german shepherd puppies for sale milwaukee

Harsh punishment during house training. And one important factor for this stinky act is the influence of other dogs. And who is the most influential to your pooch? His mother, of course. They lick the puppies as a way of encouraging them to pass their bowels. And when the little ones do, mommy dog will clean them up by eating their feces. Because of this, puppies develop the habit of eating poop. But it is not only mommy who is at fault. Having more than one German Shepherd, or several dog breeds, under one roof leads to imitation. It is not surprising if they begin to act alike or share the same habits, like snacking on poop. Your four-legged pal is snacking on poop! Stop him, of course! While veterinarians like Dr. Hart revealed that eating poop is natural for canines, it is still important to end the behavior. Well, for one, you would not want to kiss and cuddle with a pooch that reeks of stinking feces! But that is the least of your concerns. It can cause serious health issues, such as parasitic infections. Why is your German Shepherd buddy feasting on disgusting feces? Is he eating enough? And getting all the nutrients that his body needs? Are you giving him enough attention? Or maybe he is suffering from a medical condition? Prompt identification of what is causing the problem is crucial in solving it. But more than that, it will frighten you. What is wrong with my furbaby? A proper health check will reveal things that will help you understand why your dog is acting that way. More importantly, you will be able to find out whether your canine buddy is suffering from an illness or not. And you can help him before it gets too late. From there, you and the vet can develop a plan of action that can help your dog, like giving the necessary medications and administering proper treatments. If it is, then the solution is easy. All you have to do is provide a complete and balanced meal for your big buddy. Omega 3 fatty acids from vegetables. Healthy fat from sources that contain fish oil. Small amounts of digestible carbohydrates from barley, oats, and rice. High-quality protein from whole meat sources like beef and organ meats. The most common deficiency is that of Vitamin B. If this is the case, consider this: What is in the food you give your German Shepherd? Do you feed him enough? Does he need supplements? Consult your vet to find the answers. Then, you can give your pooch the proper supplements he needs to stay healthy and fit. This does not only refer to the inside of the house. The yard also needs to be kept clean, especially if this is where your dog takes his dump. As soon as your German Shepherd does his business, pick up his poop. This might sound like the simplest and most obvious thing to do. Because when he gets bored, he can start munching on anything he finds, poop included. But, attention alone is not enough to keep your pooch away from poop. Proper supervision is essential in stopping coprophagia. Distract the eager canine when he starts sniffing on something debatable. And keep him away from places where there is bound to be dirt and poop. Note: Put your German Shepherd on a leash when you go on walks. But also give him time to run freely in a safe environment, a dog park, for example. And the best way to avoid this feeling is not to punish them. If a German Shepherd is punished for pooping in the house, he may eat his poop in order to get rid of it. This is his attempt to remove the reason which he gets punished for. So, instead of punishing your dog, you can potty train him more effectively. Because if you are too hard on him, you can ruin your relationship. When you successfully do this, your big buddy will slowly ignore his waste after taking a dump. Reward him with a quick treat when he comes to you afterward. This will make him salivate, allowing him to naturally wash his own mouth. Let your dog chew on a dental stick or treat. Just be careful not to push your fingers too far in or your dog might gag. Conclusion It is uncomfortable, disgusting, and quite disappointing to know that your German Shepherd is eating poop. But remember, dogs are inclined to do it. Once you put the tips above into action, your dog will surely steer away from the unwanted behavior. Just make sure you couple your actions with patience, understanding, and love for your best buddy. It is disturbing for me, and I need to fix it. Do not be stunned because GSDs tend to have this issue. It is not only instinctive but a common behavior seen in GSDs. There is nothing wrong with your dog; it is just the way nature has made them. Not only is this their instinctive behavior but there are sometimes reasons behind this behavior in GSDs. In the wild, these dogs live in a pack and stick together. However, this reason for eating poop is not so common in them. This behavior is usually noticed in little pups that have just learned to chew and bite. They pick up tiny pieces of feces of other pups from the floor. This is a way of learning and exploring different things in their environment. Another scenario in which many GSDs are seen eating dung is when they have baby pups that are not able to clean themselves on their own. In such situations, a GS mother usually eats the feces of its little ones in order to keep the place clean. GSDs live in a pack, and there are positions for every member of the pack. The dominant dogs in the pack have the position of a leader and the submissive dogs eat their feces. This usually happens when many GSDs are kept in a single place or the wild. Submissive dogs do so to show obedience and respect to the alpha dogs of the pack. If your GSD lives with other dogs and sees any of them eating poop, it will immediately pick this up as a habit. However, their clever mind can sometimes become a problem for the owners that see them eating their own feces. Many times a GSD will start eating its own dung if it is being punished badly by its owners. Doing so will make your dog used to having the taste of its own feces and it will soon develop it as a habit that you will regret later. Remember, harsh punishments never work well with GSs. Other than that you can adopt the following techniques to put a stop to this embarrassing habit of your dog. These actions will tell your dog that this behavior is not encouraged or approved. Keep your dog under supervision when it is its poo time. Do not use chemical products to make this habit go away. Chemical products that are available in the market are not the best solution for the problem as they work for a few days and then leave side-effects. Chemicals have other effects like bad breath. Give your GSD a proper diet that includes digestive enzymes and probiotics. Make sure your German Shepherd is eating the best dog food available. Do not let your dog be bored because many GSDs will eat their own feces when bored. If your GSD is heading towards its feces, distract it using a toy or treat. It can be a Medical Condition Sometimes dogs eat feces because they need enzymes to digest the food that they eat, called the modern dog feed. The modern dog food is made up of carbohydrates, proteins, and plant proteins. As a result, the dog feels the need to eat its own dung in order to digest its food. They eat their dung because they need proper nutrients for their body, and soon they develop this into a habit. This is a medical condition, and you will need to take your dog to the vet. A proper check-up from a professional will get you to the cause and help you get rid of the problem. Do not lash out on your dog out of disgust. Of course, no one likes to watch their GSDs eating their excreta. However, reacting negatively or hitting your dog will not help either. Get to the root of the problem and figure out an effective solution. If your dog is exhibiting coprophagic behavior, address the problem immediately. Talk to experienced people, and try to find a healthy solution like changing its diet to a more nutritious one. Do not hesitate to ask any GSD related problem and concerns. Last Updated on September 5, by Post navigation. They may act inappropriately or display unwanted aggression toward something harmless. Other times, canines follow instincts that have no basis with humans. Perhaps one of the most unpleasant aspects of pet ownership is coprophagy or eating stool. German Shepherds are just as likely to show this unwanted behavior as any other breed. Some may theorize that instinctive drives are stronger in these dogs because of their resemblance to their wild counterparts. However, there are also other reasons why it occurs that may have health or behavioral roots. Knowing the cause can help you find a way to stop it. New evidence suggests a different path where the two species share a common ancestor. That means some of the hardwiring that existed in the wild may still reside in your German Shepherd. Their canine ancestors lived a life of feast or famine. Coprophagy may be a remnant of those survival instincts. Image Credit: cvop, Pixabay 2. Other animals will also eat feces, such as rabbits, nonhuman primates, and rodents. Maternal Instinct Is at Work Dogs are born helpless at birth. They are utterly dependent upon their mothers. That even covers the most basic things, such as staying warm or eliminating. A female will lick the puppies to encourage them to urinate and defecate. To protect them and themselves, the pup will clean up after the offspring. Another health condition that occurs frequently is thyroid disease. That can manifest itself in stool-eating behavior. Some disorders cause an abnormal increase in appetite, which a pup tries to meet this way. The bacteria interfere with the absorption of nutrients, which a pup will try to meet with other inappropriate sources. A Parasitic Infection May Encourage This Undesirable Behavior An intestinal parasitic infestation can cause similar symptoms, such as an abnormal appetite. The parasites consume the nutrients that the German Shepherd should get from its diet. Dogs can get infected in various ways. One of the most common is eating the feces of other animals, such as rabbits. This breed is an affectionate and loyal dog that is prone to separation anxiety if left alone too often. Failure to provide a mentally stimulating environment can set up the perfect storm for the pet to pick up undesirable behaviors, such as coprophagy. Image Credit: Vach cameraman, Shutterstock Controlling the Problem The first step toward stopping this problem is getting your dog a thorough examination by a vet. As our list shows, several medical reasons may prompt this behavior. Nutrient deficiencies are another common cause. A supplement is also an appropriate way to treat this condition. Your vet will likely recommend follow-up testing if a medical cause is behind the problem. The next steps may focus on the behavioral side. Factors such as separation anxiety or long stretches in a crate can cause a dog to act in this manner. You should also take an active role in preventing it while on walks or at the doggy park. Some of the canine instincts may not make sense to us. Nevertheless, they are perfectly normal in the canine world. Fortunately, correcting unwanted habits like stool eating is possible. It involves finding out the cause behind it and taking the appropriate actions. Coprophagia consumption of feces can be divided into 3 groups. These are: 1. Autocoprophagia: means a dog consuming its own feces 2. Intraspecific coprophagia: the consumption of feces of other dogs 3. Interspecific coprophagia: the consumption of feces of other animals and humans. Studies have shown that, historically, many dogs in developing countries developed a taste for feces while scavenging through trash including feces while trying to scavenge their next meal. While this behavior may seem rather indiscriminate, studies have also shown that the same dogs actually displayed a level of discernment, as they showed a disinclination to consume feces more than 2 days old. Wolves that are old or injured attempt to clean up their den areas that are shared with others by eating their feces. This is because they are intuitievely aware that the feces contains parasites. By consuming the feces within two days of defecating, it is ensured that the feces will be consumed before any parasite eggs hatch and infect any other wolves present. While there are many reasons why GSDs may eat poop, some of the most common reasons are as follows: Underfeeding Hungry dogs, dogs who do not eat regularly, or are starving are more likely to eat the feces of other dogs, animals, and humans. Dogs that eat only once a day and start eating poop may need more daily meals. Malabsorption Sometimes a GSD will eat feces if he is fed poor quality food long-term, especially if the food is high in fat content. Eating poop can also occur in dogs that are nervous, frightened, or under the influence of stress. Stress is a common cause of behavioral problems in dogs. If you feel that this may be the case with your GSD, it may be wise to consult with a dog trainer or behaviorist. A solution may be as simple as alleviating boredom. Other times, a GSD may see another dog eating feces, so he will want to try it too. It is also not uncommon for a young puppy to see his mother eating feces. It is common for a puppy to then simply imitate the behavior. Punishment If a GSD is being verbally scolded for pooping in the house, he may resort to eating his own feces in an attempt to make it disappear — no body, no crime! It is for this reason that it is very important to never scold your dog for pooping in the house. The true solution is proper potty training. For a detailed understanding of how to potty train your GSD puppy, I have written an excellent article for you right here. For example, when intestinal parasites are present, they exhaust the body and draw nutrients from it, causing your dog to feel increased hunger. A very common cause of this issue in German shepherds can be the Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency EPI. This is a condition characterized by a lack of digestive enzymes, which results in the inability to digest food properly, and thus leads to the inability to absorb nutrients. A dog suffering from this disease loses weight despite its good appetite and suffers from frequent and abundant diarrhea. Diabetes One of the causes of increased appetite and coprophagia as well can be diabetes. When cortisol levels are too high or too low, it can cause a host of problems. Attention-Seeking Behavior A German Shepherd may eat poop simply as a way provoke his owner into reacting. This is not too different than the behavior of a child when it wants attention. And, just like when dealing with a child, it is very important that you keep your cool if this is happening with your GSD. Reacting to it will only serve to reinforce the behavior. Forced and Restricting Confinement German Shepherds need space. This is why we highly recommend owning a GSD only if you have a large living space and preferably a yard. This is very common in GSDs that have been rescued after spending time in a crowded shelter. For more information on German Shepherd space requirements, check out this great article that we have for you right here. Living In Isolation German Shepherds are especially social dogs — much more so than other breeds. It is for this reason that they do not do well living in isolation. In fact, GSDs are highly susceptible to separation anxiety. As previously mentioned, anxiety can be a cause for poop eating behavior. For more information on GSD separation anxiety, take a look at this informative article. Unfortunately, there is no magic bullet for this one. There are, however, a few actions that you can take to curb this behavior if you feel that it is problematic. Make sure that you guide him away from eating poop while the behavior is under your control Properly Socialize Your German Shepherd As a German shepherd owner, you have to be prepared for long walks and running, because your dog needs them, at least twice a day. If possible, allow your dog to socialize with other dogs, which, along with a quality relationship with his owner, will help help him to avoid boredom and anxiety — both common reasons for a dog eating poop. A happy and occupied GSD will be less likely to engage in poop eating behavior. For a through guide on how to socialize your German Shepherd, we have a great article for you right here. It contains all that you need to know in order to successfully socialize your GSD. Instead of one meal, divide the daily amount of food into several meals, so that your dog does not feel hungry during the day. In my experience, dogs that eat balanced raw or cooked foods are less likely to consume feces. Feed Your German Shepherd a Holistic Diet Feeding a holistic diet to your dog works to get to the root of a problem, rather than just addressing the symptoms as they arise. For example, using an anti-itch cream may lessen the desire to itch, but it will not address the underlying problem. A holistic diet works to resolve the issue of your dog itching in the first place. Think of resolving health or behavioral issue as a series of connecting the dots — this can be a complicated process. A holistic approach to feeding your dog can make it so that there are no dots to connect in the first place by erasing the cause of them. The fundamentals of a holistic diet include: Probiotics: great for digestive system support Prebiotics: great for digestive system support High-quality protein: based in fish, beef, pork, or chicken Herbs: great to prevent inflammation Vitamins: essential for overall organ and bone health Minerals: essential for overall organ and bone health Antioxidants: great for immune system support and disease prevention Fiber: great for digestive system support Whole grains: contain high-quality carbohydrates for energy If preparing a holistic diet for your GSD is too time consuming for you, a great alternative is Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Dry Dog Food. This blend contains ingredients that include precise amounts of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that have been selected by animal nutritionists and, importantly, holistic veterinarians. In addition, if your GSD is suffering from diarrhea or related issues, beneficial bacterias in probiotics are a great way to boost them back to normal levels. These products usually come in different forms, such as yogurt, kefir, powders, capsules, chews, or dog foods. This probiotic contains a blend of 7 selected species of live beneficial bacteria with added Inulin. Your GSD is likely acting out of instinct, stress, or as an attempt to resolve a digestive or health issue. Just remember to be patient and understanding with your GSD, and have confidence that you will be able to curb this behavior. German Shepherds may eat their own poop for any number of reasons. Dietary deficiency, diseases, copycat behavior, behavioral problems, and even ancient genetic instincts may be reasons why your GSD eats their own stool, as the American Kennel Club AKC points out. This term applies equally to dogs, cats, and other pets. In the rest of this article, we will talk about the many reasons why you might catch your German Shepherd eating their own stool. While it is unlikely your dog is physically feeling hunger pangs when they go to eat their stool, it is quite possible there is an underlying dietary deficiency driving the behavior. As VCA Animal Hospitals explains, dietary deficiency in dogs can arise from a number of different potential causes. As this iFeeder report indicates, analyzing pet foods is big business in and of itself, and there is a lot of money riding on manufacturer reputation. So often you have to look for other clues — such as poop eating — to detect when there may be a mismatch. When a dog is missing certain vital nutrients, they may go back to their own poop to try to absorb more nutrition from each portion of the food they eat. This is a practice that is so essential for some mammals such as guinea pigs that they die if not permitted to engage in coprophagy. Luckily, dogs do not have a genetic nutritional need to eat their poop. But they may do so if their diet is chronically lacking. Your dog has parasites When your dog has parasites, they are essentially eating for the parasites as well as for their own health and nutrient needs. Unfortunately, eating poop is one of the primary ways that a dog can pick up parasites like hookworm, roundworm, and whipworm in the first place, as Vetz Insight explains. But it is not the only potential trigger. Deficiencies in certain key digestive enzymes may also be a culprit. As PetMD explains, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, or EPI, is the best-known medical problem that can result in coprophagy in dogs. The pancreas is responsible for producing a number of important digestive enzymes along with insulin. The latter is caused by defective cells. The former can be genetic or induced and may also be triggered by canine diabetes. Ongoing issues with diarrhea. Increased stool output. Eating stool. Interestingly, some German Shepherds that only seem to want to eat the stool of a particular dog may actually be responding to disease in the other dog. This can include stool, although it can also extend to other non-food objects like rocks, grass, leaves, stones, sticks, fabrics, and more. While most cases of pica are considered to be linked to behavior rather than medical problems, with coprophagy there can be a clear medical component as well. If your German Shepherd has a tendency to eat poop and other items that are not on the menu of a typical canine or are not on any menu at all , your pet may be suffering from pica. Your German Shepherd Dog Eats Poop for Behavioral Reasons If your dog has been evaluated and tested and your canine veterinarian has ruled out a possible medical cause for coprophagia, the other main area to look at is behavioral. In other words, German Shepherds that are healthy otherwise may still choose to eat their own poop. But why, you are probably wondering? This is what we will look at in the next section. GSD puppies, like all puppies, rely on the mother dog to lick them and remind them to do their business. Learning how to poop on their own is a big part of early puppyhood. It is a big deal! When your GSD puppy came home with you, potty training became a big part of daily life. Your puppy probably got lots of attention and praise when it was potty time and things went well. In the same way, if your puppy pooped in the house, they likely got quite a bit of attention for this as well — you might not have been happy about it, but your puppy was because your attention was focused on them. As Canine Journal explains, a poorly trained and socialized or previously traumatized German Shepherd may resort to poop eating rather than seeking attention in more positive and acceptable ways. This outdated and ineffective form of training is now thought to actually encourage coprophagia in dogs that have been subjected to it. The dog may start to eat their poop to hide it and avoid further discipline. Along the same lines, German Shepherd dogs can be especially prone to developing separation anxiety, which is another behavioral issue that is linked to poop eating. Your German Shepherd is acting out of instinct While this explanation walks a fine line between genetics and behavior, wild canid females have often been observed eating the feces of their young to try to remove the scent and throw potential predators off the trail. But what about when male puppies or adult GSDs do this? In this case, canid behaviorists think it may have to do with puppies watching their mother eat poop and picking up the behavior from her. After all, canid pups in the wild have to learn everything from their mother and would be carefully watching and mimicking everything she does — including eating their own poop. According to a research study reported in Live Science , the majority of dog owners that have tried to discourage stool eating in their dogs have experienced low or no success. However, this is not to say it is impossible to train your dog not to eat their own poop. You will just need a lot of patience and persistence to find what works to discourage your German Shepherd from eating poop. This will require consistent, determined effort on your part. You will need to watch your GSD closely on potty breaks and quickly remove the feces and dispose of it in a secure location. If your dog goes out at night or early in the morning, you will need to bring a flashlight to make sure you see where the poop is and can pick it up right away. Then you will reinforce this with praise, pats, treats, and attention. This way, you always know where to look to pick up the stool and your GSD is not lingering near it long enough to potentially eat it. But to dogs, it is quite possible they just eat poop because they like it! This can have an unexpected benefit if you need to train your GSD not to eat their own poop. As PetCareRX highlights, there are soft chews and additives available that may change the taste of the poop to make it undesirable. Foods like zucchini and pineapple can also change the tastebuds and may make poop and everything else taste different from your dog. Use a head or muzzle restraint This is not an ideal choice for training your German Shepherd dog not to eat poop for two reasons. One, restraints can be difficult to manage and your dog may be very determined to get out of a neck cone or head collar. And two, if your dog decides to mash their muzzle or restraint down on the poop to try to eat it anyway, then you have to clean it and your dog. But if nothing else is working, it is certainly worth a try. For example, if your GSD has developed separation anxiety, this can require special and intense training to overcome. You may need to temporarily put your dog in a daycare program or hire a dog sitter to keep your anxious GSD from eating their own poop. Alternately, if your German Shepherd hates their crate or some other aspect of their living space, you may need to explore an alternate arrangement for when you need to confine your dog. German Shepherds are extremely intelligent working dogs that have been bred for more than a century to work hard at difficult, demanding, and sometimes dangerous jobs. Your dog may be bored and lonely and acts out because eating poop is something to do to fill the time. You may find that adding more canine athletics, taking your dog for more walks, adding some additional playtime, and using more puzzle toys and treat toys work to tire out your dog and keep poop eating behavior at bay. Remember, above all else, your German Shepherd dog wants your attention, time, and love. More of you often equals less eating poop.

This mixed breed is a cross between a German Shepherd and Alaskan Malamute that likely originated in the early s. Bred to carry packages and pull sleds, breeders wanted the best of two already popular, strong purebreds. Over the years, people combined various strains of this purebred to produce the modern-day GSD. Fun fact: The German Shepherd is quite popular in pop culture, too. From wolf to dog: the Alaskan Malamute Alaskan Malamutes , or simply Mals, are descendants of canines from the Paleolithic period. Meet the cheerful Alaskan Malamute Malamutes are directly domesticated from their wolf ancestors, explaining their fierce wolf-like appearance — rock deep chests with powerful shoulders and erect ears. It tells the tale of a scientific expedition in Antarctica. What does an Alaskan Shepherd look like? They have pointy, erect ears, and eyes that can be hazel, brown, or blue. Then their noses can either be black or brown. German Shepherd Malamute mixes have great strength, which is evident in their muscular body and sturdy disposition. How big does a German Shepherd Malamute mix get? Alaskan Shepherds have a height of 21 to 28 inches 53 to 71 cm and weigh 60 to pounds 27 to 59 kg , with females being a tad smaller than males. Medium- to giant-sized dogs are NOT suitable for apartment living. They need a house with a large indoor and outdoor space to be comfortable. Are German Shepherd Malamute mixes hypoallergenic? They have a straight, medium-length double coat made up of a soft, dense undercoat and a thick, rough topcoat. These fluffy beauties can have a red, brown, gold, black, and grey color coat. But other combinations and shades are possible too, like blue, silver, sable, white, cream, and liver. They can be tricolored, too. Temperament: Is a German Shepherd Malamute mix a good family dog? Alaskan Shepherds are affectionate, loyal crossbreeds that are excellent with children. Be cautious and supervise play because this pooch might not be aware of how strong and big they are. Their independence can make them stubborn and would need a pack leader. Early socialization and training are crucial to avoid potential aggressive behaviors, which comes from their GSD parent. Eventually, they can serve as therapy or service dogs. So go ahead and train your pup as early as two and a half weeks. Want to see how smart the German Shepherd-Alaskan Malamute cross is? Watch this video of Zoey instinctively herding goats! After bringing your Alaskan Shepherd home Be aware that these dogs require moderate to intense maintenance. They need some serious upkeep. Are you up for it? This will provide you full access to brush her coat, especially the parts where matting often occur, like the neck area. Get your bristle brush and run it in one direction. Some owners use a deshedding tool twice a week to lessen the amount of shedding. Baths should only be given when your doggo looks and smells dirty to avoid drying her coat and skin. And use a soothing shampoo that has aloe vera and oatmeal. For that weekly ear cleaning, use a cotton ball and a dog-specific ear solution. The frequency of nail trims will depend on activity level since dogs can naturally wear down their nails with exercise. They could get dry and scaly; if this happens, you can use Vaseline as treatment. Exercise: How active are Alaskan Shepherds? The Alaskan Malamute-German Shepherd cross has parents with a working background, so we can expect this pooch to be highly active. But at least an hour of exercise a day will be sufficient. Plan for a range of activities to keep your fur baby engaged. They also need mental stimulation. You can play fetch with her, or give her time to enjoy sniffing and running around. The best food for a German Shepherd Malamute mix The kind of diet and amount of food you should give your dog will depend on her age, weight, metabolism, and health. Choose a brand with high levels of protein and calcium, as well as easy-to-digest ingredients like rice, chicken, and barley. Hypoallergenic dog food may also be a great choice since the German Shepherd breed is prone to various allergies. Resist those puppy-dog eyes! Are these dogs healthy? Still, all dogs can inherit some of the health problems that their purebred parents are predisposed to. Where to buy Alaskan Shepherd puppies? There are many places where you can find a German Shepherd Malamute mix puppy for sale. Do your research and ask questions before deciding who to buy from. Responsible breeders mostly require potential buyers to visit their kennel for a meet-and-greet, as well as to conduct interviews. In fact, we encourage you to get a dog that aligns with your lifestyle. Here are other designer dogs you may want to check out:. However, both parents may still carry specific genes, such as those for hip and elbow dysplasia, putting your Alaskan Shepherd puppy at risk. Always seek out a reputable breeder and always ask to see the DNA reports and hip and elbow scores of the parents before purchasing a puppy. This way, you do not encourage irresponsible breeding practices. Some other genetic issues to look out for include cartilaginous exostosis, which involves bony enlargements on any part of the skeleton except the skull, and chondrodysplasia, which sometimes affects Malamutes. It is a type of dwarfism that creates abnormally shaped limbs. Malamutes should also be screened for idiopathic polyneuropathy, day blindness, hypothyroidism, and cataracts before they are bred. In terms of the German Shepherd parent , genetic disorders include degenerative myelopathy, resulting in complete paralysis of the hindlegs, and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. This problem can lead to digestive issues. German Shepherds are also prone to various cancers, such as renal cystadenocarcinoma and nodular dermatofibrosis. These cause skin nodules and kidney tumors. German Shepherd crosses have been known to inherit these genes. An Alaskan Shepherd is also at risk for Von Willebrand disease, a blood-clotting disorder. While some dogs may never show any symptoms of this disease, others might bleed profusely from orifices like the nose, and cuts and scrapes can turn quite serious. Finally, since this is an active breed with a hearty appetite, its diet should be monitored if it eats a little more than it burns off exercising, as Alaskan Shepherds have been known to struggle with obesity. What is the lifespan of an Alaskan Shepherd? The German Shepherd is often not a long-lived dog, which can influence its offspring. However, the Alaskan Malamute is quite hardy, and so the Alaskan Shepherd can be expected to live between 7 and 14 years. The trainability of a Malamute German Shepherd mix: Temperament and Intelligence Generally, the Alaskan Shepherd inherits a high working drive from both parents, meaning it is at its happiest when it has a job to do. It also usually has the intelligence of the German Shepherd, making it moderately to highly trainable. One trait it will also likely gain from its GSD parent is its guardian instincts. However, this might be affected by the Malamute parent, as Malamutes are incredibly affectionate to all people and are usually not good guard dogs. Many Alaskan Shepherd owners report their dogs making the same hilarious sounds. However, like many ancient breeds, the Malamute is an independent and sometimes domineering dog with little patience for repetition in training and a strong mind of its own. It may well pass this willfulness down to the Alaskan Shepherd. Sociability with Other Pets It should also be noted that while the Malamute typically loves people, it also tends to have a high prey drive, making it a challenge to keep in homes with smaller animals. It has also been known to be dominant and sometimes aggressive with other dogs. So much so that it is recommended never to keep these dogs with others of the same gender. It is hoped that in the Alaskan Shepherd mix, although some of this may be less prevalent, that you socialize the dog from an early age and establish yourself as a pack leader. Preferably it should live in a cooler climate, better suited for its double coat, and should be given access to as much space as possible. Do German Shepherd Malamute mixes make good family dogs? The Alaskan Shepherd is the perfect dog for the right family. They tend to be protective and loving with children, although they should always be supervised because of their size. So long as their need for stimulation, challenges, and exercise are met, they are loyal guardians and devoted companions. Raising a German Shepherd Malamute mix puppy As a large to possibly giant dog, the German Shepherd Malamute cross needs to have its exercise carefully monitored while young to avoid undue stress on its joints. This is no small task since a young Alaskan Shepherd is likely to be rambunctious and rowdy. This means it will need carefully structured exercise and early socialization and training to deal with any potential aggression problems. Training should be kept short and positive to avoid problems with its stubborn streak. It will also need specially formulated food to help it grow. For this, it is best to speak to your veterinarian and make sure he is on a balanced diet. Since it is a mixed breed, the exact price can be hard to pinpoint. While this may not be the breed for a passive home, it can make an excellent companion, hunter, and sledding dog for anybody willing to put in the time. With enough stimulation, exercise, and training, the Alaskan Shepherd is likely to make one of the best dogs a person could own. If you are interested in this breed or have any experience with them, be sure to let us know about it in the comments below. Tamsin De La Harpe Author Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs. Alaskan Malamutes are speculated to have descended from wolves and may have accompanied hunters on their travels as far back as 4, years ago. Named after the Mahlemuts Indian tribe, they have long been bred for pulling sleds and assisting in big game hunts. As the official state dog of Alaska, this AKC-recognized breed has gained large fame across much of the northern and central United States. As you might expect, German Shepherds originally hail from Germany. Developed through intensive crossbreeding of native shepherding dogs in the early s, they were bred specifically to herd sheep. Renowned for their responsiveness and naturally well-behaved temperaments, they soon became a popular option for working dogs in every profession — even the German military. Their ancestors may have crossed the Bering Strait. As far back as 4, years ago, it is speculated that Paleo-Indian tribes migrated from Asia to North America via a land bridge that was only passable due to lower ocean levels. Larger dogs of this breed can nearly double the average weight. Uncommon amongst any dog breed, the Alaskan Shepherd has ancient genes that sometimes produce surprising results. Whereas most dogs of this breed weigh between 60 and 80 pounds, the largest examples can weigh in excess of pounds! Puppies of this breed can seem to have boundless energy and require substantial amounts of training to curb their constant enthusiasm and occasional recklessness. Are These Dogs Good for Families? While they would never intentionally harm a child — and often go to great lengths to protect them — their herding instincts can lead them to bully or boss children around without meaning to. As puppies, they may not be as inclined to spend time with other dogs and especially not cats or rabbits. Once they grow older and naturally mellow out, though, they can be very sociable and welcoming dogs. Things to Know When Owning an Alaskan Shepherd Adopting an Alaskan Shepherd will almost certainly be a large investment of your time, money, and attention. Possessed of great stores of energy and endurance, they love being taken outdoors for walks, runs, and hikes. A good baseline to shoot for is an hour per day of moderate activity, though they can easily handle more without complaint. If you like a dog that you can play games with, the Alaskan Shepherd is an excellent choice! This is especially true in the spring and fall when they will lose one coat to prepare for the season ahead. Weekly brushings will suffice for most of the year, but this should be increased to a daily frequency during their shedding seasons. However, they have inherited a tendency from their ancestors towards a few medical conditions, such as the following: Minor Conditions. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. He is very energetic and well mannered. He is very gentle with children and protective of the whole family. He is very loving and great with our kids as young as 2 years old. He is very calm and we couldn't ask for a better puppy. He is full of energy and very loving. An intelligent dog and very easy to train. He howls like a Malamute and barks like a Shepherd. He loves playing with other pups and dogs as soon as he is familiar with them and his surroundings. He is very well house trained already and has not shed a hair in our home. He is very dependent on us for companionship and does not like being alone at all. He is very big boned and strong. He gets a lot of exercise, loves to play and is friendly with people. Ben is very intelligent and is easily trained. His prey drive is very high but living with a cranky cat is curbing that. An amazing pup who's growing quickly into an excellent well mannered Alaskan Shepherd who tends to howl at night. She is a very intelligent, mostly well-behaved dog who can be stubborn at times when it comes to learning commands, but she is very well housetrained. Naomi adapts well to new environments, proving this when we moved from the country to an apartment nearly miles away. She loves car rides and going places. She is very people-oriented and is good with children and cats, but she likes to establish her rank with other dogs before accepting their presence. She can be a bully, but is not really dog-aggressive. This dog is not very playful with other dogs, but loves to play with people. She displays many Malamute behaviors and some Shepherd behavior. She rarely barks, but instead makes the "woooo" talking sound Malamutes make and she howls when sirens are heard. She has some protective behaviors will growl at suspicious people when being walked at night , but she probably wouldn't keep a burglar out of the house if I was away. Her appearance and size, however, deter many people from coming too close without asking. She can be mischievous, but she is generally laid-back as long as she's walked several times a day. She is very clean and grooms herself like a cat. She sheds A LOT all year long. She is a large dog, around 83 pounds. Naomi was diagnosed with hip dysplasia when she was a year old and it had already caused arthritis. The only bad point is he sheds a huge amount of fur, but that may be due to the heating inside our home. Their eyes will be almond-shaped and usually brown, although they can have hazel or blue eyes depending on their parents. The colour of their coat can vary greatly between the two dogs with some appearing greyer like an Alaskan Malamute and having browns and reds like the German Shepherd. Regardless of the colouring, their coat will be very dense. Their fur is usually quite thick and straight, taking after their parent breeds, and will be medium to long in length. Alaskan Shepherd Grooming Much like both parent breeds, Alaskan Shepherds need regular grooming to keep their coats looking healthy and in good condition. They have a very dense double coat that sheds heavily, especially when they are blowing their coat which usually happens once or twice a year. As a result, Alaskan Shepherds will need a grooming session at least once a week to remove loose hairs and keep their coat looking shiny and healthy. Daily or twice-daily grooming will be necessary during coat-blowing season. We recommend prospective owners invest in a good deshedder tool, along with a slicker brush and a pin brush in order to be well equipped for grooming. Alaskan Shepherds only need bathing with shampoo occasionally, for example once a month, as their double coat is designed to stay naturally clean. In between baths, their undercoats should be checked for any debris that may have gathered whilst outside. Alaskan Shepherds are not a hypoallergenic breed and therefore, they are not suitable for owners with allergies. As with all dogs, their nails will need to be trimmed regularly and their teeth should be kept clean with dental chews or otherwise. They are very intelligent dogs and benefit from being trained to learn commands and tricks. Their intelligence does mean that they can become restless and bored if they are not given stimulation, which can sometimes lead to anxiety and destructive behaviours such as chewing. Much like the Alaskan Malamute, the Alaskan Shepherd is a stubborn breed and they enjoy their independence just as much as they enjoy company. They will happily walk all over their owners if they are allowed to and owners need to be as strong-willed as their dogs to prevent any destructive or dominant behaviours from developing. For that reason, we do not recommend the Alaskan Shepherd to first-time dog owners. Whilst Alaskan Shepherds are very friendly towards humans, they can be aggressive to other dogs and pets within the home. They should be socialised with other dogs at a young age to prevent aggression in later life. The breed is suitable to live with children, but they should always be supervised when around young children due to their large size and build. Alaskan Shepherd Health Note: If you have any health concerns about your dog, please speak to a registered vet. The expected lifespan of an Alaskan Shepherd is 10 to 13 years. As with all dog breeds, the Alaskan Shepherd is prone to certain health problems in their lives. The main health concerns to look out for are: Obesity — Both the Alaskan Malamute and German Shepherd are prone to obesity caused by overeating. Chondrodysplasia — an abnormal growth of cartilage that results in disproportionate dwarfism, sometimes seen in the Alaskan malamute. Degenerative Myelopathy — a progressive disease of the spinal cord in older dogs that can eventually result in the inability to move the hind legs, more commonly seen in the German Shepherd. These are all typical concerns of large dog breeds. As the owner of an Alaskan Shepherd, there are several health tests you can ask for at the vet to ensure their health is on the right track. Booking them in for these tests on regular occasions once yearly for example can help to identify any of the above-mentioned health problems early. The recommended health tests for an Alaskan Shepherd are: Elbow and hip evaluation DNA test for von Willebrand disease Ophthalmologist evaluation If you are adopting an Alaskan Shepherd puppy, make sure you have them vaccinated against preventable diseases and regularly worm and flea them. Alaskan Shepherd Exercise Needs Both the Alaskan Malamute and the German Shepherd were bred to be working dogs and as a result, require a lot of daily exercise to keep them occupied. It should be no surprise, therefore, that the Alaskan Shepherd is also a high-energy and high-endurance breed. The average Alaskan Shepherd will need around 60 minutes of activity a day but this will typically decrease with age. Alaskan Shepherds love the outdoors so having a large yard for them to run around is essential. They should also ideally live somewhere close by to parks or long walking trails to help fulfil their daily exercise needs. As previously mentioned, Alaskan Shepherds are highly intelligent breeds and they need plenty of ways to keep their mind stimulated throughout the day to prevent them from getting bored. The height of these crossbreeds varies from 21 to 24 inches. Males and females have little height difference. You can expect this crossbreed to have a medium-length, double coat. The colors of their coat can be a combination of black, gray, red, gold, and brown. This type of coat helps them cope with the extremely cold environment. The Malamute German Shepherds are diligent working dogs. On top of that, they are alert and aware of their surroundings. They make excellent watchdogs. They bark appropriately without being annoying and disturbing. They have keen senses to discern suspicious acts and people. Another trait it possesses is its affectionate nature. The gentle and loving German Shepherd Malamutes can come off as intimidating at first sight. In reality, they are fluffy and lovable dogs that enjoy the company of people. You must apply good researching techniques to locate professional breeders when it comes to crossbreeds. Professional breeders allow you to access the documents of the puppy, including health records and DNA testing. They also provide a suitable environment for the upbringing of the dogs. They will help you become reassured that the dogs will grow to have minimal problems regarding their health. Visit the breeders in their location is highly recommended. Another way to verify a breeder is through this visitation. You might think that another good place to acquire this crossbreed is through purchasing in pet stores. I advise against this method. As a breeding ground, the puppy mill has thousands of stories supporting the terrible conditions for breeding. The puppy mill does not provide the most suitable environment for rearing puppies. In this place, the puppies are forced to mate with one another and give birth. This mixed breed is relatively rare. There are some breed-specific and non-profit rescue centers all over the country. You can check out these rescue shelters to obtain a new fluffy companion. Their shedding process usually involves a lot of mess and hair, especially during periods with warm weather and when placed in a blistering environment. Brushing the coat needs to be done for three to five times per week. If your dog has a collar, remove it when brushing the coat, and do not leave out the neck area unkempt. You should pay attention to spots where tangles occur often, like the base of the ears. You can prevent loose hair from the brushing process by dousing the coat with water. Another tip for maintaining the shine of the coat is using a slicker brush instead of a pin brush. You can also get rid of loose hair and some debris by using the brush. If you notice that your dog is uncomfortable each time you brush or comb its coat, you should consider starting a desensitization training. The process starts with using your hands to familiarize the dog with the brushing activity. After some time, you may alternate between using a real brush or comb and using your hands. You can finally change to a full-time brushing with a slicker brush after a few weeks. The little parts of the Malamute German Shepherd Mix, such as its eyes, nose, nails, ears, and paws, must be cared for as well. You should check for ear infection signs like the accumulation of earwax. A cotton ball and an ear solution formulated for dogs are must-haves for sanitary ears. For dried and scaly paws, you may utilize Vaseline as treatment. The popular opinion of daily bathing for dogs is not advisable to follow. The indication for bathing the dog is its appearance or smell. You may use formulations with ingredients that are soothing to its skin, like aloe vera. It is important to determine some early signs of skin lesions. If you are unable to do the necessary steps for grooming, you should opt to bring your pup to a professional groomer in your locale. There are many innate and environmental factors affecting the health status of the crossbreed. Some of these factors are genetic make-up, the environment where it grew up, nutrition, and level of activity. There are some health problems with a predilection to one of the parent breeds. As a reliable owner, you must be cognizant of the health risks of this crossbreed. Obesity: This mixed breed tends to eat more than its requirement. This should be controlled because it makes the dog vulnerable to many diseases, such as back pains, cancer, and joint problems. Chondrodysplasia: This condition may lead to hip dysplasia. Degenerative myelopathy: This is an untreatable and progressive disorder that results to the inability to move the hind legs. Von Willebrand disease: It is a blood disorder that causes a lot of blood loss. One of the things you can do is to acquire vaccines. The recommended vaccines for puppies are rabies, measles, and a combination vaccine called DHPP. I strongly advise seeking the help of a trustworthy veterinarian to become knowledgeable on the signs and symptoms to watch out for. Malamute Crossed with German Shepherd Food Requirements There is no fixed quantity of food for a dog, even among those with the same breeds. You need the most appropriate diet that will result in the optimal condition of your dog. The general amount of food suitable for an adult German Shepherd Malamute mix dog may vary from 2 cups to 3 cups of high-quality food items. Two to three meals per day are advised for these crossbreeds. Your dog requires healthy bones and joints for its activity. It needs a healthy amount of calcium for that. Calcium will also aid in giving the best status of immunity. Another vital mineral for the development of bones and joints is phosphorus. Below is an inventory of the recommended dry food for the Malamute crossed with German Shepherd dogs. It includes nine simple key ingredients. It has a meat component that ensures a tasty and adequate amount of animal protein. It does not have any unhealthy additives. This brand has a 4, 12, or pound bags available. Purina HA Hypoallergenic: This hypoallergenic formulation is perfect for some dogs which may be predisposed to developing food intolerance and allergies. The optimal effect of this product is achieved by giving this alone for eight to 12 weeks. You can combine this food with other kinds of high-quality kibbles after the said period. It does not have allergenic materials like soy, whey, and gluten. It does not have artificial flavors. It contains Omega-6 fatty acids that help in moisturizing the coat and adding the healthy glow for the skin. It has easy-to-digest and organic components such as rice, chicken, and barley. It has reported on nutritional breakthroughs. It possesses prime chicken and customized fiber system for easy digestion. The German Shepherd Malamute mix may be at risk for overfeeding and obesity. An easy way to determine this is by doing the hands-on test and eye test. These two tests will require you to examine the dog beside you and looking at its waist from above. You will feel the ribs of the dog when you press down if the dog is not overweight. A positive result of this test should alert you as a responsible owner. A veterinarian can help immensely in managing the diet and other health concerns of your dog. You should consider involving one while planning for acquiring a new family member. Whether you adopt a big or small doggo, feed them only with premium-quality food to keep them happy and healthy all the time. Steer clear of the worst dry dog food , and get only the best dry dog food for your furry companion. If your furry buddy is still but a munchkin, consult our list of the best puppy food brands for nutrition ideas. In case your pooch is well past their prime, make sure to serve them only the best senior dry dog food to keep those frail bones, well, not so frail! Do remember that your adorable mixed pup carries the genes of their vastly different parents. They may inherit the palate of either, so you can offer them both the best dry dog food for small dogs and best large breed dry dog food and stick with the one they choose as their favorite! The period of physical activity engagement should be at least one hour. An appropriate blend of physical and mental stimulus for this mixed breed is necessary to avoid boredom and destructive behaviors. Some examples of possible physical activities for the Malamute German Shepherd mix are hiking, fetching, and running. Another consideration for the exercise period is the venue for the activities. I recommend a big area in a well-ventilated place for this crossbreed. The Kong Ball is a widely known toy for mental motivation. The use of this toy will aid in the digestion and mental health of the dog. It comes in different sizes, so you can get a suitable one for your dog. The German Shepherd Malamutes have a notable strength in biting. It is an under-stuffed toy that has a squeaker. It is made of a tough material, perfect for hours of rough play. They could become hardheaded as well. Your contribution to the morale boost will help the process. Below are some guidelines on training this mixed breed: Limit the Duration of the Training Sessions: A way to prevent misbehaviors during the training sessions is keeping the sessions short. A great crate has a comfortable bed and optimum ventilation. The period for crate training varies from 30 minutes for younger puppies to eight hours for adult Malamute German Shepherds. This training will benefit the mental health of the dog as well. It will help in having a calm disposition, particularly during travels, and it will also ward of possible separation anxiety. Positive Rewards-based System: This training method avoids the classical penalty techniques when dogs misbehave. You can have a box of treats ready for the training sessions. You should also provide cuddles and words of encouragement and approval when the dog abides by the rules. Every dog has a unique way of following the commands. If you want to learn more about the proper techniques, you may opt to ask for some advice from professional trainers. It is essential to provide positive words and gestures to make the dog feel at home. One phase of the training a dog called early socialization is necessary for developing healthy coping mechanisms to a new environment and people. Early socialization will hone the puppy and help in becoming mature. This will contribute to their potential in becoming therapy dogs, service dogs, or herders. The owners will hold the puppy each day until four weeks. The next phase continues until 16 weeks of age. This phase involves exposing the puppy to various kinds of animals, people, textures, fragrances, and sceneries. The above-mentioned tips on training may be applied during early socialization. The Malamute German Shepherd dogs are generally good with children. They will give affection and friendliness to the little ones. You still need to be careful with the child-dog interactions, especially when the dog is still young. You must also teach your children how to respect and play with the dog within respectable bounds. They were bred as working dogs, and their original purpose was to herd sheep. Alaskan Malamutes are one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. They were originally bred by the Mahlemut tribe of Alaska as sled dogs. While they are known today as one of the more popular designer breeds, these two breeds were not mixed until the early s, when people began to cross them for their working abilities. They are strong and athletic, with a muscular build. German Shepherds are inches tall at the shoulder. Alaskan Malamutes are one of the largest dog breeds, weighing in at pounds. Their typical height is inches at the shoulder. Malamutes are thickly built, with a broad chest and strong legs. They have a dense coat of fur that can be either short or long. The German Shepherd Malamute mix will usually take after its Alaskan Malamute parent in terms of size, but there is some variation. These dogs typically weigh between 50 and 85 pounds and stand inches tall at the shoulder. They may have the short coat and sleek build of the German Shepherd or the thick fur and broad chest of the Alaskan Malamute. Their coat colors are typically black, brown, or gray; however, they can also inherit the white markings of the German Shepherd. Like both of their parents, this mix has a strong and muscular build. They are a medium to large breed of dog that is very athletic. They will typically have almond-shaped eyes, and their ears may be pointed or floppy. Their tail is usually bushy and thick. These dogs are typically loyal, loving, and affectionate. They are also very protective of their family and may be suspicious of strangers. German Shepherds were originally bred as working dogs, so they are very intelligent and trainable. They are also known for being loyal and protective of their family. Alaskan Malamutes were originally bred as sled dogs, so they are very strong and athletic. However, they are also very affectionate with their family. This results in a mix that is very intelligent and trainable yet an independent thinker who can be stubborn at times. These dogs are also very affectionate with their family and make excellent protectors. However, they may be suspicious of strangers, so socialization is important from an early age. While this mix is an intelligent breed, poor breeding practices can result in your dog having behavioral issues as they age. They are also quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement. As with all dogs, early socialization is important for this mix. This will help them to be less suspicious of strangers and reduce the likelihood of aggressive or destructive behavior. This mix can be stubborn at times, so patience and consistency are important. They respond well to positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise. Puppy obedience training is a great way to socialize your puppy and start them on the path to good behavior. Exercise Needs This mix is a very active breed of dog that needs plenty of exercise. They are also very strong and have a lot of energy. These dogs need at least an hour of daily exercise and prefer to be outdoors. Daily walking or running is a great way to meet their exercise needs. German Shepherd Alaskan Malamute mixes also enjoy playing fetch, swimming, and hiking. They are also very intelligent and need mental stimulation, so interactive dog toys or puzzle games are a great way to keep them entertained. Overall, this mix is a great breed of dog for first-time owners or active people or families. They are a loving and affectionate breed, yet also make excellent protectors. They can be a great addition to any home with proper training and exercise. They also have an outer coat that is coarse and thick. A slicker brush or another shedding brush can help to remove loose hair and reduce shedding. Bathing These dogs also benefit from a soothing shampoo that is designed for dogs with sensitive skin. Additional grooming may be necessary if your dog has any mats or tangles in their coat. Ears This mix has erect ears that should be checked regularly for dirt or wax build-up. Cleaning with a cotton ball and dog-safe ear cleaner can help to prevent infections. Nails The nails of the German Shepherd Malamute mix grow quickly and should be trimmed regularly. Dental chews or bones can also help to keep their teeth clean and healthy. Overall, this mix is a high-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. However, regular brushing and occasional baths will help to keep their coat looking their best. However, like all breeds of dogs, they are susceptible to certain health conditions. Degenerative myelopathy is a degenerative disease of the spinal cord that can cause paralysis in the hind legs. Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the hip joint and can cause pain and lameness. Elbow dysplasia is a condition that affects the elbow joint and can also cause pain and lameness. All of these conditions can be debilitating and cause a decrease in quality of life. Fortunately, there are treatments available for all of the above-mentioned health problems. Overall, this mix is a generally healthy breed of dog. However, they are susceptible to certain health conditions that can be debilitating. Nutrition Requirements The German Shepherd Malamute mix is a high-energy breed of dog that requires a high-protein diet and is rich in fat. Dry dog food that is designed for large breeds is a great option for this breed. They should be fed between two to three times per day. A regular feeding schedule is important for this breed to help prevent bloat while maintaining suitable weight levels. Typical dog food brands to consider for this breed include Blue Buffalo, Wellness, and Taste of the Wild. Table scraps should be avoided as they can cause weight gain and digestive issues. Doggie treats, on the other hand, can be given in moderation. However, certain dogs may view this breed as a threat due to their size and energy level. This can be done by taking them to the dog park, doggie daycare, or dog walking. Due to their size, they are naturally more comfortable around larger dogs. With early training and socialization, however, this mix can integrate and socialize with most other dogs. However, their energy levels can be a bit much for smaller children. This breed is best suited for families with older children who can handle their high energy levels. Families with small children should consider another breed of dog that is more suitable for their lifestyle. Some examples of breeds that may be more suitable for families with small children include the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Drooling Levels This breed of dog is known to drool moderately. While they are not considered to be a slobbering breed, they may drool more when they are excited or hungry. They also require some maintenance when it comes to cleaning up drool, but it is not excessive. A damp cloth or baby wipes are generally all that is required to help to keep the area around their mouth clean. Barking Levels This breed of dog is known to bark moderately. They may bark when they are excited or when someone is at the door. However, with proper training, this behavior can be controlled. Barking collars are also an option but should only be used as a last resort. Positive reinforcement training is the best way to help control moderate barking in this breed of dog. Adaptability to Weather The German Shepherd Malamute mix is a breed of dog that is very adaptable to different weather conditions. They are comfortable in both hot and cold weather. They can typically handle temperatures as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can typically handle temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Overall, this mix is a very versatile breed that can adapt to most weather conditions. This is a relatively long lifespan for a large breed dog. While this breed is growing in popularity, it has not yet been officially recognized by the AKC. The AKC does not currently recognize any mixed breeds. However, they are working on a new pilot program that may eventually lead to AKC recognition for some mixed breeds, including this mixed breed. This price can vary depending on the breeder, the location, and the overall demand for the breed. Avoid buying a puppy from a pet store, as these puppies often come from puppy mills and may have health problems. This fee goes towards supporting the rescue organization and helps to cover the costs of caring for the dog. They are loyal, protective, and loving dogs that thrive on being close to their family. This breed requires a lot of exercise and training, but they are very intelligent dogs that are eager to please. This is a sled dog at its core, having great endurance and strength, which was a dog trait needed by ancestral owners in order to pull and carry heavy objects. He is sweet and family loving, loyal, and a highly capable watchdog. Read on to find out more. The German Shepherd Malamute mix is a hybrid dog. That is, a cross between the German Shepherd and the Alaskan Malamute. The Alaskan Malamute breed is believed to be descended from the dogs of hunters in the Paleolithic period. Roughly years ago, they crossed into North America from the land bridges of the Bering Strait. The dogs belonging to these people were domesticated from the wolf. Traditionally speaking, the Alaskan Malamute is part of the oldest sled dog breeds of the arctic. The German Shepherd breed was originally created for the purpose of herding sheep. These people combined various dog strains from the central and northern parts of Germany. This was in order to produce what would be known as the ancestors of the modern-day German Shepherd dog. The German Shepherd Malamute Mix vs. Purebred Debate Fans of mixed breed dogs argue that diversity makes them healthier than purebreds, with resulting fewer health problems. Those who are in favor of purebred dogs argue that they are healthier than mixes. They claim this due to better control over breeding, and therefore on the selection of genetic traits. This is a debate that is surely not going to be resolved anytime soon. They played the roles of two of the sled dogs, Buck and Shadow. The German Shepherd is quite the popular dog! Both parents have such similar features so you may see the input of both! Dogs of this mix have muscular bodies, possessing great strength and a sturdy frame. These dogs are well-suited for carrying significant weight and pulling sleds. They are 21 to 28 inches high, with a large weight range of 64 to pounds on average, corresponding to a medium and large size dog, respectively. They have a straight and medium-length double-coat consisting of a soft and dense undercoat and a thick, rough outer coat. Their coat colors are a combination of red, brown, gold, black, and grey. Their eyes are brown, hazel, or blue, and their nose is black or brown. German Shepherd Malamute Mix Temperament This is an affectionate and loyal dog, known for being very attached to their families. They inherit this quality from both parents. These dogs are wonderful around children, however, adult supervision around smaller children is recommended because of the large size of this dog. They make good guard dogs due to their ability to keep a vigilant eye on strangers. German Shepherds in particular tend to be cautious of strangers and sound the alarm when unfamiliar people arrive. This is a strong-willed dog with an independent streak. German Shepherds and Alaskan Malamutes are both loyal and loving dogs towards their families, and naturally the mix has this tendency as well. The exceptional intelligence and courage of the German Shepherd is a characteristic that may be passed on to the mix. So it is important to keep this dog active and mentally stimulated. Training Your German Shepherd Malamute mix Early socialization is important to curb any aggressive tendencies this dog may have towards strangers or other animals. The natural tendency of this dog towards independent and even stubborn behavior requires consistent and firm training from the puppy stage. Positive training methods are best. Due to the large size and physical attributes of this dog, he needs regular exercise, such as walking, hiking, or jogging to satisfy its high energy and endurance levels. At least an hour of physical activity a day is ideal. German Shepherd Malamute mix Health Both parent breeds have health issues. While the German Shepherd is an above average healthy dog with few health concerns, it does have a few health issues to watch for, such as degenerative myelopathy and elbow and hip dysplasia. These are common to the mix as well. Additional common health problems which the German Shepherd Malamute mix has are:.

Known for its natural beauty, vibrant downtown, and outdoor adventures, Boise City is a fantastic place to find and raise your new Boxer companion. Our goal is to connect you with the most exceptional Boxer breeders and puppies for sale in the region, ensuring you find the perfect furry friend for your family. Discover the dynamic dog-friendly scene in Boise City, featuring pet-friendly cafes, spacious dog parks, and engaging dog events. For those passionate about dog shows, events like the Boise Kennel Club Dog Show provide an opportunity to appreciate the beauty and grace of Boxer canines while connecting with fellow enthusiasts. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable Boxer breeders provide safe and affordable flight delivery, complete with a dedicated flight nanny who accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring their safety and comfort as they travel to their new home in Boise City. Many breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery, utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option allows your Boxer puppy to be transported directly to your door by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Begin your search for the perfect Boxer puppy on TrustedPuppies. We are down to only 3 puppies now - the other 6 have gone to their new homes - so only a few new numbers. We will be winding down this website soon, as our remaining puppies all leave for their new homes. Updated July 7, -- We added a puppies at play short video clip, and a picture gallery directly below. These puppies are so adorable! We also added one more puppy to our sold list - beautiful dark brindle Aero will be living with JH starting next Tuesday! The puppies continue their strong growth and are now about 10x their birth weight! Updated June 30, -- Each puppy has a new 6-week picture on the Meet the Puppies pages! Updated June 29, -- The Puppy Growth Chart now has their 6-week old weights, and all of these sweet and loving pups are showing very healthy gains! Also, a weight table and graph in pounds has been added, since the ounce readings are getting so big! Hunt on Tuesday, July 13 and are starting to go to their new forever homes! Ace — sold to KB, and the new name is Ryker for this strikingly handsome brindle boy! Aero — This handsome and playful dark brindle has been sold to JH! Alice — sold to SM, and the new nickname is Kat for this sweet and beautiful brindle girl! Angel — this sweet, adorable fawn has been sold to RW! Apollo — pending until July 16 to MM, who likes Apollo for the name of this athletic fawn boy! Archie — sold to EL, and the new name for this wonderful and loving brindle boy is Bodie! Arie — This beautiful, loving fawn has been sold to KM! Arlo — pending until July 16 to CM, who likes Arlo as the name but is still thinking about other names for this handsome brindle boy! Astro — This beautiful and loving brindle boy has been sold to MR! The puppies are full of energy! Here they are playing at 7 weeks - July 7, .Click the play arrow, lower left Here are a few pictures at 7 weeks - July 7, We are a family in Eagle, Idaho. These amazing puppies were born on May 18, .We are taking reservation deposits now, and they will be available for their forever homes at 8 weeks or older — Wednesday July 14, or later they are getting their 8 week puppy shots with Dr. Hunt on July .Sweet, loving, beautiful puppies from absolutely wonderful parents! Pile of Puppies - A Week Old Arie at 24 days old - June 10 Apollo - 30 days - June 16 Aero - 30 days - June 16 Ace at 6 weeks - June 30, Aero at 6 weeks - June 30, Alice at 6 weeks - June 30, Angel at 6 weeks - June 30, Apollo at 6 weeks - June 30, Archie at 6 weeks - June 30, Arie at 6 weeks - June 30, Arlo at 6 weeks - June 30, Astro at 6 weeks - June 30, Previous Next Here are a few short video clips taken when the puppies were 3 weeks old and starting to walk like toddlers — a little wobbly. One week later, at 4 weeks they were confident little runners! So fun to watch the rapid growth and development of these loving little pups. Mommy Meekah is teaching her 4-week old puppies how to play! This is the dry food we are feeding our wonderful puppies. The "Large Breed" means the adult weight is expected to be over 50 lbs. Our local stores are frequently sold out of this puppy food, but it is readily available online at Amazon, WalMart and many others. We also feed the wet food below. This is the wet canned food we use - we mix dry food, wet food, and water for feedings four times each day. The puppies have a bowl of water, and a bowl of dry food in their pen at all times. This canned food is also frequently sold out at our local stores, but is readily available by the case online.

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic German Sheprador Highlights The German Sheprador is a mixed breed dog. The main colors of German Shepradors are black, white, red, cream, blue, and grey. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. While they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job. Many German Shepradors absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also help to keep them cool during hot summer months. German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. Protective in nature, they will alert when strangers approach. They can easily become board, depressed, and frustrated, which will result in unwanted behaviors. German Sheprador History The German Sheprador dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing German Shepherds and Labradors in North America, possibly in the s. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems that affect many purebreds as well as create an ultimate family companion and watchdog. They continued to create German Shepradors as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the German Sheprador got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the dog for you. Check your local shelters, look up German Sheprador rescues, or check with breed-specific German Shepherd and Labrador rescues, as they sometimes help to re-home mixed breeds. German Sheprador Size As the German Sheprador is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between German Shepherd and Labrador parents, you can expect the German Sheprador to be on the large side. Most weigh in at 60 to 95 pounds and range in height from 20 to 27 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. German Sheprador Personality German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. However, once they befriend you, you have a friend for life. These pups hail from a line of two working parents. Their German Shepherd parents regularly work as military, police, and guard dogs, while their Labrador Retriever parents have jobs as hunting and guide dogs. German Shepradors like to work and need to have a job to do, whether big or small. Give them a sense of purpose, and this dog will earn their keep ten fold. They are highly trainable, and thrive on positive reenforcement. Do not leave them alone for long periods. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. German Shepradors are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one hour long walk per day with several shorter walks mixed in. Hiking and other adventurous activities are also recommended. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as this mixed breed is prone to tartar build-up. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility with its one-inch jumps. Crate and kennel training should start in puppyhood. German Sheprador Feeding An ideal German Sheprador diet should be formulated for a large breed with high energy. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. They usually have medium length, dense coats, and while they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job and bathing is recommended every few months with a mild shampoo. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Their double coats do shed quite a bit. You will definitely want a vacuum on hand. You will need it. Have you tried robot vacuums? See if the Eufy RoboVac is right for you! Their double coat gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather. Many of these dogs absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also helps to keep them cool during hot summer months. Keep in mind they are an indoor dog and need to live indoors. Like all dogs, however, German Shepradors need to be trained how to behave around children and vice versa. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Learn more about this awesome breed by reading about their parent breeds the German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever. German Sheprador Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for German Shepradors because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or Labrador Retriever breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. Characteristics Life Span As pointed out in the intro paragraph Shepradors generally live between 10 and 12 years, and sometimes they can reach the age of .However, they tend to be cautious with strangers, thanks to their German Shepherd ancestors. Caring Grooming: their shorthaired coat needs regular brushing: every day in the shedding season spring and autumn and three-to-five times a week in the rest of the year. Activity level With two highly energetic parent breeds, these dogs need an active life, so be ready to spend several hours a day keeping your pet busy. A Labrador Shepherd is generally 20 to 26 inches tall cm. Besides being active, you should have a large house, with a yard to provide her with enough space to move around. The Labrador Shepherd likes cold climates rather than hot weather, so be sure to have the ability to keep her comfortable all year. Further Reading Top 10 Dog Sports 2. They have it in their blood, and can successfully do police work, including searching, tracking, rescue, or guard work. If you care about your flowers and plants, you should also consider building an enclosure to keep your dog away from them. When you bring her inside, provide her with toys and games to keep her busy. She will enjoy any activity that stimulates her mind, such as dog puzzles or training sessions. The vacuum cleaner will be your new best friend German Shepherd Lab Mix is a double-coated breed, which means they have an undercoat next to the skin with longer hair over the top. Dogs from this crossbreed shed a lot, especially when the seasons change. If you want to keep her hair shiny and healthy, you should take time to brush her for at least minutes, three-to-five times a week. A consistent brushing schedule will help you reduce the amount of hair around the house. Besides brushing, you should include in your schedule: cleaning her ears once a week , brushing her teeth at least three times a week , and cleaning her eyes when needed. While this sounds like a lot, on the other hand, she only needs to take a bath about once a month. Exercising her on a concrete surface could help you keep her nails in good shape and reduce the number of visits to the vet. Always buy non-toxic toys, and substitute them with new ones as soon as they start deteriorating to avoid accidents. Your dog will need some strong toys, adapted to her age. Most hybrids tend to have a balanced personality, but as your puppy could be the result of more crosses , she may not inherit the exact characteristics you want in a dog; your future dog is prone to a series of health issues, caused by her bloodline. Obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases and diabetes are a lot more common with these dogs, but she could also develop epilepsy, skin allergies, bloat or cardiovascular diseases, these being common among Labradors and German Shepherds. From my point of view, most estimations work well for average dogs. You should buy your dog from a responsible breeder In most cases, a Labrador Shepherd has high potential and is a great candidate for the title of the perfect family dog. However, as mentioned before, hybrid dogs could have unpredictable coat colors, personalities, and health issues, so buying your puppy from a reliable source is as close as you can get to a clear image about your future dog. Generally, this hybrid can be 26 inches 66 cm tall and can weigh up to 88 pounds 40 kg. Taking into account the height and weight of its German Shepherd and Labrador mix parents, this crossbreed is a medium to a large-sized dog. So measurements can still vary more or less from that range. Good news for you! It will shower you with love and loyalty, and make you proud with its intelligence and playfulness. Do you think you can deal with this? Shepradors has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, but some of them can reach this age. We all want our pets to live longer and spend more years with us, so read this section to avoid and better prepare against genetic illnesses. Conclusion As you could see above, when buying a Sheprador you get the best of two great breeds. I think that this mix of German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever makes for the perfect family dog — kind, loyal, patient with children, and protective. However, they have endless energy and require a lot of time and attention, which makes them suitable for active families only. So are you ready to handle such a dog? Leave us a comment below and tell us about your personal experience with this unique crossbreed. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. But I adopted my little Hank recently and he seems both very playful and very cuddly. He likes to snuggle a lot but is very active too. Just wondering if I should expect him to go crazy one of these days? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. It is, therefore, no surprise that some breeders are starting to mix the two. Considering whether a German Shepherd Lab Mix is right for you? Read on for everything you need to know about this amazing mixed-breed dog. Lab German Shepherd Mix Overview Size — 22 to 25 inches tall and 50 to 80 pounds Coat — Medium length, double coat, color varies Shedding — Yes Temperament — Intelligent, active, and loyal, but can be wary of strangers Trainable — Highly, but prone to destructive behavior when bored Activity — Highly active needs two hours of activity per day Best For — Families and people with active lifestyles and lots of time to spend with them What is a German Shepherd Lab Mix? As these dogs are roughly the same size, the mother can be of either breed as long as she is larger than the father, to ensure against any difficulty in the birthing process. Sheprador Appearance As is the case for most mix-breed dogs, it is a bit of a gamble what you will get when these two come together. They might have the pointed ears of a German Shepherd or the floppy ears of a Labrador. There is nothing to do but wait and see. But luckily, both German Shepherds and Labradors are attractive dogs, so however they turn out they should be handsome. That said, we can make a few generalizations about the appearance of Shepradors. Size As both German Shepherds and Labradors are medium- to large-sized dogs, you can expect their mixed offspring to be the same. German Shepherds are the larger of the two and are usually between 50 and 90 pounds and 22 to 26 inches tall. Labradors are only a little bit smaller, at 50 to 80 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. So expect your German Shepherd Lab Mix to stand between 22 and 25 inches tall and weigh 50 to 80 pounds. You can narrow this range down a bit by looking at the size of the parents. Color The color of these gorgeous mixed-breed dogs is also highly variable, and you might end up with a pooch of a solid coat color, like Labs, or striking mixed coloring, like German Shepherds. A lot of this depends on the color of the Labrador parent, whether they are yellow, black, or chocolate. As a general rule, the darker the lab parent, the darker the coat of the pup. But you also get white German Shepherd Dogs, which can result in striking white Shepradors. Coat When it comes to coat length, you should expect in most cases that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will have a shorter coat, like that of a Labrador. This seems to be a dominant gene, and the vast majority of German Shepherd Lab Mixes end up with this type of coat. The dog will certainly have a double coat, as this is a feature of both breeds. The undercoat will be soft and fluffy, and the guard coat rough. This does mean that they shed—a lot. This is not the type of dog to have at home if anyone in the household suffers from allergies. Shepherd Lab Mix Puppy Lab German Shepherd Mix Character While temperament is again unpredictable with mix-breeds, both German Shepherds and Labradors are intelligent, active, and loyal dogs, so you can expect their offspring to share these traits. German Shepherds are very intelligent and have a natural protective instinct. They have a tendency to guard whatever they consider to be theirs. Labradors were originally bred as gun dogs, to retrieve the wild game of hunters. As such, they are very obedient and tend to be pleasers, and they like nothing more than spending time with their humans. As both breeds are intelligent and highly trainable, you can expect these characteristics to appear in a Sheprador. However, whether they will be a guard dog that can be aggressive with strangers, or a pleaser that is great with children, you will have to wait and see. While dogs are a mix of nature and nurture, if you want to take a Lab German Shepherd mix into a family home, or if you are a first-time dog owner, you will want to be careful about which individual dog you choose. Activity Levels However their personality turns out, you are going to have a dog with a lot of energy. These larger dogs that are used to working need around two hours of exercise each day. Their intelligence also means they get bored easily, and when they do get bored, they can have a tendency toward destructive behavior, which means digging and chewing. They do best with active owners with whom they can go walking, hiking, and running. Whether these dogs will like swimming is a coin toss. While Labradors love the water, German Shepherds are a bit more wary. But their size and adventurous nature mean they can be trained to love the water. So you have a good chance that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will be a swimmer. These dogs are loyal and love being around their humans. You will find them at their happiest and healthiest when you make them part of the family and shower them with love. Exercise Ideally, your Sheprador will need around two hours of exercise per day. This might be more than just a long walk, as their high energy levels mean they will like to run as well. They will enjoy tackling tough trails with you at their side, and the retriever nature of Labradors also means this breed is likely to enjoy a good game of fetch. Bear in mind that these dogs will need this level of exercise rain or shine, or they will become frustrated and start engaging in destructive behavior. This is not only bad for them in general, but can put excess pressure on their hips, which are also prone to issues. Intellectual Stimulation German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs are invariably highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train but also means they get bored very easily. When they do get bored, they are smart enough to find trouble, and you may come home to quite the scene. These dogs need to spend time with people to occupy their minds, and they also benefit from intellectually stimulating games. But expect them to make short work of these challenges, as they are chewers. You will be getting them new games quite often. Companionship Labradors need a lot of companionship, and this is a trait their offspring with German Shepherds are likely to share. Not only will they get bored and start acting up, but they can become depressed. Grooming Both German Shepherds and Labradors are shedders, so you can be sure their Sheprador offspring will be as well. This is just a fact of life with Shepradors. They will need to be brushed at least twice a week, and as often as once a day during the shedding seasons fall and spring. As well as brushing, invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner that has special functionality to help you pick up dog hair. These dogs are also likely to enjoy jumping up on the couch for a snuggle and a snooze. Invest in coverings and be sure your swanky vacuum cleaner has an attachment for upholstery. Their coat is not the only part of their grooming to attend to. You need to clean their teeth three times a week, with a brush or with dental treats. Finally, trim their nails every three months. This is both for their health and the health of your home, as their nails can damage your floors. For a big dog like this, it can be a good idea to take them to the vet to get their nails clipped. But if you feel confident to do this at home, check out our list of the best nail clippers. Diet German Shepherd Lab Mixes are big dogs that have lots of energy, but they also have a tendency toward obesity, which means they have to get their energy from good sources. This means high-quality protein and fats over carbohydrates. Preferably this means meals made from quality meats rather than meals or byproducts. When looking at the ingredient list, look for named meats at the first ingredient. Lab German Shepherd Mixes also benefit from novel proteins in their diet, as they can be prone to allergies. Dogs tend to develop allergies to the meats they eat the most, which often means beef and chicken. When they are puppies, Shepradors should be fed three times a day, and this should be cut down to two times a day from about four months of age. As a rule, dogs need 25 to 30 calories per pound of their weight per day, though you should watch their individual weight and energy level to see if you need to adjust their meals up or down. You can also check the label on your dog food to get a rough estimate of how much you should be feeding your Sheprador. Of course the amount will also vary depending on how often you exercise your dog. Known Health Problems While there is no limit to the number of health problems that a dog of any breed can develop, or they might not develop any at all, some dog breeds are more prone to some conditions than others. German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs have the potential to develop the health problems that are common in goth German Shepherds and Labradors. These include: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia — This is a condition where the hip and elbow joints do not develop normally and that can cause extreme pain and arthritis in later life. For more information check out our list of Glucosamine for Dogs. Progressive Retinal Atrophy — This is a group of degenerative diseases that affect the eyes and can lead to blindness. Shepradors are also prone to eat whatever is put in front of them, so you need to be conscious of what you are feeding them. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus — Poor diet can lead the stomach to dilate and expand, in turn leading to a twisting of the stomach that is life-threatening. It can block the flow of blood to the abdomen, leading to rupture of the stomach walls, and put pressure on the diaphragm thereby inhibiting the lungs. Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy — This is a condition that affects the spinal cord and leads to progressive weakness of the hind limbs, and eventually paralysis. Panosteitis — This is an inflammation of the outer surface of the long bones in the legs, resulting in a shifting lameness and making bones more susceptible to breaks. Allergies — Dogs can be born with allergies or develop them over time. Dogs often develop allergies if they eat the same foods consistently. Underactive Thyroid — The thyroid manages hormones, and an underactive thyroid is unable to secrete the required hormones. This can result in weight gain, lethargy, and cold intolerance. At this time, their energy levels will drop and they will need some changes in their diet and exercise. GSD Lab Mix Puppy But no matter how well trained they are, if they are left to get bored for too long, they can engage in some pretty destructive behavior, such as digging and chewing everything in sight. You have been forewarned. The highly assertive nature of German Shepherds means they do not respond well to domination training. They are likely to revolt when subjected to punishment. The best way to train a Labrador German Shepherd Mix is through positive reinforcement. Labradors are pleasers that love to make their humans happy. This means their offspring are also likely to feel the same way. So they will respond rapidly to training based on rewards for positive behavior. Deal with this behavior early, with specific training for dealing with children and strangers. They are very active and need lots of attention, so they need to be in households that support this. But they do great with adults and kids, so they can be a great family pet. Remember that German Shepherd Labrador Mixes need around two hours of exercise every day, so they need someone who can commit to that level of activity. But at the same time, it means they are the type of dog you can take on all of your adventures if you like hiking and trailing. They also need attention and stimulation throughout the day. If anyone in the house suffers with pet hair allergies, this is another reason Labrador German Shepherd Mixes are not the right dog for you, as they shed a lot. Consider something like a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle instead. Also, ask for medical records of the parents, to see what health conditions the pup might be prone to in the future. If you decide to adopt a mature dog, spend a bit of time with them to see what their temperament is like. History of the Breeds German Shepherd German Shepherds originated in Germany in the late 19th century as a sheep herding dog. But, because they are very intelligent, trainable, obedient, and strong, they have since moved into many different working roles including police, military, search and rescue, and disability assistance. German Shepherds can have a reputation for being aggressive, but they are more alert and wary than aggressive. They can have a tendency to become overprotective of family and territory. But if socialized and trained properly, this tendency should be highly manageable. German Shepherds are the second-most popular dog in the United States and the seventh-most popular dog in the United Kingdom. Labrador Labradors, also known as Labrador Retrievers, were initially used in Newfoundland as fishing dogs to retrieve fish that had gotten away. Because they are incredibly friendly but also intelligent and therefore easy to train, today Labradors are favored as disability assistance dogs, often helping individuals with blindness, ptsd, mobility issues and autism. Labradors are the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are intelligent and therefore easy to train, and loving and loyal, so they will quickly feel like part of the family. However, they do need a lot of exercise and attention, so adopting a Sheprador into your family is a commitment. German Shepherds have a reputation for being aggressive, but it is not really deserved. They are natural watchdogs and reserved around strangers, but they are not aggressive dogs that are likely to attack. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which means easy to control. Beagles, Poodles, Boxers, Golden Retrievers and Spaniels are all extremely friendly dogs as well, many specifically bred to be companions. They do best with active people or families who are full of people to love them. Like all dogs, they will do their best when they are cared for properly. This means training them appropriately, exercising them, keeping them mentally stimulated, and feeding them well. But these loyal pooches will repay your care and commitment with a lot of love and affection. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Mixed Breeds By Meg Marrs 11 min read March 13, 70 Comments K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. The German shepherd breed is generally considered one of the most intelligent, dedicated, loyal, and family orientated companions available in the doggy world. Throwing in a mix to this breed just strengthens and enhances these naturally appealing traits. Golden Shepherd German Shepherd x Golden Retriever Mix The golden shepherd is a golden-haired beauty that will definitely win your heart with those soulful eyes. This golden retriever and German shepherd mix is an affectionate sweetheart who thrives on one-on-one interaction with her owners and especially adores the tiny human variety. This makes the golden shepherd the perfect family-with-kids choice. Both retriever and shepherd parents love to eat, so make sure you keep this marvelous mix at a healthy weight. The best of both doggie worlds are all rolled up into this one adorable and energetic bundle of joy. This pug and shepherd breed is an extremely loyal companion, loves his human family, exhibits impressive intelligence, and serves as an alert guard dog. Labrashepherd German Shepherd x Labrador Mix The Labrashepherd also known as a Sheprador is a calm, loving and even-tempered animal with a touch of the shyness from the German shepherd parent shining through when he is presented with new situations. Labrador retrievers have a kind and happy demeanor which definitely shines through in this canine cross. This German shepherd Labrador retriever mix is gloriously beautiful and loves a good play session in the park. Siberian Shepherd or Gerberian Shepsky German Shepherd x Siberian Husky Mix A post shared by German Shepherd Husky Mixes germanshepherdhuskymixes This exquisitely handsome boy is a German shepherd husky mix that will have you falling over your feet when he looks at you with that one baby blue. Love at first sight for sure. And the bonus? He loves you just as fiercely. Make sure these energized pups have plenty of exercise, puzzle toys, and activities to provide mental stimulation. Shollie German Shepherd x Collie Mix A unique combination of the collie and German shepherd gives us this gorgeous designer breed. She is amazingly even-tempered temperament, very eager to learn, and easily trained through basic obedience training. Be prepared to groom the German shepherd collie mix every day though, as those locks are relatively high maintenance. Shepweiler or Rottweiler Shepherd German Shepherd x Rottweiler Mix Shepweilers are immensely protective of their owners, family, and surroundings and make excellent guard dogs. Well-muscled, protective dogs who can always be found at your side? Sounds good to me! The German shepherd poodle mix needs your constant companionship and will follow wherever you may lead. The poodle breed genes are relatively dominant in this dog, resulting in the somewhat curly fur coat. What a striking and intimidating doggo. This breed is a cross between a domesticated German shepherd and a genuine wolf. Please keep in mind that these animals are illegal to own in certain areas, so please research carefully to avoid any heartbreak should you not be able to keep him legally. Designer breeders for a cross as unique as this one can be challenging to come by. With a sensitive temperament and above average hearing, you have a guard dog of indisputable qualities. These dogs are natural hunters, so it will be wise to keep him separate from other small pets like cats, rabbits, and hamsters. He is super-friendly but an excellent protector. He does, however, require intensive training, as he loves a challenge and can often be considered a little stubborn. This dog is an interesting mix of German shepherd and the Alaskan malamute. This is one amazingly beautiful animal. They possess the best of both breeds in strength, loyalty, friendliness, and trainability. And such a cutie to boot! Almost like having a teenager in the house, these shepherd-type dogs will test your patience and push the boundaries, so training is vital. These shepherd pit sweeties are sure to appreciate a game of fetch with their favorite human! Innocence aside, the German shepherd pit bull mix is a powerful animal with a high energy level and training is thus non-negotiable. German shepherd pit bulls need a firm, strong, but loving owner and handler. New Shep German Shepherd x Newfoundland Mix A post shared by Sadie Sanderson resolutedogtraining This breed is an interesting mix of the Newfoundland and German shepherd, forming a giant powder-puff who loves water! Well, space of course! This is a giant dog and needs plenty of room to run off all that excess energy. This behemoth is a loyal, loving, and protective, yet intimidating watchdog, probably due to its sheer size. But be honest — what a cutie pie! But beware, do not leave this puppy to his own devices — you might not particularly like the end results! He craves constant attention and will happily be your permanent side-kick. These canine cuties would benefit from an active family. There you go German shepherd lovers and fans. Please leave a comment on what you think the best German shepherd mixed breed out there is, or share your own cross-breed companion that we might have missed! And, if you have your own GSD or GSD-mix at home, make sure to check out our guide to the best dog toys for german shepherds as well as our piece on the best dog food for german shepherds too! What are the specific guidelines for adopting a German Shepherd mix? Good breeders will only sell to a family with a yard and German shepherd experience, as German shepherd mixes need plenty of space for these dogs to run around freely to get exercise. German shepherd mixes as well as purebred German shepherds should also be owner primarily by those who have experience with the breed, as German shepherds are naturally prone to anxiety and need an experienced, confident handler. The breeder should meet our breeder checklist, have been in business for several years, and their puppies should be well socialized. How much does it cost to adopt a German shepherd mix? Are there any health issues associated with German shepherd mixes? If a German shepherd mix is not from a good breeder, then there may be health problems. German shepherds are prone to a number of different genetic health conditions. The most common health concerns include hip, elbow, and joint dysplasia, cancer, epilepsy, hip dysplasia, narcolepsy, and eye problems. Are German shepherd mixes active? While canine crosses can take on any combination of traits from either of their pooch parents, German shepherds require plenty of daily exercise. GSDs have a high activity level and need to be kept busy mentally and physically. Not all German shepherd mixes will need vigorous exercise per day, but you should have the capacity to take on an active furry friend just in case. What is a German Shepherd mix? A German shepherd mix is a breed resulting from the combination of the German shepherd with other popular dog breeds. These dogs are medium to large in size, and can vary in appearance based on what breeds they inherit traits from. German shepherd mixes do not always look entirely like the German shepherd, as they could also take after their other dog breed parents. How should you train a German shepherd mix? The best way to approach training a German shepherd mix is to provide lots of training sessions focused on positive reinforcement. These pups can be fairly sensitive and eager to please. Thankfully, most GSD mixes are super smart and can master just about any trick with a little time and practice. Some of the best German shepherd mixes around. Which one was your favorite? Have you ever met any of these cuties in real life? Let us know in the comments below! Like it? Share it! German Shepherd Malamute Mix Here are five ways to tell what your German Shepherd is mixed with: Study several breeds and make observations. What does the dog look like? Look for coat characteristics, muzzle shape, ear types, tail shape, and body type, unlike those of the purebred German Shepherd ex: floppy ears, a white coat, etc. Compare your observations to the characteristics of other breeds. Monitor behavior. Although training will have a lot to do with how the dog behaves, natural instincts are often stronger than training. How does the dog behave when alone? How does it behave with strangers and other dogs? DNA testing. This option is the simplest and most accurate way to gain this important breed information. Talk with breeders. Although breeders are primarily concerned with their respective breeds, they often also have a wealth of knowledge. You might not know where that non-bushy tail comes from, but a career breeder just might. Ask a veterinarian. Few people will know various dog behaviors, traits, and abilities better than a veterinarian. At the same time, many can look at a dog and guess the breed mix with a large degree of accuracy. German Shepherds have long, slender noses, while Pugs have short blunt noses. Though a drastic difference, noting the size of the nose helps determine the natural instinct of the dog. For example, was he born to hunt and track or to fight? The muzzle shape provides a clue. Is it floppy? Canines with dropped ears were bred to hunt because the dropped shape helps block out distractions, leaving them to concentrate on smell. A German Shepherd will normally have pointed ears that stand up. Body shape. For example, many miniature dogs were bred with dwarfism traits. Likewise, if a German Shepherd was bred with a St. Tail length and shape. Most German Shepherd mixes will have long tails, whereas Pugs have short, curly tails. The tail does more than tell us if the doggo is happy. Identifying the breed by its tail can also help owners determine if they will face future back problems. Why Should I Know the Mix? And, regardless of heritage, love trumps all. The first meeting was love at first sight, and that made the decision final. In some cases, there will be one bloodline, and there may also be two. In the final category, the lineage may contain many mixes. Purebred vs. Crossbred vs. Mongrel Shepsky A purebred is a dog with parents and an ancestral line that contains only dogs of the same breed. This type of dog is often sought after because owners can depend on the lineage to predict its size, health, and overall disposition. A crossbreed is the result of intentional breeding. Different purebreds are selected to create a different breed, with the desire to get the best traits of both breeds. Again, these dogs are sought after because of the predictable outcomes in size, health, and disposition. The sire and the dam are often mixed breeds, so the lineage is almost impossible to trace with any accuracy without DNA testing. However, educated guesses can be relatively successful. In the case of a GSD with questionable genetics, a German Shepherd may be a few generations back in the bloodline. This knowledge helps owners make wise decisions for the dog in healthcare, food, and training. Breed Specific Healthcare The likely most important reason to seek what a German Shepherd — or any dog, for that matter — is mixed with is veterinary care. Many purebreds are susceptible to known ailments. German Shepherds, for example, are predisposed to hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint ball and socket separate. Therefore, if the dog is mixed with a Labrador, another breed prone to this condition, there may be a higher risk for joint issues later on. Being prone to develop a certain health condition is not a reason to avoid the breed. But rather, knowing that a specific condition is common to particular breeds is necessary to arm the owner with the knowledge to help the pet avoid the condition. This knowledge includes dietary needs, supplements and vitamins to use, and vet care to seek. According to research, mixed breeds are less vulnerable to inherited diseases but stronger carriers. In contrast, purebred dogs have fewer disease genes but are more susceptible to the same diseases. Some even choose to feed a homemade diet. Either way, foods for specific breeds are often unnecessary. When considering food brands, many owners feed their dogs based only on life stages: puppy, adult, and senior. For example, a German Shepherd is a highly active dog that will require a different nutritional plan than a Pug. However, if the breeds are crossed, the resulting Shug will have different nutritional needs than either parent. Regardless of the breed, though, the dog will let you know if its nutritional needs are being met. Food is also important when thinking about health and training, as German Shepherds are prone to many conditions due to their size. Keeping them on a balanced diet that helps them maintain a healthy weight is crucial to avoiding conditions like hip dysplasia. In the instance of hip dysplasia, starting the dog on a Glucosamine Chondroitin food supplement might keep either the condition or the symptoms at bay so you can avoid medicine. According to the AKC, depending on the breed mix and health concerns, you should also give your dog fish oil such as the Zesty Paws Omega Bites check price on Amazon because this supplement helps alleviate skin allergies. German Shepherds are often mixed with Collies. Since both breeds are prone to digestive issues, another supplement to consider is a probiotic. For example, a German Shepherd may require more training in socialization than a Labrador will due to breeding. For example, German Shepherds are bred for protection, at least in part, so they need training that addresses their sometimes aggressive instinct toward new dogs and visitors. On the other hand, Labradors are typically happy, playful, and friendly, so their socialization training will not combat possible aggression but rather keep them from being afraid of new things. Vet Care All dogs need vet care. In addition to yearly vaccines for rabies and other conditions, they need to be checked for parasites and undetected health conditions. But some breeds need more frequent veterinary care to keep them healthy, especially if they reach their senior years earlier. People often adopt dogs from the local shelter, which is an incredibly loving thing to do that they certainly appreciate. But this adoption makes it difficult to determine what the pet is mixed with. Their mixed breeding also offers unique coats, body shapes, and behaviors that only nature can provide. If the desired dog is part German Shepherd, the chances are high that the local shelter will have several options. While a DNA test may not be available, there are ways to make an educated guess. Before leaving for the shelter, study various breeds and start making observations at the kennel gate. Key Takeaways Knowing what a German Shepherd is mixed with is a good foundation for caring for one. Whether the dog is purebred, crossbred, or mixed, knowing his genetics will help you decide on the food, healthcare, and training that will keep you both happy and healthy for many years to come. Related Posts You May Like:.

We have answers. What class of dog are Golden Retriever puppies for sale near Kingsport? Golden Retrievers are classified as sporting dogs. They are well known for their intelligence, loyalty, and calm demeanor, making them great companion dogs. They are very good with people and very obedient, which makes them wonderful family pets. They are also very good at retrieving, swimming, and being sent on long distance runs. In addition, they are well-known for being very simple to train, which is why they are popular amongst those who are looking for an all-around great family dog. Are Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Kingsport non-shedding? No, Golden Retrievers are not non-shedding dogs. Shedding is a normal, healthy process for most breeds, as the dead hair and skin cells are replaced with new growth. While shedding can be minimized with proper grooming and nutrition, it is important to remember that all dogs will shed at least a small amount. This is especially true for Golden Retrievers, who have a thick double coat that requires regular brushing and grooming to keep it healthy and to minimize the amount of shedding. How do I know what not to feed Kingsport Golden Retriever puppies for sale? To be sure you're feeding your Golden Retriever the right nutrition, it is important to know what not to feed them. Generally, a Golden Retriever should avoid anything with too much salt, sugar, or fat, as this can lead to health concerns. Grapes, onions, garlic, and certain types of nuts such as walnuts, macadamia nuts, and chestnuts should be avoided. Do Golden Retriever puppies in Kingsport have any kind of special requirements? Golden Retrievers generally do require some special care and attention in order to stay healthy and happy. Given their thick, luscious coat, they need to be brushed daily to prevent tangles and irritation. Additionally, they need regular exercise as Golden Retrievers can become hyperactive and destructive without sufficient physical activity. Grooming the ears and trimming the nails is also important, as is feeding them a balanced diet that provides enough protein for their level of activity. Are Golden Retrievers for sale in Kingsport considered small dogs? Golden Retrievers are not typically described as small dogs. Generally, they are considered medium-sized dogs, usually weighing between 55 and 75 lbs and standing at inches in height, depending on their gender. They typically have a medium-length coat, with feathering on their legs, chest, and underside and a traditionally elegant head shape and floppy ears. Although there can be slight variations in size, the Golden Retriever is not considered a small breed. How many minutes per day should I walk Golden Retriever puppies near Kingsport? Walking your Golden Retriever is a great way to ensure your pup stays healthy and happy. The amount of minutes you should be walking your pup each day depends on a few factors, including their age, size, and activity level. Generally speaking, a younger, more active Golden Retriever should be getting a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise each day. An older pup who is quieter may need slightly less. Do Golden Retrievers in Kingsport get along with kids? Yes, Golden Retrievers get along famously with kids. The breed loves noise and excitement, and typically, they do not bark excessively, making them a great addition to households with children. Is training Kingsport Golden Retrievers for sale easy? Training a Golden Retriever can be both easy and challenging. While they are generally considered to be intelligent and loyal, they do require consistent and patient training. Golden Retrievers tend to quickly learn new techniques, as long as consistency and time are given. For owners who invest in consistent training, the rewards are great. Golden Retrievers are very eager to learn and please their owners, but much like any obedient pet, they require a degree of discipline. With dedication, the basics of basic obedience and commands can easily be realized. Recognized for attention to detail and an excellent customer experience every time. Fenced-in backyards or secluded, open fields tend to give them enough. They started with two boys, Ryan and Wacey, then a. They began as a mix of Retrievers, Spaniels, and Red Setter. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we. We encourage all prospective puppy owners to do their research and be prepared with questions to ask the breeder. Welcome to Clarksville Golden Retrievers We are a family run business that has the privilege of raising one of America's most popular family pets. I have a beautiful litter of golden retriever females available. Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Chattanooga, TN from …. Text us at XXXX for more info please. She will come prespoiled and ready to. Going home is always bittersweet! The average price for a Golden Retriever puppy in Tennessee varies depending on the breeder. An iconic American dog, the Golden Retriever is playful and hard-working. TN for sale "golden retriever". Find Golden Retriever puppies for sale. We are hobby breeders in East Tennessee, who strive to be reputable breeders, by testing parents and selling healthy puppies. We strive to provide you with a healthy, happy pet that will bring years of enjoyment to your family. Charming Acres Puppies 5. Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Chattanooga, TN. Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Jackson, TN. Specializing in dark red Golden Retrievers, they are breeding only top-quality championship bloodlines from hunting and field trial dogs. We recommend speaking directly with your breeder to get a better idea of their price range. Golden Retrievers for Sale in. All have been Vet checked and first shots. McMinnville Dogs Classifieds. She will come prespoiled and ready to love! Golden Retriever Puppies For Sale. Home Available puppies health guarantee Our Boys our girls Previous pups. Goldens are very loyal, and need a whole lot of time to run around and play. Find Golden Retriever dogs and puppies from Tennessee breeders. Breed: Golden. Breed: Golden Retriever. Subscribe to get information on existing puppies for sale, and Golden retriever litters in the future! Tennessee, United States. Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Chattanooga, TN from trusted. Golden Retriever. Golden Retrievers for Sale in Memphis. English Golden Retrievers Knoxville, Tennessee situated on over acres of beautiful farm land overlooking House and Clinch Mountains. Lots and lots of pictures of past puppies! Breeders of top quality Golden Retrievers located in Nashville, Tennessee. Mountain Laurel Goldens European golden retrievers puppies for sale!! Show More About Us Experienced Breeders Golden retrievers are such a wonderful breed, sweet with children and with small pets. Golden Retriever Puppies for sale in Middle Tennessee. Search for a Golden Retriever puppy or dog. Specializing in red and dark red Goldens with a strong hunting and field trail heritage. Golden Retrievers for Sale in Johnson City. Find Golden Retriever puppies for saleNear Tennessee. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Nashville, TN. She will come prespoiled and ready to love! If interested text me at .Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Nashville, TN from trusted. They began as a mix of Retrievers, Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Tennessee from trusted. Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Memphis, TN from trusted. We are located in East. Available Puppies For Sale Tennessee. Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Tennessee from trusted …. Since their beautiful Tennessee wedding in , Steve and Renee Russell have been raising kids, working dogs and loving both. They had bloodhounds and Australian Shepherds and most recently, have fallen in love with Golden Retrievers. Best Golden Retriever Breeders in Tennessee 1. Cold Spring Mountain Retrievers 9. Read More Golden Girls The wonderful mothers of our adorable puppies. These pups generally require a living space that has a safe area for them to run free in. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Knoxville, TN from trusted. Has had her wellness check at the veterinarian and is current on vaccinations. Find dogs, puppies, and canine of all breeds for adoption near McMinnville TN. Mom is embark clear and dad is clear by parantage. Use the search tool below to browse adoptable Golden Retriever puppies and adult Golden Retriever in Humboldt, Tennessee. They started with two boys, Ryan and Wacey, then a girl, Weatherly. Golden Retriever puppies and dogs in Ripley, Tennessee. The puppies will have the first vaccine, deworming, and microchip. Also adventurous for hiking, biking, and swimming. Midsouth Puppies of Tennessee is your breeder of quality! Posted on April 27, April 27, .We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Golden Retriever Puppies for Sale in Tennessee. Remember, cheaper doesn't mean better, or even comparable! Welcome to Young Ridge Goldens Kennels. It's also free to list your available puppies and litters on our site. Make sure to do research on th MORE. As such they are well socialized to the cats as well as non-mom adults. Some breeders may charge more than others, and there may be a variety of reasons why. One of the girls has had a litter of 11 puppies and due in heat in a couple of months. Young Ridge Goldens Kennels .She is seven weeks old and current on shots and wormings. Learn more puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location. Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Jackson, TN from trusted. Use the search tool below to browse adoptable Golden Retriever puppies and adult Golden Retriever in Humboldt, Golden Retriever puppies and dogs in Humboldt, Tennessee. We are located in Middle Tennessee south of Nashville about an hour and north of. He is black with white paws and chest. Dogs for Sale in Cleveland, TN. She is ready to go to a new home. Chichester, New Hampshire: pregnant dogs and cats, motherless kittens, horses and animals of agriculture, exotic birds and rept. However, free dogs and puppies are a rarity as shelters usually charge a small adoption fee to cover their expenses. Puppies and Dogs near you in Tennessee. Our puppies are AKC registered, vet checked, and come with a 1 year health guarantee that covers genetic health issues that are life-threatening. Dogs in Murfreesboro Tennessee. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Lebanon, Tennessee Breeding quality gun dogs for over 20 years. These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Nashville, Tennessee. All our babies are Vet checked and come with all medical…. Dogs and Puppies, Goldendoodle Goldendoodle puppies ready for their new homes. Puppies for Sale in Tennessee. Search for dogs for adoption at shelters near Tennessee, TN. Labrador Retriever Puppies. If you are unable to find your puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Dogs for Adoption. He will make the perfect little snuggle buddy and join you on all your adventures. Baby Yorkie Puppies For Sale. Don't miss what's happening in your neighborhood. That is the only application we accept. It's easy and free! She has had 2 beautiful litters. He gets a lot of attention from my young daughter and is very well loved. Puppies for Sale in Tennessee by Uptown Puppies. We have toy and teacup sizes available, From 8- 12 weeks of age. Tags: Family dog Herder pet puppy livestock. He is playful and loves to retrive tennis balls. Should be about lbs when full-grown. Puppies for Sale from Memphis, Tennessee Breeders. Tennessee Dogs and Puppies Classifieds Hoobly. The average price for a Yorkie puppy in Tennessee can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the breeder that you choose and the quality and age of the puppy. Nashville, Tennessee: Dogs. Find and adopt a pet on Petfinder today. Pets for Adoption at Middle Tennessee Treasures, in. To learn more about each adoptable dog, click on the "i" icon for fast facts, or their photo or name for full details. Adopt a puppy or dog in Memphis, Tennessee Shelters and rescues in Memphis, Tennessee Search for a puppy or dog Learn more about dog breeds Puppies and dogs in nearby cities Adopt a dog in Memphis, Tennessee These adorable dogs are available for adoption in Memphis, Tennessee. We do make some exceptions for some of our older dogs. Puppies for Sale in Nashville, Tennessee. Find your puppy for sale in Tennessee Puppies. Bulldog Breeding Excellence. Great personality but is a… View Details. Dogs in Maryville Tennessee. Dogs for Sale in Clarksville, TN. Puppies for Sale from Tennessee Breeders. All our babies are Vet checked and come with all medical. Dogs for Sale in Kingsport, TN. All our bulldogs are AKC registered, health, and vet checked. Alabama Boston Terrier Rescue, Inc. Dogs for Sale in Tennessee. Dogs in Cookeville Tennessee. All Breeds Tennessee If you haven't settled on a particular breed you can find all the breeds of puppies and dogs we have for sale or adoption near Tennessee in these listings. She is very playful, smart and super sweet. Dogs in Memphis Tennessee. If you are unable to find your puppy in our. Dogs in Johnson City Tennessee. And yes, I am even cuter in person, I am probably the cutest puppy you will ever see! Why look… View Details. Dogs for Sale in Jackson, TN. Dogs Classifieds in the Southeast US. Dogs for Sale in Columbia, TN. Puppies for sale from dog breeders near Chattanooga, Tennessee. For more information contact me at XXXX! Mom and dad both good squirrel dogs. Dogs for Sale in Cookeville, TN. She is not a destructive puppy and is found well with her house training. Mama is a stylish blonde akc cocker spaniel. She is very well behaved and calm. Advertise your. He is a sable and white with a solid face. She has been in a cat home and does great. Born on February 28th, ! Alec will be on a regular deworming schedule and co… more. He is up to date on shots and dewormer. Find your puppy for sale in Tennessee. Why look View. Come meet them and take home your forever friend! This litter is stunning. Babies are pre spoiled and well socialized. Our puppies are raised in a safe and loving environment by our passionate and caring staff. Browse these Pointer rescues and shelters below. Why buy a puppy for sale if you can adopt and save a life? Look at pictures of puppies in Kingsport who. Learn more Breed standard View non-standard puppies available. Here are a few organizations closest to you: Shelter .Their brains, size, and loyalty make them ideal police and service dogs, but they also make great friends. To see more adoptable Weimaraners in Kingsport, Tennessee, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria! Partnered with licensed, reputable breeders, we offer sweet, happy, and healthy Cavalier King Charles puppies for sale near the Kingsport area. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Empire Dobermans Doberman Puppies. There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Australian Shepherd puppies in Kingsport, Tennessee. Siberian husky dogs puppies for sale. Make sure you are not only choosing the right breed for you, but also that you're getting it from the right individual. Adopt yours from our reputable breeders at Premier Pups. We have high expectations for our pups and strive to put each one into a loving family. These pups are in Kingsport, Tennessee too! Below are our newest added Pointers available for adoption in Kingsport, Tennessee. On Good Dog today, Pug puppies. Kingsport Find Pug puppies for sale Near Kingsport, TN Smart and playful with a short muzzle and expressive eyes, the Pug's low-key lifestyle makes them perfect city dogs. Schnauzer Giant puppies and dogs in Kingsport, Tennessee. Below are our newest added Vizslas available for adoption in Kingsport, Tennessee. Look at pictures of puppies in Kingsport who need a home. Here, at Premier Pups, our Mini Bernedoodles are happy, healthy, and ready to embark on a life-long journey with their new families. I have all up to date records for h. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Cocker Spaniel puppies in Kingsport, Tennessee. There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Pointer puppies in Kingsport, Tennessee. Dachshunds for Sale in Kingsport, TN. Clarksville, TN AnimalControl mcgtn. Doing great on puppy pad training. The Maltese can serve as a lapdog but it loves to play with humans of all ages. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Kingsport, TN from trusted …. Americanlisted has classifieds in Kingsport, Tennessee for dogs and cats. Weimaraner puppies and dogs in Kingsport, Tennessee. Huskies are our passion and we take pride in raising well tempered, healthy, and well bred puppies. Find your puppy for sale in Kingsport, TN Puppies. Dogs in Kingsport Tennessee. These puppies are raised with love and cared for by the best in the business. And yes, I am even cuter in person, I am probably the cutest puppy you will ever see! Why look… View Details. Socialized with kids and adults. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help. Use the search tool below to browse adoptable Weimaraner puppies and adult Weimaraner in Kingsport, Tennessee. Dalmatian puppies and dogs in Kingsport, Tennessee. Kingsport Find Pomeranian puppies for sale Near Kingsport, TN Descendent of large sled dogs, the Pomeranian is a sociable dog with a lush coat of hair. Here are a few organizations closest to you:. Giant Schnauzer Puppies for Sale. Don't miss what's happening in your neighborhood. Australian Shepherd Puppies for Sale. Ultra-petite, the Pomeranian is active, easy to train and enjoys the outdoors, but also loves to curl up on the couch. How much do Pug puppies cost in Kingsport, TN? Prices for Pug puppies for sale in Kingsport, TN vary by breeder and individual puppy. Premier Pups has got you covered. Why look…. Adopt a Vizsla near you Vizsla in cities near Kingsport, Tennessee Other pups in Kingsport, Tennessee Search for a Vizsla puppy or dog near you Browse Vizsla puppies and dogs in nearby cities Browse related breeds in Kingsport, Tennessee Vizsla shelters and rescues in Kingsport, Tennessee Learn more about adopting a Vizsla puppy or dog. Puppies for Sale in Kingsport Tennessee. Search for a Weimaraner puppy or dog. All of our Dobermans live in the house with us, they ARE family. We were established in with Roxy Diamond. Try a different search below! Yorkshire Terrier puppies for sale in Kingsport, TN from trusted. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Premier Pups has you covered. Pug puppies for sale in Kingsport, TN from trusted breeders. Mastiff puppies and dogs in nearby cities. Below are our newest added Weimaraners available for adoption in Kingsport, Tennessee. Miniature Schnauzer puppies for sale in Kingsport, TN from …. Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Kingsport, TN. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Kingsport, TN from. Adopt a Canaan Dog near you in Kingsport, Tennessee We don't see any Canaan Dogs available for adoption right now, but new adoptable pets are added every day. He is black with white paws and chest. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to. Mom weighs 4 pounds and dad 3 pounds .Kingsport, TN. Browse these Australian Shepherd rescues and shelters below. Here are a few organizations closest to you: Rescue .Looking for a Schnauzer Giant puppy or dog in Kingsport, Tennessee? Adopt a Pet can help you find an adorable Schnauzer Giant near you. To see more adoptable Pointers in Kingsport, Tennessee, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria! Tate Potato German Shorthaired Pointer. Dalmatian puppies and dogs in nearby cities. Location: Kingsport, TN .Because all breeding programs are different, you may find dogs for sale outside that price range. The typical price for Miniature Schnauzer puppies for sale in Kingsport, TN may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy. Blue Ridge Boston Terriers. Learn more about how Purina and Petfinder are making a difference together. He is a sable and white with a solid face. You can see more pictures of Evora and other puppies available on our web site. East Tennessee. Dogs for Sale in Kingsport, Tennessee. We recommend speaking directly with your breeder to get a better idea of their price range. The Maltese can serve as a lapdog but it loves. Browse these Cocker Spaniel rescues and shelters below. Reply to Seller View pictures. Mastiff puppies and dogs in Kingsport, Tennessee. We stand by our Premier Promise and offer a year health guarantee for all our Cavaliers. On average, Miniature Schnauzer puppies. Looking for a gorgeous Mini Bernedoodle puppy for sale near Kingsport, Tennessee? You've come to the right place. She is a tiny teacup sized tri color smooth coat chihuahua. Once the companions of Chinese royalty, their distinct faces are complemented by sweet demeanors. What is the average size range of German. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Kingsport, TN from trusted breeders. To see more adoptable Vizslas in Kingsport, Tennessee, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria! Premier Pups is committed to providing four-legged dog lovers with happy, healthy Yorkshire Terrier puppies for sale near Kingsport, Tennessee. Kennel Name: Blue Ridge Boston. Cocker Spaniel Puppies for Sale. At Premier Pups, we are a family of four-legged dog lovers that raises happy and healthy Maltese puppies. Save this search and we'll notify you when they are.

The perfect combination! But how often should you bathe a Labradoodle, anyway? And how to do it? First of all, regular grooming and brushing is crucial to prevent matting and tangling, which can quickly turn into a matted mess if left unattended. And believe us, no one wants to deal with a miserably tangled pup! Speaking of bathtime, regular bathing helps to remove dirt, debris, and any lingering odors that your pup may have picked up on their outdoor romps. With a little TLC and some time spent in the tub, your Labradoodle will smell fresh, which is obviously nice for both of you. Just make sure to use a dog shampoo, as human shampoos can strip their skin of precious oils and cause unwanted skin irritations. Did you know that you can use special shampoos for targeted care? So grab that brush, fill up the tub, and show your pup some grooming love today! Labradoodles come in either curly, wavy, or straight coats, depending on which genetics they inherit from each of their purebred parents. Curly coats tend to trap in dirt, debris, and loose dog hair, which can quickly lead to stubborn knots and tangles inside the fur. Then we have the wavy combination coat, that may shed some hair, depending on whether they have an undercoat or not. These pups usually come with a double coat, which means that some shedding may be present. Fortunately, you can keep this at a minimum by regularly brushing your Labradoodle. It goes without saying that Labradoodles really shine with their long and fluffy coats, giving them that signature Doodle look. However, long hair also requires more brushing and bathing. This helps prevent matting, but also get rid of any build-up dirt, dander, loose dog hair, and debris from the coat. On the other hand, shorter hair is usually easier to manage and maintain. And for other pups, washing them every two months is perfectly enough! But if your Labradoodle struggles with skin dryness or irritations, then bathing them too often could lead to more problems down the line. We recommend you start bathing your Labradoodle as soon as possible. In fact, many reputable Labradoodle breeders already start basic grooming, such as brushing, nail trimming, and bathing even before adoption. Just make sure you continue with this at home so that your pooch can get used to it. For this step, we recommend you also get a dog detangler spray , which will help you get the job done much faster. The next logical question would be — how to brush a Labradoodle? First, you want to run your fingers through all areas of the fur. If you find any knots, first work on each of them individually with a sturdy metal comb. Make sure you never pull on the hair! Start from the feet and paws, moving your way up towards the belly and neck, and finish with the back. Be sure to start brushing from the tip of the hair and then moving up towards the root to prevent any tangles getting worse. One of our favorite methods for Doodles is line brushing — say goodbye to any knots and tangles! Start out by putting a little bit of warm water in the bottom of your bathtub so that your pup can just stand in it. You might even want to let them sniff and inspect it first. If your Dood seems all good, you can turn on the showerhead while petting them at the same time. Having a few tasty treats at hand can also be helpful here! For the ears, we recommend putting cotton balls right at the opening of the ear canals. This will prevent any water from getting into the ears. Make sure that the water temperature is just right — not too hot and not too cold. By thoroughly rinsing the coat beforehand, the shampoo can also lather up nice and easy. Apply a generous amount of your chosen dog shampoo and lather it up all over the coat. Make sure you properly massage the shampoo into the fur so that you can get all areas clean. Also, be mindful of areas like the armpits and groin, as some people tend to overlook them. This is also a great opportunity for you to check for any lumps and bumps under the skin. Again, make sure you use warm water and thoroughly rinse off all areas of the fur, especially armpits and groin, where the suds tend to collect. For obvious reasons, we recommend a tearless dog shampoo for the facial area. You might want to pay some extra attention to areas that tend to get dirty, such as the muzzle and beard. Since the face can be a bit tricky, it might take some time to thoroughly rinse off all that shampoo. Apply a decent amount of conditioner with your hands all over the fur. Although conditioning the head and face is optional, it is recommended for curly-coated Labradoodles. This way, the product gets into all areas of the fur, but also prevents tangling. Again, pay extra attention to those hard-to-reach areas that we tend to overlook. Before you jump in with a towel, let your pooch shake all that excess water off themself. Then, you can gently squeeze out any excess water from areas with longer hair with your hands. Then, take your towel and start gently, yet firmly patting your Labradoodle dry all over. You should start with the lowest power and temperature settings. If necessary, you can gradually increase the settings, but the temperature should never get too hot. Also, keep in mind that some pups can get scared of noisy blow dryers. You can also use a leave-in dog conditioner or a dog detangler spray and brush it through the fur to keep the coat tangle-free and luscious for longer. We recommend you use a specially formulated dog ear cleaner for this step, as Labradoodles and other Poodle mixes are prone to ear infections due to the restricted air flow inside their ears. It goes without saying that you should never use a human shampoo on your pooch, as it could lead to skin irritations, dryness, and a host of other issues. We recommend you check out our in-depth guide on the best shampoos for Labradoodles , where we have some excellent recommendations for different skin and coat concerns. Labradoodles need to be bathed every two to three weeks. This will help clean their fur and allow you to check their skin. Dogs can get dirty really easily, and they need regular grooming to remove dirt and dust from their coats. Bathing your Labradoodle is not only essential to keep them clean and healthy, it helps to prevent hair knots and matting As a single coated and low shedding breed, Labradoodles will require deep rinsing when they are bathed. A small Doodle puppy having a bath Regular brushing, bathing, and groomings are all different things. Grooms include the trimming of the fur, and is usually done together with bathing or directly before. Groom every weeks for most Labradoodle coats Bathing helps with both aesthetics, coat health, and prevention of skin conditions Brushing for a wavy or curly coat LAbradoodle should be at least every few days the more the merrier If you own a straight coat Labradoodle shedding you should consider how much shedding is happening. If it is a higher shedding season, you should bathe and groom your dog more frequently to assist in shedding. Also, if your dog spends a lot of time outside, he gets dirty with sweat, mud, pollens, or sticks. He needs a more frequent grooming routine. This causes your dog to itch. Grooming for Labradoodles like Max after the beach means thorough rinsing with fresh water, followed by a Gentle Shampoo and brush at home. Labradoodle puppies need bathing just the same as full-grown Labradoodles. However a spot clean here and there is usually more appropriate for a puppy. They frequently make messes so a full bath is overkill and can hurt the coat. Puppies love playing in the dirt. This is normal behavior. Puppies often also struggle with potty training Puppies make a beeline toward bad smells and messes So expect a lot of spot cleans and mini baths for your Labradoodle puppy. How Old Should Labradoodle Puppies Be For Bath In terms of a full bath, you can start bathing your puppy when he or she is old enough to understand what is happening. Make sure you do this in an appropriate place, such as a bathtub or sink. Puppies need to learn about water before being bathed, so try to teach your puppy to enjoy baths. Do this by slowly introducing the concept, making it seem fun, and minimizing background distractions. Bathing dogs in a smaller container makes them feel more comfortable. These small gestures all work well together to create and reinforce a positive experience. Instead of using adult Labradoodle shampoo — go for a gentle puppy shampoo or even some baby shampoos if they are Vet and Groomer approved. Straight hair dogs still can have some Poodle-esque snout furnishings. This one needs a bath! A Labradoodle needs to be groomed and trimmed about once every two months. Trimming the hair around the face, butt, and ears is important because this is where most dirt accumulates. Our detailed grooming guide for Labradoodles gives 11 tips for DIY grooming. It is very possible to confidently groom a Labradoodle, but it takes preparation and practice. How to Bathe Your Labradoodle Bathing your Labradoodle takes longer than bathing many other breeds because of their thick coats. You should set aside some time before you bathe your Labradoodle so you can prepare everything you need beforehand. Some Labradoodles LOVE the water and playing fetch At Home Labradoodle Bathing Shopping List A decent shampoo that suits Labradoodle coats does not need to be crazy expensive Towels many, many towels Scissors even though we are not grooming, in case of knots or surprises Rubber gloves I do not use but many do Dog brush optional — I suggest a metal comb as well Small bucket for rinsing Tear stain remover if your Labradoodle has a light coat The Process in the Bath for your Labradoodle Acclimate your Labradoodle to the bath by putting some water in the bottom of a tub and allowing him to stand in it. Turn on the showerhead or hose attachment while petting him. Make sure he sees it is not harmful and allows him to get used to the sound and feel. Rinse first before adding any product. Sand, dirt, debris. Make sure the water gets to the skin level through the long coat. Once you are able to get the dogs completely rinsed off so that there is no visible dirt left on the fur and their coats are entirely wet , you will then want to lather them up with the product of your choosing. Labradoodle Max enjoys a cuddle in a towel after a shower and bath Make sure that this product is safe to use on your dog by checking with a veterinarian or by using products that were specifically designed for your furry friend. Use this opportunity to perform your own health check. Rinse your dog with water from the tap or small bucket and inspect them thoroughly before washing them again. Twice over gives a thorough and great result. This might seem obvious, but make sure there are no more bubbles coming out of the coat. Labradoodle luxurious hair does tend to trap some soap. Dry Time a Challenge Drying a Labradoodle is hard work! You need to use lots of towels, and you need to be careful not to scare your puppy too much. Use a hairdryer if you like, and be careful when turning it on. Also, take extra care to dry their eyes and ears. Most dogs find the noise of a hairdryer overwhelming. Brush a dry dog only. A wet dog can be combed blunt steel comb though, these are so helpful. You should bathe your dog fully when he is 3 months old. Use quality puppy shampoo and conditioners designed for puppies. You can skip the conditioner really — but some owners like this extra step. Before 3 months, you should get him used to being wet and having been washed. Do mini baths or fast baths for the puppy coat until this age. This helps make future baths much easier. Even getting used to the running water and towel dry will help your dog be happier as an adult doodle during a grooming session. The Consequences of too Many Baths for Labradoodles If you wash a Labradoodle too frequently, we risk damaging their adult coat. The coat needs time to grow and develop properly. If you wash your dog too often, you could damage its natural protective oils and leave it feeling rough and scratchy. The likelihood of skin irritation or reaction to cleaning equipment also increased with an over-washed coat. Dry skin, loose hair, and irritated skin need to be monitored. Realistically this will not be a concern for most of us. Our Labradoodle Max does visit the beach often, so he gets washed in Summer FAR more frequently than the other times of the year. We try to efficiently wash him using safe and gentle shampoo — but cut down the repeat lathering. When winter comes round, he bathes far less frequently — but we use more shampoo and later more when he does wash. A happy gray Poodle and Doodle dog. Their fur looks dull and lifeless. The entire coat has an odor If you have a sedentary, indoor Labradoodle — do NOT feel obliged to bathe your dog every 2 weeks. That said, you can help make bath time easier for your Labrador by starting early and introducing him to water gently. Use treats and praises to introduce him to all elements of the bathing process. A dog needs to learn how to take baths, shampoo, conditioner, wash rags, brushes, and blow dryer. It takes time and effort to teach a dog everything he or she needs to know about bathing. Start with a few short baths then gradually increase the frequency. Be patient. Dogs and puppies can take many different attempts to understand and learn a new concept. Should you blow-dry a Labradoodle coat? Start by using a gentle hairdryer setting. I know this sounds ridiculous as even the quiet settings are often very intense. But as possible, build up the settings slowly. Start with the outside of the legs — most dogs tolerate this the most. Then dry the legs. Save the head, chest, and face for the very last. The restraint is calming a bit and safe and makes maneuvering around a displeased Labradoodle much easier. It is the only area that requires you to have a little extra knowledge and to be cautious. We have a guide specifically about ear cleaning. A big number of issues that Labradoodles have with health and odor all relate to the ears. Ear infections are common, as are grime and mites caught in the ear hair. The Curly coat type is particularly prone to this issue. It was the most surprising area of grooming that I have encountered with Poodle Mix breeds. 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. They are energetic, fun-loving, and playful dogs. But they definitely have a lot of fur; it can either be tight curly locks and sometimes straighter hair with a thick coat. Although their thick coat can be a reason for you to love them even more, the thick coat paired with their playful nature can make bathing a long and not-so-easy process. How often to bathe a Labradoodle? Labradoodles should be based once every weeks, if you are lucky, they can last up to 5 months without a bath. Thankfully, their thick coat is not only beautiful, it is also dirt-repellent, which will make the need for bathing less frequent. If you want to know how often to bathe your furry Labradoodle and how this changes depending on things like seasons, for example, how to do it quickly and properly, when it is absolutely necessary to bathe them right away, and how to dry your Labradoodle, keep reading. Your life is about to get a whole lot easier. How often should you bathe your Labradoodle? If your Labradoodle is still a puppy, the bathing task will be much easier. As puppies, you can teach them to like bathing. Once your Labradoodle turns 3 months, it is your green light to start bathing them. Puppies should be bathed once every 3 to 5 months. If your Labradoodle is grown, it should be once every weeks. A scheduled bath for puppies will make it easier for them and you when they get older. Their dirt-repelling coat will make the bathing easier to manage. You should not over-bathe, though. But what does this actually means will depend on many things, and most importantly of those is the season and their activities. There are many situations where you just have to give your Labradoodle a bath right away, for example, Labradoodles are quite playful, and during your walk, your dog may even splash into a puddle of mud and get dirty. Bad Odor If your Labradoodle smells, you should bathe them right away. Bad odor is not typical for these adorable dog breeds. Medical condition If your Labradoodle has a medical condition that requires you to use a specific medicinal shampoo, you might need to bathe them more regularly as part of their treatment. I also have a few recommendations for medicated shampoos in my guide to shampoos for your dogs here. Chemicals If you have been doing some gardening, it is possible that you have used some chemicals. You have probably warned your Labradoodle not to go out, but they got tempted anyway. If Your Labradoodle has been exposed to such chemicals, you should bathe them right away and make sure all the chemicals are out of their coat. Fleas All dogs can get fleas, however, Labradoodles are more prone to them because of their thick coat, which means fleas can be hidden deep inside their curly locks. If you notice fleas on your dog, pick them out and bathe them using an oatmeal shampoo right away. Salt If the snow did not stop you from going for a walk with your Labradoodle, then hats off to you. Before going out in the snow, make sure your Labradoodle is warm enough. The salt that is used to melt the snow on the street can be quite harmful to your dog. It can hurt their little paws. Thus, you should bathe your dog the minute they get home. You should also double-check to see if their paws are salt-free. How to bathe your Labradoodle Properly and Quickly If you follow the steps I explain here, I guarantee you that you will bathe your Labradoodle properly and quickly. Cover their ears, eyes, and nose If water gets in their ears, eyes, or their nose, the bathing experience will be completely annoying and may be harmful for your Labradoodle. You can use cotton balls to cover such sensitive areas. Check the water temperature Before putting your Labradoodle in the bath, test out yourself first. The water should not be too cool or too hot. The most convenient water temperature for your Labradoodle is warm. However, if you are bathing your dog during Summertime, you can make the water a bit colder. Wet the fur Curls need hydration. Completely wet hair will be easiest to detangle and will absorb shampoo and conditioner better, just like humans. Speaking of curls, you can learn how to prevent your curly dog from getting matted here. Make sure to use circular motions that allow the shampoo to travel to the root. After you apply the shampoo, you should make sure that it is completely rinsed out. Curls need love, if you are a curly-haired person, you understand. It might be useful to detangle their hair while the conditioner is in. After that, make sure you rinse out the conditioner completely too. Use shampoos and conditioners that are made for dogs, not humans. Dry them with a towel If you are lucky, you will need only one towel to dry your dog. Normally, people use three medium-sized towels to dry out their Labradoodles. Squeeze the remaining water out of the fur Using a towel alone is not enough, you should make sure all the water is out of their fur so that their skin does not get dry. Using your hands here is essential to squeeze out the remaining water. Hairdryer This step is optional. You can use your hairdryer to speed up the process. Make sure to hold the hairdryer away enough to not hurt your Labradoodle. Due to their floppy ears, they do not get enough air circulation, which can be a pretty cozy environment for bacteria. How to dry your Labradoodle after a bath As I have mentioned before, Labradoodles have a thick, curly fur coat, which makes it very hard to dry them after a bath. You should make sure that you are using high-absorbency towels to dry your Oodle with. Some people claim they use up to 5 high-absorbency, medium-sized towels. Laundry day is about to get messy. Labradoodles are very playful creatures, they might mistake your attempts of drying them with play-time. They might think you are petting them and get excited. It might be better to use a hairdryer to dry your Labradoodle in Winter. Thus, you would be doing your Labradoodle a favor. In all cases, it is best if you dry your Labradoodle thoroughly. If you find water in these sensitive areas, you should use cotton swabs to suck out the water. However, just like humans, you should be careful not to stick it in too much. Drying your Labradoodle will require a lot of effort and time, which is inevitable. But, it is essential that you do it correctly so that you prevent them from getting any serious skin issues such as dandruff or dry skin. Bathing and drying your Labradoodle is also considered to be valued quality time between you and your dog. So, try to enjoy it as much as possible. Yes, I know that is a lot of hard work, but it would save you a lot of time during washdays. You could also use coconut oil to soothe their skin and make sure they have a moisturized and shiny coat. Related Questions Do Labradoodles like baths? Yes, most Labradoodles like baths. If your Labradoodle is still a puppy, it is completely in your hands to make them like baths. If not, you are still in luck. Labradoodles are crossbreeds and since they are partially poodles, they like to swim too. Can you Bathe your labradoodle once a week? No, you should not bathe your Labradoodle once a week. Overbathing your dog might lead to skin issues such as dry skin and dandruff. As a rule of thumb, you should bathe your Labradoodle once every weeks. Can Labradoodles swim? Yes, it is most likely that Labradoodles enjoy swimming. They are bred from Poodles, which enjoy a swim too. However, some doodles require some encouragement and love to gather the courage to swim. How often should you wash a Labradoodle puppy? Labradoodle puppies often stay indoors. Thus, they require less bathing time. You can bathe your pup once every 4- 6 months and it will be enough for them. Check out the best and healthiest foods for golden retrievers at every age here — Dry, Wet, Homemade Recipes, and Treats! Taking a walk? These are the best leashes, collars, and harnesses for the buck that you can find. It is important to realize that regular brushing, bathing, and grooming are different things. Grooming includes the trimming of the hair, and is usually done in tandem with bathing or directly after but does not need to happen quite as frequently, although you are welcome to do so if you would like. Bathing helps you check in on your Labradoodle, maintain their coat from tangling, and keeps them healthy and clean. Labradoodles should be bathed every 2 to 3 weeks but can go up to 4 or 5 weeks depending on the time of year and their other grooming habits. For example, a dog will shed more in the fall and spring as he or she prepares for the cold or hot weather respectively; you will want to bathe him or her more during this time. Bathing your Labradoodle regularly helps you take care of their hair and also allows you to inspect all areas of their body. You will want to take into consideration the amount of shedding happening as well as the amount of outside time your Labradoodle is getting. If it is a high shedding season, you will want to bathe and groom your Labradoodle more frequently to assist in the shedding process. Similarly, when they spend a lot of time outdoors they get dirtier with sweat, mud, pollen, or sticks and need a more regular grooming routine as well. Since a Labradoodle coat repels dirt anyway, this should not be difficult. Simply follow the standard guidelines, and you should be fine. Labradoodle puppies actually need less bathing than full-grown Labradoodles, except in the case of visible dirt. When a Labradoodle puppy is developing his or her adult fur coat, his or her body will be attempting to regulate the oils that help to prevent dry skin among other concerns. Additionally, it is not until a dog has reached past the six- to eight-month range that his or her adult coat has become more water-resistant. Thus, as your Labradoodle puppy grows and plays, it is important to consider only bathing once per month or unless you can see visible dirt. If you are able to simply brush the dirt away, and your puppy does not have a strong odor, you may consider doing this to spread the bathing process out. Daily brushing is not necessary but will make the scheduled grooming less intensive. Labradoodles are pretty playful dogs all throughout their lifetime, but this may be especially true during their puppy years. Therefore, you may find that your Labradoodle puppy tends to roll around in the dirt more than he or she will in later years. If this is the case, then the basic brushing or rinsing method may be preferable to bathing weekly. Many people wonder when it is safe to first bathe a puppy. Puppies can be bathed as soon as they are ready and able to go home. Keep in mind, though, that bathing a puppy can be a scary process for them, so you will want to consider a few tricks to make the process more fun. For example, you may bathe them in a smaller bin than a large white tub, run the water prior to baths so that the initial process is not as loud, and provide a treat before and after they complete a job well done in the bath. By creating a safe and fun environment and reflecting an exciting personality for them to mirror, your Labradoodle will have a better likelihood of enjoying bath time from the start. How often you groom your Labradoodle will largely depend on your lifestyle and preferences. Many Labradoodles do not need to be fully groomed more than four times per year. You can minimize full shaves by trimming more regularly before a full shave is needed. Keep an eye out for signs of wax buildup and excessive ear hair; these may be indications of ear mites or disease. You put the solution into each ear, massage it for seconds, and then wipe it out using a tissue. Check with your vet for tips on loose hair removal and which solution to use. Labradoodles have a thick, curly type of coat which means it will take longer to bathe them in comparison to other dogs with straight or thinner coat types. Choosing when you will bathe your Labradoodle, as well as having all of your bathing tools ready in advance is important for a successful bath. Do not expect to be done in a few minutes like you would with a short-haired or small dog. One thing to note is that if you want your Labradoodle to have time outside afterward for drying purposes or just to help them be comfortable before bed, you should aim for mid-day so the sun is out and they have plenty of drying time. Otherwise, you may choose to dry them with a towel or blow dryer if they will let you do so. Keep in mind, though, that many dogs are scared of loud noises, so your Labradoodle may take some warming up to a hairdryer if this is the option you choose to go with. Knowing What You Need Getting the right products and equipment is very important for bathing your Labradoodle. Below, I will include a section on great shampoos and conditioners to use with your furry friend. If you are comfortable just using your regular tub, you will not really need much more. Just a couple of towels and maybe a hairdryer for drying as well as a good slicker brush to detangle after will be the essentials! Ideally, you will have a hose or removable showerhead so that you can rinse it easier. If you decide that you would rather use something other than a regular tub, you may need access to other tools to help make this process go smoothly. You may choose to use a bin for them to stand in and a bucket to transport water for rinsing purposes. By choosing something that will require less effort on your part, you will be more accessible to your dog and make this process a fun and routine experience for him or her. The Process in the Bath for your Labradoodle Acclimate Your Labradoodle and Rinse The first thing you will need to do is get your Labradoodle used to the bath and showerhead. A bath is not something that a dog has naturally been bred to understand, so it takes a little coaching and familiarizing on your part. Many dogs quickly acclimate to the process, but it is helpful if you are there encouraging them along the way both in practice and in attitude. To help acclimate your Labradoodle to the bath, put a little water in the bottom of the tub and allow them to stand in it. Making sure it is warm is a good idea to get them a positive first impression. This can be done in a quiet and calm fashion to show your Labradoodle that this is nothing to be scared of or dreaded. After you have gotten them more comfortable with their surroundings the tub plus a small amount of water , try turning on the showerhead or hose attachment while petting them. Let them see it is not harmful and allow them to get used to the noise and feeling. Again, your calming presence and helpful comfort will be helpful if they are more fearful of the bath or bathing devices. Add Products and Check on Their Skin Once you are able to get them fully rinsed off as in there is no visible dirt on the fur and their coat is entirely wet , you will want to lather them with the product of your choice. Please ensure that this product is safe for your dog by checking with your vet or by using products that are designed for your fur baby. When you are lathering them with the suds, it is best to use your hands to do this so that you can feel around under the coat on the skin for any problems such as lumps, bumps, or parasitic ticks. Regularly feeling them including during bath time will help you to detect ticks or abnormalities earlier on and could save your Labradoodle from experiencing much worse pains. This is considered more of a preventative health approach than a reactive one. Keep in mind it is good to avoid ears on Labradoodles when rinsing and using products. Their floppy, large ears are prone to infections and issues. By using your hands to rinse and wash them, you will have much more control over the areas of the body that receive treatment. As they may be excited and moving about more freely, you can help to show them how to stay calm by holding them lovingly as you rinse them. It will be important for you to consider wearing clothes that you do not mind getting wet or sudsy so that you can feel comfortable providing whatever support your pup may need during bath time. Rinse and Maybe Repeat After lathering your Labradoodle with shampoo and inspecting by rustling your fingers through his or her fur, you should thoroughly rinse them off. You will want to make sure to use the hose or showerhead to get all areas of them thoroughly rinsed off. Be sure that there are no more bubbles or suds that are coming off from their hair as you complete the process. This is particularly important because leaving in shampoo by accident can cause worse tangling after the bath. So, rather than helping in the grooming process, this can actually hurt their fur and can become painful for them. Additionally, this can cause the next bath and grooming time to be much more difficult for you as you will have to untangle more fur than you would have had you just rinsed your dog off completely the first time. Drying Drying the coat of a Labradoodle is no easy task! If you know anyone with thick, curly hair or if that is you in this case , then that person can absolutely verify that drying their hair is likely the lengthiest part of the hair maintenance process. When drying off a Labradoodle, you can expect to go through large towels during this. You will want to use towels that have a higher absorbency, but they do not have to specifically be designed for use with a dog. Using a hairdryer if your pup will let you can improve drying time significantly! Many dogs get very excited positively or negatively by loud noises such as hairdryers. If your dog is positively excited about the hairdryer, you will want to hold them more firmly while you dry them off- though be sure that this is still considered a fun activity for your pup. If they are negatively excited by the loud hairdryer, be sure to warn them before you turn it on, calmly approach them, and keep the intervals of use short. Take extra care to dry their ears, using tissue or cotton, to make sure they do not have water caught in there for long. It is important to note that just like humans should not cram a Q-tip into the ear canal as this can actually push and pack wax and other substances further into the canal , you will want to follow the same precautions for your dog. Wipe off any surface of the ear that is visible to the human eye, but do not go any further. Allowing tangles to sit can cause them to become much worse — and the last thing you want is to end up at a groomer after spending time and effort attempting to do this on your own. Similar to human hair, one of the best things you can do is to use a thick bristle comb on the fur while it is still wet. This will ensure that the tangles are removed thoroughly without breaking or damaging the hair. You can find thick bristle combs specifically designed for dogs, or you can even just use one that is designed for human hair as long as you remain cautious and aware of your dog during the grooming process. Brushing with a thin bristle brush or comb before they are dry can cause their hair to break or come out more easily, so waiting to brush them is the best option here. If you are going to attempt to do this on your own, this is also the best time to trim them as well. If you notice they need it and have learned how to do so without causing harm to your dog there are several areas you can learn online then taking off a bit of length can be a great thing for them and you. If you are unfamiliar with the trimming process or do not have the right tools, it is important to take your dog to a professional groomer instead of attempting this and accidentally harming your furry friend. This would absolutely delay their enjoyment of bath and grooming time. Then, the owner can attempt in a small capacity on areas instead of the entire coat that he or she feels comfortable prior to the groomer trimming the rest, and then eliminate the groomer completely. When considering purchasing a shampoo and conditioner for your Labradoodle, it is critical to remember that you must find one that is designed for doggy fur. Sometimes, human baby shampoos can be used on dogs, but it is best to purchase one that is designed specifically for use with animals. Here are a few to consider: 1. Ph Balanced! Made In The Usa! Buy With Confidence! Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site s , as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. One of the things that I love about using this brand of shampoo is the fact that it makes untangling so much easier afterward. I am not positive as to why this is the case, although I assume it has something to do with the oatmeal. Either way, it definitely feels great for their fur. Healthy Breeds Pet Shampoo is a great product that is also economical. This brand is a great, safe choice if you are looking for a shampoo to try out for the first time! Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Australian Labradoodle Grooming Guide Choosing a Groomer Before you bring your Australian Labradoodle to the groomer, ask if they have had previous experience clipping Australian Labradoodles. Show your groomer some photos from our website so that they know exactly how you expect the clip to look. Labradoodle coats require a regular brushing and grooming routine. How often you have your Australian Labradoodle trimmed will depend on how fast their coat grows, your personal preferences in how long you leave them, how much maintenance you want to do at home, and how often you have them groomed professionally. You can expect to bathe and completely blow out their coat every weeks, and plan to have them trimmed approximately every weeks. For an adult Australian Labradoodle, you should allow on average, 60 minutes every two weeks for brushing time. If your Labradoodle is active in the water or hiking in nature areas, you may have to run a brush through them more often to remove debris or loosen hair clumping during the drying process post-swimming. Wait until your dog is dry, then run a slicker through their coat. Purchasing a small grooming table and arm, and training them to stand still during brushing and drying will save your back. But be warned that you need to always have a hand on your dog when they are on the grooming table or attached to a grooming arm. Never leave them or turn away or they can try to jump off the table and injure themselves. When your Labradoodle has short hair, an inch or two, regular brushing with a slicker can work just fine. Once the hair gets longer, it is important to make sure you are reaching all the way to the base of the hair by adding a metal greyhound comb. If loose hair is not removed near the skin, mats can begin to form. In separating your dogs coat with your hand, you can brush and comb all the way to the skin. Work backwards from the feet up to the body, and the tail to the head. Brush in the direction of the hair, but add small amounts of coat to each stroke. At approximately eight months old a puppy coat needs more frequent brushing during its changeover to the adult coat. Bathing: Australian Labradoodles need bathed and brushed out approximately once a month. Puppies can be bathed as needed. If you are going to bath your Australian Labradoodle at home, be sure to brush through the coat completely first. If you do it the other way around, any mats will get tighter when you get them wet. Also, watch that you do not pull on the mat while you are cutting it, and be aware of how closely the skin may be to your scissors. We also use a dematting tool to help break a mat into a smaller piece for easier removal. Then brush, comb, or gently work any mats out. Purchasing a commercial hair dryer is worth the investment and will speed up the drying process. Head: The lovable teddy bear look of your Australian Labradoodle is enjoyed every time you look at them, and every time you take them out and others look at them. No matter what length the body is trimmed, that adorable teddy bear face can make up the difference in winning hearts everywhere they go. A picture is worth a thousand words, so the photos and grooming card below coming soon will help to clarify the following worded instructions you will need to convey to your groomer to get exactly the look you want to see. It is best to print out the grooming card and take it with you at each visit to your groomer. This creates a more natural look and keeps the hair from poking at or covering their eyes. It also makes it easier to clean any matter out from the corner in the morning. Feet: Keeping your Labradoodles paws shaped nicely will help less water and debris attach to their feet as they are coming and going. We start trimming around their paws by around weeks of age to get them used to the action of having their feet picked up and worked with. You want to go around the bottom edge of their paw in a nice, rounded shape, snipping off longer hair so that it does not hit the ground. Your groomer can trim hair from the bottom of their feet with a clipper and a 30 blade. Nails should be trimmed regularly every weeks depending on wear. The hair under their tail should also be trimmed to keep the area clean. They do not require frequent baths because too much bathing can strip away necessary oils in their skin and fur. If your Labradoodle has a curly coat, you probably take them to the groomer on occasion for a trim, and they can be washed there. However, as any dog owner knows, dogs love to roll around in gross things, and your playful pup may not shy away from a mud puddle. Dogs are the same way. Also, when long fur gets wet, it will stretch more when you pull on it, resulting in rips and tears that will make their coat look worse. Let your dog test the water before you turn on the shower head or start dumping it on them. The last thing you want to do is create an aversion to bath time. Labradoodles tend to enjoy water, so they are likely to be fine in the bath. Choose the right products There are so many dog shampoos and conditioners on the market. It can be hard to choose which one is best for your Labradoodle. With this breed, simple products without a lot of scents or colors may be best. While the Labradoodle is considered to be a hypoallergenic dog, this does not mean that the dog cannot suffer from allergies. Labradoodles are prone to environmental allergies, which can extend to grooming products. If your shampoo makes your dog itchy and uncomfortable, they will probably scratch themselves excessively, which can cause skin problems. Also look for products that are non-toxic, because it is hard to stop your dog from licking himself. Look for a gentle shampoo, perhaps even one that is made for dogs with allergies. The goal is to remove the dirt and bad odors, not completely strip their skin and coat of necessary oils. There are also shampoos on the market that are designed to make white coats appear whiter. If your white Labradoodle looks yellow or discolored, you may want to try one of those shampoos. Conditioners are also available for dogs with especially dry coats, but they are not necessary for bathing. We use Madden pin brushes on our labradoodles and have found this brush to be excellent quality. If you catch them in play mode during the day, you will only be reinforcing that brushing time is something to get all riled up about. Nail Clipping Clipping their nails is also a good exercise to do when you find them tired out. They tend to care a lot less about things. You can start by just clipping the nails on one paw. This way your pup learns this is quick and no big deal. It also gives you the opportunity to practice this exercise 4 days in a row, rather than once and then having to wait for them to grow again. When clipping, clip just the tip of the nail where it starts to curve downward, holding the nail clippers parallel to the bottom of the paw. Be careful not to clip too much, otherwise it will hurt and the nail will bleed. Lean towards clipping little bits more often than trying to get a lot off all at once. Ear Cleaning Ear cleaning is something that labradoodles need since they have those long ears that trap and hold in moisture. Check their ears every few weeks and if you notice they look dirty, then get a cotton ball or makeup remover pad, etc. Never push anything down in the ear, you could damage the ear and cause your puppy pain. Do the other side, and finish with an ear drying powder. In fact, over bathing can harm this quality in their coat, and actually cause you to need to bathe more often. If they get dirty, let them dry and simply brush the dirt right out. It is good to get them used to getting wet though, and when you do use shampoo, we recommend a tearless shampoo specifically designed for dogs as their PH balance is different than humans. A good minute walk daily will meet this need your new family member has. Up until then, their joints are developing and jogging on pavement would not be good for their joints. However, this does not mean you have to limit their activity. Running across the yard chasing a ball at their own pace and will is good for their developing body, and talking walks through the neighborhood is an excellent way to meet their exercise needs. Labradoodles are a wonderful dog breed and opening up your home to one of these pups is going to bring so much joy into your life. With that being said, Labradoodles also require a considerable amount of maintenance and upkeep — with bathing being an easy thing to overlook. How to bathe a Labradoodle To bathe a Labradoodle, start by brushing them to remove any loose dirt, set your bath water to a lukewarm temperature, and gently help your dog inside. Lastly, dry your Labradoodle with a towel and blowdryer. A Labradoodle combines the incredible personality traits of the Labrador Retriever and the Poodle. This makes Labradoodles both unique and expensive , as you get to have the playful nature of a Labrador combined with the intelligence and cleverness of a Poddle, which is why so many pet owners are hopping on the Doodle trend. However, this kind of pup needs to be approached with careful consideration as it has unique qualities that make it stand out among other dogs. One of the first characteristics you will notice with your Labradoodle is that your pup has a different type of coat. Unlike most dog breeds that have fur, a Labradoodle has hair, which means that you need to bathe it properly if you want to keep its coat healthy. To help you understand this further, we are going to take you through our 5 step Labradoodle bath time routine. After extensively researching Labradoodle maintenance, I have been able to gather enough information to determine how to properly bathe this breed. My research has shown me that you need to follow the Labradoodle bathing procedure carefully if you want to get the best results from their coat. Keep in mind, you can always get your dog groomed by a professional groomer. Depending on who you ask, you will get a few different answers on this but as a general rule of thumb, you should bathe your pup once per month. With that being said, each Labradoodle is different and you may find that you need to bathe your dog more or less often depending on its lifestyle and environment. If your Labradoodle has a pretty stable routine at home and goes out for casual walks in urban areas, then you can probably get away with bathing your dog every 5 to 6 weeks. On the other hand, if you have a very active Labradoodle out in the countryside or simply one that tends to get messy at dog parks, you may need to wash your pup as often as every 3 weeks. You also need to consider that there is a difference between bathing and rinsing. Bathing is a thorough cleaning process where you give your Labradoodle a deep wash that targets its coat fully, as well as its skin. Rining is simply washing off your dog after they get a little bit muddy or dirty. When you bathe your Labradoodle, you want to do it routinely and systematically so that you can keep its coat as healthy as possible. Whereas rinsing is something that you can do quite regularly when needed — with some owners giving their dog a rinse multiple times a week after rugged play sessions at the park. Before you commit to a routine bathing schedule for your Labradoodle, you should try to observe its habits and behavior so that you can find an optimal timeframe that suits your pup. As we said, each Labradoodle is a bit different and you should decide on a schedule for your dog based on its lifestyle. Labradoodle Bathing Supplies Before you can begin bathing your pup, you first need to gather all of the right supplies for the job. Simply spraying your Labradoodle with your backyard hose is not going to do the trick. These are the bathing supplies that you need to get before you can start washing your dog. Given that this breed does not have fur, you need to buy a shampoo that is specifically meant for hair. There are a lot of different shampoo products out there and it is easy to feel overwhelmed when you consider your options. Some products have been made just for Labradoodle coats, which are going to deliver the best end results. Check Price One thing you always want to watch out for are shampoos that contain a lot of additives and chemicals. Much like with human hair, a Labradoodles coat is going to benefit most from natural ingredients — so read labels carefully and try to rely on trusted brands. Some products have been known to cause skin irritations, which is something you want to avoid at all costs. Whenever picking out a new shampoo, always do a test first to see how your dog responds. If you see that the coat is healthy afterward and that their skin is not irritated, you should be good to go. The coat of a Labradoodle will require a thorough drying process, which is why it is best to have at least two towels handy before you begin washing. A blow dryer with multiple settings is also recommended so that you can expose your Labradoodle to it slowly, which will keep them from getting frightened and intimidated. Exfoliated Dog Bathing Gloves Your hands should suffice for bathing your Labradoodle but by using exfoliated dog bathing gloves , you will find that the cleaning process is much more thorough. These gloves were designed for cleaning dog coats and having them on can make a huge difference in how effective the bathing process is. They are texturized to remove more hair, which will ensure a minimal amount of shedding, and they will also help get rid of any dead skin on your Labradoodle. This dog breed has a very specific type of coat that needs to be looked after carefully, as it can easily get messy if you forget to keep a consistent cleaning schedule. These are the steps that you need to follow to bathe your pup. Step 1: Hair Brushing Before you begin washing your Labradoodle with water, you want to get as much dirt and debris out of its coat as possible by using a brush Having a reliable brush for your Labradoodle is going to be a must for maintaining its hair — regardless of washing. You will be amazed by how much cleaning time you can save by doing this properly. In addition to dirt and debris, you also want to remove any loose hair from the coat, as this is also something that will hinder the bathing process. With that being said, we always find that it is better to take care of as much of the prep-work beforehand so that you can avoid a rough transition when the time comes to bathe your pup. The first thing that you want to do is make sure that all of your necessary cleaning supplies are nearby so that you can easily reach them. You want to make your Labradoodle as comfortable as possible when getting bathed which is why you should set the temperature of your water before throwing them into the tub. Lukewarm is generally the most ideal temperature setting for washing a dog. Step 3: Help Your Dog Get Into the Bath Again, each pup reacts differently to getting washed and you want to make the experience as pleasant as possible for them. If your dog is willing to hop right in for their routine bath, then great. However, not all Labradoodles are like this and may feel intimidated or dislike getting washed altogether. You can either usher your pup into the bath so they can hop in on their own or you can gently pick them up and place them inside. You must approach this with care so that they are not frightened by the idea of getting clean — especially if they are puppies and still getting used to the idea of bathing. Once they are inside, make sure that they feel comfortable and secure before you begin cleaning. Allow 30 seconds to a minute of adjustment time without the water on so that they can gauge their environment. This is always a good time for a pet, a pat, and a treat to reassure them that they are in good hands. You should be able to get a substantial amount of cleaning done with water alone, which will wash out the majority of the dirt, dust, and any kind of debris that is embedded into their coat. After you have gone through with the initial rinse, turn the water off if possible especially if they find it unpleasant. Go through their entire coat gently yet firmly and scrub all the way down to their skin. A lot of dogs actually enjoy this part of the bathing process, as it is essentially a massage. Once the product has been properly applied, let it soak into the coat for at least a couple of minutes. You can then rinse out the shampoo while giving them another quick scrub, which should remove any remaining dirt or debris. Given the curly and shaggy nature of their hair, a quick pass-through with a towel is not going to be enough to properly dry them. With your Labradoodle still inside the bath, use a towel to remove as much water as possible from their coat. You will find that the town soaks up quite a lot and it will likely become wet very quickly. Having a second towel handy is always a good idea when drying your Labradoodle, as you are going to need it. Now, that the initial drying process is done, use a blowdryer to remove the remaining moisture. Dogs typically do not like blowdryers at first and may even be afraid of them. Get your Labradoodle used to the blowdryer by gently exposing them to it. Use it from a further distance on a light setting and gradually work your way closer. Helping them get accustomed to the bathing and drying process will make it easier when they are bigger. The specific method used to bathe a Labradoodle will vary from one dog to the next, because their coat types can vary significantly. Some may have the tight curls of the Poodle, whilst others have straighter, thick Lab coats. Is Labradoodle Bathing Important? While many Labradoodle dogs are easier to manage than other breeds or mixes thanks to their low-shedding fur, they still need routine grooming. And yes, this sometimes includes a scheduled bath. Labradoodles are energetic, playful, and fun-loving breeds that love spending time outdoors and in water. And, playtime outside almost always involves some splashing in puddles and rolling in dirt. When this happens, your doodle dog will need a bath! This could also be the case if your pet develops a skin condition that needs to be treated with a medicated shampoo. So, you may find the event happening more often than you first expected. Even if you take your dog to the groomer regularly, there will be times where you need to clean them after a particularly messy walk. This is especially true if you have a first- or second-generation Labradoodle crossbreed. Their fur sheds less and produces less allergy inducing dander than many other types of dogs. All dogs shed and shed most during shedding season, including the Labradoodle. Along with being low shedding, the Labradoodle also has a dirt-repellent coat that tends to be much easier to manage. You can begin bathing your Labradoodle once he reaches three months of age. Try using a quality shampoo and conditioner that is designed for puppies. This is a part of socialization and can help make future bath times much easier. Once you begin bathing your Labradoodle, you may be tempted to do it more often than needed. But, over-bathing your Labradoodle can actually be damaging to their skin and fur. Once your Labradoodle reaches at least three months of age, you can begin bathing him once every two to three weeks. Doing so could have a negative impact on their skin and coat. All dogs produce natural oils that help aid in skin and coat health. Over-washing them can hinder this natural production of oils they need in order to keep their fur healthy. Overproduction or underproduction of these oils can cause an increase in skin problems. Including allergies, dry skin, patchy fur, and can even increase shedding. Luckily, Labradoodles are not known to carry much doggy odor. Still, if you want to help keep your Labradoodle smelling fresh between bath time, you always have the option of using grooming wipes or coconut oil. Some owners find this helps to reduce dry skin, soothe allergies, and keep their Labradoodle smelling lovely. However, be aware there is currently little evidence in scientific studies for these claims. You can then gently rub in your chosen shampoo, working it through their curls gently. Make sure the shampoo is fully rinsed out before moving onto the conditioner. Once again, make sure all conditioner is fully washed out afterwards. Dry them off with a towel at first, gently patting them dry and squeezing water out of the fur. Use your hand to soften the intensity of air. Tips for Getting Your Labradoodle Used to Bathtime Getting your Labradoodle puppy comfortable with being bathed at an early age can make all the difference when it comes to routine bath time. We should note that most dogs do not like being bathed. Even dogs who love water often tuck their tails when it comes time for a good wash. That said, you can help make bath time easier for your Labradoodle by starting early and introducing them to water gently. Use treats and praise to introduce them to all elements of the bath including: The bathtub.

Life Span Did You Know? Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds. The Chocolate Labrador Retriever is not a distinct dog breed from other Labs, but it is a separate coat color variation that is specifically bred for. Similar to the other standard coat colors of Labrador Retrievers, Chocolate Labs are energetic dogs that get along well in a family setting. As a Retriever, they also make great hunting dogs and have also been known to fill other working dog roles including service dogs, guide dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, and more. They are even one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units. A point of interest is that all modern Chocolate Labrador Retrievers can be traced to three specific Black Labradors that lived during the s. Chocolate Labs are industrious little pups. They were bred for retrieval and will often sniff about for something to get into. They are also one of the most affectionate dog breeds and absolutely love being with their favorite humans. Properly socialized and well-trained, Labs are one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. They get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They are famously even-tempered and playful. This makes them fantastic dogs for a growing family, as they tend to be gentle and patient with little ones. They can have a high prey drive. They usually do well with small pets within the family that they have been raised with or socialized around, but likely will still have the urge to chase other animals while out and about. They also tend to be open and friendly with strangers. After all, strangers are just more people to give them attention and play with them. Chocolate Labrador Retrievers may be high-energy dogs, but they are also highly adaptable. They will thrive in homes with fenced yards where they can run freely. They can adapt well to apartment living as well as long as they get plenty of daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation. Their natural urge to dig and bark when they are bored or agitated can be quelled with a little training and exercise. Although they can handle some alone time, Labs love to be with their families and thrive on attention from them, so they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. Chocolate Labs also have a water-resistant double coat that makes them well-suited for most habitable climates. As with most dogs, they are sensitive to heat. Although they can handle some cold and will likely love to play in the snow, they are not a snow dog breed and may need to bundle up while out on walks in areas with harsher winters. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Chocolate Labrador Retriever can include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, hereditary myopathy, and heart disease. There is also a condition with a genetic link called exercise-induced collapse EIC , which can occur in young adult Labradors. Carriers of this can be identified by DNA tests and it is advised that breeders test for this and avoid practices that would produce the disease. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, Labrador Retrievers are at a higher risk for bloat. Bloat in dogs can be dangerous and can quickly become fatal if the stomach flips gastric torsion. Chocolate Labrador Retrievers are incredible companions and are also one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. Their energy can make them a handful at times, but their intelligence, adaptability, patience with people, and eagerness to please make them easy to train. Labs are one of the smartest dog breeds , so they pick up on things easily. As long as training is consistent and focused on positive reward and praise, a Chocolate Lab will do their best to respond as expected and will often exceed expectations. Chocolate Labs have a short, water-resistant coat that will shed year-round. Brushing a few times a week, daily brushing during seasonal shedding, and the occasional bath are all that are needed to keep a Lab coat healthy and looking great. They may need baths more often if they are avid swimmers, go on a lot of outdoor adventures, and get dirty a lot. Floppy ears tend to trap dirt, moisture, and debris. Proper dental care for dogs is imperative to help prevent painful dental diseases like gum disease or tooth decay later in life. You can also supplement your dental care efforts with vet-approved dental hygiene chews. Labrador Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds and need a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough, but your Chocolate Labrador will likely be up for more activity if you are. One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that they have an extended puppyhood and tend to maintain that puppy-like energy and maturity until they are years old. Swimming can be a great lower-impact activity and Labrador Retrievers are one of the dog breeds that tend to love water. Between that, their water-resistant coat, and webbed toes, you may have trouble getting your Chocolate Lab out of the water. Fully-grown Chocolate Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Chocolate Labs generally live for years on average. Fourteen years later, the American Kennel Club did the same in .Featured Chocolate Labrador Retriever Article. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed , times. Labrador retrievers are an adorable and popular dog breed that can make a great addition to your household. Aside from a physical examination, you can do a professional DNA test on the dog to check its genetic makeup. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Does the fur appear short, and have a thick texture? The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Did you know? There are silver labs, but silver is not an acceptable color in the breed standard as this color is believed to have come from a cross with the Weimaraner. However, dogs with this coat color may still be registered with certain kennel clubs. If the dog is a yellow or black lab, check that the puppy has brown eyes. In the case of chocolate labs, check for brown or hazel eyes. Check to see how long its legs are; while a Labrador should have longer legs than a Dachshund, its legs should be shorter than a Husky. Purchase a dog genetics test, which will give you a specialized testing kit. Some DNA tests will look for genetic markers, while cheaper tests focus more on the different breeds. Tip: Try to keep the puppy from sharing food or playing rough with the other dogs, as this might hurt the integrity of the saliva sample. Package the saliva sample according to the instructions given by the company. Seal the envelope or package carefully, so the sample is completely secure while it travels to the lab. Generally, you can find the test results listed by breed, followed by a percentage; however, this might differ, depending on the company. If this is possible, use a cotton swab to collect saliva samples from 1 or both parents. Store these samples carefully, so you can send them to a professional company. Seal the envelope or package carefully to secure the sample, and keep it safe in transit. Go to source Seeing a CH or confirmation champion title on the pedigree certificate means that the dog is close to the ideals in the breed standard and is related to a dog that was able to win over other dogs at a show with at least 15 conformation points. Go to source A dog with this lineage can make a great candidate for showing. If your dog has documented parentage with the American Kennel Club, you can search their database and purchase a certificate that affirms this. You can also register your dog through the American Kennel Club once you have proof of their pedigree. Go to source Fees for pedigrees very depending on the type. Find out how we get chocolate, black or yellow puppies and what color pups we might get when we mix Labradors of different colors. Strictly speaking, there are only three different types of Labrador color: black Labs, brown Labs usually referred to as chocolate and yellow Labs. These are the three colors recognized and accepted by the Kennel Club In practice, there is a wide range of shades of yellow Labrador color, from palest cream to richest fox red. But what makes a Labrador brown, or black, or yellow. And what about Silver Labradors? Where does this new and controversial coat color come in to play? Where do Black and Chocolate Labradors come from? The information that determines whether or not your Labrador is basically black or basically chocolate is passed on through a pair of genes. Why black is a dominant color: It is normal for dominant genes to switch off, or over-ride, recessive genes. And that is exactly what happens here. A dog with BB genes will be black, because he has no little b gene, the one that gives us a brown coat. But a Bb dog will be black too, because if the dominant black gene is present, it switches off the brown gene. How chocolate Labradors are made: Even though a dog inherits a little b gene, the dog will only appear brown if no black gene B is present at all. Two black genes BB gives you a black Labrador One of each Bb also give you a black Labrador Two brown genes bb gives you a chocolate Labrador Remember that the black dominant gene always switches of the brown gene, so only the dog at the bottom will actually look brown. Generation after generation of black dogs can continue to have only black puppies if dogs with the Bb gene are only ever mated to dogs with BB genes. Remember, the dog in the middle of our list above will look black, but pass the brown gene on to about half of all its offspring. But things are never that simple are they? Because of course some Labradors are neither black nor brown. The genetic information that creates a yellow coat comes from another pair of genes altogether. And these genes have a different kind of power. The result is a yellow dog But little ee is recessive, and if the dominant E gene is present, it switches off the masking gene. It only takes one big E gene to do this. So the dog will only appear yellow if no big E gene is present at all. There are three possible combinations of eee gene that a dog could inherit. There are nine different possible combinations. Nine different possible Labrador genotypes! The chart below lists them genotype is the genetic makeup, phenotype is the appearance of the dog. Old chocolate Labs I have been writing about Labradors for many years now, and there is no doubt in my mind that they are all wonderful dogs. But the chocolate Labrador is special. Meet Rachael, my Beautiful Brown Lab All Labradors are beautiful, of course, but brown Labradors will always hold a special place in my heart. In fact, I am unashamedly biased! You see, I am lucky enough to share my life with Rachael. A female chocolate retriever from a mixture of American and English Lab lines. This is Rachael as a puppy. This page is a celebration of what is for me, one of the most beautiful dogs in the world. Rachael has been a huge source of inspiration for this website, so this is a little tribute to her and a thank you for all she has taught me. Where do Chocolate Labs come from? But they had been around for some years before that. The Labrador breed was developed mainly by a couple of English aristocrats in the s, from dogs they had imported from North America. Although our early Labrador Retrievers were predominantly black, some of these original dogs carried the genetic information required to produce chocolate puppies. Just as some also carried the information required to produce yellow puppies. If mainly black dogs were bred from, you may wonder how a brown puppy was ever born! To understand that, we need to take a peep at the genes that carry the code for coat color in the Labrador retriever. How is the Chocolate Color Inherited in Labradors? The instructions that tell your dog what to look like, and what color to be, come packed in genes. And genes come in pairs. This is true for the gene that determines whether or not the Labrador will be brown this gene is called b or black B. Every Labrador has either two genes for a black coat BB or two genes for a brown coat bb or one of each Bb. The color black in Labradors is dominant. That means that if a Labrador has one gene for the color brown, and one gene for the color black, the dog will be black. This is because his black gene switches off the brown one. The brown gene just sits hidden inside him doing nothing in particular, while the black gene takes control of his coat. What about Chocolate Labs? So for a chocolate Lab puppy to be born, he needs to have those two chocolate genes, one is not enough. However, a black Labrador can sneakily carry a brown gene Bb and pass it along to his children. This is how the color brown can and did remain hidden in generation after generation of black Labradors. Shedding chocolate Labs can appear paler as the undercoat shows through more when deep in shed. In old age their coat can also fade, especially around their face. Why were Chocolate Labs not Wanted? So if there were always brown genes in our Labrador population, there have always been occasional brown puppies. All that was required to produce some chocolate Labrador Retriever puppies was for someone to mate a black dog carrying brown Bb with another black dog carrying brown. And hey presto, some of this litter of puppies are brown! And of course in the days long before DNA tests,, there was no way of knowing for sure that a black dog was carrying brown, until he had made some brown puppies. By which time it was too late! It seems bizarre to us now, in a world where chocolate is such a popular color in dogs. But in the early s only black would do. When did Chocolate Labs become Popular? By the s and 30s a few brown or liver Labradors as they were then called were making an appearance on the shooting field. But for some years more, brown was not widely acceptable to Labrador enthusiasts. Chocolate Labs are loving dogs, full of warmth and enthusiasm That preference continues today, and we still often name our brown Labs after favorite snack bars and chocolate flavored drinks! The s was a turning point in the popularity of the chocolate Lab, but interest grew slowly at first. Gradually, the public began to demand more chocolate Lab puppies, and gradually breeders began to produce them. Over the next few decades, Chocolate Labradors became increasingly popular both in the show ring and as pets. In the shooting community, where Labradors were expected to do a job of work, the preference for black continued. This continued throughout the late s, and into the present day, particularly in the UK. American Chocolate Lab American chocolate Labradors were bred to work, and are also known as field Labradors. The chocolate Lab has now become more established in the working community, but they are harder to find. There is a rumour going around that this is because brown Labradors are a bit stupid! But is it true? You might also have noticed that chocolate Labs are rarely seen as seeing eye dogs. Chocolate Lab Characteristics Just like you and me, every dog is a product of both his environment. As well as the genes he is born with. We have seen that many chocolate Labradors come from show Labrador lines, and these bloodlines tend to have certain characteristics in common. Characteristics that are passed along from parent to puppy. Chocolate Lab size varies quite a bit. Show Labradors English are often more heavily built, and somewhat slower and physically less agile than their field bred counterparts. Some English brown Labs may reach 80 or 90lbs without being fat or overweight. Whereas American chocolate Labs are often lighter. My Rachael, for example, weighs less than 60lbs. Most males of her build will weigh five or ten pounds more. English chocolate Labs are also more likely to have a chunky Labrador head and thick otter tail. And while some feel that the chunkiness of the skull has been taken too far in show lines, there is no denying the beauty of a classic Labrador head. A brown Labrador is more likely to be from these show types of bloodline and are therefore more likely to share these general characteristics. But there is more. Chocolate Lab Temperament American Labs may have a more intense retrieve drive, or urge to chase and retrieve things than their show bred cousins. In short, they are desperate to please. Over many generations this biddable quality has been bred into our working Labs alongside their retrieving and hunting prowess. This has given working dogs a rather different temperament from our show stock. Chocolate Lab Intelligence In show dogs you may see a more robust temperament. An English chocolate Lab is often less concerned over the little ups and downs of life. Nothing is taken too seriously. Many English chocolate Lab owners report that their dogs are especially playful. And I have certainly found that to be the case with Rachael. She adores soft toys and spends hours playing with her Flat Squirrel! However, they may less distractible, more focused and therefore easier to train. This can certainly give the impression of a dog that is pretty smart. These dogs may also be more likely to be black. English Labs are still highly intelligent, highly trainable dogs. The differences between field and show might give you the edge in competition. They are also becoming increasingly irrelevant as we switch to more modern methods of training which are much better at motivating dogs to engage in the training process. We mentioned earlier that the color black has long been favoured by the working retriever community. Experienced, working gundog enthusiasts are less likely to buy a puppy that is not from working lines, and when they do, they are more likely to choose a black dog. Unsurprisingly this means that most working lines of Labs are predominantly black. Black is also a great color for a hunting companion. A yellow dog really stands out in the countryside, even in poor light, so even when yellow dogs became more common, they were not so popular with the hunter. Brown dogs are better camouflaged but became more numerous much later and were embraced first by the pet and show communities. Are Chocolate Labs Stupid? To my knowledge, no study has ever been carried out on the differing intellectual abilities of Labrador of different colors. Everything you hear is based on personal anecdotal stories, often passed along in fun. At least to begin with! She has very intense retrieve drive, but is less naturally keen to share the outcome with anyone. She is also easily distracted and because of this she has taken me a little longer to train than my working line Labs. But it is most unlikely that there is any distinct difference in intelligence between dogs of the same breed that happen to be a different color. Being chocolate does not make a dog stupid Even if there were a difference in learning ability between different colored dogs, it does not mean that one caused the other. The answer lies in the behavior and temperament of dogs from different bloodlines. Types of chocolate Labs The difference in trainability is in short a feature of the difference between the field bred dog and the show bred dog. Not a feature of the color of the dog. It is a coincidence that many chocolate Labradors are English in type, and many black Labs are American in type. Because of this coincidence the characteristics of the show bred Lab tend to be attributed to our brown friends. While the characteristics of the field bred Lab tend to be attributed to our black dogs. So you can see how the myth got started. The fact is, that chocolate Labs from working lines are just as easy to train as black Labs from working lines. But you are less likely to meet a chocolate Lab from working lines at the moment. But rest assured, your chocolate friend is not stupid. With modern training methods you can easily teach him to be a well behaved and obedient dog. Chocolate Labrador Shades Unlike our yellow Labradors — which come in a wide range of shades, the color chocolate is pretty consistent in puppyhood. Most chocolate Labs are quite similar in color. As the old hair dies it starts to lose some of its color, and the dead hair is much paler than the glossy new coat that will soon appear. And though some chocolate Labs are darker than others, even when taking the stage of moult into account, variations between individuals are fairly small, with one very contentious exception. The Silver Labrador. Silver Labs Are Chocolate Labs Silver Labradors have a gene which dilutes the color chocolate and makes it a pale, silvery shade. Some people find this very attractive, while others regard it as an abomination. There is no doubt that a hundred years ago, there was no coat dilution gene in our Labrador Retrievers. We know for sure that this gene has appeared quite recently. The strongest theory is that the gene arrived through cross breeding a Labrador with a dog that carries the dilute coat color gene. A breed such as the Weimaraner for example. This seems rather less likely. Not as silver itself. A bright Future for the Chocolate Lab Throughout history, there have been a number of famous black Labradors, and we tend to associate yellow Labs with the all important role of working as assistance dogs. This is not because chocolate Lab dogs lack the qualities or abilities of black and yellow dogs, but simply because the popularity of the color is a relatively recent phenomenon. There are as we speak, plenty of chocolate Labradors serving in the military, working as assistance dogs and in the shooting field. Maybe you have a story to tell about your own chocolate friend, or maybe you are just starting out on your journey to finding a chocolate Lab to share your life. We have some tips for searching in the right places. The other way, is to buy a chocolate Lab puppy and raise him yourself. There are pros and cons to both rescuing an older dog and raising your own puppy, I go into these in some detail in The Labrador Handbook. It may well depend on what stage of life your family is at and on how experienced you are with dogs in general, and with Labradors in particular. You can buy both books from Amazon by following links above. If rescuing appeals to you, and you are ready for the challenges and the many benefits of giving a dog a new lease of life, there are plenty of rescue societies that specialise in Labradors. Rescuing can be a wonderful and fulfilling way of bringing a lovely brown retriever into your life, so do consider it thoroughly. You can find lots more information here: Is a rescue Labrador right for you and here The right dog for you- Puppy or Rescue? If now is not the right time for you to rescue an older dog. Or if you are getting a Labrador for a special purpose — as a hunting companion for example — you may be better off with a new puppy. If someone wants to sell you a puppy much younger than that, alarm bells should be ringing. You also need to make sure you buy your puppy from the right place. This means choosing the right breeder. And avoiding puppy mills and pet stores. If you want a puppy for hunting, you need to go to a breeder that specialises in field-bred dogs. If you want to get involved in the world of showing, you need to go to a breeder that breeds Labradors for the show ring. It is possible to train a show dog for work, though he or she is unlikely to get far in high level field competitions. It is not normally possible to succeed in the show ring with a field bred dog. Keep this in mind. Chocolate Labrador Puppy Health Labradors of all colors suffer from inherited disorders. Please, please make sure your puppy is from health tested parents — it may all end in tears if you omit this important step. Their parents should have good hip scores, good elbow scores, clear eye tests and be PRA clear too. But does picking a chocolate Lab puppy set you off on the wrong foot in terms of health from the start? Are Chocolate Labs Unhealthy? In a study hit the headlines hard, and had a lot of chocolate Lab owners in a panic. Their research suggested that there is a link between Lab color and not just health, but lifespan too. Over 33, Labs were studies, with .Giving a good sample size. Chocolate Labs in the study were more likely to have dermatitis, which matches with some colloquial findings of owners of silver Labs with skin problems. Ear problems are also more common, and this is in fact something Rachael has even suffered with in the past. Gastrointestinal issues were more common with chocolate Labradors too. Chocolate Labradors live on average for just .At least according to this study. Interestingly, they were least likely to have degenerative joint disease or dental problems. It reduces the chances of your pup becoming ill. But it is also important to look at the coefficient of inbreeding. Chocolate Labs get their color from a recessive gene. This means that to ensure you have a litter of chocolate puppies you need to breed from two chocolate parents. Reducing gene pools will always increase health problems. Finding a puppy with a very low coefficient of inbreeding will help you to avoid some of these problems. In addition to health testing, of course. It would also be sensible to avoid a chocolate Lab puppy with parents with a history of ear or skin problems. You can find out more about health issues in Labradors in this article: Health screening for Labrador Diseases. And there is lots of information on finding a good breeder here: Labrador breeders — how to find a good one Training and Exercising your Chocolate Labrador My advice for training and exercising your chocolate Labrador is to figure out what type of lines your dog is from and adjust your expectations accordingly. Then to follow a good positive reinforcement training programme. Make sure you exercise his mind as well as his body. Even if you never intend to take him hunting, he still needs a job to do, retrieves to complete, toys to find, streams to cross and so on. If your dog is from show lines, he too needs training and plenty of exercise, but he may also need plenty of play. Toys and games, and other dogs to interact with. Training my Chocolate Lab Even at seven years old, Rachael still loves to play with other dogs and with people. She is hugely enthusiastic about meeting people and dogs and prone to be over-friendly. And I have to make a special effort to ensure that she is not allowed to interact with visitors until she is sitting calmly. On the plus side, I have had to spend less time socialising Rachael than I would with a field bred lab. As she takes everything in her stride. Too friendly! You may find she is intensely friendly and rather distractible, so this aspect of his education is important. Above all, treat your chocolate labrador like an individual. He is far more than just a product of his breeding and environment. He is a unique character, there will never be another quite like him Caring for an old Chocolate Lab As the years pass by, we leave behind one set of challenges and they are replaced by new ones. Failing eyesight, stiff joints, and declining hearing. However, these senior years can still be happy and fun filled for many dogs, especially if you keep your dog slim. If your chocolate friend is quite heavily built as many chocolates are, you need to be extra careful to keep an eye on his weight as he ages. More body weight means more stress and strain on joints, this can aggravate problems like arthritis in older dogs. I personally think that elderly chocolate Labradors are particularly beautiful, with their greying muzzles and kind eyes. Of course, you will want to make your old friend as comfortable as you can. Tell us what is so special about your chocolate Labrador and why you think they are the best.

More Use tab to navigate through the menu items. These loveable dogs have a natural affinity with children and their joyful gentle characters make them ideal companions to the young and old alike. Intelligent, fun and highly trainable. The Australian Labradoodle needs close human companionship and to live as a family member, to reach its full potential. These dogs have been bred as family companions and that is what they do best. They seek eye contact with humans and will intuitively tune into your emotions, wanting to cheer you up when you are sad, be gentle and close to you when you are ill and make you laugh with their funny antics when you play with them. Regency Reds Puppies Our Australian Labradoodle puppies are bred in the family home, close to family members and our other pets, therefor being exposed to everyday sounds and experiences and learning socialisation with family and friends from an early age. We specialise in red and caramel Australian Labradoodles some with white markings. We breed large miniature, small and large mediums. We usually have a waiting list of one year to 18months. Occasionally there may be a puppy available due to a larger than expected litter and others on the list not yet being ready to welcome a puppy. Check out pups available. To see what the pairings are likely to be for the next few months check out the planned litters page. Get you name on the list by emailing your interest to kim regencyreds. We only breed from dogs with good temperaments as an Australian Labradoodle breeder should. We understand the important traits that need to be passed down the line. Our dogs are fed on only the best quality food making sure all puppies get the best start to their lives. See feeding. My other dogs are with loving guardian families, who have been carefully chosen because they can offer a great life to a wonderful dog. Australian Labradoodles are mischievous, playful and intelligent, they learn fast and want to please. About Us. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Kent Washington and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted.

If you click on a link and choose to make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no cost to you. Chances are, regardless of where you live apartment, condo, or house , you have stairs. And, if you are a Golden Retriever owner, then it is inevitable that your dog will need to climb those stairs. So, that begs the question: can Golden Retrievers climb stairs? Adult Golden Retrievers can climb stairs with no issues if they are in good health. However, stairs may pose a problem if the dog is older or suffering from health issues that affect mobility. Climbing stairs may also be difficult and risky for young puppies, so they should be monitored to prevent falls. Stairs are fine for healthy adult Golden Retrievers Climbing stairs at some point is almost a given for a Golden Retriever. However, there are a few instances when care must be taken, which will be discussed. Additionally, we will also explore some benefits of stairs and if there is an age restriction on when a dog should climb stairs. For pet owners with Golden Retriever puppies, stairs are an understandable concern. Often their little bodies have difficulty navigating and climbing stairs. So, understandably pet owners may wonder when at what age can a Golden Retriever puppy climb stairs. Healthy Golden Retrievers puppies can safely climb stairs at 12 weeks of age. However, Golden Retrievers can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Therefore, preventing or limiting access to stairs until they are eight months of age or older can help decrease abnormal development of the joints. So, it depends. If you believe your Golden Retriever puppy will have no hip or elbow issues, then 12 weeks is the minimum safe age. However, consider that Golden Retrievers are often highly prone to hip dysplasia and have a medium risk for elbow dysplasia. Both dysplasias are inherited. The concern is that before eight months of age, the stress from stairs on the hip joints may interfere with the normal development of the sockets. Stairs can be dangerous for young puppies. If you purchased your dog from a high-level breeder, they might have assessed their breeding stock to ensure no hip and elbow issues. These dogs are often examined between four to 24 months of age and then certified as having no problems. Alternatively, if no certification is done and you trust the breeder, you can take their word that there are no issues. While hip and elbow certifications are no guarantee of an issue-free dog, it does add some degree of confidence. Our Golden Retriever did not come from parents with hip and elbow certifications. However, the breeder noted the parents had no joint issues, and we were comfortable letting Bailey on small flights of stairs two to three stairs only. However, we blocked access to any large flight of stairs, including the upstairs and basement. As a result, Bailey was almost a year old before he had access to the upstairs. I discuss some tips in the next section on how to make stairs safe, and the last tip outlines how to prevent access to stairs. Golden Retrievers are highly active and high-energy dogs. Therefore, stairs for most Golden Retrievers are of no issue and instead can be a great source of exercise. But is there any situation where climbing stairs is bad for Golden Retrievers? Stairs can be bad for Golden Retrievers if they have mobility issues or are prone to dysplasia. Golden Retrievers puppies under 12 weeks old should not be allowed on stairs due to the increased risk of falls and serious injury. However, stairs are not bad for healthy adult Golden Retrievers. So, stairs are typically acceptable for healthy Golden Retrievers at the appropriate age. Stairs become problematic when there are mobility issues such as bad knees, hips, or back. In those instances, care must be taken to prevent falls and not aggravate existing mobility issues. Due to their increased risk for hip and elbow dysplasia, it is recommended to prevent access to large flights of stairs until eight months of age or older. The other potential risk for stairs is to very young puppies less than 12 weeks old. Very young puppies do not have the size or coordination to navigate stairs. The risk of injury to their still fragile bodies is a concern. Senior Golden Retrievers with no severe mobility or health issues are okay with climbing stairs. In fact, as we will discuss in the next section, stairs can benefit Golden Retrievers, including older dogs or even ones with arthritis. Typically older dogs take the stairs slower, which is fine. Stairs are not bad for healthy adult or senior Golden Retrievers Safety Tips for Stairs However, stairs can still pose falling issues even to healthy Golden Retrievers. To ensure stairs are as safe as possible for your Golden Retriever, consider the following tips: Clean up any dirt or spills, as they have the potential for the dog to slip. Water can be incredibly slippery on hardwood floors for your dog, so make sure its paws are dry, and any water on the stairs is cleaned up. Add stair runners or carpet to hardwood stairs for extra traction. Ensure the stairs are well-lit. Dark stairs or poorly lighted stairs increase the chance of a misstep. Remove items off the stairs to prevent tripping hazards. If your dog is old or has severe mobility issues consider installing a dog ramp. If stair railings have wide openings, be careful of small puppies falling through or getting their heads stuck choking hazard. Block them off until the puppy is large enough and can no longer fit through railings. Consider installing baby gates or any blockade to prevent access to stairs for puppies when you are not around or able to supervise them. Watch for Wet Paws and Spills Hardwood can be slippery and especially when it is wet. If your dog has wet paws, hardwood becomes slippery to them. Moreover, wet feet can transfer water to stairs increasing the likelihood of a fall for all household members not just the dog. Add Traction Carpeting stairs add traction, but if that is not feasible, consider adding light-colored stair runners. They are relatively inexpensive, but they add traction and increase visibility. You could also consider adding toe grips. Well-lit stairs are safer for your Golden Retriever and you as well. Some dogs have poor eyesight, and their vision can worsen with age. So, having good visibility on stairs helps reduce missteps and potential falls. Often you can find inexpensive lighting options that are battery-operated and attach to walls, negating the need for extensive electrical wiring or hiring an electrician. Dog ramps work well for small flights of stairs such as two to three stairs only, and make it much easier for senior dogs or dogs with mobility issues to go up. Just make sure you select a dog ramp with good traction. Do not overlook stair railings. Small puppies can and have fallen through the space between stair railings. At the top of high stairs, such falls can cause severe injuries and even death. Even if the puppy is too big to fall through, it may try to stick its head through the railings. If its head gets stuck, this could become a choking hazard. Puppies can fall through or get stuck and choke in stair railings. Be careful. A temporary solution that works well is cutting strips of cardboard and attaching them across the bottom of the railing so the puppy cannot fall through. Once your dog is big enough to no longer fit, remove the cardboard. Old Amazon boxes, cereal boxes, or pretty much any old cardboard will do, and it is inexpensive. We had an issue with the railings when my curious Golden Retriever Bailey was a puppy. As the above picture shows, Bailey could squeeze through the railings, so we ran pieces of cardboard along the bottom to prevent access and falls. Block Stairs Additionally, consider gates to block stairs if there is a potential for falls when you are not home or the puppy is out of sight. The images below illustrate a gate we placed on the stairs to the basement, just off the TV room. It was too easy of an opportunity for Bailey to get to the stairs, and it was dark, so we blocked it off plus the cat sleeps down there. Our homemade gate to prevent Bailey from accessing the stairs For the staircase going upstairs, we just rolled his feeder container and a chair in front. It was enough to block him, and it cost us nothing. As a precaution, Golden Retrievers should wait to climb stairs until they are eight months of age or older. Doing so helps mitigate any potential for stairs to aggravate the normal growth of joints. Once the Golden Retriever is of an appropriate age, stairs are fine and present little issues. In fact, climbing stairs can actually provide some benefits. Some benefits of stairs include: Stairs can build strength in the legs, back muscles, shoulders, and hips. Climbing stairs can increase the range of motion, including in those dogs with arthritis. Obviously, access to hills is much better than stairs for the benefits listed. Hills provide the same resistance with less stress on joints. As well, the gradual grade of hills makes falls less likely. However, for a healthy Golden Retriever taking the stairs at home provides minor issues for an appropriate aged Golden Retriever. Additionally, stairs also help strengthen muscles and improve coordination. In turn, increasing muscle strength helps build coordination and keeps tendons strong, which helps preserve healthy joint movement. In fact, walking UP stairs can be a great way to help improve active range of motion, muscle strength, and proprioception the awareness of the position and movement of the body. Source However, CARE cautions that walking downwards on stairs is problematic due to the increased force on the front legs and the need for more control to go down slowly. If your Golden Retriever is arthritic, consider hills with gentle inclines and declines hills are less stress-inducing than stairs. At home, consider using dog ramps. CARE also suggests adding carpeting or runners on stairs and using a harness to support an arthritic dog to help it feel more secure when navigating stairs. So, while stairs can be an excellent supplement for Golden Retrievers, they should not be the primary source of exercise. Instead, take your dog for a long walk, and if there are some soft hills included, all the better. Adequate amounts of walking, even on flat surfaces, will benefit your Golden Retriever more — both for developing muscle and tendons and its heart. Swimming is also a great activity for dogs with arthritis or joint issues. Final Thoughts Generally speaking, most healthy Golden Retriever adults will have no issue with stairs. However, stairs should be avoided for ALL puppies under 12 weeks. If you have concerns about hip or elbow dysplasia or other joint problems, keep your Golden Retriever off the stairs until eight months old, at a minimum. After eight months of age, your Golden Retriever should have no issues running up and downstairs. However, make sure stairs are not overly slippery and are well-lighted and clear of obstructions. Lastly, start your puppy off on smaller staircases so they can learn in a safer and less intimidating environment. Avoid large staircases where your puppy might fear looking down such a long distance. In addition, consider that a puppy is more likely to be injured if it falls down 12 stairs versus two or three, so start them slowly. As such, we kept Bailey off these until he was a year old. Most Golden Retrievers learn to climb stairs very quickly as puppies. The key is to not allow them on large staircases that pose a greater risk of them becoming fearful or injured. Instead, start them on small staircases, and when they are old enough, you can let them climb stairs as their heart desires. And Is It Safe? Using the stairs will only worsen the conditions, leading to further pain and even more problems. Arthritis, hip dysplasia, and other hip and joint problems can cause severe pain and limit their mobility, and you will likely see your older dog or senior golden retriever begin to avoid the stairs on their own. Below are some tips to help your golden retriever use the stairs safely without developing hip and joint problems. Supervise Your Golden on The Stairs Supervising your golden retriever on the stairs is a great way to see if your dog struggles with stairs or is not using the stairs safely. Dogs are infamous for hiding their health problems. Therefore, you may not know right away if your dog is struggling with any joint or hip conditions. When your golden retriever is near stairs, pay attention to any signs of fear or reluctance to use them. Furthermore, if they are using the stairs slowly or awkwardly, then they may be in pain. If you see these signs, you should have your dog checked out at a vet for any hip and joint issues. Supervision is also a great way to ensure your golden retriever puppy is using the stairs safely. Make sure your puppy is not running up or down the stairs, skipping steps, or doing anything that will injure themselves or hurt the development of their hips. As mentioned before, golden retriever puppies should be carried up and down the stairs for the first twelve months of their life or until they become too heavy. This option may seem like a hassle, but it is the best way to avoid any injuries or hip problems while your puppy is still growing. Note: While good in theory, a month old golden retriever is going to be too heavy to carry for many people, so just carry them on the stairs as long as you reasonably can. Injuring yourself to try to protect your golden retriever is not a good trade-off. If your adult or senior golden retriever is having trouble on the stairs, you may need to carry them if possible on occasion. Do not force your dog to use the stairs in these cases, as that will only worsen their pain and condition. If this is happening, you will need to find a way to keep them off the stairs or reduce their pain. Gates are very effective for this and not too expensive. Baby gates can be installed at the foot or head of any set of steps you need to keep your dog away from and should help to reduce their time spent struggling up and down the stairs. Also, if your golden is used to sleeping, eating, etc. This option is best for adult golden retrievers that have developed arthritis, hip dysplasia, or other conditions. Furthermore, a dog ramp makes navigating the stairs easier and safer. You can install a dog ramp even if your dog is not experiencing any medical problems. Training your dog to use a dog ramp early on in life will help prevent hip and joint conditions from developing in the first place. The PetSafe Happy Ride Folding Pet Ramp from Amazon will provide a safe and secure surface to walk up without any climbing, saving your goldens hip joints. Use Stair Treads To Help Your Golden Navigate The Stairs If you have bare wood stairs in your home, your golden retriever may have problems with slipping and sliding while climbing or descending the steps. This can cause falls and injuries, in addition to fostering a lack of confidence regarding stairs on your dogs part. In this case, adding some non-slip stair treads can make a world of difference. These pre-cut Delxo Carpet Stair Treads Amazon have an adhesive backing and can be easily stuck to each step to provide traction for your golden retriever. Give Your Golden a Joint Supplement Many dog owners begin giving their golden retrievers joint supplements when they start displaying hip and joint discomfort, but a much better idea is to start giving your pup these supplements long before they experience pain. Giving your golden retriever a good joint supplement, such as Cosequin Max Strength Plus MSM from Amazon, containing Glucosamine and Chondroitin early on will be a much greater help than waiting until your golden is older and experiencing pain. Golden retriever puppies can begin using these hip and joint supplements as early as 8 weeks of age, although you will want to consult with your vet regarding your specific puppy before starting any supplements. Final Thoughts In most cases, a healthy golden retriever can use the stairs without any problems. Puppies and golden retrievers with hip and joint problems should either use a dog ramp or avoid the stairs altogether. You most likely guard him against bolting out the front door and running toward traffic in the street. But you may not have thought about the stairs in your house and how soon your puppy can safely begin to climb those stairs. Depending upon who you talk to, a puppy should not go up and down stairs from the age of 3 months to a full year. For small dogs, carrying a puppy up and down the stairs may work for several months. So, this can present a dilemma for owners of larger dogs. Fortunately, most veterinarians agree that the majority of puppies can begin climbing stairs when they are 3 months old. However, puppies should be supervised for several weeks to ensure their safety. And some dogs who are prone to hip dysplasia should use the stairs as little as possible. They should not be allowed to jump or bound up and down stairs in a way that could be hard on their joints. Climbing stairs for a young pup can be very hazardous due to injury or physical developmental risks. Most young pups are usually a little frightened of stairs and rightly so! Just think about how daunting it would be for us to run down a flight of stairs head first! Young pups are still developing muscles, bones, and cartilage until they are about a year old. However, this depends on size and breed. Larger dogs mature faster than smaller dogs. Additionally, puppies are still learning how to balance and coordinate their growing body and legs and can be a little clumsy in the beginning. So, stairs present a special challenge. Falling The most obvious danger when puppies try to navigate stairs for the first time is that they may fall. Hardwood stairs with no carpet or any type of traction can be very slippery and challenging for your pup to get a foothold. Even more dangerous are outside stairs that may be wider apart and made of stone, cement, or metal. Therefore, the risk of injury can be higher on outdoor stairs. Inclement weather such as rain, ice, or snow produces even greater challenges. If your puppy or young dog does try the stairs on his own and falls, be sure to take him to a vet immediately if you think he has been injured. Joint Damage Puppies are still developing their muscles and bones and undue stress at an early age can cause some joint damage. This can turn into osteoarthritis as they age, which can lead to an unsteady gait, pain, weakness, and limping. Be sure to see my post about how chiropractic care can help prevent some of this damage. This is why trainers discourage agility training for dogs under a year old, to give them time to fully develop strong muscle tone and bones. Any activity that includes intensive jumping or rigorous running or stair climbing is usually discouraged for puppies until they reach full maturation. When this happens it wears away the cartilage and eventually causes bone-on-bone rubbing and friction. This leads to pain, weakness, gait problems, and lameness. The hip joint is a ball and socket joint. During growth, both the ball the head of the femur, or thighbone and the socket in the pelvis acetabulum must grow at equal rates. In hip dysplasia, this uniform growth during puppyhood does not occur. Additionally, it can be caused by too little exercise that does not allow for muscle development, being overweight, and sometimes hormonal changes and neutering are thought to be possible causes. Dogs who are raised in cages at puppy mills with little to no exercise can be just as susceptible to hip dysplasia. This is true for dogs who are allowed or trained to jump and run too much before they are 3 or 4 months old. Breeds that are most susceptible to hip dysplasia include: Golden and Labrador Retrievers. Some dog breeds are too small or have hip issues which make climbing stairs difficult. But what is almost guaranteed is that puppies will struggle to climb stairs, whether in an upwards or down direction. Their size combined with a fear and unsteady balance will make stairs a potential hazard for them. When can puppies climb stairs? Puppies can usually climb stairs safely at the ages of 12 to 16 weeks. However, this is very much breed and size dependent, as some puppies will still not be big enough at the point to successfully navigate a staircase. Keep reading so you can let your puppy do stairs safely at the right age. Are puppies allowed to go up and downstairs? Puppies are allowed to go up and down stairs, but when they are too small, you should supervise behind them. I would suggest also carrying them downstairs if they cannot go down one step without jumping — that means they are too small and run the risk of tumbling. But in most cases, the age that puppies can do stairs is around 3 to 4 months. Is it bad for puppies to climb stairs? It can also be bad for certain breeds of dog to climb stairs. For example, stairs can be bad for puppies from the French Bulldog breed where the risk of hip dysplasia is higher. Young puppies will be naturally cautious of stairs during their formative months. More about puppies and stairs By and far the biggest challenge that puppies are faced in your home is how to overcome stairs. For young puppies, stairs can almost resemble mountains, continuing upwards for what seems like forever. Just one step at a time can prove a massive undertaking for a puppy, regardless of its age, and it can take many months until they begin to finally master the art of scaling them successfully. Unfortunately, it is not that unusual for older canines to never quite get the hang of climbing stairs, with many choosing to avoid traversing them later in life. For this reason, you must teach your puppy how to do this while they are still young. Without this skill, older dogs can quickly develop extreme anxiety towards climbing stairs, refusing to follow their owner upstairs, or enter properties where steps are abundant. However, there is one question that many dog owners fail to ask themselves before attempting this task, a question that when left unanswered can commonly result in many younger dogs developing long-lasting injuries. At what age can puppies climb stairs? In general, it is not advisable to introduce a puppy to stairs until they are at least 12 to 16 weeks old and fully confident on their legs meaning no clumsiness or wobbliness. That being said, it is not uncommon for younger pups to take on smaller steps from time to time, especially if they are very confident or boisterous. If you find your puppy can climb areas with small sets of steps in the home, do not immediately panic as this is completely normal behavior. Likewise, you should not chastise your pup as this could cause them to develop a negative association with the activity. If your pup is regularly climbing one or two steps, such as those found on a porch or patio, allow them to do so as this is unlikely to have any negative impacts on their health and will, instead, help them build confidence in tackling stairs for the first time. However, that being said, always deter your pooch from climbing larger sets of stairs such as those leading to a higher floor in the house , until they are of an appropriate age to minimize the chance of injury. Furthermore, this advice is especially relevant when it comes to larger breeds such as Labradors and Golden Retrievers, which we will explore in further depth later in the article. If you own one of these breeds or a similar-sized dog, make sure to keep them well away from stairs until they are at least 16 weeks old. In fact, failure to do this could be disastrous in the long run. Additionally, you should also realize that it takes time for smaller breeds, such as Yorkshire Terriers, West Highland Terriers, Chihuahuas, Mini Poodles, and Jack Russel Terriers, to grow to a size in which they can easily manage steps without any trouble. This is due to their diminutive size and overall shorter legs compared to medium and larger breeds. Furthermore, owners of small dogs should be careful not to force their pups into climbing stairs when they are very young, as doing so could lead to nasty injuries as a result of a fall or tumble. Although we may not realize it, stairs can be extremely high for small breeds. Unfortunately, many large breeds of dogs are prone to hip conditions, namely Hip Dysplasia, which can plague them throughout both their puppyhood and adult lives. Dogs suffering from this mainly inherited genetic condition develop issues with the ball and socket mechanism that allows their hip joint to move smoothly. Instead, the ball and socket will constantly rub and grind, causing canines significant amounts of pain. Over time, this abnormal motion will result in deterioration in the joint, with some dogs completely losing maneuverability after a few years have passed. Although not conclusive, there is some evidence that puppies can increase their risk of developing Hip Dysplasia by climbing stairs before their limbs have properly developed and strengthened. Despite being primarily hereditary in origin, some dogs can develop this condition solely through experiencing excessive stress on their joints or by suffering injuries. Once they reach a certain age, puppies will be bounding up stairs at will. Therefore, before introducing your pup to stairs, try and ascertain whether they are at risk of developing Hip Dysplasia. If they fall into this category, then prevent them from climbing stairs until they are at least 12 months old. However, it is worth mentioning that Hip Dysplasia can appear in medium or smaller-sized canines from time to time, although this is rare. If you find yourself worried about Hip Dysplasia occurring in your puppy, discuss this with your local veterinarian. Often, they will be able to inform you whether your breed of dog is at a higher risk of developing this issue in the future. With proper care and early treatment, dogs can easily live a relatively healthy and pain-free life. Is it safe to allow your puppy to climb stairs on its own? Alongside the risk of Hip Dysplasia, young puppies who regularly climb the stairs unsupervised are naturally at a greater risk of injury. Therefore, you should make sure to keep a close eye on your pup when they are attempting to navigate stairs, even if they have successfully done so before. Despite many dog owners feeling this is excessive or unnecessary, all it takes is one nasty tumble for a puppy to seriously injure itself. To minimize the chance of this happening you should always block the stairs when leaving the home, even if you are only gone for a short time. Alternatively, if you are unable to block access you can ask a friend or family member to keep an eye on your pup. In the case of older puppies 9 months plus , it is normally okay to allow them to climb stairs on their own. At this stage, they will have developed all the functions and skills to climb stairs without any problem. That being said, be careful not to leave any objects on the steps to limit the chance of your pup tripping and falling. Likewise, you should discourage your pup from playing or running up the stairs, as this can also increase the risk of an accident. Furthermore, this behavior is not only dangerous for dogs but can also result in owners being seriously hurt as well. How do you teach a puppy to use stairs? Teaching a puppy how to climb stairs is a relatively straightforward task. For example, one popular method used by dog owners is placing treats on the stairs. To start, grab some treats and place them on the first 2 or 3 steps, slowly encouraging your pup to climb each one. After they have done this successfully, place a few more treats higher up and repeat the process, continuing this until they have completely climbed to the top of the stairs. Make sure that you reward your puppy for any steps they have cleared successfully as this will reinforce their belief that they have nothing to fear. Additionally, you should remember to remain patient as it could take multiple tries before they feel comfortable. All puppies are different, and some may take weeks before they can climb the stairs without getting stuck or feeling frightened. Similarly, try to project confidence towards your puppy, regardless of whether you are nervous on the inside. They will quickly pick up on your positive attitude and feel less fearful when attempting to climb stairs for the first time. Conclusion Although home environments are mostly a safe and comfortable place for puppies to grow up, there are often several areas that can provide a challenge for even the most adventurous of pups — along with balconies , stairs are up there with the worst of them. With puppies and stairs you need to keep a close eye on them until they are older, more agile, and big enough to climb up or down. You might also like…. Got something to ask a vet? Thank you. The rest of the article continues below. Introducing your pet to stairs is all about taking it slow and having a blast! Start by making those stairs enticing. Grab some tasty treats or their favorite toy to lure them in. Begin with just a few steps at a time, allowing their little bodies to get stronger and more confident. If your pup seems unsure or refuses to go up or down, encourage them with yummy treats to get those paws moving. Patience and positivity are crucial. Cheer them on, shower them with praise, belly rubs, and high-fives for each step conquered. Safety Tips for Golden Retrievers Puppies Using the Stairs To ensure the safety of your furry pal while climbing stairs, you need to take a few precautions. First and foremost, make the space safe. If the railings of your stairs have wide gaps, install blocks or barriers to prevent small puppies from falling through or getting their heads stuck. Additionally, consider adding carpet runners or traction pads to make the stairs less slippery. This will provide your puppy with better grip and stability while climbing up or down. Next, you gotta remove any clutter that could cause your pup to trip. When training your pet to climb stairs, try using a harness or leash to maintain control. This will prevent your pup from excitedly lunging or jumping which may lead to accidents. You should also not leave your pet unsupervised during the training process. Stay close so you can quickly intervene if the need arises. A short rest allows your puppy to get their energy back, preventing fatigue-related mishaps. Climbing up or down a flight of stairs in your home can be dangerous for your puppies. One major concern is the risk of falling and getting injured. Puppies are still learning to control their limbs and may misjudge their steps or lose their balance, leading to falls that can result in sprains, strains, or even fractures. Another important consideration is the impact on their growing joints. Excessive or premature stress on the joints, such as from climbing stairs too early or too frequently, can potentially worsen these conditions or contribute to the development of joint problems later in life. Signs and Symptoms of Joint Pain or Discomfort in Golden Retrievers One common indication that your pup is suffering from joint pain is when they fall or stumble frequently while navigating stairs or jumping onto elevated surfaces. Difficulty getting up, walking, or engaging in physical activities they used to enjoy is another possible indicator of joint pain. And last but not least, if you notice any kind of limping, stiffness, reduced activity level, and excessive licking or biting of the affected joints, these are all warning signs that a vet visit might be in order. Doggy says, you might be keen to read this too: Is Bengay safe for dogs? If your furry pal is experiencing joint pain, undergoing post-operative recovery, or has a known medical problem, it is advisable to restrict their access to stairs. Additionally, during the puppy stage when their joints are still developing and growing, it is generally recommended to limit stair usage. Pregnant or elderly pets may also benefit from avoiding stairs to minimize the strain on their bodies. Alternative Exercises and Activities for Golden Retrievers Who Cannot Use Stairs When stairs are not an option for your four-legged companion, there are several other activities that can get them moving. Leash walking is a great activity to provide low-impact exercise and mental stimulation for your furry friend. Exploring different routes and environments during walks is always fun and engaging. Going for a quick dip in the water is another good idea since this breed is a natural swimmer. Look for dog-friendly pools, lakes, or beaches where they can safely enjoy the water. Puzzle toys and games are a wonderful way to engage their minds and challenge them to solve problems while obtaining treats or rewards. Additionally, playing a game of fetch in a safe area can provide physical exercise and mental stimulation. Your pet also needs to exercise their brain, not just their body. These activities help keep them active and happy, even without the use of stairs. Installing a Dog Ramp for Your Golden Retriever Installing a dog ramp can be a helpful solution, especially if stairs pose a challenge for your pet. A dog ramp is basically a sloped surface that allows dogs to walk up or down at a more gradual incline. In my opinion, it offers several benefits, including being gentler on the joints, making it a suitable option for elderly dogs or those with medical conditions. Dog ramps will work great for shorter steps stairs, and up and down sofas or cars. Collapsible Dog Ramp. Excessive ball throwing and catching. Fast-paced walks. Walking on hot days. Running a puppy alongside a bike. Dogs and puppies should not be exercised immediately before or after eating, as this can cause problems such as bloating. How to Exercise A Golden Retriever Puppy Providing puppies with the opportunity to exercise is a very important aspect of their healthy life. Not only does exercise have multiple health benefits, but it also gives them a good opportunity to socialize and bond with their owner. Check the temperature outside to avoid overheating. Make sure they wear a proper collar and tag. Make sure they are comfortable with their collar and leash. During Eeercise One way to help your puppy get exercise is by having them on a leash with you and following these tips: Walk at a normal pace. Stop to rest if your puppy keeps sitting down and continue when they get back up. Avoid over-exercising. You can also allow your puppy to exercise without a leash. Allow your pet to run freely in a safe environment, such as a backyard or designated dog park. Having them off the leash is a good way for them to regulate their own pace and exercise they want but do watch for: Watch out for signs of fatigue, including panting, slowing their pace, and lagging behind you. Watch for overheating signs such as excessive panting, drooling, vomiting or agitation. Keep your puppy hydrated. Signs that your dog is overheating and what you can do to help After exercise After your puppy has finished his exercise, make sure to offer them plenty of fresh, clean water and allow them to rest. After they have calmed down and rested, you can offer them a healthy treat or feed them. Exercise For Your Puppy In addition to giving your puppy short, daily walks, here are some other options of exercise that your pup will enjoy. Swimming Swimming is a great exercise for all dogs as it helps strengthen and tone muscles. Get your puppy familiar with water first after they are 3 months old. Fetch Golden Retrievers are meant for retrieving, so a good game of fetch will come naturally to them. Just make sure to watch for any signs of tiring. Dog toys that move There is a wide variety of interactive toys for puppies that are highly stimulating and can help with exercise. Play with other dogs Having your puppy be around other dogs is a good way to give them an exercise buddy while they work on important social skills. Whist Golden Retrievers instinctively know how to retrieve, they need to be trained from a very young age to catch. Signs Your Puppy is Getting Too Much Exercise Exercise keeps joints limber, promotes good range of motion, maintains muscle mass, and can help prevent injury. But too much of it can actually cause injury. Watch out for signs of over-exercise like sore muscles, behavioral changes, and joint injury. Sore Muscles Sore muscles are a sign that your pup is getting too much exercise. Refusing or struggling to go up and down the stairs. Refusing to eat because it hurts to lower down. If you notice signs of soreness, give them time to rest and lower the amount of exercise they are getting. Continuing to exercise, at this point, can lead to injury. Behavioral changes If your puppy usually enjoys going for walks with you but starts to shy away from walking or whimpers when you begin the walk, this is showing you that something is not right. Inconsistent conditioning can lead to changes in behavior as well as injury. If there is a joint injury, your puppy will begin to limp or favor one leg over the other. Another sign that is said to be a sign of joint injury is if you notice your dog putting its head down while walking on the good leg but lifting its head when walking on the bad leg. Heat sickness Heat exhaustion is a concern during the warmer months. Younger dogs have difficulty regulating body temperatures, so too much exercise can cause them to overheat. Signs of heat exhaustion are excessive panting, disinterest in eating, and drooling. Stopping suddenly can also scrape the bottom of the paws, causing the outer layer of the pad to wear off. It is good not to drag your dog while they are leashed, instead, be patient with them and listen to their cues. Golden Retrievers are popular dogs for outdoor activities. That is why we feature them here at Outdoor Dog Fun with these articles:. Golden retrievers range in weight when fully grown but are considered to be in the medium to large class of dog. A common thing that many golden retriever owners will know is that large dog breeds are more likely to suffer from joint issues. In order to avoid hip dysplasia or at least lessen its effects, you can begin by feeding your golden retriever a healthy and balanced diet, as well as ensuring they get plenty of exercise including swimming, which golden retrievers love! Furthermore, making sure that your golden retriever undergoes proper physical development when it is a puppy is key to ensuring that you can help maintain the joint health of your beloved dog. Stairs can be bad for puppies joints if they attempt to climb them while they are still too young. It goes without saying, but stairs are designed with humans in mind ask a shih tzu about this. As such, a staircase is really only meant to climbed by a human, though many four-legged species manage the mechanics of it well enough. In order for a dog to climb stairs, they must exert energy into their muscles and joints that is very different from the pressure they would put on them if they were just walking or running normally. As such, a golden retriever puppy should be carried up stairs until they reach a certain age. Important Note: Most medium sized breeds can start using staircases when they are about twelve weeks old, while larger breeds should really be waiting until they are at least sixteen weeks old. Thus, for golden retrievers, it is a good idea to wait between twelve and sixteen weeks before training them to climb stairs. In order to further avoid the risk of developing or worsening hip dysplasia, ensuring that your aging golden retriever does not need to climb stairs past a certain age is essential! If your golden retriever is getting older and still climbing stairs like in apartments, you should take precautions to make certain that they will not need to do so for much longer. For example, if your house is composed of more than one floor, make sure that everything your golden retriever could need is on the first floor, including their food, water, bed, and toys. If your dog prefers to sleep with a family member on an upper floor, trying to gradually discourage this behavior to avoid them climbing the stairs as they continue to age. Using a pet gate could also be an ideal solution to discourage your golden from taking stairs that are harmful to them in their senior years. As mentioned previously, stairs were designed for humans to use, not puppies. Because of this, puppies will look on the contraption with confusion and might even develop anxiety about them. You might find yourself at a loss when it comes time to teach them how to climb the stairs, but rest assured that there are many methods that are tried and true. Once your golden retriever has reached at least twelve weeks of age, the first step in training them to climb the stairs is to ensure that they are already reasonably comfortable and obedient on a leash. When you feel that your golden retriever puppy is ready to take its first steps on a staircase, leash them and have them sit on the bottom of the staircase. Using the leash as a gentle guide, coax your puppy up the stairs alongside you. If they are well-trained on a leash, they will understand that they are meant to follow you. Positive encouragement like kind words, gentle pets, and healthy treats are really helpful throughout this process, especially if your golden retriever is particularly nervous. When your golden retriever puppy has successfully climbed their first set of stairs, make sure they know how proud you are of them. Following this, you can then begin the process of teaching them how to climb down the stairs. Sometimes, climbing down a staircase can be even more daunting for a puppy than climbing up. Keep in mind that their perception of the world around them is much different than yours, so what is just a set of stairs to your mind could appear to be a treacherous cliff to theirs. Never use harsh tones or exhibit frustration when training them to climb stairs, as this will discourage your golden retriever and might even cause anxiety. An anxious puppy could lose focus and trip over their feet, resulting in a possible stumble down the stairs and a potential joint injury.