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So you need to make an informed decision about whether or not this breed is right for you. There are many other factors that go into the expense of Frenchies. A female delivers 1—3 puppies per birth and because of this, there is a shortage of new Frenchies. Black is a classic color for Frenchies. Brindle representatives of the breed of no particular color variety have captured the hearts of owners. Chocolate bulldogs have a beautiful dark-brown coat. An Isabella Frenchie has a unique light brown appearance. The merle French bulldog is as popular as always. A lilac dog looks like a little cloud with legs. White representative of the breed looks fantastic but you need to be ok with all the bathing. The blue Frenchie always looks great. There were a lot of debates on the purebred nature of them but recent advances in genetic testing have been able to certify that no funny business took place. Fluffy bulldogs can occur in all kinds of different colors and can be registered with the AKC. The prices are astronomical! Breeders see that as an investment because later you can get new puppies and sell them. But the risk is very high because something can happen to your dog or something can happen to its puppies. User Manuals. Interested in French Bulldogs? Hover over the Breed Info tab at the top of this page to learn all about the breed. French Bulldogs have had a remarkable rise. Frenchies ousted Labrador retrievers from the top spot after a record 31 years. The British Veterinary Association has urged people not to buy flat-faced breeds, such as Frenchies. She has treated French bulldogs with breathing difficulties, and she stresses that would-be owners need to research breeders and health testing and to recognize that problems can be expensive to treat. She owns two and has conditioned them to run agility courses and take hilly hikes. The stats are based on nearly , puppies and other dogs newly registered last year — about 1 in every 7 of them a Frenchie. Registration is voluntary. The most rarely owned? English foxhounds. With roots in England and then France, French bulldogs became chic among American elites around the turn of the 20th century, then faded from favor. That changed, rapidly , in this century. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez gave the dogs fresh exposure. Still more came last year, when U. Last year, about , newly registered French bulldogs surpassed Labs by over 21, As a longtime breeder and a veterinarian, Dr. The Westlake , Ohio-based vet has seen plenty of Frenchies with problems but rejects arguments that the breed is inherently unhealthy. Some of her own do canine performance sports. Some other breeds are prone to ailments ranging from hip dysplasia to cancers, and mixed-breed dogs also can get sick. Lori Teller says. To animal rights and welfare activists, the French bulldog frenzy puts a snorting, panting face on problems with dog breeding in general. A new breathing test made its U. Sign up today. Most popular in Success articles. Dog domestic dog The Bulldog is a British breed of dog of mastiff type. It may also be known as the English Bulldog or British Bulldog. It is a medium-sized, muscular dog of around 40—55 lb 18—25 kg. They have large heads with thick folds of skin around the face and shoulders, and a relatively flat face with a protruding lower jaw. The breed has significant health issues as a consequence of breeding for its distinctive appearance, including brachycephalia , hip dysplasia , heat sensitivity, and skin infections. Due to concerns about their quality of life, breeding Bulldogs is illegal in Norway and the Netherlands. The modern Bulldog was bred as a companion dog from the Old English Bulldog , a now-extinct breed used for bull-baiting , when the sport was outlawed in England under the Cruelty to Animals Act. While often used as a symbol of ferocity and courage, modern Bulldogs are generally friendly, amiable dogs. Bulldogs are now commonly kept as pets; in it was in twelfth place on a list of the breeds most frequently registered worldwide. The first reference to the word "Bulldog" is dated or in a letter by a man named Preswick Eaton where he writes: "procuer mee two good Bulldogs, and let them be sent by ye first shipp". This entailed the setting of dogs after placing wagers on each dog onto a tethered bull. The dog that grabbed the bull by the nose and pinned it to the ground would be the victor. It was common for a bull to maim or kill several dogs at such an event, either by goring, tossing, or trampling over them. Over the centuries, dogs used for bull-baiting developed the stocky bodies and massive heads and jaws that typify the breed, as well as a ferocious and savage temperament. Bull-baiting was made illegal in England by the Cruelty to Animals Act .However, emigrants did have a use for such dogs in the New World. In midth century New York, Bulldogs were used as a part of a citywide roundup effort led by Governor Richard Nicolls. Because cornering and leading wild bulls was dangerous, Bulldogs were trained to seize a bull by its nose long enough for a rope to be secured around its neck. Rockstro founded the first Bulldog Club. Three years after its opening the Club ceased to exist, not having organized a single show. Samuel Wickens, treasurer of the club, published this description in under the pseudonym Philo-Kuan. The first English Bulldog entered into the register was a male dog named Adam Adamo , born in .The founders of the club collected all available information about the breed and its best representatives and developed a new standard for the English Bulldog, which was published on 27 May , the same year they held the first breed show. Since , exhibitions of the club were held annually, except during the Second World War. On 17 May , the Bulldog Club was granted the status of a corporation and since then has carried the official name "The Bulldog Club, Inc. It is the oldest mono-breed dog kennel club in the world. King Orry was reminiscent of the original Bulldogs, lighter boned and very athletic. Dock Leaf was smaller and heavier set, more like modern Bulldogs. King Orry was declared the winner that year, finishing the mile 32 km walk while Dock Leaf collapsed and expired. Although not as physically capable as their ancestors, modern Bulldogs are much calmer and less aggressive. Note the "rope" over the nose, and pronounced underbite Bulldogs have characteristically wide heads and shoulders along with a pronounced mandibular prognathism. There are generally thick folds of skin on the brow; round, black, wide-set eyes; a short muzzle with characteristic folds called a rope or nose roll above the nose; hanging skin under the neck; drooping lips and pointed teeth, and an underbite with an upturned jaw. The coat is short, flat, and sleek with colours of red, fawn, white, brindle , and piebald. In the United Kingdom, the breed standards are 55 lb 25 kg for a male and 50 lb 23 kg for a female. These attributes should be countenanced by the expression and behavior". Bulldogs are recognized as excellent family pets because of their tendency to form strong bonds with children. At five to six years old, they start to show signs of aging. Those that died of old age had an average lifespan of 10 to 11 years. Left to right, the skulls are from approximately the s, s, and s. A study by the Royal Veterinary College found that Bulldogs are a much less healthy breed than average, with over twice the odds of being diagnosed with at least one of the common dog disorders investigated in the study. A degree of BOAS has been normalized in the breed, as an inevitable consequence of their distinctive face. Since dogs regulate heat primarily by panting, Bulldogs are very sensitive to heat; they may actually gain rather than lose heat due to their inefficient breathing, leading to a vicious cycle. Bulldogs must be given plenty of shade and water, and must be kept out of standing heat. If not properly exercised it is possible for a Bulldog to become overweight, which could lead to heart and lung problems, as well as stress on the joints. These cause the dog some discomfort, but are treatable either by vet or an experienced owner. Other problems can include cherry eye , a protrusion of the inner eyelid which can be corrected by a veterinarian , allergies , and hip issues in older Bulldogs. Due to the high volume of skin folds on the Bulldog's body, they have high prevalence of skin-fold dermatitis. Opposed by the British Bulldog Breed Council, it was speculated by the press that the changes would lead to a smaller head, fewer skin folds, a longer muzzle, and a taller thinner posture, in order to combat problems with respiration and breeding due to head size and width of shoulders. Among these is a fitness test where the dog has to walk 1 km 0. Its temperature and heart rate has to recover after 15 minutes. They are often used as mascots by universities, sports team, and other organizations. English Bulldog Companion Dog Group The goals and purposes of this breed standard include: to furnish guidelines for breeders who wish to maintain the quality of their breed and to improve it; to advance this breed to a state of similarity throughout the world; and to act as a guide for judges. Breeders and judges have the responsibility to avoid any conditions or exaggerations that are detrimental to the health, welfare, essence and soundness of this breed, and must take the responsibility to see that these are not perpetuated. After bull-baiting was banned by the English Parliament in , the English Bulldog eventually developed into a shorter-legged, thicker, companion version of its working predecessors. Bulldogs that are made to be massive, with excessive nose wrinkle, and muzzles of insufficient length, are unfit for an active, healthy lifestyle. For this reason, English Bulldogs of moderation are preferred. History The English Bulldog of today would not be recognized by fanciers of the earliest dogs of the breed. Those early dogs had a specific use, that of bull holding, which was a legitimate part of the butcher's business. Unfortunately, this also developed into the grisly sport of bull baiting, and they were also pitted against other animals, as well as their own kind. The Bulldog eventually developed into a shorter, squattier version of its progenitors, as that is what was preferred in the show ring. Regardless, the Bulldog has endeared itself to many because of its loving, gentle temperament. General Appearance The ideal English Bulldog is a medium size, short coated dog with a thick body that is wide and heavy in the shoulders and lighter in the hindquarters. When viewed from above, outline should be a pear shape. He is powerful and compact, with a head that is fairly large, short and broad in proportion to the size of the dog. General appearance, coupled with attitude, suggests great stability, vigor and strength. The dog appears fit and capable of great athleticism. When comparing both sexes, due consideration is to be given to females as they do not bear the breed characteristics to the same degree as the males. All points of the standard are well distributed and bear good relation one to the other. Disqualifications: Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid. Characteristics The English Bulldog has an equable and kind disposition; and is resolute and courageous. The characteristic demeanor is one of peace and dignity. These attributes are evident in the expression and behavior of the breed. Disqualifications: Viciousness or extreme shyness. Head When viewed from the front, the head is broad and square. In profile, the head appears high and moderately short from the occiput to the point of the nose. The forehead is flat, never rounded or domed; and never too prominent nor overhanging the face. The well-defined temples frontal bones are broad, square and high, causing a deep furrow that extends from the stop to the middle of the skull. The stop is a deep, wide indentation between the eyes. The well-rounded cheeks protrude sideways and outward beyond the eyes. SKULL The skull is relatively large in circumference, and appears high from the corner of the lower jaw to the apex of the skull. The muzzle is turned slightly upward and is very deep from the corner of the eye to the corner of the mouth. The distance from the bottom of the stop between the eyes to the tip of the nose should not be less than the distance measured from the tip of the nose to the edge of the under lip. The jaws are broad and very square. Jaws should not be wry. The thick, broad, pendant flews, referred to as the "chops", are very deep. They completely overhang the lower jaw at each side. In front, they join the under lip, covering the teeth, which are not noticeable when the mouth is closed. Serious Fault: Wry mouth. The canines are wide apart; and the incisors are in an even, level row. Eliminating Faults: Teeth or tongue showing when the mouth is closed. EYES The very dark eyes are quite round and moderate in size; never being sunken nor bulging. When the dog is looking directly forward, the lids cover the white of the eyeball. There is no haw showing. Viewed from the front, the eyes are situated low down in the skull well away from the ears. They are set in the front of the head and are wide apart but with their outer corners within the outline of the cheek, when viewed from the front. The eyes and the stop are set in the same straight line. Eyes are free from entropinism, cherry eye, and excessive amounts of loose skin. No white is showing while the dog is looking straight ahead. Serious Faults: Visible haw. Whites of eyes showing while dog is looking straight ahead. Eliminating Fault: Excessive amounts of loose skin around eyes. NOSE The nose is large, broad and black in color. Its tip is set back deeply between the eyes. The wide, large nostrils are open. Nose roll does not protrude over the nostrils, constricting breathing. Very Serious Fault: Any nose color other than black in adult dogs. Eliminating Faults: Pinched nostrils. Over-nose roll, even if broken, that covers any part of the nose. EARS The small, thin, "rose" ears are set high on the head. The front inner edge of each ear joins the outline of the skull at the top back corner of the skull, placing them wide apart and well away from the eyes. Very Serious Faults: Erect ears; prick ears; button ears; cropped ears. Neck The short, thick neck is deep, strong, and well-arched. The skin is moderately loose, thick and wrinkled, forming a dewlap on each side from the lower jaw to the chest. Forequarters The shoulders are very broad and muscular. They are widespread providing stability and great power. They are set wide apart. The legs themselves are not curved or bandy. The low elbows allow free movement of front assembly. Pasterns are short, straight and strong. Body The body is moderately short and well knit, with stout limbs, well-muscled, and in hard condition, with no tendency toward obesity. The brisket and body are very capacious, and the chest is very deep and well let down between the front legs. Forechest is prominent. The body is well ribbed up behind the forelegs, and the ribs are well rounded. The back is short and strong, wide behind the shoulders and comparatively narrower at the loin. The topline is a distinguishing characteristic of this breed. There is a slight fall off behind the shoulders to the beginning of the back, which is the lowest part of the entire topline. It then rises to the loin, which is higher than the shoulders. The croup then curves downward to the set on of the tail, creating the arch that is distinctive to the breed. The belly is tucked up. Hindquarters The rear legs are strong and large, and they are slightly longer than the forelegs, which elevates the loin above the shoulders. The stifles are rounded and they turn very slightly outward, away from the body, which results in the hocks turning inward and the rear feet turning very slightly outward. Feet The compact, thick feet are moderate in size. The toes are well split up and have high knuckles. The front and rear feet may point straight ahead or slightly outward. Flat feet or splayed toes should be penalized. Serious Faults: Flat feet. Splayed toes. Tail The short tail is set low, and has a thick root, a decided downward carriage and a fine tip. It may be straight or "screwed," but never curved or curly. A straight tail is cylindrical and is tapered uniformly. A screw tail has well-defined bends or kinks that may be abrupt or even knotty, but no portion of the tail may be elevated above the base or root. Absent, inverted or extremely tight tails should be heavily penalized. Serious Faults: No tail. Inverted tail. Tight tail. Skin The skin is soft and fairly loose, especially at the head, neck and shoulders. There should be two folds forming the dewlap at the throat, from the lower jaw to the chest. Eliminating Faults: Nose roll overhanging or partially covering the nose. Coat The short, straight coat lies flat and close, and is smooth, glossy and of a fine texture. There are no fringes, feathers or curls. Color Coat color is uniform, pure, and brilliant. The various breed typical colors are to be preferred in the following order: 1 Red brindle; 2 All other brindles; Note: to be considered perfect, brindles are to have a fine, even, and equal distribution of the composite colors. Note: a perfect piebald is preferable to a muddy brindle or a defective solid color. Solid black and black and tan are very undesirable, but black is not so objectionable if occurring, to a moderate degree, in piebald patches. Note: A small white patch on the chest is acceptable in brindles and solid-colored dogs. Color patches on piebalds are expected to be well-defined, of pure color, and symmetrically distributed. Disqualification: Albinism. Weight Dogs are to be fit and without excess weight. The weight range for mature males is from 50 to 55 pounds. The weight range for mature females is from 45 to 50 pounds. Serious Faults: Males over 55 pounds; females over 50 pounds. Gait Movement and carriage are distinctive to the breed. There is a characteristic roll to the gait, which allows effortless movement without the pounding of the front assembly on the floor, or having the rear assembly so turned in or out as to cause cow-hocked or spread-hocked rear movement. Movement is somewhat constrained, moving with short, quick steps on the tips of the toes. The rear feet appear to skim the ground; they should not be lifted high. They always appear sound and efficient while in motion. Eliminating Faults A dog with an Eliminating Fault is not to be considered for placement in a conformation event, nor are they to be reported to UKC. Teeth or tongue showing when the mouth is closed. Pinched nostrils. Over-nose wrinkle, even if broken, that covers any part of the nose. Disqualifications A dog with a Disqualification must not be considered for placement in a conformation event, and must be reported to UKC. Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid.

Margaret O. I could not be happier. A mentally healthy dog is so important. Our little guy came to us in an unexpected unique way. After a previous family was unable to take him, Jeff called us and asked if we were interested in coming out to meet the puppy that same day! They are willing to sit and talk through any questions you have, they give you a lot of information about the breed, and what to expect when you bring your puppy home. Another big plus for us was seeing that the kennels were clean and all the dogs that we saw looked very healthy. Our puppy was the sweetest when he first met us! He ran up to us, showered us in puppy kisses, and was just overall a happy chill little dude. He just had his first vet appointment and was given a clean bill of health! He is sweet, gentle, and such a fast learner! I have never met any dog with this level of intelligence and at such a young age! We have only had him for 6 days and he has settled in so quick and has already learned basic commands. Thank you so much Jeff and Rhonda for our new little addition to our family! When we first went to meet with them and take a peek at Adrian and Barus litter, we liked that they had all the dogs in the home and the home was clean!!! Adrian had a calm temperament as well as the rest of the dogs. Caught on extremely quick w the training and is extremely good with our young grandchildren. We definitely chose the right breeders. Good communication and great canine genetics are obvious! Response from the owner Thank you so much April for the kind words. Rhonda and I try very hard to make things special for our puppy families. Pride and integrity means everything to us. Rhonda takes care of pupies like her own kids! We have 3 of their dogs one male that is the puppy of untox and panja. H gets to play fight likes that and playing with his ball. Rhonda was spectacular to work with, detailed and friendly. She is one of the most intelligent, healthy puppies we have ever owned and her temperament with our family is world class. When we were looking for a puppy we met with Rhonda and could not of been happier. There dogs were so well behaved, stunningly gorgeous and just wanted to be loved. Exactly what my wife and I were looking for. We all no there is never any guarantees in life when it comes to purchasing a puppy, but I can say we have a true champion in our little Bella. She has been a total blessing since we got her. Thanks Rhonda and Jeff!! Response from the owner. Our goal is to be the best and that means breeding the best German Shepherds in the country. People travel from as far as Alaska, and even from across the Atlantic, to see and purchase our pups. We also take German Shepherd pups from all over the world to professionally train in basic or advanced obedience training as well as personal protection and protection work training. But, no matter where our new pups go or where people come from to have their pups trained, Vom Ragnar is proud to be a part of the Chicago community and will always consider Chicago to be our home base. We are equally committed to maintaining a healthy business relationship with the city of Chicago and the surrounding communities. Or you can email us at vomragnar gmail. Our German Shepherd litters of Puppies for sale are excellent with kids and other pets and of course, perfect for the families. Our puppies have super temperament character. The rich black and red color and of course is pure breed, German Shepherd. We specialize in German Shepherd litters of Puppies for sale for Family, companionship show dogs or working dogs. We are now can ship our German shepherd litters of puppies, young dogs or adult dogs for sale worldwide. For easy to locate and drive to our Kenny, please use the Google Map below: For more information about seeing our puppies at kennel facility, please complete the form to make an appointment or simply call us at .Your Name required. We specialize in family companion dogs, and our dogs are used for children with Autism and Aspergers. We also provide dogs for epileptic and diabetic detection, as well the hearing impaired. Our dogs also serve as companions to veterans , and we work closely with VA hospitals to provide dogs who assist with PTSD and anxiety. A large number of our dogs are also competitors and working schutzhund dogs. We make use of a private courier service to pick up and deliver our dogs. We're very mindful to ensure the dogs are completely happy throughout the delivery! If we think you're the right match for one of our dogs we can deliver them to you wherever you are based in the US. All of our dogs come with a lifetime guarantee on health contingent on meeting criteria stated in the contract. Our dogs are gentle and attentive and have dispositions perfect for family companionship or special needs. Puppies come with comprehensive training included, along with a full year of shots. A list of individual dogs accomplishments include Va Winnie, Va Ollie, V1 Saint and many dogs involved in the 6xwinner of the progeny group competition. Regis Regal German Shepherds have also worked in many different areas of public service, such as patrol dogs, search and rescue dogs, avalanche rescue dogs, bomb detection, narcotic detection, and even arson dogs. As featured in Puppy Rental for Special Events Looking for a memorable experience at your next event? Rent one of our German Shepherd dogs for a limited time at your next special event. Our team is perfect for birthdays, conferences, conventions, company retreats, and special events all over the country! Get in touch with our AKC German Shepherd breeders to learn more about our puppy rental services and event guidelines. Contact our team to learn more. Client Testimonials "I purchased my German Shepard from them when she was a puppy and she is now a beautiful, sweet tempered 4-year-old dog. We took home our pup and have had only good thoughts and things to say since we left. Cindy shared so much time and knowledge with us before we left. Axle just turned two years old and will be an important part of my kids lives as they grow up. We work closely with them in order to train our dogs to assist veterans with PTSD, anxiety, and more. Cindy's Latest Articles Cindy Kelly loves to share her expertise on breeding, training and raising world class German Shepherds. When she has time she publishes articles on the Regis Regal blog - you can find some of her most recent ones listed below. If you would like to hear Cindy's thoughts on any particular element of owning or raising German Shepherds then feel free to get in touch. Learn here! Read More Trending States Based on their Interest in our World-Class German Shepherds We make use of a high quality, private courier service to deliver our dogs where a customer is unable to come to our premises in Illinois. Best temperament, easy to train and an absolute sweetheart. However, I have an extraordinary story to share about my young pup. Mila our female puppy has a sense of medical issues. At .I typically experience these attacks once every year or two. At first, I thought maybe I spilled so food or something on my shirt, so I changed my shirt, but she continued. Then a little over an hour later, I had an attack. Mila did not leave my side for the entire time. No matter what way I tried to lay in bed to get comfortable she would move her body to press up against my gallbladder. Normally she is crated at night and does great, no whining or anything.Having her warm body and the slight pressure of her body next to me really actually helped. The next day I was back to normal, and Mila went to her crate for bed no problem. We are a breeder of top, world-class quality German Shepherd puppies of West German bloodlines with impeccable Temperaments and type. If you are looking for a German Shepherd puppy or an adult dog suitable for confirmation, obedience, therapy, assistance dog, search and rescue, K-9 training, schutzhund or for the ever present loyal companion.Occasionally, we do have long coat German Shepherd puppies available as well. All litters are raised in our home, well socialized and each held and cuddled several times a day. The result is a pup that is comfortable around people, children, vehicles and other animals. It is not uncommon for our puppies to be housebroken by the time they leave our house. I have been actively showing and breeding since , and have always had West German lines. I use the pronoun "I", but could not do this without backup from my family. I breed because I love German Shepherds. Quality German Shepherd breeders follow the German rules. With my puppies, I strive to improve this wonderful breed. This is not how I make my living, but how I choose to spend my time. Vollmond's Laro Our German Shepherd puppies are all wormed, given the appropriate shots, and Vet checked before leaving to go to their new families. We also offer puppy foundation training in obedience and Shutzhund training, ring training and show support. Please call for details. Vollmond's Laro is a Karo son out of our own breeding to Vollmond's Eika. We are Proud to say he is a 2nd generation Vollmond dog!! Vollmond's Kai - First Time Swimming For therapy or just exercise, swimming is great for german shepherds. Kai has been swimming to supplement his regular exercise at a terrific new place with an indoor, heated, resistance pool specifically designed for canine therapy and exercise. You can order yours today at or Use order code number Quick Links.

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More Are you looking for adorable Labradoodle puppies in Indiana? All of them follow ethical breeding practices and make sure that their puppies come from healthy, carefully screened parents. For this, ethical Labradoodle breeders in Indiana conduct rigorous health and genetic testing on their breeding dogs. Only dogs who have passed with flying colors are used for breeding purposes, which greatly reduces the risk of the puppies inheriting any genetic conditions or hereditary illnesses. Some breeders even offer a three-year health warranty! All of these organizations require that their member breeders follow their strict health testing standards, ethical breeding practices, and provide the pups a nurturing, loving, and safe environment to grow up in. Additionally, some breeders also post their customer testimonials on their websites. Chestnut Hill Labradoodles is a Puppy Culture breeder and also utilizes important puppy rearing techniques from Avidog. They make sure that all of their pups are properly socialized with children, adults, elderly, and other dogs before adoption. They also implement various enrichment methods, such as potty training, crate training, Early Neurological Stimulation ENS , regular grooming, household desensitization, and more. What Makes This Breeder Unique? Puppies receive their age appropriate vaccinations, dewormings, a microchip, free pet insurance for 30 days through Trupanion, and early spaying or neutering. This way, you will know what to expect and if this is the right breed for your home. Ashford Manor Labradoodles Ashford Manor Labradoodles is one of the breeding centers you can rely on if ever looking for labradoodle dogs in Indiana. They have been in this industry for a long time now, which means they have already established a reputation among dog lovers. They have a wide variety of Labradoodle puppies for sale, and that is why you will never have a hard time choosing from them. Ashford Manor only works with the top Australian Labradoodle lines, and they go through every procedure to a tee. The dogs would not be unaware of this, but they get improved genetics in terms of superior hypoallergenic and non-shedding hair. In addition, they maintain a small breeding program to give each puppy the attention and socialization it requires for them to grow up to be loving, loyal pets. Ashford breeds multigenerational mini and medium-sized Labradoodle puppies. A professional trainer guides these pedigree puppies in fluffy, allergy-friendly, and non-shedding coats. Each puppy comes with a 2-year genetic health guarantee. Address: West Columbia St. This is why Chestnut Hill Labradoodles is one of the top breeders on the list. Chestnut Hill Labradoodles is located in Indiana, and they can provide you with all the information you need about their services and products. The puppies learn through positive reinforcement and puppy culture training because the first sixteen weeks are so important. They are best known for their multigenerational mini, medium, and standard-sized Labradoodle puppies. Not to mention that this Gold Paw enterprise is one of the favorites in Indiana for Labradoodle puppies. In addition, they offer a two-year health guarantee. Not only do they provide excellent services, but they also offer different types of puppies, depending on what you are looking for. Daffodil Hill Australian Labradoodles are popular for their mini and medium-sized puppies. They are multigenerational hypoallergenic dogs that are not only friendly but also intelligent. Each puppy will be part of your family for the rest of its life. They breed only the finest Australian and American multigenerational non-shedding Hypoallergenic miniature and medium Labradoodle for sale. Its mission is to provide loving families with the healthiest and best-natured Labradoodle pups in Indiana. Forever Friends uses a gentle and kind temperament to ensure that the puppies are comfortable in every situation, which is why Doodles from Forever Friends make excellent family pets. They breed F1, F1B, and multigenerational labradoodle puppies in both mini and medium sizes. They provide excellent services, but their pups are also highly intelligent and make great family pets. Furthermore, they guarantee their puppies for two years from genetic diseases. If you have allergies, the Harvest Labradoodles are perfect for you because they are non-shedding and very friendly, making them ideal as family pets. Address: Located on a small family farm in Madison, Indiana. Phone: Website: www. We hope that you will find it helpful to adopt one of these non-shedding and hypoallergenic dogs. They will be perfect as your new family pet, and they will have a positive impact on your life. Smaller Labradoodle breeders in Indiana offer advantages such as greater specific care for each puppy and a feeling of becoming part of the family when you buy from them. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. Ashford Manor offers important services that benefit you, your puppy, and your family! Puppy Bootcamp Your puppy is already socialized and prepared for family life, but this takes it a step further. For an additional fee and in four weeks, your puppy will begin to know basic commands. Grooming Services Australian Labradoodles are groomed in a special way. Many groomers do not this, but we do. Try us out! It takes time to search for the best products for your dog. We understand that. She is amazing, wonderful, and adorable. Nothing seems bothers her: not the noise, car horns, police sirens, fire engines, or motorcycles. You should hear all the comments I get from people who stop me to ask what breed she is and tell me how cute and beautiful she is. He is totally crate trained, and has very rarely had an accident inside. He slept the first night and every night from 11pm-6AM better than any of my 4 kids! People with dogs say that we are very lucky and have such a great dog! She is always the smartest one in the class as she is such a quick learner! Izzy is pretty much completely potty trained — she regularly rings the bells — though she has figured out that ringing the bells get her the attention she likes, so she does that for fun sometimes too. He is just a doll and the grand kids love him. Kids absolutely adore her — thank you for such a wonderful puppy. Our breeding program includes Labradoodles from Tegan Park and Rutland Manor, the originators of this clever breed. We are dedicated to preserving the Australian Labradoodle, by insuring sound breeding practices, excellence and the highest standard of ethics. Our dogs and puppies live in our home as loved pets. They are well socialized and used to children and other animals. Proper socialization is important to the puppy you will adopt so much attention is given to your new puppy. While in our home we take the utmost care of your new puppy. Your little prince or princess will be treated like royalty. You can be assured that the best care and attention is given to all aspects of breeding, and that we are devoted to advancing and preserving this unique breed. Only sound Labradoodles are allowed to participate in our breeding program. Our adherence to these policies backs up our guarantee in providing only the best Australian Labradoodles. It is my goal to produce the finest companion for your family and am honored that so many families come to me for their puppy. Australian Labradoodles. 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 Marion Indiana 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. We also offer older trained pet puppies!!! The hard part is already done for you! She is already crate trained sleep through the night and is doing excellent on potty training with no accidents in over a week!!! She is learning to walk on a leash and getting well socialized. For more info on this sweet girl call Pat at .See our facebook page for more pictures and updates! Uriel loves her humans! She likes to be a shadow and be right by anyone in the house! She enjoys car rides and snuggles! She loves to run and play outside and then cool off on the air conditioning vent! She would do best with older children and adults. Her very favorite activity is laying on the bed next to her human and snuggling in for a long nap! For more info call Pat at .This little girl is just so much fun! Ursula is a fun loving, spunky, playful girl, that would thrive in an active family. She would also love a family that has another dog for a playmate. Ursula loves car rides and loves to play with her toys and retrieve them for you! She is doing well with crate training, and potty training and learning to walk on a leash. For more info on making this fun loving girl a part of your family call Pat at .Possibility of all colors solid and parti. Call Pat at to reserve a puppy. We take calls 7 days a week from 9am-9pm. We are on Eastern time. Puppies expected winter See our facebook page for more pictures and updates! We reserve the right to retain potential breeding stock puppies from any litter. We reserve the right to deny anyone one of our puppies. We also reserve the right to change mating pairs based on circumstances.

Meet Luna, the epic pug with a fiery spirit and a heart full of love! Lune, a pint-sized dynamo, is the embodiment of personality and charm. This little pug packs a punch and is ready to find her forever home, where she can unleash her infectious energy and fill your life with joy. No obstacle is too big for Luna - she fearlessly tackles then head-on with a wagging tail and a wagging tongue. Get ready for some serious laughter as Luna showcases her hilarious antics and leaves you in stitches. Beneath that mischievous glimmer in her eyes lies a heart of pure gold. Luna is a loyal companion who craves human affection and will shower her lucky adopters with endless love and cuddles. She adores the company of humans of all ages and gets along very well with other furry friends. A home that appreciates her spirited nature and is willing to provide consistent training and mental stimulation will be the perfect fit for this pugtastic dynamo. So, are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey with Luna? Fill out our application here. Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet. September 5, , am. Website: snugglepugs. They make sure that when they post about pug puppies in Michigan, the perfect puppy is ready to be released to their new owners. This means that they make sure the puppies are in good health, had their first shots, and are vet checked. They cater and serve to all locations in the vicinity of Michigan, Check them out for pug puppies for sale. Here is their contact information: Marshall, MI Email: sfjmercado yahoo. Breeders have a major responsibility to build from the healthiest dogs on their family pedigree. They should focus on the breeding quality not on quantity if they wish to be in business for a long time. They have to take into account the various health problems and genetic medical condition traits to ensure that the puppy lives a long life. Always do your diligent research on breeders and find those who value pet parents and dog owners who are responsible. Filter your leads to those who are more likely certified pugs for sale Michigan listers. Pug Puppies for Sale: How much does a baby pug cost in Michigan? High prices will come from popular breeders or other reputed breeders. This is the reason why one needs to check if the current finances are able to support another pet family member. Tell me the average price of Pug Puppies in Michigan? Conclusion Pug puppies are among the most adorable pups out there. They are energetic in their early years and they love to play. However, as they grow older, they tend to spend most of their sleeping in comfy spots at home. It is always the best choice to purchase pug puppies from breeders, adoption houses, rescue organizations, and other pet shops that have earned a good, solid reputation in the local community and would provide a health guarantee. You also need to consider the needs of the pugs before actually bringing them to your home. Aside from making your home puppy proof, make sure that you have the time to provide the attention they need. They also need to be constantly groomed. Keep an eye on the areas between the folds on their faces and always check its unique pug tail. Brush their coat at least once a week to control their shedding. You should try which shampoo helps with the shedding as well. Take light walks outside on the cooler parts of the day. This will help them cool down easier. Responsible Dog breeders are a gem. Here are some of the other topics we have created to help you search pugs for sale by location. Our staff are avid fans and dedicated owners of Pugs. We hope to answer all the questions you have about Pugs. Just read and enjoy. Feel free to share if you find it valuable to others! Best regards, Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood. They are bouncy, tail wagging, cuddle bugs, the cutest things ever! Uncle Al lives in our "apartment", the walkout basement downstairs. We help Uncle Al with his Pugs. They are wonderful caring moms! When our moms retire we have them spayed and offer them to pet only homes for about half the cost of a puppy. They will be on the retired parent page at that time. Diva will be available this late winter or spring .See the other pages: "About our puppies," "what comes with your puppy", and " is a puppy really right for you. Or maybe adopt a rescued adult Pug. Rescue is always the best! Do your homework, since a rescued dog needs a home appropriate for their needs as much as a puppy! A puppy is a very serious decision. Please do not get a puppy or a dog if you have any hesitation about long term responsibility of a furry best friend. We love our puppies and dogs and only want them in a home where they will be a part of the family! If interested in a puppy please email or call. Remainder due on pick up. Pugs are heat and cold sensitive. Not at all a 'hiking in all weather' type of dog. Some are amazingly agile, fast, and athletic and do tolerate a wider range of temperature. Others are at risk of collapsing if overheated when simply out on a warm day and playing. Many make terrific therapy dogs. They are very tolerant of children. Puppies available now! All puppies are kept current on vaccinations, dewormed several times, microchipped, and well socialized. Puppies are microchipped and current on vaccinations. Nikki black and Boris fawn had puppies 1 white female available, updated .Photos taken , at 4. They have grown so much but look the same, update, they are 14 week old. Im around 12 years old. I'm a tiny, fat girl. I'm very petite, as they call me. I weigh about 10 pounds, but I am a little over weight for my size. I came to PugHearts after being left at a shelter with injuries to both my eyes. I had to have 1 eye removed and the other I don't see much out of. I also had to have emergency surgery because I had a prolapsed vagina. I'm feeling much better now. We are still trying to get somethings taken care of, but FoMo and FoPa both say I'm showing my sweet little demanding personality just because I really love to be held and sit with people. I don't think that it demanding. I'm currently on medical hold, while we get some other medical issues worked out, so it will be a while before I'm ready for adoption. Adopt Testimonials We had an amazing experience with Pughearts! The process was thorough which I appreciated. The volunteers and organization are extremely passionate about their rescue dogs and their well being. We are so grateful for our fur babies and for Pughearts! We live out of state and Pug Hearts went above and beyond to come and inspect our home. Every step of the way all the volunteers I worked with were kind and quick to answer all my many questions through the adoption process. When I flew to Houston to meet the pug we were hoping to adopt, my flight was significantly delayed and our pug's foster mom took the next day off just so I could come meet with her! Our pug came to us in great health, fully checked by the Pug Hearts vet team, with detailed vet records for her continued care. We continue to stay in touch with the volunteers and our Pug's foster mom sending updates and sharing stories, Not only did we add the sweetest pug girl to our family, we feel like we came away with new friends! We will always adopt from Pug Hearts from now on and highly recommend them for your family too! Everyone we spoke with and worked with was very nice and answered all of our questions quickly. Ann was awesome about coming to do the home visit for us since we live in a remote location in Colorado. Karen was awesome about giving us all the information we needed and making sure our pup was all set to travel back from Houston. We would recommend Pug Hearts for anyone looking to help find a pug a forever home! I have nothing but wonderful things to say about this rescue! Our pug had been found wandering the streets , was underweight and had severe behavioral issues. His foster mother worked with him for 4 months to get him ready to come home with us. Not only did we get a new family member but I made a great friend as well. They take in pugs of any age with any medical problem and provide them with not only the medical care they need but the love they deserve. No pug is left behind. They are extremely thorough in the application process and truly care about the well-being of every single animal that they help. The organization has a wonderful group of volunteers, donors, and Fosters. The intake coordinator and the Director are absolutely wonderful to communicate with. They are very knowledgeable and caring. I have adopted three pugs from them and anytime I have questions or concerns they are quick to reply with a solution. Hands-down the best rescue in the entire world!!

Long or medium, water resistant Coat Colors Bi-colored, range from black, cream, sable, black, and amber. Above all, know that these dogs are by no means small! In fact, they can grow to be quite large. This mix will grow to be somewhere in between how big its parents are. Male and female German Shepherds have a better big difference in height and weight. While males grow up to 24 and 26 inches cm , females get to be about 22 and 24 inches cm. As far as weight, males can be 65 to 90 pounds kg heavy while females are only between 50 to 70 pounds kg. The Golden Retriever looks a bit different. Again, there is a difference between the sexes. Females can grow as tall as .Males are inches 58 — 61 cm tall and pounds 29 — 34 kg heavy. But what does this mean for your Golden Shepherd? As mentioned above these dogs grow to 20 to 26 inches cm tall and 60 to 85 pounds 27 — 39 kg heavy. It really is just a guessing game with this breed. Hands down, they the best out of the best when it comes to guarding. Golden Retrievers are on the opposite end of the spectrum. They are very easy going, love all strangers, and are loyal to any family members. These dogs are social and beloved because of their awesome people pleasing skills. The Golden Retriever German Shepherd Mix could inherit any combination of these behaviors from their parents, just as the same as their appearance. Their cleverness makes training easy. Kids and Golden Shepherds get along great. Your dog will always be up for some fetch or tug-of-war. Since there is hunting blood in their veins, watch them around smaller animals. Or you might witness lots of chasing. Be on the Lookout for These Possible Health Problems source As mentioned in the first paragraph Golden Shepherds have a life expectancy of around years if they receive enough love and high-quality care. However, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers have numerous health issues that can pass down to their puppies. Work closely with your breeder to prevent this from happening to you. German Shepherd Health Risks These dogs have been bred for multiple centuries. Because of this, they run into many medical problems. However, here are the top three problems that you might run into. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia This is a pretty common disease for most, but unfortunately, the German Shepherd is more prone to it than others. In fact, 1 out of 5 German Shepherds are expected to have this. This could be blamed on their energetic personality and big stature. Regardless, hip and elbow dysplasia is when the hip or elbow joint frequently pops out of its socket. As you can expect, this can cause the bones to wear down over time and, eventually, cause lameness. Perianal Fistula In other words, doggy diarrhea. It can be particularly alarming as it is often accompanied with bloody poop. It all starts when the skin around the anus begins to gets infected. Osteoarthritis Or, when the joints begin to wear down after normal living. Most specifically for German Shepherds, it happens around the spine. If you take good care of your German Shepherd, as well as schedule regular vet visits to be proactive in their health, you can expect 11 happy years together. The most alarming of these is cancer. Aside from this, you can expect .Here are several of their other health problems: Atopic Dermatitis : Otherwise known as allergies! Most commonly, dogs can be allergic to pollen, animal dander, plants, insects, food, and medication. This breed is known to have lots of issues with this. Aortic Stenosis : This is a medical condition that affects the blood flow in the chambers of the heart. Eventually, this can thicken the heart walls and lead to serious heart issues and even failure. Just like with German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers are also prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Many do debates whether this is true. The unfortunate side of this is that examples have shown us over time they may change into something not as healthy. A great example of this is the English Bulldog. Yet, on the other hand, mixing combines the positive traits of two types while getting rid of the negative. It takes a lot of time and hard effort, but it can happen. Regardless of this debate, whether your pup is healthy comes down to the breeder you choose and the parents. But what should you specifically work on? Make sure to socialize your Golden Shepherd early in case they adopt the nervousness around strangers from their German Shepherds parents. Have visitors, other animals, and children over often. The more experience they have around strangers, the better. Plan for many daily walks. Because of this, a house with a yard is better. But an apartment can work if given enough daily exercise. Since German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are prone to having joint problems and your pup could inherit these issues, be cautious when exercising. As well, overeating can be a problem because extra weight increases the load on the joints. Make sure to use a brush that can reach both layers of the coat. Heading to the bathtub too often can damage their skin. As well, pay attention to how long their nails have grown and clip when necessary. Brush their teeth weekly to avoid the buildup of plaque and stinky kisses. And check their ears weekly for too much wax. This depends on where you buy from and the pedigree. The good news is that there are breeders everywhere! Also across Canada and the UK. As we mentioned before, do your research! Make sure anyone you purchase from is raising healthy and happy pups. Do a quick search in your area on sites like:. 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. Click here for more information on this characteristic Golden Shepherd Highlights Golden Shepherds are mixed breed dogs. The main colors of Golden Shepherds are black, tan, red, cream, and blue. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. While they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job. They shed quite a bit. The Golden Shepherd not only loves kids, they enjoy the commotion they bring with them. Though, as with all dogs, playtime with kids should always be supervised. Golden Shepherds have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one hour-long walk per day. Hiking and other adventurous activities are strongly recommended. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems that affect many purebreds as well as create an ultimate family companion and watchdog. They continued to create Golden Shepherds as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though Golden Shepherds got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the dog for you. Check your local shelters, look up Golden Shepherd rescues, or check with breed-specific German Shepherd and Golden Retriever rescues, as they sometimes help to re-home mixed breeds. That said, as a mix between German Shepherd and Golden Retriever parents, you can expect the Golden Shepherd to be on the large side. Most weigh in at 60 to 95 pounds and range in height from 20 to 27 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. Golden Shepherd Personality Golden Shepherds make excellent family companions and watchdogs. Protective in nature, they will alert when strangers approach. However, once they befriend you, you have a friend for life. These pups hail from a line of two working parents. Their Golden Shepherd parents regularly work as military, police, and guard dogs, while their Golden Retriever parents have jobs as hunting and guide dogs. Golden Shepherds like to work and need to have a job to do, whether big or small. Give them a sense of purpose, and this dog will earn their keep ten fold. They are highly trainable, and thrive on positive reinforcement. Do not leave them alone for long periods. They can easily become board, depressed, and frustrated, which will result in unwanted behaviors. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Golden Shepherds are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as this mixed breed is prone to tartar build-up. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility with its one-inch jumps. Crate and kennel training should start in puppyhood. Golden Shepherd Feeding An ideal Golden Shepherd diet should be formulated for a large breed with high energy. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. As with all dogs, the Golden Shepherd dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and will continue to change into their senior years. You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Golden Shepherd diet, as there is far too much variation among individual dogs—including weight, energy, and health—to make a specific recommendation. They usually have medium length, dense coats, and while they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job and bathing is recommended every few months with a mild shampoo. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Their double coats do shed quite a bit. You will definitely want a vacuum on hand. You will need it. Have you tried robot vacuums? See if the Eufy RoboVac is right for you! Their double coat gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather. Many of these dogs absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also helps to keep them cool during hot summer months. Keep in mind they are an indoor dog and need to live indoors with their family. Like all dogs, however, Golden Shepherds need to be trained how to behave around children and vice versa. 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. Learn more about this awesome breed by reading about their parent breeds the German Shepherd and Golden Retriever. Golden Shepherd Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Golden Shepherds because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or Golden Retriever breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. This dog is a cross between the German shepherd and the Golden Retriever. Crossbreeding entails incorporating the best qualities and attributes of two pure breeds to bring about new breeds commonly referred to as crossbreeds, hybrids, and designer dogs. Taking care of Golden Shepherds is not daunting, as long as the pup gets placed with a vibrant family who can assure them company and match their energy levels. The German Shepherd and the Golden Retriever dogs are friendly, loyal, intelligent, playful, and full of energy. These two breeds are well-known and make the most loyal dog breeds in the entire animal kingdom. So what happens when you mix the two? Mixing the two integrates exceptional qualities from both parents, bringing about this large, robust, and charming bundle of joy. To get a more profound understanding of this mix, it is imperative to learn more about the parent breeds. Origins of The German Shepherd The German shepherd is one of the most common and recognizable breeds that have been in existence for more than years. These dogs began as sheepherders in Germany and were highly esteemed for their work ethics more than their appearance. Towards the beginning of the 20th century, an effort was established to create a specific dog of Germany. The first German shepherd breed club was started by Max Emil Frederick von Stephanitz, where he came up with a club to maintain and control the breed standards. He also purchased a stud that he perceived as the perfect German shepherd, which he then went ahead to breed. His continuous efforts led to a dramatic surge in the popularity of German Shepherds. This breed later gained back its popularity with the public during the s and has been used more by the police and the military. The breed was started by a British aristocrat known as Lord Tweedmouth. Although the breed is known to be of Scottish heritage , Tweedmouth bought the first Retriever in Brighton, England, where he later coached the dog to retrieve birds. As time progressed, he decided to breed the dog with a type of water spaniel that is non-existent today. Eventually, the Golden Retriever was bred to be a sporting dog. Since the dog is extremely intelligent, it is usually used to track and sniff out contraband for law enforcement and carry out charity tasks such as guiding the blinds. However, it began becoming popular amongst breeders in .It is a crossbreed of purebred Golden Retriever and a purebred German shepherd. The Golden shepherd appeared as a designer dog during its initial stage but eventually found its way into the shelter and rescue organizations. This pup has no dull days as they are fun, energetic, boisterous, a great companion, and exhibits so much affection to all family members, including small kids. They also blend so well with strangers and outsiders. Contrary to the nature of his GSD parent, German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix, is patient, attentive, eager to learn and work, and does not cause trouble. Apart from being social and friendly, they are loyal and highly devoted to their master and will always offer protection in case of any danger. Since they get a deep connection with their immediate family, they have an increased potential risk of developing extreme separation anxiety. Therefore, it is not advisable to leave them alone for more than a few hours. This dog can make a great exercise partner if you love hiking and other more adventurous activities. They Require a Healthy and Balanced Diet Depending on their age, weight, and activity level, ensure to feed this pup with a quality diet rich in protein, fats, carbs, vitamins, and minerals. Also, refrain from incorporating additives, fillers, artificial flavors, or preservatives in their diet. They are Typically Easy To Train German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix responds exceptionally well to positive reinforcement training since they are always eager and quick to learn. When training this dog, involve more praise treats and allow them to relax when you realize they are getting tired, bored, or overwhelmed. They are Not Pure Breeds Like the Individual Parents German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix is not a pure breed like their individual parents but rather a recently developed hybrid involving breeding a purebred golden retriever with a purebred German Shepherd. They are Not a Good Choice for Owners with Allergies The individual parents are highly known for their picturesque double coats. As a result, the German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix has thick, double-coated fur that sheds heavily. When this pup blows his coat, it ends up losing a lot of hair. Unfortunately, it is not advisable to shave its hair, leading to heatstroke and skin and hair problems. Therefore, if you suffer from allergies or one family member has allergies, this is not the perfect dog for you. Its Average Lifespan is About Years Numerous factors can affect the overall lifespan of your dog, including a healthy diet, regular vet visits, the right exercises, genetic factors, and others. However, others can exceed this age. Some will simply refer to them as a German Sheperd Golden Retriever mix but there are other names for the breed as well such as the Golden German Shepherd, German Retriever, Golden Shepherd, or much more. More on Dog Knowledge:. This hybrid breed, sometimes referred to as a golden German shepherd, is utterly adorable, incredibly smart, very loyal to his family members , and, above all else, supremely lovable. Golden shepherds make great pets for families that have plenty of time and energy to dedicate to daily exercise and affection. Appearance Golden shepherds, like other hybrid breeds, get their traits from both parent breeds. Half German shepherd, half golden retriever, they may closely resemble one parent or the other, or they may look like some combination of the two—it all depends. Golden retrievers typically stand 21—25 inches tall and weigh 55—75 pounds. As this breed's name suggests, their fur color falls somewhere along the yellow spectrum—from creamy white to dark golden. They have feathery tails that are almost always wagging happily. German shepherds tend to be about the same size as golden retrievers, weighing between 50—90 pounds and standing 22—26 inches tall. These regal-looking canines are typically black and tan but they can also have black, black with red, sable, or white fur, too. Similarly, golden shepherds may have the floppy, folded-over ears of a golden retriever or the alert, upright ears of a German shepherd. No matter which parent your golden shepherd puppy looks like, he's basically guaranteed to be cute. A full-grown golden shepherd will likely be a medium- to large-sized dog , so consider how much space you have before bringing one home. Temperament For lovers of German shepherds and golden retrievers, golden shepherd dogs are the perfect happy medium. These good-natured pups get the brains of a German shepherd, the happy-go-lucky attitude of a golden retriever, and the family-friendliness of both parent breeds. Golden retrievers are cheerful, fun-loving dogs with delightful personalities—there's a reason they're so popular, particularly among families with kids. They love to romp and play, but they're equally as happy snuggling up on the couch for movie night. Golden retrievers absolutely adore getting attention from their human owners—pets, scratches, praise, and cuddles are their favorite—so they're all-around top-notch companions who would gladly follow you anywhere. They are friendly with new people and almost always steal the spotlight at parties. They love going for walks and learning new cues and tricks , so some daily blend of physical and mental stimulation is important for keeping a German shepherd happy. They love their human family members deeply and are often referred to as "Velcro dogs" because they like to be in the same room with their people at all times. They'll readily alert you to a delivery at the door, too. As a German shepherd and golden retriever mix, golden shepherds will likely have varying personalities that incorporate attributes from their parents, according to Nicole Ellis , CPDT-KA, pet lifestyle expert with Rover. This makes them ideal for families that spend a lot of time at home or young professionals with remote jobs. Puzzle toys and feeders can help keep your golden shepherd engaged, too. Care Grooming a golden shepherd is relatively low-maintenance, though be forewarned: Your dog will likely shed a fair amount golden retrievers and German shepherds both shed heavily in the spring and fall and moderately year-round. To keep your golden shepherd looking his most handsome, brush his coat at least once a week and bathe him with shampoo formulated specially for dogs as necessary. Regular brushing can also help keep the shedding in check, to a degree, but you may also want to invest in a good vacuum cleaner , too. Courtesy of bella. Also, brush your golden shepherd's teeth nightly or at least as often as you can manage! Set a reminder to clean your golden shepherd's ears regularly , too. Though your golden shepherd may naturally be a very social dog, thanks to his golden retriever lineage, it's still important to socialize him from a young age. This way, he'll be comfortable around new sights, smells, sounds, people, and other dogs. Puppy kindergarten training classes can help your golden shepherd puppy learn new cues while also interacting with other pooches of all shapes and sizes as well as their owners. As you search for a training facility or begin to prepare your own training plans , keep in mind that golden shepherds respond best to positive reinforcement that involves a reward, such as high-value treats , petting, and effusive praise, Ellis says. Health A golden shepherd's health and expected lifespan depend greatly on the health of his two parents. German shepherds, which typically live 7—10 years, can be susceptible to certain genetic diseases and conditions, including elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia , epilepsy , bleeding disorders, eye conditions , degenerative myelopathy hemangiosarcoma , and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Golden retrievers tend to live slightly longer with average lifespans between 10—12 years. Like German shepherds, golden retrievers may also experience elbow and hip dysplasia and eye conditions including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. Golden retrievers are also susceptible to allergies and hypothyroidism. The good news is that hybrid breeds tend to have fewer medical problems than purebred dogs, she says, though you should still be aware of these common concerns. History As with other hybrid breeds, the exact history of the golden shepherd is unknown. We do know that golden retrievers were developed in the mid-to-late s in the Scottish Highlands by Dudley Marjoribanks, the first Lord of Tweedmouth, who wanted to develop a skilled hunting dog who could tackle the region's rugged terrain. German shepherds hail from Germany, where they were developed in the late s by a German cavalry officer named Capt. Max von Stephanitz. These intuitive dogs learn quickly, which is why they're such a popular choice for police work, search and rescue missions, and other important jobs. Today, golden shepherds are primarily companion animals and pets. There aren't many golden shepherd breeders in the U. But check with local animal shelters and rescue groups regularly, as they may have a mixed-breed dog with some German shepherd and golden retriever in his DNA or dogs with similar characteristics to these two pups! Fun Facts If you're training for a marathon or planning a big summit, a golden shepherd will gladly accompany you on your training runs and hikes. These pups are very sporty and have a lot of endurance not to mention that they'd get to spend time with you, their favorite person! Large breeds like golden retrievers and Germans shepherds can become overweight if left to their own devices. Keep an eye on your dog's weight and talk with a veterinarian about the best way to keep him fit and healthy. Golden shepherds are good contenders for dog sports like agility, rally, obedience, and more. They love a good session of fetch in the backyard, too. Was this page helpful? Furthermore, since they have deep ears, these dogs accumulate ear wax quicker than the other dogs. These dogs need 45 — 90 minutes per day of exercise These activities also reduce the chances of having health issues in the future. This said trait may result in an unintentional aggressiveness to strangers. To fix this issue, these dogs should have proper training and enough socialization in their early years. Note sure the Golden Shepherd is right for you? Ever wonder what a Golden Retriever Corgi looks like? These dogs are very loyal to their owners and are also intelligent which prevent the dogs from causing trouble. They are generally patient, attentive, and eager to learn and work. They are an affectionate and a great companion 2. Guarding Ability Golden Retriever mixed with German Shepherd dogs are large and muscular dogs due to the genetics of the parent breed German Shepherd. These features allow you to have dogs that can protect you and the people around you. Environmental Adjustments With proper training, these dogs are remarkably adaptive. This characteristic gives you an easy time particularly if you move around frequently to regions with many changes in the weather and environment. So, If you want to travel with your pet, this breed is the one for you. Their body is longer than it is tall. Golden Retriever mixed with German Shepherd dogs weigh from 60 lbs to 80 lbs while their height can range from 20 inches to 25 inches. This breed has variations in coat types and colors. Their coats are commonly long, dense, thick and doubled; resulting in a higher chance of constant shedding. These energetic dogs like outdoor activities such as swimming, long walks, and jogging but you need to be wary of extreme heat because of their thick coats. Early socialization training for these dogs is valued. This breed tends to be reserved and nervous towards strangers. Nonetheless, they can learn to be friendly immediately by going out regularly. German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix dogs usually express extreme loyalty and a loving personality to their owner and the family they belong to. The German Shepherd mixed with Golden Retriever is not an official dog breed yet; however, the following organizations recognize them as a designer mixed-breed. A reliable breeder should provide you with valuable documents. If everything checks out, a contract that shows clear briefing of the conditions is essential. Doing research and exploring your community is the best way to find reliable breeders. Remember, adopting a dog will always cost less. Visit your local animal shelter to ask about the availability of this dog breed. Moreover, try looking into the private dog rescues as some dogs may be transported there. Grooming Your Golden Retriever German Shepherd German Shepherd mixed with Golden Retriever dogs require regular coat brushing because their coat tends to be tangled and matted together. Regular brushing promotes a shiny and healthy fur for this mixed breed. Here are some products that you might need for this pet. Pro Slicker Brush for Dogs and Cats This slicker brush either has a flat or curved head with lots of thin wire pins which help to untangle and shed loose fur. This mixed breed features a double-coat that requires constant brushing making this item a must-have for all dog owners. Dog nails can hurt other people or animals when they get playful. Sometimes, dogs snap their nails off unintentionally, and the pain can be excruciating for them. To use, gently hold their paws and snip off small bits of the toenails. Promptly discontinue if any bleeding occurs. Apart from the items suggested, bathing is one of the most important steps in pet care to remove unpleasant odors and dirt on their coat. When giving a bath, make use of dog shampoo to avoid accidental allergy attacks and fleas. This dog breed typically has large ears that can accumulate wax. Observe your dog for symptoms of ear problems; healthy dogs do not habitually bother their ears. Wax, dirt, and other elements may cause ear infections. For better cleaning and disinfection, use liquid ear cleaners and cotton balls. Golden Retriever mixed with German Shepherd dogs need regular trimming, so make it a habit to schedule appointments with your veterinary clinic at least once or twice a month. Make sure they get trimmed around the eye area for better vision , around the anus for hygiene , and the chin for easy eating. Mixed-breed dogs are ordinarily healthier than their parent breeds, yet this specific breed is more prone to certain health conditions than others. Most of these health problems are seen as the dog gets older. This breed enjoys being active and playing which can cause a harmful impact and damage on their bones and joints. Receiving an average level of activity would prevent them from having these problems. Here are some more health hazards that you need to be aware of: Allergies Both parent breeds are prone to allergies and German Shepherd Retriever Mixed dogs share this trait. Their common allergies mainly affect their skin and flea bites or certain foods typically cause these. Fleas are tiny parasites that dogs can accumulate from outdoors. You can prevent this by avoiding physical contact with environmental allergens. The symptoms include mouth or nose bleeding, blood in the urine, and excessive bleeding, and unfortunately, there is no cure yet. Joint Dysplasia In dogs with joint dysplasia, the joints fail to develop correctly, scraping and grinding upon each other instead of sliding smoothly. Bloating Bloating in humans and bloating in dogs are different. It is harmless in humans, however, in dogs it is deadly. Immediate treatment for bloat is needed. It would be best to take your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible because there is no first aid that you can do at home. Learning some first aids for this breed of dogs can also help. Awareness over these usual problems of the Golden Retriever crossed with German Shepherd breed will result to their proper care. Your furry friend should get the best, so pick their food wisely. You can find lots of options in the best dry dog food list. Whelps need energy to be active, which means lots of proteins too. Food that gives them everything their body needs is on the best puppy food brands list. Older canines have different requirements, so skim through the best senior dry dog food list. It will help them stay healthy and show off proudly. Steer clear of the worst dry dog food at all costs. You can also find some ideas on the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food lists, which may contain some food that your pooch will love. Because of their energetic personality, these dogs need a diet that can fulfill their nutrition needs. Dogs may be omnivores, but they highly rely on protein to survive. It is also the building block of their muscles. Although dogs love fat in their meals, it is necessary to maintain the amount of fat that you give them. Too much fat is harmful to their well-being and too little creates skin problems. Make sure that your dogs are hydrated, especially if you live in a hot place. Ingredients and supplements for joint and bone development are also needed to prevent possible injuries for this very active dog. Giving your dogs vegetables, fruits, and other minerals is proper for their growth. However, you need to be wary of the portions since it varies depending on their age and body size. Avoid products that contain these ingredients since they are not good sources of carbohydrates for dogs. The Golden Shepherd tends to be a friendly, energetic, and affectionate dog that is loyal to their family and tends to be protective of them. Although they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable organizations like the American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Breed Registry, and more. A Golden Shepherd tends to bring the all-around friendly personality of the Golden Retriever and the intelligence and devotion of the German Shepherd into one dog. They love their families and tend to get along with everyone including children. These dogs are not necessarily suspicious of strangers, but they are alert and will tend to bark if they see something they feel you need to know about. Golden Shepherds are moderately adaptable dogs. Because they are high-energy, they tend to do better in homes with yards where they can run. They can adapt to apartment living as long as plenty of time is dedicated to giving them the daily exercise they need. They tend to do well in most climates. But, as with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Because Golden Shepherds are devoted to their families and thrive on spending time with them, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. A mixed-breed dog can inherit the potential health issues common to one, both, or neither of their parent breeds. As a larger, barrel-chested dog breed, the Golden Shepherd, like their parent breeds, is also at a higher risk for bloat. The Golden Shepherd is a highly trainable dog breed. They are intelligent, eager to please, and pick up on things quickly. This makes them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Puppy training classes can still be a great idea because they offer opportunities to socialize a puppy while also strengthening your bond with them. The Golden Shepherd will have a thick double-coat that sheds moderately year-round and more heavily twice a year as seasons change. A quick daily brushing, especially during seasonal shedding sessions, will help remove loose fur to make your dog more comfortable and also help keep more fur contained to a brush instead of everywhere else. Bathing is on an occasional, as-needed basis. Monthly nail trims are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long or causing issues. Plus, if anything is starting to happen, you can get the vet before it gets more serious. Because many dog owners overlook this, gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal. The Golden Shepherd comes from two high-energy dogs, so they require a lot of daily exercise to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime and time to run are the minimum. But, a Golden Shepherd will likely be up for more activity if you are. A trip to the dog park for some off-leash time, playing frisbee or chasing a ball, hiking, swimming, running, and more can all help this dog expend some extra energy. You want to keep their activity low-impact as they are still growing, but once they finish growing, try different activities to see what you both love doing together. You could even try training them for dog sports! A fully-grown Golden Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. A Golden Shepherd generally lives for years. Currently, we do not have any Golden Shepherd puppies available, but we can alert you when new Golden Shepherd puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address! Related Breeds. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Golden retrievers and German shepherds are two of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Both medium-to-large dogs that are highly intelligent, easy to please, and great with families, it was only a matter of time before someone created the golden shepherd by mixing these two breeds. But what can you expect if you decide to adopt one of these amazing dogs into your family? Read on as I take you through exactly what you can expect from a golden retriever-German shepherd mix, including their size, appearance, temperament, and the care they need to thrive. Is the golden shepherd the right dog for you? Learn more below! Essential Statistics Breed: Mix of golden retriever and German shepherd Height: 21 — 26 inches Coat Type: Medium-long high shedding coat Colors: Black, cream, white, gold, yellow, brown, chocolate, liver Lifespan: 7 — 12 year lifespan Temperament: Highly intelligent, easy to train, playful, friendly, does well with families Exercise: High energy and exercise needs History Of The Breed Golden retrievers were first bred in the United Kingdom to retrieve shot waterfowl. Their soft mouths allow them to retrieve ducks and other game without damaging them. As a highly intelligent breed that is eager to please and with a naturally good nature and understanding of how to act around children, goldens have been popular working dogs since the s, and you will often see them working in search and rescue and disability assistance. German shepherds , also known as Alsatians, were first bred in Germany just before the start of the 20th century as herding dogs. When natural sheep predators began to die out in Germany at the start of the 20th century, German shepherds were taught to do other kinds of work. While German shepherds are not an aggressive breed, they developed a bad reputation in the 20th century when the German Nazi army started using them as working dogs. The breed was also adopted by gangsters and bootleggers in the United States. Fortunately, today, their reputation is largely recuperated, and they are often seen working with police and in roles such as search and rescue. Golden shepherds were first bred around .The intention with this mixed breed was to create a dog with the courage, quickness, and alertness of the German shepherd but also with the good nature of the golden retriever, which is also intelligent, highly trainable, and easy to please. The results are excellent working dogs and family pets. Golden retrievers are usually 21 to 25 inches tall and will usually be the mother in a first generation golden shepherd coupling. They weigh 55 to 75 pounds. German shepherds are slightly larger, measuring 22 to 26 inches tall and weighing 50 to 90 pounds. As you would expect, their golden shepherd offspring measure 21 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 90 pounds on average. Both parent dog breeds have medium-to-long coats that are known to be high-shedding, so you can expect the same from a golden shepherd. Being a mixed breed, they can come in an extensive range of colors, including black, cream, white, gold, yellow, brown, chocolate, and liver, and they will often be bicolor. The color of their coat tends to be highly unpredictable in the first generation. Because they are high-shedding, they do need regular grooming, which means brushing at least once a week to keep shedding under control. Still, there is no escaping all that dog hair, and you will definitely need to invest in a good vacuum cleaner. The way their facial features will develop is less predictable, since they are still a new breed and breeders are still learning to control for desirable features. They can also either have the pointed ears of a German shepherd or the drooping ears of a golden retriever. Either way, they are sure to be a gorgeous pup! Golden Shepherd Temperament And Intelligence Golden retrievers are known for being playful and friendly dogs that love everyone they meet and therefore make terrible guard dogs. They are playful and loyal to the family with whom they have developed a bond. While they can be wary of strangers or anything that seems out of place, they are more likely to alert you with a bark than attack. You can expect a golden shepherd to be playful and friendly, but a little bit warier of strangers than your standard golden retriever. Both parent breeds are highly intelligent and also eager to please. German shepherds, in particular, are also independent thinkers and problem solvers. This means golden shepherds are easy to train, as they learn new commands quickly and enjoy the rewards that come with completing them, but they are also good at knowing what is required of them in new circumstances. Golden shepherds, like both of their parent breeds, are incredibly loyal and will want to be around their people all the time, whether that is out and about, or curled up on the couch at home. This can lead to frustration and destructive behavior. They are naturally protective of children, and despite being large breed dogs, they are very aware of their own size and strength and know how to play gently with children. However, it could be a struggle to have this breed with very young children, as they have lots of playful energy, and this can be overwhelming for smaller folks. Golden Shepherd Energy And Exercise Golden shepherds, like both their parent breeds, are high-energy dogs. Additionally, golden shepherds need at least an hour of fairly intense exercise each day. This means running around the dog park and sniffing everything, playing catch, and going for a swim rather than just a casual walk. They should be getting less exercise as puppies, despite their apparent energy, as too much exercise can undermine their proper development. While they are growing, they should have about five minutes of exercise per day per month of age. So at four months, they need 20 minutes of exercise each day, and at six months, they need half an hour. As adult dogs, they will love joining you on longer adventures, such as hikes and boat trips and will have no problem keeping up. Bear in mind that, while they are natural swimmers, if you go out on a boat, they should be wearing a flotation vest. As well as formal exercise, they need to be able to move around and play throughout the day, and a decent-sized backyard is the best thing for this. Golden Shepherd Health Concerns Of course, when you adopt a dog into your family, you will want to closely monitor and care for their health. This means ensuring they are vaccinated for all the most transmissible canine diseases, such as Parvo , protection against fleas and ticks , and proper dental care, which ideally means daily brushing. But certain dog breeds are also more susceptible to certain health conditions than others. With mixed breeds, they could be less susceptible to some of the most common ailments of their parent breeds, or they could be more susceptible to certain conditions. The best thing to do is inform yourself about the common health issues for both parent breeds and monitor your puppy for all of them. This means for golden shepherds, you will want to be on the lookout for: Elbow and hip dysplasia, common in both parent breeds Eye conditions, common in both parent breeds Bloating gastric dilation volvulus , common in both parent breeds Epilepsy, common in German shepherds Allergies, common in golden retrievers Hypothyroidism, common in golden retrievers Degenerative myelopathy hemangiosarcoma, common in German shepherds Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, common in German shepherds Of course, just because some dog breeds are more susceptible to these conditions does not mean they will get any of them, and your golden shepherd could pass their entire 7-toyear lifespan without being affected by any of these. But if you know the symptoms, you can catch any problems early and ensure a better quality of life for your dog. One other health concern with both the parent breeds of golden shepherds is obesity. They love their food, and we love to reward them with delicious treats. Remember, every treat you give them also contains calories! Also, never feed them off your own plate. They already tend to think they are human, and this can just lead to begging at the table and food theft! Plus, a lot of the foods humans eat are toxic to dogs. This not only includes chocolate and fake sugar, but also common kitchen staples such as onion and garlic. Invest in good quality food for your dog and avoid giving them table scraps. No doubt having read my guide you are interested in bringing a fantastic golden shepherd into your family. These are the questions you should ask yourself to determine whether you are a good fit for this unique breed. Do you have an active lifestyle? Your dog is going to need lots of exercise and is happiest when they can accompany their humans in energetic activities. Are you out of the house a lot? Golden shepherds love company and need to be around their people most of the time. They need a home where there is usually someone about or where they can accompany someone to work. Do you have much space? Golden shepherds thrive when they have space to use their energy, and they are fairly big, so they can make a small apartment feel claustrophobic. Are you willing to accept dog hair as a part of life? Are you a first-time owner? Golden shepherds are easy to train and control, so they are actually great choices for first-time owners. Do you have kids or other pets? Golden shepherds are great around kids and other pets if they are properly socialized. But these big dogs with lots of energy could be challenging if you have very small children. Let these questions guide you as to whether a golden shepherd is the right dog for you. In short, if you are low on space, time, or energy, a different breed might be a better match. If you find a breeder selling for less than this, be wary, as you may be dealing with a puppy mill. You may also find golden shepherds in your local shelter , because despite being amazing and pliable dogs, their energy and attention and exercise needs often prove too much for some owners. What do you think of the golden shepherd? Does it mix the best aspects of the German shepherd and golden retriever? Is this the kind of dog you would like to adopt? Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

Mixed breeds came up a few decades ago when the dog-lover community desired 2-in-1 mixes of their favorite dogs, similar to the Cowboy Corgi that is a Cardigan Welsh Corgi mix. One of the most popular breeds, the Golden Retriever hailed from the highlands of Scotland to be hunting dogs with a sweet temperament. One of the most notable Goldie lovers is president Gerald Ford, and the breed has become more popular since then. They were primarily used as farm dogs, but due to their impressive strength, Bernese Mountain Dogs could also be used as draft dogs. These fluffy, sparkly-eyed dogs have powerful physiques and thick, silky, medium-length coats. These dogs often have tricolored coats. The most common colors are black, brown, and brindle, with white on the face, chest, and feet. Golden Mountain Dogs can have droopy lips like the Bernese dogs, floppy ears, and a medium-sized muzzle. The fluffy, dense, double-coat sheds significantly, making the dog unsuitable to people allergic to pet dander. This gentle canine is perfect for owners who prefer dogs with a considerable size. Help Dogs In Need Our blog posts aim to provide comprehensive, accurate, and objective information on all types of dogs, helping our readers make informed choices that fit their lifestyle. We don't endorse any specific breeding practices, but advocate for ethical breeding and dog welfare. We encourage exploring adoption first. Countless wonderful dogs, from all breeds, await their forever homes in shelters. Remember, with AdoptDontShop, you can give a deserving rescue a second chance at happiness. Shedding: The thick, double-coat sheds daily and more heavily during spring and fall. Exercise: Moderate energy, so they require daily exercise for 30 to 60 minutes. Housing: A home with a yard would be best, but they can adapt to apartments with enough exercise. Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, and merry dogs that can be both calm and playful depending on the day. Trainability: Intelligent dogs that are eager to please, making them easily trainable. Energy Golden Mountain Dogs are huge energy fluff balls that are happy to accompany you for hikes and runs. Daily walks for at least 30 minutes or one hour, preferably, keep them at their happiest physically and mentally. Exercise These dogs have moderate exercise requirements. Being intelligent dogs, ensure you give them mental stimulation using food puzzles , Kongs, and sniffing exercises. Knowing how to keep your dog active indoors can really help with this breed. Housing These dogs are best for homes with a yard because of their sizes and energy requirements. They can also do well in apartments, provided you give them ample mental and physical exercise. The breed can be prone to excessive weight gain, so you must stay moderate with treats and watch how much they eat. Eating too much can cause severe issues for this fast-growing breed that already has to deal with too much strain on their joints. As large dogs, this Golden Retriever mix can be susceptible to bloat. Here, gas builds up in the stomach, pushing it against the diaphragm, and making it hard for your dog to breathe. The Golden Retriever and the Bernese Mountain Dog may be prone to taurine-deficient dilated cardiomyopathy , a severe heart disease. This means they may need extra taurine and the amino acid methionine in their diet. Beware of grain-free dog food linked to this disease. They have a medium-length double coat that needs thorough brushing with a pin brush at least 2 to 3 times per week to reduce house shedding and distribute coat oils for a silky coat. Regular teeth brushing at least three times a week prevents dental issues like periodontitis due to tartar buildup. Severe health problems Heart issues such as subvalvular aortic stenosis or dilated cardiomyopathy. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Our Golden Mountains are the perfect family dogs, loyal like the Bernese and sweet like the Golden Retriever. They are considered to be a large to giant sized breed of dog. They can be up to 26 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 65 to pounds. They are extremely well-natured due to the characteristics of their parents. These are ideal family dogs as they are easy-going, quick learners, confident, and very friendly. They also make good working dogs for hauling things and helping on a farm but also things such as therapy dogs, service dogs, guide dogs, and sniffer dogs. Golden Mountains are highly intelligent dogs and are very easy to train. Like all dogs they should be trained with positive reinforcement and you will notice they require fewer repetitions to catch on to a new command or trick. It is better to brush them a few times a week or every day to keep it smooth and reduce shedding. Brushing your dog can be a good bonding activity and an activity your kids could engage in. They have an average energy level and enjoy going on jogs or hiking adventures, but they also enjoy cuddle time! They adapt easily to the owners lifestyle and will live to please you. It is good to crate train your dog for bedtime and when you leave the house so that it can get used to being separated from the family some and not end up suffering from separation anxiety. We are one of the only breeders in the United States and we have had our puppies go to every corner of the U. A If you are looking for a well mannered and laid back big dog to add to the family the Golden Mountain Dog is the dog for you. Previous Siblings. However, the depending on the species you want to cross breed, you can make the most out of this deal. Besides, a lot of these breeders already include full training of the dog. Since this breed is known for significant hair shedding, you need to brush the coat twice a week to prevent hair falling around the floor and furniture, as well as keep the coat neat and organized. If you do not take the dog to a regular ear cleaning, this might cause ear infection in the days to come. You also need to give the dog weekly teeth cleaning. This will reduce bad breath and tartar. If its nails are too long, it could injure in the long run or damage the house floor. It still lies on how well the dog was bred. So, how do you protect yourself from getting an ill Bernese Mountain Dog? Check to see if the parents of the dog had health issues. With that, I also recommend providing the regular dog exercise. With that, it is essential to look for dog food that can provide them with all the nutrients they need without adding too much fat to their body. Here are some notes to remember with regards to feeding your Golden Retriever crossed Bernese Mountain Dog Golden Retriever Mix: You need to keep your dog in a puppy diet for over a year since large breeds take more time to grow to its mature size in comparison to other dogs. Avoid giving your dog too much water one hour within a meal to prevent stomach illnesses. To start you off with your journey as a Bernese Mountain Dog owner, here is a list of good dog food you can give your new pet: Nutro Natural Large Breed Young Adult Dog Food The Nutro company is known for providing only the finest ingredients when it comes to dog food. What makes this brand more remarkable is that this particular dog food model is designed specifically for large breeds. The top two ingredients of this dog food are chicken and chicken meal. What follows after that is whole brown rice topped up with other healthy ingredients. Fromm Family Large Breed Adult Gold For over years, Fromm had been practicing its dedication to the health and wellness of dogs in different breeds and sizes. Just like Nutro, this one is made out of chicken and chicken meal as among its top ingredients. The only difference is that this dog food is also topped with duck. What follows these top three ingredients are oatmeal, brown rice, and pearled barley. Not only is it made out of fresh ingredients, but it also has a unique food formula. Among its top ingredients are dried potatoes, venison meal, and chicken fat. Dried eggs, apples, carrots, and spinach, are some more of the notable ingredients in this dog food. You can accomplish your mission by making sure their bowl is filled with the best food you could find. Vigorous puppies should get food that suits their needs, so check out the best puppy food brands. Food for older furry pals needs to contain below-average calories and adequate protein levels, which you can find at the best senior dry dog food brands. Your pooch takes the genes from two parents, so you can try your luck with best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. A checkup with your vet can help you make the best decision. This happens due to their laid-back nature. They are not the type of animal that would voluntarily run around the house. You typically need to give your dog at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. However, since the Bernese of Mixed Mountain Dog crossbreed with Golden Retriever is known to be a weight gainer, it is highly recommended that you settle for about minutes daily. To keep your dog in top condition, you need to let it mingle with people. Consider taking the dog to the park for a good game or frisbee, take it swimming, or hiking. But what if you were to take a Bernese Mountain puppy? Since puppies are more energetic than adult dogs, you need to keep it occupied most of the time. Otherwise, it might cause chaos and destruction in your yard. Golden Retriever Crossed with Bernese Mountain Dog Training The most critical thing in dog training is for the trainer to have sufficient patience, especially in the case of Bernese Mountain Dogs with Golden Retriever breed. Dog training takes commitment and time. So before beginning the training, you need to set yourself in the mood for it. Always be ahead of the dog you are teaching. Reward good behavior and punish bad ones. Make all the training sessions short. Train your dog immediately the moment you take it home. Teach the dog the stop sign Another critical point in dog training is the stop signage. When you hold your fingers in a certain way, it should signal your dog to stop. The reason you prioritize this sign among others is that you want to teach your dog to stop biting and chewing your things at home. Once you have taught your dog how to stop, it will be much easier for you to tell him to lie down, sit, stand, or speak. They are easy to please. They love to play with children outdoors. They are friendly, not only with children but also with other pets. They are alert and intelligent. The dog can cheer you up after a tiring day at work. Loves playing out in the sun, but can also fare in colder temperatures. No matter how old they get, they will still try to clammer to your arms like they are still a puppy. Life Span Did You Know? Although a mixed-breed dog can take on any combination of traits from one or both of the parent breeds, there are some general traits you can expect in a Golden Mountain Dog. This designer dog breed tends to be a large, friendly, and affectionate family dog who is an absolute sweetheart. As a cross between two of the friendliest and sweetest dog breeds, a Golden Mountain Dog tends to have a sweet, gentle nature and an open, friendly, and playful personality. They get along well with just about everyone including children, other dogs, and other pets in the household. These dogs do tend to have a high prey drive, so they will likely need some extra socialization with smaller pets in the family. Bernese Golden Mountain Dogs are loyal. They bond closely with their families and love nothing more than to spend time with their favorite humans. They also tend to be open and friendly with strangers. Bernese Golden Mountain Dogs are moderately adaptable dogs. Because of their large size and high energy levels, they do not tend to be a great fit for apartments. They could adapt to an apartment, but there would need to be ample time dedicated daily to making sure they get the exercise they need. But, they are best-suited to homes with fenced yards where they can run and play freely. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Due to their thick coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates. Their high prey drive often means they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Because they bond so closely with their families, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. As with any mixed breed, the Golden Mountain Dog can inherit the potential health concerns related to one, both, or neither of their parent breeds. They can also be prone to allergies. As a large dog breed, the Golden Mountain Dog will be at a higher risk of bloat. You can also ask to see relevant health clearances or test results. The Bernese Golden Mountain Dog is a highly intelligent dog that is eager to please their owners. This means they tend to be easy to train and they pick up on things quickly. This makes them a great fit for owners of all experience levels. Puppy training classes can still be a good idea as they tend to offer a lot of opportunities to socialize a puppy. A Golden Mountain Dog is a fluffy dog that sheds regularly year-round. Their coat ranges from medium to long in length. You may be able to get away with brushing a few times a week, but daily brushing is better to remove loose fur, work out tangles, and prevent mats. Trimming nails monthly is usually enough to keep them from growing too long. Ear infections are one of the most common health problems in dogs. And, dogs with floppy ears are more prone to them because their ears tend to trap more dirt and moisture. Many dog owners overlook this, which is why gum disease is another one of the most common health issues in dogs. Bernese Golden Mountain Dogs are high-energy dogs that need a lot of daily exercise to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus some playtime and extra activity are usually sufficient for this dog. But, they will likely be up for more activity if you are. They are also athletic, sturdy, and versatile dogs, so try different activities with them to see what you both enjoy doing the most. You can try taking them swimming or hiking with you, taking trips to the dog park, playing frisbee , and more. You can even try training them for dog sports like agility, obedience, and more. A fully-grown Bernese Golden Mountain Dog usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. A Golden Mountain Dog generally lives years. Although this designer breed is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable dog organizations. Currently, we do not have any Bernese Golden Mountain Dog puppies available, but we can alert you when new Bernese Golden Mountain Dog puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address!

Christina Tuesday 18th of April You say to expect to pay a lot for a well bred merle Frenchie from a reputable breeder but there is no such thing. If a breeder breeds Merle frenchies then that proves they are nor a reputable breeder, and it's not a well bred dog. It's not even a frenchie. The only way to get a Merle is to cross breed with a breed that naturally carries Merle Claire Johnson Sunday 28th of May Christina, these is no such thing as a well bred merle Frenchie. The terms are mutually exclusive. There are numerous health issues associated with this color. Do your research. This article even says that there's more health problems associated with Merle. So how is it a lie? Also please don't dilute the term gaslight. If you don't know what it means please don't use it. A purpose bred mutt is one thing. But cross breeding with a breed that already has substantial health issues to get a not naturally occurring colour associated with even more health issues does NOTHING to benefit the breed. It is irresponsible, has a hugely negative impact on the breeds longevity, and dilutes the breed so preservation is more of an issue. Buying Merle frenchies is is just paying way too much for a mutt, that's likely gonna have a rough life, and it supports backyard breeding which should be made illegal at this point. If you want a Merle dog, get a breed where Merle is naturally occurring. Christina Tuesday 18th of April Renee, if it's Merle, it's not a frenchie. Frenchies can't be Merle without crossbreeding. You esentially have a backyard bred mutt. There's no such thing as a well bred Merle frenchie. And no reputable breeder will breed designer colours not naturally occurring in the breed. I own 2 beautiful French Bulldog merles and they are healthy and sweet. I wasn't looking for a merle but based on their disposition and excellent health I couldn't go home with one. I am not breeding or showing but only loving them crazy. FrenchieWiki Community. While Merle is a naturally occurring color in many dog breeds, Frenchies are not one of them. History and Origins Merle French Bulldogs share the same history as normal Frenchies up until they had the Merle gene introduced. Many lace workers from Nottingham, England, relocated to France for better job opportunities during the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century. They brought their toy-sized Bulldogs with them, which quickly gained popularity among the locals, especially in Paris. These Bulldogs became a fashion statement and were favored by French society, including artists, writers, and nobles. Soon, breeders added other breeds for specific traits, like the Rat Terrier for the signature upright bat ears and the Pug for the shorter snout. By the late 19th century, the French Bulldog had become a beloved companion dog and was recognized as a separate breed from the English Bulldog. However, remember that Merle is not an acceptable color to the AKC. Therefore, there two basic ways that breeders created Merle Frenchies, Modern cross-breeding with merle-carrying breeds like Cardigan Corgis, Miniature American Shepherd or Dachshunds to introduce the merle gene and have merle Frenchie mixed breeds. This way, even if two Frenchies are used during breeding, a dog with natural Merle, like the Catahoula Leopard dog, was added at some point. To have a merle dog, one of the parents of the dog must be merle, so it this implies that in most cases, breeders bred their French Bulldogs intentionally to get the sought-after color. Some sources on the internet claim that merle Frenchies are the result of a cross between a Frenchie and merle Chihuahua. The problem with this is that Chihuahuas do not naturally carry a merle gene either. Merle French Bulldogs have unique fur patterns and eye colors ranging from blue, green, or brown. They may have one blue and one brown eye, although eyes of two different colors is disqualified in their breed standard. In terms of body structure, merle French Bulldogs typically exhibit the same compact and muscular build as other French Bulldogs. They have a sturdy, medium-sized frame with a broad chest, well-developed shoulders, and a thick, powerful neck. Their legs are short and muscular, supporting their body and giving them a low-to-the-ground appearance. Just like the long hair that distinguishes Fluffy Frenchies, the unique and captivating Merle coat pattern adds an extra element of visual appeal to their appearance. Due to their rare colorings, Merle French Bulldogs have become an attractive option for disreputable breeders trying to make money from the rare color. The merle Frenchie is not hypoallergenic and they are prone to shedding throughout the year. On average, Merle French Bulldogs stand between 11 to 12 inches 28 to 30 cm tall at the shoulder. The weight of a merle French Bulldog usually ranges between 16 to 28 pounds 7 to 13 kg. Help Dogs In Need Our blog posts aim to provide comprehensive, accurate, and objective information on all types of dogs, helping our readers make informed choices that fit their lifestyles. We encourage exploring adoption first. Countless wonderful dogs from all breeds await their forever homes in shelters. Remember, with AdoptDontShop. You can give a deserving rescue a second chance at happiness. Help Dogs In Need Our blog posts aim to provide comprehensive, accurate, and objective information on all types of dogs, helping our readers make informed choices that fit their lifestyle. We don't endorse any specific breeding practices, but advocate for ethical breeding and dog welfare. Countless wonderful dogs, from all breeds, await their forever homes in shelters. Remember, with AdoptDontShop, you can give a deserving rescue a second chance at happiness. How Do Merle Frenchies Behave? Merle French Bulldog Temperament Merle French Bulldogs are typically happy, friendly, affectionate, and social but alert and even-tempered dogs. These pups thrive on being the center of attention and are impressively attuned to your emotions, making them extremely empathetic. These pups may not be the easiest dogs to train, as they rank out of in working and obedience intelligence. Still, their giant personalities make up for the extra patience and commitment you may need to train them. They are sensitive dogs and do not do well with harsh treatment. The standard merle coat pattern has two main features: a lighter base color like blue or gray and random patches of darker color. In addition to the standard merle, there are two other merle variations: dilute and harlequin. Dilute merles have a softer dilution of the coat color without any distinct dark patches. On the other hand, harlequin merles have a white base coat with big patches of darker merle color. Double merle French Bulldogs are more likely to have vision and hearing impairments, such as partial or complete deafness and eye abnormalities. This is because the merle gene affects the development of the inner ear and the pigmentation of the eye, making them more susceptible to these issues. These can include vision and hearing difficulties, skin sensitivities, and digestive troubles. A study showed that dogs with the Merle allele have a 0. Skin problems are many and varied, from a tendency toward allergies, to color dilution alopecia or hair loss. Frenchies with this condition keep coughing like they have something stuck and find it hard to breathe. Except for blindness and deafness, these dogs are also at risk of diseases like: Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome— A study showed that Frenchies are 39 times more likely to contract airway syndrome. Respiratory illnesses due to the shortened snout, sometimes causing dry heaving in the breed. Eye problems, with signs like pink bumps around the eye , are rampant in this breed. Degenerative Myelopathy affects the spine, causing muscle weakness and lack of coordination. Research has shown that flat-faced breeds like Frenchies are at the highest risk. Mild to moderate issues like obesity, allergies, stomach sensitivity, and dental problems. To ensure good health, vets should do regular check-ups to detect potential issues early. To keep them fine, you must supply the appropriate amount of physical exertion and mental stimulation. Training: Positive reinforcement is great for Merle French Bulldogs. Consistency is essential when training these doggos, as they can be obstinate. Obedience training, socialization with other dogs, and leash training should be factored in. Exercise: These furballs need moderate daily exercise to avert obesity and health issues. They need short walks for 30 to 45 minutes and indoor and yard workouts. But their short snouts and sensitive respiratory systems make them prone to overheating, so take care. Mental Stimulation: Alongside physical exercise, Merle French Bulldogs need mental stimulation like puzzle toys or interactive games to ward off monotony which can lead to aggressive conduct. Be careful when exercising Merle French Bulldogs, considering their delicate respiratory systems. Still, they are active and lively dogs that need loads of love and communication from their owners. Have your dog checked for underlying health issues, since problems like liver, kidney, or hearts issues all need specialized diets. Ask a vet before changing food. It is also possible that Merle French Bulldogs may have allergies or sensitivities. If you see any odd signs or symptoms, contact a veterinarian. Cleaning any wrinkles is necessary to prevent infections due to water and debris trapped in the wrinkles. Baths Bathing supports coat health, hygiene, and comfort. Aim to bathe these dogs monthly with quality shampoo and dry them thoroughly to prevent them from itching after grooming. Other grooming Eye issues can be prevented with regular eye wiping with an eye solution. Clean ears once or twice a week with dog ear wipes to reduce ear infections. Trim nails with the right dog nail cutter to keep them comfortable on walks. Merle Frenchies are excellent with kids but must be monitored around kids to avoid accidents. They behave well around other animals, especially if properly socialized. Socialization is important for Frenchies as they can be quite feisty and tenacious. Pros: They are cuddly and love to play, making them perfect family pets. Their eye-catching coat patterns are unique. Moderate exercise and adaptable to both city and country living. Cons: Certain health issues like deafness and eye problems come with their genes. Their flat faces can lead to breathing issues. The cost depends on many factors, such as genetics, breeders, availability, and location. Be wary of dogs offered on websites like craigslist. Merle French Bulldogs can have health issues like deafness and eye deformities. So, research the breed, color, and any possible breeders thoroughly before deciding to get one. Yes, Merle French Bulldogs are considered rare, and their price can be significantly higher than other French Bulldog varieties. This is true even if merle is not recognized French Bulldog color. Do Merle French Bulldogs have many health issues? The Merle gene can increase the risk of health problems such as deafness, blindness, and skin problems in French Bulldogs. Therefore, it is essential to buy from a reputable breeder who can ensure good health outcomes. They bark only when they feel they have to to alert you of something. They may also bark when bored or feeling lonely. Merle Frenchies live for about 10 to 12 years. This pup has become a favorite among pet lovers around the world. Owning a Merle French Bulldog requires extra attention. They are small and delicate, so health issues can arise if not cared for properly. But, having a Merle French Bulldog can be very rewarding. They are loving, faithful, and full of fun. They make wonderful companions for families and individuals alike. Tamsin De La Harpe Author Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs. Got Questions? Sundays Food For Dogs This is an air-dried food. It has the convenience of kibble just pour it in the bow but is much much healthier. There are a number of air-dried foods on the market. My dogs tested 3 of them. You can see the results of the air-dried food test here. We Feed Raw. This raw food for dogs comes delivered to your home is perfectly sized portions for your pup. They primarily source their ingredients from trusted U. These ingredients are sourced from New Zealand, where some of the highest-quality and most ethically raised venison and lamb can be found. For a limited time, when you buy one month you get a second month free. What are Merle French Bulldogs? Merle French Bulldogs are a color variation within the French Bulldog breed, characterized by a mottled or blotchy pattern on their coat. The merle gene causes variations in coat color and can result in unique patterns, such as blue, silver, or chocolate markings. Are Merle French Bulldogs rare? Yes, Merle French Bulldogs are considered rare due to the specific genetic combination required to produce the merle coat pattern. Can Merle French Bulldogs have blue eyes? Yes, some Merle French Bulldogs may have blue eyes. Blue eyes are a result of the merle gene interacting with other genetic factors. How can I find reputable Merle French Bulldog breeders? Look for breeders who prioritize the health and temperament of their dogs, perform health tests, and provide a clean and caring environment for their puppies. The registration of Merle French Bulldogs can vary depending on the kennel club and its policies. Some kennel clubs may allow registration of Merle French Bulldogs, while others may not recognize them due to concerns about health issues associated with the merle gene. The American Kennel club does not recognize frenchies with the merle pattern as an official French bulldogs, as it does not meet the breed standards. Is it necessary to feed Merle French Bulldogs a raw dog food diet? Merle French Bulldogs may be prone to certain health issues associated with the merle gene, such as deafness, eye abnormalities, and skin sensitivities. Responsible breeders conduct genetic health testing to minimize the risk of these conditions. Some kennel clubs may not allow Merle French Bulldogs to compete due to concerns about the genetic health issues associated with the merle gene. Check the competition guidelines for clarity. How should I feed my Merle French Bulldog puppy? Feeding your Merle French Bulldog puppy a balanced and nutritious diet is crucial for their overall health. Consider high-quality puppy dog food or a raw dog food diet or here are several Vet-Approved Homemade Puppy Food Recipes How is the merle color created in French Bulldogs? To create the merle color in a Frenchie, breeders usually crossbreed with a different breed, commonly merle chihuahuas, to get the gene they are looking for. This means that merle Frenchies may not be a pure breed Where did the merle gene originate? The merle gene is believed to have originated in certain herding breeds, such as Border Collies and Australian Shepherds. Over time, this gene has been introduced into other breeds through crossbreeding. In the case of French Bulldogs, the merle gene may have been introduced through intentional or unintentional crossbreeding with other breeds carrying the merle gene. What should I feed my Merle French Bulldog puppy? A raw dog food diet can be beneficial for your Merle French Bulldog puppy. A raw dog food diet typically consists of muscle meat often still on the bone , bones either whole or ground , organ meats such as livers and kidneys , raw eggs, vegetables like broccoli, spinach, and celery , apples or other fruit, and some dairy such as yogurt. What are some different color varieties of Merle French Bulldogs? Frenchies with a merle coat come in a range of colors including Blue Merle and Lilac Merle. The blue base coat color has more of a blue tint than a true blue color and is very unique against the darker patches of pigment. Lilac hue comes from a combination of the brown and blue coat colors. The blue coat is further diluted, creating a beautiful, unique coat with a slight lilac appearance What is a Harlequin Merle French Bulldog? A Harlequin Merle French Bulldog is a color variation that combines the harlequin and merle coat patterns. These dogs have a marbled or splotchy coat with larger patches of color and may exhibit variations in shades and markings. What is a Cryptic Merle French Bulldog? A Cryptic Merle French Bulldog, also known as a hidden merle or phantom merle, refers to a dog that carries the merle gene but does not display the typical merle coat pattern. These dogs may have a solid coat color, but they carry the potential to produce merle offspring when bred with another merle. Can White Merle French Bulldogs exist? No, White Merle French Bulldogs do not exist. The merle gene affects the distribution of pigment in the coat, resulting in variations of color and pattern, but it does not produce a completely white coat. Merle French Bulldogs may have white markings or patches in their coat, but they are not entirely white. What is a Tweed Merle French Bulldog? A Tweed Merle French Bulldog refers to a specific variation of the merle coat pattern that resembles a tweed fabric. Merles are primarily known for their unique markings, a genetic expression of the M-locus or Merle gene which causes random skin pigmentation and lightens their eye color. They come in a variety of colors and range in spectrums of white, grey and black, white and beige, dark brown, beige and white and mixes of greys and Beiges together. The lilac genetics are expressed in the flash of red in there light blue colored eyes and a combination of chocolate and blue base color in their coats. Black, tan and fawn make up the black Merle and they often have brown eyes or blue eyes. On occasion, a combination of both will express itself where you will see one brown eye and one blue eye or a streak of one color inside the other. Genetically they come from the black Merle whose color base has been diluted to create a blue hue. Health of Merle Bulldogs French Bulldogs like all other breeds have certain health risks. For a golden retriever it is hip displasia. For a french bulldog it is a vulnerable back that encourages good practices for their owners to have stairs in place always at sites where dogs should not be jumping from such as a high bed or couch. It has been rumored that Merle french bulldogs are less healthy than standard french bulldogs. This would only be true if poor breeding practices are exercised. That would be breeding one Merle dog to another. Common problems include blindness and deafness as well as chronic allergies, immune disorders, heart murmurs and hip dysplasia. A responsible breeder will tell you about this. Additionally to encourage better health throughout a dogs life Feeding your dog a raw diet and giving them NuVet supplements are required by our standards. In general a raw diet has been proven to lengthen life span. Also not spaying and neutering before the age of six and preserving hormones will encourage longer life. Merle is not a color, its a pattern. There are some patterns recreated by breeders that have become popular and also despised upon by other breeders. Merle French bulldogs are such dogs whose pattern has become very popular due to its rarity and the diversity of patterns. The gene alters the color of the dogs and creates patterns over patterns and this creates mottled patches in the colors of the litter. Also, the gene modifies the color of the eyes nose and the paw pads. Blue eyes are common in these dogs and also an odd colored set of eyes can also be present. No Merle dog will be the same as the patterns will always differ along with the color. There are three types of genes that the dog can carry. Breeders take advantage of the availability of French Bulldogs in up to 20 twenty different colors. They then create a rare, low maintenance dog. Merle is one of the most expensive colors of French bulldogs out there and one of the rarest. Merle French bulldogs are not pure breeds. The color is a mix of other patterns mixed together by careful selection and breeding. If the breeder messes up on the color combination, the puppies can come out unhealthy and weak with birth defects. No French bulldog has the merle gene and therefore, Merle French bulldogs are not purebred. Many dog breeds have this gene, however, Chihuahuas are used to introduce this gene in the French bulldog family. Some breeders can also crossbreed the puppies to create a purebred Merle French bulldog. The pattern depends on the gene dilution as there are variations in the pattern of these dogs. Blue, black, lavender are some of the colors which are diluted with the merle gene. These dogs are very rare and are sought out for all over the world. Color variations Blue merle French Bulldog Blue merle French Bulldogs are one of our most sought-after puppies of all the colors. They got their name after the blue patches on their light-colored coat, which are essentially grey with a bluish shine in the light. The shade of the grey parts may vary from very light to almost black, while their base color also ranges from a yellowish cream color to light grey. Lilac merle French Bulldog Lilac merle French Bulldogs are often mistaken for blue merle Frenchies, but they are much more unique and harder to come by. Lilac merle Frenchies have very light, almost ashy or silver colored patches on their light coat. To produce this rare and beautiful color, the parents have to carry the blue, chocolate and merle gene. Lilac merle French Bulldogs usually have light-colored eyes which are glowing red. Chocolate merle French Bulldog Chocolate merle French Bulldogs have dark brown mottled patches all over their light-colored bodies. Choco merle pups also have unique genetics so they are quite rare and hard to come by. Similarly to lilac Frenchies, they are the combination of blue and chocolate but their grey shade is more of a champagne color. Breeders have managed to mix in the merle gene as well producing the Isabella merle French Bulldog, but these dogs are extremely rare. Black merle French Bulldog Black merle French Bulldogs have black mottled patches often covering most of their bodies. Their base coat is also slightly darker than in other merle Frenchies, ranging from light grey to light brown. Fawn merle French Bulldog There are a number of different variations of fawn merle French Bulldogs, like blue fawn merle, lilac fawn merle or chocolate fawn merle. The dark patches these Frenchies have are less distinct looking than in other merles, as they are only a bit darker than their light fawn base color. One of these rare traits is their sparkling blue eyes. Since the merle gene affects the skin pigment as well, when a merle patch crosses the eye area the Frenchie will have bright forever blue eyes. Sometimes only one of the eyes will remain blue, which is a phenomenon called heterochromia. Because of how dominant the merle gene is, merle Frenchies should only be bred to a dog with a solid coat color. They are insanely affectionate making them the perfect companion dogs, they just want to spend every minute of their time with their owners. They are extremely friendly with kids and other animals too; they love basically anyone they meet! Thanks to their easy-going nature, a Merle Frenchie will adapt to your lifestyle very quickly no matter where you live. As you might expect, colors that are considered common for the breed have the lowest prices, while colors which are more unique and harder to produce are more expensive as well. When it comes to Merle French Bulldogs, they are already in a higher price range, but depending on the color variation their prices may further vary a lot. Permanent blue eyes also push the prices up a bit: we charge USD per blue eye.

Whether your dog is fearful of strangers or everything or exhibits sudden fear without apparent reason, there are ways to provide support and comfort. As a pet owner, you can make a significant difference in helping your scared dog overcome their fears. Turn worry into wonder with our app! Download the Zigzag app today to get your puppy training journey off to the best start you can have. Photo by Michelle Tresemer on Unsplash What makes my dog afraid of things? Dogs can be afraid of things due to different reasons. It could be a lack of early socialisation, genetics, or prior negative experiences such as trauma, stress or pain. This period is when they are most receptive to having positive reactions to new experiences. You guessed it; this makes it the perfect time to wisely and gently introduce them to new things. When a dog misses out on early socialisation, they can become fearful of these new experiences, and it can take a lot of time and work to help them overcome their fear. Would have been better to ease into them earlier. For example, a bad grooming experience, being forcefully shut in a crate or left alone for too long, can make your dog afraid of these things and become more scared of being repeatedly exposed to them. Whether through injury, illness, dominance aversive-based training methods or by associating pain with certain experiences, they can all contribute to a dog feeling scared. Fear periods Often overlooked, fear periods are those times when your puppy is suddenly afraid of that carrier bag dancing down the street or a rubbish bin clattering. Fear periods are actually quite interesting and worth learning about; our article here will explain it all. Changes in routine Dogs thrive on routines and the dependability of knowing what will happen next. Therefore, sudden changes can cause fear and anxiety, causing your dog to become easily scared or worried. Some breeds are predisposed to being slightly more fearful or cautious due to their genetic makeup, like Chihuahuas or German Shepherds , for example. On top of that, certain lines within breeds can be more likely to be naturally more fearful. As you see, just like with humans, dogs carry emotional baggage. Photo by Dominik QN on Unsplash Common things that dogs are scared of There are common things that dogs, puppies and rescue dogs are typically afraid of. In general, these are things that jump up without warning, they are loud or erratic. Turn fear into a thing of the past with our app! So at the end of the day, we could say kudos to them. Loud noises Dogs have sensitive hearing and are often scared of loud noises because it activates their startle response. A common fear in dogs is fireworks , but other loud noises they can be scared of are thunderstorms, gunshots, and even cars backfiring. Quite frankly, gunshots should startle everybody. Children Children can be scary for dogs, they are unpredictable, smell funny, often have sticky fingers and can move in strange ways. Dogs who are not socialised to babies and children from a young age, or who have had a negative experience where a child has been allowed to over-handle or pick them up, can make them scared of them. But everybody knows they can be a lot sometimes. Just ask your mother. This fear can also extend to being scared of dogs who look very different to them. For example, wolf-shaped dogs like German Shepherds to brachycephalic fancy word for flat-faced dogs may seem rather scary. It works the other way around too! The body language of different dogs can also seem scary. Some breeds are more likely to stare or hold their tail up in a way that can seem threatening to your dog. They are social creatures, after all, and as puppies are almost programmed to want to be with people as we make them feel safe. Rescue dogs in particular, have had a lot of changes and can also struggle with separation. Photo by Razvan Sassu on Unsplash Why is my dog scared of everything all of a sudden? There could be several reasons why your dog is suddenly afraid of things. Dogs communicate with their body language. This can be due to fear but can also relate to excitement. Whining, barking or howling — This might be barking AT something to make them go away, or barking, whining or howling as a self-soothing response to make themselves feel better, or get your attention. Sneezing — Sneezing is often a stress signal in dogs Our full guides to puppy body language and puppy behaviour: an overview will help you learn more about this. How can I help my dog become less scared of everything? A training plan is key to making your dog feel safe and confident when exposing them to new experiences and environments. Your training plan should involve management , positive reinforcement training with desensitisation and counter-conditioning. This might sound tricky, but our guides will help you through it. Socialisation classes Puppy socialisation classes are great for teaching your puppy that being in a strange place with strange things happening means wonderful things. Puppy classes have the advantage that everything is done in a managed way — some even offer off-lead puppy play, which is fantastic. Read our guide to finding a good puppy socialisation class to learn more about them. Positive reinforcement training Using reward-based training methods gives dogs confidence and enhances their optimism. Old-fashioned and aversive techniques that use punishments can make their fears get worse. Let them take their time, be patient with yourself and reward them with treats for being brave. Dogs communicate their feelings via their body language. When they are scared, this can include cowering, panting and drooling, or being aggressive to protect themselves. If your dog is afraid of everything, there are some things you can do to help them feel less fearful. Make sure they are safe and are not repeatedly exposed to the thing they are afraid of. Using careful management , as well as using positive reinforcement training , desensitisation, and counter-conditioning techniques to change how they feel, is key. If needed, work with a professional behaviourist or trainer to help your dog overcome their fears. If your dog is scared of other dogs, check out our article how to teach your dog to ignore other dogs. You can also teach them a reliable leave it cue to help them disengage. Our training games library will give you a heap of new things to do to make your walks and times with your dog fun and to help them build confidence. Well done! To know much more, download a trial of the Zigzag puppy training app and teach your puppy to be confident and well-socialised from the start. We also have a team of professional dog trainers on hand seven days a week to discuss your worries. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. Trying to move away from the stressor Panting heavily or suddenly stops panting Keep in mind that some behaviors that look like aggression, like leash reactivity and barking , can also be signs of an underlying fear of something. For example, a typical dog might jump at the sound of a dropped pan, but a fearful dog might run, hide and then refuse to come out. How to help: If your dog only reacts to certain types of noises , like sirens or fireworks or thunder , you can use behavioral modification to help your dog learn to tolerate the sound. Use a recording of the sound to gradually desensitize him to the noise by playing it at a low volume and pairing it with treats. If your dog is trying to cope with ongoing scary sounds like construction noise, use a white noise machine to muffle the sounds. Children Kids can be fast, loud and unpredictable, and because of that, they can be challenging for even the most even-tempered dogs. If you discover that your new dog is fearful around your own children, make sure that he has an area where he can spend time away from them. Then you will need to find a positive-reinforcement dog trainer to help you assess the situation and create a training plan that keeps everyone safe. Other Dogs Unfortunately, not every dog wants to be friends with his own kind, particularly timid dogs. How to help: Helping fearful dogs learn to feel more confident around other dogs requires a slow approach and a good understanding of canine body language. You will need to slowly work through dog introductions in order to keep your dog feeling comfortable. For dogs that are mildly uncomfortable around other dogs, you should find a mellow, dog-savvy dog and try walking them together, at the same pace but with distance between them. When both dogs seem relaxed, gradually begin to bring them closer together, making sure that they remain calm and happy as they get closer. Keep early introductions short and end sessions before the nervous dog gets overwhelmed. Strangers Some dogs are uncomfortable around people that look different from their family for example, large men with beards or people wearing hats and bulky jackets , but dogs that are afraid of anyone outside their family can make going into public or having guests over traumatic. How to help: Using desensitization and counter-conditioning can help a stranger-shy dog start to overcome his fears. Continue giving treats while the person is in view for a few seconds, then have the stranger disappear. Gradually bridge the gap between your dog and the person over a series of training sessions. Going Outside Sometimes the world outside your front door is a scary place. Dogs that move to a different environment, like from the suburbs to the city, might find the noise and crowds in their new neighborhood overwhelming. Similarly, a traumatic experience outside, like having a fight with another dog, can be enough to create an overwhelming fear of going outside. Pet parents can begin the process by standing near the door with a handful of treats. Continue to build on and reward each step towards the door until your dog is able to cross the threshold. Trying to push a nervous dog beyond his comfort zone could derail the training process, so be patient and encourage your fearful pup as he learns to be a more confident dog. Talk with your veterinarian about pairing training and desensitization efforts with natural, holistic calming supplements or pheromone collars. Sometimes, medication is very helpful to calm some dogs in certain situations if natural options have not worked. Also, working with a veterinary behaviorist may be the best option if all other routes have failed. Below, I will mention a number of reasons why your German Shepherd might be afraid a lot and the signs to look for. Previous owners The first reason why a German Shepherd might be afraid of everything is that it could have been mistreated by its previous owners. This would be more likely if you adopted your German Shepherd from an animal shelter. However, it could also be the case if you bought it as a puppy. Someone has been mistreating it Another possible reason why it might be afraid of everything could be that someone that it currently lives with or sees often has been mistreating it. This would be more likely if your German Shepherd spends a lot of time around people other than you. Related post: How to tell if your German Shepherd loves you It was not able to socialize as a puppy A common and the most likely reason why your German Shepherd is afraid of everything is that it was not able to socialize with other people and pets as a puppy. When they are puppies they will naturally be very curious and this is the time where they learn about the world most. If they do not get the chance to interact with people or dogs then it will have a large impact on what they are like as adults. You are in a new location Being in an unfamiliar environment is another possible reason why your German Shepherd is scared. This would be more likely if you have moved home recently. However, it could also be the case if new people have been around it a lot as well. It is ill or injured Being ill or injured is another possible cause for your German Shepherd being afraid of things. This would be more likely if it was not always afraid of everything but it recently started to develop the behavior. This would be even more likely if it started doing it after something happened that might have caused it to get ill or injured. It would also be more likely if it has been acting unusually in other ways as well. In this case, if you think that it is ill or injured then it would be worthwhile to take it to a vet to get an expert opinion. Nature Some German Shepherds will be naturally a lot more outgoing than others. It could be the case that your German Shepherd is just naturally timider. This would be more likely if you know that it was able to socialize as a puppy, it has not been mistreated and if it has always acted that way. Things to Consider Before trying to get your German Shepherd to be less afraid it would help a lot to understand what the cause is. There are a number of things that you can consider, when trying to figure out the cause, that I will mention below. If it is always afraid or if it is only afraid at certain times Considering whether or not it only gets afraid at certain times would likely help a lot. If it only seems to get afraid at certain times then it would be likely that it has something to do with what is going on around it at that time. If it always seems to get afraid of things then it would make it more likely that it has something to do with being mistreated when younger or not being able to socialize when it was younger. Who is around when it gets afraid Considering who is around when it gets afraid would likely help a lot in determining why it does it. If it seems to only get afraid when certain people are around then it would be a sign that it has been mistreated. However, it could also be a sign that it was mistreated by someone else when it was younger and it is less trusting of people as a result. It is not unusual for German Shepherds to be afraid of things such as thunder If your German Shepherd tends to be afraid of things such as sirens, fireworks or thunder then it would not be such an unusual thing and not something to be too concerned about. How old it is It would also help to consider the age of your German Shepherd. If it is a puppy then it will be normal for it to seem to be slightly timid at times. However, it would help to make sure that it gets lots of interactions with other people and dogs so that it learns not to be afraid. If it is not a puppy then it would be more likely that it was due to one of the reasons mentioned in the first section above. How to get your German Shepherd to be less afraid of things There are a number of things that you can do if you want to get your German Shepherd to be less afraid of things that I will mention below. Allow it to meet new people and dogs If your German Shepherd does not meet other people and dogs very often then, naturally, it will be more distrusting of them. In this case, it would help to allow it to interact with other people and dogs if possible. See a vet or a certified dog expert in your area If you are unsure of why your German Shepherd gets afraid of everything it would help to see a vet or a certified dog expert in your area to see what they have to say about it. Reward it when it is not afraid Positive reinforcement training can be very effective when you are trying to get a dog to adopt a certain behavior. By rewarding your German Shepherd with treats or attention when it shows signs of not being afraid of things that it normally would be you should be able to get it to be more confident. Avoid punishing or rewarding it when it does become fearful While positively reinforcing the behavior that you want can be very effective, it can also work the other way. If you punish or reward your German Shepherd when it shows signs of being afraid you might be reinforcing the behavior. Instead, it would be better to avoid reacting when it does show signs of being afraid and to wait until it stops being afraid to reward it with your attention. Take it to new locations One way to get it used to new stimuli would be to take it to new locations often. One way to do this would be to walk it on a different route than you normally would. Let it socialize as a puppy While it may not be possible now, for future reference, it would help a lot to make sure that any German Shepherd puppies you get in the future are able to socialize with other dogs and people regularly. If you want a happy and obedient German Shepherd, this is one of the best online dog training programs available right now. You can get the first month free using This link. Puppy proofing the house, buying food and toys, and brushing up on your potty training skills, are just a few. One important but often forgotten part of raising a confident puppy is helping them get through their stages of development, after leaving their mom. All puppies go through stages of development. Care should be taken to familiarize yourself with these stages so that you can help your dog get through them so they can mature into a confident, happy, socialized dog. Fear Period 1 Most of this development will take place when your puppy is still with the breeder, starting about 3 weeks of age until they are ready to go to their new home at around eight to twelve weeks. Eight weeks is the age when puppies begin to imprint and learn what can development into unnecessary fears. Building their confidence and exposing them to new things in a fun, positive, and non-threatening way at this age is very important. Fear Period 2 The next fear stage in their development is when they reach adolescence at about four to six months-but it can begin later and last up to age fourteen months, depending on the dog. At this age, once confident pups can suddenly get cautious, worried, or approach things differently than they did when they were younger. They may suffer a negative experience that makes them nervous, begin to mistrust the vet they once loved, get more cautious around strangers, or seem overly concerned about new things, such as a trash bag. This is also time when they are trained and continuously socialized. Any bad habits such as resource guarding or being over protective should have already been corrected or if recently developed, quickly be corrected. Making training a fun and positive experience will go a long way into helping your dog grow up to be confident, happy, and bonded with you. Negative or scary experiences can stick with puppies and imprint them for life resulting in dogs that are nervous and anxious. Only you can set the stage to give your puppy the best possible foundation to mature on. Please feel free to pass this along to your family and friends. Their genetics and early experiences in life develop their future personality traits, such as shyness. Some dogs are naturally shy and more timid than other dogs. However, shy dogs can become very fearful if forced into uncomfortable situations. Fearful dogs are often scared of the world and have phobias of certain things or places or people. This type of shyness or fear often comes from lack of socialization as a puppy. These fears hold the dog back from living their best life or even having normal dog experiences. Both shy and fearful dogs need help to face the world but should not be forced. Fearful dogs are more prone to bite and can panic over seemingly innocent things. However, they also need training, conditioning, and encouragement to overcome this behavior and to live their best life. They can also become shy and insecure without training or a routine. Some dogs become shyer when they become seniors or suffer from pain or other health problems. How to Help a Shy Dog The best thing that you can do to help shy dogs is to be confident for them. But they also need to be protected from things that can trigger more fear and from bad experiences that can make the problem worse. You can help a shy dog by proceeding slowly to gain their trust and never forcing the dog into a situation that scares the dog. With training and by allowing them to have more positive experiences and small victories, their confidence will grow. You can help by encouraging calm, brave behavior and not rewarding shy behavior. Rather, wait until the dog exhibits more confident behavior, such as moving forward, sniffing, or otherwise overcoming his inner battle then reward with praise and treats. First, introduce the leash slowly without putting it on. Once the dog is used to it, then calmly put the leash on and let the dog get used to how it feels. Once the dog is comfortable, then begin trying to teach the dog to walk with the leash. All the while praising every small victory and ignoring the fearful behavior. Every time the dog overcomes its insecurity, it will be more confident and willing to try new things. This method of conditioning can be applied to many scenarios. Once the dog is comfortable, try walking closer over time. Eventually spend time in closer proximity to people without it triggering concern in your pup. Eventually, have a friend help you. For instance, ask the friend to come closer to the dog greeting it and dropping treats. Have your friend get closer and closer over time while feeding treats and praising confident behavior until eventually the dog and the person are friends. Being patient is very important to building their trust and confidence. Never rush, force, punish, or yell at a dog for being shy. Basic training is very important for shy dogs. If the dog seems insecure, you can tell them to watch me, sit, hold it, heel, etc. There are many dogs who have overcome their problems this way. I arrived for the session as the guardian was returning from a walk so I used the opportunity to use a few puppy behavior tips to help her feel more relaxed and comfortable when meeting me. The approach had mixed results with the puppy spending some time relaxed and at other times moving back in a fearful way. We spent a good portion of the session discussing small things the humans can do to help Asia relax as well as things to avoid doing primarily petting when scared or failing to provide rules and structure. She was bred and spent most of her time outside of the home before being adopted. While she showed some aggressive behavior, the key problem her is Asia is a fearful puppy due to limited early exposure to new people. Puppies who spend their first few weeks of life in a barn or other non-domesticated living quarters miss out on valuable socialization experience. Dogs who are whelped in a farm situation are notoriously under socialized around humans and that was certainly the case for Asia. Her guardians mentioned several things that I would consider a big red flag from a breeder. A rule of thumb is you want your puppy to meet at least people in a positive way before they turn 3 months old. If they did not practice meeting people in a positive way during their CSP, its not unusual for them to be fearful around new people. This is most certainly the case with Asia. We headed outside to do a little BAT training and recorded a video on it, but after reflecting on the session afterwords I decided to not include it here. Although one of her guardians takes her for a short walk every day, she is in need of far more daily exercise. Your average dog needs at least 1 hour of exercise a day, but higher energy dogs and puppies like Asia need more. I shared some tips like exercising before walks, walking at times when less people are out, teaching the dog to run up and down the stairs, scent games and fetch. Next we discussed the importance of rules, some rules to introduce and how to enforce them. Consistent enforcement of rules for at least 2 months will be critical for Asia to start seeing her humans acting like leaders. The more she sees them this way, the more comfortable she will be in situations that make her nervous just like a friend can give you confidence when dealing with a new or stressful situation. We also discussed ways to add structure like petting with a purpose. Giving the dog rewards and attention when they organically offer desired behaviors will also help. I call this passive training and its probably one of the easiest and most effective way to train any dog. I handed my camera over to one of the guardians so I could share some tips to help the puppy stop acting so fearful and start building up positive associations with new people instead. While Asia shows some aggressive behavior to strangers, most of this is stemming from fear due to a lack of exposure and confidence. The more the guardians have people over to practice the tips to stop a dog from acting aggressive that I outlined in the above video, the more comfortable Asia will become. The key is to do this in a way that allows the dog to feel comfortable. Exercising her before hand, keeping enough distance between her and the new person and keeping these session short should allow Asia to be around new people without reacting. Another thing the guardians can do is to teach Asia some new tricks and commands. One of these should be how to catch as this gives any dog the ability to interact from a distance; something that helps many fearful dogs. My hope is that as the humans flips the leader follower dynamic through rules, structure and discipline, increase her confidence with some new skills and help her practice meeting new people in a low intensity way — her fearful aggressive behavior will go away. To help the guardians remember all the things we covered in this in home puppy training session, we recorded a Roadmap to success video that you can watch below. Share this:. German Shepherds are extremely intelligent and easy to train… but this comes with some caveats. One of these is their long memory, and because of this, when something scares them, they remember it and often react. Socialization Your dog typically learns socialization as a pup by playing with siblings under the watchful eye of their mom. Socialization teaches things like being comfortable around other dogs, knowing how hard they can bite without hurting someone, and how comfortable they are with humans around. Neglect or abuse Most common with rescue dogs, a German Shepherd that has been neglected can develop anxiety to outside stimuli. Unnatural fears Your intelligent Shepherd can have unnatural fears, just like humans do. This can include all kinds of things, like spiders, the vacuum cleaner, or even fear of the dark! Possible illness or other health issues In some cases, fearful behavior may be indicative that your German Shepherd may be ill or in pain from an unobserved injury. When the fearful behavior is new, rather than a current character trait, a vet checkup should be considered an excellent first step. Ears go flat Watch those ears! Dog ears can tell you a lot. Watch for this sudden shift and take note of your surroundings to see if anything obvious in your general vicinity might be the cause. Tail tucked between their legs When your dog tucks their tail between its legs, this is a sign of fear and submission. Raised hairs The old cartoon standard of a cat or a dog with their hair standing on end when they see something scary is based on an actual physical response. Cowering or hiding behind you Possibly the most obvious indicator of fear, your dog may flinch or backpedal away from something swiftly, followed by getting behind you. This behavior is exactly what it looks like. Your Shepherd is hiding behind you in hopes that you will protect them from whatever has frightened them. Sudden urination When a normally well-behaved and potty-trained dog suddenly loses control of their bladder, then this can also be a response to fear. Otherwise, try to determine what it is that is scaring them so much so that it may be dealt with through positive conditioning. Most commonly, your dog is just going to need some positive conditioning by means of love, reassurance, and an active effort not to reinforce bad behaviors. Socialization training Professional socialization training is an option, or you can even do it on your own. Most of what this consists of is a slow, controlled introduction to other people, places, and dogs so that they are more comfortable with changes in their immediate vicinity instead of going on an instant, fearful alert. Avoid reassuring them when they are scared Resist the urge to pet and try to calm your dog when they are showing signs of fear. Treats for bravery When your dog shows a more controlled response, such as standing alert next to you when they are afraid, then you can reward this behavior with a treat to help to reinforce it. Do NOT give them treats for acting fearful, as this will reinforce the anxiety-induced behavior rather than reassure them. Consider checking with your vet If the fear is a new response for your dog and out of alignment with their regular behavior, then your dog might be ill or in pain. Impulsive behavior that looks fearful may be signs that your dog is feeling ill or trying to protect an injured area that might not be readily visible. A trip to the vet is a good idea so that health issues may be quickly ruled out as the problem. Thunder A lot of dogs are scared of thunder, and the mighty German Shepherd is no exception. The only thing that you can really do is get them used to it. The dark While dogs see better in the dark than we do, pitch-black dark is still hard for them, and with older dogs, there may be problems with their eyes. A trip to the vet can check the latter possibility, while a nightlight or spending periods of time in the dark with your dog can help with the former. Being left alone Some dogs, especially if they live alone with a single owner, can become a little codependent. This is especially common if they have been weaned early. In cases like this, crate training is an excellent way to teach your dog to be more independent and that time alone is normal and nothing to be afraid of. Other dogs If your dog gets uneasy whenever they see another dog, instead of greeting that dog with a wary approach and experimental sniff, then socialization training is in order. Cheaper than replacing everything they might break. And definitely cheaper than a lawsuit against you, if they decide to bite someone. And the best part is it also has a day money-back guarantee! You can also check out a full review here , to learn exactly what the course has to offer! How do you calm a scared German Shepherd? Teaching your Shepherd to come to you like this can even save their life or yours someday, so teach them to come to you and then to sit down when they are scared. Can a fearful German Shepherd be cured? How do German Shepherds act when scared? Learning to recognize the signs can help you to determine what your dog is afraid of more quickly so that you can alter their training to accommodate and surmount these fears. If your Shepherd is showing signs such as dilated pupils or hiding behind you, you should now be prepared to identify what is frightening them so that you can train them to face their fears with full confidence. Related Posts:.

When the best time to spay or neuter your puppy can be a tricky decision, complicated by new research, old veterinary traditions and recommendations, and your own personal situation. For these reasons, we at Eromit do not require you to spay or neuter your puppy at any particular age but do make strong recommendations based on our experience and study of the subject. There are also incentives offered for following these recommendations although as long as the puppy is not allowed to breed, we do offer the new owners leeway in making the decision. Here are some of the factors you want to consider: Preventing Accidental Litters— This does need to be a major consideration. We know that none of our puppy owners want to have their dog bred indiscriminately and contribute to the scores of mixed breed or unplanned puppies that are born each year. The main deterrent for most people however, is that no one wants to be responsible for many unplanned puppies for their entire life if it can be avoided. Owners of female puppies should consider that Labs can come into season as early as 6 months of age although months is more common in our line and that strict containment is required for 30 days from the start of the heat cycle. This means- no boarding kennels, no visits to the dog park, no unsupervised time in your own backyard since stray males are extremely motivated and able to break in! Owners of male dogs should consider the lure of intact females in the neighborhood and how that will affect their ability to be contained or controlled. Plan ahead so that you know what you will do when your puppy comes into season. Containing your dog and preventing a breeding can be done rather easily if you are prepared we do it here all the time, ask for tips if you need them! Health Considerations — When you talk to your vet, most will cite two main advantages to having your dog spayed or neutered at a young age. These are: 1 the prevention of mammary cancer in female dogs and 2 the prevention of prostate cancer and testicular cancer in male dogs. Both of these are true although to a much lower degree than you might realize. A dog who is spayed after her first heat cycle has double the risk of mammary cancer from a dog who is spayed before her heat cycle. What is often not mentioned is that the risk goes from 0. New studies coming out show many benefits to waiting until your dog is completely done growing in order to spay or neuter them. On a logical level, this makes sense because we all know that sex hormones are removed during spay or neuter surgeries, and that sex hormones are involved in the normal maturation process of any animal. For example, what makes a young human boy look and act like an adult man? Puberty- which requires testosterone! Newer studies are showing that dogs who are spayed or neutered before maturity are more at risk of bone and heart cancer, ruptured cruciate ligaments a serious debilitating knee injury that is very expensive to fix , hip dysplasia, allergies, and much more. At the bottom of this page are links so that you can see these studies for yourself — PLEASE read them and print them off to discuss further with your vet. From a performance perspective, you definitely do not want to spay or neuter your pet before they are done growing. Dogs who are altered too soon will grow longer and more disproportionately than if they were left intact. This altered growth pattern is precisely what contributes to the increase bone and joint problems and makes for a less physically stable dog and often noticeably taller, especially in the rear end than he was genetically programmed to be. Behavior and Training— Many sources will indicate that in order to remove the possibility of behavior problems like marking, humping, or aggressive behaviors, you should have your puppy neutered or spayed at a young age. Again, new research is proving this old wives tail to be false. You can teach an intact male to be polite and clean in the house as easily as any other type of dog. You can socialize your intact male or female to play politely or ignore other dogs of the same or opposite sex. Humping is as much a play behavior as a sexual behavior and you can teach your dog other ways to interact with people, toys, and other animals. If you want to see real life examples of this, you need only to meet our dogs, intact males and females interacting which each other and our older retired spayed females. Practical Reasons— If you travel a lot, such that your dog must board in the care of others; or if you utilize services like dog walkers, doggy daycare, etc, if there are other intact opposite gender dogs in your household or an abundance of stray dogs in your area- those are major reasons why you should consider spaying or neutering your dog. However, we still urge you to wait until AFTER your dog is physically mature to do this, which may mean that you need to consider alternate boarding or care arrangements until sterilization is complete. Links for further reading. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. You have a new Labrador retriever puppy. There are various theories regarding when—and if—he should be neutered. Most have been fixed, but many have not. Labs are such friendly, intelligent, energetic dogs. The technical term is gonadectomy, which is the surgical removal of the testes in males or ovaries in females. Neutering is considered to be a simpler, less-invasive surgery than spaying. But both are safe if performed by an experienced, licensed veterinarian. Traditionally, people have had their puppies fixed for various reasons, some of which are behavioral or medical. Some physical problems have been found in larger numbers in neutered and spayed Labrador retrievers than in intact Labs. And numerous behavioral problems have been found to increase in the neutered and spayed population as compared to their intact counterparts. Researchers have discovered that even amongst similar breeds and sizes of dogs, there are very different medical outcomes for some breeds when they are spayed or neutered. Researchers Benjamin and Lynette Hart of the University of California, Davis, examined 35 dog breeds and found that vulnerability to certain diseases varies greatly depending upon breed. Their study was set forth in the Journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science. They learned that there is no one-size-fits-all decision regarding the medical effects of spaying and neutering on various breeds. And their data showed very specific findings with regard to the 35 breeds studied, including Labrador retrievers. In their study of Labrador retrievers, there were intact males, neutered males, intact females, and spayed females. This equals 1, Labs in total. Joint Disorders in Labrador Retrievers A significant increase was found regarding joint disorders in fixed dogs than occurred in intact ones. One or more joint disorders were reported in six percent of intact male and female Labrador retrievers. However, the risk of joint disorders increased by about percent in desexed Labs. In male Labs neutered before six months old, 13 percent were found to suffer from joint disorders. In female Labradors spayed before six months old and between six and 12 months old, the risk of joint disorders was found to be between 11 and 12 percent. Cancers in Labrador Retrievers As far as cancers were concerned, there was a six percent risk for intact males and an eight percent risk for intact females. Neutering was not associated with any evident increased risk of cancer at any age studied. However, Mast Cell tumors were found in one percent of intact females and two percent of females who were spayed between two and eight years of age. Other Physical Concerns in Labrador Retrievers Two percent of intact female Labs were found to have pyometra as compared to none in their spayed counterparts. Urinary incontinence was reported in two to three percent of females who were spayed through one year old. Conclusions Regarding Age To Spay or Neuter for Medical Reasons The Harts concluded that the guidelines suggested that males should be neutered if at all after they are six months old because of the much higher rate of problems suffered by male Labrador retrievers fixed before that age. They found that the guidelines suggest spaying female Labs if at all after one year old because of the increase of joint disorders when spayed prior to 11 months old. Current Behavioral Theories on Neutering and Spaying Dogs There have been long-held beliefs that spaying and neutering help prevent or end certain undesirable behaviors such as those in the bulleted list above. But many of those anecdotal thoughts have been disproven by current scientific studies. This standardized behavioral evaluation test was developed and validated by Yuying and James Serpell in at the University of Pennsylvania. Since , the public has been able to access the study and fill in numerical scores for 14 different categories of dog behavior. The current database contains detailed behavioral evaluations for about 50, pet dogs consisting of more than different breeds and cross breeds. With regard to many of the behavioral studies, generally the earlier that a dog was fixed, the more negative effects were seen regarding behavior. In the studies, female dogs who were spayed later in life were less likely to show an increase in aggression than females spayed at a young age. And neutered male dogs were found to be more likely to be aggressive toward intact males than other intact males were. So how are all behaviors affected by neutering or spaying? Preventing a Male Dog from Roaming and Seeking out a Female Dog in Heat Current studies confirm that neutered males are less likely than their intact counterparts to roam and seek female dogs in heat. Having a calmer puppy Modern studies show that fixed dogs are about eight percent more excitable than intact ones. A significant increase in fear and anxiety was seen in neutered dogs regardless of the age of neutering. Stopping or Preventing Urine Marking The studies showed that neutered dogs are less likely to leave urine marks indoors. Stopping or Preventing Excessive Barking More anxious and fearful behaviors as well as more excitability were seen in desexed male and female dogs. And excessive barking when alarmed or excited was seen more often in neutered dogs. However, neutered dogs were found to be less likely to howl when left alone. Stopping or Preventing Aggression This was one of the most surprising results in the studies. Contrary to popular belief, more aggressive behaviors were seen in fixed dogs than in intact ones. Specifically, neutered dogs were more likely show an increase in certain aggressive behaviors when: Delivery workers approached the home Strangers walked past their home Joggers, cyclists, and rollerbladers passed by They were approached directly by an unfamiliar female dog An unfamiliar person approached the owner or another family member or even just visited the home Small animals such as cats or squirrels entered the yard The significantly higher aggression score seen in neutered males as compared to intact dogs was seen regardless of the age that the dogs were neutered. In spayed females, there was a significant increase in aggression scores when they were spayed at 12 months old or earlier as compared with their intact counterparts. Fear-Related Behaviors Neutered dogs demonstrated more fear-related behaviors than their intact counterparts. The younger the dog was neutered, the more severe the fear-related effects were. In fact, a 31 percent increase in fearfulness was seen in spayed females and neutered males. These included : Responses to loud noises When they are first exposed to unfamiliar situations When approached directly by an unfamiliar child When barked at or growled at by an unfamiliar dog When approached by an unfamiliar dog who is of similar size or larger When encountering strange or unfamiliar objects on or near the sidewalk When encountering windblown objects When being examined by a veterinarian When having nails clipped 7. The Trainability of the Puppy Whereas it has been believed that a desexed puppy is more trainable, current research has demonstrated that this is not the case. In fact, the evidence showed that spayed and neutered dogs are less trainable and less responsive to cues overall. The only positive behavior noted with regard to obedience was that desexed dogs were more likely to return to their owners when off-leash and more likely to reliably retrieve tossed items. Separation and Attention-Seeking Behavior Neutered and spayed dogs were found to have more separation-related behaviors. And they also had more attachment and attention-seeking behavior than their intact counterparts. Touch Sensitivity A 33 percent increase in touch sensitivity was seen in spayed and neutered dogs. This can potentially affect how receptive a dog is to grooming. Other Behavioral Problems Seen in Neutered Dogs Additional unwanted behaviors were also seen more often in neutered dogs than in intact ones. Or to deal with a female dog in heat. Or to find homes for a litter of puppies. In the s, the animal overpopulation problem led to the regular spaying and neutering of puppies, often around six months of age. Over time, many shelters and rescue groups performed surgeries to fix dogs at an even earlier age, such as eight weeks old. Female dogs go into heat approximately every six months for about 18 days each time. Personally, all of my dogs have been spayed or neutered. The rescues came to me fixed, and I chose to desex the others. One of my dogs was a Belgian tervuren named Jenny who I purchased from a breeder. It was many years ago, and I wanted to show a dog in conformation competition. The theory is that the best representatives of each breed should continue to reproduce to protect its heritage. Even though my male dogs were fixed, they all were attracted to her when she was in heat. So I had to carefully monitor all of them and manage the situation so that there were no disputes. And she wore a doggy panty with a disposable pad when she was in heat. After she obtained her Championship, I had her spayed. I chose not to breed her because there were too many dogs in the world without homes. Life was much calmer and easier after Jenny was spayed. Of course, this can also help reduce the risk of having unwanted puppies. And it helps keep your male Lab puppy safe because a dog who escapes can become lost or injured. This led to the organization supporting early-age sterilization in order to prevent the accidental breeding of young cats and dogs. There are too many puppies and dogs who need homes. And not enough loving homes. However, this long-held belief has been disproven. Spaying and Neutering for Reduced Overall Costs Although neutering or spaying your beloved Labrador retriever has initial costs, the amount is miniscule in comparison to properly raising a litter of puppies. Vet care for a litter of puppies and for the pregnant mother is very expensive. And feeding and caring for them is costly too! Many shelters and rescue groups have low-cost or free spay and neuter clinics. First of all, the breeding parents should have many different health clearances. Breeding without the required tests is irresponsible. And potentially dangerous to both the breeding female and to the offspring. Keep in mind too that the tests, vet care, food, puppy raising, and other necessities cost money and take a lot of time. Spaying and Neutering To Be Socially Conscious In addition to helping prevent the overpopulation problem, spaying or neutering your Labrador retriever puppy will often be better for your community. Dogs from unwanted litters are often abandoned, thereafter suffering from illness and untimely death. They can also pose a danger to other dogs by spreading diseases. And, because they may not be properly trained and socialized, they may become aggressive to people and dogs. Abandoned dogs may also pose risks of accidents and destruction to property. Instead, you can teach your child through books or videos about childbirth. FAQs Are spayed or neutered dogs more likely to become overweight than unfixed dogs? Dogs who are overfed and under-exercised gain weight. Does spaying or neutering prevent or stop a dog from becoming aggressive? Scientific data actually shows that spaying or neutering may increase aggression towards people and other dogs. Should I spay or neuter my Labrador retriever puppy? There are certain benefits to fixing your dog such as not dealing with a female dog in heat or a male dog who tends to roam seeking female dogs in heat. Summary of Information Behavioral data shows an increase in many unwanted behaviors in neutered and spayed dogs, including aggression, fearfulness, less trainability, excitability, excessive barking, separation-related issues, and touch sensitivity. And male Labs neutered prior to six months old and female Labs spayed before a year old tended to have more joint disorders. Of course, these are just two factors of many to consider when deciding whether—and, if so, when—to fix your Labrador retriever. Neutering does help prevent male dogs from roaming and from urine marking. Final Thoughts So, should you spay or neuter your Labrador retriever puppy and, if so, when? Health, behavior, and other considerations need to be analyzed. Have you spayed or neutered your Labrador retriever puppy? At what age? What determined your decision? Please tell us about it in the comments. 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. Learn how your comment data is processed. Keep in touch. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Spaying your Labrador at the right time can make a big difference in healing from surgery and adapting to changing hormones. You should spay your Lab just prior to her first heat cycle, which is around 6 months, and about 45 pounds. Many first-time pet owners are worried about the time window of spaying or neutering their dogs. What happens if you spay a yellow Labrador too late or early? Will it impact them for the rest of their lives? This is typically around 6 months old. Your pup should weigh at least 45 pounds to help with the healing process. If your dog is too lightweight, it might be malnourished and could experience trouble recovering from the surgery. They could develop tumors, infections, or extreme fatigue since their bodies deliver all of their resources to heal the wound. Talk to your vet for a precise timeframe since all yellow Labs go through puberty at a different rate. Rather than ball-parking it and fitting a surgery somewhere within the previously mentioned timeline, I highly recommend seeking professional medical advice. Care Animal Hospital shows your dog is technically never too old to spay. The healing process will take longer, but there are several benefits of spaying a dog that make it more than worth it. Professional approval provides peace of mind and much-needed safety for your Labrador. This time period is characterized by bleeding, discomfort, and a natural cycle of life. Find out everything you need to know below. This time period includes cycles that make them bleed and prepare their body for having a litter of puppies. It can make them uncomfortable, too. Learn more about spaying or neutering your dog too late or early if you want to keep your pup in good, healthy condition. Most Owner Spay Before Heat for Many Reasons Dealing with a yellow Lab in heat requires lots of cleaning, understanding of potential mood cycles, and more. Your dog will be on track to a healthy, quick recovery, even if they go through their first heat cycle. Your dog will feel uncomfortable and possibly act irritable or worried. When an animal is trying to mate, they often have other things on their mind. Many pet owners mistake spaying their dog as the cure for too much energy. Most dogs calm down after a couple of years, regardless of surgery. This short-term fatigue will fade away once they recover. Conclusion Spay your yellow Lab properly as it can play a significant role in their recovery and the way they adapt to this new lifestyle. Comfort your Labrador and ensure they weigh enough and are old enough to handle the procedure. Controls Population Experts believe that a Labrador should be spayed between the age of 9 and 15 months. You should never rush the process and spay your pooch too early because it can lead to many health problems. Similarly, leaving your dog intact for too long can give way to several complications. Once a female Lab has gone through her first heat, she becomes highly vulnerable to these tumors. Spaying your Labrador puppy is a major surgery and will require substantial aftercare. The vet will give you detailed instructions, and you must follow them strictly to ensure a smooth recovery. A Labrador puppy that has undergone spaying might be completely inactive for the first days. After that, they might start to move around but the wound will need a rest of several weeks to heal completely. During this period, the owners should be extremely vigilant and make sure that their pooch stays safe. Labs are known for being curious and can get themselves into trouble if you are not super alert. Different breeds require different amounts of sleep, but how much sleep do Labradors need? Click here to learn more. Yes, it does. The behavioral issues of the dog are one of the primary reasons why owners decide to spay their Labradors. If your pup is showing aggression and indulging in inappropriate urination, spaying can be quite helpful in solving the problem. Although male Labs are more likely to exhibit this behavior, some female Labs can also create these issues. Other Benefits of Spaying Labradors Managing behavioral issues is not the only objective of spaying Labradors. It can also solve some other issues that can be quite troublesome for the dog and owner. The following are a couple of other reasons that can urge you to spay your Labrador. Reduces Health Risks Many experts regard spaying as an effective remedy to maintain the good health of your pup. Not only will it keep your dog healthy, but it can also increase the lifespan of your Labrador. According to an estimate , spaying can increase the lifespan of male Labs by .Spaying reduces the risk of several types of cancers, like testicular, mammary, and uterine cancers. Similarly, it reduces the probability of many dangerous medical conditions, like Pyometra. This life-threatening uterine infection is specific to Labs and can be quite uncomfortable for your canine friend. A female Labrador can have up to 70 puppies during their lifetime. A female Lab can have up to 12 pups in a litter. This means that taking care of newborn puppies and their mother can be an extremely challenging task. Even if you are planning to have some puppies, you should make a proper plan with your vet and stick to it. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please note: We are not veterinarians and you use our advice at your own discretion. We always recommend that you consult your veterinarian whenever you have health-related conditions your furbaby is facing. With that in mind, as pet parents ourselves, we wish nothing but the best for your pet and their healthy and happy lives. By Tom Massey Dec 09, When you become the owner of a puppy, there are several things you should do to encourage its overall wellness, like making sure it gets plenty of exercise, feeding it high-quality food, attending frequent vet checkups, and scheduling a spay or neuter appointment at the appropriate age. Spaying or neutering your lab—or having a gonadectomy performed—is one of the best ways that you can ensure a happy and healthy life with your puppy. This procedure has proven to help reduce major health risks like cancer, eliminate unwanted pregnancy, and even assist with undesired behaviors in males. Spaying, or ovariohysterectomy, is a procedure specific to females that refers to removing her reproductive organs, including her ovaries and uterus. Neutering, or orchiectomy, is the procedure specific to males that refers to removing both testicles so that he is unable to reproduce anymore. Neutering helps control reproductive urges and suppress unwanted behaviors like aggression. Some veterinarians believe that six months old is a good time to spay or neuter, but one study found that doing so this early could increase the likeliness of joint disorders and certain cancers in adulthood. This is typically when he or she is more than 45 pounds and between 9 to 15 months old. Before you set the appointment, be sure to speak with your vet about the right time for your puppy based on its health, gender, and size. Benefits to Spaying or Neutering There are several health benefits to spaying or neutering your Labrador puppy. But even if you plan on keeping a litter or two, females can have up to 12 puppies per litter—so it can get hectic and expensive keeping up with all of their behaviors, attention needs, and health requirements. This is to help prevent overpopulation, unsafe breeding practices, and unwanted puppies in the future. Benefit 2: Reduces Health Risks Did you know that getting your Labrador spayed or neutered increases its longevity? Pyometra is one of the most prevalent, potentially life-threatening uterine infections that are specific to labs. The good news is that spaying or neutering ultimately reduces the risk of contracting this infection! Males will also have a decreased risk for testicular cancer, and females are less likely to get mammary, uterine, ovarian, or cervical tumors. Benefit 3: Assists with Behavior Issues When a male lab enters adulthood, he might begin exhibiting some unwanted behaviors that come with puberty, such as: Mounting Urine marking Aggression towards other dogs and human family members Neutering is the most effective way to reduce these habits. Additionally, females will stop going into heat throughout the year, which will eliminate howling and bleeding during her reproductive seasons. Conclusion Spaying or neutering is one of the most common pet surgeries in the world. Not only does it help reduce unwanted pregnancies, but it also has been proven to aid with behavioral issues and lesson significant health risks well into adulthood. The best time to spay or neuter your lab would be once it hits puberty, which is usually between 9 and 15 months old. At Snowy Pines, all puppies are treated like family—so that they are ready to join yours the day you take them home. Contact Snowy Pines today! Share on. When should I neuter my dog? This traditionally involved an operation to remove the testicles in a male dog or the uterus and ovaries in a female dog. Spaying in the traditional manner is a major surgical procedure. Nowadays there are more options available to us than in years gone by. Female dogs can be spayed using a laproscopic procedure which enables the uterus to be left intact and which is a less invasive method than the traditional. Attitudes towards neutering are changing in the light of recent research and opinions vary widely from one country to another. Neutering in different countries In some countries most dogs are neutered at a very early age and you are considered totally irresponsible if you fail to neuter your dog. Neutering is routinely practised in some parts of the world, Australia for example, and the USA where a widespread spay and neuter campaign has been in operation for some decades In some regions, neutering your pets is obligatory. In Los Angeles County for example, most dogs and cats are required to be sterilised before they are four months old! At the other end of the scale in some countries, neutering is considered offensive. In Norway for example, it is considered unacceptable to neuter a dog without valid medical reasons, and birth control is not one of them. Over in the UK neutering is not universally practised. And though many Labradors are neutered, many are also left entire. In our modern digital world where it is easy to talk to people from all over the world, these differences can cause confusion and even argument. Neutering vs leaving entire There are now groups on Facebook set up to oppose the routine neutering of dogs, and strong feelings about neutering from both sides of the argument. In fact there is no need for argument. This should really be a fact based issue. And facts are what you will find on this page and in the resources I link to. Why Neuter Your Dog? There are lots of reasons why people neuter their dogs, and those reasons are based on beliefs that people hold about the outcome of neutering and how it will affect their dog. In general, apart from birth control, people tend to neuter male dogs for behavioral reasons, and to neuter female dogs for reasons of convenience Birth control Some people think that it is their duty to neuter their dog in order to prevent more puppies being brought into the world. In practical terms, there are other simple ways to ensure that dogs do not reproduce during their lifetimes for those that choose not to neuter. But there is no doubt that neutering is a complete and permanent way to avoid your dog producing any offspring. Does Neutering Change Behavior? Many people for example think that neutering will calm their male Labrador down. Some think it will stop him humping things. This is not necessarily the case. Others think that male dogs will become aggressive if not neutered. Many top pet websites still promote this idea. But along with some other assumptions about neutering, it is now known to be incorrect. In fact recent studies found more behavioral problems in neutered dogs than in entire ones. The truth is, that behavioural effects vary and are not what we once believed. But in short, the evidence now point to behavioral problems being more common in neutered dogs, not the other way around. For these reasons, many people will choose to neuter a female dog so that she never comes into season again Neutering for health Neutering female dogs confers a couple of important health benefits. Including protection from mammary cancer if carried out early, and protection from pyometra. Unfortunately, we now know that neutering also comes packaged with some serious health risks. In male dogs, these health risks to neutering almost certainly outweigh any health benefits. In females, balancing these up is not easy. Getting at the facts — an objective view The truth is, that there are both benefits and disadvantages to neutering, and we look at each of these in more detail in our articles on male and female dogs. Recent research has highlighted some serious long term health risks to neutering including increased risks of cancer, dementia, and some common joint problems. And you need to know about these. Some of the reasons people neuter their dogs, are based on beliefs that are not supported by evidence. And some of the reasons that people neuter their dogs, could be better achieved by other means. Most information about neutering seems to be presented from one angle or the other. What we have tried to do here, is to present the information about neutering in a factual and objective way, so that you can decide for yourself what is best for your family and your dog. Different methods of neutering In the past, neutering was always a surgical procedure. Nowadays there are a few more options available to us than there used to be Castrating male dogs Traditionally, male dogs were neutered by a small and simple surgical procedure during which the testicles are removed through a small incision in the scrotum. This is still a common procedure. Recovery time is quite rapid and the dog becomes infertile within a couple of months as no more sperm are produced. Apart from infertility, the effects of surgical castration can be variable depending on the dog, that too is covered in the link above Chemical castration Chemical castration is an option now available to pet owners in some regions. Chemical castration does not have exactly the same effects as surgical castration, there is some testosterone remaining for example, but it gives you some idea of how permanent castration might affect your dog. Some people might find it helpful to have a trial run of castrating their dog using the chemical option before going for a permanent solution Like surgical castration the affects can be variable. There are also some possible side effects to chemical castration which you will need to discuss with your vet. These may vary from dog to dog and are most likely to occur during the first few days after the injection. Spaying a female dog Traditional methods of spaying female dogs involve major abdominal surgery. Recovery time is at least two week. There is however, now an alternative Laparoscopic spay With a laparoscopic spay, two tiny incisions are made and only the ovaries are removed. The laparoscopic spay is a much simpler procedure. The effects of neutering in dogs Apart from rendering your dog infertile, neutering or de-sexing, has other effects. Differences in physical appearance between neutered and un-neutered dogs will depend on the age at which the dog was neutered Neutered dogs look different A neutered male will have no testicles, which can be very apparent in shortcoated dogs. These are known as neuticles! A male dog neutered before he reaches sexual maturity will look less masculine than an entire adult dog. Dogs of both sexes will usually grow a little taller than they would have done if they had not been neutered. And female dogs neutered later in life may develop a rather coarse, scruffy coat. However, most of the changes that result from neutering are less obvious. They involve the behavior and long term health of your dog. Behavioral changes after neutering Changes in behavior after neutering are not always predictable. What people think will happen to their dog, is not always what happens at all. Especially where dogs are neutered later in life. The behavioral changes of neutering neutering a male dog are limited. Although roaming behavior can be. The Risks Some people are surprised to discover that there are risks to neutering a dog. Risks that go beyond the basic risk of surgery and anesthesia. In several breeds of dog these risks have been shown to include an increased rate of certain cancers. And an increased susceptibility to some serious joint problems. Life is more complicated than that. This leaves owners in something of a dilemma. Especially if their veterinary professional is not up to date with the latest research or has formed different conclusions as to its implications. Therefore you will need to weigh up the pros and cons carefully and consider the evidence available. Deciding whether or not to neuter your dog For many people, there is no doubt that a neutered pet is simply more convenient. If you need to go out to work and your dog needs a place in doggy day care, he may need to be neutered. Many day care centres simply will not accept an entire dog. Caring for some females in season can be a somewhat messy business. And not being able to take your dog out for several weeks can be annoying. And these exist for both male and female dogs. There are also some health benefits to neutering a female dog. These are clearly explained in the articles linked to in this article. The important thing is to make an active choice based on information. My personal view is that neutering a dog for convenience is the right decision for some families. But I do think it is important that you are aware that this is what you are doing. I increasingly meet dog owners that have had their pets neutered purely for health reasons. Or to prevent their male dog becoming aggressive. Only to find out that this was not only unnecessary, but may actually have disadvantaged their dog. This is very upsetting to discover after irreversible surgery has taken place When to Neuter a Labrador If you decide to have your pet neutered, you will also need to decide what is the right age to have the procedure carried out. In the USA there is a tendency to carry out pediatric neutering neutering before sexual maturity. In the UK, vets normally recommend that female dogs are allowed to have one season before being spayed to allow her to mature physically. The advantages of pediatric neutering are from a birth control standpoint. There are no advantages to the individual dog to be neutered at less than six months old. And there is some evidence that the health risks of neutering will be exacerbated by neutering your Labrador at a very early age. Remember, unless you are required by law to neuter your pet by the time he is a few months old, it is your decision to make. If you decide to delay neutering, or even put it off altogether, you will need to take responsibility. Ensuring that no unwanted puppies are brought into the world. Do talk to your veterinarian about any concerns you may have. A good vet will not simply state that all dogs should be neutered but should be aware of the latest research. They will also prepared to discuss this with you and help you come to best decision for your family. Just drop your address into the box below. These varying opinions are a result of the many different reasons you should fix a male dog and a female dog. Some reasons can be to best care for the health of your dog while other reasons for fixing could be to eliminate risk of having an accidental mating resulting in unwanted puppies who may end up in shelters or homes where they are not cared for properly. There are different reasons to spay and neuter a Labrador if you are considering health first. However, fixing your dog at the wrong time could increase the risk of many health issues for your Labrador that could otherwise be avoided. First off you will want to keep your Lab away from other dogs who you do not know if they are fixed or not. Female dogs emit a strong scent that males can smell from miles away. So if your female is not yet fixed be sure to keep her inside or on a leash and supervised while outside. All it takes is thirty seconds of her not being watched and suddenly you could have an intact male jump your fence or dig under resulting in a lock between the two. So having your dog neutered early and spayed early is important to do your part to keep the unwanted pet population down. However, it is important that the females are spayed earlier than the males for health reasons. It is generally accepted practice to spay the female Lab early, and by early I mean before their first heat. It is also accepted that male Labs be neutered a little bit later once they are fully grown. The recommendation is to spay before their first heat which helps eliminates unwanted dogs in shelters AND eliminates some big cancer and other medical risks for her. However, spaying your female this early could contribute to joint issues such as hip dysplasia because their hormones are being altered before they are fully grown. One problem that arises if she is not spayed prior to her first heat is the risk of Pyometra. In intact females the effect of sex hormones can result in over stimulation of cells in the uterus which eventually may result in a severe E coli infection and a pus infection in the uterus. Signs of Pyometra can include lethargy, increased thirst, increased urination, not eating, a foul odor coming from their behind, draining of Pus from the vulva, excess licking of the vulva, collapse or fever related to signs of shock. If you observe any of these symptoms in your Lab after her heat cycle take her to the Vet right away as Pyometra could result in death for her if her uterus ruptures and causes a severe infection bacterial infection in the blood stream and abdomen. Other issues that present themselves if you leave your female Labrador to have a heat while in tact are cancer related. On average a female Lab will have her first heat around six months of age so spaying her in advance of this will help avoid most issues related to cancer such as mammary tumors. The statistic available at the time of writing this is that Labradors who are spayed prior to their first heat only have a 0. Risks for other cancers such as uterine also decrease when they are spayed prior to their first heat. It is important to point out that not all mammary tumors are cancerous and actually most of them are not cancerous, but there is no reason to encourage these tumors simply because they are not cancerous. The down side to spaying before your girl is fully grown is that her hormonal balance will be altered. In order for her to grow naturally she needs the hormones available to her naturally. Altering this natural balance could result in development problems with her joints and result in hip dysplasia or other joint issues or tendon ruptures. The same study goes on to identify that hemangiosarcoma cases in late-spayed females was 4 times more than females spayed early. One final point to mention is that spayed females may also develop a weakened bladder known as spay incontinence or urinary incontinence. So, to sum this all up for female Labradors, at present it appears that fixing them early can greatly reduce the risk of certain types of cancer while increasing the risk of joint-related problems. So how do you decide? We recommend becoming as informed as possible, consulting with your Veterinarian, and then prioritizing your reasons for spaying. On the male Labrador side, if you neuter your pet you can still have a happy pet and often more healthy! Generally you neuter a male after they are fully grown because they require their hormones to thicken up and develop as a male dog would normally. Fully grown is at different times for different breeds of dogs. Generally the larger your dog is the longer it takes them to mature. Large breeds could take up to two years to fully grow and medium breeds are closer to one year. Neutering your Lab will also pretty much eliminate the risk of prostate disease including cysts, abscesses and prostate enlargement. Perineal hernias can also be mostly avoided as they are primarily seen in intact males. A Perineal hernia is when organs from the belly slip through the weakened muscles of the pelvis resulting in a bulge on one or both sides of the anus. As well, neutering your Labrador removes the risk of testicular cancer which is mostly seen in intact male dogs. There are some behavioral issues related to neutering that are worth mentioning. There are however some behavioral issues that are related to male hormones. These can be things such as roaming, mounting other dogs, attraction to female dogs, urine marking and even aggression. Good Labrador Retriever breeders would do this in their breeding programs, however, I have never seen an aggressive Labrador who has been trained and cared for properly. Normally an aggressive dog will be neglected or abused which ends up training them to act that way. Neutering may help to dampen or eliminate any behaviors that are related to the hormones. So there are many points that require your consideration, advice from your breeder and advice from your Veterinarian. In the world we live in today we are all trying to do the absolute best we can for our pets. We cannot, however play God. So once you have enough information sit with your family and have a brief discussion. Weigh the pros and cons of spaying and neutering and then make your decision. Then, forget about it. Once your decision has been made return to enjoying your Lab puppy for the time you have with them.