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View All Articles in Ear Health .Grooming Table A good grooming table will take your home grooming salon to another level. The dog grooming arm attached to the table will keep your pup safe and still, so you can focus on the grooming. You can either build a DIY grooming table or buy a great dog grooming table. Firstly, all Doodles are prone to matting. So naturally, brushing will help prevent any knots and tangles before they even get to form into mats. Also, every now and then or every day! Or when they get smelly… Here you can learn all of our best Doodle bathing tips and tricks. This should be done weekly, or in some cases, every days. Make sure to check out our ultimate dog nail trimming guide. In addition, trim their inner ear hair to avoid dirt and bacteria getting trapped. This will prevent bad smell and discoloration around the eyes. As all dogs are unique, there is no one-size-fits-all rule. For instance, how frequently you bathe your Bernedoodle depends on their activity levels, skin conditions, coat type, and hair length. Some dogs may need baths every week, while some require bathing only before hair trimming. The best way to deal with matting is to prevent it. Luckily, you have the option to choose from a variety of cute Bernedoodle grooming styles. The sooner you introduce your Bernedoodle puppy to grooming, the easier it is for your pup to get used to it. Are Bernedoodles High Maintenance? Bernedoodles and other Doodles might seem high maintenance to some. Doodles need regular brushing and haircuts to keep that coat looking gorgeous. The best tip is to brush your Bernedoodle daily to maintain a beautiful coat without too much effort. If you decide to groom at home, you will have to factor in the cost of all the grooming tools. High-quality Bernedoodle grooming tools usually last longer. Why is My Bernedoodle Shedding? If your Bernedoodle is shedding, we recommend you brush them daily to remove the loose hair from the coat. Let us know in the comments! Take matters into your own hands and learn to give your Doodle the exact haircut YOU want with this valuable online course! Learn More The information on this page is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional groomer advice. Always seek the advice of your groomer, veterinarian, or other qualified animal health provider with any questions you may have. You Might Also Like. The Poodle is, of course, quite famous for its distinctive haircuts, so it can be expected that the Bernedoodle should sport a great haircut as well. The Berner originated in the Swiss Alps and has a thick double coat consisting of a woolly undercoat and an outer coat that is a little longer and shaggy. The Berner is famous for his black, rust, and white coloring. Unfortunately, he sheds a great deal, which requires brushing several times a week. The Poodle actually has a single coat of hair that consists of very dense, curly hair rather than fur that sheds minimally. They are considered hypoallergenic and make great dogs for allergy sufferers, and they come in a wide variety of colors. Grooming the Poodle is more of an ordeal than it is for the Berner, and for many Poodle owners, the easiest option is bringing the dog into a professional groomer or keeping their Poodle closely trimmed. Their coats may be the same rust, black, and white as their Berner parent, or they could be black, black and white, or many other variations. The fur will more than likely be wavy at the very least but, more often than not, has some of the same curls as their Poodle parent. The more curlier their coat, the more likely they will shed less and will be hypoallergenic. There are several haircuts you can opt into for your Bernedoodle, so, without further ado, here are 8 haircuts for you to consider in alphabetical order: 1. This could also be a different version of the Summer Cut, which can be seen below at number 7. This one has the easiest upkeep as your Bernedoodle is essentially shaved down, which will not only keep him cool, but it will prevent dirt and mats from accumulating in his hair. Lamb Cut A post shared by Sully and Tonks sullyandtonks The Lamb Cut allows for a longer length of hair on the body, and the legs are also kept fuzzy and longer. The face, tail, and feet are usually shaved closely but with a fluffy topknot and ears. This cut involves closely shaving the hair down on the body and legs but leaving tufts of hair on the tip of the tail and feet. Poodle-Inspired Cut This Bernedoodle haircut will look exactly as it sounds. Most of us are familiar with the traditional Poodle cut, short fur on the legs and body, and longer hair on the lower parts of the legs, the top of the head, and the tail. The ears, tail, topknot, and legs are always thick and fluffy. This cut may suit some Bernedoodles since they are part Poodle but will only work if they have the traditional Poodle curls. The hair is usually layered along the legs, feet, and sides of the body. The hair on his head is cut rounded and in layers. This cut can be any length you want but is guaranteed to make your Bernedoodle look adorable. Summer Cut The Summer Cut is a different version of the Winter Cut see below but with the hair trimmed shorter over the entire body so your Bernedoodle will stay cooler over the hotter months. It is kept about less than an inch on the body and 1 inch on the legs, but with longer hair on the tail. It looks similar to the Winter Cut but is just shorter overall. Summing up Bernadoodles Haircuts Considerations should be made regarding how much time you have for grooming and how comfortable you would like them to be. It might be fun to experiment to decide which one of these will not only best suit your Bernedoodle, but what he seems to be the most comfortable in. Grooming Shears Dog grooming tools for your dog. Your Bernedoodle may not need some heavy-duty grooming shears, but they may require a shedding blade to help remove excess hair. Always start slow and take your time, praising your Bernedoodle along the way. Train Your Bernedoodle Before you begin grooming your Bernedoodle, be sure to get familiar with the equipment, the sounds they make, and how they feel. Be careful not to hurt your Bernedoodle with any of the equipment because that will only make them fearful of the experience. Despite having more Poodle genetics, F1b Bernedoodles still often have the distinctive tri-color markings Jet black, clear white, and rust Consider using a week to get your Bernedoodle familiar with the tools by letting them sniff the tools and hear what they sound like before you engage in actual grooming. Use treats and positive reinforcement to make them comfortable with you grooming them. It can be challenging to know when to throw in the towel and reach out to a pet grooming service, but this may be the easiest option. Here are just a few of the reasons why you may want to outsource grooming to a professional: Your Bernedoodle is scared. You feel too nervous grooming them. Your Bernedoodle is not sitting still. Your Bernedoodle is not trained for grooming with you. Seek out the help of a professional groomer to keep you and your Bernedoodle happy with grooming and ease as much anxiety as possible. Tips for the Groomers When you choose to see a professional groomer instead of doing the haircut yourself, you may want to ensure that you and your Bernedoodle are getting the most out of the experience. Although this can be challenging, some tips can make the process smoother and ensure that your Bernedoodle receives exactly the haircut you desire. A cordless clipper for dogs. Explain it to your groomer by pointing out different sections and telling them how exactly you want your Bernedoodle to look. However, remember that mistakes happen, and hair will always grow back. Show Pictures When possible, pull up pictures of how you want your Bernedoodle to look. Pictures of other Bernedoodle looks can help you and your groomer figure out how to achieve the look and discover if that groomer is capable of creating the look. Ask About the Process If you have any questions, you should always ask the groomer who will be working with your Bernedoodle. Questions are always welcome, and a groomer will want to ensure that you and your dog are happy with the service and feel as safe as possible. Final Thoughts Bernedoodles are perfect family dogs because they are calm, loving, and goofy. Bernedoodles have a luxurious coat of hair that mixes the curly nature of Poodles with the color combinations of Bernese Mountain Dogs. This dog breed also has many characteristics of its parent dogs, leading to a calm and gentle grooming experience. Bernedoodles are eager to please and easy to train, meaning grooming your Bernedoodle at home can be a fun and exciting experience. Ensure you have all the proper tools and that your dog is trained well to make grooming your Bernedoodle at home a dream come true. But it can be a challenging experience for busy parents, those without experience, or those with a Bernedoodle who is scared of trimmers. Know when to take your Bernedoodle to a professional grooming service to make things easier on you and your loving Bernedoodle. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Grooming Your Bernedoodle Grooming Your Bernedoodle The Bernedoodle breed, also referred to as a Bernese mountain poo, is the product of a Bernese mountain dog parent and a poodle parent. This hybrid dog breed combines the best characteristics of both types of dog, such as the intelligence and low-shedding coat from its poodle part and the unwavering loyalty and laid-back demeanor of its Bernese mountain dog part. This combination of dog breeds also makes Bernedoodles irresistibly fluffy, with several variations in coat types. Of course, this means grooming your Bernedoodle should be done reglarly. Consider this your ultimate guide on how to properly groom a Bernedoodle , complete with a list of popular Bernedoodle haircuts you can choose to keep your furry family member looking its best. Keep reading to learn more about grooming needs. Except, of course, the fact that they require a substantial amount of grooming. More on that later. Keep in mind that grooming this breed is more than simply keeping its hair clean and trimmed. It also involves nail clipping, regular brushing and keeping its skin moisturized. For some people, the rule of thumb for Bernedoodle baths is whenever their pup starts to smell or becomes visibly dirty. Regular grooming will keep your dog happy and healthy. Bernedoodle Coats and Shedding As previously mentioned, Bernedoodles have different types of coats, and each coat type comes with different attributes. These are the different Bernedoodle coat types and what you can expect from them in regard to grooming. Straight coats are a characteristic of the Bernese mountain dog parent. A wavy-haired Bernedoodle will have a much softer coat compared to straight coats and be more prone to matting. Curly coats wool are a characteristic of a pure poodle parent. However, these coats need regular daily brushing because of their tightly wound curls, the coat type most susceptible to matting. The general consensus for weekly brushing is: Your dog needs a minimum brushing of twice a week to get rid of any dead or loose fur. As long as you commit to it a few times a week, it should be fine. Most Bernedoodle owners stick to two to three times per week, paying close attention to whether their dog needs an extra brushing session or two. You should bathe your Bernedoodle every two to three months and whenever they get into something dirty, like mud puddles. For both straight-haired Bernedoodles and curly-haired Bernedoodles, most groomers recommend you bring them in every four to six weeks for maintenance. However, a puppy is a different story and will likely take more effort on your part to train it to become accustomed to the process. The goal is to make brushing and bathing a positive experience for your Bernedoodle puppy so the process becomes easier each time you do it. To keep from scaring your puppy during bath time, pre-fill the tub or sink with lukewarm water before bringing it into the room. Be very gentle as you soak and wash it, giving more praise during the process. Refrain from scolding if it hesitates or is visibly afraid — this is an important part of their development, and fear can lead to anxiety issues later on. To do this, handle their paws beforehand, one at a time, increasing the amount of time each day. Once puppy vaccinations are complete, you can take them to the groomer. So, fill up the tub with lukewarm water, and be sure to soak it thoroughly before adding the shampoo. Give it a thorough rinse, then follow the same steps with the conditioner. Be sure to speak with your dog groomer first about what they recommend for your specific breed, as well as which services such as conditioning count as an additional option. Many Bernedoodle owners opt for a shorter haircut as it reduces at-home grooming time. You can also alternate Bernedoodle haircuts to try out different styles or get it ready for changing seasons. However, it will require more frequent brushing, especially if your Bernedoodle has curly hair. The Bernedoodle Summer Cut, as expected, is much shorter. The Bernedoodle Poodle Cut imitates the traditional look of a poodle and can become high maintenance, as the hair will be longer on some body parts. This cut works best on curly and wavy hair. The Bernedoodle Lamb Cut is another poodle hairstyle in which the hair is the same length all around with the face, feet and most of the tail shaved. Keep in mind that when you groom a Bernedoodle , it should be a bonding experience. So, learn to do it correctly and make sure you have the proper tools and the time to commit to your pup.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Labrador retrievers are beloved family members. But too much of a good thing—food and treats—can lead to many potential health problems. If your Labrador Retriever is starting to get a little pooch in his belly your might be thinking how much should my lab weigh? But there are many factors that enter into what determines a healthy weight for your particular lab. And female labs should weigh between 55 and 70 pounds and be between .But keep in mind that even healthy labs may fall outside of these guidelines. There are many variables that enter into why a dog is a particular weight, including the following: Genetics. The parents and family tree of a lab determine his potential size and structure. Diet and nutrition. In order to reach his potential, a lab requires the proper diet for his stage of life and activity level. A lab who is a couch potato will generally require fewer calories than one who is active. Female labs usually weigh less than male labs at the same life stage. English vs. American Labrador Retrievers Although there is no recognized separate breed of English and American labs , in reality there are distinctions regarding their breeding. English labs are bred for the conformation ring and generally weigh in at the higher end of the desired range for labs. And they may weigh even 20 more pounds than American labs without being overweight. American labs, aka field-bred labs, are bred from working lines, in order to hunt. They are leaner and more muscular than English labs. There is no definitive guide stating that labs of certain colors weigh more than others. But their breeding and function enters into whether a lab will weigh more. Black Labradors. Black labs are found in both English and American labs. But an English-bred lab is likely to weigh more than an American lab is. Chocolate Labradors. They are more likely to be from conformation lines than those from working, field lines. So chocolate labs are more likely to be at the higher end of the weight spectrum. Yellow Labradors. They are found in both show and field lines, so there is no likelihood that a yellow lab will weigh more. Other colors. Although not a recognized color, red fox labs are generally American, field-type labs. What Is an Ideal Lab Weight? Muscle weighs more than fat does by volume. Body condition and general health determines what your lab should weigh. Labrador retrievers usually reach their full height between nine and 12 months of age. There are nine different levels that are measured. And you gently palpate the dog to feel how much fat covers those areas. In the first three levels of the chart, a dog is determined to be too thin. Ribs, lumbar vertebrae, and pelvic bones are prominent. And there may even be muscle wasting. There is no to little discernible body fat. And there is an obvious waist and abdominal tuck. In the ideal range, levels four to five, ribs are palpable without excess fat. The waist is easily noted when viewed from above. And there is an evident abdominal tuck when viewed from the side. In the last four levels of body condition, steps six to nine, the dog is too heavy. And the dog has a discernible but not prominent waist when viewed from above and an apparent tummy tuck when viewed from the side. The last three steps range from the ribs barely being palpable to massive fat deposits over the body with no abdominal tuck and even abdominal distension. So you really need to determine where your dog is along this scale. If in doubt, check with your vet to determine whether your lab is an appropriate weight for his age, size, and activity level. So expect them to keep weighing more during that period. Factors regarding how large a lab will get include: Genetics. Generally larger parents and lineage means larger lab puppies. Paw size. Of course, as a lab gets older, he should grow. During the first six months, a lab has rapid rate increases, including growth spurts. On average, a puppy will gain about two or so pounds per week. So a five-week-old puppy will be about 10 pounds and a week-old puppy around 26 pounds. All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. Between 8 weeks and 10 months, your puppy has a ton of growing to do, and they change drastically from month to month. Each stage of growth requires specific attention, exercise, and diet, so there is much to learn and pay attention to these different growth stages. There may be behavioral challenges while your pup adjusts to their new life without their mother and siblings. This period of adjustment can sometimes lead to fearful and timid behavior, and your puppy will need as much attention and affection as possible. They should be eating 3—4 small meals a day at this stage. You can begin basic command, leash, and potty training at this point too. Although the schedule is not complete this is a critical period to begin socialization and making sure they are calm and friendly with other dogs, just make sure they are also vaccinated. We highly recommend making training a part of their daily activities at this age. Biting can be an issue at this stage too, as they will begin teething, and they will start exploring and chewing whatever they can find. Chew toys and consistent command reinforcement are both vital for avoiding this behavior. The good news is that your puppy will grow out of this habit at around 6 months old. Your lab should also be house-trained by this point, but there may still be the occasional accident. Remember to be gentle but firm when this happens, and your pooch will likely move through it swiftly. They will begin losing their baby teeth at this point, and biting and chewing may reach its peak. Firm but gentle commands, chew toys, and loads of patience are essential at this stage. Your puppy will be testing the limits and may start showing dominance, ignoring known commands, and asserting more independence. You can now drop their meals down to two meals per day, but be sure that they are not eating too quickly. Your puppy will start to closely resemble an adult at 6 months, but remember that mentally, they are still puppies and will need loads of direction and training. Females may enter their first heat at 6—7 months, so keep a careful watch for stray males. They will still display puppy tendencies and traits and have a ton of excitable energy, but they should be fairly obedient and well-trained by this stage. Be sure to give your Labrador plenty of exercise at this stage to help keep them from misbehavior. They will have reached their full height by now but may still gain weight and muscle mass in the coming months. Unless you intend on breeding, you should consider neutering and spaying your puppy to avoid wandering and unwanted pregnancies. While some breeders recommend that you wait until a year old, this is a perfectly suitable time to perform the procedure. They may still gain weight and muscle mass but much slower than during the past few months. They will still display puppy characteristics and even test boundaries, but all in all, they should be obedient and well-trained by now. They will have a ton of energy and still enjoy playtimes and loads of exercise. While they are at their full height at this age, some Labs may appear lanky and still have weight to fill out in the coming months. When Do Labradors Stop Growing? All dogs are unique, and the question of when they stop growing is largely dependent on the individual. Anecdotally, your Lab should have reached their full weight by 18 months and full height by 9—12 months. Most breeders agree that your Lab will stop growing at some point during their second year. Even so, any weight gain during their second year will be minimal, and they will have done the majority of their growth by their first birthday. Mentally, they are out of the puppyhood phase of testing boundaries and disobedience by their first year— if correctly trained. If you have been consistent in training thus far, your Lab should be friendly, obedient, and well-behaved from their first birthday and into adulthood. In males, neutering can sometimes result in a calmer, more relaxed dog, and this, in turn, will slow down his need for exercise and may result in weight gain. A study in showed that dogs neutered before 37 weeks may gain more weight, while dogs that had the procedure after 37 weeks had a slower growth trajectory. The difference was minimal, though, and there is no reason to assume that these procedures have much of an effect on growth rates in dogs. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth While some puppies may grow quicker or slower than the agreed-upon average, this is usually nothing to be concerned about due to the individual and unique nature of dogs. However, if your pooch is gaining weight rapidly or not gaining enough, there may be deeper issues to look into. If your dog is from working or hunting stock, they may be smaller than average Labs and are usually lighter for work in the field. Size may also be genetic, and if your Lab comes from small parents, they will be smaller than average. The same may be true of heavier-than-average Labs—if their parents are large, they will likely be similar in size. However, larger-than-average weights may also be due to overfeeding or a lack of exercise , or a combination of both, so be sure to keep their exercise and feeding habits consistent. Image Credit: rebeccaashworth, Shutterstock Growth Distinctions of Different Labradors Although they are designated under the same breed, there are two different types of common Labradors: English and American. English Labradors tend to be stockier and more muscular than their American counterparts and have a thick, waterproof coat , while American Labs have a slender build with a slightly finer coat. English Labs are slightly shorter, topping out at around 22 inches, but their stocky and muscular build often makes them heavier than American Labs. In fact, English Labs have been known to weigh up to 20 pounds more than American Labs without being considered overweight. American Labs are known to be slightly more active and energetic than English Labs, while English Labs tend to be less excitable and more laid back. English Labs are by no means lazy, though, and they still have plenty of energy and stamina to go around. Conclusion: Monthly Labrador Growth Pictures Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand the growth rate of your Labrador puppy and given you a better idea of what to expect during the different stages. See also:. Also the last meal of the day is several hours before bed time. The principles are the same. How much should my 9 week old puppy weigh? Your best guide to whether or not your puppy is growing properly is how he behaves and feels, rather than what the scales say. As a rough guide, many 9 week old lab puppies will weigh between lbs or a couple of pounds either side of this. Check out our puppy growth FAQ for more information. Puppy weights may also vary quite considerably between the two different types of Labrador field and show and even between individuals from the same litter. Potty training a 9 week old puppy Nine weeks is often the point at which people start to worry about potty training progress, or rather, lack of it. Perhaps you are taking your Labrador puppy outside after every meal, and every time he wakes up, but he is still making puddles all over the house. So what is going on? Nine week old pups have very poor bladder control, and short memories. He is still very much a baby and will need your help in this department for some time to come. Your role is to restrict his access to areas where mistakes are most likely to happen, through the use of baby gates or some other kind of temporary barrier. You will also need to take him outside before his bladder is over flowing which might be every twenty minutes at certain times of the day and to generally ensure that every wee goes in the right place. Check out our complete guide to potty training for more information. This is such a common concern, and often arises for the first time at about nine weeks. The puppy is settled in his new home, his shyness has worn off, his confidence is back, and he is ready for some fun. Concerns arise, simply because most people do not realise just how ferocious Labrador puppies seem when they play. Puppies bite hard and make a lot of noise and this is usually quite normal. Check out this article on puppy aggression to reassure yourself that you have not bought a vicious wild animal into your home. How much to feed a 9 week old puppy Many puppies, especially Lab puppies, are very greedy and wolf down every morsel you provide for them. Puppies like this will eat far more than they need and quickly become obese if you let them decide on quantities. You also need to bear in mind that every brand of puppy food is different. You can then add a little more to each meal if the puppy is not gaining weight steadily, or reduce the meals a tiny bit if he is getting too plump. However, if your puppy normally eats heartily and suddenly goes off his food, all food, then he may be unwell. Have a chat with your vet if you are concerned, especially if your puppy misses more than one meal. On the other hand, if he is quite happy to eat an alternative menu, the chances are he is simply exercising his right to an opinion. I strongly recommend you ignore this, and simply take his bowl away. You can offer the same meal later when the puppy is more hungry. If you are interested in feeding your puppy on a more natural diet, you may enjoy our guide to raw feeding: Raw feeding for dogs. And provided that you use modern methods, which are great fun for dogs of all ages. Fortunately this is not a problem at all, because a nine week old puppy does not need a walk. What he needs is space to trot about and play. And your yard or garden is probably suitable for this. So, you have all the time in the world, in which to introduce your puppy to his collar and lead. Let him wear a collar for a short while each day. Clip the lead on from time to time and let it trail. Distract him with food and cuddles. Occasionally pick up the end and encourage him to follow you. Just drop your email address into the box below: Socializing your 9 week old puppy We have known for several decades that puppies need to be exposed to different types of experiences before they are three months old , in order to become confident and fearless. Yet far too many puppies are kept at home, away from the world in those important first few weeks. Socialization is all about raising a friendly confident dog, and proper socialization helps to avoid problems like fearfulness and aggression. That means taking your puppy to lots of different places, carrying them in your arms or a carrier, to avoid contact with potential sources of infection. Enrolling your puppy in a well-supervised, modern force free training class can be a great way of building social confidence too. Studies have shown that puppies enrolled in classes before 20 weeks of age are less likely to be fearful than puppies kept at home. The same goes for houses you regularly visit with only dogs that you are confident have been recently vaccinated. Leaving a 9 week old puppy alone during the day is not a good idea. At this stage of their life they have only been in your home for a short time, and are still settling in. They need constant supervision for toilet training, and are probably still learning to be happy in their crate. Can I bathe my 9 week old puppy? But Labradors being Labradors, there is bound to come a point when you have a sticky or messy pup on your hands! Just use a gentle shampoo designed for puppies, and try to make the process fun for your little one. You might find the kitchen sink or a large plastic bowl is a lot less scary than the great big family bathtub.

Loyalty, affection, intelligence, work ethic, and good looks: Boxers are the whole doggy package. Bright and alert, sometimes silly, but always courageous, the Boxer has been among America's most popular dog breeds for a very long time. A male can stand as high as 25 inches at the shoulder and weigh lbs; females are a little smaller, lbs and inches tall. Their muscles ripple beneath a short, tight-fitting coat, and the dark brown eyes and wrinkled forehead give the face an alert, curious look. The coat can be fawn or brindle, with white markings, and some are born solid white. Boxers move like the athletes they are named for: smooth and graceful, with a powerful forward thrust. Boxers are upbeat and playful. Their patience and protective nature have earned them a reputation as a great dog with children. They take the jobs of watchdog and family guardian seriously and will meet threats fearlessly. Boxers do best when exposed to a lot of people and other animals in early puppyhood. The Bullenbeisser descended from Mastiffs was crossed with the Old English bulldog to eventually produce the modern breed. Bullenbeissers were generally used as catch dogs for hunting bear, wild boar, and deer. With their strong jaws, they would catch and hold prey until their hunter masters came. The first Boxers were developed to be a smaller, faster dog for similar purposes. Unfortunately, like their bulldog ancestors, Boxer dogs were sometimes used for bull-baiting, and, after the practice was outlawed, for dog fighting. Many are still working dogs, for the military and as police dogs. But most have taken an equally important place as the popular companion dog we know and love today. Boxers are, for the most part, versatile dogs. But be wary of leaving your Boxer dog unattended with access to local pets in your neighborhood. A strong fence without escape routes is a good idea. And although Boxers do well in hot weather, white ones might need some sunscreen. Yes, dog sunscreen is a thing. A bored boxer will chew, lick, and dig to excess, so a kennel or crate may be necessary when you need to be away for longer than they like. In the perfect world, a boxer owner would work part-time, or from home, so that they could spend maximum time caring for and bonding with their pet. After a puppy is reserved its is our goal to make the update within minutes with few exceptions outside holidays and unforeseen events. You can be confident the available puppies and their pictures shown are accurate and up to date. Fast forward 6 years. Although I never did get to have "Tiger Lily," that puppy was never far from my mind. Opportunity struck when I met a new friend, Lorie Boodry, who shared the same passion for boxers I strived to. This wonderful woman gave me my very first boxer at 16 years old, and that boxer was by my side until bloat took her from me at almost 14 years old. I had to give her back to the Lord and the wonderful woman who gifted her to me. That boxer is Raynen On Your Parade. And the name Raynen Boxers was born. I'm a boxer lover to the core with an interest in obedience training and 3 little boys who keep me too busy to do much with it. My boxers make our house a home and it's my wish for you to have a boxer to love too! We're not an ordinary pet breeder. We're also not show breeders, or working dog breeders. Our boxers are pets, they're farm dogs. They live in our house, sleep on our couch, and get hand fed by our toddlers. But we do strive to make good citizens of them. Our dogs have been to obedience classes and have earned some titles along the way. I owned a 13 year old boxer, my first boxer, and it's my goal that your next boxer lives just as long. I have done pedigree research and bought my dogs from breeders who know their dogs for generations. My dogs are health tested so I can do my very best to assure your next dog is as healthy as a breeder can make them. Hip evaluations, Holter reports, DNA testing, and echocardiograms are done on all of our dogs. I bred 4 litters of boxers in .I bought my own male in , a perfect flashy fawn with plans to breed boxers for generations. He was my Wreckless Intentions! Years later all of my girls were spayed and Wrecker was just a couch potato. Wrecker has unfortunately passed away, but I bought Sunshine from Lorie Boodry's last litter. She is a great great granddaughter of Wrecker's and a great niece to Rayne, generations of breeding by my dear friend Lorie Boodry. But wait, this all keeps wrapping around to my past, to my best friend Lorie, to Lorie's original boxer and her daughter who is my original boxer. Our stud at Raynen Boxers is Bo, a grandson of Rayne! His dad was from my very first litter of boxer puppies. Rayne was bred to an outside stud in and produced an entire litter of male puppies. One of those boys sired Bo years later, and now here Bo is, standing next to his grandma with perfect health test results, ready to sire your next boxer. Along the way I've added a couple of outcross bloodlines from breeders I trusted and kept a puppy from Bo and Sunshine. My big boy Sailor is sired by a Croatian import, but all of my other Boxers are American. When I bred boxers years ago, I knew nothing about health testing. It's my goal to do better for my family and yours. After laying low and raising my own babies for a few years, I'm extremely excited to be raising puppies again, for you! All Rights Reserved. Created and maintained by Serenity Anderson. My name is Manda and I met my first Boxer puppy when I was 5 years old, my Dad brought her home for the family on Christmas Eve and we have been a Boxer family ever since. My love for Boxers rubbed off on my boyfriend Bobby and now he loves Boxers just as much as I do. We have been rescuing boxers since and breeding boxers since .We began raising select puppies to form a small breeding program that over the past few years has continued to thrive and grow. Our goal is to raise quality puppies that are healthy, happy, and well socialized, with wonderful temperaments. Our pups are raised in our home, they receive a lot of socialization, love, and affection from us and our children who love spending time playing with them. We strive to produce puppies that will forever enrich the lives of their new families as they do ours every day! All of our Boxers see the veterinarian for their yearly checkups and vaccinations or anything else as needed. Our puppies visit the veterinarian at 7 weeks to assure you receive a healthy puppy with all of its appropriate vaccinations and deworming's. We love our Boxers and treat them as our kids so we will not sell our puppies or dogs to Puppy Mills, Pet Stores, Brokers or otherwise and HavenWoods Boxer's reserves the right to refuse the sale of any puppy, to any person, for any reason, at any time. If you are any of the above please do not bother to contact us; our puppies will ONLY be placed with families that are seeking a 'forever home' for our pups. Since rescuing Boxers and breeding Boxers, we have had many wonderful experiences and made many new and wonderful friends along the way! We hope to continue this journey for years to come! As puppies become available you can find them in the 'available puppies' page on this website. Prices will vary based on the parents. We also request that when a boxer puppy is purchased from us, if for any reason you become unable to care for your Boxer please return the puppy or dog to us and allow us to raise it or find an appropriate loving home for your pet. We care about all of our boxers as part of our family and want to see them all find their 'forever families'. The Future of HavenWoods Boxers. Please view my guestbook for comments from happy families that have purchased their new family member from HavenWoods Boxers. Additional references are available upon request. My Veterinarian:.

You can now place safe, refundable deposits backed by freeads pets using your credit or debit card with funds held until YOU release them. Mother and Father - Russian champions, working dogs with many excellent marks in obedience and police training. X-ray is made, official certificate confirms that no dysplasia found. Puppies will have all vaccinations, vet passports, Russian official pedigree. Why East European Shepherd? This type was characterized by being larger, harmoniously built, strong, dry and well-defined muscles, sturdy bone structure and well-balanced character with a confident demeanor. The German and East-European Shepherds have common origin, yet feature different exterior and behavioral traits. The East-European Shepherd is rather silent while on duty, which makes this breed perfect as a guard or watch dog. Modern pedigree East-European Shepherd has never become yet another «fashionable or «decorating breed due to the fact that breeders strongly appreciate this dog for its unique working qualities. Numerous professional dog trainers and dog-breeders prefer the East-European Shepherd breed for its reliability, loyalty and intelligence. Will organize all the documents, delivery and support. Price for puppies from Moscow "ex work", delivery and any extra costs are subject for discussion. Kind regards, MV Venezia and puppies owners. Ad ID:. However it is very likely that audited breeders in our wide network do or will have top quality, super cute East-European Shepherd puppies for sale either now or in the near future. For this reason we suggest that you fill out the below form, and let us know exactly what you are looking for. Tell us the gender, colour, and bloodline of your ideal East-European Shepherd puppy, the planned timing of your purchase, and where you would like your new pup to be delivered to. As soon as your inquiry is in, our dedicated team will start contacting our panel of breeders and will provide detailed information on the available dogs. Let us help you find the perfect dog for you Please, fill in the below form. We will then search our database for East-European Shepherd breeders and their litters and propose several puppies that we feel suit you and your lifestyle best. Didn't you find the right puppy? Please fill in the below form. Have you found your puppy amongst our above East-European Shepherd puppies for sale? If you like one or more of our East-European Shepherd puppies for sale above, feel free to visit their profile pages. You will see the date of birth, info on bloodline, age, colour and more useful information. Our Services and Guarantees You may either find your future puppy amongst our published East-European Shepherd puppies for sale or, based on a special search, we will locate your future East-European Shepherd puppy, and he or she will come with our certified services and guarantees. All our puppies come from audited show breeders. Pups are fully vaccinated, treated for internal and external parasites, micro-chipped and checked by vet multiple times. All this is registered in an international vaccination book Pet Passport. Our puppies come from top breeders, and we are happy to offer you any of our East-European Shepherd puppies for sale with two types of guarantees: 10 year Health and Lifetime Puppyness Guarantee. Live the amazing life of a dog owner and opt for one of our East-European Shepherd puppies for sale. Contact us today and start an exciting journey. Watchdog Ability: Overview The East European Shepherd short name of the breed in Russian is VEO - Vostochno Evropeyskaya Ovcharka is an independent breed of guard dogs, bred in the Soviet Union in the middle of the last century for service in the army, the border troops, the police, in the national economy in different climatic conditions. The Cynologists were tasked to create on the basis of these dogs a new breed of shepherd dogs, which would differ from the German Shepherd by behavioral reactions and would be more massive and sturdy. As a result of this large selection work produced over more than half a century in the USSR, a new breed was bred called East European Shepherd. During the second world war VEO were messengers, mine detectors, used for border service, in rescue work, in search of explosives, to protect people and their property. East European Shepherds participated in the Victory Parade on the Red Square in Moscow in May and were recognized as the most patriotic breed of dog. People believe that if you rub the bronze nose of the dog or touch its paw, it will bring good luck. The first standard VEO was approved in .East European Shepherd is one of the most beloved and popular breeds in Russia today. The breed is not yet recognized by FCI. Character East European Shepherds are balanced, confident, attentive, trainable, reliable companions and bodyguards. The most striking feature of the nature of VEO is his focus on his owner. At the same time has extremely active-defensive reaction to a dangerous situation. The breed is ideal for dog training and they willingly show obedience, not trying to dominate the owner and to show its independence. VEO gets along well with other pets and always takes care of them. The dogs of this breed are very good in nature in all its manifestations. They are devoted friends of man, always cheerful, active and ready to defend their owner and his family. The East European Shepherd loves children, can play with them and never hurt. The East European Shepherd is recommended for the active owners. Temperament The East European Shepherd is distinguished for loyalty, courage and the ability to assimilate and retain training for a number of special services. VEO training is aimed at explaining to the animal what his owner wants from him. Understanding your desires, your puppy will be out of their way to try to fulfill them as exactly as possible. Training a puppy of this breed should be strict, but without violence, otherwise you risk developing a sneaky and aggressive animal. The natural ability of the East European Shepherd for training definitely needs to be developed from the first months of your puppy's life. To start this process it is necessary to establish contact with the puppy; the owner and the dog must learn to understand each other. Care This breed is fairly undemanding, and all it needs is to ensure minimum hygienic procedures, to give regular physical activity and properly fed. East European Shepherds can live both in the aviary and in an apartment. VEO doesn't require frequent bathing and it should be done only if necessary. Regular brushing the coat will keep it looking clean and well-groomed. Coat The East European Shepherd is a double coat breed. The outer coat is thick, harsh, straight, mid-length, tight-fitting. The undercoat is well developed, thick and soft, often lighter than guard hairs. The coat comes in a variety of colors such as black and tan, black and cream, black and silver, solid black, and sable. The German Shepherd comes in three varieties: rough coat, long hair, and long rough coat. This breed is a continuous shedder with seasonal heavy shedding. The hair on the head, including the inner surface of the ears, on the front of the legs, paws and toes is kept short, on the neck slightly longer and thicker. On the back of the thighs, the hair is longer. Training The East European Shepherd requires early intensive and extensive socialization and obedience training. They will not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. This breed is obedient and quick to learn. This breed has a high level of intelligence; they are perfectly trainable and happy to repeat the exercises during a workout. According to their psychological type, VEO are the ideal executors, the owner is perceived as the undisputed leader. Successful training VEO need close psychological contact with the owner. Properly structured, a trust relationship with a dog of this breed lead to the rapid success of the animal in the development of teams in a fairly early age. Activity East European Shepherds are a large working dog, so this dog requires regular long walks, active physical activities to release her energy. In order for your puppy to grow up physically strong, properly developed, it also requires long walks, the correct physical activity, and games in the air. VEO is a dog for active people. Weight Male: ; Female: lbs Height Male: ; Female: inches Color s Black and grey, black and fawn, black, grey-shaded, pepper and salt-red Characteristics.

German Shepherd Puppies are lovingly home raised and socialized at our modern 5 acre park like Kennel Facility in Florida Jacksonville. These are just a few words that describe our German shepherds. Life with a German Shepherd is a joy that one must experience to appreciate and understand, and the intelligence of these great dogs must be seen to be believed. AKC Registered Puppies In Lakeland Our dogs have provided countless individuals and families with a loyal pet that has a high aptitude, as well as the ability to provide protection. Each of the German shepherd puppies we have for sale are AKC registered and come from a superior lineage. Notably, our German Shepherds go through rigorous testing to qualify for breeding, as our dogs are bred with top sires that have at least a V or VA show rating. German Shepherds are well known for their character and temperament. Poised and confident, our pups are faithful and intelligent companions. They are also great protection dogs, as many safeguard homes, property or livestock. Our breeding program has earned the the highest level of accomplishments that a kennel in the United States can achieve. All of our German Shepherds come with a written guarantee and have been vet-checked, socialized, vaccinated to date, temperament-tested by a professional dog trainer, and above all, have been very much loved. Our German Shepherds are gorgeous Black and Red color, big boned, and correct structure. This price is determined by the size of the puppy, and includes the flight ticket, pre-flight vet exam, a crate the perfect size for your puppy, and travel to the airport. Every year we hand select dogs to add to our breeding program to improve the breed. Breeding top producing west German Sieger show Line German Shepherds is number one in producing quality German Shepherd puppies for sale. Being a German Shepherd dog breeder requires breeding high quality German Shepherds from some of the top rated German Shepherds in Germany They are superior in health with parents being x-rayed with clear hips and elbows by the OFA or the SV. These German shepherd litters of puppies for sale will make great companion dogs as well as excellent conformation, show and working dogs. Their inclination towards making their masters happy, their mental soundness and their high degree of intelligence have made this dog a successful working dog and masterpiece companion for their owners. Our breeding male shepherds are from top pedigrees. You can also visit us on our Facebook page to see recent news. Visit our website, at any moment you may feel you need more information than what we supply here feel free to Contact Us. Our main goal is to produce dogs that will become very special to you. Contact Us with any questions you have about our puppies or anything else. He is a 2 year old pure bred White German Shepherd Dog. He has been trained in Search and Rescue with many successful recovery missions under his furry belt! He has an incredible innate sense about him that just is driven to work, and be with his human all the time. He is the happiest when he is with his humans and working! For this reason we are looking for a home where his talents can be utilized the most. He is ridiculously smart and needs a home where he can 'work' to some degree. He has been loved and trained with me from a young pup. He is now 2 years old, mentally and physically ready for a full working home. He will NOT go to a pet only home where he is sitting around the house waiting on his human to come home from work. He needs to utilize his skills in some form! He needs someone to commit to working him daily, either in training or missions. This boy has my whole heart and I will fulfill my promise to him that he finds the absolute perfect working home. He is an incredibly smart and intuitive boy who will bond instantly with his new handler. Please understand the connection a working dog has with his handler and don't take that lightly. While he will blend well into a family dynamic, his loyalty and trust are with his handler. If you do not meet the criteria, an application will not be considered for this dog.

Umbilical cord training Throughout the rest of this guide I will be referring to each of these 4 methods and when you should or could be using them. Once used to using the paper or the pads, you slowly cut the area covered until they reliably use just a couple of sheets and never miss. You then slowly move the paper toward the outside where another set is placed and you begin to encourage your puppy to go outside only, before completely removing the papers inside. At this point they will have made the transition. A top tip when paper training is when you clean away soiled paper, you should hold one piece back and place it as a middle layer of the new papers. Puppy pads have a scent that attracts a puppy, paper does not. Effectiveness: On a scale of 1 to 5, I give it a 3. This is confusing and will make the learning process take longer. Best suited to: Either people who are going to have an indoor bathroom spot long-term, or people who will not use a crate for training yet cannot commit to constantly supervising their puppy when inside the home. Ease of use: On a scale of 1 to 5, definitely a 5. But it does result in more mistakes from your puppy until later in life. Equipment needed: Nothing but stacks of old newspapers! A very cost-effective method. Description: The method takes advantage of the fact dogs have a natural instinct not to soil the area where they eat and sleep. Key to this is making the crate just large enough to stand in, turn around easily and lay down stretched out but no bigger. The rest of the time you watch them and regularly take them outside to potty to teach them good habits. Best suited to: Everybody! This is because you will have to crate train your puppy before you can use a crate for house training which does take time and effort. Click here for my free and detailed guide to crate training your puppy. Equipment needed: A suitable crate. I have a guide to help you select the right size and type that you can read by clicking here. Effectiveness: On a scale of 1 to 5, I tentatively give it a 3. It could actually score higher or lower depending on how committed you are and how successful at supervising your puppy you are. Best suited to: People who are against any kind of confinement and can stay at home to watch their puppy all day every day. Mostly people who work from home and the retired. But this method also forms a part of every house training plan, whether you use other methods alongside or not. This is because when a puppy is free inside a home, they MUST be closely supervised to prevent any mistakes. Ease of use: On a scale of 1 to 5, I give it a 2. It scores low as it requires a lot of input from you as the owner. It is quite draining never being able to take your eye of your puppy. Equipment needed: None. Not a crate, newspapers, puppy pads or anything. The cheapest of all the methods…unless you put a price on your time. But it is highly effective. Description: This technique calls for you to tether your puppy to you by leash and have them follow you wherever you go when inside your home. You will notice and be able to intervene and correct every possible mistake, taking them outside every time they need to relieve themselves. Used correctly, the opportunity for your puppy to make mistakes is completely removed so every single time they need to visit their bathroom spot is a training opportunity you will take advantage of and no mistake goes uncorrected. Best suited to: People who spend all their time at home with their puppy and would also enjoy literally being tied to their pup all day. Further Info: for a detailed discussion of this technique, the benefits, downside, and many more tips, please see my article: Umbilical Cord House Training: What is It? How Does It Work? A Mix Of 3 Methods I use and recommend a mixture of crate training, constant supervision and paper training. I use constant supervision extensively because when a puppy is outside of the crate you have to watch them diligently to avoid puppy mistakes. Admittedly this is somewhat going against my advice because I always recommend to avoid paper training if possible. It encourages or allows your puppy to toilet inside the home, before then training them not to do so. This is confusing to your puppy and harmful to our house training efforts. But even though I recommend against it, using paper training ever so occasionally as a fall back plan works well for me. Most dogs love being outside and will use any excuse to get out there and stay there. You do this by using a cue word and walking them on leash to their potty spot, not allowing them to do anything else and if they do not potty, taking them back inside and trying again in a few minutes. Because a full bladder or bowel is uncomfortable, dogs are happy to relieve themselves, but some may try to hold it if they think they can get to stay outside and sniff around a while. If people use different words, your dog will get confused. This will slowly teach them the command. And this is fine for the first couple of weeks while they have no bladder control and will perform their business very quickly. And some dogs even learn to actively hold their bladder just so they can stay outside to explore for longer. Before you can do this you need to first get your puppy used to wearing a collar and leash. Have You Got Everything Prepared? A Check-list Before You Start Like everything in life, house training runs smoother if you have everything ready before you start, hopefully before you even bring your puppy home. Have you: Decided on and marked out a suitable bathroom spot? Chosen and purchased a suitable high-quality nutritious food? Figured out the times of day you will feed your puppy? Got a collar and leash? Put in place a leash training plan? Bought a suitable crate and set it up in a suitable place? Bought bedding for the crate? Bought chew toys to occupy your puppy in the crate? Decided on the commands you will use if any? Purchased either baby gates, a pet barrier or an exercise pen for longer term confinement? Sourced stacks of newspapers or puppy pads to use in the long-term confinement area? Bought some small but highly tasty training treats to use as a reward? Bought specialized pet stain removing and odor neutralizing cleaning products? Bought a UV light to find hidden spots of urine that must be removed to prevent repeat accidents? Sat and discussed with every member of your household your finalized plans so everybody has the same info? Successful House Training Is All About Schedules And Routine Dogs thrive when living to schedules and routine, doing best when they have set times for eating, going to toilet, exercise, training and play. But because the passage of food through their digestive system stays roughly the same, if you feed your puppy at the same times every day they will need to defecate at roughly the same times every day. This results in fewer mistakes, more opportunities to praise your puppy for going in the right place and so speeds up their learning. Depending on their age a puppy will need to poop 3 to 6 times a day, and wee many more times than that. Can these times be predicted? Mostly they can. When a puppy needs to potty depends on when they last ate, drank and their recent activities. Mostly they need to go: First thing in the morning The instant they wake up from a nap at any time of the day Just before going to bed Within a few minutes of eating or drinking Immediately after a play session Immediately after any excitement But a puppy also needs to go many times per day regardless of recent activities, so you should also take your puppy to their bathroom spot on a consistent schedule such as the following: At 8 weeks old — every 30 mins. At 10 weeks old — every 45 mins. At 12 weeks old — every 1 to 1. At 16 weeks old — every 2 hours. At 20 weeks old — every 3 hours. Some will need to wee within 2 minutes of drinking, others after 20 minutes. Some will need a bathroom break within 2 minutes of waking, others 15 minutes later. You have to determine your puppies own natural tendencies and create a schedule to suit. To achieve this, you need to follow this 5 step process: Feed them to a strict schedule. Decide on exercise, play and training times. Develop a schedule including feeding, exercise, play, training and all scheduled potty times. Use the information gathered in your diary to learn from any mistakes and adjust your schedule for the following week. The more you can stick to schedules and routines, the smoother and faster the process will be. But you can stray from the path when necessary and still find success, it will just take a little longer. You should feed your puppy 3 times a day when 12 to 26 weeks old. From 26 weeks old and onwards, feed your puppy just two times a day For 2 meals a day you need to space them out 8 to 12 hours apart. What works for me is shortly after I get up at and when we have our evening meal between PM and PM. Availability Of Water: You should make sure fresh water is always available but because drinking too much or too little can be a sign of health problems, you do need to monitor their water intake. Physical activity often leads to a puppy needing to potty very soon after. So to encourage predictable potty times for your puppy, you want to schedule their exercise and play. Deciding when to exercise, train and play with your puppy is entirely up to you. You should fit it around your lifestyle and commitments, but try to make it the same times each day if you can. Enter all the following details into a single column in an excel spreadsheet, or write them down as a day schedule with a pen and paper: When you wake and add an instant bathroom break before you do ANYTHING for yourself! Enter the times you will play with, train and exercise your puppy. Enter a scheduled visit to the bathroom spot after each of the activities listed in points 1 to 3. Add scheduled bathroom visits after any length of time longer than your puppy should be expected to hold it according to their age. Write in scheduled sleeps for your puppy, place them in the crate or confinement area. After writing down this schedule, tick off each task as you go through the day with your puppy. This way you will always know what needs to be done and when, and there will be no confusion about whether someone else in the house fed, exercised or took the puppy to the loo. I discuss this further in step 5 below. You should be able to pick up on any patterns and adjust your own behavior to avoid mistakes in future. Was puppy left alone and peed in the living room while you made breakfast? Puppy should never be left alone unsupervised, learn from this mistake. Or maybe puppy peed in the crate after an hour? Learn from this mistake. Well done for watching them closely enough. So increase the frequency. Therefore you should stretch out the time between visits by 10 to 15 minutes for the following day. This is how you find out. And Now House Training is So Much Easier By writing out the schedule as in step 3, you should never forget to feed, train or take your puppy to potty. And by using the schedule as a diary as in step 5, you get feedback on how you and your puppy are performing, and are armed with the necessary info to make changes to your schedule over time. You, your puppy and their needs all stay in sync and house training becomes that much easier. Just make a spreadsheet in excel and print it out, or simply buy some lined paper. Keep it somewhere you can always see and know where it is, alongside a pen or pencil and write entries in it as you watch your puppy throughout the day. After this, continuing with a diary every day is the best advice, although keeping one for 3 consecutive days each week will be sufficient for you to pick up on any changes as they mature. Once your puppy is 5 to 6 months old, they will have sufficient bladder control and experience to make a schedule and diary unnecessary. Just make sure they get access to the outside at least once every 3 hours and all will be fine. Extending The Time Between Toilet Breaks I discussed earlier how a puppy will need regular visits to their bathroom spot, something like every 30 minutes at 8 weeks old, every 45 minutes at 10 weeks old and so on. But every puppy is different and their progress in having longer time between needed toilet breaks will vary too. You do this because as a puppy grows, the size of their bowel and bladder increases, so they will be able to hold more for longer and you want to take advantage of this. This is also teaching them necessary bladder and bowel control. Use your cue word before you take them: By using your chosen cue word every time before you take them to potty, your puppy will learn what the trip is about and what they must do. This eventually leads to faster results as they know what is expected of them. Lead your puppy to the bathroom spot on leash: This gives you the ability to keep your puppy at the bathroom spot and prevent them wandering off, getting distracted and forgetting what they are there for. Make sure you stay with them at their bathroom spot: If you have them on leash, then of course you will be. When they start to go, say your chosen cue word in a soft warm voice. Mix up the reward between play, time off leash and a food reward to keep them guessing, but keep the food rewards to a minimum as what goes in must come out and random feeding promotes random elimination times! Many people pop out, stand for 1 minute and then come back in. Some people recommend to stay out there for 10, 15, 20 minutes, whatever it takes until they go, then praise profusely when they do. I recommend you give them 3 to 5 minutes, saying your cue word every 30 seconds or so but otherwise standing silently still just holding their leash so they cannot wander off. Take them back to their bathroom spot in 10 minutes or so. If using a crate for house training: Pop them back in the crate and leave them for 10 minutes. Then take them back to their bathroom spot. Take them to their bathroom spot after 10 minutes. If not, take them away from their bathroom spot and watch them for 10 minutes before returning them to their bathroom spot. And if crate training, do not leave them in the crate too long else they may be forced to soil in there. Prevent this at all costs. Rinse and repeat the visits to and fro like this until they do potty, then follow the next sections advice. What You Should Do Between Scheduled Bathroom Breaks Between scheduled bathroom visits you should do two things: Allow some supervised free time in your home, and use your chosen house training method. By free time I mean time outside of their crate, or off leash, or out of their confinement area. Time free to roam, explore and live life. When 10 weeks old they may need to toilet every 30 minutes, so they only get 5 to 10 minutes free time. When 12 weeks old, they may need to toilet every hour so they can get 35 to 40 minutes free time. You allow this free time because you are of course working toward a time when they will always be free and trusted unsupervised. To get there they need the experience, to get used to being free in your home and begin seeing it as a place they need to keep clean. They also need social interaction and life experiences. But what are the signs a puppy is about to potty? Heading toward, barking at or scratching the door to the outside. The minute you see any of these signs you should take your puppy to their bathroom spot immediately. There may well be some false alarms, but better safe than sorry. Carefully watch them and you should soon notice what body language means a wee or a poop is imminent. There will be recognizable signs. We do this because the time is fast approaching when mistakes are most likely to be made. If using constant supervision: Carry on as you are. Then at their scheduled potty time, attach a leash and lead them to their bathroom spot. If using a crate for house training: Encourage your puppy into their crate and close the door, leaving them there until their scheduled potty time and then release them, instantly attaching a leash and leading them to their bathroom spot. If using umbilical cord training: Attach a leash and tether your puppy to you, ready to react if they make moves to eliminate. Take them to their bathroom spot at the scheduled time. If paper training: Take your puppy to their confinement area where their papered bathroom spot is and supervise them, ready to intervene if they make moves to potty away from the paper. Not good when you need to be there to encourage them for doing it in the right place. If they do, you can pick them up and carry them, or take them by the collar and gently lead them to their bathroom spot, then encourage them to finish where they should. But to me this seems foolish. Instead of a little pile or puddle, you then have a long line of wee or poop from where you caught them all the way to the bathroom spot that you then have to deep clean instead. Then think how they were able to make such a mistake and tweak your plans so it cannot happen again. But any corrections or punishment now will be futile. House Training For Full Time Workers This advice applies not just to full-time workers , but also if you must occasionally leave your puppy home alone for a few hours. Most importantly, follow all the advice in this guide so far for the times that you are home. Supervise them, correct any mistakes, set feeding and elimination schedules and everything else I have advised. First of all, if like me you use a crate, you simply cannot leave your puppy in the crate for many hours. This is very unfair on your puppy and it will destroy the crates power as a house training tool if they lose the instinct to keep it clean. Secondly, please do your best to enlist the help of a family member, friend, neighbor or hire a dog walker to periodically pop in to visit your puppy, take them to their bathroom spot, give them some social interaction and so on. But I also freely admit to using paper training myself occasionally, for the unavoidable times I have to leave my puppy home alone for a few hours. If you have to leave your puppy home alone for any reason, usually because you work, then paper training in your absence is the only thing you can do. You then have two options available to you: Buy and use an exercise pen, or confine your puppy to a single, puppy-proofed room. As they get used to pottying on paper, reduce the area covered one sheet at a time until just a small area remains covered. Once you know your puppy can hold their bladder for longer than they have to be left alone, remove the paper altogether. By 16 to 20 weeks, they should be able to last the 3 or 4 hours max they will be left alone and somebody comes to exercise them and allow a bathroom break. Between 8 and 12 weeks when weeing seems spontaneous , my puppy spends a fair bit of time in there and I paper train them to use puppy pads. Our kitchen and dining room was separated by an arch where a door used to be, with tiled flooring, making it ideal. I used a baby gate across the arch between the kitchen and dining room, and initially covered the dining area with paper, over time reducing it to just two sheets with the puppy pad holder on top. The dining area is completely empty, with no furniture, nothing in there. Skirting boards, the corners of furniture items, anything within reach is a potential target for teeth and claws. My girlfriend works from home, we crate trained and we had no problem finding house sitters in an evening if we needed one, so we all but had things covered. But this is something you need to be mindful of. Whatever the reason, there just WILL be times you cannot supervise your puppy. The essence of house training is to prevent mistakes and praise your puppy heavily when they potty in the right place. If you cannot watch your puppy, the chances of them making a mistake go through the roof. So even if you choose to use a constant supervision method exclusively, you will still need to confine your puppy sometimes to a paper covered area just in case. I mean literally none at all. One minute they are trotting along, the next they are leaking. No warning signs for you, not even any warning signs for them. I recommend setting up an exercise pen with the entire area papered, or do as I do and confine them to a room with the entire area papered. Use this time to paper train them, to get them used to weeing on paper and gradually reduce the area because you will use this method if you ever have to leave them home alone during the next 4 or 5 months. They will sniff, circle and so on as I mentioned before. At this point you can now move on to using your chosen house training method. Start encouraging them to potty in the right place from the minute you get them home. So the good news is, even at 8 weeks they will be able to last 4 or so hours and you will only need to wake once during the night. Also, make sure to take them to their bathroom spot right before you go to bed so they can empty themselves. Then set an alarm for 4 hours after their bed time when you must get up and take them to their bathroom spot. No excuses, you simply must do this. If you find your puppy has soiled in this time, you should set the alarm for half an hour earlier the next night 3. After a few days of not having a night-time accident, set your alarm for 15 minutes later and increase the time by 15 minutes for each successful night they do not have an accident. If you find they make a mistake one night before you wake, set the alarm back half an hour, make sure they stay dry a few days and then increase 15 minutes nightly again. And by using this schedule, you strike a good balance between a couple of inevitable accidents while stretching out the time at a good pace to lasting a full night. If they soil their crate more than once in any given week, you may have to progress slower add 15 minutes every 2 or 3 days , or perhaps sleep them in a papered exercise pen or their confinement room. Maintaining their instinct to keep the crate clean is of utmost importance. What To Do At The Bathroom Spot At Night When you take them out at night, say your chosen cue word, take them straight to their bathroom spot, praise them gently when they finish their business but do not reward them with anything else. The last thing you want is to teach your puppy that during the night is a time for play or food treats! This will come back to haunt you in a big way and result in noisy sleepless nights. You want your puppy to learn that night-time is for sleeping and for nothing else. Do nothing else. Some will be able to last the whole night without a potty break at 10 weeks rarely , and some may not be able to at 15 weeks also rarely. But certainly by 16 weeks old your puppy will be able to last a 7 hour night without needing to potty if you do not feed them for 3 hours or provide water for 2 hours before bed time and allow them to empty themselves right before you lay down for the night. No Progress? If you are feeding, exercising, training and playing with your puppy to a schedule, and when you look at your diary there seems to be no pattern to the times they need to potty, you should seek the advice of your vet. Common ailments such as gastroenteritis, urinary tract infection and health issues affecting internal organs and the genitalia can lead to a dog needing to potty much more frequently, often leading to eliminating in the house. Again, seek the advice of your family vet. You cannot successfully house train a puppy who is ill because their bodily functions will be too unpredictable. But 6 to 7 months is the ball park figure to aim for. A single mistake in the home can cause a major setback. A puppy may not make a mistake for 2 weeks, then you give them too much freedom, they make a mistake and all of a sudden they are regularly trying to potty in the home again. Also, some puppies just seem to forget everything for a few days now and then while growing up, even after being perfect for a couple of weeks. Just stick to your plan and they WILL eventually get it. Conclusion With house training, the fewer mistakes you allow your puppy to make and the more they are rewarded for doing the right thing, the quicker they will learn and the faster you will find success. Because of this, the more effort you put in and the more time you spend with your puppy at the beginning — supervising to correct mistakes and taking them to their bathroom spot many times each day — the better. But there are many other things you can do to help yourself and your puppy to find success. This guide has provided you with all the theory, strategies, tips and tricks you will ever need to successfully house train your puppy as quickly and efficiently as possible, with the fewest mistakes along the way. Please see the entire series linked to below:. Learn to spot the signs Never punish your Lab after an accident Use potty pads as a temporary indoor alternative Recognize excitement urination Be aware of submissive urination Allow more freedom as your puppy improves The ultimate aim of housebreaking your puppy is to prevent accidents. Control His Environment When potty training your puppy, the first thing to do is to control his environment. Use a long leash and attach your pup to your waist, even when inside the house. This allows you to look out for warning signs. Your pup will sleep in the crate, whereas the playpen provides extra space. Make sure to choose a pen with a door so that you can attach it to the crate, such as the Midwest Homes for Pets Folding Exercise Pen from Amazon. I also recommend the Midwest Homes for Pets icrate. Introduce the Crate Slowly introduce the crate when crate training your Lab over the first few days. When you let your pup out of his crate, immediately take him outside. When he is away from his own room, make sure you closely supervise him by keeping him attached to you on a long leash. Allow Frequent Potty Breaks Give your dog lots of opportunities to go outside. Create a Puppy Potty Schedule Dogs thrive off routines, including mealtimes, exercise, and potty training! You can set an alarm on your watch or phone to remind you to take your dog outside to his toilet area. Your pup will need to go first thing in the morning, after a meal or drinking, when he wakes from a nap, after playtimes, and before bedtime. Look for clues such as sniffing the floor or carpet, circling, restlessness, becoming overexcited, whining, or making towards the door. This includes whether you catch him in the act or if it happened a while ago. Moreso, the latter, as your dog will have no idea what he is being punished for! This is because dogs have a terrible short-term memory and will forget an event in two minutes. Instead, take him straight outside and reward him with a treat and lots of praise if he finishes off his business. Use Potty Pads as a Temporary Indoor Alternative Potty pads can be handy in extended periods of bad weather or if you live in a high-rise apartment and it takes longer to get outside. They can also be useful when traveling. This is when your Labrador gets so excited he will pee a small amount. It may happen when a family member or friend visits. To prevent this, allow your dog to eliminate before a visitor arrives and ensure visitors make their entrance low-key with no fuss, even ignoring the pup for a few minutes. Dogs will usually grow out of excitement pee by 18 months of age. Be Aware of Submissive Urination This is also common, but your puppy will outgrow it. It occurs when your Labrador wants to show submissive status to a person or another animal. He may squat and urinate during specific situations. To prevent it, avoid yelling and physical punishment, appear less intimidating when approaching, kneel down, and stroke under his chin instead of the top of his head. At first, keep his sleeping area small and then gradually increase the size slowly and methodically. Remove the divider in the crate or make the playpen area larger if you arent using a crate. You can use a crate to your advantage as it helps your pup develop quicker bowel and bladder control. To potty train a Lab puppy with a crate, use the crate as a tool. When the door is closed, your Lab will let you know he needs to eliminate by whining or scratching. He will learn self-control quicker. Crates are great when you cannot fully supervise your puppy and are an ideal way to control his environment. However, you still need to keep a close eye on him and spot the signs when he needs to go. Make it smaller using a divider. He will be less likely to eliminate in a smaller sleeping area. Check out my recommendations for the Best Dog Crates for Labradors and Playpens , including soft crates, travel crates, and furniture styles. Just be aware that it will probably take a little longer. Use dog gates to section off an area of the house. When away from his confinement, tether your pup to you with a long leash and establish a strict potty break schedule. If you choose dog gates, there are many styles you can choose to match your decor and configure how you like. This area should contain training pads or newspapers. Potty Training Puppies Between Months Old Most puppies are around eight weeks old when they leave their mother and littermates, but occasionally your pup may be a little older when you first bring him home. You may wonder how to potty train an older puppy and whether you should do anything different. Generally speaking, you should follow the same principles as training an 8-week-old Lab. However, a more mature puppy should be able to grasp housebreaking quicker. Labrador house training routines. We want them to learn to wait until they are outdoors before emptying their bladder or bowels. It is about maturity too. We need to understand that tiny puppies have immature bodies and are not physically capable of waiting very long. On your side There are two factors on your side in the potty training process. When it comes to bladder control, fortunately your puppy improves with every day that passes, so this factor does not work against you forever. The same applies to the fact that the puppy has been removed from his nest, he will soon learn to accept his new nest. The principles of puppy potty training The puppy is learning the principle of extending the nest area, which he keeps clean instinctively, to include your entire home. Punishment is counter-productive in this process as it teaches the puppy to avoid emptying himself in your presence. Rewards are helpful, but given the right routine, a puppy will naturally learn to be clean without them. The secret to successful house training lies in selecting targets that the puppy can achieve. If your puppy sometimes needs to wee every 15 minutes whilst he is awake and active, you will have to take him outside every 15 minutes. Restricted access Start small applies here too. Allow your puppy access only to a small part of your home. Increase the area he has access to, only when he is capable of keeping the current area clean. Just because he can. And because the sensation of a filling bladder is a new one. Your job is to teach him to wait a little longer. You do this by confining him for a short time, every time his bladder fills. You can confine him in his nest within a crate , or in your arms. He will be reluctant to wee in either location. If he wets himself, you have waited too long! It takes two You need to go outside with your puppy, and stay out there with him, each time he needs to wee. A tiny puppy is unlikely to empty himself on his own. This especially applies in cold or wet weather. Routines Matter When House Training a Labrador Retriever Based around these practical requirements you can create your own house training routine. For a puppy that needs to wee every half an hour, it will go something like this Take puppy outside to the toilet area and wait with him until he empties himself Bring him indoors and allow him free access to your kitchen for fifteen to twenty minutes Crate or cuddle the puppy until it is thirty minute since his last wee Take the puppy back out to the toilet area If at any time the puppy does not empty himself then confine him for another ten minutes and try again. As soon as he is regularly not needing to wee after thirty minutes you can extend the duration of free access to your kitchen. Provided you stick to these principles and strategies, the house training process, though quite intense for a short while, will pass smoothly. Supervise Your Puppy Your second job is to supervise or contain your puppy when his bladder is filling up. You can do this by crating him for a few minutes, or by cuddling him in your arms. I recommend the cuddle option for the first few days, that way you can introduce the crate gradually once he has settled into his new home. Either spend your first day together in the yard getting a feel for how frequently they pee. As you can see, there is some guesswork involved in house training a puppy, but not too much. The secrets of successful outdoor toilet trips Not wanting to pee outside is a common toilet training puppy problem and one we look at in more detail in this article. Keeping your puppy company is the key. You need to go outside with your puppy and wait there with him until he has done a wee. This may take longer than you would like, and you probably have better things to do than stand in your yard while your puppy chases butterflies or plays with your shoe laces. But stay outside you must, until he has done that wee. Coming Indoors Early If you must come indoors before your puppy has relieved himself, you need to supervise him very closely. Hold him in your arms — or put him in a small crate for a few minutes — before going back out to try again. It is a new puppy problem, and it will pass. And if you teach your puppy to pee on command, it will pass even quicker! Rewarding success If you put plenty of effort in, and take your puppy out a great deal in those first few days, he will quickly learn that the place you have allocated to him for potty purposes is the place to pee. You can praise him and give him a little treat for doing so. Have your treat on hand keep them next to your poop bags so you remember to grab both on the way out , and deliver it right after your puppy has completed their business. Rewarding his successes and ignoring his accidents is the quickest way of successfully communicating what you want, and quickly potty training your puppy. Stage 2 — Learning self control During stage 2 your puppy begins to develop some self control. This means he can wait a few minutes before emptying himself when his bladder starts to feel full. Keep an eye on your puppy for the tell tale signs that he needs to use the toilet: whimpering, whining or barking sniffing about, especially sniffing in circles! Using Your Crate If your puppy is now used to his crate, you can start using it stretch out the gaps between toilet trips. Accidents during stage 2 At some point during stage 2, many puppies will be able to last an hour or so between wees. This is when puppy parents often relax their vigilance, and their puppies start having accidents in the house again. Simply go back to shorter gaps between trips to the yard for a few days. Then start to space out those trips again, but more gradually this time. Stage 3 — Extending the clean zone This is where all your hard work starts to really pay off. Once your puppy is confidently and consistently toileting outdoors, and you can further stretch out the gaps between toilet breaks, and start to introduce your puppy to the rest of your home. Take it slowly, and if accidents occur, to go back to shorter gaps between trips outdoors for a few days. Bear in mind that your puppy may be used to peeing in the yard and not in the kitchen by now, but they might not automatically understand which rule applies to the lounge. Method 2: How to potty train a puppy indoors This section has a lot in common with how to potty train a puppy when you work. So follow method 2 if you need to know how to potty train a puppy in an apartment as well. And that means using pads. How to potty train a puppy on pads The simplest way to do this is to restrict the puppy to a smallish room with washable floors. Cover the floor with puppy pads to begin with, with their bed in one corner. How do you train a puppy to pee on a pad? With this arrangement in place, as long as your puppy leaves his bed to pee which his mom will have encouraged him to do , he will pee onto the pads. So over the next few days, reduce the area of the floor that is covered with puppy pads by half. You should find he begins to make an effort to pee and poop on the part of the floor that is covered — but it needs to be a sizeable part to get this good habit established. How to potty train a puppy fast using pads — reducing the toilet area By the end of the first week, you can begin to reduce the part of the floor that is covered with puppy pads right down to a small area, preferably near the back door. It is usually best to do this when you have some time booked off work — or during a long weekend when the weather is fine. But if you choose to crate train your puppy LINK alongside potty training him, the crate can be a useful aid for potty training too. Once your puppy thinks of the crate as their bed, they will be reluctant to soil in it. You Still Need To Watch Your Puppy Always watch puppies closely in their crate during potty training, and whisk them out to the right spot at the first sign they might need to relieve themselves. You can find out a lot more about crate training and the role it plays in rapid house training on this page. As well opportunities to use the toilet, Labrador puppies need company and socialisation while they are small. So, if you are going to go back to work you need to arrange someone to look after him, or to come in at intervals throughout the day to play with him and take him out. Here are some articles which will be of interest if you are thinking of getting a puppy and work full time:. Print Potty train your puppy quickly Housebreaking is one of the least desirable tasks when adding a new puppy to your family. It is never fun but consider it a necessary task. You will never regret having a dog that knows your home is not a bathroom. When to start housebreaking Housebreaking should begin the day you bring your puppy home from the breeder. It is important to establish quickly that there is a right and wrong place for your puppy to go potty. How long does it take to house train a lab puppy? I wish I could give a definitive answer for this, but the truth is that every puppy is different. Most puppies can be completely house broke by the time they are months. But assume there will be a lot of ups and downs through the process. Some puppies learn very quickly and rarely have an accident. Others take more time to make the connection. Here are some things you can do to help the process go smoothly. Have the right attitude! Keep your attitude in check to help this process go quickly and smoothly. Have patience! As already stated, potty training can take some time. It may happen, but it is unlikely. Instead, plan for a long haul and then you will be more patient and understanding when mishaps happen. The products I recommend I believe are a good value or good investment for anyone working to train or maintain training on their retriever. When possible, I include links to the product. Some of these links may be Amazon or other affiliate links in which I am paid a small commission at no cost to you. All opinions and recommendations are my own. Step 1: Establish a place for your puppy to go potty To get started housebreaking your puppy, you must first establish a place where it is okay for your puppy to do his business. Find a place outside that is not too far from your home, but an area where you are not worried about killing the grass or trampling plants that are important to you. Consider this carefully, because once your puppy starts going potty in this area it will be exceedingly difficult to move or change the area. Once the scent is there, it is natural for dogs to continue going potty in the same area over and over. Do I have to potty train outside? In some areas of the country, winters can be very cold. Some new puppy owners wonder if it is too cold for their Labrador puppy to go outside to potty train during these times. The answer is no. Most Labs can easily be outside for a few minutes even during the coldest nights to go potty. A pee pad is a disposable, leak proof pad that is scented to attract your dog and encourage going potty on them. We highly discourage using pee pads because in the long run it is confusing to your dog. If you spend time teaching your puppy to NOT go potty inside your home and then flip-flop and begin letting them go inside your home on a pee pad, your dog will be confused. Besides, eventually you must retrain them to going outside, so the best policy is to never start letting inside be an option. Step 2: Establish a routine and schedule for your puppy Establishing a routine is the single most important step for housebreaking. The more consistent you are, the faster your puppy will learn to go outside for potty. This time will increase rapidly over the next few weeks, but that first week is going to take a lot of time and energy on your part to consistently let your puppy out on a schedule. To make being consistent easier, consider this: Set a timer When housebreaking puppies, we find that setting a timer is helpful. An hour flies by and you hardly realize it. For the first few days at least, set a timer and let your puppy out hourly, especially if your puppy is not in a crate. We will discuss that more in a bit. Timing is everything There are other times when you need to let your puppy outside. Immediately after eating or drinking your puppy should go outside. Eating and drinking will trigger a need to go potty, so to avoid accidents, take your puppy out every time they eat or drink. And if they drink a lot of water, you may have to take them out several times before they are back on schedule. Anything you can do to make going potty a routine will help your dog learn and associate that going outside is where I need to go to go potty. Use a command I know this sounds crazy but using a command can help your dog form an association between the command and going potty. At first this is meaningless to the puppy. And you cannot discipline your puppy for a potty accident in the house that you never saw happen. The solution for this is never let your puppy go unsupervised. This can be exhausting, that is why we suggest using a crate to help. The stern words must be said during the accident or immediately after to have any effect. Using a crate to house train your puppy First, while your puppy may not love his crate right away, if properly introduced and used consistently, Labs usually come to love their crates. As den animals, dogs will view their crate as a den where they can go to sleep or get away from the business of the home. Learn more about crate training your Labrador puppy here. When using a crate to housetrain your puppy, you first want to make sure that you have a very small crate. One that is just a little bigger than your puppy. This is particularly important because you do not want your puppy to be able to move around much in the crate. If they can move around, they can and often will go potty in the crate. So, start with a very small crate and get bigger crates as the puppy grows. Whatever you choose to use to block off the larger area, make sure that it is not something your puppy can chew on or ingest. You will still need to find a way to gradually increase the area that the puppy has access to, so I just find the multiple crate solution easier. You should still set a timer and take your puppy out on a regular basis, and you will want to schedule some time each day for the puppy to run around the house and play while supervised. Step 4: Using praise to speed the house breaking process You can help your puppy more quickly understand that going potty outside is the right thing to do by giving your puppy well-timed praise. But the praise must be well-timed. You should give the praise while your puppy is going potty outside or immediately after. Timing is very important! Lots of people get upset when the dog goes inside but fail to praise when the dog does the right thing. Not all dogs are the same. Some puppies will whine just before they go potty in the house, or whine at the door when they need to go. Some will hide somewhere you cannot see them and do their business there. Still others may scratch at the door. How long can a puppy hold it overnight? With young puppies, weeks old, you will need to get up several times a night to let them out. It can be helpful to limit the amount of water your puppy has access to close to bedtime. We usually aim for every 3 hours and then steadily increase the time as they get older. But each puppy is different. Final thoughts on how to house train your Labrador puppy Remember that housebreaking is a process. It rarely follows a straight line and more often there will periods of success and occasional mishaps. Stick with it and before long your puppy will understand that going potty in the house is not okay. Until next time, happy retrieving. How to housebreak your Labrador puppy.

It serves important functions like communication, balance, and coordination. It comprises vertebrae, with larger bones at the base and smaller ones near the end. These individual segments are separated by soft discs — similar to those found in spinal columns — providing flexibility for movement. This natural curl helps them maneuver effortlessly through water or tight spaces during adventurous pursuits. Labrador puppy tails are built with strength and adaptability. It allows them to communicate emotions efficiently or swiftly navigate through tricky situations. Labrador Tail Types Labrador tails cannot be explicitly divided into different types. However, the tails may appear different from one dog to another. The reason for what they were bred can make a difference. Show dogs are bred to match the distinct breed standard. Dogs not bred for appearance can have a distinct look. A working lab can have a thinner, longer, shorter, or curly tail. Every other dog of this breed may not have the same thick tapering tail. Two dogs can have tails with slight variation. A black lab tail, a yellow lab tail, or a chocolate lab tail can be slightly different. It serves as a way for dogs to express themselves, whether happy, scared, or nervous. If a Labrador Retriever wags its tail rapidly from side to side with excitement when greeting you, it indicates happiness. If their tail is tucked between their legs while cowering away from something or someone, it shows that they are fearful or anxious. These dogs were originally bred for fishing and hunting. Their powerful tails were essential for diving into icy waters and retrieving fish from boats. Their tails were also selectively bred for balance, coordination, agility, and communication. The thick base provided strength while swimming or moving about in the water or on rough terrain. The thin tail tapering toward the tip enables nimble movements on land or water. When your Labrador wags its tail vigorously while jumping around, it reflects excitement. A slow tail wagging signifies uncertainty or confusion, while a tucked tail between the hind legs shows submission or anxiety. Dogs communicate with their entire body language, not just their tails alone. They use subtle cues such as ear movements, eye contact, posture, vocalizations, and tails to express feelings. Balance, Coordination, And Agility The thick base of their tail is a counterbalance when running or jumping. It allows them to make sharp turns and sudden stops easily. When swimming, the tapering shape of the tail helps generate thrust in the water. Ensuring your Labrador gets plenty of exercise and playtime keeps their tails happy and maintains good muscle tone. Swimming And Water Activities Labrador Retrievers love water, and their thick tail is a powerful rudder. The breed was originally developed to retrieve from water bodies, making it an integral part of their DNA. It provides balance while standing or moving on slippery surfaces like rocks or boats. This painful condition causes the tail to become limp and flaccid. It can occur suddenly, usually after intense physical activity like swimming or overexertion. Most cases of Limber Tail Syndrome resolve themselves within a few days. Supportive care like rest, heat therapy on the tail base using a warm washcloth , and anti-inflammatory medication help. Limber Tail Syndrome is not life-threatening but can be very uncomfortable for your dog. A wagging tail may look harmless, but it can be quite powerful and easily hit hard objects, causing injury. Fractures and dislocations are more common in dogs with short or thin tails. Treatment includes rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and sometimes physical therapy. Mast cell tumors, including Labradors, are the most common type of tumor found in dogs. These tumors originate from white blood cells and can manifest differently depending on their location. If located near the base of the tail or spine, it may cause pain or discomfort. Regular visits to the veterinarian detect any potential health issues early on so they can be treated promptly. Provide exercise for proper circulation, and ensure adequate nutrition with supplements like fish oil or glucosamine. Keep the fur around the base of their tail trimmed to avoid matting or tangling. Use a dog-friendly shampoo to wash their tail when needed. Trim any long hairs on their tail using sharp scissors or clippers, careful not to cut too close to the skin. Check for any signs of injury, such as cuts or bruises, and seek veterinary care if necessary. Swimming, running, and playing fetch are all excellent ways to keep your dog active while promoting a healthy tail. Give your furry friend plenty of opportunities to swim in open water or a pool. Water activities help strengthen their powerful tails as they paddle through the water. Running on soft surfaces like grass, sand, or dirt keeps their joints healthy and reduces the risk of joint problems. It can affect their tails over time. A balanced and nutritious diet includes high-quality protein, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids. Fatty acids maintain healthy skin and dense coats, promoting healthy tails. Hydration is crucial for a happy tip-tapping tail! Provide clean water at all times so they remain hydrated throughout the day. The ideal Labrador tail should be thick at the base and gradually taper toward the tip, with no signs of kinks or knots. According to AKC breed standards, a wagging tail can indicate friendliness. But excessive wagging or stiffness can denote fear or aggression. Docking or altering their tails can cause unnecessary pain and discomfort, leading to long-term health issues. With proper care comes better communication through body language signals. Labrador tail is medium and not longer than the hock per breed standard. However, some tails can be different from the standard. However, a labrador tail does not curl up over its head. Yes, golden retrievers can have curled tails. This is not a breed standard, but it is not uncommon either. Some golden retrievers may have a slight curl in their tail, while others may have a more pronounced curl that goes all over their back. What is the otter tail on a Labrador? The otter tail in a labrador is a thick rounded appearance. The thick look comes from the thicker coat. The tail has a small c-shape, is pointed downward, and is fairly straight. What does a Labradors tail look like? Labradors usually have a thick tail base that tapers toward the tip. It is free from feathering and is medium in length. It is thick with a short and dense coat surrounding it and gives an otter-like appearance. What does a lab tail mean? A stiff lab tail held high reflects confidence and dominance. It means your labrador will not back down. A low tail tucked between the legs indicates fear. Labs have thick and sturdy bodies with broad heads and long otter-like tails. The tail helps them steer in the water and reflects their emotions. Labrador retrievers have about 15, hairs per square inch of skin. This means that a full-grown Labrador retriever with an average surface area of 20 square feet would have about million hairs on its body Why does my Lab puppy have a curly tail? A lab can have a curly tail due to genetic variations. It can also occur when a lab is bred with another dog breed with curly tails. The happy tail syndrome can also cause a curly tail. Genetic traits determine the specific tail shape of a dog and can vary from straight to curved or curled. This variation results from natural selection, historical environmental factors, and selective breeding practices. Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness. Labrador tail injuries Lab tails are thick and tapering, covered in the same dense hair as the rest of their bodies. Labrador tails are also practical, helping them to steer quickly through water in their original retrieving role! Some Labs may have shorter or thinner tails than average, which is considered a fault in show dogs. Happy Labrador puppies wag their tiny tails! The traditional Labrador Retriever tail is thick and gradually tapers towards the tip. Unlike some other retriever breeds, such as the Golden Retriever, Labradors have little to no feathering on their tails. Instead, their entire tail is covered in dense fur, like the rest of their body. However, some Labrador tails fall outside of this standard, being shorter, longer, or thinner than average. Instead, it follows their topline the line from their neck to tail. Giving them the overall balanced appearance that we know of this breed! Labradors can use their tails to help with swimming, as a powerful rudder. Labs communicate through their tail — like other dogs. Some Labrador tails curve upwards although not over their back , and others may be dead straight. Labrador Tail Types There are no real different Labrador tail types. But, Labrador tails may look slightly different from one dog to the next, depending on what they were bred for. For instance, Labs bred for show are bred to fit the strict breed standard. Dogs who are not specifically bred for appearance can differ a little more. So, you may find working Labs with thinner tails, shorter or longer tails than average, and even tails that curve upwards a little more than you expect. Of course, many theorize that the otter tail shape also helps Labs with their working ability. Some may have a thinner tail, or one that does not taper so gradually. Lab Tail Colors These variations can happen in Labs of any color. Labrador Tail Injuries It is possible for your Labrador to injure their tail. The most common problem that affects Labrador tails is limber tail. Other than limber tail, this condition is also called water tail, swimmer tail, limp tail, and more. If your Lab has limber tail, their tail will hang lifelessly, or may jut out a little before hanging limp. But, fortunately, there are ways to help a Lab suffering from limber tail. Potential risk factors for limber tail include swimming, high latitudes, and even genetic predisposition. If your Lab seems to be suffering with limber tail, you should take them to your veterinarian straight away. In the first 24 hours, anti-inflammatories can be given to shorten the length of the flare up. And, your vet will be able to give your Lab dog-safe pain relief, if nothing else. This could take anywhere from a few days to over a week. Do you have a Labrador with the popular, classic otter tail? Has your hard-working retriever ever suffered from limber tail? Find Out More.

Moderate Grooming Moderate Grooming Although enthusiasts would advise any interested dog owners to ask which line their Lab mix puppies come from, it's still important to note that there is only one Labrador breed. Whichever your Lab mix is from, I'm sure it'd still be the best boy or girl you can ever care for. Labrador Mixes Size Because Labradors are considered medium to large dogs, so they definitely affect their hybrid size. For example, small breeds mixed with Labradors may stand and weigh more than the other purebred parent. Mixed with larger breeds, then they may stand and weigh less than the larger parent. It all boils down to your preference and lifestyle as the owner. Labrador Mixes Life Span Numerous studies have found that mixed-breed dogs may live just a little bit longer than purebreds. The same goes with Labrador mixes as they are expected to live for 12 to 14 years, slightly longer than a purebred Labrador of 10 to 12 years. But as long as they are happy and healthy, Lab mixes can surely accompany you for a much longer time than that! Labrador Mixes Health Generally, Labradors are quite a healthy breed. The same goes with Lab mixes, although they can still be prone to diseases inherent to their parents' breed even though they are expected to be genetically better. Some health concerns that Lab mix owners need to watch out for are different eye diseases, Elbow and Hip Dysplasia , Arthritis, Obesity, etc. Labrador Mixes Temperament Knowing the temperament of a purebred pup is easy, but not for mixed breeds. As they are born from two different breeds with different personalities and temperaments, your guess is only as good as mine on how a Labrador hybrid will turn out. If possible, meet both parents to know what personality your dog may pick up. Or you can also observe their behavior and temperament in the kennel, especially if they are at least 6 months of age or older. Labrador Mixes Energy Level Because Labradors are energetic, their mixes can also be quite energetic too, especially if combined with an equally active breed. As a rule of thumb, a Labrador mix needs at least 1 hour of physical activity a day or else, they'd redirect their energy to chewing off things, and you don't want that! And depending on how active they are, they can do zoomies way longer than that! Apart from running or playing fetch, Labradors are also known swimmers—maybe that's something your Lab mix would also want to try! The over-the-top cuteness of a Labradoodle won the hearts of millions of dog owners worldwide with their cute smile, teeny ears for a big body, and fluffy fur. They are low-shedders and a perfect family dog, especially for children! Unlike the Labradoodle, Goldador can be heavy shedders. Their double coats need brushing every other day. Also, they require plenty of physical exercise so having a spacious house or yard is better to accommodate a Goldador's energy. Although they have short coats, they can still shed quite often, so regular brushing and grooming are also necessary. This hybrid is very much protective, loyal , and affectionate to its family members. Apart from being playful, they mostly retain their Border Collie parent's herding instinct, so there may be some nipping-at-the-heel action going, especially if they're not trained. There's no other way to describe a Labrbull's appearance but that. Since Pitbulls have such a bad rep just a misunderstanding, if you ask me! They may look fierce, but Labrabulls are sweet and easy to care for! Great Danes are gentle giants, and so do Labradanes. They are great for families with kids and don't need as much exercise as other Labrador mixes. First-time owners would surely do well in caring for a Labradane. It's quite difficult to guess the temperament of an Aussiedor because its parents' personalities are polar opposites. While Labradors tend to be friendly and outgoing, Australian Shepherds are more of I-don't-need-friends-I'm-shy-but-I-got-you types of dogs. Aussiedors can also inherit their other parent's herding instinct, which may be a problem for your small kids if you have one! Beagadors can go along with other pets. However, training may be quite difficult, especially if they mostly take after their Beagle parent. But because both its parents are intelligent, Labraheelers can do well in agility and obedience training. Houses with yards are preferred, but apartment living is fine too, just as long as they get their daily hour walk. There's no mistaking the parentage of this mixed-breed dog with its startling blue eyes and regal demeanor. Huskadors are intelligent and intuitive. They can easily pick up new commands and tricks as they are being taught. However, they got the extra shedding coat of their Husky parent, so extra brushing is also needed. Plus, they can also be the clingy type, so don't leave them too long on their own. Labmaraners do well in outdoor activities, which means couch potato owners may have to exert more effort in keeping them happy. They can also weigh up to 90 lbs, so beware of small kids and little pets! Labmaraners are generally friendly, but they may get too friendly without giving a mind to how big they actually are! One thing's sure, though—they are working dogs through and through, so lots of physical activities are necessary. You can also expect a year-round moderate shedding thanks to their thick, double coats of fur. Dachsadors are quite lively and motivated, and thanks to their size, they'd be contented playing zoomies even in an apartment setting. They'd also happily cuddle with you on the couch as they don't require much physical activity, unlike the others. Spanadors can weigh up to 50 lbs and can do well in different canine agility sports. But if you only want to relax on the couch, they can be the perfect companion for that too! Apart from being sociable, Dalmadors are great guard dogs thanks to the protective genes of a Dalmatian. However, because they're intelligent, you may need to try different approaches in training them, or else they'll get easily bored! Because of this, their energies if not used wisely may mostly be spent chasing after smaller animals. On the other hand, Springadors will do their best to please their owners, so you'll definitely get an attentive and faithful companion out of them. Mixed with an equally active Labrador, we get a tiny furball of pure energy from Labrahuahuas. But don't worry, whatever aggressive behavior their Chihuahua parents typically have wasn't picked up by the Labrahuahua. They love being the center of everybody's attention and would happily entertain everyone they know well. Just be mindful of those skin folds—they need constant cleaning, too to prevent any complications from developing! Chabradors are extremely loyal dogs that tend to bond well with one human. They don't need much exercise, but they do need a lot of grooming and brushing because of those thick, double coats that shed quite often. And depending on how large the Labrador parent is, they can actually weigh up to a whopping lbs! Another thing they commonly inherit from the other parent is a gentle and mellow personality. However, expect to clean your house more frequently because Labernards can also be quite the shedder! A full-grown Doberdor can weigh up to lbs and will definitely need a lot of active time to be fit and healthy. They are also quite a friendly mixed breed when socialized properly, and their alertness makes them excellent watchdogs too. Well, just imagine a Pug's face in a Lab's body! This mix can grow up to 50 lbs and can be quite the shedder too. Pugadors are also good as playmates and companions for kids! No wonder Labrakitas got this personality, too, although on a calmer level because of the Labrador genes. There are excellent watchdogs and companion dogs, too, when trained if you manage to get over their natural stubbornness. Labrakitas are well-suited for families with no children. They can be your hunting companion, your family companion, or simply just your companion on the couch. They can even adapt to apartment living just give them an hour a day of outdoor exercise, and they'll be good! Vizsladors can be quite independent, too, though, so patience is key in training them! They're not much of a shedder, but they sure are slobberers! Otherwise, they can be quite destructive and nobody wants that! Rottadors shed moderately, can stand up to 27 inches tall at the shoulder, and can weigh up to lbs. Because if the Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog in the country, the French Bulldog comes second for , at least. They're also one of the friendliest breeds you'll meet in the bunch! They can be playful, too but not expend as much energy as a purebred Labrador. If you're not on an adventure, though, try to keep them busy still. Otherwise, they'll look for something to get busy with themselves, and you may not like it! Combining them with a Labrador, an equally athletic breed, brings about a mixed breed that naturally needs lots of active time. Greyadors also need structured training and physical activities. Be wary because, at times, they can get pretty stubborn too! Their sizes also make them a little clumsy, so apartment living is definitely not the best idea for a Labrador Corso. Depending on which parent they take the most after, their ears can either be floppy or erect. Weekly brushing is often necessary for their thick and dense coats, and just like their Labrador parent, they don't mind taking a few splashes in the pool every once in a while! They range from medium to large size with short, straight, dense fur that can be red, black, brown, or sable in color. And just like their parent Basenji, Labrasenjis don't bark—they yodel! If you haven't heard how Basenjis yodel, check out this video! Their sizes range from medium to large dogs, and they don't require much grooming. Rhodesian Labs are also energetic , but one thing about them is they tend to eat more than what they really require, so you may want to be strict about that portion control! They also love to swim. Good thing they have water and weather-resistant coats! But running around may be the easiest activity to keep them fit, so urban or rural living is your best bet to keep your German Wirehaired Lab happy. They do well in a hot or cold climate, thanks to their thick coat. The catch is they do shed a lot, so frequent brushing is required. Bassadors love the attention , though, especially from their favorite human, so they don't mind getting brushed on a regular basis. This means they are not just casual pets—they require tasks and work to be done. They also do well in sporting activities, so make sure to engage them in one to maximize their fullest potential. The American Bullador is a stocky mix breed of yet another two purebreds loved by the American population. Like any other Lab mix, they require at least a weekly brushing as their short but dense hair can still be prone to matting. Their nails are also hard and tend to grow fast, so trimming them every 2 to 3 weeks might be necessary. American Bulladors also tend to be stubborn; you gotta have a lot of patience and positive reinforcements on hand to train them. Corgidors look just like a Labrador but with shorter legs which make them the cutest! Because of their size, they don't mind small living spaces, but they still do require regular exercise every day. They're also very patient with children and are quite the people-pleaser too! Just look at how fluffy those furs are! The Labernese is very much affectionate with their family, so much so that they can get anxious when left alone on their own. Joggers in the family can enjoy the company of a Labernese for their everyday run since this large mix breed also needs its daily exercise. Cavadors are naturally intelligent and affectionate, thanks to the similar personalities of both parents. Plus, they also do extremely well with kids! Just watch out for what and how much they eat because they are also prone to gaining too much weight! Plus, their high activity requirements can keep them warm even during the chilly season! Alaskan Maladors are intelligent and easy to train, yet they may not be the best option for first-time dog owners. They also have a high prey drive and tend to bark or howl a lot. They sure need strenuous activities to keep them entertained, and they can also excel in agility competitions if trained. Physically active owners will find the best companion ever with Chesadors. But surprisingly, they are not quite as active as their dog parents. They still need to be kept entertained. Otherwise, they'll probably dig holes around the yard. Lab'Aires are the offspring of two heavy-built, medium-sized dogs, so the same can be expected of their size and stance. They are seasonal shedders, so moderate grooming is only needed for this mixed breed. They can be average barkers, only to alert you when there's a stranger or danger in place. However, they also tend to shed a lot, and they can be notoriously chewers, too, especially when bored. The thing is, New Labralounds are high maintenance, grooming-wise. They will need five to six times brushing per week, and a pin brush and de-shedder will be your best friends in doing this. They are also easy to care for and are low-maintenance, but socializing them at a young age is important. Because of their size, they surely need a large space to wander about. They can weigh up to 80 lbs so a large living space is ideal, especially since they love running and playing around. Labrasetters also love the company of children, other pets, and their family! Because both parent breeds are intelligent, Kelpadors are also clever and eager to please. However, depending on who they take on after the most, they can be either friendly or reserved. Nonetheless, if you ever come across this unique mix, don't pass on the chance! They are also perfect for new dog owners, so there is nothing to worry about. So it's no surprise that some breeders thought of mixing these two together. And what a winning combination Labratzus are! Combine a Shih Tzu's spunky attitude and a Lab's easy-going personality, and you'll get the perfect companion dog for your family, especially kids! Another perfect companion dog for families who love to snuggle. Just don't expect them to be watchdogs, though. They are too friendly that all they might do only is befriend strangers! They are also energetic and quite affectionate with their families. Appearance-wise, they can stand up to 27 inches tall and weigh 75 lbs when fully grown. And while they do well in families with kids, it's best if the kids are a bit older and know how to interact with a dog properly. Some of the adjectives to describe them are brave, strong-willed, and devoted. They are also intelligent with excellent judgment, that's why they also make the best family guard dogs. Because of this, Schnauzadors can also come in varying sizes depending on their dog's parent. Although they are friendly, Schnauzadors can also get too bossy at times. They'd always try to show other dogs especially same-sex who's the boss! However, they still make for great family dogs, especially for children and older people. Never mind the sit, stay, roll over command. They just gotta watch that stranger passing by the window! It's hard to guess what temperament their mix will turn out; it depends on which parent they will take after the most. One thing's sure, though, they are loyal through and through and will love their humans for as long as they can. These Labrador mixes, however, need an experienced dog owner who can confidently show them who's the alpha. Otherwise, they'd decide for it themselves, and you may have a hard-time training and disciplining them! They're family-oriented dogs who love playtime! However, early socialization is still important, even how friendly this breed is, so make sure to introduce them to new people and animals. It's not advisable to leave them on their own as they can get too anxious alone. They are generally healthy Labrador mixes too, but also with the potential for weight gain, so watch out for what and how much they eat! Although they are a fairly active breed, they can do well in smaller living spaces and only require 30 to 45 minutes of daily exercise. Personality-wise, they tend to take after their Plott Hound parents, so they may be a little reserved around strangers compared to their Labrador parents. German Shorthaired Labs only require moderate grooming, and they are actually quiet and just observant most of the time. Don't get intimidated by their size and appearance; they'd still be a perfect fit for first-time owners—just as long as that owner loves physical activities as much as this mixed breed. Depending on the other purebred they are combined with, a Labrador mix can be slightly larger or smaller than Labs themselves. However, on average, a Lab Mix can grow from 20 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 45 to 90 lbs. How can I tell if my dog is a Lab Mix? The best way to know whether your dog is a Labrador mix or not is thru DNA tests. There are available DNA test kits that you can purchase online that will not only determine your dog's ancestry but also their traits and possible health complications so I'd say it's worth giving a try! Do Lab Mix dogs shed? Labradors are heavy-shedders, so yes, Labrador mixes can be shedders too. However, some breeds like Poodles can somehow tone the shedding down when mixed with Labradors. Labradoodles, for example, are said to be non-shedders and a perfect match for dog owners with allergies. After reading all the information you need about this popular mixed breed, like the Labrador mix's life span, size, temperament, and health, I hope this article helps you decide which Lab mix is the best fit for you and your family's lifestyle. Related Articles:. Jul 13, Share Labradors have been the most popular dog breed in the United States for quite some time. Their mild demeanor and affectionate temperament have endeared them to many. Originally bred for hunting as a waterdog, the Labrador is as intelligent and energetic as it is loving. They make excellent working dogs, companions, and family pets. But there are plenty of lovable dog breeds out there. What happens when you mix the iconic Labrador with one of these other excellent breeds? The 43 Labrador Mix Breeds 1. Boxador Boxer and Labrador mix Image By: Luke Sadler, Shutterstock Boxers are known for their bouncy, spunky, highly-energetic nature, which definitely tends to show through with the Boxador. Labs can also be a high-energy breed at times, so when mixed with a Boxer, expect your Boxador puppy to be rambunctious, ready to go, and a complete goof! The Boxador can be a pretty large dog, often reaching weights of 80 pounds while standing about 18 inches tall. All that size can make a Boxador quite the bull in a china shop when their excitement grows! But it also makes them adorable, and their loving temperament endears them to every member of the family. Like the Labrador, the Golden Retriever was bred as a hunting dog, so they both have plenty of intelligence and the desire to please their owners. Likewise, they make excellent family dogs. Golden Labradors have a friendly disposition similar to both parent breeds. After all, the Boston Terrier is just a fraction of the size of a Labrador Retriever! But surprisingly, the Boston Lab is a great pup with a friendly and loving personality that makes it perfectly suited for families. These dogs love to please their owners and will go out of their way to do so. They are also highly intelligent and much calmer than most pure Labs thanks to the more easy-going demeanor of the Boston Terrier. But look out, because the Boston Lab does sometimes show their stubborn side! When combined to make a Labsky, also called a Huskador , you can usually expect the offspring to display a similar personality. Huskies can also be a bit stubborn at times, but Labs are known for their obedience and intelligence, which can temper the stubbornness in the Labsky. Labskies can be about 24 inches tall and weigh around 80 pounds. They often inherit the long, thick coat of the Siberian Husky. This means year-round shedding and lots of maintenance. When mixed with a Lab, the resulting offspring is just as high energy and can still have plenty of herding instinct left over. Both parent breeds of the Labraheeler are highly intelligent working dog breeds. Because of this, the Labraheeler is great at training and can easily learn to perform tasks or follow obedience commands. This is a rare breed, but despite their rarity, they make excellent pets because of their loving demeanor and undying loyalty to their family. This breed sheds non-stop, so expect lots of loose hair and plenty of grooming time. But thanks to their high levels of intelligence, they can be trained well and will easily learn obedience commands. But the result is surprisingly cute; a small to mid-sized dog that looks like a small lab with short legs and big, floppy ears. What they do have are some known medical concerns. They also have interesting body proportions that can actually result in mobility issues because of how short their legs are compared to their body length. Once mixed, any of these issues might show up in the offspring. The Dachsador is starting to gain popularity. They were originally bred to reduce the health issues that both Labs and Dachshunds commonly display. Labradors are more playful and upbeat and quite a bit larger. The French Labrador is about as friendly of a dog as you could meet. This is especially true because of how closely they bond with their owners who they desperately want to please. It was originally bred to maintain the best traits of the Lab while reducing the numerous health concerns that plagued the breed. The Corgidor that results when you mix these two breeds will have the stubby legs that distinguish the Corgi, but with the face and colors of the Labrador. Hailing from two well-respected working dog breeds, your Alaskan Malador will need a job to keep it happy. They often have the colorations and markings of a Rottweiler and can grow to the same size, up to 27 inches tall. This mix makes for a very large dog that can be somewhat unpredictable in temperament. Make sure to properly train and socialize your Labrottie. But Rottweilers have shorter life expectancies than Labs, so your Labrottie might not live as long as a purebred Labrador Retriever. Labs are much more active and energetic, though. When bred together, the resulting Labernard could go either way. Because both parent breeds were bred as working dogs, Boradors have the innate intelligence necessary for training. They can learn easily, but they can also have very high levels of energy from the Border Collie side of the family, so a firm hand and plenty of patience are necessary to train a Borador. Because the Border Collie has much longer hair than a Labrador, the Borador is going to require some extensive grooming. They also have a natural herding instinct that tends to display itself around small children, so this breed is best for individuals or families with older kids. Great Danes are known to be very gentle, calm, and affectionate. They make great family pets and even do great as service dogs. Despite their large stature, Labradanes only need a moderate amount of exercise. German Shepradors make excellent guard dogs. Labollie Collie and Labrador mix A post shared by Maple mapleypup Collies are loyal and friendly dogs that were bred for sheepherding. Labradors are friendly and loyal dogs that were bred for hunting. Combine them, and you get the Labollie; a hard-working dog with above-average intelligence and an utterly friendly disposition. They have plenty of energy, but they also know when to be calm. They have lots of energy and need tons of exercise. But when you mix them with Labs, the resulting offspring can look very similar to a Dalmatian, or just barely show their Dalmatian lineage. The signature spots that the Dalmatian is known for might cover the entire coat of the Dalmador. But the Labrahuahua actually seems to work quite well! They can vary in size drastically and take their visual cues from either side of the family. But they can also be playful and happy dogs from the Labrador side. But this makes them a danger to children, especially considering their high prey drive. This breed is highly intelligent but can still be difficult to train because of their stubbornness. Once trained, they can make excellent companions, but socialization will be very important with Labrakitas. But Beagles are much smaller with fewer space demands. It gets its massive size from the Bull Mastiff side of the family and can sometimes be as heavy as pounds. You might expect such a massive dog to need loads of exercise, but the Bullmasador is a bit of a paradox since it really just needs one walk each day. This is a very loyal breed that makes an excellent companion. They are very intelligent, which makes them easy to train. Both of these breeds were originally used as hunting dogs, so the Spanador offspring they create are good-natured and very intelligent. They are excellent with children and make great family pets due to their calm, gentle personalities. Still, the Labrasenji is a dog that will need a lot of exercise each day and just as much patience to properly train them. Cavador Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Labrador mix A post shared by Paul Martin Jones jaypjay44 Cavadors are incredibly friendly dogs, which makes sense since both parents are known for their friendly disposition. These dogs are often described as charismatic. Look out for problems like mitral valve disease and syringomyelia. They have a short lifespan of around eight years, which is common with such large breeds. When mixed with a Labrador, the lifespan will likely even out between the breeds, so you can hope for a ten-year lifespan in a Labernese. Labs tend to be friendly and trusting, but the Bernese Mountain Dog is the opposite. Socialization is extremely important with the Bernese Mountain Dog, and it will be just as important with the Labernese. They can make great companions, but make sure to socialize early on to avoid the distrusting behavior that can develop in the Bernese Mountain Dog. They have lots of affection to give and want to receive the same from their person. Labradoodles often inherit the curly mop of hair from their Poodle parent. Expect to spend plenty of time grooming to keep all that hair in good condition! Labrabull or Pitador Pitbull Terrier and Labrador mix Image Credit: Stephanie Denise Powers, shutterstock Pitbulls are muscular, stocky dogs with large heads and powerful bodies that are low to the ground. Labrabulls are easy to care for and require little maintenance. What they do need is socialization. Labmaraner Weimaraner and Labrador mix. As affectionate and intelligent pets, Labs are the perfect fit for families who can give their pups lots of love and activity. And when you combine these traits with other personalities from popular breeds such as German shepherds, corgis , and huskies, the mixes are sure to melt hearts. A Bit On Labrador Retriever Mixed Breed Health and Genetics Before adopting a new puppy, it's important to understand the health and genetics of the breed in order to provide all the loving care you can. When dog breeds mix, traits from both parents present themselves in the breed, creating both adorable physical characteristics and loving personalities as well as various health risks. Theresa Entriken , DVM, says health risks aren't meant to discourage pet parents from choosing mixes, but it's important to stay alert for as your pet ages. Early signs typically include noisy panting , a raspy bark and tiring easily with exercise, but later signs can include vomiting and muscle weakness. Before adopting, make sure to research breeders carefully and avoid breeders who aren't putting the puppies' health and safety first. And be sure to consult a veterinarian to learn about the health risks of both parent breeds. Now, on to these fun-loving mixed dog breeds! Along with being adorable and easy to train, their curly poodle coat offers minimal shedding for us allergy-suffering dog lovers. Whether you're looking for a companion to explore the outdoors or a puppy to train, this mix is sure to deliver the fun. These intelligent dogs are full of energy and affection, making them the ideal companion for any active owner. The caring and active personalities from a Lab and golden retriever makes this crossbreed a perfect fit for anyone looking for a loving, active dog. Beagles are natural scent hounds and Labs love to have fun outdoors, so this gentle mix will want long walks to sniff every corner they can. Mixed Breeds By K9 of Mine Staff 19 min read July 14, 23 Comments K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Labrador retrievers are well known for their even-tempered personalities, loyalty, fun-loving natures, and complete devotion to their family members. In fact, the Labrador retriever continues to be the most popular dog breed in the US — a position the breed has held for 27 years straight! Take a gander and share your thoughts in the comments below! Note: K9 of Mine does not endorse irresponsible breeding — please keep in mind that this photo collection is intended for enjoyment and pooch appreciation, not as any kind breeding recommendation or resource. There is very little official data about mixed breed dogs, so the photos displayed here are chosen based on information given by owners. We are unable to personally verify the breed heritage of the pooches shown here — instead, we must simply trust that owners are truthfully describing their dogs with they share photos of their mixed breed canines. TL;DR: Just enjoy the cute photos of doggos! The Basics of the Labrador Retriever Before we introduce you to some of the cutest Lab mixes around, it is important that we talk about a few of the basics of Labradors. This will help you decide whether a Lab mix may be a good fit for your family! Labradors usually weigh between 60 and 80 pounds and stand about 22 to 24 inches at the shoulder. Labs have moderately long lifespans of about 12 years, though some reach even older ages. Labs are members of the sporting group, who were originally bred to help fisherman tend nets, until their owners started using them to retrieve downed birds. Labrador retrievers have a friendly, happy-go-lucky demeanor, and they usually get along with most two- and four-footers they encounter. Labs are full of energy and often make superb running or hiking companions. Labrador retrievers can make great pets for first-time dog owners, so long as you provide plenty of exercise and stimulation each day. Labs are people-oriented dogs, who thrive best in homes that are rarely empty. Labrador retrievers are generally intelligent and eager to please, making training a breeze. Labs tend to shed pretty heavily, thanks to their thick double coats. Labrador retrievers do often suffer from a few common health problems, including patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, and osteochondritis dissecans. No dog breed is perfect for all situations or scenarios, but as you can see, Labs are certainly one of the most appealing breeds in the world and they have quite a bit to offer the right family! Without further ado, here are some Labrador designer breeds that are sure to steal your heart. In some cases, like the Labradoodle a cross between a Labrador retriever and a poodle , the names are pretty popular and used widely. Australian Shepherd Lab mixes also produces some puppers with pretty adorable coat color patterns , which just adds to their appeal. These pups are best paired with active owners. But while they may have blockier builds than typical Labs, most of these guys and gals are big softies, who love nothing more than cuddling with their humans. Like Labs, American bulldogs excel at a wide variety of tasks, making them great all-around dogs for families, farmers, hunters, and more! Labs are lovable goofballs who are all about fun and games, while Akitas are no-nonsense pooches, who project an air of competence and quiet dignity. One pooch in the litter may take after the Lab parent, while another may more closely resemble the Akita. Name aside, these playful pups have energy levels that are off-the-charts, so be sure you have a big yard and plenty of time to visit the park before adding one of these dogs to your family. Well, the Beagador may be just the thing! But, they can be a bit aloof around strangers. But when you cross a bullmastiff with a Lab — a dog who views all strangers as potential pals — all bets are off! These mixes can be a bit of a house-keeping headache, as Labs shed pretty heavily, while bullmastiffs are Olympic-caliber droolers. Labs have held the 1 spot since , but the cocker spaniel has sat atop the popularity pyramid in 23 different years since the s. Note that there are two different corgi breeds the Cardigan Welsh corgi and the Pembroke Welsh corgi , and each will produce a slightly different version of this mixed breed. Either are considered Lab Corgi dogs. Doberdor Labrador Retriever X Doberman Pinscher A post shared by Charli the doberdor charlithedoberdor Given that Dobermans and Labs are both very affectionate dogs who bond strongly with their owners, Doberdor mixed breed pups will make great companions for individuals and families alike. The Doberdor loves his human family and will make it known with endless puppy kisses and loyalty. Wanna see more Doberman mixes? Check out 15 of our favorites here! You may just want to consider the Dalmador. Labs make pretty good jogging partners themselves, and Dalmatians can run for days. Honestly, there are a variety of Dalmatian mixes available for fans of polka-dotted pooches. Dachsador Labrador Retriever X Dachshund. Typical Lab mix traits The best Lab mix breeds are of course a matter of opinion. As with any purebred dog, it depends entirely upon why you want a canine companion. If you want a small Lab mix as a family companion then getting one who is crossed with a smaller, calmer breed is a good choice. But if you want a dog for sports or hunting then going with a Labrador crossed with another working breed is a sensible move. If you want a dog to have a go at agility, then a Collie cross is a great place to start. Lab mix dogs are often found in shelters or Lab rescue centers. What is My Lab Mixed With? Labrador mix bred dogs can often look very different to either of their parents. And in some cases, if the parentage is unknown it is entirely possible that they have more than one breed in their genetic makeup. If you are rescuing an older dog, the only way to know with reasonable certainty where your mixed breed dog came from, is to order a DNA test. This will give you as many as three or four generations back, and give you a great idea what breeds went into your wonderful dog. They are fairly rare, as Afghan hounds are not terribly numerous. Your Afador puppy is likely to grow to be fairly large, as both Afghan Hounds and Labradors are reasonably tall. You could therefore end up with a dog with medium to long fur, which will require regularly grooming. Afghan temperaments tend to be more aloof than that of Labs, with less boisterous enthusiasm for everyone they meet. Basset Hound Lab mix Another rare cross but one which has great appeal to some people, is the Bassador. They are on average around 14 inches tall as adults, with body proportions suiting a larger breed of dog and shortened legs. Working line Basset Hounds tend to be in far better shape than their show bred cousins, and this is where you should start your search if you have your heart set on a Bassador. Border Collie Lab Mix Border Collies are incredibly intelligent dogs, who work very well with their owner if properly trained. Loyal to their families, and fairly indifferent to everyone else. They are quick to learn and can be taught a mind boggling range of activities through positive reinforcement training. The show dogs tend to be the least driven, although still high energy dogs that require a lot of stimulation. Like Labs as puppies they can be very nippy. This can express quite strongly around children, as they attempt to herd them around. They are not generally therefore recommended to families with very young kids. They do however often make excellent pets when older for active, busy families who enjoy training and working together. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are without a doubt some of the friendliest little dogs in the world. They are charismatic, fun and loyal. They also have a fairly good average lifespan of 11 years. However, there are a couple of big, scary health problems associated with large numbers of this breed, so be very careful and do a lot of research if you are thinking of bringing one into your home. Health problems impacting a vast quantity of these little dogs include mitral valve disease , a heart problem which causes early death, and syringomyelia. This is a neurological problem caused by the size and shape of their skulls, not allowing their brain and brain stem to be properly accommodated. Two very popular breeds of gundog with a lot of similarities, this is one of the cross breeds where can be fairly confident of the type of Lab mix you will be getting when you bring home your puppy. Goldadors are very popular seeing eye dogs. They are well known for being intelligent, fast learners and very co-operative with their handlers. Like their Golden Retriever and Labrador parents, they tend to have very friendly temperaments and love spending time with their human family. Golden Retrievers are similarly sized dogs to Labradors, but with a far longer and wavier coat. Most Goldadors seem to have shorter fur more like the Lab parent, but this is not guaranteed. Bernese Mountain Dogs tend to be fairly calm and aloof as adults, and require a lot of dedication to socialisation when they are young due to potential nervousness around strangers and guarding tendencies. Due to their size, they are not really recommended for homes with young children or frail adults. Bernese Mountain Dogs are very large, growing up to 28 inches tall and weigh up to pounds. They also have a long coat, which requires a lot of grooming to keep in a good condition. Unfortunately like many extra large breeds, Bernese Mountain Dogs do not have very long life expectancies, averaging around 8 years long. When looking at longevity size is a big factor, and giant breed dogs regardless of whether they are mix bred or not will have shorter lifespans. You could therefore expect to see your puppy potential live fewer years than the average purebred Lab. They are utterly beautiful dogs, and if well managed can make wonderful companions. Labmaraner The Weimaraner is a beautiful dog, and an intelligent one too. Like all members of the gun dog group he has been bred with co-operative working in mind. Although he tends to be slightly less people focussed in general than your average Lab. This means that they are not as obsessed with greeting everyone when you take them for a walk. However, they can also be a little harder to engage in the training process and in some cases be even more driven than a Labrador. Like Labs, Weimaraners can also be prone to separation anxiety when left alone for long periods. Labradoodle Labradoodles are the most popular Labrador Retriever designer dog breed at the moment. A Labradoodle will not necessarily be a non-shedding dog, and may require some extreme grooming or very regular visits to the poodle parlour in order to not become matted. Pitbull Lab Mix The Pitbull Lab mix should be a great family dog, full of energy, with a short, easy care coat. Rottador or Labrottie Rottweilers crossed with Labradors are known as Labrotties. Or Rottadors. And they can be incredibly beautiful and dedicated companions to their families. Rottweilers can be up to around 27 inches tall, with big heads, deep chests and well muscled bodies. They are powerful dogs and need commitment to positive training from day one from their families in order to understand how to behave in their homes. Rottweiler temperament is also quite different to that of your average Labrador Retriever. There is no way of knowing which of his parents your Labrottie will take after. Rottweilers are a guarding breed. Extremely loyal to their family, but known to be wary of strangers and unpredictable around children if improperly socialised and managed. Your Labrottie puppy must be very well socialised, just as you would with a pure guarding breed dog. Make sure he has regular positive contact with people of every age, and is familiar with things like beards, hats and unusual items of clothing. Springador Springer Spaniels crossed with Labs are often referred to as Springadors. They can make fabulous pets or working dogs, but can have the extremes of both breeds. They are not for the inexperienced or inactive owner. Springers are very lively dogs with an incredibly high prey and hunting drive. They benefit from positive reinforcement training from an early age. In general Springers have great temperaments. However, there are some working lines which have nervous aggression problems and fixations on light chasing. Make sure that you meet the Springer parent to ensure that they are confident and not agitated. English Springer Spaniels tend to be smaller and lighter than Labs, with a longer coat. Springadors often have shorter coats, and can look a lot like a slightly shaggy black Lab with a few white markings. Lab Mix Temperament When you buy a mixed breed dog, their temperament will be a product of their varying lineage. They could end up with any mixture of the two lines temperaments, or something completely different. Make sure to meet both parents to ensure that they are confident, friendly characters. If both lines are happy, loving dogs then the chances are good that your puppy will be the same. Photo kindly provided by N Pappalardo. If your Labrador is a known cross, then you can make an educated guess that he could be anywhere between the average sizes for those breeds. However, it not always the case. And with a Labrador mixed with unknown other dogs, then they really could be any size at all. The Labrador element to their genetics does not limit their growth. Nor do they mean that they will definitely have any specific height to them. There will potentially be huge variation even within the litter. I grew up next door to a family who had two Labrador x Terriers from the same litter. One looked exactly like a Labrador in every way, except she had very short legs. The other was Labrador height but with a totally different shape. If size matters to you, then a purebred puppy or dog over 18 months old might be a better choice. Lab Mix Health Mix breed dogs can still be susceptible to the diseases carried by their parents. Especially if those diseases are common in both breeds. The Labrador parent should have a clear eye test of less than a year old. They should be PRA clear, and have a lower than average hip score. For full health testing for Labs check out this article. The other parent may also need a clear eye test, and a good hip score. The most important thing is to pick a puppy whose parents have both had all of the health tests relevant to their own breed. And whose personalities you would be happy to see replicated in your pup. Alternatively, look for a rescue dog that you have met and fallen in love with yourself. Should a Lab Mix take after their Labrador Retriever parent, they will be a playful, energetic, and affectionate dog that loves their families. Labrador Retrievers are energetic dogs that tend to have an extended puppyhood. They are also social, friendly, and tend to be patient and gentle with children. This makes them fantastic pets as they also tend to get along well with other dogs and even other pets, despite their retriever tendencies. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. You still want to ask questions about the other parent breed as they are bound to introduce some potential quirks of their own. Although Labs are happiest with room to run, they adapt well to apartments as long as they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and affection. They also do well in most climates, but do not like to spend long stretches of time alone. If the other parent breed is also highly adaptable, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? As with purebred dogs, health often depends on reputable breeding practices. Just as a mix can inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, they could also inherit all of them or some combination of them. From the Labrador side, potential health concerns to be aware of in a Labrador Mix include patellar luxation , hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cataracts. The other parent breed will likely introduce some other potential conditions to this list. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Labrador Retrievers are highly trainable dogs that can be a good fit for owners of any experience level. First-time owners may have a challenge at first with their high energy and exuberance, but tend to be successful. If the other parent breed is also highly trainable, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. If the other parent breed tends to be more challenging to train, then you will want to be prepared for that potential and be ready to enroll in puppy training classes if you need them. A Lab Mix can end up with a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is truly a mix of both. Should they inherit the Labrador Retriever coat, it will be short and will shed throughout the year with heavier shedding as the seasons change. Weekly brushing and the occasional bath keep a Lab coat healthy. Trimming nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long. Because dental care is often overlooked, gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Brushing teeth every day or using an enzyme toothpaste daily in addition to cleanings at the vet as needed helps prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Labrador Retrievers are high-energy working dogs that need plenty of exercise and a job to do to be happy. If the other parent breed is also a high-energy dog breed, then you should expect a Labrador Mix to be a high-energy dog as well. Even if the other parent breed sits in a lower activity range, you will still want to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog should they take after their Lab parent. Fully-grown Labrador Retrievers tend to stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. Labs generally live for years. Although the other parent breed could affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar average life span from a Labrador Retriever Mix. Featured Labrador Mix Article.

Special Note: You can also reach out to them on Instagram. Great Lakes Poodles — Michigan Great Lakes Poodles is a family business concentrating on the health and diversity of its dogs. Their goal is to maintain a high standard of quality for their breeding. They are a member of Betterbred , an organization that promotes breeding diversity using DNA identification. Similar to some breeders in this list, their breeding Poodles are either in their kennel or in carefully selected guardian homes. They will be tail docked upon request, but declawing is not done to avoid recurring nail infections. The Volhard Puppy Aptitude Test is also done for the puppies at seven weeks of age. All the Poodle breeders included on our list passed our standards. However, if you want to verify their legitimacy, read our ultimate puppy buying guide for some proven tips on how to safely find a breeder online or how to find a puppy for sale while avoiding scams. Many reputable breeders prioritize quality over quantity which makes the waitlist very long. The list below should be able to ease up this challenge for you. You may check reputable Poodle breeders from the following sites: Poodles For Sale — This is a Poodle dedicated sales platform designed to help lovers of the breed find the puppy they want. They feature hundreds of Standard, Miniature, Toy, and even designer Poodles. You can be assured that the hundreds of Poodle puppies for sale on the list conform to the breed standards. It also contains all the pertinent information you need regarding the breeder of the puppies, including their website, location, contact number, and distinctions. PuppySpot — PuppySpot is a user-friendly database that allows you to filter easily the details of the breed you want, including Poodles. Each puppy comes with specific details and a write-up that should aid you in finding your furry companion. They also provide a year Health Assurance program for their clients. If budget is a concern, you may also attempt to look for a Poodle in your local animal shelter or Poodle rescues. Should you be successful in locating a Poodle to adopt, it would be best to be knowledgeable about the adoption process. This will help your adoption experience be as hassle-free as possible. Though the places above give you a wide variety of choices, it is still very important to do a background check and educate yourself about the breed standards before making any purchase. How Much Does a Poodle Cost? It would also depend on the bloodline, size, color , pattern , and structure of the puppy you are looking for. Acquiring a Poodle puppy also comes with the cost of daily care and maintenance. This may vary depending on the size and age of your pet. Here is a quick summary of the initial expenses that you need to prepare for when you get a Poodle: Type of Expense. They thrive on human interaction and love to be involved in everything their family is doing. Miniature Poodles are quick learners and excel at obedience training. Very eager to please their people, they are a great choice for first-time dog owners. Mini Poodles are usually good with other dogs and children, but they can be a little bit reserved around strangers. With proper socialization from a young age, your Mini Poodle puppy will learn to interact well with people outside of their immediate family. Expect your new for-ever family member to have a lot of energy and need plenty of exercise. They need an outdoor walk every day to keep calm and centered. Check out this best-selling dog leash with a comfortable handle! While walks are a must, the Mini Poodle is not suited to be an outdoor dog. This breed has a long history as a circus dog, so this dog is a favorite choice for owners who want an athletic puppy who is open to learning tricks. Some Mini Poodles are territorial and highly excitable, but patient and consistent training can usually modify this behavior. For all of these reasons, finding homes for our Mini Poodle Puppies for sale is never challenging. Minatare Poodle Health Considerations The average life span of the miniature poodle is 13 — 15 years. Use ear cleaner wipes and eye wipes regularly to remove crust or discharge. All breeds of dogs should be brought in for regular vet checkups. Miniature Poodle Coat The Mini Poodle has a hypoallergenic coat which is excellent for allergy sufferers. Matting eventually causes skin irritation. If your Poodle has a long coat, you should brush out your Poodle every day. Check out this popular dog slicker brush and detangling comb that is perfect for your Mini Poodle. While Miniature Poodles are a fairly low-shedding dog breed, they still need coat care. Many Poodle owners opt for a short cut or trim to minimize grooming needs. When a shorter cut, you can reduce brush outs to a few times a week and get the coat trimmed up every weeks. Mini Poodles Puppies For Sale. Vocality level 5 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. This breed retains its hunting heritage, and loves to run, swim, and retrieve. The dog gets along well with everyone, although is somewhat reserved with strangers. The Poodle is excellent with children. Upkeep All Poodles need a lot of interaction with people. They also need mental and physical exercise. Standard Poodles will need more exercise and may especially enjoy swimming. They should preferably be brushed every other day or weekly for shorter coats. Poodle hair, when shed, does not fall out but becomes caught in the surrounding hair, which can cause matting if not removed. The pet clips are easier to maintain and can be done every four to six weeks. Interwoven in their ancestry are also several rough-coated water dogs. Perhaps the earliest incarnation of the Poodle was the Barbet, a curly-coated dog distributed in France, Russia, Hungary, and elsewhere. It is the German version, however, that exerted most influence on the modern Poodle. In France, it was known as caniche or chien canard, both referring to duck-hunting abilities. The Poodle was also drawn into service as a military dog, guide dog, guard dog, wagon puller for performers, and eventually, a circus performer. The coat was shorn close to facilitate swimming, but left slightly longer on the chest for warmth in cold water. The Poodle became favored by French aristocracy and eventually became the national dog of France. The characteristic clip was accentuated. In the 's, Poodle popularity in America waned. By the late s, Poodles had almost died out in North America. In the s, the breed staged a comeback that eventually placed the Poodle as the most popular dog in America for decades. Related Content. Life Span Did You Know? The Poodle is one of the oldest dog breeds and was originally developed in Germany to hunt waterfowl. The Poodle may have originated in Germany, but they are much-loved by the French. So much so that the Poodle is the national dog of France. The Miniature Poodle is slightly more recent. This Mini version likely originated in France. The Mini Poodle has all of the same characteristics as a Standard Poodle; they just come in a smaller package. The Miniature Poodle is one of the smartest dog breeds. On top of their intelligence, they are also known to have a cheerful disposition and a sensitive nature. They get along great with children. Due to their small size, they can be easily injured by rough play or accidental falls that can happen with younger children. Because of this, they may be better suited to a home with older children. Younger children should be fine as long as they are taught how to properly interact with a small dog and interactions between young kids and puppies are closely supervised. Although they are considered part of the Non-Sporting Group, some facts about Miniature Poodles are that they are versatile and athletic dogs that are also quite playful. Provided they are well-socialized, they get along well with other dogs and tend to do well with strangers. They do tend to be protective of their home and can be suspicious of strangers coming up on the property. They are known to bark to alert you of strangers coming to the house. This makes them a good watchdog, but overall, they are more interested in making friends. This dog breed is highly adaptable. The Miniature Poodle does well in any type of home, including apartments, and fits in with just about any family type. They do well in most climates, but, as with many dog breeds, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because Mini Poodles are people-oriented, they do not like being left alone and will not handle being left alone for long periods of time very well. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to make sure they are not passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Miniature Poodles are highly intelligent, easy to train, and eager to please, which makes them a good fit for owners of any experience level and one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are a people-oriented breed and are sensitive to moods and tones of voice. They do not respond well to harsh training methods or harsh tones as they take it personally, get their feelings hurt, and lose respect for you. A Mini Poodle tends to respond best to consistent training that is fun and focused on positive rewards. A Mini Poodle is one of the fluffiest dog breeds and will have a curly or corded coat that can come in just about any color. Although this dog breed has a low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat, their coat still needs a lot of grooming. They need to be brushed daily to prevent tangles and matting. They should also be professionally groomed every 4 to 6 weeks to keep their coat healthy. Miniature Poodles are high-energy dogs that require a good amount of exercise each day. Daily walks plus some playtime and other activities are usually enough for them. When puppies finish growing and developing, they often enjoy games of fetch and other activities like swimming, hiking, or jogging with their favorite human. Mini Poodles also tend to be great candidates for several dog sports, like agility, tracking, obedience, retriever hunt tests, and more. Just make sure to visit the vet and get your dog cleared for these activities before you jump in. Fully-grown Miniature Poodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Mini Poodles generally live for years on average. The Miniature Poodle was very popular among the French nobility. Featured Miniature Poodle Article.