Shepherd puppies are vulnerable to tummy upsets when they arrive at a new home. To help them settle in stick with the food their breeder was giving them for the first two weeks minimum. You can then gradually swap over by increasing proportions over the course of a couple of days. However, if they are doing well on their original food, considering sticking with it for longer. To begin with follow the guidelines provided by the breeder, the feed manufacturer or by your veterinarian. This will vary depending on how calorie dense the food is and how it is formulated. Your puppy should be fed four times a day up to the age of four months. After this age, two larger meals at regular times will be sufficient. However, the more often you feed your pup the stronger your bond will grow. Simple sits and recalls, puppy tricks, they all make a big difference to how your dog behaves towards you and feels about you as they grow. What to Feed A German Shepherd Puppy You will find there are a lot of different opinions about what kind of food is best. Kibble and wet food are the most popular, but you do also have the option of raw or homemade meals. Puppy Kibble Great quality, high meat content kibble is my go-to for feeding larger puppy breeds. At the beginning of the day I measure out their daily food amount, then separate it into little pots. Some as meals, and the remainder to use throughout the day to reward good behavior or get off on the right foot with positive reinforcement. The FDA recently issued a notice alerting dog owners to a potential increased risk of a serious heart condition. This is called canine dilated cardiomyopathy DCM. The risk is in dogs eating foods that include peas, lentils, or potatoes instead of grains. The underlying cause of these cases is not clear, but the FDA note suggests that caution should be used in selecting foods with these ingredients for German Shepherds and other large dogs. Canned Dog Food For picky eaters canned food can be more appealing. It smells stronger, and debatably tastes nicer. These diets do not include cooked or otherwise processed foods. However, it may be more difficult to regulate a BARF diet to ensure a slow and steady growth rate in young puppies. If you find this option intriguing, you can check out our article on feeding your dog a raw diet. Homemade Diets Research has shown that in the past, poorly balanced homemade diets have been harmful to German Shepherd puppies. There is now abundant information available to anyone who is willing and able to produce a safe and balanced diet. However, modern cases studies have shown that well-meaning owners may still over-feed or create an unbalanced diet. So, this is an area where you really can have too much of a good thing. As with commercial foods, homemade diets must be properly formulated for a large breed dog. Do not deviate from recommended recipes as provided by a veterinarian. If possible, preferably a vet with a board certification in veterinary nutrition. Recipes published in popular magazine and websites may not be nutritionally complete or suitable for a large breed puppy. Is My Puppy the Right Weight? You can also refer to German Shepherd puppy growth charts to see if you puppy is gaining weight and within the normal range. However, keep in mind that some dogs will be unusually small or large but still be perfectly healthy. Do not try to maximize growth rates as this can lead to health problems later. Ensure that you are familiar with how to assess the body condition of your puppy. The ribs and spine should be easy to feel but not simple to see. My Puppy Is Still Hungry If your puppy seems excessively hungry provide more frequent but smaller meals. Young puppies cannot tolerate going without food for extended periods. With older puppies you may wish to experiment with foods that help them feel more full, and provide low calories treats. Keeping a health puppy active and occupied will help prevent them from becoming overly focused on anticipating their next meal. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading.

If you travel, this soft crate is a great temporary home for your Goldendoodle. No assembly is required. Strong steel tubes make up the frame. Puppies and others who still chew things are one questionable group. The MidWest iCrate Kitis a best seller. It features several options such as a single or double door. With your purchase, you receive a free divider panel, dog tray, and carrying handle. Proper ventilation, large door openings with low thresholds, and rounded corner.We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. If you purchase a large kennel, you can move it to different spots in your home without damaging the flooring. Midwest manufacturers a series of crates and sizes for each. Some assembly without tools is required. Assembly takes a few seconds. Look for the Instructions in the box. The kennel folds flat for easy storing and travel. The bottom is not waterproof, so consider placing a rag under the kennel for easy accident cleanup. You receive a durable plastic kennel that protects your Goldendoodle during air travel or a car trip to the vet. The four-way vault door adds a layer of security. Ventilation keeps your pet comfortable. The product includes two Live Animal stickers, clip-on bowls, and ID stickers. Top Handle available on 21 inch and 28 inch sizes Airline Adaptable: The Petmate Sky Kennel meets most airline cargo specifications for easy and safe travel, but pet owners should always check with individual airlines We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. To find what size kennel for a Goldendoodle is best from the plastic category, be sure to measure your Goldendoodle well. Then, pick the best product size according to height and weight. By going up a size, your dog should be able to rest comfortably inside the shell without feeling cramped or anxious with plenty of space for the dog bed. Bridie is a proud Goldendoodle mom! Part-time health worker, life-time dog writer and lover. She loves to help people best care for their puppies. Load More. On the other hand, we recommend a 42 inch crate for standard and large Goldendoodles. If you want to give your large Goldendoodle a bit more space, a 48 inch dog crate will be okay. As long as you have enough space, it would be fine to give them a little more space. Top Picks: Best Goldendoodle Dog Crates It was a rather difficult task filtering out so many wonderful dog crates that are perfect for Goldendoodle. We recommend this crate not just for Doodles, but for nearly every dog breed. Plus, tens of thousands of happy customers love it! Best Features Midwest Homes does a fantastic job because they focus on dog safety. If you have a pup that likes to chew their crate, this is perfect. In addition, all the corners of the crate are rounded. Goldendoodles are quite energetic, so this is a pretty important feature. One of the best features of the iCrate is the standard divider panel. Especially with the large variation, Goldendoodles grow quickly and a lot. A panel lets you adjust the space of the crate according to the current size of your Doodle. Sometimes, too much space for a little pup can cause even more anxiety. So, this is pretty important if you plan to get the 42 or 48 inch crate. Fortunately, the iCrate is built with a collapsible design. The removable plastic tray allows you to easily slide out the bottom of the crate to clean up — hassle free! Your Goldendoodle is likely to make a mess, so this feature saves a lot of time. Double doors are a great option because it allows multiple access points to your Doodle. For such a large crate, this will definitely be useful. If we had to nitpick, we would like to see thicker wiring on the frame of the crate. Still, she likes the collapsible feature. Dan says the iCrate was super easy to set up and take down. He bought a 42 inch for his 55 pound Doodle. His favorite part is the incredibly sturdy and hard plastic on the bottom removable tray. She loves how easy it is to assemble by herself! As expected from the tech giant, the Amazon Basics Dog Crate is a fantastic crate with all the options we love. Best Features The Amazon Basics dog crate is one of the best crate on the internet, for good reason. Like with the iCrate, the Amazon Basics uses a dual slide bolt lock for secure your Goldendoodle. It also comes with a removable plastic tray, which allows you to quickly clean up the crate. In the event your Goldendoodle has an accident, simply slide out the bottom, wipe it down and slide it back in. One of the best features we like with the Amazon Basics is the divider panel. Having such a big crate, multiple entrances gives you easier access to your dog and whatever you decide to put in the crate. If you want to put away your crate, no need to worry! Whether you want to store away your crate or move it to another location, this feature comes in handy. As a result, they have the same limitations and cons. We would have liked to see thicker frames and wiring on the Amazon Basics. For more information about the Amazon Basics dog crate, check it out at Amazon. What Goldendoodle Owners are Saying Roger bought a 36 inch for his Goldendoodle puppy to begin crate training. At first, he admits he was a little wary because of how cheap this crate costed. He loves how the divider panel can be adjusted as his dog grows bigger. Hinges are smooth and the latches are secure. Roger even mentioned that the metal clamps on the joints seem to be high quality! Rossy bought a 42 inch for her 55 pound Goldendoodle. Her favorite part of the crate is how easy she was able to take our the bottom plastic tray to clean out any accidents. We love this dog crate for a lot of reasons, mainly because of the affordable price. But with a slightly cheaper price, it lacks some important features that we like. Best Features The New World metal dog crate is crafted with high quality metal that makes it ultra lightweight and durable. Like the other options, the New World metal dog crate also comes in a collapsible design. All quality dog crates will come with a removable plastic tray. This feature is essential and fortunately, the New World crate comes with this. The New World metal dog crate comes with dual slide bolt latches. Good luck to your dog trying to escape this one. Double doors is a great option for such a large dog crate. It gives you easier access to your Doodle and whatever you decide to put inside chew toys, bowls, etc. The Cons The biggest downside to the New World dog crate is the lack of a standard divider panel. Goldendoodles can grow fairly quickly within the first year of their existence. Also, we would have liked thicker wiring for the frame of this crate. If you want to learn more about the New World dog crate, you can check it out at Amazon. What Goldendoodle Owners are Saying Kip says that this does the job. His only complaint was that the top latch sticks just a bit. By herself, it only took 2 minutes to set this up — it just folds right up. These dogs love people and are subject to separation anxiety when you leave the house. Fortunately, a crate cover can help. In addition, a crate cover provides extra security and comfort for your Goldendoodle. This reduces anxiety and stress. In fact, crate covers are recommended by veterinarians for dogs that experience some form of anxiety. Best Features This crate cover is compatible with all the recommended dog crates on this list. Using hook and loop tabs, you can secure the flaps to the edges of the crate. When it gets a little too dirty, just toss it in any standard machine washer. It also comes with a one-year warranty! Do you use any of these dog crates for your Goldendoodle? If so, let us know what you think in the comments section below. And if you would recommend another dog crate for a Doodle, leave a link below! Post navigation. These crates are durable and lighter weight than the metal kind so they may offer a middle-of-the-road approach for some people. Although not very pleasant to look at, they are tried and true and are used by animal shelters and provide a safe, secure place for your dog to stay. A crate can take up a lot of space if you intend to purchase one that cannot be folded and put away. A medium wire crate may take up a space of 30 inches in length by 20 inches in width. This is a good solution if you have a large house and plenty of space but if you live in a small apartment or a small home, you may be better off with a more portable solution. The same can be said about a wooden crate. A wooden crate could be left out at all times and double as a toy box or a safe place for your dog to go during a storm or other stressful times. Our Mini Goldendoodle sleeping in her crate Many people use crates in different ways. Our dog only spent a limited amount of time in hers. We used it when she was a puppy for training and our dog also was kept inside it when we were gone during the day. As she grew out of the puppy stage and was house trained, she was pretty much done with her crate. We used a crate as a safe place for our mini Doodle to stay in while she was learning the rules of our household. On the other hand, some people use a crate for the entire life of their dog. Some dogs feel safe in their crate and continue to use them throughout their lives when their owner is gone. Once you know how often you intend to use your crate for your dog, this will help you determine the best crate option for your needs. She got right in it when we brought her home as if she knew she was supposed to. It was clear to us that she already knew what a crate was and at 7 weeks old, she considered it a safe place. She enjoyed it much of her young life and we always tried to make it a happy place for her. We made it comfortable and kept toys in it. We also gave her treats to eat while she was in it so that she would associate getting treats with being in her crate. As she grew older, she no longer wanted to be in her crate and this is understandable. If you want your dog to have a good experience with their crate, the following tips may help. Give your dog treats when they are in their crate. Sometimes she would even play with them inside the crate. Make sure it has a nice thick crate pad and other comfortable items such as blankets, pillows, etc. Use it only for positive reinforcement. Avoid putting your dog into their crate as a form of punishment. This is one sure-fire way to teach your dog to dislike their crate. A crate can be a great place for your dog to spend time. Just make sure that you have chosen a crate that is properly sized and treat it as a happy place. Your dog should grow to feel safe and comfortable with it. Bottom Line The type of crate you purchase for your mini Goldendoodle comes down to personal preference. Any type of crate will do the trick as long as it is properly sized. Our mini Goldendoodle had many years of enjoyment out of her crate. There was a time when she loved to be in it and felt safe and secure. We chose her crate based on the size we thought she would grow into and because of that, still have the same crate and can use it should the need arise. If you are choosing a crate, keep your dog in mind and purchase a crate that you feel will best serve their needs. Dan Collins Not only am I a dog or pet lover, but an animal lover. My Goldendoodle has opened my eyes to how special animals can be and I am proud to be her dad. I write about Doodles and share my knowledge and experience of owning a mini Goldendoodle for 16 years. Recent Content. Nobody goes to the market to buy a baby shoe without first knowing the size. The same applies to crate size for Goldendoodle. You will need a measuring tape to measure your Goldendoodle accurately. This is critical because it will enable you to determine the accurate crate size. To assure its comfort, add four inches to whatever measurement you get. Find out how tall your Goldendoodle is by taking their measurement. If you measure the height, you can ensure it relaxes in the crate without bumping its head. Determine the ideal Goldendoodle crate size. If you need more space, you can always pick up a size, but be aware that a smaller Goldendoodle may be able to squeeze between larger crates. How to Crate Train a Goldendoodle A growing dog can learn a lot from being trained to use a crate. Most people, though, lose hope after a few days. We would like to help you get past this problem. In this area, you will learn how to train a Goldendoodle puppy to use a crate. Remember, it can be a complicated process but with time, everything will go smoothly. Step One: Determine the Crate Size To successfully crate train a Goldendoodle puppy, the first step is to choose the right crate size. You do not want a crate that is too big, or your puppy will pee and poop in it. You also do not want a kennel with small crates because they can be uncomfortable. Entice them with something that they love — chew toys. For the first few days, you should have training goodies on hand, and when you are away, you should have special treats and engaging toys. The ideal items are chew toys like KONG toys or beloved toys that your puppy only gets while you are away. Giving your puppy goodies while teaching them is the objective here and giving them something entertaining to do while you are gone. You will see faster results if you make crate training your Goldendoodle dog enjoyable. Step Three: Understand Your Goldendoodles Getting a Goldendoodle puppy familiar with a crate is the next step in crate training them. Place your dog box in a room with lots of visitors. The living room or another place where your puppy will spend most of his time. In addition to the previous step, you can include a few toys—but not the prized ones—and a couple of throw blankets to make it feel cozy. Keep the crate door open, and if your puppy enters the crate voluntarily, reward them with a treat and compliment them on a job well done. Your dog will quickly realize that getting into the crate is good. You should give in even if they come in and out often to obtain treats. With the help of this positive reinforcement, your Goldendoodle puppy will learn that when he enters, pleasant things will happen to him. Step Four: Use Play Fetch to Keep Your Goldendoodles active A game of fetch may help your puppy enter the crate on his own if he is having trouble doing so. In the same room as the kennel, start by playing a game of fetch with his favorite toy. Throw the toy into the crate after some back and forth. At first, your puppy could seem a little wary, but that is okay. Tell him it is ok and encourage him gently. Give your puppy a treat and praise when it goes in to grab the toy. They will soon overcome their anxiety about the intimidating large metal item and enter independently. Then you can resume rewarding them every time they come in by themselves. Step Five: Feeding Your Goldendoodle Feeding your dog in the crate is another tactic to introduce them to the idea of crate training. Give your puppy the crate command after preparing their supper. After doing this for a few days, you should tell it the proper order so that they enter the crate before receiving food. A constructive technique to show them that the crate is not a frightening or punishing place is to conduct all everyday activities there. Step Six: Do not rush things — Start small It is time to let your puppy out of the crate now that they know it is fun and a way to receive treats. However, you should not just toss them in and call it a day. To begin with, go slowly. Take care of all their requirements first, including eating, drinking, using the restroom, and taking off their collars. Give your puppy a treat and a special toy before putting him in the crate. Walk out the door to give your dog the impression that you are leaving the house. Nevertheless, start with 5 minutes, do not go any longer. Every Goldendoodle should have access to a room where they can rest, feel protected, and find shelter. This is the ideal use for a crate! The crate your puppy is in will serve as their bedroom. It provides them with a private sanctuary where they can unwind. A crate also serves several functions that can benefit both you and your Doodle. Crate training is beneficial because it teaches your Goldendoodle to regulate its urine and bowel movements, which can help with potty training. Dogs will typically try their best not to soil the area where they sleep. They will want to keep their crate as tidy as they can as a result. Puppies will inevitably make mistakes over time. As a result, be careful to check on your puppy frequently while in the crate so you can clean up after them. When dogs get used to their kennel, they frequently enter it to relax or sleep. This is comparable to what dogs do while searching for a dugout or den in the wild. Finally, a crate can help prevent teething in your Doodle. As their teeth erupt, Goldendoodle puppies frequently chew on numerous objects. You can teach them that it is improper to chew on your clothing, shoes, or other personal objects by educating them to only bite on chew toys when they are in the crate. What to Avoid when Crate Training? Having learned how to crate train a Goldendoodle puppy, you need to know certain things to avoid. While it sounds straightforward to train your Goldendoodle, a few things might go wrong during the first several months of training. This might undo all the progress you have achieved for months. Here are some things to avoid at all costs if you want your puppy to pick things up quickly. Invading their Space Invading the place is the first mistake that individuals make. This crate is still a learning tool for your puppy. Additionally, you want it to have a peaceful and conducive atmosphere for your pet. You should let your puppy be if he is sleeping, eating, or exploring things in the crate. Using the crate to punish your Goldendoodle Using the crate as a punishment tool for your pet can also undermine crate training. Do not use a crate as a timeout if your dog destroys your favorite pair of shoes or has an accident in the house. Every time you leave the house, your dog will think he has done something wrong if you use the crate as a punishment tool. Because your puppy is oblivious to his mistakes when you leave, it may even develop separation anxiety in the future. Saying goodbyes and farewell to your doodle Most times, people do not consider how they say goodbyes when crate training a Goldendoodle. Your pet might get anxious once you talk a lot about leaving. Your puppy will learn that your departure is terrible through your tearful farewells. In addition, your puppy experiences anxiety while waiting for you to get home from work. As a result, you will want to remain calm during each situation. Give your dog the crate command and walk away imperturbably, as if you were just brushing your teeth. Also, take care of business first when you get home. They will be pleased, but they will soon need to go pee. You can greet them when you return by playing a nice game. A pet can get uncomfortable and even suffocate in a too small crate, while a too big crate can prevent the creature from feeling snug. Even a wider crate will tempt the dog to rest in the corner and relieve himself on the opposite side. The best way to get a comfortable crate size for Goldendoodle puppy is to measure it. It is the best technique that will also save you cost and space. Then add four inches to the measurement from the base of the tail to the tip of the nose. It is preferable to provide the Goldendoodle with a larger crate so they can stand up and spin around easily without bumping their heads. The Doodle can lie down on any side by putting its paws out in front of them. In addition, finding the proper crate size for a Goldendoodle puppy is more difficult than for an adult Goldendoodle. Fortunately, there is a recommended crate size for standard Goldendoodle puppy. Crates should be the following sizes for Goldendoodles: 42 inches Goldendoodle dog crate size is suitable for a standard Goldendoodle. Choose 36 inches Goldendoodle crate size for the miniature Goldendoodle since it is big enough to accommodate it. Overall, consider a large crate with a divider for your Goldendoodle since it will enable the necessary room for your puppy to grow. Simply take out the partition once it reaches adulthood. Goldendoodle and Appropriate Size of Crate Goldendoodles are a new breed of dog that came about when golden retrievers and poodles were bred together. Nevertheless, the type and size of your Goldendoodle will depend on the size of the parents and the breeds crossed with. Here is a rundown of the Goldendoodle size and their equivalent crate size. Mini Goldendoodle The average adult weight and height of miniature Goldendoodles are 15—35 pounds and 13—17 inches, respectively. You require a crate size for mini Goldendoodle puppy to be at least thirty inches for these mini breeds that are toy-poodle mixes. Medium Goldendoodle Medium Goldendoodles weigh 35 to 50 pounds on average as adults and stand 17 to 21 inches tall. Although the weight and height of medium Goldendoodles can vary slightly the crate size for medium Goldendoodle puppy is at least 36 inches. Standard Goldendoodle Standard Goldendoodles will mature to an adult weight of 50 to 75 pounds and a height of 22 inches or more. There are several times when you should put your Goldendoodle puppy in a crate. It also makes them feel better. However, when is it necessary to use a crate? First, put your pet in the crate when you are not around to watch them. So, if you need to go to work or take care of the yard, just put your Goldendoodle in a crate. Nevertheless, do not forget to feed or give them other things they need. Therefore, you can keep them safe and prevent damage to the house. Another time to get a crate is when you observe your puppy getting extremely excited. In this situation, you need to place them inside the crate pending when they cool down. Nevertheless, you should not use a crate to punish them. To make them feel secure, you can provide chew toys to keep them active. Furthermore, if you are traveling to another city, you can get a crate for your puppy. Putting the pet in a crate for a long walk keeps them safe and makes it easy for you to carry the pet. Lastly, putting a new puppy in a crate can be helpful, especially if you already have an older pet. Goldendoodle puppies are highly active, and their noise can bother other pets. Therefore, a crate will give the older pet a break and protect the puppy. The most important thing to remember is that Goldendoodles should not be crated for more than five hours per day. If not, there may be many complications. For instance, Goldendoodles, who thrive in social situations, are happy dogs. In addition, you should not kennel a Goldendoodle if it has separation anxiety because doing so will worsen the situation. Broken teeth or chipped claws are other significant symptoms that the pet was not kept in the crate. This suggests that the Doodle is unhappy in the crate and is attempting to get out. If you see such actions, you should also consult the veterinarian. Finally, you should not crate the Doodle if the vet advises against it due to health problems like arthritis or inflamed joints. To provide the dog with a blissful experience, buying the correct size cage and crate training are helpful processes. Remember, your pet should not fear the crate. How to Clean Your Goldendoodle Crate? Dogs usually keep their crates clean, which is one of the many fascinating things about them. But after a while, even a clean crate can start to smell bad. Take all the blankets and toys out of the crate. Throw the mats into the washer. Disinfect the toys or throw them in the washer with the blankets if they can handle them. Use a hand-held bath or a microfiber cloth washed in clean water to clean the crate. Put one tablespoon of soft dish soap per gallon of warm water in a bucket. Clean the metal by rinsing the cloth in warm soapy water. Use a brush to get rid of rust or dirt that has built up. Make sure you remove all the soap because dish soap can make dogs sick. Use a disinfectant by sprinkling it on and wiping it off with a sponge. Look up with your pet store about cleaning products that are safe for pets. Spray the metal crate liberally with the acid solution after filling a spray bottle with it. After around 15 minutes, rinse the acid solution with regular water if the vinegar smells repulsive. Use a washcloth to soak up all the water, so the metal does not rust. When the crate is dry, your pet can go back in. We suggest getting a inch dog crate for a Miniature Goldendoodle. On the other hand, for standard and large Goldendoodles, we recommend a inch crate. A inch dog crate will be fine if you want to give your big Goldendoodle a little more room. A inch dog crate is the best size for a Miniature Goldendoodle. You can also use other crate size if it provides the needed space for your doodle. Because standard Goldendoodles are a big breed, you will need a big crate—at least 36 to 42 inches wide for a pound Goldendoodle. Leave the Doodle in the crate for a few hours in the beginning. However, never keep a puppy or adult Goldendoodle in a crate for longer than five hours. In addition, ensure you use the crate size for eight-week-old Goldendoodle rather than choosing a smaller one. Your Goldendoodle puppy should not be in the crate for more than 4 hours. If they wait too long, they will start to feel anxious, angry, and distant, which are all signs of depression. An adult can spend the night in the crate if they go to the bathroom before and after. Conclusion The crate size for Goldendoodle you choose will depend on several factors. However, following the correct Goldendoodle dog crate size chart, you should get the perfect one for your puppy. However, it is important to buy a good crate since your puppy might use it for a long time. Nevertheless, knowing the crate size for your Goldendoodle is not enough as you need to learn how to clean it if you want your pet to stay comfortable and healthy. Related Posts. Amazon The perfect way to determine the right size crate for your Goldendoodle is to measure it. Measure your pet from the top of the head to the paw, keeping them seated, and add 4 inches to the result to get the appropriate crate height. Then measure the length from the bottom of the tail to the tip of the nose and add four inches. It also lets the doodle lie on any side by stretching out its paws in front of them. Apart from that, determining the right size crate for a Goldendoodle puppy is tougher than for a Goldendoodle adult. Fortunately, there is a standard crate size recommendation for the Goldendoodle puppy, as well as some helpful hints. So the right size crates for Goldendoodles are: For a standard-sized Goldendoodle, you should buy a inch crate. For the mini Goldendoodle, choose a inch crate as this will be sufficient. For the puppy, consider a large-sized crate with a divider. It will let you offer the required space throughout the growth of the puppy. Once the pet turns into an adult, simply remove the divider. What crate size is suitable for a beagle? The right time to crate the Goldendoodle There are plenty of times and situations when you should crate the dog. It also improves their well-being. So if you need to go to an office or maintain the yard, simply crate your Goldendoodle. This way, you can keep them safe and keep the house from destruction. Another appropriate time to crate your doodle is if they get excited. In this situation, crate-ing them will help cool them down. You can also offer them some toys while they are in the crate so they feel comfortable instead of afraid. Traveling is another vital reason to crate the dog. Taking the pet for a long walk in a crate helps keep them safe and allows them to carry it easily as well. Lastly, crating a new puppy is beneficial, especially if you have an older pet. Goldendoodle puppies are energetic and can disturb other pets as well. So, a crate will not only give a break to the older pet but also keep the puppy safe. Wrong Time To Crate The Goldendoodle The most important thing to remember is that you should not crate your Goldendoodles for more than 5 hours per day. Otherwise, it can bring plenty of difficulties. For example, Goldendoodles are a highly social breed, and social interaction makes them happy. Crating them for an extended period of time or on a regular basis can cause depression and increase their risk of behavioral issues. However, if you need to leave the house for an extended period of time, enlist the assistance of a family member, friend, or dog walker to keep the dog company. Chipped claws or broken teeth are also clear signs of keeping the pet away from the crate. Even you should talk to the vet if you notice such behaviors. Overall, getting the right size crate and crate training for the dog is a handy process to offer them a positive experience. Convince the doodle that the crate is a good thing and entice them into the crate using a treat. Teach them to sit and lie in the crate. In the initial stage, leave the doodle in the crate for a few hours. However, you can leave the pet throughout the night in the crate. Crate training and potty training can both take around 6 months or even longer. Final words In the end, you have got all the essential information to decide what size crate for Goldendoodle. Choosing the right size crate for your goldendoodle should be a straightforward task for you. Instead, crate trains your dog and introduces them to their new home in the most stress-free way. And, golden he is! This loving, adaptable, and friendly designer dog is the perfect addition to most families. The best of the best of the beloved Golden Retriever and the Poodle comes shining through with this crossbreed. If you are thinking of rushing right down to get a Goldendoodle, be sure to read up on this affectionate guy. Breed Goldendoodles are a designer dog, a product of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. The brainstorm to mix the two popular pure breeds came about in by English author and animal enthusiast, Monica Dickens, who happens to be the great-granddaughter of the famous writer, Charles Dickens. It was in the s when the concept of blending two full-blooded breeds came to be a hot trend. This breed is known as the Groodle in Australia. They had higher aspirations too. This breed also makes an excellent therapy dog. The Poodle, being intelligent and friendly, was one of the most common breeds to mix with another. Goldendoodles have been a favorite breed for years. So, it was that the two were united, in hopes that the optimal traits of the two parents would prevail. Although with mix-breeding, there are no guarantees and anything could happen, overall, the results were amazing. Goldendoodles ace the challenge of bringing the best of both breeds into existence. Generally, the mix is with a Standard Poodle and a Golden Retriever. There are some Goldendoodles that have Miniature or Toy Poodle mix, however. Since no hybrid dogs are recognized with the American Kennel Club or any of the other prominent all-breed purebred registries like the Canadian Kennel Club. The Poodle is one of the oldest breeds on record. He hails from Germany where he was bred to fetch waterfowl that had fallen during a hunt. This curly headed dog is quite intelligent and has become a favorite housedog. He comes in a variety of sizes including Standard, Miniature, and Toy. He is appreciated for his hypoallergenic coat as well as his endearing personality. When he was a hunting dog, he had a tough job to do. Fetching birds that had been shot, especially in bodies of water, could be quite grueling. Just imagine the tenacity it took the Poodle to endure the harsh winter climate that is common in Germany and to go out for hunts, day after day as was customary in those days of old. The water was often freezing cold or rough and choppy from high winds. If you picture the Poodle taking a leisurely swim to fetch a rubber duckie, think again. That took willpower. Poodles can be independent and even stubborn at times. Those things were necessary traits for the job he had to do. You may see a bit of the Poodle traits in your Goldendoodle, both awesome and not so awesome ones. Remembering from whence the characteristics came from is sure to give you a bit more patience. The Golden Retriever is a hunting dog who originated in Scotland as a gundog in the midth century. He is a beauty though a serious worker too. In fact, he loves to work. Initially, retrieving type dogs were reserved for the wealthy because they were mainly used to retrieve game that had been downed on land or in the water. It was important that a dog be able to service both land and water because the area consisted muchly of marshes. For this reason, only the best of the best Retrieving dogs made the cut and were bred. The result was the Golden Retriever we know and love today. As guns became more accurate, the need for more efficient gun dogs came to pass. The Golden was right on target, fetching from land or water with great speed and incredible accuracy. But the Golden Retriever stepped up to the challenge and aced his calling. The Golden Retriever is a hunting dog who originated in Scotland as a gundog. Of medium build with a strong and sturdy body, this dog is a real looker and is quite athletic and strong. It is in his blood to perform tasks just as his ancestors did. In modern days, he has service jobs like being a guide for the blind and is also a beloved family pet. That is why he was a hands-down choice when considering what breed would parent a breed designed to be a loveable family dog with a social, happy, and playful personality. Some Goldendoodles favor the Golden Retriever parent most. The naughty chewing habit may shine through too. Goldendoodles, like Golden Retrievers, are very trainable so the bad behavior can be nipped in the bud. He needs to work or at least to think he is. Goldendoodles are a well-loved hybrid dog. Appearance Goldendoodles, like many designer breeds, come in multiple sizes: small, medium, and large. The Miniature Goldendoodles stand about 13 to 24 inches while the Medium stand inches. The Large Standard Goldendoodle is about inches high. The average weight for the Large is pounds. The Miniature ones weigh in around pounds and Mediums tip the scale at around 40 to 50 pounds. Females run in the lesser weight and height. The Standard size is the most common of this designer group. The look of a Goldendoodle can vary as much as his size does. When a Goldendoodle is bred with a Poodle or any other variance other than a Poodle and Golden Retriever as parents, there is a tendency for the puppy to take on more of the Golden's side as being dominant. They will have curly and wavy coats that lay in loose ringlets and will usually have very expressive, almost mischievous expressions. First generation Goldendoodles are likely to have Poodle eyes which are dark and intelligent looking and a roundish skull if they have Poodle blood running thicker through them where those taking after the Golden Retriever side may have the Retriever will have eyes that are a bit lighter and are friendly and kind looking, more slanted than the round-eye Poodle look. Retriever faces are larger and more elongated than Poodles are. The coat of Goldendoodles can be a number of colors. Cream, gold, red, apricot, brown, chocolate, and gray are among the most popular colors. Nutrition It is vital that you feed your Goldendoodle a healthy diet that is specialized for his specific needs. You should consult with his veterinarian to find out what his nutritional needs are exactly and how often and how much food to give him. Be sure to limit treats and provide great quality food for him. Then, he may taper off and eat once or twice per day. His energy will need to be fueled so keep that in mind when choosing his feed. Also be certain to have lots of fresh water available to him at all times. Those with more Retriever will most likely require the least. Those who have the Poodle coat might need a trip to the groomer every now and then. In general, they do not have a shedding coat, but they do need to be brushed on a regular basis, like once or twice a week, in order to keep dead hair off and to prevent tangles and mats. Use a gentle shampoo and you may want to have his hair that grows over this eyes trimmed up too. Pay close attention to his ears. Keep them clean and dry. Toenails will need to be trimmed. It is a good idea to trim the hair that grows over their eyes. Toenails should be trimmed as in any other dog breed. Exercise Goldendoodles are high energy dogs. They can definitely be calm and love snuggling or laying by the fireplace too but they do require getting their energy out to be a really good, laid back, dog. Goldendoodles have strong working dog roots. He needs a purpose so be sure to give him one. He will need at least two thirty minute walks each day and some active time in between. Fetch is a favorite game for this designer dog. He will eat it up when you play along with him in interactive games, especially when toys are involved. Metal stimulation is imperative. If you have a spot where he can take a dip, let him. He also likes to hike and to run alongside you. You might also consider putting a little doggie backpack on him when you take him for a walk. This will give him the illusion that he is working and serving a purpose which is especially important with the Goldendoodle since he gets the working genes from both parents. If you slip a water bottle or something of significance in his backpack, all the better. More Information Personality The Goldendoodle is packed with personality. His is loveable and friendly. He falls in love with everyone and vice versa. He can help lead a blind individual and attend a party too. He is at home on the range as well. This loving and loyal pup makes a wonderful family dog. He loves to play and is funny to watch in action. He finds it humorous to be a clown or to be on the mischievous side at times. To get a better feel for what a pup might be like if you are ordering one, you can take a look at his parents, not only in physical appearance but find out about their personalities too. Chances are the little mates will have characteristics of both parents in their own unique blends. Goldendoodles are sharp. They get their intelligence from both parents and that was in the plan when the two purebred parents were united. The Goldendoodles may have more of a playful side though so be sure they have plenty of stimulation, both physically and mentally lest they find trouble to get into. They are not exempt from that by any stretch of the imagination. From performing their comical acts to guiding the handicapped, they are eager and willing to do just about anything for their humans. As far as negative traits go, there are only a few and they are quite minor. They tend to love a little too much. Because of their separation anxiety, they tend to get into trouble when left alone. You may return to find the sofa in sheds or your best pair of shoes devoured. If the problem is severe enough, you may consider crating him when no one is home with him. Some Goldendoodles take after their Golden Retriever parent and chew. You may also encounter some Poodle presence. The fact that he is so eager to please and smart will help you breeze right through that obstacle too. He just needs to know what is acceptable and what is not. Training The Goldendoodle puppy is pretty simple to train. He loves to please his people and is smart too so it will probably go very well, even for a first-time pet parent. Potty training is first up. Then, obedience is next. Obedience training is for his safety, in part, and for your sanity as well. If he tries to do his own things, well, blame his Poodle parent. Socialization is important in training. When he is young, expose him to a number of different dogs and humans and even a few cats too. Take him to various surroundings - some which are busy and loud and others that are quiet. Be sure to include children and the elderly in his conditioning. Treats, praise, and positive tones are what motivates this dog in training. Remember that he is such a good student, he is a treasured service dog such as leading the blind. He will most likely be happy to cooperate. Tricks are on the class schedule too. You can teach him to roll over and possibly to play dead as well. This dog is lots of fun to train, especially when you get him on board and eager to learn more. Incorporating things he loves helps too. Health Goldendoodles typically enjoy a life of between years. They were bred in hopes of getting all the healthy genes from both parents and as little as possible of the inherited health issues. That is not always the case with designer dogs though. They are actually at risk for certain hereditary health problems from both sides, but at a lesser intensity than they are if they are purebred. You can ask for a hip and joint checkup and also for other health issues such as eye conditions. The best thing is prevention but if your dog already has a problem, the sooner you get him seen, the more likely it is that he will be alright. Here are some conditions to keep an eye out for: Hip Dysplasia is not uncommon in this hybrid. That is a condition where the hip joint is deformed or else can be attributed to environmental issues. The hip slips out of the socket and can be very painful, inhibiting or preventing him from walking. Vulnerable to have Elbow Dysplasia too which is the same thing but is with the elbow rather than the hip. If your Goldendoodle shows signs of this, please take him to see his veterinarian right away. Patellar Luxation is a condition in which the hind leg can slide in and out of its socket. It can be very painful and debilitating. There is surgical help for severe cases. If you note your Goldendoodle limping, favoring a leg, or seeming to be in pain, have him checked out immediately. This disease can be crippling. It is where the blood does not clot properly. Humans can have this ailment too. Ear infection plague this dog breed. Be sure to keep his ears clean and dry and if he is pulling at them, have him checked. Serious ear infections may require surgery and can lead to deafness. Progressive Retinal Atrophy is a disease that involves the deterioration of the retina and tends to take place gradually. Night blindness comes first usually or he may lose sight on and off and more so as the disease progresses. Allergies are not uncommon in Goldendoodles. He may have a sensitivity to food, the environment, or even to things he inhales. Narrowing down the source of the allergy is helpful and then solutions can be sought. It is serious and can be life-threatening. It is seen mostly in deep-chested dogs who are large in size. If they eat one large meal a day, their chances of getting this condition are increased. What happens is the dog is not able to belch when air is caught and that causes the stomach to twist. His stomach contains the extra air and his blood pressure begins to drop and continues to do so, sometimes sending him into shock. If you think your dog has this condition, call your vet immediately. There is no time to waste as this may be fatal. Hypothyroidism is a thyroid gland disorder. It is found in humans and in dogs too. The Goldendoodle has a tendency to have thyroid issues. It can be so severe it causes epilepsy. If your Goldendoodle seems quite tired and has hair loss, have him checked right away. There could be an underlying condition such as one of those above. Is a Goldendoodle Right for Me? Do you still think a Goldendoodle might be the dog for you, even after finding out more about him? Do you live in an apartment or small space dwelling? He is best in a home with a backyard or some stomping ground. It is imperative that someone be home with this type of dog much of the time or that you be willing to take him with you. Are you willing to exercise him an hour or more each day? Will you challenge him mentally and physically as well? If so, especially if you have an active lifestyle you intend to involve him in, this could very well be your dog. The Goldendoodle is a package of all things good, just waiting to be unwrapped. He s fun and friendly, smart, and is adaptable too. The best of the best of two beloved breeds have been lovingly brought together in order to bring you this fine designer dog. Check Price This one also comes in a variety of sizes, so it can work for your Goldendoodle no matter what size or age they are. The iCrate comes with single-door or double-door options, as well as a divider panel that is excellent for growing puppies. This crate is incredibly secure, as it has slide-bolt latches, rounded corners, and a durable finish. Plus, it easily folds for travel and storage. The iCrate also comes with a removable plastic tray to make for easy clean-up. However, keep in mind that the latch may be simple for your dog to figure out how to unlatch and escape from the crate. The divider panel is also known to be challenging to put in place and remove. Additional Crate Products to Purchase Now that you may have a crate purchased, you may need some additional products to give your Goldendoodle the best possible experience with it. As we mentioned throughout this article, dividers can be incredibly helpful for making your crate the correct size for your puppy as he or she is growing. The perfect divider panels ca n be found here. Check Price Dog Bed To make your dog crate as comfortable as possible for your Goldendoodle, you will want to purchase a high quality dog bed to stay inside of it, especially if you crate your dog overnight or for longer periods. Not just for comfort, this can help with their joints long term, too. While you may be tempted to just use a blanket, dogs are more likely to chew them up. Not only will you be out a blanket, but your dog will have learned a new destructive behavior. Dog beds made from tough fabric will last longer. This dog bed from MidWest Homes, found here, is the perfect option. Check Price It comes in a variety of size options, so you will be able to find the ideal choice for your fur baby. It is also machine-washable, so you will easily be able to clean it if your pup has an accident in the crate! All dogs should have space where they can feel safe, rest, and have shelter. A crate is perfect for this! It gives them somewhere to escape and relax that is entirely their own. Besides, a crate has multiple purposes that can help better serve both you and your Doodle. One way that crate training is beneficial is because it can assist with potty training by teaching your Goldendoodle to control their bladder and bowels. By nature, dogs will generally do their best not to soil the space that they sleep in. Because of this, they will want to keep their crate as clean as possible. Of course, puppies are bound to have an accident here and there. So, make sure that you stay around as often as possible when your puppy is in the crate to clean up after them. This is similar to what dogs do out in the wild, looking for a dugout or den. Goldendoodle puppies tend to chew on various objects as their teeth are growing in. When You Should Crate Now you may be wondering, when is the best time to crate train a dog? One time to keep your dog in their crate is when you are unable to supervise them. For example, if you need to do yard work, you can put your dog in his or her crate while you do so to keep them safe. Another excellent time to put your Goldendoodle in his or her crate is when they need to calm down from being too excited. Keep in mind, though, that you should not act like this is a punishment. You want to teach your dog to enjoy being in their crate — not be afraid of it. Try not to let your anger be a factor at all. Give them a toy to play with for about five minutes to calm them down, and let them out afterward to see if it helps. If not, you can repeat the process until they are calmer. A loose dog in the car can be dangerous, so keeping them in the crate can help keep them — and other passengers — safe and calm. It also will limit distractions. For more information about driving with a dog, check out this article from DogTime. Typically, Goldendoodle puppies will be energetic, and this may be overwhelming for an older dog. Having a crate can give the older dog a break and keep your puppy safe. You can alternate which dog stays in the crate until they are more used to each other. For starters, a general rule of thumb is not to leave your Goldendoodles in their crate for over five hours. The exception to this would be overnight, of course. There are a few reasons for this. Goldendoodles are an incredibly social breed and need social interaction to stay happy. If they are left in their crate for too long or too frequently, then they may begin to develop behavior issues or even depression. I know what you might be thinking at this point — what if I have to work all day? In this case, come home for lunch, if at all possible, to let your dog out for a little bit. This will just worsen their condition and make them more stressed out. They are most likely doing everything that they can to escape. If you see any of this behavior in your Goldendoodle, consult with your vet to find out what your best options are. You should also refrain from crating your Doodle if the vet tells you not to due to medical reasons, such as inflamed joints or arthritis. Overall, do your best to make the crate a positive experience for your Goldendoodle. Here are some additional steps to take before crating your dog to ensure the best possible experience: Take your dog for a walk — this helps get out their energy and release their bladder Spend time with them — Goldendoodles are very social and have a lot of energy Final Thoughts And, there you have it. Although you may have some struggles at first getting your Goldendoodle to adapt to a crate, we can almost guarantee that your Goldendoodle will end up getting accustomed to and maybe even loving! You just have to give it time and lots of patience and maybe a few treats. Best of luck! If not, wait until they are asleep and carefully move them inside. Do this a few times if you can before closing the door. If they learn this is the way to get out, then future attempts at settling them down are doomed to fail. Repeat this again and again, increasing the time they are left inside each time until they are comfortable being there all night if that is the goal. Once you have established a routine, you should stick to it — remember that dogs need consistency in their training. For further advice on potty training your pup, check out our dedicated article on this subject here. The desired outcome of crate training is that the crate becomes a place that your dog willingly chooses to go. If your dog develops negative feelings towards their crate, they will likely not overcome them. Instead, do everything in your power to ensure that crate time is a positive experience for your pet. If you use it as a type of prison whenever you want them out the way, this will not be the case. If you ever do want to use it for this reason — say you have a non-dog-loving visitor — be cunning about it. The best crate for your Goldendoodle will depend on all manner of things from their size to their sleeping preferences to their personality, not to mention how and when you plan to use it and whether you value ultimate functionality over looks or vice versa. Are Goldendoodles tough to crate train? In terms of getting your Doodle to understand what the crate is for, crate training is not difficult. Yet, prying these ultra-sociable animals from your side might be a little tougher to manage. The earlier you get to, and the more consistent you are with it, the easier it will be for both of you. In selecting a suitable crate size for your Dood, you will need to measure them head to foot and nose to tail. Then add at least four inches to allow them room to move. Which type of crate should I get for a Mini Goldendoodle? Depending on the height and weight of your Mini Goldendoodle, they will require at least a inch crate to be able to spend time comfortably inside it. For younger and mouthy dogs, wire or plastic crates will be a better option than material ones. For dogs that are happy in the crate, soft-sided crates are more attractive and functional. A crate is a great place for them to have a little alone time and can also be incredibly useful when taking your pup to the vet or otherwise out in the car. There are a few crucial things to consider when picking out the best crate for your Goldendoodle. Hopefully, the information here proves useful in helping you to do just that. What crate do you use with your Doodle? Let us know in the comments below!

Aggression towards people, other animals Hyperactivity Sadness, depression and being withdrawn Counter-surfing Digging …to name just the most common few! As previously stated, many of these are perfectly normal behaviors but unwanted when living with a human family. But some are real psychological or pathological problems that need to be properly researched and skillfully addressed, most likely by a vet or professional behaviorist. If the behavior problem is just one of normal canine behavior such as digging, barking, chasing small animals or pulling on the leash, natural behaviors but that are unacceptable or unwanted by an owner, then training alternative and acceptable behaviors in their place is the answer. This still takes knowledge of the particular cause and motivation of the behavior, knowledge and skill to choose and train an alternative behavior and patience and dedication to see the solution through. But these types of problems are solvable by the average owner and solutions for these problems will soon be appearing on this site. The sort of advice that can only really be given and be correct if offered by a qualified and knowledgeable professional. The first step is to see a vet to either identify or rule out any physical or pathological problems, and then be referred to a certified and reputable behavioral specialist. Many cases require a unique approach for which the only advice that can really be given is to seek professional help. We have to remember that Labradors were bred for a particular job and come with hard-wired instinctive and driven behaviors that we developed in them through many generations of selective breeding. Labs have needs and desires that have to be satisfied. They have traits and behaviors so deeply genetically ingrained that you simply cannot eliminate them. Although in most cases you can train alternative more acceptable behaviors. There are of course also more severe and worrying behavior problems, stemming from either pathological or deep-seated psychological issues. With understanding, patience, dedication, a caring attitude and a carefully planned scientific approach, almost all problems can be overcome or at least successfully managed. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Some may have seen i wrote a post about my muppet the other days in regards to his appalling behavior when coming inside the house. .We have tried suggestions on there and he's still mental as ever but we're trying to remain positive and patient with him. .My other issue is this behaviour is now becoming more apparent than before both inside and outside the house.He was normally quiet calm, hypo at times like any lab but was content with his surroundings and listening to us. At the moment he is completely different, he's destroying beds just lost number 4 , he's pulling washing off the line while i'm standing there hanging it out which he's never done we have it guarded off normally , he gnawing on my arms, legs, feet and even his toys are copping it surely he can't be teething at 10 months , he's jumping way more than normal, won't listen to commands which he always has listened too and feels that every time we open the door to go inside he will ignore us and come rushing in and run away so we can't put him outside. The only way we have managed to put him outside is with a treat and slowly walk with him to the door and gentle push him outside, which i feel is praising bad behaviour. Nothing different has changed in our routine, we have breafast, he gets a bone, we go for a walk in early afternoon, have a game later than afternoon then dinner around 5. He also repeated all this bad behaviour at my parents house yesterday when he too pulled washing off there line, nearly knock my father over from jumping up at him and wouldn't listen even to a deep mans voice. .He is desexed, and is getting a good decent walk everyday, only thing i can put it down to is slight separation anxiety, yet there is no whinging or crying like he has when he was a small pup, or his brain is on holidays. .Any help would be greatly appreciated. Let's Wrap This Up! Labradors mouth due to their ancestry and genetics. Having been bred to retrieve game for hunters, they naturally enjoy having things in their mouths. Dogs also mouth during instinctive play, when exploring, or relieve teething discomfort. Mouthing and play biting are not aggressive — and there is a significant difference between typical play biting and aggressive behavior. Adopt an immediate preventive training approach to prevent innate mouthing and play biting from becoming an aggression problem. But how? To stop a Labrador from mouthing, teach him his bite inhibition. This is where he learns to control the force of his mouthing. You should initiate bite inhibition when bringing your puppy home, typically around 8 weeks old. They soon realize if they bite their littermates too hard, the fun and play stop! The dam teaches good canine manners and disciplines her puppies when they bite too hard or misbehave. So how exactly do you do this? When teaching your Labrador puppy bite inhibition, make a sharp cry when he mouths or bites you and continue until he lets go. Quickly redirect the behavior using a chew toy, and reward him with a treat and lots of verbal praise. Continue to do this until your pup stops biting or learns to bite without hurting. You are undoubtedly on the right path when you first notice your Lab licking your hand instead of biting. Puppies chew to explore their new environment using their mouths, even before using their visual, auditory, and olfactory senses. They also chew to relieve pain and discomfort when teething, clean teeth, and strengthen jaws. But sometimes, chewing becomes abnormal or destructive, resulting in your Labrador destroying your couch, cushions, furniture, possessions, clothing, and shoes. Labradors engage in destructive chewing due to inadequate obedience training as a puppy, seeking attention, habit, easing hunger, boredom, lack of exercise, and insufficient mental stimulation. They also chew due to loneliness, fear, separation anxiety, malnutrition, or OCD. You will only cause your Lab to fear and resent you and cause confusion and aggression. As with the causes, the solutions for excessive-destructive chewing in your Labrador can be varied. To stop a Labrador from chewing everything, train him from an early age by redirecting his chewing to alternatives such as chew toys, treats, or bones. Fix incomplete training, or seek the help of a professional trainer. Essentially, you need to provide your Labrador with alternative chew toys that can also serve as bites. Consider these two from Amazon: KONG Puppy Toy is made from soft rubber designed for growing teeth and gums but durable enough to withstand the natural desire to chew. This multi-functional toy can be used as a fetch toy or treat-dispensing toy to stuff with delicious treats or peanut butter. It allows a good grip from the wishbone shape and lasts for weeks. You also have various sizes to choose from as your puppy grows. Here are some other helpful suggestions to stop your Labrador from chewing: Puppy-proof your home. You can use a playpen or baby gates to section off part of the house or use a long leash and keep him tied to your waist. Retrain your dog. If you think basic training was poorly done or incomplete during puppyhood, you may need to retrain your Labrador. Consider the help of a professional trainer. Give your Lab a bone to chew. Always supervise your dog when giving a bone. Feed frozen treats or ice cubes. These help your dog to find some relief from sore and painful gums. Try frozen strawberries or raspberries as an alternative healthy treat. Lots of daily exercise. Ensure your Lab has the recommended 2-hour exercise daily for an adult, which could consist of morning and evening walks or runs, and play and fun games at other times. Puppies should receive 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day. Consider health issues. Labrador puppies will generally stop chewing, due to teething, around six months of age once the discomfort has gone. Older puppies may also go through a chewing stage up to 12 months old. As long as you keep normal chewing behavior from becoming destructive, your puppy should outgrow this chewing. They are easy to train due to their intelligence, but also their desire for food or treats during training sessions makes training easy. Many owners find it tricky to keep their Lab at a healthy weight. Labradors eat so much and are highly motivated by food due to genetics, illness, lack of nutrients, boredom, or anxiety. Many are obsessed with food due to a specific mutated gene, the POMC. This gene, responsible for appetite, body fat, and weight, is commonplace in the obesity-prone Labrador. The only other breed to have this mutation is the Flat-Coated Retriever. Your Lab may also be eating so much food to relieve boredom, stress, anxiety, or due to a diet deficient in nutrients. You can learn more about separation anxiety in the next section. Furthermore, specific health issues can cause increased appetite and cause your dog to gain weight. Labradors are prone to hypothyroidism and may become obese despite normal or increased hunger. Pica is a disorder where dogs eat inedible objects such as rocks, dirt, wood, socks, toys, or even poop! It can is caused by nutritional shortcomings, starvation, or psychological issues such as anxiety, stress, attention-seeking, or OCD. If your Labrador is snacking on rocks and dirt, he may be suffering from pica. There are many ways to stop your Labrador from overeating. However, your priority is to find out why he is overeating or munching everything in sight, maybe with the help of your vet. You can then formulate a plan together. Here are some suggestions. To stop a Labrador from eating so much, feed a highly nutritious and balanced diet, keep a feeding schedule, monitor portions and weight, and feed alternative healthy treats. Dogs are creatures of habit and love routine. Stick to daily feeding times and monitor portion sizes and calories. Do not allow free feeding, and have your Lab regularly weighed. Ensure your dog is eating highly nutritious food. Ensure your dog has a good-quality nutritious diet. Check out my article on the best diet for Labradors for a ton of nutrition information, type of diet, and more. Alleviate boredom. Not only does he need lots of physical exercise, but lots of cognitive stimulation too. Lots of chew toys and interactive toys will keep your dog entertained. Feed alternative healthy treats. Many store-bought dog treats are full of calories and additives and offer little nutritional value. You can choose some good healthy treats, but fruits and vegetables are better options. Dog-proof your home. Muzzle your dog. If your Labrador tends to eat anything he finds while out on a walk, consider using a muzzle. Separation Anxiety Canine separation anxiety purely means the dog cannot cope with being apart from his owner or family. But are Labradors prone to separation anxiety? Labradors are prone to separation anxiety due to their temperament. They are social, affectionate, friendly, good-natured, and high-energy, and soon get bored. They love to be around their pack, which means you! If they are left alone for too long, they will suffer from separation anxiety. Dogs with separation anxiety will find something to relieve their fear, worry, and stress, so they often resort to destructive behavior. General symptoms are destructive chewing, house soiling, digging, escaping, destroying furniture, barking, and howling. Repetitive behavior, pacing, and self-harm may also occur. Keep departures and arrivals low-key to stop separation anxiety in your Labrador. Leave your dog in a relaxing and comfortable spot with his favorite interactive toys and chew toys. Train him using behavior modification methods such as desensitization and counter-conditioning. You should never leave your Labrador alone for longer than four hours, even less for young puppies. Consider alternatives to prevent or treat separation anxiety. Reduce the time that your Lab spends at home alone by hiring a dog sitter, walker, or professional trainer. Have friends and family call around, use local doggie-day care, and work from home if possible. This toy will keep your dog entertained and is great fun, especially when he finds the treats! Stay connected with your Lab. How cool is that? Use behavior modification techniques. Counter-condition your Lab by training him not to associate departure cues, such as the sound of your keys jingling. The aim is to teach him not to worry about your exit by associating the sound of your keys with getting a treat. Hold back on the doggie kisses and leave! Use desensitization techniques. Gradually teach your dog to cope with being alone by carefully exposing him to being alone in small steps. For example, start by making progressive departures of minutes when you leave your Labrador and progressively increase. Train your dog to be alone from an early age. I would leave my girl in her crate for a few minutes at a time at eight weeks old and gradually increase. Treat with medication. Both anti-anxiety medicine and natural supplements can help treat separation anxiety in dogs. Your vet can advise you of the best treatment plan for your dog. Labrador Urine Marking Behavior Does your Labrador stop on every street corner to pee a small amount? Spraying is instinctive dog behavior, but why do Labradors mark their territory? Dogs will leave their scent on new smells or near where other dogs have urinated. Urine communicates the reproductive status and status rank of the dog. So, why do Labradors mark their territory inside? Labradors mark their territory inside when sexually active, especially in unneutered dogs, or claim ownership of you, e. To stop your Labrador from urine marking inside, neuter while young, keep new and unfamiliar items out of reach, supervise your dog or use a crate. Increase bonding with new pets or family, eliminate anxiety, rule out other medical reasons, fully clean up the mess, and consult a canine behaviorist if needed. Thoroughly clean the areas your dog has marked using an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate the smell and prevent further scenting. Myths vs. Barking at Other Dogs Barking is a typical communication behavior in dogs, and Labradors are known to be naturally vocal. Nonetheless, when your Lab has developed an unfortunate habit of barking at other dogs, this may cause you to wonder why? Labradors bark at other dogs due to a lack of socialization and becoming fearful or anxious. Other reasons are insufficient or incomplete training, being protective or territorial of you, or generally being social or excited and wanting to greet or play, especially if under-exercised or stimulated. How to Stop Barking. Work on obedience training and positive reinforcement, allowing time, patience, and consistency. If your Labrador also lunges when barking at other dogs, use a comfortable front clip harness. It is reasonably priced, easy to fit, and comes in different colors and options. Avoid gimmicks such as bark collars and sprays designed to teach your Labrador not to bark, as these only tackle the symptom and not the cause of the problem. Rolling in Fox Poo Bathing your dog can be a challenging task. Their ancestors would disguise their scent to confuse their prey. Dogs also mark their territory by leaving their scent behind and communicating their rank or dominance to other dogs. They also enjoy leaving their smell around. Sometimes, prevention can be your best tactic! To stop a Labrador rolling in fox poo, try to prevent it by keeping him away from known areas frequented by foxes. If your dog suddenly puts his nose to the ground, anticipate he may have picked up on the strong scent of fox poo and quickly distract him away. Resource Guarding Resource guarding is when your Lab displays certain behaviors such as snarling, growling, biting, and lunging over food, favorite toys, or space, e. It is also known as c a n i n e possessive aggression , and your dog might growl at you if you go near their treasured possessions or run away with the item. Although resource guarding is natural canine behavior, it is not desirable. Some owners prefer to try and change the behavior in addition to the usual precautions of keeping people safe, especially children. Early and frequent training can help prevent resource guarding before it becomes a significant problem. Nonetheless, here are some steps to stop your Labrador from resource guarding: Consult a certified trainer or dog behaviorist. Use desensitization and counter-conditioning techniques. Instead, we try to redirect the behavior. Like all other breeds, Labradors have innate behavioral tendencies that are unique. Think of their overwhelming friendliness and easy-going nature. They are a good first dog but make a hopeless guard dog! Your Labrador will develop into the dog that you train him to be. So when socialization and training are not done correctly, behavior problems will inevitably occur. And as you saw in the video, the first one is a lack of structured exercise! Insufficient Exercise and Stimulation The Labrador Retriever is a high-energy dog requiring at least two hours of daily exercise. Leash walking alone will be insufficient. Incorporate a combination of swimming, agility, frisbee, hiking, fetch, and off-leash running in a safe area. Your dog will also need lots of cognitive stimulation and interactive play. Research has confirmed that less active dogs will demonstrate behavior problems than well-exercised canines. Genetic Disposition to Certain Behaviors It has been scientifically proven that dog behavior has both genetic and environmental key factors. This is documented in a study on the genetic examination of behavior traits in dogs whereby the German Shepherd breed was utilized. The research confirmed the theory that dog behaviors are complex traits influenced by multiple genetic and non-genetic factors. In simple terms, your dog may inherit genes that urge him to retrieve. Your Lab may inherit genes urging him to find and recover, just like his ancestors, who retrieved ducks from the hunt. He has a natural desire to bring you back things. Unfortunately, this can sometimes include dead birds or squirrels! However, this does not mean that you cannot subdue the behavior through training. Field-bred Labradors are typically higher energy and more boisterous. Another inherited attribute of the Labrador is their strong pack drive. Extremely social dogs with high pack drives tend to follow their owners everywhere, even to the bathroom! One drawback to this trait is that they may find it difficult when left in kennels for vacations. Poor Puppy Socialization Poorly socialized puppies grow into badly behaved Labradors. This is when the puppy acquires nearly all of his adult sensory, motor, and learning abilities. If a puppy is not socialized well, he will become a problematic and untrainable adult. This makes him more confident and calm than anxious and aggressive in unsocialized and poorly trained dogs. Incomplete Obedience Training Obedience training is crucial in helping your Labrador understand what you expect of him. Then, he can progress to more advanced training, such as sit-stay, wait, speak, roll-over, and other tricks. Many new dog owners believe a week or two of training after bringing their puppy home is enough. Not so! Consistency also means using the exact words to command specific behavior from your Labrador. Aversive Training Methods Punishing your Labrador to make him learn good behavior will only result in the opposite. Your best friend will be so confused and only grow to resent and fear you. They can also cause aggression and escaping behavior. Positive reinforcement, also known as reward-based training, creates the best behavior in dogs because you encourage your pet to repeat good conduct by consistently rewarding him. It simply means giving a reward to increase the frequency of response. Hormonal Effects and Neutering Testosterone is often associated with aggression in male dogs, but studies have proved mainly inconclusive. Neutering is the surgical removal of the male testes or female ovaries. Research results from a large sample of over 13, dogs show that neutering does not necessarily reduce aggression. This interesting study showed no significant increase in aggression in sterilized dogs , except for those between 7 and 12 months of age. Scientists can still not explain this. Additionally, this study discovered that other hormones cause aggression in dogs. Oxytocin a hormone associated with social bonding and sexual reproduction and Vasopressin which maintains the concentration of salts and glucose in the blood plasma and the volume of water in the fluid surrounding cells can negatively impact dog behavior. Letting Your Labrador Run The Show What if you heard a Labrador owner say his dog never badly behaves, only to discover that the owner allows the dog to have the upper hand? Would you call that a well-behaved dog? Failing to set boundaries can be another reason your Labrador has behavioral issues. Dominance aggression is when the dog will try to be the alpha or single out one particular member to dominate. I can certainly relate to this, as my dog tried for months to boss me. Although I was as firm as the male family members, she never wanted to dominate them! Spoiling your dog is one of the major factors leading to dominance aggression in dogs. Medical Conditions or Malnutrition Your Labrador may show behavior problems due to medical issues, either physical, psychological, or both. For example, dogs with obsessive-compulsive disorder OCD may show tail chasing, circling behavior, vocalization, pica, self-directed aggression, and self-mutilation through biting. In this study , the most common clinical features of OCD in dogs were self-mutilation or grooming. Other medical conditions include injury and post-operative pain, which can trigger aggressive behavior. A hungry or malnourished Labrador can also cause behavior problems such as destructive chewing. Sometimes a history of starvation experienced by rescue dogs may leave them with an eating disorder in which they seek nourishment from non-food items known as pica. Owning a Labrador Retriever is exciting and rewarding for most owners. However, behavior problems associated with the breed can sometimes make it a challenge. What is most encouraging is knowing that you can manage these behavior problems. Exercise, training, eliminating triggers, and seeking a canine behaviorist are helpful and constructive ways to help your Labrador overcome his behavior shortcomings. You must practice patience and consistency every day and work at it. Good luck! When learning how to decipher the different types of dog speak, you need to understand why your Labrador is barking so much. Labradors bark for many reasons, including alerting you of danger, such as a stranger. Here are some examples: A warning or alert bark will be quick and sharp and may become more intense. A Labrador demanding something such as food or attention will have a piercing and persistent bark directed at you. A bored dog will have a repetitive monotone bark. A Labrador suffering from distress such as separation anxiety, or panic, will have a high-pitched and highly repetitive bark. As the dog gets more stressed, the barking may become even higher pitched or howling. A fearful or suspicious bark will be fast and low. A playful bark will be high-pitched, more tonal, and modulated. Labradors are creatures of habit, thrive on routine, and are one smart cookie. So, if your Lab constantly barks at you, you may wonder why? Your Labrador will bark at you demand barking to communicate various things to you, especially when he wants to get your attention or get something specific from you, such as food, play, or to go outside. Dogs soon learn that they can get what they want, mainly if you usually give in. The secret is to try and understand why your dog is barking in the first place and prevent it from occurring, for example, by ensuring he is sufficiently exercised. When your Labrador barks at you, and notably, if he also stares at you — this is known as demand barking. He will eventually learn that when he is calm, he receives something positive. Is your dog keeping you awake at night? Other than occasionally needing a toilet break or if he is ill or in pain, if this has become a regular occurrence, you will want to put a stop to it — quickly! So, why does your Labrador bark overnight? Your Labrador might bark at night to alert you of a danger or if he is anxious, fearful, or purely wants attention. Here are some tips to prevent your Labrador from barking at night: Use a crate from the first night you bring your dog home. Choose something like the all-inclusive Midwest for Pets icrate from Amazon. It comes with everything you need, such as a divider and a removable wipe-clean tray. This one also gives you the option of a single or double door, which is handy. But should you let your Labrador Puppy sleep with you? You have to ignore him. It can be hard to do this on the first night you bring your new puppy home, but you will undoubtedly thank me for this advice! Ensure your dog is comfortable whether you leave him in a bed or crate. Have water and toys handy. Make sure your Labrador has been exercised enough throughout the day. Most well-exercised dogs are desperate to go to bed at night to enjoy a sound sleep! Why Do Labradors Howl? Most people will associate howling with the wolf-like Siberian Husky. But did you know your Labrador also manifests this wolf-ancestry behavior once in a while? Labradors howl for many reasons, such as to warn you about a danger they can sense or respond to another howling dog in the neighborhood. They may also howl when reacting to high-pitched sounds such as sirens or music, seeking attention, if in pain or distress, or if suffering from separation anxiety. Usually, howling is a form of communication that dogs use outside their usual barking, groaning, or whining. Unless it is incessant, you have a normal dog. If your Labrador is howling to get your attention, treat this behavior similarly to demand barking. You need to ignore him and teach him that howling at you will not work. When he goes quiet and stops howling for a few seconds, use positive reinforcement, such as treats, and toys, with lots of verbal praise. Why Do Labradors Whine? Have you ever taken your dog on a car trip and heard the most horrendous whining as you park up somewhere? You may wonder why your Labrador is whining. Consult your vet if stress and anxiety have become an issue for your dog, as anti-anxiety medication may help. Separation anxiety. Treatments include counterconditioning that focuses on developing an association between being alone and good things, like treats. Desensitizing techniques can also help, along with medication. Again, consult your vet or a professional animal behaviorist. Attention-seeking whining is similar to demand barking, as mentioned in the section above. You will need to teach your Labrador that remaining quiet will lead to a more positive outcome. Appeasement whining is normal canine behavior and occurs when your dog tries to appease people or other dogs when they perceive aggression or a threat. Never yell or physically punish your Lab, which only causes fear and resentment. Why Do Labradors Groan? My dog will often groan with pleasure after eating a meal and flopping down with a full belly! Sometimes, it can be really amusing. But why does your Labrador groan? Medical reasons can also be the cause, e. Behavioral groaning is of no concern and is normal canine behavior. However, consult your vet if you suspect your Lab is groaning due to a medical reason. Labrador Retriever behavior consisting of lying or sitting on your feet can be cute — but sometimes annoying! So what exactly does it mean? When your Labrador lays on your feet, it can mean a few things, such as seeking and offering protection, wanting attention, or initiating play. Other reasons are to seek or show affection, feel warm and cozy, or mark his territory by spreading his scent on you. Here are a few examples of why your Labrador may lay on your feet, sit on your feet, or even lay on you! Seek and offer protection. Your Labrador will lay at your feet to feel safe and offer you protection simultaneously. Among pack dogs, the alpha has a prominent position. So, laying at your feet shows that he recognizes you as the alpha. But he also feels safe and secure alongside you. To seek attention or initiate play. Seek and show affection. Your Labrador may lay on your feet or sit on you to seek affection or show you their devotion. Labs are very affectionate and friendly, have a warm temperament, and love to cuddle. For warmth. Have you ever wondered why pack dogs would lie close together, especially in cold weather? Most pack dogs would lie close to each other to keep warm. Territory marking. Your Labrador will communicate that he belongs to you by spreading his scent on you. So, laying or sitting on your feet, lap, or belly whenever you sit or lie down is his way of labeling you with his scent. A study of 32 dogs showed that dogs preferred to be closer to pleasant people. You may wonder why your Lab will circle his bed, an area of the carpet or rug before lying down. Dogs may also assess their laying spot for anything harmful, such as vermin, or could cause them injuries before making a comfy nest. Despite centuries of domestication, there is little scientific data to prove the above — except for the belief that dogs circle before lying down to make a comfy nest. This small study of 62 dogs suggested that dogs are more likely to circle before lying down when presented with a soft, uneven surface to make a temporary nest to sleep. OCD is a psychological condition that often has a genetic tendency. Stricken dogs will repeatedly perform normal canine behavior and often fail to respond to therapy. Dogs worried about predators and protected their bellies by sleeping on them in the wild. Sleeping belly-down also allowed them to get up quickly if needed. So why do Labradors sometimes sleep on their back? Labradors sleep on their back with their paws in the air to cool down or when they feel very relaxed with their environment and are at ease exposing their belly. This shift is the result of hundreds of years of dog domestication. One of the cutest sleeping positions of puppies is when they sleep upside down — they are just more comfortable sleeping on their backs! Adult Labradors that sleep on their back for a while are also adorable. They are trusting of you and will no doubt sleep anywhere. Labradors may roll on their back for many different reasons. This dog behavior might occur when your Lab is alone, playing with you, or when with other dogs. Labradors roll on their back when seeking attention from you, e. Or to groom or scratch themselves, mark territory, change their body smell getting rid of a shampoo aroma , show confidence or contentment, or regulate body temperature. A roll on the back is often interpreted as being submissive during dog play. However, research has shown that rolling on the back is a combat tactic, not an act of submission. Your Labrador may roll over when playing with other dogs for two key reasons: To avoid a bite on the side of the neck be defensive. To launch an attack be offensive. Labradors will often roll over to scratch their back — since they cannot reach it with their paws! This could be normal scratching, but it could also be due to a flea or tick infestation. How To Solve Scratching! Labs will roll on their back to get a rub or tickle on their tummy when playing. So, avoid it if you do not want him to always ask for it! Your dog may also roll on his back to cool down. Why Do Labradors Roll in Poop? This is one of the weird dog behaviors that we find a little difficult to understand — rolling in stinky things, such as fox and badger feces or bird droppings! Some dogs love to cover themselves in foul smells that leave you spluttering in disgust. So, why do Labradors roll in poop? Dogs like pungent scents, and they encourage rolling action. Wild dogs had to hunt to survive. Your Labrador is leaving his scent behind. Your dog might be trying to leave his scent, similar to marking or spraying behavior. Your dog is interacting with you, his pack! Other packmates would track the scent back in the wild, which helped with their hunting. So, now you know why your Labrador rolls in poop, how do you prevent him from returning with a foul, pungent stench? When out on a walk with your dog, stay alert and limit his poo-rolling activities. Learn to anticipate it right before it begins. If I notice my dog sniffing or tracking the ground with greater intensity, I know she can smell the strong scent of the fox. Excitement urination is mainly associated with puppies, and most dogs will grow out of this behavior. But why do Labs pee when excited? Labradors pee when excited due to becoming exceptionally excited during greetings and playtime. Other causes are incomplete housetraining, accidental reinforcement, genetic predisposition, or a medical condition such as urinary bladder dysfunction or incontinence in elderly dogs. I have a complete guide to potty training your Labrador if you need any help in that department. Once you have ruled out medical causes, there are some things you can do to prevent your Labrador from peeing when excited: Keep greetings low-key; stay calm and quiet. Greet your puppy outside when you return home. Take him outside to potty, and use positive reinforcement. Clean up the mess with an enzymatic cleaner. This is when dogs will pee to mark their territory. Do you find it funny when your Labrador chases his tail? Labrador Retrievers are high-energy dogs, and most behavioral issues stem from monotony and insufficient exercise. Healthy adult dogs need at least two hours of daily activity, consisting of various walking, off-leash running, fetch, frisbee, agility, or swimming — Labs love to swim! If you laugh every time your Labrador chases his tail, you inadvertently reinforce his attention-seeking behavior. Labs are eager to please you, and your encouragement acts as positive reinforcement. He will, therefore, keep doing it, especially if he needs you to notice him! Has your Labrador been keeping an eye on you? Do you sense him intently staring at you from the corner of the room? Some stares may be cute, others not so. Your Labrador stares at you to communicate with you. Examples are expressing love and devotion, seeking attention, or manipulating you to get what he wants, such as food or playtime. He may also stare at you to communicate displeasure, sense your mood, or when resource guarding. Here are some examples: Seek Attention. Labradors will stare at you to seek your attention. His stare serves to remind you that he needs his meal too! Manipulate you to get something. When your Lab stares at you with eyes of pity, he wants you to concede and let him have his way! My dog will sit in front of me every evening and intensely stare when she wants me to play. In the wolf world, staring is rude and threatening, and some dogs may retain that trait. So, if your dog stares at you intensely, without blinking, and has a stiff stance, he might be communicating some displeasure. And if the uninterrupted hard stare is directed towards a stranger, they should back away and not stare back! Resource guarding. This is often combined with a hard, aggressive stare where your Lab will guard his food or toys. Resource guarding is a behavior problem, and you may need to consult a professional dog behaviorist. Check out this article for greater insight into this topic, Resource Guarding in Labradors. Final Thoughts As you have now learned, there are many Labrador behaviors. Most are entirely natural and designed to seek attention, protect, show dominance or defensiveness, express feelings, show affection, or mark territory. However, some dog behaviors may be a sign of an underlying medical issue. But you should now be able to identify those concerning ones where you should visit your vet. Related Posts You May Like:. Of course, it all happens much faster in them though, because they pack it all into and average of just 12 or 13 years. Between 6 and 12 months old, they will enter adolescence. At a year old, they are a mature adolescent. Sometime between 2 and 3 years old they become physically and mentally mature. And at 9 years old, they start to become seniors. Labrador behavior by age: the first 6 months Infant Labradors are champion nappers, attached to their primary carer to the point of clinginess, playful, and impulsive. Sleep patterns Young Labrador puppies are growing and learning fast, and they need a lot of sleep to support their development. So, they make up for it by napping frequently during the day. Which is alright for them, even though it can be cripplingly tiring for us! But hang in there — most puppies are sleeping through the night at 14 weeks old. After that they will gradually start waking earlier in the morning too. There is a double whammy of reasons for this. Firstly, they are instinctively aware that they are still too small and vulnerable to survive alone. Secondly, Labradors have been bred over many generations to be innately people-focussed, since dogs who were naturally motivated to remain close to their owners made better workers. Playfulness Labrador puppies spend more time playing than at any other time in their lives. But lots of first time puppy parents are taken aback by exactly how ferocious puppy play behavior can be! Barking, growling, lunging, pouncing, and biting are all completely normal elements of puppy play. In the wild, they would be valuable practice for hunting in future, and the natural instinct to start practicing early lives on, even this long after domestication. Impulsiveness Puppies of all types are generally a chaotic presence. They have very little impulse control, so they rarely sit still for long, and they cannot resist temptation. Make sure those shoes are kept out of reach in the first place, and give your puppy plenty of suitable toys instead. The sweet spot There is a point when a Labrador puppy is roughly akin to an 8 year old child. They sleep well, use the toilet in the right place, understand instructions, and hang off your every word. A whole new stage of Labrador behavior is coming! If we think of it in terms of their wild ancestors again, they are no longer so vulnerable and reliant on the protection of adults around them. And time to start thinking for themselves, in anticipation of being an self-sufficient adult soon. You might start to discover that the little puppy who never left your side off the leash will suddenly cross soccer fields to say hello to another dog. These are all normal parts of growing up. During this stage, you need to protect your cues by not using them when your dog is likely to ignore you, and manage their opportunities to make unwanted decisions instead. For example, by using a long line, or exercising them in a secure field. Adolescence is also associated with the onset of sex differences in behavior. For example, unneutered male dogs tend to carry out more scent marking than either spayed or intact females, or neutered males. And unspayed female dogs will start going into heat every 6 months or so. As they become more independent, and stop relying on others to look out for them, they instinctively become more cautious about new and unfamiliar things as well. If this happens, the key is not to push them to handle more than they are comfortable with — given them space, and and gradually restore they emotional response to a positive one using treats. Labrador behavior by age: adulthood By the time your Labrador is 2 or 3 years old, their physical and emotional journey to adulthood is complete. Hopefully, if you socialized them carefully as a puppy, and trained them consistently until now, they have become all the things you dreamed of. And at last, they have reached a point where if you treat them consistently, their behavior will remain consistent too. The Labrador breed is famous for being friendly and easy company. They are exceptional at learning and remembering new cues, and famously food motivated, so teaching and maintaining good manners should be straightforward. But without enough exercise they might resort to unwanted behaviors such as chewing furniture, barking or digging in the garden. Factors which will affect the behavior of your mature adult Labrador include: The temperament of their parents Socialization they received as a puppy Training How much physical exercise they get How much mental stimulation they receive Diet How much time they spend alone Health factors Positive and negative experiences An example of how health factors and experience can affect behavior is if a Lab experiencing joint pain from hip dysplasia is jumped on by a playful younger dog. This could make them reactive towards encounters with other dogs in future, because they want to warn off another potentially painful experience. Labrador behavior by age: the senior years In veterinary terms, Labradors are considered senior from roughly 9 years old onwards. However, many Labs remain active long past this point. The average retirement age of Labradors working as gundogs is 10 years old , and this is more likely to be due to physical factors such as arthritis or deafness than not being mentally up to the job any more. But, old age is associated with a broad range of physical changes, and increased likelihood of illnesses, many of which can cause behavior changes. For example Senior dogs are more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes , and are less able to fight off infections like UTIs. Which means their toilet habits might change, including needing to get up in the night to pee again. Sensory changes such as sight and hearing loss mean they might become less responsive to your cues, or less confident in unfamiliar situations. Physical changes like loss of muscle mass and degeneration of their joints means they might slow down, and be less interested in things they used to enjoy, like walks or playing fetch. The older they get, the more likely dogs are to show signs of canine cognitive dysfunction CCD , which his akin to dementia in humans. CCD may include behavior changes such as night waking, forgetfulness, and becoming disorientated. Take your senior dog for regular veterinary checks to help manage these changes, and for practical advice on making their golden years as comfortable as possible. Labrador behavior by age — summary Labrador behavior by age can be viewed in terms of four distinct periods — puppyhood, adolescence, adulthood and senior years. Adulthood is the easiest, and thankfully the longest too! Whilst all the other stages present their own unique challenges, they are just that — stages, which will pass. Knowing what to expect makes them easier to manage, and realizing they are transient helps us appreciate the privilege of spending a lifetime with our Labs. Have you got any tips for surviving the puppy and adolescent stages? In general, she's a great dog. Very sweet and smart, but for some reason over the past few weeks she seems to be testing the limits more than usual. I know about the adolescent phase they supposedly hit around months, but it's almost like she is hitting hers now. For example, yesterday I worked a half a day at the office. Usually when we leave her alone for that amount of time, we close the bedroom and bathroom doors and she has the rest of the house to wander around in, and she's always done just great with this. Yesterday I came home to find she had chewed up the arm of the couch. She also seems to be "listening" less.She gets plenty of attention, walks, exercise, etc. I'm hoping it's a late adolescence phase, as everyone tells us that labs stay in the puppy phase for a good two years.We are going to put her in doggy-day-care one or two days a week, hoping that will help with some of the excess energy she seems to have found lately. Think that might help? Yep, this sounds like the classic case of "the terrible twos" human children aren't the only critters to go through this phase. As to the chewing up of your sofa, that sounds to me like it might be a case of separation anxiety. Perfectly normal dogs that behave very well when at home with their owners suddenly become destructive when left alone. This is not a behavioral condition that is isolated to just labs either. It is good that you keep your bedroom and bathroom doors closed. Before I learned that lesson my mastiff puppy used to pull my clothes off the hangers in my closet and then dragged them around the house when I was not around. To keep my puppies from chewing my furniture I mix equal parts of alum and white vinegar together and covered my wood furniture with the solution. Even after it dries the alum remains. It is not toxic to dogs, cats, or children. If they lick the surface where it has been applied, it will leave a very sour taste in their mouth which most dogs do not like. Taking her to a day-care a couple times a week will certainly help. Buying her a few extra toys to play with may also help her with the separation anxiety, but not always. Most dogs get over this phase by the time they are two years old. Males may take a little longer than females to get over it because they mature slower.

We will be happy to recommend you to all our friends and family. .The treats and the stuffed animals he loved it all! He normally doesn't pick a favorite toy but the one toy he got from his box is now his favorite A. The Cinco De Mayo theme was a fun great first box. Dogs loved the toys and the treats. Ebony D. Love it "Thank so much to PoochPerks for the treat box! Jinxy and Popeye can't get enough! Miriam DiazLongtime Subscriber We had a subscription to BarkBox but my miniature dachshund didn't ever like the treats. Also most the toys were too big for her and she just didn't love them. She does love getting the box in the mail so I went out looking for something else. She literally won't stop playing with them and brings one of them with her even to go potty! The option for no treats and mini plush toys made all the difference! Hope it continues!!! Michelle S. Love it!!! Thanks Pooch perks my Lucia and Piper love it! MarciPooch Perks Lover Why Pooch Perks Stands out We hand select the products in our themed boxes from many different vendors which allows for a variety of items in our boxes. At Pooch Perks, we offer a monthly dog box that gives your furry canine friend something new to enjoy every month. Customize Your Box While our team designs the dog boxes each month around a specific theme, there are customization options available. Choose from a mix of toys and treats or a box that contains toys only, making it the perfect gift for dogs with food sensitivities. We take great pride in curating a fun monthly dog subscription box every month so you and your pooch both look forward to what may arrive. Choose the perfect monthly dog box for your furry family member today! Design: Liked the theme and the toys were definitely durable. Health: Treats were made in the U. I mean, I love celebrating Halloween early as much as the next person, but in March? Mostly I was just weirded out by feeling like I'd been sent a Halloween box in March? Happy early Halloween, y'all! But in addition to that, everything in the box felt extremely high quality. Design: Both dog toys here felt very high-end and durable. Neither one was hideous, and I liked that there was a subtle St. I also loved that the rope toy is created through Fundacion Mitz which gives jobs to women in vulnerable communities. Health: I appreciated that the Loving Pets treats were made in the U. Customer Experience: I canceled my subscription via email, and it was easy. The customer service representative was pleasant and I liked that I got an email warning me that my subscription was renewing before I was out of the cancellation window. Summary: I was skeptical of this box going in because subscribing on the Greater Good site felt a little jenky, but I was actually really wow-ed by the quality of the items in the box and the value. I loved the products, and loved even more knowing that my purchase was feeding shelter animals. And our pick for the best Dog subscription box is… Okay, I lied. I love that it gives back, and everything in it felt really high-quality and thoughtfully-curated. I loved seeing a Fair Trade toy in the box, too. It felt good to buy an indulgent treat for our pups that also helped pups in need. Thanks for reading! Pin It The Dapple sometimes receives a small affiliate income when you shop using links featured on our site. Never Miss a Pupdate Sign up with your email address to receive news and updates. Email Address. Directly supports hungry shelter animals Gives you a premium assortment of products Still affordable considering the included donation Cons Subscription doesn't accommodate food allergies Why It Made the List Anyone who has a rescue or simply loves dogs is sure to appreciate The Animal Rescue Site's subscription box. RescueBox lets you spoil your dog every month while supporting a good cause in the process. With every RescueBox, you'll be sent five premium products, and The Animal Rescue Site will provide dozens of meals to homeless pets and shelter animals through its charitable partners located in the U. If you've been on the fence about splurging on a monthly dog subscription, RescueBox gives you the perfect excuse to do so. Subscriptions for small, medium, and large dogs are all the same price and include the same number of products. No other customizations can be made beyond dog size, but the treats, chews, and toys you receive are always carefully selected by a team of pet experts. The products also follow a monthly theme, so your dog will get to enjoy an exciting variety of high-quality goodies, and you'll feel good knowing that your subscription is helping pets in need. Yes Products Include: Treats, toys, and chews Final Thoughts If you want convenient monthly deliveries of different toys and treats for a price that doesn't make you think twice about spoiling your dog, a subscription to BarkBox gets you the most bark for your buck. Some subscriptions let you customize your plan based on your dog's needs and preferences, while others have experts that curate an assortment of goodies based on a new theme; BarkBox does both. You can expect a fun-themed variety of premium toys every month but can also customize your plan to your dog. Upgrading your plan to accommodate another dog or one who just goes through toys fast will increase your bill but will also qualify you for free shipping. It can be hard guessing whether or not your dog will like something you order online, but all BarkBox plans have a percent satisfaction guarantee. Free shipping isn't always included, but when it's not, you can often qualify for it by adding extra products to your order. None of the subscriptions on this list require committing to a certain number of boxes, though most plans are automatically set up for either 12 months or four quarters of recurring deliveries. You're always free to cancel whenever you want, and you never have to pay the cost of the entire subscription period upfront if you prefer month-to-month payments. Chewy's Goody Box is the only exception because unless you set up recurring shipping at checkout, every box must be ordered individually. Most dog subscription boxes contain bundles of both food and non-food items, but Pooch Perks , Bullymake , and Pet Treater let you adjust your plan to receive only toys. However, if accessories are the non-food item you prefer, BoxDog is the best option. While the subscription does include treats and toys, it also sends skin care products and lets you pick out accessories every month. The same applies to Bark Bright , which will supply you with a monthly supply of toothpaste and chews. Methodology To find the best dog subscription boxes, our team reviewed nearly two dozen services, evaluating each one on the following criteria: Average price Number of items per box Variety of products.

We recommend that you keep your pet in ideal body condition and not allow them to become overweight. The amount of food your pet needs can vary based on age, activity level or other food and treats given, so be sure to work with your veterinarian to determine an appropriate weight for your pet, and to make any necessary adjustments to their feeding. These highly intelligent and playful puppies have big nutritional needs as they develop into faithful watchdogs. They can benefit from the right large breed growth formula to provide immune system support and bone and joint health—as well as support digestive health—all of which is important for the breed during puppyhood. Royal Canin German Shepherd dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed puppy. Whether you call them a German Shepherd or an Alsatian, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated to your puppy, with the specific nutrients to help them thrive. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune system and keeps their body growing strong. Highly digestible proteins and specific fibers maintain digestive health since this breed has a tendency to have poor stool quality. And glucosamine and chondroitin support healthy bones and joints as your puppy grows to be a big dog. Once your German Shepherd puppy is over 15 months old, transition them to Royal Canin German Shepherd Adult dog food for precise nutrition into their adult years. Not satisfied? Then neither are we. Just contact us for more details. Link text Product description The German Shepherd is a noble breed that is remarkably versatile. Its strong muscles, developed chest and powerful mobility combine with its natural love of working to make this a brilliantly useful breed, whether as a guide dog, rescue dog, police dog or guard dog. In order to be well prepared for an active life full of responsibility, optimal nutrition such as Royal Canin German Shepherd Puppy is essential from a very young age. Royal Canin German Shepherd Puppy offers your dog a special recipe during this sensitive initial growth phase. The dry food contains a patented antioxidant complex that can help support bodily defences. It also contains valuable digestible proteins and prebiotics, which support healthy digestion and balanced gut flora, as well as improving stool quality. Glucosamine, chondroitin and a special combination of omega-3 fatty acids support optimum growth, strong joints and healthy bone development. Technological additives: Clinoptilolite from sedimentary sources 10g. Sensory additives:. This may vary depending on availability, payment method, location and other factors beyond our control. Close Additional shipping costs may apply. Product description Exclusive dry dog food for German Shepherd puppies up to 15 months, with a patented antioxidant complex and vitamin E, along with highly-digestible proteins and prebiotics, omega-3 fatty acids. The German Shepherd is a noble breed that is remarkably versatile. Its strong muscles, developed chest and powerful mobility combine with its natural love of working to make this a brilliantly useful breed, whether as a guide dog, rescue dog, police dog or guard dog. In order to be well prepared for an active life full of responsibility, optimal nutrition such as Royal Canin German Shepherd Puppy is essential from a very young age. Royal Canin German Shepherd Puppy offers your dog a special recipe during this sensitive initial growth phase. The dry food contains an antioxidant complex that can help support bodily defences. It also contains valuable digestible proteins and prebiotics, which support healthy digestion and balanced gut flora, as well as improving stool quality. Glucosamine, chondroitin and a special combination of omega-3 fatty acids supports optimum growth, strong joints and healthy bone development. Royal Canin German Shepherd Puppy at a glance: High-quality dry food for German Shepherd puppies up to 15 months For a great start in life: An exclusive recipe for German Shepherd puppies, helping to support the immune system, digestion, bones and joints High digestibility: highly digestible L. This means that Royal Canin offers your dog high-quality, balanced nutrition. You can find more information about wet food under the following link:.