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We are a family-owned breeder located out in the country in Loudonville, Ohio where we have 30 acres of beautiful farmland for the puppies to run. It is our goal to make sure all of our Golden Retriever Puppies are ready for their new family, so being a family of 11, the puppies are well socialized. We pride ourselves on making the adoption process easy, convenient, and comfortable. If you are looking to adopt a Mini Golden Retriever and do not live nearby, we offer specialized delivery right to your door. Thank you for visiting - we look forward to meeting you! Our Mini Golden Retrievers are magical! They also can be mixed with only Golden Retriever and Poodle. We strive to duplicate the Standard Golden Retriever but with added benefits. These benefits include fewer health problems, more manageable size and weight, and less shedding. Available Puppies Nationwide Puppy Delivery We offer specialized and custom delivery to any destination in the lower .We want your new puppy to arrive home safe and happy, which is why we have a designated puppy delivery team to hand deliver your special new family member! We can deliver by car or by plane and are flexible to meet your needs. More About Delivery Options Recommended Food For Your New Puppy We know that it's important for us to consume a healthy diet to maintain our health and keep us away from the doctor, and your puppy is no different. Proper nutrition plays a vital in supporting growth, muscle development, a strong immune system, and overall health so your puppy can live as long as possible. It is important not to cut corners and give your puppy food that is filled with non-nutritional fillers. PawTree is an AMAZING company that offers incredible products, and we have never found another company that is so focused on the health and growth its customers' puppies. Their recipes are clean and don't have any artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or poultry by-products. They offer interesting seasonings to change up your puppy's food flavors, a variety of treats, toys, shampoos, potty training products, and more. Use the link below to begin shopping for the best dog food you can get! Order pawTree Products Recommended Supplements For Your New Puppy Weaning your new puppy can be quite a change in your puppy's life and your puppy won't have the antioxidants it used to have while nursing. So let's take look at your future puppy a bit closer. If your puppy is recently weaned, it may not be receiving all of the strong nutrients and antioxidants like they used to during weaning. This, along with the added stress of rehoming, can be a bit concerning for your puppy's health. With all that your new puppy is experiencing during this period of time, it is important for us to watch them closely and get their immune system up so they can naturally fight off certain ailments such as environmental and food toxins like backyard pesticides, hormones, and germs from public places. You may be thinking, "WOW, sounds pretty worrisome! These supplements come in a wafer or powder form. The wafer form can even be offered as a treat since puppies enjoy the taste so much. With these supplement boosts you can rest easier knowing you are improving your new puppy's overall health. NuVet Plus has natural ingredients and they go to great lengths to create this product in a safe yet effective form. We have not found any alternative that we recommend more! We suggest taking advantage of this product and ordering NuVet Plus even before your puppy is either delivered or picked up. When ordering, use code for our special discount. Welcome to Glory Dawn Goldens! Hello, we are Steven and Kaitlyn Miller. We also have a one year old daughter Nevaeh Sue. We are located near Orrville Ohio. We have been breeding golden retrievers since and launched Blue Chip Companion in with the idea of expanding our reach outside our local community and friends. We are however excited to be switching gears and partnering with Jeremy and Glory Dawn Goldens to promote this amazing breed further than we ever could on our own. I, have always been in love with golden retrievers and when the opportunity came to partner with Jeremy, I knew that this was exactly what I want to do for the rest of my life. Why Choose Us? We Are Family Our Dogs truly are family and we care for them as God's creation with love and respect. We invite you to come visit our home and get to know us. Our dogs are no exception. They are fed top quality dog feed and 5 supplements and immune boosters. Selective Breeding We have a high standard of breeding qualities that our dogs meet before they enter our breeding program. Travel Experience As much as we love meeting our puppies' new family we are happy to say we've had great success with with our puppies traveling all over north America. Clean Bill Of Health It is rare to find Goldens with a complete clear sheet on all genetic disorders. We have been blessed that many of our dogs cleared all genetic testing. They've been willing to share testimonials. Thank you! Transportation We will provide transportation for your puppy if needed and have had great success with our puppies traveling all over the USA. We handle all travel arrangements and details. Pet Nanny flights may be more expensive depending on location. Contact Us. Purebred Golden Retriever Puppies Buying a puppy is a big decision. We made that decision easy. Not knowing where your puppy has come from could lead to genetic health and socialization issues, and ultimately disappointment. There are even tons of puppy scams on the internet, some of which even try to imitate us! We believe dogs are not like family — they ARE family! Unlike other puppy adoption agencies in Ohio, we allow and actually encourage you to meet our Golden Retriever puppies for sale before you agree to take one home. Remember, too, that when it comes to getting a puppy, ultimately, you get what you pay for. You get a Golden Retriever you love, vetted for good health, from a breeder you trust. He has a very fun loving spirit and has made our family complete. Marcus and his family are very gracious and great to work with. We would highly recommend them for anyone looking for a Golden! She will be turning 9 months in a few weeks. I had a wonderful experience getting her through your company! So glad I got her. All Rights Reserved.
We are a very small hobby breeder and raise puppies as part of the family. We do not believe in raising companion puppies in "facilities" as it does not provide proper socialization and personality development of a companion dog. We raise our puppies in our home and sound, holistic physiological and psychological development of our little ones is of the utmost priority! We believe in quality over quantity and only have few adult companions that occasionally allow us the joy of raising some of the most wonderful four legged kiddos! Our mission Our history Our history We specialize in producing quality canine companions and proudly raise healthy, fantastic, sweet, wonderful quality, registered pugs. Breed standards, health, and temperament of our dogs are our top priority. Our dogs are our family and enjoy trips to the park, to the beach, or just hanging out at home. It takes a combination of factors to produce happy and healthy, qualitypuppies and we truly believe, and our previous customers agree, that we have what it takes to accomplish that. We raise our puppies in our home and sound, holistic physiological, and psychological development of our little ones is of the utmost priority! We believe in quality over quantity and only have a few adult companions that occasionally allow us the joy of raising some of the most wonderful four legged kiddos! We specialize in producing quality canine companions and proudly raise healthy, fantastic, sweet, wonderful quality, registered pugs. It takes a combination of factors to produce happy and healthy, quality puppies and we truly believe, and our previous customers agree, that we have what it takes to accomplish that. It is our policy to sell puppies vet checked and they will have their health guarantee when they go to their new homes. They will also have their first sets if shots, will receive their dewormings, flea and tick preventative and heartworm preventative. View more available dogs Pug Rescue of Austin typically has more than fifty available dogs at any given time. Not all available dogs are listed on our website and new dogs come in often. Once you have been approved to adopt, an adoption coordinator will review all available dogs with you to help you find the best new addition to your family. We Save Lives Our goal is to never say no to a pug or pug mix in need. Most of the pugs we rescue have been in abusive, neglectful situations. Here are some of their stories: Aug 22, Help Cole Heal Aug 22, Cole, a survivor of a car accident, needs your help to recover. He's facing major pelvic fractures and requires surgery. With feeling in his lower extremities and continence, Cole's determined to walk again. Join us in supporting his journey to healing. She was found starved, covered in infections, infested with parasites, and suffering from various health issues. We are providing her with intensive care at Westlake Animal Hospital, but her recovery will be a long and slow process. We need your support to give Pillsbury the chance to heal and live a pain-free life. Jun 26, .Poppy, 12yrs, comes to PugHearts as an owner surrender. Poppy comes in with her bonded partner Posey. Both of these girls are amazing. They are active and snuggly. And each have their own personality - Poppy is sassy, bossy when she wants to eat and has the sweetest tail wag ever. Poppy wants nothing more than to have someone to talk to and love on. Sadly Poppy has a mass on her jaw, that is growing and not treatable. But she enjoys every day wondering around the yard, chatting with Posey and wagging that tail in all the directions. Adopt Testimonials We had an amazing experience with Pughearts! The process was thorough which I appreciated. The volunteers and organization are extremely passionate about their rescue dogs and their well being. We are so grateful for our fur babies and for Pughearts! We live out of state and Pug Hearts went above and beyond to come and inspect our home. Every step of the way all the volunteers I worked with were kind and quick to answer all my many questions through the adoption process. When I flew to Houston to meet the pug we were hoping to adopt, my flight was significantly delayed and our pug's foster mom took the next day off just so I could come meet with her! Our pug came to us in great health, fully checked by the Pug Hearts vet team, with detailed vet records for her continued care. We continue to stay in touch with the volunteers and our Pug's foster mom sending updates and sharing stories, Not only did we add the sweetest pug girl to our family, we feel like we came away with new friends! We will always adopt from Pug Hearts from now on and highly recommend them for your family too! Everyone we spoke with and worked with was very nice and answered all of our questions quickly. Ann was awesome about coming to do the home visit for us since we live in a remote location in Colorado. Karen was awesome about giving us all the information we needed and making sure our pup was all set to travel back from Houston. We would recommend Pug Hearts for anyone looking to help find a pug a forever home! I have nothing but wonderful things to say about this rescue! Our pug had been found wandering the streets , was underweight and had severe behavioral issues. His foster mother worked with him for 4 months to get him ready to come home with us. Not only did we get a new family member but I made a great friend as well. They take in pugs of any age with any medical problem and provide them with not only the medical care they need but the love they deserve. No pug is left behind. They are extremely thorough in the application process and truly care about the well-being of every single animal that they help. The organization has a wonderful group of volunteers, donors, and Fosters. The intake coordinator and the Director are absolutely wonderful to communicate with. They are very knowledgeable and caring. I have adopted three pugs from them and anytime I have questions or concerns they are quick to reply with a solution. Hands-down the best rescue in the entire world!! All Pudgy Pug puppies are well cared for, fully socialized, and loved. They love their dogs and show commitment to the betterment of the breed in everything they do. But how can you spot reputable breeders when you start searching for a Pug puppy? Here are some tips to help you out. A good breeder will… 1. Issue a health guarantee Make sure that your breeder of choice offers a health guarantee. A reputable Pug breeder will write up a binding health guarantee for all of their puppies. The guarantee protects you against any genetic defects or diseases. It shows that the breeder is confident that their puppies are bred according to best practices. This means if you can no longer look after your pup for some reason, you will be expected to return the puppy to the breeder rather than taking them to a shelter. Provide standard health clearances Your breeder should have full health clearances for both parent Pugs. Good breeders often provide some early health-check clearances for their pups too, although some health clearances simply cannot be carried on such young pups. Issue a written bill of sale Reputable breeders offer written bills of sale to all of their new Pug parents. This bill of sale should be signed and will outline all the roles and responsibilities to be taken on by the buyer and seller as part of the transaction. Vaccinate their puppies All puppies should be up to date on their vaccinations before being homed with new families. Your breeder of choice should be able to provide evidence of these vaccinations. Reputable breeders welcome prospective parents into their homes to see the puppies. Follow age guidelines Puppies should never leave the litter before 8 weeks of age. Any breeder offering pups for adoption before this time is not following best practices. In fact, this could be quite damaging for the puppy developmentally. A reputable breeder will keep their pups at home until eight to twelve weeks so that they can be properly socialized and spend that crucial time with their mother and litter-mates. Answer your questions Last, but not least, a reputable breeder will be knowledgeable. In most cases, they will also want to ask you plenty of questions to ensure that their precious pups are going to good homes. We have a strict selection process that takes a variety of factors into account. That way we can ensure that only the best breeders end up on our lists. This way we know that our chosen breeders offer genetically sound and healthy puppies. Health testing shows a commitment to the health and wellbeing of each Pug. Contact information Any breeder that does not offer up their contact information is a big red flag. A reputable breeder will make it easy for you to get in contact with them by providing telephone numbers, email addresses, and they will usually have a well-established website as well. It shows a commitment to breeding best practices. Event participation Breeders who also compete in doggie events are often some of the best. Because these people tend to be dog lovers par excellence. They live and breathe for their Pugs and are proud to show them off in public. They are also more likely to have a high level of breed knowledge — an excellent sign for a breeder. Breed club membership There are lots of breed clubs out there that breeders can register with. These clubs have rules, regulations, and membership fees. If your breeder is registered with the Pug Dog Club of America, this is a great sign showing commitment to the Pug breed. Recognition awards Lastly, we look out for awards! Institutions like the AKC recognize the efforts and achievements of top breeders. The very best will be awarded the AKC recognition of merit award. During this time we recommend getting everything ready before your new arrival rattles through the front door. Your puppy will need: a crate for sleeping and training during the early days quality puppy-grade food a leash and harness plenty of toys You may also wish to purchase a puppy gate if there are areas of your home that you want to keep your Pug away from. This is all about making your home as safe as possible for your new arrival. Make sure anything that could potentially cause harm to your pup is removed. Clear your schedule Having a Pug puppy is a bit like having a human baby. So make sure to clear your schedule and get all of those errands done ahead of time! Once they arrive… 4. Avoid crowds Hold your excitement. That means no crowds. Try to keep the home environment as stress-free as possible so that your puppy can settle in and start to feel part of the family. Crate training is the first step. Lay down a regular routine from the get to and your Pug will be good as gold in no time.
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 Bullboxer Pit Highlights The Bullboxer Pit is a mixed breed dog. Bullboxer Pits may tend to overeat. Owners must be diligent about monitoring diet. Bullboxer Pits have often been used as farm or guard dogs, due mostly to their loyal nature and powerful strength. The most regularly seen coat colors are brown, tan, yellow, and black. Although their coats are easy to maintain, Bullboxer Pits do shed all year long. Brushing can help. Due to their exercise requirements, physical strength, and need for training, this breed might not be best for novice dog owners. Boxers came on the scene in Germany back in the s; the dogs were often used to transport supplies and ferry messages to troops during the first two World Wars. The American Pit Bull Terrier was first employed in blood sports and used in baiting bears and bulls. The first ever Bullboxer Pits can be traced back to a German dog breed called the Bullenbeisser, which is now extinct. Due to the care and attention Bullboxer Pits require from an owner, many of them can end up in shelters. Bullboxer Pit Size The Bullboxer Pit is often described as a medium-sized dog, although they are also stockier and sturdier than many other middle-sized canines. Most weigh in at 50 to 80 pounds and range in height from 16 to 20 inches. Female Bullboxer Pits can often be a little smaller than their male counterparts. Bullboxer Pit Personality Bullboxer Pits have often been used as farm or guard dogs, due mostly to their loyal nature and powerful strength. These dogs can be especially devoted to their families, and often become very protective of any children in the household. Very upbeat walks—or even jogs—are required, so the owner must also be able to maintain a healthy and regular exercise routine. Around two hours of exercise per day is required—adding agility training or even swimming to the daily sessions can help vary things up. Apartment dwellers may find that many buildings do not permit Bullboxer Pits to live with them. Some of the more common health problems Bullboxer Pits suffer from include: Obesity due to overeating. Pitoxer Description The Bullboxer Pit is not a purebred dog. 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 any of the breeds in the hybrid. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. He's 11 months old soon to be 1 and enjoys chew toys, meat sticks, long walks on the beach literally and generally giving everyone love. He was a bit shy at first, but once he got to know me he came around. He has a high dislike for other dogs from being attacked at a young age, but he is a good dog all around. He is a energetic little guy who is constantly pestering his mom to play with him. He loves his treats and is starting to learn basic commands very quickly. When the day is over and it's time to call it a night he's the first one to cuddle up with you and is off to dreaming most likely of chasing his mom around the yard within minutes. He has been a great addition to the family, and unlike his parents when they were his age he has been great at not chewing on things other than his chew toys. I've only lost one hat to his playfull chewing, which is considerably better than countless shoes, cords, hats etc that his parents had destroyed by the time they were 4 months old. I look forward to watching him grow up and turn into what I'm sure will be the most popular and handsome dog on the block. She is a great dog. She is very loving and has more Pit Bull characteristics than Boxer. She has the Boxer lips and lower jaw that sticks out a little further than the upper. He is very fast, hence his name. Rocket is a fast learner. He learned many tricks including high five, shake, sit and lie down at only 4 months old. Rocket loves to learn! He loves Meaty Bones. He is a loving dog like a Boxer but also strong and muscular like an American Pit Bull. I rescued Rocket from people who were feeding him raw meat and kicking him just when he was about a month old. He is the best dog I have ever had. His mother was a Pit Bull and his father a Boxer. He's very sweet and sleeps a lot. He's a climber! He's also very smart. He already knows sit, stay, lie down, come here, his name, go potty, as well as a variety of other words that indicate where to go crate, bedroom, outside. He is so gentle that he can attack a balloon playfully for 35 minutes before popping it.Everyone loves him and he's changing everyone's attitudes about Pit Bull type dogs or Pit Bull mixes.
Why you should get a Doberman German Shepherd Mix 1. What does a German Shepherd and Doberman mix look like? Half Doberman and half German Shepherd, Doberman Shepherds are muscular, compact dogs , with long muzzles and dark eyes that hint at their smart nature. The ears of the German Shepherd Doberman mix are typically upright, like those on the Doberman Pinscher. These puppies have a soft but short coat that may come in black, tan, or black and tan colors. How big will a German Shepherd and Doberman mix get? Doberman-German Shepherd puppies grow up to be large dogs , reaching up to 22 to 26 inches 55 to 66 cm in height and weighing 90 to pounds 40 to 45 kilograms in adulthood. What are the characteristics of a German Shepherd and Doberman Mix? Doberman Shepherd dogs come from pure breeds that are similar in temperament. This crossbreed is also known for its affectionate nature and its loyalty to its owners. This dog needs plenty of space, and it thrives in homes with huge backyards where it can run around. The German Shepherd Doberman mix will also be more comfortable in warmer climates. This crossbreed may have inherited this trait from the Doberman Pinscher, which has a low tolerance for cold weather because of its low body fat and short coat. What makes the Doberman Shepherd an excellent guard dog? The Doberman German Shepherd mix is the cross of two of the most well-known guard dogs in the world. Its sheer size and strong muscles give the German Shepherd-Doberman dog a considerable advantage when it comes to subduing attackers or intruders, whether people or other smaller animals. Another thing that makes the German Shepherd Doberman mix a reliable guard dog is its bone-breaking bite. This Doberman Shepherd has a high bite force due to its size , plus its parent breeds have some of the highest-rated bite forces among dogs today. Doberman Shepherds are also highly observant and alert. These dogs use a loud, attention-grabbing bark to let you know of potentially dangerous situations and unusual activity on your property. Properly training your Doberman Shepherd ensures that you can keep its aggression under control while making the most of its guarding skills. The best way to train a Doberman German Shepherd Mix is to use positive reinforcement. These hybrids are generally easy to train because of their intelligence and willingness to learn. Make sure to train and socialize your German Shepherd Doberman mix at an early age. This way, your dog can safely interact with other people and animals as it grows. Leave your German Shepherd Doberman mix in this area for increasing periods and pet it when you come back. How do I keep my Doberman Shepherd as healthy as possible? A healthy German Shepherd Doberman mix has a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. Follow these tips to ensure that your dog has a long, happy life: Give your Doberman German Shepherd Mix at least 90 minutes of exercise and activity per day. Take your dog on long walks around your neighborhood or visit the dog park at least thrice a week. Your Doberman Shepherd will also love playing mentally challenging games. A daily diet of 4 to 5 cups of dry dog food, divided into at least two meals, ensures that your Doberman Shepherd maintains a healthy weight. With a proper diet, your Doberman and German Shepherd crossbreed can avoid obesity, which is a common problem in large dogs. This way, your German Shepherd Doberman mix can get the energy it needs for its daily activities and keep its muscles and bones strong. The Doberman German Shepherd mix is a low to moderate-shedding dog, but you still need to brush its coat every couple of days. Are there any health issues to watch out for in the Doberman German Shepherd Mix? Doberman Shepherds are generally healthy dogs, but they can still inherit various health problems from their parent breeds. Doberman Pinschers, for instance, are prone to cardiomyopathy and Wobbler syndrome due to cervical vertebral instability. On the other hand, its German Shepherd parentage gives the German Shepherd Doberman mix a predisposition to conditions such hip dysplasia , megaesophagus, and degenerative myelopathy. Breed clubs and rescue organizations for the parent breeds may also help with your search for German Shepherd and Doberman mix puppies. Here are some breeders and rescues you can get in touch with:. What Is A Doberman Shepherd? As such, we can expect this hybrid to be an energetic, intelligent, and devoted dog that does best with experienced dog owners who are willing and able to commit time and attention to this beautiful mix. Though the Doberman German Shepherd mix is rising in popularity, he is a relatively new crossbreed in the canine kingdom. For this reason, there are many factors to this dog that are considered unpredictable and quite a bit that we are still learning about him. Keep reading to learn more! Though popular, crossbreed dogs are somewhat controversial. The Doberman German Shepherd mix is stunning to look at. He also has the potential to have a phenomenal temperament and disposition when raised by the right owner. However, Doberman German Shepherd mix dogs are also work-oriented breeds that come from two different purebred parents. As with all crossbreed dogs, this means that the Doberman German Shepherd mix could be unpredictable when it comes to traits like health, appearance, and even temperament. And this is where the crossbreed controversy comes into play. What Is A Crossbreed? Sometimes referred to as a hybrid, designer dog, or mixed breed, a crossbreed dog is the offspring of two different purebred parent breeds. Mutts, on the other hand, are often born without the help of human manipulation and tend to have a variety of different canine DNA in their genetics. Originally, crossbreeding was done by breeders working to create dogs with combined breed traits for the purpose of work. In fact, it is believed that the majority of purebred dogs we are familiar with today are the result of careful crossbreeding over centuries. And though crossbreeding has been an ongoing practice since nearly the beginning of the human and dog relationship, the practice of selling newer generation crossbreed dogs to the general public has only become popular over the last two decades. Designer dogs are incredibly trendy these days, with many selling for as much if not more than their purebred counterparts. However, crossbreed dogs may have the upper hand when it comes to health. Crossbreed dogs could have the benefit of hybrid vigor , a term used that means hybrid dogs may be less susceptible to inheriting the genetic health issues of their parent breeds thanks to their widened gene pool. The breed developed somewhat of a bad rep due to their use by Nazis during World War ll. However, when properly raised, Doberman Pinscher dogs are known to be incredibly intelligent, affectionate, devoted, and trainable. They can do well in families when well trained and socialized, and they make wonderful guardians and protectors of people and other pets. However, some Doberman Pinschers have been known to bond more closely with one person in the family, and they are high-energy dogs that are not ideal for the more laid-back dog owner. For this reason, we recommend anyone investing in a Doberman Pinscher or a Doberman Pinscher mix to consider their lifestyle and ability to commit to this type of dog. But what about the German Shepherd? German Shepherds are highly intelligent, work-oriented, and trainable. They become very bonded with their owners and are best suited for experienced dog owners with an understanding of working breeds. When properly raised, trained, and socialized, German Shepherds make great family companions. They do well in active households and with owners who have flexible schedules. Like all dogs, without the proper care, exercise, socialization, and training, the German Shepherd can develop serious behavioral issues like depression, anxiety, stress, and fear-based aggression. The Doberman German Shepherd Pinscher mix is an intelligent and work-oriented hybrid. Coming from two work-oriented parent breeds, you might think that the Doberman German Shepherd mix is a serious-minded dog with no time for play. While this hybrid does enjoy having a job to do, he is also more goofy and fun-loving than you might think! The Doberman German Shepherd mix is a playful, energetic companion that can get along well with children and he is a dog that will enjoy having other canine playmates in the home. However, he will need to be socialized at an early age to help reduce any potential behavioral issues. The Doberman German Shepherd mix is also highly energetic. He will enjoy having owners who are able to get active with him, and he will especially enjoy having a backyard where he can run and play freely. In fact, if left alone for too long the Doberman German Shepherd mix could be prone to developing anxiety and depression. This is a very family-oriented dog, and there is a chance he will bond more closely with a specific family member. Also, because he is so clever, it will be important to keep your Doberman Pinscher German Shepherd Mix properly mentally stimulated as well as physically stimulated. But we will talk more about this further down. This mixed breed requires training and socialization from an early age. Training a Doberman German Shepherd mix may seem like it should be a breeze, but these dogs can be stubborn from time to time. Training should begin as early as possible, ideally during puppyhood, and it should be done using positive reinforcement training that utilizes treats, praise, and patience. Avoid aversive training tactics like punishments, scolding, or fear. Repetitive five-minute increments of training should suffice, mixed with playtime and breaks in between. Blue Buffalo Bits Buy on Amazon If you are looking for quality training treats to use when it comes to holding your Doberman German Shepherd Mix dogs attention, we recommend the above training treats by Blue Buffalo. Not only is Blue Buffalo a brand we trust, but these treats have all the qualities that make them ideal for training. They are small, round, smelly, and chewy, which makes them quite irresistible to your dog. We also like that they are made with quality ingredients that you can feel good about offering your dog during training sessions. Socializing your dog is the act of introducing your Doberman German Shepherd mix to as many new experiences as possible. This should include new people, places, sights, sounds, and environments. Avoid forcing your Doberman German Shepherd mix into a new situation that is clearly frightening or stressful for him. Instead, allow your dog to explore the world at his own pace. You can use high-quality training treats and gentle praise to help encourage him. Without proper exercise and mental stimulation, the Doberman Shepherd could become anxious, depressed, and destructive. The quick answer to the above question is YES, the Doberman German Shepherd mix is going to require plenty of routine exercise and mental stimulation. Remember, this is a crossbreed that is the offspring of two working breeds, and as such he can be prone to developing serious behavioral issues if not kept physically and mentally fit. These issues could include barking, marking, chewing, scratching, and even depression, anxiety, and aggression. When it comes to exercising your Doberman German Shepherd mix, this is a high-energy dog that is going to need at least an hour or more of dedicated exercise each and every day. When you are exercising your Doberman German Shepherd Mix, be sure to walk him on a proper leash and harness. Like many high-energy dog breeds, your German Shepherd Doberman Pinscher mix may be inclined to pull on leash. Instead, use proper walking equipment that not only helps to reduce and redirect pulling but also teaches your dog proper walking manners without harming him. The harness works by clipping in the front, which means that when your dog does pull he will be redirected back to you. Mental stimulation can help curb unwanted behaviors, reduce potential destructive behaviors, and ensure your dog is happy, healthy, and well-rounded. Many people find that their Doberman German Shepherd Mix dog is a great help around the house! In fact, if you work diligently enough with your Doberman Shepherd mix, you could be able to teach him how to help sort the laundry, bring in the mail, or take out the trash. The Doberman German Shepherd mix will also enjoy routine training sessions and learning new queues, and he will appreciate puzzle toys to help keep him busy and engaged when you are away. KONGS are great because they provide your dog with long-lasting chew time, especially when they are filled with treats, KONG filler, peanut butter, or even other, smaller chews. The Doberman German Shepherd Mix has a short, smooth coat that sheds year-round. You can help combat allergies, dander, debris, and shed hair by ensuring you keep up with routine grooming practices. The Doberman German Shepherd Mix should be brushed at least once a week using a grooming comb to help remove loose hair and debris. For over a hundred years, generations of Dobermans have been selected for independence, stubbornness, and aggression. But with Germany unpopular during the war years, these Allied pooches were called Alsatian Wolf Dogs instead. Doberman Pinschers were created as the perfect guard dogs At the end of the 19th century, a German named Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann set out to create the greatest guard dog ever bred. He combined several German breeds to reach his goal. In the military, they can be therapists as well as fighters, with their loyalty and watchfulness making them excellent companions for soldiers living with PTSD. Both of its parent breeds are loyal and watchful, but they also like to get their way, especially Dobermans. In addition to being bold and protective, they love to romp and play just like any other dog. The best way to socialize a Doberman Shepherd is to start introducing it to new people as a puppy. Their natural instinct is to aggressively protect their master, but they also love to be around people. They might see the child as a threat, and if they start attacking or biting, it can be difficult to make them let go. If anything, it will ignore your other pets entirely in its eagerness to spend more time with you. We recommend 4 to 5 cups of dry food each day, split into two meals. Choose an organic kibble with specific ingredients that supply it with protein, whole grains, and fat. We reviewed the best organic dog treats — check out our top picks here! Every day, be sure to give them at least 90 minutes of physical activity. Take it on walks, let it run free at the dog park, or incorporate it into your usual workout habits. Their need for lots of exercise makes Doberman Shepherds the perfect dog for active owners who already have a daily fitness routine. As your puppy grows into an adult, continue spending lots of time with it every day, exercising, and playing with toys. They shed and drool very little. Related Read: Doberman Pinscher vs. German Shepherd: Which Dog to Choose? However, there are still a few things to watch out for. Minor Conditions Dermatitis: A skin rash that develops in response to allergies that usually appear in dogs between 1 and 3 years of age. It can be treated with medicine baths, anti-histamines, and special diets. Separation Anxiety: If left alone too much, this can reach the level of mental illness. Serious Conditions Cardiomyopathy: An enlarged heart that sometimes affects large dog breeds. Abnormal breathing, lethargy, coughing, and bluish skin are common symptoms. Dysplasia: A joint deterioration, most often of the hip and elbow joints, that commonly results from obesity and malnutrition in large dogs. Male Doberman Shepherds are prouder and focus more on being in charge of their territory; this can make them a handful compared to the more nurturing female Doberman Shepherds. However, the dispositions of each gender pale in comparison to the difference that good or bad training can make. A well-trained male is infinitely easier than an untrained female Doberman Shepherd every time. On the other hand, the rewards of successfully bonding with a Doberman Shepherd are too great to put a price on. Related Reads:. It is a cross between the Doberman Pinscher and the German Shepherd. 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. Ella the Doberman Shepherd mix at about 2 years old—"Ella is a very calm dog. She likes to eat and play with her owner. When our old dog passed away, we wanted a friend for our Vizmaraner. She has been great with learning and listening to orders, though has been a bit of a challenge at times. She always wants to have a job and something to do. She loves playing with her 'brother' Blitzen, and she adores our daughter. She also puts up with the cats , but doesn't seem to care much one way or the other. She is spayed , but otherwise unaltered. She has her full tail and her ears have been left alone. Cairo was DNA tested to validate his breed s. So from the results it is safe to say both of his parents were purebreds. NO other breeds were detected. He was a rescue dog, but based on his appearance he does not appear to be an accident. When I got him from the rescue he was 76 lbs. He has many traits and features that point to the Doberman breed coloring, coat and feet and others that lend themselves to the German Shepherd tail, ears and intelligence. He weighs a little north of lbs.!!! He is a very gentle but protective dog with an amazingly loving personality. He loves his big old chin scratched!!!! This guy is so tall he can lick the counters without having to get up on his hind legs and can look over a 6-foot fence easily. Other Canine Clubs Adoptapet. You could also attend professional dog shows, contact or join dog clubs, or talk with a veterinarian who may know or refer a Doberman German Shepherd mix breeder to you. Since the dog would appear like its Doberman parent dog, its short hair does not result in excessive shedding. The Doberman German Shepherd does not like bathing in water, so the dog should be trained to tolerate bath time during puppyhood. This dog shampoo is biodegradable and made of a coconut cleanser, oatmeal, and aloe. It is made of aloe and oatmeal and helps in maintaining a healthy and shiny coat for the dog. The dog shampoo also has a pine scent and is a hundred percent satisfaction guaranteed. Do not forget about maintaining the nails of the dog. Just like many dogs, the Doberman German Shepherd mix also needs its nails trimmed using specialized nail clippers for dogs. The occasional cleaning of the ears and brushing of the teeth should be done as well. Regular exercises and occasional visits to the vet is recommended to prevent the following health problems: Cardiomyopathy. This umbrella term covers both Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Dilated Cardiomyopathy, or Enlarged Heart, is a disease that affects internal organs and results in lung and heart failure. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, or Heart Disease, is a rare case of blood distribution problems by the heart in dogs. The symptoms of Cardiomyopathy include abnormal breathing patterns, anorexia, lethargy, coughing, blueish skin discoloration, and loss of awareness. Wobbler Syndrome. Scientifically named as Cervical Spondylomyelopathy, wobble syndrome is a predisposed condition in large dog breeds such as the Doberman Pinscher. It is described by a bone malformation in the cervical spine which is located on the neck of the dog, resulting in wobbly walking and neck pain. Hip Dysplasia. This is a genetic illness that is common to many dogs in general. In other cases, obesity and improper nutrition and diet can contribute to the development of hip dysplasia as well. The hip joints of the dog slowly deteriorate and could result in skeletal malformation. Megaesophagus is generally characterized by the enlargement of the esophagus in dogs. It is a congenital or inborn, disease that causes problems in traveling food from the mouth to the stomach. Some signs and symptoms include vomiting, weight loss, anorexia, and bad breath. Degenerative Myelopathy. This disease is described as the slow degeneration of the spinal cord in the dog. It may eventually result in paralysis as well. Warning signs include a steady weakness of hind limbs, stumbling, inability to stand, muscle atrophy, poor hygiene, stress, and depression. Separation Anxiety. Part of viewing a health issue should not only remain within the physical aspect. The Doberman German Shepherd mix is also prone to mental disorders like separation anxiety. This occurs when its owner spends less time with the dog despite its deep attachment and loyalty with the person. The Doberman German Shepherd mix does not necessarily have any health issues or illnesses that were explicitly pointed out. Nevertheless, the sicknesses and health problems that were mentioned above can still be passed on to the offspring derived from the genes of both parent dogs. Doberman Shepherds Food Requirements As a big and energetic breed, the Doberman German Shepherd mix may eat plenty of food and become obese if the dog is not supplemented with proper nutrition and a balanced diet. It needs to consume substantial amounts of protein and a moderate amount of carbohydrates and fats and is fed twice a day depending on the activities that the dog did during the day. Feeding your German Shepherd Chow mix should have a balanced diet just like any other dog. You should consult with your veterinarian about these dog foods and devise a holistic dietary plan. Too much protein is too much calorie for the dog and may result in too much weight. Your hairy companion deserves the best, so choose the highest-quality dry dog food in the market you can find. Whelps need the energy to be active, and lots of vitamins and minerals too. Food that rounds off everything their body needs is on the best puppy food brands list. Older canines have different necessities, so take a look at the best senior dry dog food list. It will help them stay strong and show off proudly. You can also find useful ideas on the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food lists, which may contain some food that your pooch will adore. German Dobermans Exercise Requirements This is an active and energetic dog with parent dogs that were bred for working. The Doberman German Shepherd mix requires a substantial amount of exercise to channel and release its stored energy. Intellectual activities are also sufficient sources of mental stimulation for the dog. Below are some activities for the dog: Racing. A team of four dogs is set on the course that fetches a tennis ball through an obstacle course and returns the ball to its handler. The first team to complete the task with all their dogs wins. Like the Doberman and the German Shepherd, the Doberman German Shepherd mix can significantly benefit from this activity. Since most dogs live in urban settings, herding allows the dog an opportunity to utilize its herding instincts that were long unused. Military Training. Sending the dog to the military is an advantage for the dog to act on command and the owner to gain leadership points. On the softer side, the dog may be used as a service dog for war veterans or soldiers who are suffering from PTSD. Scenting or Tracking Games. The German Shepherd parent dog side of the German Shepherd Chow mix was tracking dogs that loved to hunt things. Some games include finding the treat, hide and seek, and find the toy. Both the Doberman and the German Shepherd are renowned guarding dogs and, and its offspring are more likely to display aggressive behavior towards suspicions and threats. The dog should learn how to safely interact with different people and animals, especially with children. Here are some training methods that you could apply to the dog: Socialization. The Doberman German Shepherd mix is a dog with a bold disposition. The dog needs to be exposed with children and other animals and dogs as a puppy to help expand its sense of protectiveness and guarding instincts towards others. The dog will eventually learn new social skills and become more mature to regulate its aggressive tendency. Positive Reinforcement. Rewarding your dog while teaching it commands can come a long way to its relationship with you. You give your dog a reward such as a treat or a toy whenever it successfully responds to your command but gives it nothing until it learns how to react correctly to your call. Puppy Training. The most important part of training the dog as a puppy is giving it your time and company. This should teach your dog the value of your bond with it and will soon acknowledge you as its alpha. Let it play with toys that you give so that it learns that being with you is a rewarding experience. Knowing how to address this reaction of the dog on its guarding instincts is vital before it grows older. But the Doberman German Shepherd mix is also a loyal and affectionate dog once it grows up. It may even feel emotional when its owner deprives the dog of reciprocation or companionship. They make excellent guard dogs and make intruders think twice before barging into your house. The dog needs a backyard space to deplete its energy levels throughout the day. It is not an ideal dog for people living in an apartment since the dog may always feel insecure and wary of strangers that walk the hallways every day. It may even act more aggressively to different people who you interact with and affect your social life as well. If your family lives in colder states and have fewer opportunities to bring out the dog, then it is not a suitable dog for you. Altogether, the Doberman German Shepherd mix makes a fearsome but loving family dog. The important thing to remember is that it is a dog that will protect the family with its life no matter how dangerous the situation could escalate References:. They can also be stubborn at times, so these dogs are not ideal for novice owners. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. That said, they are exceedingly loyal and highly intelligent and make one of the most loyal family protectors around. They are also versatile and make a great exercise companion too, giving you a dog that can do it all! They can be a challenge for first-time dog owners, though, as they are strong-willed and need a strong, confident leader in training. Continue learning from this Doberman Shepherd care guide to know what type of diet, exercise and attention they need to grow into happy and healthy dogs. They are stubborn and strong-willed at times but make up for this with their love and affection toward their owners. With the right training and socialization, their more negative traits can be largely mitigated. They become extremely bonded to their human family, so while they are bold and brave on the outside, they are actually highly sensitive and suffer from separation anxiety when left alone. If you are away from home frequently, this is unfortunately not the breed for you. These dogs are just as energetic and athletic as their parent breeds, if not more so, and they can be a challenge to properly exercise. It is essential to give these dogs the right amount of exercise, though, as without it, they can swiftly become bored, destructive, and even aggressive. Proper training is arguably even more important, and these dogs need a strong, confidant leader; otherwise, they will take the position themselves! They are generally gentle and affectionate with kids but can easily knock them over and hurt them mistakenly while playing. For families with older kids, though, they are wonderful family dogs, as they are loyal as they come and formidable protectors. Doberman Shepherds generally get along great with other dogs and are usually fine with cats too. Dry food is great, so long as it is free from filler ingredients and has animal protein in the top three ingredients — ideally, the first-listed one. They should not be free-fed because they are notoriously poor at self-regulating and can quickly get obese. Also, as with any dog, make sure they have access to fresh, clean water at all times. That said, they do have a stubborn streak that can be a challenge for novice owners. Early socialization is essential with Doberman Shepherds and will make training far easier because they will be far less distracted by other dogs and humans when you take them out for walks. While these dogs are intimidating and powerful animals, they are fairly sensitive and do not respond well to harsh training methods, and this may even cause aggressive behavior. Gentle, reward-based methods are best and will build a wonderful relationship of trust and bonding with your pooch. Other than that, you may need to trim their nails occasionally to prevent injuries, and keep their teeth brushed and clean to avoid dental disease. That said, they may still be susceptible to the genetic issues of their parent breeds and can be prone to issues that affect most other dog breeds too. These dogs love to eat and are not good at self-regulating their food intake. This can swiftly lead to obesity if they are overfed, but their daily meals should also be split into two to three smaller meals to prevent them from eating too fast. Large dogs that eat their food too quickly are prone to gastric torsion, a condition resulting from swallowing too much air with food. This condition is unfortunately fatal in most cases. Minor Conditions.
We have answers. Am I limited to Bakersfield German Shepherd puppies for sale? Looking for your dream German Shepherd, Bakersfield? If you're looking for a dog that matches your particular lifestyle, and don't want to compromise on quality or find one that's been bred specifically for the local market, Uptown Puppies is the perfect choice. We work with breeders and businesses throughout the United States who are experts at transporting dogs securely and getting them to major airports so that you can pickup your new pet. How do you screen breeders with German Shepherd puppies for sale in Bakersfield, California? German Shepherd puppies for sale? Bakersfield has the best! We are a network of ethical, humane breeders who care about our puppies and customers. We screen breeders who want to join our network, and we only allow those with a track record of excellent breeding practices, caring for their puppies, and customer service. Are German Shepherds trainable for novice owners? What about the best German Shepherd puppies Bakersfield has to offer? Whether German Shepherds are easy to train or best left to professionals is up for debate. The breed is extremely intelligent and obedient, so they're sure to make great family members. German Shepherds love to serve and will be perfect companions for those who have the time and patience to train them well. We at What Families Want understand that many families are looking for a quality puppy, but they don't want to be scammed or find a puppy mill. That's why we created our puppy finder network. What is a puppy mill? Do they have cheap Bakersfield German Shepherds for sale? In fact, these breeding facilities often have a negative impact on both the dogs and the humans who work there. Puppies in mills typically come from unethical breeding practices that can cause them to carry undetected genetic issues. Are German Shepherds for sale in Bakersfield, California good for apartments? German Shepherds are one of the most popular breeds in the world, but they need proper exercise and room to roam in order to be happy. If you don't have time for your German Shepherd to run around, they may become destructive and anti-social. Are there any German Shepherd puppies for sale near Bakersfield? Don't miss your chance to get a German Shepherd puppy! The only problem is that puppies listed on Uptown Puppies are always taken quickly. New and upcoming litters can be scooped up within hours. If you see the Shepherd of your dreams, act fast before someone else does! Are German Shepherd puppies near Bakersfield right for me? Well, that depends on what you want! Do you want a loyal and intelligent dog who will stand by your side through thick and thin? The German Shepherd is a protective pooch, but they're also extremely friendly towards their family. If that's what you're looking for, join the club- there's a reason Shepherds are so popular! Are German Shepherds good family dogs? German Shepherds can be quite intimidating, but they are also very loving towards their family. They are also quite protective of their home and will stand up to anyone who threatens it. Proper socialization from a young age is key to avoid these issues. Where do German Shepherds come from? Are they only available from German Shepherd breeders near Bakersfield? The German Shepherd originated in the United Kingdom in the late s. The most intelligent, responsive and obedient local shepherd dogs in the UK were bred to create what is now known as the Welsh Corgi. This breed was responsible for herding cattle and protecting flocks from predators. Are German Shepherds smart? German Shepherds are some of the smartest dogs around. They're usually considered to be one of the smartest breeds, according to a study that ranked intelligence based on each breed's ability to learn and obey commands. Because they're so smart, proper training is essential if you want your German Shepherd to stay under your control. Without regular reinforcement and discipline, he may quickly outsmart you and take over the household. How fast can German Shepherds run? Where can I find the best German Shepherd for sale Bakersfield has to offer? German Shepherds can sprint quickly, reaching speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. That's pretty fast! Keep in mind that GSDs can run for hours if they need to, so be aware if you're out walking and see one running off quickly. If you have never had the pleasure of owning a German Shepherd then you are in for a real treat. There are many places where you can adopt a German Shepherd. If you live in the country a good place to adopt a German Shepherd is at a boarding kennel. This kind of facility will often allow you to find the perfect dog for your family. However, you can also search online and find that there are many different places to adopt German Shepherd puppies. The Bakersfield German Shepherd puppies craigslist ad is one of the most popular places to adopt a German Shepherd. The price of this ad is very reasonable and you can save money if you are adopting a puppy from a shelter or rescue group instead of a breeder. There is also a wide price range as far as German Shepherd breeders are in the US. When it comes to looking for a good home for your German shepherd puppies the internet has opened up so many opportunities. There is an adoption kit for you to search through and find the perfect home for your new dog. There is even a Bakersfield ca area directory that you can look at to find local organizations that will help you find a good home for your new puppy. When you search for the German Shepherd puppies craigslist ad you will get some interesting results. One of the things that you will find out about German Shepherd breeders who are in the area is that they will put up a sign on their premises that states they do not accept cash payments for rehoming. But if you have the time to spend, you may be able to find some great deals on a decent dog. You can also look at the different classifieds in the paper in your area and see if there are any ads for German shepherd puppies. It can be a great idea to check out one of the classifieds in Bakersfield ca, and see what kind of price range that they have. These are some of the best German Shepherd breeders that you can find. They have the experience that you would expect, and you will have your new family member very quickly. If you are interested in German Shepherds in general then you may want to take a look at an online breeder in the area. There are many different sites that you can use to find a reputable breeder in the Sacramento area. If you live in the Bay Area, you will want to make sure that you take a look at the California German Shepherd puppies on the craigslist app. Not only will you be able to find the perfect pet for your loved one, but you will be able to get him or her quickly. The other place that you may be able to find some wonderful German Shepherd puppies is at the different dog shelters. Bakersfield CA has a large number of excellent shelters and rescues where you can go and look at the different dogs that are there. You can also contact the local vet and ask them if they have any German Shepherds for sale. No matter what happens though, you should make an appointment with the local vet so that you will be fully prepared for when you bring your new German Shepherd puppies home. These dogs are amazing companions and very lovable. The black German shepherd puppies that are for sale in the Bakersfield area are some of the most adorable and fun German shepherd puppies that you will ever own. You can purchase one of these dogs from the local breeders near you can purchase one from the Internet. Either way, you are in for a wonderful treat. Share this:. We have always enjoyed the outdoor life, hiking, camping, dirt bike riding, and horseback riding. The White German Shepherd has proven to be an amazing companion that fits right on in with everything we do and life is so much better when we have a loving, loyal companion in our lives. Many years ago our family bred Rottweilers. We still love the breed but found the White German Shepherd to be a better fit for our family and friends. We have had White German Shepherds in our lives since .We fell in love with the breeds family oriented personality, incredible intelligence, athleticism, sense of humor, adaptability, loyalty, kindness to children and smaller animals and traits of a loyal family protector. When searching for our parent dogs, we searched for intelligence, good conformation, good genetics, straight backs, upright ears, beautiful kind almond shaped eyes, athleticism, calmness, sweet temperaments and loyalty. We found all these traits in our Duke and Duchess. Our puppies are part of our family; they are raised indoors in a comfortable, climate controlled home. They play inside with us and outside in the sunshine with our watchful eyes on them. They are raised and socialized around children, our family, our friendly neighbors and our horses. We have a health guarantee with each puppy's bill of sale. We are here for support if a new puppy buyer has questions. Our puppies will have a health examination from a veterinarian before leaving for their new home. We love our puppies and want each of them to be the right fit for their new forever homes. We give the new owner an AKC Puppy Folder with healthcare tips and training tips, a bag of puppy food that the puppy has been used to eating, and lifetime support. Puppies will be 8 weeks old on April 18th and ready to join their new homes. We are often busy having fun with our dogs and horses. And we will respond as soon as possible. Thank you so much! We look forward to meeting you and showing you our beautiful dogs and puppies! We live near the beautiful Ventura County area of Southern California. AKC proudly supports dedicated and responsible breeders. We encourage all prospective puppy owners to do their research and be prepared with questions to ask the breeder. Rocky Oak.
Remember, Labs do not have a natural food intake regulator so you will need to monitor them with portion control. Using a cheaper brand is a poor option at half the price. You will use twice as much and you will have to clean up larger amounts of waste in your yard. To allow for an accurate control of body weight and growth rate, this amount of food can be dispensed over 3 meals per day. After 5 months of age, the feeding regularity can be reduced to two meals per day with the commensurate increase in food quantity. The amount of food a Labrador puppy requires will increase then level out during first 14 months of their life. At months, their bone density is increasing and their growth plates are set. We do not recommend desexing you pup until at least 3 years of age. This allows for an appropriate development and supply of hormone which in turn produces proper bone, muscle and vital organ development. Table foods dispensed randomly to dogs are not nutritionally balanced. We do not offer our dogs table food at all. There will be no problems if you are feeding a puppy with a homemade diet but it should be prepared from prescribed recipes that are nutritionally complete and balanced. Diets consisting of an unplanned and indiscriminate mixture of human foods particularly including carbohydrates will likely result in obesity and even dietary-induced disease. When you Lab reaches 14months of age, it should be given an adult food that contains less energy and calcium. This will decrease the risk of obesity and orthopaedic conditions. And do not feed them coffee or tea as they can contain caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. These toxic substances can dangerously affect the heart and nervous system. Onions, garlic, raisins and grapes can be severely toxic in labradors. Raw meat is potential source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria for your puppy. Eggs yokes are an excellent source of protein. Raw eggs contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin a B vitamin. This can, in extreme cease, lead to skin and coat problems. Liver contains higher levels of protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins. Raw liver can be a source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria. Excessive amounts of liver can cause Vitamin A toxicity. Raw bone chewing will control tartar buildup on a pups teeth. However, bone chewing can cause intestinal blockages and perforations. Never use cooked bones. Commercial Puppy Foods Most commercial puppy foods are designated for small, medium, large and giant breeds. This designation can be found on the label. Puppies of medium sized breeds are less than '25 kg fully grown adult body weight'. A full grown and lean Labrador will usually weigh between 25kg and 45kg. We feed our dogs at the 'lower' level of the recommended range. The 'Hills Body Fat Index' is a very helpful body shape indicator. The same food as the bitch You should feed your new puppy with the same brand of food as the bitch received during lactation. From 2 weeks into pregnancy, our expectant mothers are fed 'Royal Canin Labrador Puppy' food. Introducing a new brand of food If you are wanting to introduce a new brand of food to your puppy, then blend it gradually with the existing brand in increasing amounts over 3 days. This should prevent food rejection and any kind of gastric upset. It is best to choose a diet designed for large breed puppies. Selected commercial feeds should contain a limited percentage of filler compounds. Pawlinglabs uses Royal Canin Labrador as our preferred option. Growing labradors Labrador pups have a very steep growth curve, and their total daily energy needs do increase as they grow. Calculate the amount of puppy food that will satisfy that need. The feeding guidelines on the commercial pet food label provides an estimated quantity of feed for several different ranges in body size. These instructions will give you an estimated starting point for the particular brand. Medium or large? Medium breeds should be transitioned to an adult diet by 12 months of age, while large breeds between 14 — 18 months of age. Mature female labradors are medium and weight approx kg. Mature males are large and weight approx kg. Their calcium and energy content should not exceed that level recommended by a registered nutritionalist. Sound skeletal development Sound skeletal development in labradors is produced by the interaction of genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. The phase prior to weaning and the growth phase, up to 14 months are integral to sound skeletal structure. Don't take your young pup on extended distance walks and certainly not 'running' until at least 18mths of age. You must avoid stairs and slippery floors for the same reasons. Their growth plates are set at about mths of age. Feeding and Overfeeding Large breeds like Labradors are the most susceptible to skeletal disease. Feed consumption, nutrients balance and feeding methods influence our ability to produce sound skeletal development and eliminate skeletal disease. Appropriate food consumption and nutrition plays a critical role in bone development. Overfeeding will not increase or benefit the growth rate of young and growing labrador puppies. And it does not correlate with optimal adult size. However, it does increase the risk of skeletal abnormalities. The vast majority of skeletal disorders occur in large breeds including labradors and they are associated with consumption of table food and an excessive intake of a commercial food and supplementation. The large breeds like labradors are limited in their ability to cope with an excess of minerals such as calcium. The result of this over consumption is abnormal bone development and skeletal disorders. Nutritional management will be critical in the to prevention of bone and joint diseases. In most cases, skeletal disease can prevented by appropriate quantities of feed in a regulated diet with optimal nutrient levels. A complete and balanced commercial diet is essential. Dietary deficiencies will be of little concern if your labrador pup is fed with a complete and balanced commercial diet. Brands like Eukanuba and Royal Canin are specifically formulated for young, growing labradors. There is real potential for harm by over feeding and giving additional supplementation. Housing safety and activity levels Housing safety and activity levels are under the your influence. Nutrition is also under your control and it is the single most important factor affecting the development of the musculoskeletal system. Energy, protein, and calcium are the critical nutritional components affecting skeletal development. However, if they are given in excess, they will be detrimental to normal bone and joint growth. Most pet owners feed commercial dog food. These prepared diets are balanced and complete. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. Following the Labrador feeding chart by age will give you a rough idea of how much to feed your puppy. Labradors are known for their playfulness, and sweet disposition, and are good at fetch which is why you should provide them with the best nutrition to support their growth. Ensure that the food contains the right amounts of protein, carbs, fat, and vitamins. You should avoid feeding your Labrador puppy too much food as they are prone to joint issues, but also avoid feeding them less food as they will be malnourished and not reach their growth milestones. Continue reading to understand how much to feed a Labrador puppy. The amount of food that your Labrador puppy should eat depends on a combination of certain factors such as activity level, weight, type, and brand of food. Heavier and bigger puppies need to eat more food than smaller puppies, and dogs that have active lives will need more calories than those living sedentary life. Fortunately, all dog food contains a feeding guideline on the packaging to get you started. It is important that you create and maintain a feeding schedule for your puppy so that they can maintain a healthy weight and develop good habits. Consult your pet nutritionist or vet, to learn more about how much food you should give your specific Labrador. Labrador Feeding Chart By Age A Labrador can be fed between one and six cups of food depending on their level of activity, age, and type of food. The amount will differ from one puppy to the other as every puppy has there own requirements. Therefore, you should follow a feeding guideline that is indicated in the dog food brands or the one designed by your vet. As a Labrador owner, it is important to understand that the nutritional requirements of your puppy are different at each stage as they grow. Therefore, adult and puppy dogs should be trained to eat the correct amount at the right schedule. Ensure that you keep a Labrador puppy feeding chart with you. Calculating the Resting Energy Requirement RER of your puppy and doubling it can help you get the right number of calories to feed them. Feed your puppy a little amount, in the beginning, to ensure that they are ready to eat. If they are not ready, do not force the food on them. Be patient with your puppy and they will be on puppy food soon. The puppy will be relying less on the milk. When your puppy starts eating all the food you offer them, you can reduce the amount of water and increase the food amount. The puppy will start becoming active and start exploring away from the mother as they no longer rely on the mother. By the end of the week into week seven, the puppy will be able to eat just puppy food. Ensure that you feed them dry food that is full of healthy protein. They should be eating three to four times per day and need about 2 cups of food. Avoid free feeding the puppy as it may be hard to know exactly how much they are eating. Create a feeding schedule as early as possible and this will help them develop good habits in the future. Put the food out for only 10 to 15 minutes and take the bowl away if they do not finish. This can be tricky if you are working but it is important that you maintain their feeding schedule as this is a developmental stage. Three meals per day will help your growing puppy develop their digestive system and ensure that they are getting their nutrition. This is also the beginning of the teething stage and they will be biting a lot of things including hard dog food and chew toys. They should eat about two cups of food distributed over three meals. But you should still maintain feeding them two cups of food but can reduce the mealtimes to twice per day. Watch out for the amount of food your puppy eats to avoid them gaining weight. Also, ensure that they are getting enough exercise to burn off the food. So, you should transition them to adult food. Ensure that the switching process is done slowly to avoid causing vomiting and diarrhea to your puppy. Your Labrador can be fed once per day now and the amount reduced to about two cups of food. Understanding Labrador Puppy Nutritional Needs If you stick to feeding your Labrador high-quality food, be assured that they are getting all the necessary nutrients. However, it is useful to know the types of nutrients that they need and the ingredients to watch out for. Carbohydrates — healthy carbs are necessary for providing energy for your puppy. Sources like barley, rice, and oatmeal are great. Healthy carbs can also be found in veggies such as sweet potatoes, peas, and lentils. Fiber — it helps regulate the digestive system of your puppy and helps the stool become healthier and firm. Sources include spinach, chicory root, and beet pulp. Sources include fish oils, fish, canola oils, and fish. Vitamins and Minerals — are needed for improving the immune system which helps in protecting your puppy from diseases. Veggies and real fruits like cranberries and blueberries are great sources. The frequency of feeding your Labrador depends mostly on their age. Puppies need to eat three to four times per day while senior and adult Labradors can eat one to two times per day. Labrador is a breed that is motivated by food, meaning that the chance of them turning down food is low. Given their nature, it can be difficult to figure out whether they are really hungry or just food obsessed. Since they cannot regulate their eating habits, it is important that you develop a feeding schedule to prevent them from gaining weight. Both types of food provide your dog with the best nutrition they need to grow and develop. Also, check the label on the packaging and make sure that it contains the perfect balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Kibble is cheaper than wet foods and stores easily as it does not require refrigeration. It also helps clean the teeth by removing tartar and buildup when your puppy chews it. Wet food also provides balanced and complete nutrition for your Labrador. It provides more hydration to your puppy as it contains high moisture content. However, wet food needs to be put in the fridge once opened otherwise it will go bad. Some dog owners mix wet food and kibble to give their dogs the best of both worlds. Therefore, most premium dog food brands have different specially formulated puppy food. Puppies can be fed with puppy food until they are about 12 to 15 months old then transition to adult dog food. When transitioning your dog from puppy food to adult dog food remember to introduce the feed gradually for about seven to ten days by mixing small amounts of the adult dog food with the puppy food. Decrease the puppy food gradually every day with a simultaneous increase in adult dog food. This will helps the pup o adjust to the new meal easily. Experienced Labrador Retriever owners will tell you that not all puppies eat a lot. Studies also have indicated that puppies eat more when fed with other puppies or in a group. When the puppy gets to a new home, they might go off the food for the first few days. They might eat a few kibbles and then leave it. Your puppy may also prefer to eat from your hand and not the bowl. However, call your vet if your puppy refuses to eat for more than four hours. Call immediately if your puppy looks unwell. There are a few reasons you need to keep an eye on because they indicate serious problems: Your pup neither drink nor eat Diarrhea. Made with real meat and no artificial colors or flavors how much should a lab eat? Allergies Labs can also have allergies. Some dogs may be allergic to wheat, macadamia nuts, etc. It can manifest as a runny nose, high volumes of shedding, rashes on the skin, and so on. Different dietary needs are crucial, especially if they display allergy symptoms. Avoid all types of human foods. You can give your lab puppy supplements You can get great quality adult dog food and puppy kibble from companies like Royal Canin Labrador Retriever, Blue Buffalo, Canidae Grain-Free, etc. Only adult food must be given to labrador retrievers who have crossed 1. Your puppy needs 4 small meals consisting of half a cup of food per meal till he is 2 months old. From 2 to 6 months, he needs 3 meals daily consisting of 1 cup of food per meal. From 6 months onwards , you can give your puppy 2 meals daily of 2 cups of dog food per meal. Is This A Problem? Yes, this is a major problem! Fat dogs are adorable but also extremely unhealthy. An adult labrador retriever should weigh at most pounds. Labs that are fatter than this stand at the risk of obesity, arthritis , and other lifelong diseases. Refrain from feeding your labrador too many dog treats. Onions and garlic: surprisingly, anything in the onion and garlic family is incredibly toxic to dogs. Meat with bones: if not chewed properly, sharp edges can rupture the throat, stomach lining, intestines, and other parts of the digestive tract. Other human foods and beverages to avoid giving your dog are alcohol, sugar, citric fruits, and anything with caffeine. Your labrador retriever should weigh between 55 to 70 pounds at full adulthood. Male labs are heavier than female labs, so they can fall on either side of the optimal weight spectrum. Some healthy treats for your labrador retriever are cut fruits and vegetables. Carrots, celery, cucumber, beetroot, apples, bananas, and berries strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, etc. Dogs also love peanut butter! Veggies dipped in peanut butter also make a great snack for your dog. This is entirely up to you as dog owners. If you have the time and patience to cook meals for your dog, go for it. Store-bought food is easier and is filled with the right nutritional requirements for your lab puppy. On the other hand, with the right recipe, home-cooked food works, too. What Should I Do? A dog growling at you when you go near his food bowl is most commonly a trauma response or a way to protect his food. We often see this with rescues. House training your lab puppy is equally important to avoid food aggression. Labrador Retrievers get piddly after their meals. Dog owners must take out their lab puppy as frequently as they eat sometimes even more often to let their energy out and adult labradors less frequently. A lab puppy needs a ton of exercise. The amount of kibble you should feed your Labrador puppy will vary depending on their age, weight, and activity level. A good rule of thumb is to start with cups of kibble daily and adjust as needed. Best Dog Food For Lab Puppies: The best dog foods for lab puppies include those that are high in protein and low in fillers. The food you should feed a black lab puppy is the same as for any other Labrador puppy. A chocolate lab puppy should be fed the same food as for any other Labrador puppy. A 2-year-old chocolate lab should eat about cups of kibble daily. You should stop feeding puppy food to your Labrador at around months of age. At this point, their growth plates will have closed, and they will no longer need the extra nutrients found in puppy food. Labradors live for years. They start to slow down around 7 and may develop some health problems in their senior years. You should also increase their exercise level. Lab breeders feed their dogs high-quality dog food specifically formulated for large-breed puppies. A lab puppy should drink about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. This amount may increase as they get older and more active. A labrador needs at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. This can be a combination of walking, running, and playing. Golden labs live for years. Chocolate labs live for years same like labs of any color. Labradors lose their baby teeth between 3 and 6 months of age. You can start to transition your puppy to eating twice a day at around 6 months of age. By the time they are 1 year old, they should eat only once daily. You should stop feeding your large breed puppy food at around 18 months of age. Why Are Labs So Hungry? Labradors are a very active breed of dog, and they need a lot of calories to fuel their energy levels. They are also prone to gaining weight, so keep a close eye on their food intake About The Author Shradha Kabra Shradha is a seasoned writer at Labradorandyou. Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness. Before adopting a Labrador Retriever puppy, many owners go to great lengths to deduce the optimal food for their pup. From raw feed to canned food from a local pet store, there are plenty of dog food options for owners to consider, but which is the best dog food? Whether you feed your puppy a raw food diet or commercial dog foods, there are lots of ways for your pup to consume a balanced diet. There are plenty of sources that will describe the benefits of one diet over another, but remember that no one knows your puppy better than you. The decision to feed your dog a diet that you think is best is yours to make. There really is no right or wrong answer when it comes to selecting a food for your puppy. Your pooch will likely enjoy eating wet food just as much as they enjoy commercial dog food. So long as you feed your pup an adequate amount of food, they are likely to live a long and healthy life. If you would like specific advice about feeding your individual puppy, you may wish to consult with your veterinarian or other dog food expert. When you first bring your puppy home, it can be alarming if your dog does not touch its puppy food during the first few days at home. Is this cause for concern? Noticing that your precious pup is not eating can be a frightening realization. Prior to being welcomed to its forever home, your Lab puppy was accustomed to living with its mother and siblings. Therefore, being uprooted from this life can initially be a startling experience for a dog. Fortunately, puppies should develop an appetite within a day or two of entering their forever home-they just need a short time to adjust to their new life. If, after a few days, your puppy is still not eating their dog food, it may be a wise idea to have your puppy evaluated by a vet. Feeding A Two-Month-Old Labrador Retriever Two months old is about the earliest point at which a Labrador puppy can be brought home by their new family. When a Labrador puppy begins to eat solid food, it will not be eating a ton of food. So, owners can start their Lab puppy off with somewhere around 0. As your puppy grows older and gets bigger, owners should look to increase the amount of food for their Labrador pup. By the time a puppy is nearing three months old, it should be eating well over 1 cup of food every day. Some puppies may be consuming close to two cups of dog food at this time. This increase in size means that their appetite has also surely grown since bringing them home. By the time a Labrador puppy is around 3 months old, it should be eating close to 1. Large three-month-old Labrador puppies can be away a substantial amount of food as they are near four months old. Some puppies will be able to consume around 3 cups of food daily at this point in their lives, but most will be eating closer to 2 cups of dog food every day. If your pup seems hungry and looks to be a healthy weight, there is no need for owners to be concerned about how much food their three-month-old Lab is consuming. Your precious pooch will start to look more like an adult with each passing day. Therefore, it is essential to feed your dog enough food to promote the weight gain that makes dogs thrive. Four-month-old Labrador Retrievers should be given at least two cups of food daily. The biggest, most ravenous Labs will eat close to 3. However, only dogs on the large end of the puppy spectrum will need to eat this much at this time. Average four to five-month-old Labs should eat anywhere from 2 to 3 cups of food daily. Labrador Retriever teenagers are characterized by disproportionate body parts, distracted behavior, and dispositions that range from silly to ornery. Therefore, getting enough food to support such development is imperative. A six-month-old Labrador will surely be able to eat at least 2. This will ensure proper growth for your pooch. As your puppy reaches the point in which it is 7 to 8 months old, continue to increase the amount of food that your puppy receives. Labrador Retriever puppies that are close to 9 months old can eat more than 4 cups of food daily. However, your furry friend is more likely to consume 2. Instead, your pup is likely nearing its adult size. So, how much food should ten to twelve-month-old Labs be eating? Puppies that consume quantities of food on the low end of the spectrum should be consuming at least 3 cups of food every day during this time. On the other hand, large Lab pups that are between 10 to 12 months old could be eating 4. If your puppy is on the brink of adulthood, it would be wise to consider weaning it off of its puppy food in favor of adult dog food. All Lab puppies should be offered adult dog food when they reach maturity, as such food replaces nutrients that are essential for puppies with ingredients that benefit adults. Whereas puppies should eat food that increases their body weight, adult Labs should eat food that maintains their weight. So, if you think it may be time to switch your Labrador Retriever to an adult dog food diet, consult with your vet and find a food that is best for your adult Lab. Of course, the mature size of your pooch will dictate how much food it can and should be consuming every day. Generally, it is advisable to feed an adult Labrador anywhere from 3 to just over 4 cups of food every day. Gauge the weight and appetite of your pet to determine the perfect amount for your furry friend. Though the above recommendation will be perfect for most adult Labs, there are some instances in which mature Labradors will require more adult food. Pregnant Or Lactating Labs A Labrador who is pregnant or lactating will require substantial amounts of food to nourish herself and her litter of pups. Therefore, owners should be prepared to offer vast quantities of food to their Labrador mothers. While a typical adult Labrador will consume 3 to 4 cups of food every day, Labrador mothers should be offered around 6 cups of food at least to keep up with their enormous energy requirements. If your mother Labrador snarfs this food down and still seems hungry afterward, be prepared to offer her additional food. Especially Active Labs If your Labrador is an athletic specimen, it may need to consume more than a typical adult Lab to fuel the exercise regime that such a dog is accustomed to. Dogs that receive more than one hour of daily exercise could be considered especially active dogs. Owners can begin by offering these pooches 4. If they still seem hungry, owners can increase the amount of food given to these dogs. Once a dog reaches the golden years of its life, it is once again time to switch up its diet. Senior dogs should consume food that caters to the needs of their aging bodies. These pooches can get away with eating a low-protein diet whereas such food would not be appropriate for puppies or adults. Given that senior dogs are usually not especially active dogs, they do not require as much food compared to adult and large puppies. Therefore, supplying a senior Lab with anywhere from 2 to just over 3 cups of food daily should be plenty for your pooch. Now that you know how much to feed your Labrador, you are likely curious about the number of times that your dog should be fed every day. Some may be looking for a quick answer about how often to feed a Labrador every day, but the truth is nuanced. When it comes to feeding your Lab, it turns out that Labs of different ages should be fed different amounts of food every day. Read on to discover the perfect number of meals for your Lab. An infant Labrador Retriever should have its daily food allotment broken up into at least 4 meals every day. This will help supply these petite pups with the energy that they need to get through the day. Lab puppies that are four to twelve months old do not require as many meals as their younger counterparts. However, these dogs should still receive three meals per day to support their rapid metabolism. Feeding one meal in the morning, one in the afternoon, and one in the evening is optimal. Adult Labs do not need to eat as many meals are puppies due to their slower metabolisms. Supplying an adult Labrador Retriever with two meals every day would be perfect for these dogs. Ideally, adult dogs will be fed one meal in the morning and one in the evening. When your furry friend reaches the point in their life where they are considered to be a senior dog, your pooch will have the slowest metabolism in their life. The slow metabolism for senior Labs means that these dogs do not need to eat as frequently as they did when they were younger. In fact, senior Labrador Retrievers can get by with eating a single meal every day. One to two meals per day is ideal for a senior Labrador Retriever. Owners can see if their senior Lab prefers one or two meals each day by allowing them to try each option. Is this because these dogs are prone to obesity or simply because there are so many Labs out and about? It turns out that Labrador Retrievers are more prone to obesity than many other dog breeds. Labs have evolved to be very active dogs. If owners fail to provide their dogs with proper exercise and feed their furry friends excessive amounts of food, there is a good chance that owners will end up with overweight dogs. Why Is My Labrador Overweight? If you are someone who owns an overweight Labrador, you are not alone. Overweight Labs are still lovable pooches, but they could stand to lose some pounds for their own good. Obviously, feeding your dog less food is likely to be one of the keys to helping your canine companion to lose weight. However, you may be wondering what else you can do to help your Labrador lose weight. Well, if you do not frequently exercise your dog, then this is a good place to start. Try feeding your dog its typical amount of food but increasing its exercise to see if it starts to lose weight. For those that are still struggling to get your pooch to lose weight, be sure to cut out table scraps and dog treats from the diet of your dog. Moreover, be sure that you are not free feeding your Labrador Retriever. Free feeding is acceptable for puppies when they are infants, but Labradors that are any other age should not be free fed, for this can also result in a chunky pooch. If you fear that your dog is consuming its food too quickly, there are plenty of feeding methods to help your pooch slow down. Obesity in dogs is a serious issue. We briefly touched on this subject when discussing the best foods for Lab puppies, and the same advice will apply here. Some owners feed raw to their Labs, while others may feed kibble. Does this mean that those who practice raw feeding are likely to own healthier dogs compared to those feeding kibble to their dogs? Of course not! High-quality dog food may take many different forms. A raw diet could provide your dog with all of the nutrients that it needs, but it is not inherently better for your dog than dry food or homemade food. Ultimately, owners know their Lab better than anyone else, so they should have the final say regarding what to feed their dog. Deciding what to feed your Labrador can be an overwhelming prospect. Consult A Veterinarian Inquiring with a trusted veterinarian about the diet of your Labrador Retriever will help an owner determine the optimal food intake for their precious pooch. They may also recommend certain dog foods that can be purchased to feed a Labrador. A feeding chart will provide information related to how much food to provide a Lab based on its age. A feeding guide may even break down how much food to feed a Labrador based on its weight. There are plenty of Labrador Puppy feeding chart options and feeding guides for adults. Finding a feeding chart that was created by a trusted source like the American Kennel Club can help you make an informed decision about how much to feed your furry friend. Ultimately, a feeding guide is a good place to turn if you find yourself in need of a quick answer about the topic of how much to feed your Lab. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. The best food for Labrador puppies to consume in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to trained breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a Labrador puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. You can do this by mixing some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, you can reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed a Labrador puppy as they get older. In their four months living with you, and once they are weaned off milk, Labradors are likely to reach almost half their adult weight. They will reach their full adult weight by the time they are 6 to 7 months old. With this rapid growth can come some risks. Labradors can be susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia and joint abnormalities that can start in puppyhood. Once your Lab puppy hits 6 months, their growth begins to slow down. Once puppyhood is over, you can move to feeding your lab twice a day instead of 3 or 4 times. Labs are still very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen at around 15 months. This is because, being a breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your Labrador puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. It is also dangerous for a puppy to overeat. Labradors are large breeds, which means they need plenty of nutrients and calories as they grow to ensure they go from being active puppies to healthy adult dogs. Labrador puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, Labrador puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. The amount of food you give your Labrador is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult Labradors, around 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female Labradors, who tend to be around 5 to 10 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, to 1, calories per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your Labrador based on how calorically dense their food is. Adult Labradors should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs may benefit from exercise after eating: especially high energy Labs with a lot of energy to burn off. You should also try to give your Labrador a high quality food that is specially designed for large breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. For example, Labradors can be particularly susceptible to obesity. As a breed, they tend to be one of the most commonly obese dogs in Australia. This is due to several factors, including a genetic predisposition to unhealthy weight gain and a famously large appetite. However, plenty of Labs suffering from obesity are simply overfed and not getting enough exercise. Choosing a low carb diet is crucial to preventing obesity in your Labrador. If you are unsure about what you should feed your Labrador, you should always consult your vet. They will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any chronic health issues, and they will be able to create a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for many years to come. Wet food for Labradors is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. Chewing on dry food can be especially good for teething Labrador puppies. A raw diet can be a good option for your Labrador as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your Labrador, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. Different dog breeds will need different kinds of nutrient support as they go through the various stages of their life. It can also be easy to overestimate the amount of food your Labrador needs to stay fit and healthy — especially if they are skilled at begging! You need to make sure that your dog is eating the right amount of food for their breed, their size, and activity level. You should also avoid foods that, while delicious for humans, can be harmful or toxic for dogs. Foods like onions, nuts, alcohol, cooked bones, and artificial sweeteners are commonly included in dinners meant for humans, but can cause serious health issues for your Labrador. No matter how old your Lab is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.
By Chris Dog owners have probably noticed that their furry friends sleep most of their lives. Adult dogs, on average, sleep hours a day, and puppies and senior dogs can sleep up to 20 hours a day! Like humans, dogs need quality sleep to stay healthy. They also need sleep to heal from injuries and illnesses. Why is my dog suddenly sleeping on the floor? Lack of sleep can put dogs in a bad mood like it does humans. With sleep such a significant part of their lives, we try to do everything we can to make it a peaceful and enjoyable experience for them. Some dog owners let their dogs sleep in the bed with them. Others set up crates and houses with plush dog beds. And some dog owners give their pups the run of the house, letting them choose wherever they want to sleep. If your dog started sleeping on the floor recently, you might wonder, why is my dog suddenly sleeping on the floor? But in some cases, it may be worth monitoring or checking in with your veterinarian. It is also important to note where your dog was sleeping before it moved to the floor. Here are some common reasons why your dog may have suddenly started sleeping on the floor. Many owners line the dog bed with blankets and towels for additional warmth and comfort. Cockapoo lying on the floor. However, your dog may be getting too hot in the dog bed. Heat rises, so the floor is often the coolest place in the room. Dogs can strategically lie on the floor to maximize the amount of skin touching the floor. Lying on the floor allows them to shed body heat and cool off. If your house is hot and you notice your dog suddenly sleeping on the floor, this is likely the reason. Dogs who sleep on the floor to cool off might sleep in the Superman position with their front legs kicked out in front of their head and their rear legs extended behind the buttocks. The Bed Is Too Small Your dog might start suddenly sleeping on the floor if it finds its bed too small. If your adult dog still uses its puppy bed, it might have outgrown it. Your dog may not like the feeling of being constricted in the space of a small bed. The dog sleeps on the floor. Your dog needs a bed big enough to stretch out and relax. Large dogs will need bigger beds than small dogs. If you suspect the bed is too small, introduce a bigger bed and see if your dog resumes sleeping in it instead of on the floor. The Bed Is Uncomfortable or Damaged Another reason your dog might start sleeping on the floor is if its bed is damaged or worn out from overuse. Is the bed old and starting to disintegrate? Dachshund lying on the clean floor. Check if your dog carried something into the bed, like a rock or stick that could be pressing into its skin. The sleeping dog on the floor with the owners. If your dog suddenly starts sleeping on the floor, consider whether it might be having some separation anxiety. Have you started leaving your dog alone for extended periods? Has your dog been in daycare or at a kennel? Your Dog Experiences Restlessness Dogs sometimes have difficulty getting comfortable. You may have seen your pup spin in circles multiple times before lying down or repeatedly changing positions. It could be restless if your dog suddenly starts sleeping on the floor. Many different things can cause restlessness in dogs. Your dog might not be getting the exercise it needs. Or perhaps your dog has recently experienced new and stressful environments that led to anxiety. Their quirky, seemingly-random silly behaviors are part of why we love them. The dog comfortably sleeps on the floor. If your dog suddenly starts sleeping on the floor instead of its bed or wherever it used to sleep , it may be a matter of preference. Like with humans, dog preferences can change over time. Perhaps your dog decided it likes to sleep on the floor or finds it oddly comforting. If your dog seems happy and comfortable on the floor, it should not be a cause for alarm. If so, the bed might be too high for it. This can be a problem for older dogs that are not as agile as they used to be. A recently shaven Labradoodle rests on the floor in a holiday home. Your Dog Sustained an Injury Dogs with injuries might start suddenly sleeping on the floor if they are in pain. Dogs can suffer from orthopedic issues like spinal and muscular pain, disc disease, and hip dysplasia. These dogs might be trying to find a firm surface that provides more support than a soft bed. The dog seems comfortable wearing the bendable plastic cone after surgery. If you notice your dog has abandoned its bed for the floor and is also displaying other symptoms indicative of pain — like moaning, crying, whimpering, panting, spinning in circles, and looking generally uncomfortable — you should contact your veterinarian for an appointment. Older dogs can experience cognitive decline. They get restless and confused at nighttime and may have trouble sleeping or change their sleep habits. Border Collie covers face while lying on the floor. If you have an older dog that recently started sleeping on the floor and is also displaying cognitive symptoms like confusion, you should contact your vet. Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions. Should I let my dog sleep on the floor? Like humans, dogs need good sleep to be healthy. The most crucial factor is that your dog is sleeping. If your pup is snoozing away peacefully on the floor, it is not a cause for concern. Corgi and Dorgi both have health conditions that may occur. However, if your pup seems uncomfortable on the floor, there may be an underlying medical issue or pain. Senior dogs need supportive beds, so the floor is not the best option. As dogs age, they become susceptible to joint issues, arthritis, and hip dysplasia. These dogs would do best in an orthopedic, memory-foam type of mattress. Why does my dog adjust where he sleeps? There are various reasons why your dog may switch up where he decides to sleep. The most common reason dogs sleep in a new spot is an injury or illness. A dog that once slept on a wood floor may find a carpet or cushioned surface more comforting when feeling sick or sore. Old Chihuahua sleeps on the floor. Final Thoughts So, why is my dog suddenly sleeping on the floor? Dogs can be creatures of habit, adopting the same daily routine and sleep behaviors. However, if your dog suddenly starts sleeping on the floor instead of its bed — or wherever it was sleeping before — it is not a cause for alarm. Your dog may be too hot, uncomfortable in bed, trying to get closer to you, or restless. Check to make sure that your dog has not outgrown its bed. You may be unable to pinpoint an exact reason for the behavior — your dog may just enjoy sleeping on the floor! It may take some troubleshooting to determine why your dog suddenly started sleeping on the floor. If your dog previously slept in a dog bed but lost interest, it might be time to upgrade the bed. In the long term, sleeping on the floor is not a supportive position for dogs. Older dogs are prone to orthopedic issues and need a comfortable, supportive bed for their joints and muscles. 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. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. It's happened to all of us. Your Labrador puppy sleeps on the floor instead of the cozy dog bed you just bought. But is it really a bad thing? Generally, it isn't bad for a Labrador puppy to sleep on the floor. This behavior might be triggered by the temperatures, the bed being uncomfortable, the wrong size, or being in the wrong spot. If none of those are true, then it is possible your Lab puppy simply prefers sleeping on the floor. Be conscious of the reasons your Lab puppy may prefer sleeping on the floor, what to do when he sleeps there, and the things to be wary of. In this article Reasons Your Lab Puppy Sleeps on the Floor It's pretty annoying spending time and money on getting the perfect dog bed, only for it to be abandoned for the floor! While you can't verbally ask your pup why he's abandoning his bed, there are a few triggers linked to this behavior, as outlined below. The Bed Is Uncomfortable One of the main reasons your Lab puppy may prefer sleeping on the floor is because his bed is uncomfortable. It may be too slippery, scratchy, something is poking him, or the padding isn't right for him. Or, your Lab might be running away from a wet, dirty, or smelly bed. So, if your dog normally sleeps on his bed but suddenly switches to the floor, first check his bed. You can place your palm on the bed and have a feel of it. If the bed is worn out, replace it. You can also try to lure your puppy back to the bed by adding extra padding or some soft blankets. For the longest time I struggled to find a bed for Molly that she wouldn't completely abandon or destroy. So, I finally spent just a little bit extra for a good quality Furhaven bed from Amazon. What a difference! Now, whenever we can't find her we know where she is. Some love big beds while others love small beds. Therefore, the size of the dog bed you got for your puppy might be the reason behind him sleeping on the floor. Inspect your Lab puppy as he sleeps and observe his sleeping posture. Take note of his stretches, turns, and the area where he sleeps. Note that most puppies are insecure in large beds, as they feel exposed to threats. Therefore, if your puppy's bed appears too big or overly small for him you should replace it. Even after placing beds in different spots in your house, you might still find him sleeping on the bare floor. Because he's already used to sleeping on the floor. It's a habit he has already been accustomed to. This is mainly the case if you adopt an older Lab puppy that has been raised sleeping on the floor. It might be a little too hot or too cold. For example, during summer, the cozy, comfy overstuffed bed may overheat, leaving your furry canine friend with no option than to lie on the floor to try to feel cooler and comfortable. On the other hand, during winter, the bed may not be warm enough for your pup. He may prefer sleeping on the floor next to the fireplace or heater. Your Lab puppy might also be looking for an ideal spot to bask by following the sun's rays during a sunny day. So, it's good to understand the prevailing temperatures. Furhaven has a bed on Amazon that has a cooling gel pad within it that can help if you live in a warmer climate. Note: I chose the egg carton foam because Molly had a history of chewing a corner of her bed and I didn't want to take any chances. Plus, we keep it pretty cold at night! Your Lab Puppy Wants To Stay Close to You Sometimes the bed may be a comfortable, clean, and perfect size, but its position leaves your dog sleeping on the floor. Generally, Labradors are highly affectionate and always crave the attention of their parents. As a result, you may find your young canine friend trying to be as close to you as possible. The bond you have with your Lab may drive him to sleep on the floor next to your bed as you sleep or in the kitchen as you prepare meals instead of his cozy bed. In such cases, you can get your puppy to stick to his bed by placing it in spots closer to you. You may find that among your litter of Lab puppies, some prefer sleeping on the bed while others always crave the floor. So, if your dog has a cozy, comfortable, and clean bed but still sleeps on the floor, it might be a matter of personal preference. Even if you force him to sleep on the bed, he'll still find his way to the floor, because it's what his heart wants. If you notice that your Lab's tendency of sleeping on the floor is associated with weird behaviors such as whining, panting, or abnormally excessive drooling, it might be an indication of an underlying condition. Although other reasons behind your puppy sleeping on the floor aren't causes of alarm, this reason is. So, keep a close eye on your pup as he lies on the floor. Immediately contact your vet if you notice any symptoms of pain. Here are a few tips you can try: Place the bed in an ideal spot. You'll know where to put the bed by observing where your puppy likes to sleep on the floor. This could be in your bedroom, kitchen or front door, or lounge. Make the bed comfortable. You can make the bed comfortable by replacing it if it's worn out. Or, you could clean it, or add a soft blanket. Make the bed accessible. Ensure the bed is in a location where your puppy can easily access it. It shouldn't be too far from you or placed in a secluded spot. Let your puppy sleep. If you try every means possible to lure your Lab puppy to his bed but still find him on the floor, leave him to enjoy his time. After all, if he's healthy and the floor is clean and not too hard on him, then it doesn't cause him any harm to let him sleep on the floor. Things To Be Concerned About Even though it isn't bad for your Lab puppy to sleep on the floor, there are certain things you should be concerned about. Before leaving your puppy to continue sleeping on the floor, here are a few things you should keep in mind: Your dog sleeping on hard floors for a long time may negatively affect his health. It may trigger structural ailments such as arthritis and hip dysplasia. As much as you strive to keep your floor spotless, it may not be the cleanest place for your puppy to nap. Your Lab puppy's dense coat may accumulate dirt, debris, and other strange materials that can affect his skin's health. If you let your puppy sleep on the floor, he might grow thinking it's a good thing to do. As a result, he might develop a lifelong habit of sleeping on floors which might be hard to correct in adulthood. Wrapping It Up Generally, it isn't bad for your Lab puppy to sleep on the floor. So, it shouldn't be a cause of alarm unless it's associated with signs of pain. However, you should remember that puppies sleep between hours a day. Choosing an ideal spot for your Lab puppy to sleep is vital for his general well-being. Try keeping the floor clean, and if possible, throw a soft blanket in your puppy's favorite spot to make it a little more comfortable. Related: Does my dog need a bed in his crate? Can you imagine curling up beneath the covers on a hot summer night? The floor is ideal because it feels cool and provides some relief from the heat. It sounds weird, but my dog does it all of the time. Look at where your dog lays on the floor. Is it near a fireplace, heater, or other warm spots? That could give you some major clues, too. Related: Why has my dog stopped jumping? Some people like hard mattresses, while others can sleep only on something soft and fluffy. Ignore that advice. Instead, feel it with the BACK of your hand. Or better yet, your wrist. These areas are far more sensitive and should give you a better idea of just how comfortable the fabric really is. Small dogs are too insecure in large beds. They feel exposed to potential threats to lie down and sleep. On the other hand, the bed might be too small for your furbaby to stretch properly. In this case, a large mattress, like a Big Barker dog bed , might be what solves your problem. For small or medium-sized dogs, you might try nest beds. These beds have a lot of cushioning to keep your dog warm, and the cave-like structure makes your pet feel protected. And dogs are creatures of habit, and if they are used to the floor, they will sleep on the floor. Observe where your dog feels safe to lie down and place the bed there. When he does, give him a treat and praise him. Practice the routine several times a day. Just remember to focus on positive reinforcement. Never punish your dog for not using his bed. However, if your dog suddenly starts sleeping on hard surfaces and changes his behavior drastically, I would be worried. Depending on the type of bed and its location, your dog might be having difficulties jumping into the bed or waking up the stairs to reach his bed. As a dog grows old, certain joint conditions- such as arthritis and hip dysplasia- might affect his ability to move around. So, if you have an older dog, I would mention the change in sleeping arrangements as soon as possible to your vet. So, try airing out that new bed for 24 hours before you worry that Fido is completely and eternally rejecting it. Try moving it closer to where he usually sleeps. We had great success getting my dog to sleep on her bed by putting it in her favorite spot in the bedroom with us. Is it okay if my dog sleeps on the floor? Does sleeping on the floor hurt dogs? However, if your dog has arthritis, hip dysplasia, or other joint conditions it can lead to more aches and pains. Why does my dog sleep on my side of the bed on the floor? Take it as a compliment and a sign of your deep bond. Dogs do not care as much as we do about material things like beds. Sammy is probably more comfortable on the floor, and he will move to the bed when he feels like it. What do you think about these reasons why a dog sleeps on the floor instead of a bed? Do you agree or disagree? Share your opinion in the comments. Imagine spending hours trying to find the perfect dog bed for your canine companion. You go above and beyond when it comes to features! Maybe you spring for memory foam, cozy bolsters, and premium fabrics. When you take it home, you're super excited to give your dog all of the spoiled luxuries they deserve. But after a few minutes of trying it out, Your furry friend decides to sleep on the floor instead. Does that situation sound familiar? It's undoubtedly a frustrating experience. Despite your best efforts to provide the most comfortable bed possible, your dog may suddenly turn to the floor to get some shuteye. But why? It turns out that there are many potential reasons. Here are some of the most common and possible solutions you can use to encourage your dog to use a bed. Uncomfortable Temperatures Dogs need to be perfectly comfortable to get some sleep. Even some minor temperature issues can prevent them from getting a good night of rest. Your pup can't get up to change the thermostat. So, they have to rely on positioning and surroundings to get the level of comfort they need. A bed that's too hot or too cold is unappealing to pups. In the summer, you might notice your dog resorting to cold kitchen floors. There's a good chance that the overstuffed plush bed is way too warm. So, your pup goes to the cold tile instead! The same could happen during the winter. Your dog might prefer to sleep next to the heater vent or radiator instead of next to the cold window! Think about how you position the bed, its materials, and any accessories. Sometimes, switching up the location is enough to make it more comfortable as far as temperature is concerned. Alternatively, you can add a blanket or opt for well-ventilated materials. It can take some trial and error. But once you get things right, your dog should have no problem getting off the floor and using their bed again. Improper Bed Sizing Size is an essential factor when choosing a bed. If you ignore it, don't be surprised if your dog looks elsewhere to lay its head. For bigger dogs, beds that are too small can cause issues. Even if your dog's capable of sleeping on it curled into a ball, it might be problematic for stretching out. Your pooch needs to spread its legs and have enough room to change positions. If they can't do that in the bed, they have an open floor to utilize! You would think that smaller dogs are easier to please in this regard. However, that couldn't be farther from the truth. Tiny dogs often feel overwhelmed and scared when they have too much space. They'll feel exposed to potential threats. Plus, a more giant bed makes it harder to get warm. Whether your dog's big or small, always take measurements before buying a bed. Measure their length from top to bottom as they lay sprawled out on the floor. Use that as a guide to choose the right size. Most manufacturers offer a few models. Select the one that's closest to your dog's measurements, and you should be good to go. They Prefer a Different Spot Sometimes, the solution revolves around location. Is your dog's bed in a different room on the other side of the house? Did you put it downstairs as you sleep on the second floor? Whatever the case may be, it's not uncommon for dogs to take issues with being far away from you. Dogs like to sleep near their owners. It makes them feel comfortable and close to you. Instead of using that fancy bed you bought, most would rather sleep on the floor next to your bed. Try moving the bed closer to your own sleeping spot. Once again, it may take trial and error here. Some canines prefer to be right next to you. Others like the den-like feeling of being under your bed. Experiment a bit and let your dog find its sweet spot. Unwanted Sounds Here's something that most people don't even consider. Many beds can create unwanted noise that drives your dog mad! If you've ever tossed and turned on a squeaky bed frame, you can probably feel your dog's frustration. Not every bed is made of thick, high-quality materials. Some have fabrics that crinkle, liners that sound like they're constantly scratching on something, and piping that creaks. Some beds even have frames that squeak as bad as human metal beds! You have to remember that your dog's hearing is far more sensitive than yours. The noise you hear coming from the bed might not be a huge deal. But to your dog, it can be something that keeps them up at night. The only course of action here is to invest in a quieter bed. Look for a simpler model without all the unnecessary extras. It might be the peaceful haven your dog needs. The Bed Isn't as comfortable as it Seems Pure discomfort could be the issue with floor sleeping. Despite all of the plush extras, you never know what your dog will honestly think about their bed. Dogs have their personal preferences like humans. What you might find cozy may be irritating for Fido! For example, some dogs show an aversion to memory foam. For most people, it feels like sleeping on a cloud. However, dogs can find it challenging to use. Pay attention to how your dog interacts with their bed. If they have trouble getting up to move positions, the bed is likely causing some discomfort. Your pup may even cry out in pain or groan. After so many nights, most dogs will move to the floor. Pain and Irritation Seeing your dog sleep on the floor isn't an automatic cause for concern. But if it comes out of nowhere, it may be a sign of something more nefarious. Now, sleeping on a hard floor might sound counterproductive. But it's impossible to know what's going on in your dog's head. In some cases, sleeping on cold tiles can relieve pain. It's not uncommon to see dogs using tiles as a way to soothe joint or muscle pain. Others might avoid using a bed because of a broken spring or out-of-place piping that's constantly jabbing them in the side. Whatever the case may be, matters of pain aren't something you should ignore. Give the bed a good look-over and consider bringing your dog to a vet. If there is some hidden health issue at play, your vet can help diagnose the problem and provide proper care. Height and the Struggle of Aging Joints Senior dogs have many unique needs that younger pups don't have to consider. Rambunctious youngsters can leap on the couch without missing a beat. But at some point, your dog is going to have trouble even climbing a few inches to get into bed. Modern dog furniture is well-built and uses thick foam several inches deep. Sure, that layer of cushioning is excellent for relieving joints. However, getting into it prevents your dog from ever reaping the benefits. Once again, a trip to the vet is always a good idea. If your dog is suffering from joint pain, there's a lot you can do to provide relief. Beyond medication and joint supplements , you can modify the sleeping situation. Consider investing in a more senior-friendly model. Ramps and other accessories are also available to make things much more manageable. It's What They're Used To Finally, your dog might choose to sleep on the floor simply because it's what they're used to doing. You're more likely to see this from adopted dogs or those who didn't come from a good home. Your dog might start out using a beg. But those old habits can come back the moment they feel uneasy or scared. Even dogs that have spent several months sleeping on beds can resort back to their old way. Canines are creatures of comfort, and they prefer to stick to what they know. Breaking the habit isn't impossible, but it will take some time. Think about working with a trainer or behavioralist. They can help you develop a routine that breaks through those issues. Conclusion Dogs aren't super concerned with fancy furniture and over-the-top beds. They like to be comfortable, and many will look beyond the bed to get as cozy as possible. Try the tips we went over to see if you can coax your pup into using the bed you bought. But if they still prefer to sleep on the floor, don't fight it. Provide all the accessories they need to get comfortable. As long as they get enough shuteye, there's nothing wrong with enjoying the floor! Also read:.
Bugsy loves playing with the big dogs he currently resides with. He may look small but he has no fear and will jump right into the middle of any tussle. He loves playing with and chewing on his toys. His favorite hobby is collecting things toys, shoes, blankets, clothes and hoarding them into a pile then laying on it. He would make a great companion dog. He always follows his foster mom from room to room, making sure he knows where she is at all times. He has been introduced to cats and is very interested in them. He would love to play with them but the cats are not too fond of the idea. He would do best in a home with someone looking for an Active breed who is home quite a bit. A home where he has a dog brother or sister to keep him company would be a plus as he loves dogs of all sizes. Please Submit an Application if you are interested in Adopting this puppy. He is ready to go home tomorrow. The donation for this dog is .If you are reading this we are still accepting applications for consideration. Please do NOT Email asking if this dog is available. Dental surgery is done on dogs with severe dental disease. We hope our adopters follow suit. It takes business hours to process an application. We reserve the right to deny any application. Puppy Breeds The Pugs have been the top choice for royal families in the Netherlands and England at some point in time. Discover more about our Pug puppies for sale below! These traits make them effortlessly loved by their owners. The pug stands out physically; with bulky muscles, a wrinkly face, a curled tail, and a fine coat. Despite their physique, the pugs are categorized as toy dogs, this buttresses their intimacy with humans. Breed History The pug has origins majorly from China and Netherland. The Modern pugs are imported from China; the earliest breeds have also been known to originate from there. However, the pugs have a history with royal families in the Netherlands and England. The Modern style pugs were brought in to Britain in from China. The pugs were tended by the ruling families in China. The imperial court kept pugs because they were treasured by the Emperors who assigned guards to protect them while they the pugs lived in extravagance. Keeping pugs in Europe started at the House of Orange in the Netherlands. The pug became the official pug of the house after it saved the Prince of Orange from Assassins. Although these pugs were said to have been brought from China, the pugs from Europe at that time, as seen in pictures depict longer legs and nose. The pugs became prominent in the United States in the nineteenth century. They easily became family companions and show dogs. They became recognized by the American Kennel Club in .This occurred in , it was the first time a pug would be winning the show since it began. Temperament The pug would do anything to please its owners this is what makes them suitable to keep in many homes. Their loyalty is unwavering, they do well with children their calmness and sturdy physique allows them to tolerate children easily. Their Alertness makes them good security dogs but they are not predominantly used for security purposes. Pugs are stubborn, but this does not transform into aggressive manners. Environment The pug thrives indoors. It is usually kept close to families that own it. It is classified by most Kennel Clubs as a toy dog. Despite their adaptation to heat, pugs cannot thrive well outdoors in hot and humid regions Exercise Pugs do not require high-intensity exercises; however moderate exercising will be sufficient. A reserved and reasonable amount of space for the dog to move around is ideal. Grooming The pugs have a fine coat that is sufficient to protect them from heat and cold. Maintaining a pug has low requirements. However, wrinkles and eyes have to be cleaned daily. Our Pugs puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. Contact us today to learn more about the availability of our Pugs puppies for sale. We look forward to helping you find your next family member. Our pet counselors can answer any questions you have about our Pugs puppies. Yes, pugs have a shallow eye socket. Therefore, excess force around the eyes can lead to the eyes falling out. This condition is called ocular proptosis. It is also common to other dogs that have shallow eyes sockets and big bulging eyes; Bulldogs, Pekingese and Chihuahuas. Do Pugs snore? The pug is a brachycephalic dog breed; having a short muzzle and a flat face. This makes breathing difficult and leads to the pug snoring. The pug is more likely to develop eyesight problems that could cause blindness. Their bulging eyes also make them susceptible to eye injuries. What are the foods I should avoid feeding my Pug with? Avoid mushrooms, onions, garlic, and avocados. Green tomatoes and Raw potatoes are also harmful. Do not give any alcohol and caffeine-containing food. Is the Pug good with family? Yes, the pug regardless of its physical outlook is very friendly and playful. Its history of intimacy with humans makes it suitable for the family. Can Pugs be left alone? However, it is okay to leave your dog alone for about 8 hours. Note that pugs are companion dogs and want to be with their owners all the time. Why are Pugs hyperactive? Pugs have been bred for a very long time as companion dogs. They naturally get excited about seeing their owners and this leads to a series of hyperactive displays. Would a Pug ever calm down? Pugs generally become less hyperactive as they grow older. A pug might reach about 2 years of age before showing signs of calmness. However, a calmer adult pug will occasionally go into a hyperactive mode when exited. Keep your dog from situations that will result in a fight. Maintain healthy conditions for your pug and yourself; avoid smoking, it can be harmful to your dog Do Pugs drool? All dogs drool to a certain extent. However, your pug might drool more given the architecture of its mouth. Its loose and large lips contribute to some drooling, especially when engaged in any physical activity. The pug Is a very playful dog, alert and even-tempered dog. Good with family and children especially. Clingy and popular dubbed as a shadow, this loving dog will follow you everywhere you go. Name Required.
Home Delivery Select a variant to view product availability Royal Canin knows what makes your German Shepherd puppy magnificent is in the details. These highly intelligent and playful puppies have big nutritional needs as they develop into faithful watchdogs. They can benefit from the right large breed growth formula to provide immune system support and bone and joint health—as well as support digestive health—all of which is important for the breed during puppyhood. Royal Canin German Shepherd dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed puppy. Whether you call them a German Shepherd or an Alsatian, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated to your puppy, with the specific nutrients to help them thrive. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune system and keeps their body growing strong. Highly digestible proteins and specific fibers maintain digestive health since this breed has a tendency to have poor stool quality. And glucosamine and chondroitin support healthy bones and joints as your puppy grows to be a big dog. Once your German Shepherd puppy is over 15 months old, transition them to Royal Canin German Shepherd Adult dog food for precise nutrition into their adult years. Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your pet's temperament, activity level and environment. If you have any questions regarding your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. Transition Instructions We recommend at least a 7 day transition before you begin feeding the new food exclusively. On the 7th day, you can feed the new food exclusively. All of our dry diets are preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols, citric acid, and rosemary extract. Our canned diets are naturally preserved and sterilized during the cooking and canning process. Where do the ingredients in Royal Canin diets come from? Royal Canin is making strides towards sustainability by attempting to obtain sources of raw materials as close to each manufacturing facility as possible. In some cases, we use international suppliers, because only those suppliers can offer raw materials that comply with our quality and food safety standards. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain by-products? Royal Canin chooses ingredients because they deliver high-quality nutrients that support our customized pet food formulas. Using chicken by-product meal instead of chicken meal for example will allow Royal Canin to maintain its highly customized nutrient standards while achieving a more secure and sustainable supply. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain grains? As always, we focus on the nutrients each ingredient provides and grains can provide many important nutrients. How do you ensure Royal Canin diets are safe for my pet? Our Quality and Food Safety systems are state-of-the-art and we continue to invest heavily in new technology to make sure they remain that way. We monitor every load delivered to our plants to verify the safety and quality of the ingredients we use to make pet food. We perform tests on finished pet foods before they are shipped to our customers. How do I know which Royal Canin diet is right for my pet? Based on size, age, lifestyle, and breed, each cat or dog has unique nutritional needs. For healthy pets, use our Product Selector to find the right diet for your cat or dog. If your pet is experiencing health issues, please refer to your veterinarian for more information. Your veterinarian will consider multiple factors when recommending an appropriate diet.
german shepherd puppy birth - Check out our guides on best dog food for Doodle puppies here. The age at which a Bernedoodle reaches its maximum height is very much dependent on their type. Smaller dogs, such as Tiny Bernedoodles naturally achieve this much earlier at around months, while with Standard Bernedoodles may take up to 14 months to get to their full size. Miniature Bernedoodles will sit somewhere between this at months. When they get to their adult size, they will likely continue to grow outwards as their muscles develop. This means their weight will continue to go up. You can calculate their potential adult weight by taking what they weigh at 18 weeks and multiplying it by two. Medium and Miniature Bernedoodles Medium and Miniature Bernedoodles usually get to half their full weight around 3. You can calculate their potential adult weight at 18 weeks by taking what they weigh at that age and multiplying it by two. Standard Bernedoodles Standard Bernedoodles usually get to half their full weight around 4. You can calculate their potential adult weight at 23 weeks by taking what they weigh at that age and multiplying it by two. While there are no guarantees with hybrid dogs breeds, careful observation of the various types and generations of Bernedoodles now allows us to make some pretty decent predictions on their adult size and weight. Their specific rate of growth, as well as their final size, has a lot to do with the type of parent Poodle used in the original, as well as in any subsequent breeding. This enables us to categorize Bernedoodles in Standard, Miniature and Tiny sizes. Smaller dogs will attain their adult size much sooner than their larger counterparts who may not reach full maturity until well into a year of their lives. Either way, their weight is likely to continue to increase even once their size is fixed. Hopefully, the information included here will allow you to do that with a fair degree of accuracy. It is not intended to be a substitute for qualified professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified animal health provider with any questions you may have. You Might Also Like. There are four Bernedoodle sizes—tiny, mini, medium, and standard. Read on to find out how big do Bernedoodles get, what impacts the height and weight of a Bernedoodle, and when do Bernedoodles stop growing! The Toy Poodle stands around 10 inches in height and weighs between 6 and 9 pounds. The Mini Bernedoodle size varies between inches in height and pounds. Although you should always be careful about selecting a responsible doodle breeder , you should be even more wary when considering a toy or teacup size. Unfortunately, there are some unethical breeders out there who prioritize tiny stature over healthy puppies and those dogs often have major health problems throughout their life. Click here to get an instant, online pet insurance quote from Healthy Paws! How big do Tiny Bernedoodles get? On average, the full grown Tiny Bernedoodle size is around 17 inches tall 50 cm and weighs between 10 pounds and 24 pounds. Cody the Tiny Bernedoodle is 18 pounds. Photo courtesy of Caryn Zeman on Facebook. The Mini Poodle is around 15 inches in height, and pounds in weight. The Bernese Mountain Dog, on the other hand, is inches in height and pounds. How big do Mini Bernedoodles get? The full grown Mini Bernedoodle size varies between inches at the shoulder cm and they weigh around 25 pounds to 50 pounds. Luna the Mini Bernedoodle is 28 pounds. Photo courtesy of Christa Szczepanski Savage on Facebook. It is often used to describe larger Miniature Bermedoodles or smaller Standard Bernedoodles. How big do Medium Bernedoodles get? The Medium Bernedoodle size is generally between inches tall at the shoulder. Lucy Belle the Medium Bernedoodle is 40 pounds. Photo courtesy of Skinny Kidplaying on Facebook. The Standard Poodle is inches in height at the shoulder and weighs pounds. The Bernese Mountain Dog is usually slightly larger at inches in height, and pounds in weight. How big do Standard Bernedoodles get? A Standard Bernedoodle is generally between inches tall at the shoulder centimeters. While the weight of a Standard Bernedoodle starts at 50 pounds, they typically are between 70 and 90 pounds and can even go above pounds! Calvin the Standard Bernedoodle is 95 pounds. Photo courtesy of Lisa M. Harkins on Facebook. What Impacts the Height and Weight of a Bernedoodle? Some of these include their gender, the height and weight of the parents, and which generation of Bernedoodle your dog is. The combination of all of these factors make it somewhat difficult to predict exactly how big your dog will be, but it helps us come up with a general estimate. First, their gender plays a role in answering the question of how big do Bernedoodles get. Should you choose a male vs female Bernedoodle? In most cases, the height and weight of a male Bernedoodle will be slightly larger than a female Bernedoodle. In the smaller Tiny Bernedoodle size and Mini Bernedoodle size, the height and weight difference between males and females may not be as noticeable as with the larger Medium Bernedoodle size and Standard Bernedoodle size. Another important aspect to consider is the size of the parents. The genetics that are passed from the parents to their offspring play a role in how large a Bernedoodle will get. However, keep in mind that genetics are tough to predict. Finally, which generation of Bernedoodle your dog is will be a big part of how big they will get! Check out our article on Bernedoodle generations to learn more! Put simply, a Bernedoodle that has more Poodle than Bernese Mountain dog could be slightly smaller than a Bernedoodle that has more Bernese Mountain dog than Poodle. Simply, the higher percentage of the larger dog, the larger the dog is likely to be. When Do Bernedoodles Stop Growing? Savor these puppy days— time will fly by before you know it! Bernedoodles usually reach full size anywhere from 1. Just like other factors, this relies significantly on genetics. Bernese Mountain Dogs, like other large breeds, tend to grow over a longer period of time. Poodles, on the other hand, are a smaller breed and are generally done growing by 18 months of age. Due to differences in stature, in general, a Tiny Bernedoodle will be fully grown sooner than a Mini Bernedoodle, which will be fully grown before a Medium Bernedoodle or a Standard Bernedoodle. Related Articles:. Bernedoodle Temperament The Bernedoodle combines the intelligence of a poodle with the loyalty and easygoing temperament of a Bernese mountain dog, resulting in a cross that has all the best qualities of the two breeds. One of the most important characteristics to consider is Bernedoodle size, which varies based on whether the parent dogs are small, medium or large. Bernese Mountain Dog Size According to the American Kennel Club, a female Bernese mountain dog usually stands 23 to 26 inches high and weighs an average of 70 to 95 pounds , while a male Bernese mountain dog averages 25 to .The standard poodle is typically over 15 inches tall and weighs between 40 and 50 pounds for a female or 60 to 70 pounds for a male. Toy poodles are much smaller, with a standard height of no more than 10 inches and an average weight of 4 to 6 pounds. Bernedoodle Size Options Bernedoodle dogs come in four different sizes: micro, mini, medium and standard. The size of a Bernedoodle puppy depends on the size of its parents. Micro Bernedoodle Size The micro bernedoodle is a cross between a mini bernedoodle and a mini poodle. Also referred to as a toy bernedoodle, the micro version of this breed tends to be more excitable than larger bernedoodles due to the heavy influence of the toy poodle in its breeding line. Full-grown micro bernedoodles typically weigh 10 to 30 pounds. Mini Bernedoodle Size Mini bernedoodles are the result of breeding between Bernese mountain dogs and mini or toy poodles. Average mini bernedoodle size ranges from 25 to 55 pounds. Medium Bernedoodle Size The next largest bernedoodle size is the medium bernedoodle, which results from a cross between two smaller standard bernedoodle dogs or a smaller standard poodle with a smaller Bernese mountain dog. Average medium bernedoodle size ranges from 45 to 70 pounds. These dogs typically have a shoulder height of 20 to 26 inches. Standard Bernedoodle Size A standard-size bernedoodle is the largest of the bernedoodle size options, usually weighing 70 pounds or more and measuring 23 to 29 inches high at the shoulder. There are two ways to produce a bernedoodle puppy: cross two standard bernedoodles or breed one poodle with one Bernese mountain dog. Allowing a poodle to mate with a Bernese mountain dog usually produces a healthier bernedoodle puppy because it pulls from a larger gene pool, reducing the risk that undesirable characteristics will be passed from the parents to the puppy. No matter what size it is, a Bernedoodle puppy has a wonderful temperament. The influence of the poodle makes bernedoodles intelligent and easy to train, while the influence of the Bernese mountain dog makes a Bernedoodle puppy loyal and a bit goofy. Trained properly, a Bernedoodle makes a wonderful companion for children and adults alike. Size is an important consideration, however, as it affects how well a Bernedoodle fits into your home. You may also want to consider a micro or mini bernedoodle if you have arthritis or another medical condition that would make it challenging to control a large dog on a leash. Micro and mini bernedoodles also make excellent companions for young children. Larger bernedoodles are an option if you have a larger home with plenty of room for exercise. Bernedoodle Size and Temperament Remember that the size of a Bernedoodle also affects its temperament. Smaller versions have more poodle characteristics, meaning they may have more energy than medium or standard bernedoodles. Micro and mini bernedoodles also tend to bark more than their larger counterparts. If you live in an apartment building or condominium, you may want to get a medium or standard bernedoodle to keep your neighbors happy. All four Bernedoodle sizes have positive qualities, but be sure to consider your living situation and personal needs when determining which one is right for you. Thinking carefully before you choose your Bernedoodle puppy can help you avoid some of the most common challenges of dog ownership. To learn more about our breeding standards or reserve a bernedoodle of your very own, contact us at or visit our website. Since then, other breeders have followed suit, producing more dogs that families can enjoy. Bernedoodle Characteristics Why would breeders want to combine these two dogs? They wanted the positive characteristics of the Bernese Mountain Dog without the heavy shedding, short lifespan, and propensity for cancer. By crossing the Bernese with Poodles, they were able to create the perfect companion dog while eliminating some of these issues. Bernedoodle Size Breeders may mix the Bernese with a standard, medium, or mini Poodle to create different sizes of the hybrid breed. No matter the size, these dogs are typically very gentle around the elderly and children and make great therapy and service dogs. They are easy to train and love being part of the family. Is Bernedoodle An Official Breed? Like all puppies, Bernedoodles experience their most rapid growth between birth and two weeks of age. Birth to 2 Weeks A newborn will weigh around one pound, and you can expect that to double within the first week or so. At three months, your puppy is likely to have reached about 30 percent of her total growth. He is likely to still have a voracious appetite and will be very playful and active. This is when obedience training becomes very important, as you want to teach your puppy some standard commands sit, down, stay and help him to understand his boundaries before he gets too big to handle. Keep in mind that the type of Bernedoodle you have will affect these growth stages. Smaller ones will grow more quickly and may attain their adult size by six to eight months. Larger ones will take longer. She may start to act more mature at this age too, though larger Bernedoodles may retain their puppy attitudes until they reach two years of age. Standard Bernedoodles will need large-breed puppy food, while mini ones will do better with small-breed varieties. These are specifically formulated to help optimize growth. Choose the highest quality food you can that is free of fillers, chemicals, and unnecessary ingredients. Look for those with a quality protein source listed first—real meat is best, including chicken, beef, pork, fish, and lamb. Then feed your puppy three to four times a day until he reaches one year old. This helps avoid bloat, which can turn dangerous in some instances. Smaller, more frequent meals are better for your Bernedoodle. As your dog grows, keep an eye on his weight. Overweight and obesity in puppies can lead to health problems later in life. Instead, establish a regular feeding schedule early on. Feed your pup at the same time each day, three times a day. When he reaches one year old, switch to quality adult food. If you can see the hip or rib bones, your dog may be underweight. Gradually increase his food amount until his body shape matches that of a healthy dog. Increase his exercise and reduce the food amount only slightly until his shape returns. Be careful feeding your Bernedoodle treats. Stick to your feeding schedule, avoid feeding your dog human scraps, and when you do treat, use healthy products specifically made for dogs. How big your Bernedoodle will get depends heavily on his parents and the size of the Poodles in his background. If you purchased him from a breeder, gather all the information you can on his parents and grandparents, as that will help you estimate his final size. As with many other animals, males are typically larger than females, though the difference in Bernedoodles may be only about 10 percent. There are a couple of formulas you can use to estimate the fully grown size of your puppy. Both are based on age. At about 15 weeks, your Bernedoodle will be about 50 percent of his total body weight. At that point, you can just double it to get an estimate of his final weight. You can check smaller varieties sooner, between 12 and 15 weeks. Another option is to use a DNA test. When Do Bernedoodles Stop Growing? When you can expect your Bernedoodle to stop growing depends on its size. Standard Bernedoodles will be close to their adult size at one year but may continue to grow until they reach two years or later. Smaller sizes will reach their adult height sooner—around 9 months of age.
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german shepherd puppy birth - Read on for detailed tips on when you should expect your Labradoodle to be trained and milestone ages. Did you know that back in , Labradoodles were bred by an Australian breeder Wally Conron for a blind woman whose husband had a dog allergy? Since then, Labradoodles have only grown in popularity. The average lifespan of a Labradoodle is around 10 to 14 years , and they come in three different sizes — miniature or toy, medium, and standard. Their sizes can also affect how they behave. Your Labradoodle will undergo various changes through every stage in their lives. Their five different life stages include: Puppyhood — 1 to 5 months Adolescence — 6 to 18 months Adulthood — until three years of age Middle Age — until seven years of age Old Age — the last stage; until 12 to 14 years of age. At every stage, your Labradoodle will depict different behaviors, and you will have to modify how you train them accordingly. Can Labradoodles smile? The correct training approach is to start coaching your Labradoodles from the first day when you bring them home. Compared to adult dogs, puppies are easier to train. You will have a much easier and fun time training them when and where to pee, how to socialize, how not to put everything in their mouth, how to stay away from chewing the new sofa set, etc. First 30 Days with a Labradoodle The first 30 days are an exciting time with new Labradoodles. With a crossbreed, you often have no idea what surprises are about to unfold. Your furry friend will obviously go on to explore every nook and cranny of your house. While you might feel like spending every second cuddling and playing around with them, this is the time when you should start training your dog. The sooner you begin, the more adaptable the routine becomes to the dog. When they are young, it is recommended that you initiate the process of Early Scent Introduction to amplify their senses. This will allow them to quickly identify and react to particular smells. A helpful activity is putting a leash on your Labradoodle while it walks around the house and sniffs different household objects. You can also include a few more games and habits into their routine to make them put their senses to good use. You will often find them jumping around the house and licking everyone. All their sensory organs will be heightened, so behaviors like wagging their tails and play-biting people will be common. If their erratic behavior changes are not kept in check, you might even find them baring teeth at anyone who attempts to touch their belongings or fiddle with the safe environment they are used to. Potty Training This is the age to establish a potty schedule for your puppy. Include multiple potty breaks throughout the day so that the dog knows where to go to release themselves. Train them to hold their pee in until they reach their designated point. Every time they successfully pee outside , make sure to reward them with a treat. Leash Training Leashes are going to be a life-long friend of your dogs. Make sure you introduce them to the concept of a leash right from the very beginning. It will help your Labradoodle get accustomed to the feeling of having a leash around them every time they are taken for a walk. When at home, put the leash on the dog, and let them walk around freely without pulling on it. Two Labradoodles sniff eachother out at a dog park. The puppyhood phase is about to end, and the new adulthood chapter is about to commence. By this time, they should have mastered most of the training commands and techniques so you can move on to teaching them more advanced training options. Loose leash training, clicker, and positive reinforcement training all become possible now. We must keep a strict eye on reinforcing positive behavior and obedience and redirect unwanted behavior with just as much consistency as when they were a young puppy. By this time, your dog should also be vaccinated, so they can go to a nearby park and play with other dogs. Command Training This is the stage when you start teaching your Labradoodle some basic commands. The best way to introduce it is during their mealtime. You can hold the food in your hands and use it to lure them. Identify a definite marker that you can use to communicate to your Labradoodle if they perform a particular command correctly or incorrectly. Sit with your Labradoodle on the floor and play around to try to communicate with them. Make them comfortable with your touch and sound. Find other puppies that your Labradoodle can spend time with. It is a good idea to begin socializing your puppy to help them become more comfortable with humans as well as other dogs. This will also reduce the risk of anxiety and fear, help them listen to others better, and ensure that they live a fulfilling and happy life. Regardless of what training routine you establish for your dog, make sure you only do it through positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is a reward-based training option. So, if your dog successfully performs a task or follows a command, you praise them or reward them with treats. You can use a favorite treat or a toy to encourage them to follow the command again. Avoid punishing your dog at all costs as it would instill life-long fear in them. Use puzzle toys and different mentally stimulating exercises to improve their physical and mental capabilities even simple food toys like frozen Kongs or slow feeder bowls do the trick. Our best Labradoodle name ideas. I am sure you have been planning the arrival of your Labradoodle and are excited for all the joy and happiness they are about to bring into your life. I got a puppy a few months back too, and there are a few tips I wish someone had told me about before: Have two separate bowls ready for your Labradoodle — one for food and one for water. Feed them with food specific to their breed, and make sure to replace their bowl with fresh water every day. Proper nutrition and a balanced diet are part and parcel of a good puppy training routine. You can also treat them with a toy every time they follow the commands you teach them. Invest in a comfortable dog bed. Although bedding can be expensive, your Labradoodle needs a decent place to relax. Make sure the size of the bed is appropriate, neither too big nor too small. Puppy-proof your house before the new member settles in. Keeping the electrical cords out of reach, properly latching the doors and windows to avoid risking your puppy wandering off, and designating a specific bathroom area for the puppy are some of the vital precautions you must take. It not only keeps them clean and smelling fresh but also eliminates the risk of illnesses and diseases in your dog. But they still need to be regularly groomed to avoid matting. To do this, however, you need to train your Labradoodles to be comfortable with the different grooming tools and sit still for some time. Here are a few tips on how you can do that successfully: Sensitize your Labradoodle to the sounds of different grooming equipment like nail trimmers, scissors, combs, brushes, etc. Play with their paws and make them feel comfortable. You should massage their feet and touch their nails to make them feel at ease with your touch. The more you delay grooming your dog regularly, the more complex and painful the procedure will get. Brushing becomes easy, pain-free, and you will be surprised to see your Labradoodle eventually starting to look forward to it. While doing facial trims, your dog needs to remain calm and still. To do a facial trim, gently hold their head in one hand and rest their chin on another. There are high chances your dog will be placed in a crate when attending grooming sessions at a salon. So make them accustomed to being placed inside a crate at home. You can keep their favorite toys and treats inside to make them feel more comfortable. Most of the advanced Labradoodle training options and methods are built on basic training methods. If your Labradoodle has successfully mastered basic training skills, the advanced training period will be relatively easy. If you want your dog to behave even better and learn new tricks, or get them registered as a service dog or a guide dog, or make them participate in an upcoming dog event, you can consider enrolling them in professional advanced training courses. Labradoodles, as the name suggests, are a cross between Poodles and Labradors, combining the best characteristics of both breeds. Labradoodles are bred to be friendly and loving and they are very easy to train. In terms of background, if the breeder or adoption service you got your pup from did not start any training, then you will have to start slow and be patient. A Labradoodle that has been trained and brought up well can serve as the perfect service dog, guide dog, or therapy dog. Are Labradoodles Easy To Train? Labradoodles are great companions that can fit in as easily in a large family as they can in a small one. They are easy to train, friendly, social, and intelligent. If they are trained consistently, they develop a friendly temperament and bond well with their owners. Do Labradoodles Bark Excessively? As with any other breed of dog, Labradoodles are at high risk of barking excessively if they are not adequately trained or if their day-to-day requirements are not met. A Labradoodle has a lot of energy. If the energy is not channeled in the right place through coaching, exercising, and proper stimulation, they might get stressed and anxious and bark unreasonably. A Red Miniature Labradoodle looks happy in the studio. Final Words The happiness that comes with having a Labradoodle as your companion and raising them is unmatched. However, as with any other dog, training them involves hard work and discipline. I hope this guide makes Labradoodle training easy for you. The biggest hurdle you may face when training your dog is a lack of motivation and consistency. Luckily, Labradoodles are inclined to learn from their owners quicker than other 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. But in the early days, we recommend keeping them close to you at night. It will help them feel safe and cared for — leaving their litter is quite a big step, after all. Your puppy may be unsettled and will most likely need at least one bathroom break through the night. It will all be okay in a few weeks time, though. The crate should be a cozy warm den for your puppy. Soft blankets and a cuddly toy should do the trick to help them settle. It is also a good idea to cover over the sides but keep the front uncovered so your pup can still see out. Just before bed, take your pup out for one last potty stop. With that beautiful voice of yours, gently reassure them and rest your hand in the crate so they know you are there. When your puppy wakes up in the night they definitely will at some point , listen to see if they are settling back down. Expect to be out at or am to take them straight to the loo. They will be bursting! That just about covers the first steps of Labradoodle sleep training. Very tired. But early mornings, late nights and disturbed sleep are all part of owning a puppy. As they mature emotionally and settle into their new home they will be happy in other parts of the house, and even outside of their crate. Having them in your room does not cause separation anxiety later on. Stick to a routine! Consistency is everything. It will backfire on you. Check out our guide on how to get a puppy to sleep through the night for more tips. Alone Training Labradoodles are very sociable. That can mean two things — they will always be happy to see you and that being alone can be challenging for them. This will help them feel at ease without you and also help them love their crate a little bit more too. While they are eating, go and do something close by. No need to go completely out of sight, but try not to focus on your puppy either. Labradoodles love to eat, so use this time wisely to distract them away from you. Just a few seconds is good enough in the early stages. Repeat: Practice makes perfect! Do this exercise at least once a day to build up alone time, and check out our guide to puppy separation anxiety. We expand on our little secret in our puppy potty training article. Every 30 minutes, after eating, sleeping or playing. Socialization Exercises to do This Week Early socialization is important for all puppies. It gives them confidence and teaches them to view the world in an optimistic way. Here are some puppy socialization exercises to do with your Labradoodle. Let your Labradoodle Puppy Explore the Yard The yard is a great way to introduce your puppy to the great outdoors. They will also get used to walking on different types of surfaces such as your tiled, wet lawn or open flower beds. To get them there, here is a quick exercise you can run through: Exploring different surfaces exercise Have plenty of treats ready. Only use safe surfaces, nothing too slippery. Gather surfaces such as: A piece of carpet A large tray with a thin layer of water A large piece of tin foil or cardboard, something that makes a noise. Put the surfaces out on the floor and let your puppy investigate. Let them take their time and go at their own pace. In our experience Labradoodles are quite food motivated, and you can probably use a low or medium value treat for this. You can even try to use their kibble as many will be delighted to work for their food. For more info on what rewards to use check out our article on rewards and treats. Teach your puppy their name One of the first things your puppy will learn from you is their name. Fortunately, teaching a Labradoodle puppy their name is rather simple. Pretty easy, right? Practice this a few times everyday until they start flipping their head at you every time you call their name. Make sure everyone in the family uses the same name too! Teach your puppy to sit Labradoodle training is often started by teaching them how to sit. We call this a marker word. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow with a tasty treat. Bits of smelly sausage or cheese will definitely do the trick. If this happens, try to keep it simple at first and just use their own kibble if they are motivated to work for it. Save the big guns in treat terms for when you really need it! How to do it Always begin training at home. The outside world is far too exciting at the moment, and your puppy will probably not focus on you. Stand in front of your pup with a treat in your hand and place the treat on their nose, then bring it up to your waist. Recall — How to teach your Labradoodle puppy to come back when called Your puppy should have a good grasp of their name by now, which should make recall training pretty straightforward. Pun intended. How to do it You will need plenty of those high value treats and your best cheery voice. Call your puppy only once! This is super important as you want them to learn that their name only has to be called once for them to react to it. How to do it Get your puppy excited by showing them their favorite toy and making it come to life by waving it around. Once they are interested in the toy, throw it a short distance away from you. With that lovely singing voice of yours, encourage them to bring it back to you. When they do, swap the toy in their mouth for another identical toy. Repeat about 5 times and practice everyday. Get your puppy excited by showing them their favorite toy and making it come to life by waving it around. Prevention of Resource Guarding This part of Labradoodle training is important — it will prevent resource guarding by teaching your puppy how to give up items willingly. Resource guarding is this thing that happens when dogs are unwilling to give up items back, or when they get protective over something from humans or other dogs. From the training tips above, preventing resource guarding always comes down to a good swapping. Resource guarding starts when we force our dogs as puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. To avoid that, resist your temptation to reach deep inside their mouths to get whatever it is they have. Ultimately, we want our puppies to be willing to give things up when we need them to. What we really mean is care, handling, health and grooming. Start by just showing them the brush and running it over them with the apartment side so they get used to the sensation minus the bristles. Hand Touch and Handling If you handle your puppy too roughly or grab at them, not only are they going to have a bit of a fright, but it could make them feel scared about being touched in the future. Use plenty of treats, and remember to stop if they walk away. Touch should be a pleasant thing not forced. Week 2 — Training your Labradoodle puppy Week 2 already! Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Fireworks — Watch the world go by outside your house — Play dress up. Get Started Labradoodle Training We know how challenging it can be training your doodle puppy, and adjusting your new puppy's schedule and routine to yours. Below are some tips and suggestions on how to make your puppies first few weeks together with you and your family a stress free and exciting time for all involved! Bringing Your New Puppy Home The first few days home with you, can be overwhelming for your new puppy. Everything is a new experience to them. Try to bring the puppy into your home during a time that is slow for you. Once you arrive home with your puppy, you want to start a routine as quickly as possible. Try giving your puppy a few minutes of playtime before beginning any training. This is brought on by the stress of a big change, and as long as it is not excessive or bloody, it is nothing to be concerned about. High quality Puppy and Dog foods have all the necessary vitamins and nutrients that your dog needs. One ingredient to avoid in your puppy food is corn. Corn offers little nutritional value and is mostly a filler. You may feed your puppy whatever food you prefer. However, If you are changing foods, you want to do it slowly to give them a chance to adjust to the new food. Each day, gradually add more of the new food and less of the old food. If changed too quickly, the puppy may experience diarrhea. Once in the morning and once at night. We recommend the evening feeding to occur by - pm. It is recommended that you do this until they are around 6 months of age. Remember to offer water every 2 to 4 hours, not just when offering food. As with feeding we don't like to give water too close to bedtime when training a labradoodle puppy. House Training Your Labradoodle Puppy "The key to house training is to prevent accidents from happening in the first place. Such deterrence may seem impossible if you have a puppy that seems to eliminate every few minutes. But by following a few simple steps, you can teach your canine companion proper potty deportment. Pick A Potty Spot - Choose a grassy area that is close to your home and easy to clean up. Whenever your puppy needs to go, take him to this spot and use the same route to get there every time. Supervise Your Puppy - To prevent accidents, watch your puppy closely whenever he's not confined. Get Him A Den a crate, more on that below - When you can't watch your puppy, put him where accidents are less likely to occur: In a crate. The crate is a safe, enclosed area where your puppy will instinctively refrain from eliminating. Put your puppy in its crate any time you can't watch it every single second, but don't leave your pup there too long. No more than one hour longer than its age in months four hours for a 3-month-old dog. Keep A Schedule - Puppies need to eliminate after sleeping, eating, and playing, and before bedtime. By setting up a schedule for those activities, you can make your puppy's bathroom breaks more predictable and greatly reduce the likelihood of accidents. Stick With It - It may take awhile before your puppy becomes trained. If this process sounds like work ,it is, but the better you do it -or in other words, the fewer accidents you have while training-the more quickly your dog will succeed. Crate Training Your Labradoodle I have heard many people say that crate training is mean and only serves as a punishment to the dog. They couldn't be more wrong. These are some of the many benefits of crate training: Crates are perfect for the dog to sleep in. When a dog is coming into a home where other dogs already live, the crate is a safe place for the new dog. You should never confine your pet as a form of punishment. Make sure that you invest in a good sturdy crate made either of hard plastic or of heavy steel wire. Cages with rounded edges make it easier to clean them. Make sure the cage is big enough for the dog. Puppies need a cage that is appropriate for their size. They have crates that can be divided so that a large cage can work for a smaller puppy. This eliminates the need to buy several different cages as the puppy grows. We hope you have success training your doodle puppy and find it as rewarding as we have! Follow Along on Social Media! Popular Links. If you put in the effort early on, then you will be rewarded with a well-mannered dog who will be a joy to spend time with for years to come. Labradoodles are intelligent, friendly, and playful, but if you let your youngster do whatever he wants and allow him to think that he is the boss, then you may well end up with a naughty, attention-seeking adult. Lack of training usually plays a big part in why the dog develops some unwanted behavior traits. If you want a dog that you can take anywhere and who will be a perfect companion, rather than a pain in the neck, then spend time early on teaching him some manners and your ground rules. You may consider seeking the help of a professional trainer, but that option may not be practical or within the budget. This way, your puppy will get to learn and socialize with other dogs at the same time. You could also watch some Labradoodle training videos on YouTube, but it should not replace training with other dogs. If you decide to train your Doodle yourself, then remember the golden rule: training should always be based on rewards and not punishment. It should be a positive learning experience for both of you. Labradoodles can be sensitive little critters, and bawling at the top of your voice or smacking should not play any part in training. Are Labradoodles Easy to Train? Labradoodles are very intelligent and generally regarded as easy to train due to their easy-going temperaments and desire to connect with and please their humans. They have curious minds, and most will thrive on training if they get the chance to exercise their grey matter with some fun. Some Labradoodles are professionally trained to a very high standard to become guide or therapy dogs. Over the years, Labradoodles, especially Australian Labradoodles , have been bred with a specific easy-going temperament in mind. Early Labradoodles were often headstrong and hyper-active, but well-bred Aussie Doodles these days usually have great personalities and fit well into family life. Like most dogs, Labradoodles are pack animals and hierarchical. They respect the pecking order and are happy when they know and are comfortable with their place in it. They need to learn their place in the pack and accept you as a pack leader. You cannot force this on a dog by shouting and hitting. It has to be established by the natural order of things like mutual consent and brought about by proper training. If your puppy is not made aware of his place in the household and the rules to abide by, then he will end up ruling you and your family. Be firm, but never aggressive with your dog. If you do it wrong then, you will either frighten him or teach him to be aggressive. Keep training short and fun, especially at the beginning. If you have adopted an older dog, you can still train him, but it is a lot harder for them to unlearn bad habits. Training Tip 2: Your voice is your most important training tool Your dog has to learn to understand your language. The tone of your voice is very important. You should command in a calm, authoritative voice without shouting. Praise the puppy in a cheerful, encouraging voice, followed by a stroke or a pat. If your dog has done something wrong, use a firm, stern voice, not a harsh scream. This rule still applies even if your Labradoodle is unresponsive at the beginning. Training Tip 3: Only give command that you can enforce Labradoodles are intelligent dogs. Training Tip 4: Train your dog gently and humanely. Use positive and motivational methods to teach your puppy. Keep training sessions upbeat, so the whole experience is enjoyable for both of you. Training Tip 5: Begin your training from home How well your dog responds to you at home affects his behavior away from home as well. Training Tip 6: One command equals one response Give your dog only one command — twice maximum — then gently enforce it. Repeating commands or nagging will make your Labradoodle tune out. It also tells him that the first few commands are a bluff. But a relationship based on fear is not a good one, and it will undermine your relationship with him. He should trust that when he hears his name, good things happen. His name should always be a word that your Doodle responds to with enthusiasm, never hesitancy or fear. If he gets lots of attention when he jumps up on you, his bad behavior gets reinforced. Training Tip Timing is critical When your puppy does something right, praise him immediately. Similarly, when he does something wrong, correct him straight away. This technique works surprisingly well. Training Tip Give your dog attention when YOU want Labradoodles are sociable creatures, and they love being with you and involved with the family. While you are training him, it is good to give your puppy lots of positive attention when he is good. But if he starts jumping up, nudging you constantly or barking for your attention, then ignore him. If you give in to his every demand, then he will begin to think that he is the boss and become more demanding. Wait a while and pat him when you want, and when he has stopped demanding your attention. Training Tip Be Consistent In terms of rules and training, treat your fluffy little Doodle pup as a grown-up. Make him abide by the rules you want him to live by as an adult. You may want to put your pup on a leash to hold his attention in the beginning. Stand facing each other and hold a treat a few inches above his head. Stroke and praise him for as long as he stays in the sitting position. Practice it in short sessions until he does it every time. After a while, he should do it just from command, without moving the treat over him. When he does, give him a treat anyway. If he jumps up on his back legs and paws while you are moving the treat, be patient, and start all over again. Another method is to put one hand on his chest and with your other hand, gently push down on his rear end until he is sitting. Give him a treat and praise, even though you have made him do it. For example, when you are putting his leash on, while you are preparing his meal, when he fetches the ball, or when he is demanding attention or getting over-excited. They do it all the time with their siblings in the litter. It is a game for them. But when they arrive at your home, they have to be taught that human body parts are not for biting. Try not to encourage play-biting. As a puppy grows and feels more confident in his surroundings, and he may become slightly more aggressive. His bites may hurt someone, especially if you have children or older people at home. Make sure to have a soft toy nearby every time you have a play session with your puppy. When he starts to chew your hand or feet, clench your fingers or toes to make it more difficult and distract him with the soft toy in your other hand. Keep the game interesting by moving the toy around or rolling it around in front of him. He may continue to chew you, but will eventually realize that the toy is far more exciting and livelier than your body parts. If he becomes over-excited or too aggressive with the toy and starts growling a lot, then stop playing with him, and walk away. If your pup is more persistent and tries to bite your legs as you walk away, thinking this is another fantastic game, stand still and ignore him. Your puppy may well jump back in amazement, surprised that he has hurt you. Train a Labradoodle Not to Jump The reason why a labradoodle jumps up onto humans is that they want to get your attention and say hello. As you are taller than him, he has to jump to get your attention. Sadly, it might not be enjoyable for your guests or other people having an unknown dog jumping on them. As a dog owner, you must stop your dog from bothering other people. You can try the below techniques to train your labradoodle not to jump: When your dog starts jumping, follow training tip 9. Do not look into his eyes and stand straight up with your arms crossed. When his paws touch the ground, pat him. Repeat the exercise until he stops jumping. If your dog is jumping on a guest, then ask your guest to turn around and ignore him. Labradoodle Crate Training Crate training is the process of teaching your pup how to behave and enjoy spending time in a crate. Along with housetraining, this is one of the first things you should do when you get a new puppy. The idea behind crate training is that dogs like to have their particular spot. This place is a Safe Haven where only they can go. It teaches them to hold it until they are let outside to potty. Crates are not for every Labradoodle, and you should NEVER use them to imprison the dog while you are out of the house all day. Doodles are not like hamsters or pet mice, which can adapt to life in a cage. But, used correctly, a crate can help to: Housetrain your dog Keep your dog safe when traveling Create a doggy bedroom or place where your Labradoodle feels safe. If you use a crate, then remember that it is NOT a prison to restrain the dog. It should only be used humanely, and time should be spent to make the puppy feel like the crate is his safe little haven. Place the crate in the corner of a room, away from cold draughts or too much heat. Labradoodles like to be near their pack so, leave him where he can hear you. Crate Training Here are some techniques that you can follow to make your puppy to accept a crate and then to want to spend time in there. He might not be very happy about going in at first, but he will be a lot easier to crate train than an adult dog Drop a few tasty treats around and then inside the crate. Keep the door open. Do not close the crate door yet. Place a chew or treat inside the crate and close the door while your pup is outside the crate. He will be desperate to get in. Open the door to let him in and praises him. Fasten a long-lasting chew inside the crate and leave the door open. Let your puppy go inside and spend some time eating the chew. After a while, close the crate door and feed him some treats through the mesh. At first, do it for a few seconds at a time, then gradually increase the time. If you do it too fast, he will become distressed. Slowly build up the amount of time he is in the crate. For the first few days, stay in the room, then gradually leave the room for a short time, first one minute, then three, then 10, 30 minutes, and so on. The next points are very important to make the crate training successful: Do not let the dog immediately out of the crate while he is barking, or he will think that barking is the key to opening the door to the crate. Wait until the barking or whining has stopped for at least 10 seconds before letting him out. If you do decide to use a crate, remember that a dog is NOT a caged animal. Use the crate for limited periods and only if your dog is comfortable in there. NEVER force a dog to go in and then lock him in for hours on end. From about the age of three weeks, a puppy will leave his sleeping area to go to the toilet. Therefore, you need to teach him that it is unacceptable to make a mess anywhere inside the home. It depends on how quickly your puppy learns and how persistent and patient you are. Follow these steps to speed up the potty-training process: Constant supervision is essential for the first few weeks if you want to house train your puppy quickly. This is why it is necessary to book the week off work when you bring a new puppy home. Making sure you are there to take him outside regularly. If nobody is there, he will learn to urinate or poop inside the house. Take your puppy outside to the same place every time. Dogs naturally develop a preference for going in the same spot or on the same surface -often grass. Take him to the same patch every time, so he learns this is his toilet — preferably an area in a far corner of your garden or yard. No pressure — be patient. You must allow your Doodle pup to wander around and have a good sniff before he does his duties. Stay around a short distance away instead of leaving him. Sadly, puppies are not known for their powers of concentration. They may become easily distracted, and it may take a while for them to select that perfect spot to wee pee on! Share the responsibility. Just make sure you stick to the same routines and patch of ground. Take your pup outside at the following times: As soon as he wakes — every time Shortly after each feed. The Labradoodle is a gorgeous cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, and the Goldendoodle is an adorable mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Characteristics and traits can vary significantly because these pups are a hybrid breed, but they are usually incredibly people-focused, laid back, and playful, making Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training an enjoyable moment. Doodles make awesome pets, especially if their owners fully comprehend the importance of training from a young age. The type of adult dog breed you end up with depends a little bit on their personality and a lot on how you take care of them. Before you begin Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training, it helps to decide exactly what kind of dog you want to have. Do Plenty of Research It is vital that you have an understanding of canine learning theory because dogs learn very differently from people. A puppy does whatever it can to get what it desires the most at that moment. There are plenty of online resources that can teach you about methods to get the best out of your training. It may be helpful to consult a puppy training professional or spend some time at doggy school to get a headstart and pick up tips from experts. Your pup is a blank slate — with your guidance, they can develop the traits and learn the behaviors that you value the most. Labradoodle and Goldendoodle puppies are curious and they love exploring their new home as they make it their own. Getting it right during the early stages sets a precedent for the rest of their life. Spending as much time as you can with them helps build the foundation for a happy, confident and well-behaved dog. Form a Bond and Gain Trust With Your Doodle Before you do anything, you will need to develop a strong bond with your new pal to make sure they trust you. Try to keep your own energy as calm as possible — they bounce off you. While it may be tempting to get excited by their cuteness and mirror their enthusiasm, this makes it more difficult for them to listen to you and regulate their own behavior. Teach your furry friend what to expect from the moment they get into the home to stop them from getting confused. Use Positive Reinforcement Intimidation or fear tactics are never the best way to build a loving and secure bond between you and your fur baby. To make the most of this method, reward your pooch for good behavior and ignore bad behavior. Treats, verbal praise, and clicker training reward them for a job well done. This also helps them to make positive associations with you and training time. Everyone has their own list of priorities and yours will depend on factors such as whether you have children or other pets. Potty training is a straightforward, formulaic process that your new puppy will adapt to. A consistent routine is the key to getting them toilet trained as efficiently and effectively as possible. Let them outside at the same time each day, and take them to the same spot. In the early days, it may be difficult for them to make it all the way through the night, so try to make provisions for this stage. Select a word for them to associate with potty training and repeat it over and over whenever you take them to the toilet. Every time they do their business outside, give them lots of cuddles and praise, treat them and play one of their favorite games. There will be setbacks — getting it right takes time! If they mess in the wrong place, take them outside to their toileting spot and give them the chance to relieve themselves. We cannot emphasize the importance of praising them when they get it right enough! Crate Training Not everyone opts to crate train their puppy, but it can be useful for the earliest stages of Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training. The crate gives them a safe place they can call their own. Be sure to make the time they spend in the crate a positive experience, and never leave them in there for more hours than their age in months plus one hour. For example, a three-month-old puppy can be kept in their crate for no more than four hours. Socialization Dogs are social animals, and Goldendoodles and Labradoodles, in particular, are happiest when they spend time pleasing people and playing. However, building confidence takes effort and guidance from their pet parent. If you want to ensure they grow up to have a balanced personality, you need to expose them to plenty of dogs, people and different situations. Take them out and about as much as possible to help them become accustomed to a range of noises, sights and sounds. Bring them to a local dog park to get them used to spending time around other dogs. Manners Your adorable little pup has the potential to develop a host of bad habits, but these behaviors can be nipped in the bud. Temperament and Dealing with Small Children There are several steps to take while getting your canine cutie used to being a member of a family with children. Both pup and child will need to have clear boundaries mapped out for them so they can build mutual trust and be kind to each other. Let the child practice with a toy before they pick up or cuddle the pup. Ensure the child sits down when they play with the dog; this helps to prevent the pup from getting overexcited. Teach the child to do small tasks to help care for the dog, such as filling the bowl or helping with grooming. Knowing what to expect according to the time of day helps them to settle and feel reassured. Always wake them up at the same time, feed and walk them around the same time and do training exercises at a set time. Patience Is Everything! The best piece of advice for Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training is to have patience. Spend lots of time bonding and playing with your pooch so you can make training something fun that you both enjoy. Over 6 Months Old 8 week old Labradoodle Puppy Training At 8 weeks old your puppy has only just arrived home, so your main focus will be on helping them to settle in, bonding and starting that all important potty training process. Potty Training Your brand new puppy will need to have the opportunity to pee as much as every twenty minutes for the first few days. They will also need to pee or poop after every meal, and every big drink. Socialization Have four different sets of visitors to the house, and go to at least four busy places with the puppy in your arms. Sweet Goodbyes Puppies find it hard to be left alone, so we like to sweeten up those goodbyes with treats! Every time you need to briefly leave the room, drop a handful of kibble behind you to make it seem like a good thing for your pup. Follow me Puppies are naturally inclined to follow you at 8 weeks old, and you want to encourage that instinct. When outdoors in the backyard change direction lots, and give lots of treats and cuddles in exchange for them coming after you. Recall Blow your recall whistle we use five short pips when your puppy is running full pelt towards you. They will have started to understand that outdoors is the place to pee, and have gained a tiny bit of bladder control. But they will still need a lot of help! Socialization should still be in full swing this week, and your increasingly confident puppy will need help remembering to keep her teeth to herself. Potty Training Your puppy will still need lots of opportunity to pee outdoors in order to reduce accidents. Socialization Meeting people is really important this week. Take your puppy to four new places, and have four sets of visitors. Carry them while you are outdoors. Rewarding Eye Contact Whenever your puppy looks up at your face, pop a treat in between her paws or into her mouth. This will start to encourage her to look up at you more often, in the hopes of something scrummy. We close our treat laden palm when the puppy approaches, open it again as they back oiff and feed the treats to them with the other hand. This helps them to start learning that staying calm and keeping a little distance will get you treats quicker than biting and snatching at them. This week you might start to see those teeth come into action. Remember to remove attention from the puppy when they bite hard on your skin. At just under 3 months old your puppy will have lots of confidence, and be accidentally getting themselves into all sorts of jams unless you are really careful. The window for socialization is closing soon, so make the most of those last couple of weeks to build up their knowledge of people and the world around them. Potty Training At 10 to 12 weeks your puppy will be able to hold its bladder for maybe as long as two and a half hours during the day. If you get an accident in the house, reduce that time down again. And make a note of when your puppy pees so as not to lose track. Over these weeks try to go to two new busy places and two new sets of visitors each week. Rewarding calm behavior Now is the time to help your dog learn to relax. Every time you catch your Labradoodle puppy relaxing, pop a treat between their paws. This will encourage her to chill out even more! Introduce off leash heel position You can start to teach your dog to walk nicely next to you at this point. We begin this process by reinforcing them for standing next to you with the clicker and treats. Recall To work on your recall, whistle your puppy for running towards you as you run away. Give them lots of treats as a reward when they arrive. You can also whistle when giving meals to build up strong positive associations with this cue. Bite inhibition Labradoodle puppy biting can really ramp up at this age. Remember to remove attention when your puppy bites hard. Either standing up, or even leaving the room or popping them in their crate or playpen temporarily while they calm down. This is your final chance for socialization, and it needs to be carried out in a more relaxed way. But at least you can pop your pup on the ground now! Recall Whistle your puppy for running towards you as you walk away, rewarding them with lots of treats when they arrive. Stand with your puppy on the leash, and carry them between locations so as not to upset future heelwork progress. Introduce sit We introduce the sit at this stage, but in a very relaxed informal way. We do so indoors only, when there are no distractions. This is begun without a cue or command, by capturing the position. Potty training should be pretty established. Your goal is to encourage your dog to focus on you and to become a well mannered member of the family. Your puppy should still be given the chance to pee at least every two to three hours. As well as after meals! Changing directions Puppies are more confident at this age, so you need to keep them keen to stay near you. When outdoors in the backyard or at the dog park, keep changing direction regularly. Be unpredictable, and when they follow you back it up with lots of fuss and treats. Off leash heelwork Off leash heelwork training moves from establishing the position to taking a few steps forwards at this stage. Make sure you use lots of praise, and only practice in a familiar, boring area. And one with no distractions! Go slowly, and make sure your pup stays focussed on you. Introduce down We also introduce the down position at this age. This is done without a cue like the sit was the previous month, by capturing the position. Advancing the sit The sit advances further at this stage. Once that is well established, you can begin to very slightly increase duration and distance one by one. Adding distance, duration or distractions to things they already know. Where you get your dog used to doing as you ask them, in different locations or with distractions. Or for longer! Adding distance, duration or distractions We do this step by step, only increasing one thing at a time. So if you want your dog to sit for longer, you will do it somewhere they already happily sit and with no one else around. And thinking of adding a distraction like another dog? Then do it somewhere they are familiar with, and with that dog a long way away to begin with. On leash heelwork We love teaching heelwork off leash. It helps your dog to walk nicely next to you, without ever having the opportunity to pull. A dog that has never wandered ahead is less likely to try to do so even with a leash. Training Methods I cannot recommend positive reinforcement training enough. Positive reinforcement involves rewarding your dog when they do something that you want them to, by giving them something they like. Food is usually the best thing to motivate your dog with, but toys work well for some dogs too. When you use positive methods you can start training your puppy from the very first day they arrive in your home. And logical to know how far you expect a puppy to be able to have come at different developmental stages. Labradoodles are clever and focussed, but they also have a fairly high prey drive. Training is a marathon, not a sprint, and every dog takes their own time. Just remember to only move on to more challenging training situations for them when they have totally mastered the stage before. Related Articles. If you would like one of these wonderful dogs for your family, please take the time to fill out our owner application. Application Form Care and Training Trainers agree that most pet problems which dog owners experience have to do with the training they receive and the excess freedom they are given in the home. Your Labradoodle puppy is a sweet, intuitive, intelligent dog and capable of being a pleasing companion. Labradoodles enjoy training, playtime, and direction. If you take the time to establish your loving authority early on, you will reap the benefits for years to come. Train your pup to be a good canine citizen and a welcome addition to your neighbourhood. I have listed common mistakes which owners make, and a way for you to prevent those hardships. Click on the links below to read the tip, click on the link again to close them. Mistake 1: Not being puppy-educated. Attend a puppy kindergarten class if possible, and read several training books before your new pup arrives. Do role-playing with your children on sit, stay, and come commands, with you being the puppy and your child being the trainer. You will need to teach your children firmness in voice commands. Mistake 2: Idealistic expectations. Dogs are expensive. Dogs are trouble. Dogs are frustrating. Dogs are noisy. Dogs are messy. Be prepared for the bumps in the road a chewed shoe , and the valleys an emergency trip to the vet when an army man gets swallowed. You will be a much happier owner if you have realistic expectations. Mistake 3: Lack of communication with children or adult owners. What are your expectations for your children? Do you want your new pup to teach them responsibility? Be reasonable about how you expect your children to fit into the life of your new pet. A good way to begin your puppy adventure is with a contract between you and your children which states the needs of the puppy with clear plans for who will meet these needs. An example follows: By having a contract in advance, if your child balks at taking your dog on a walk, you may remind them of the agreement they signed. Mistake 4: Not being prepared to sacrifice. My husband and I often laugh about our experience bringing home our first child. We had spent weeks attending classes and breathing, reading books and breathing, visiting delivery rooms and more breathing. Then the delivery occurred. Days later, we brought home this squirmy, screeching, sleepless boy with no idea what to do with him. Be prepared for the worst, and then reality will be a cupcake. Exercise your pup well before your bedtime. Do not offer water within a few hours of your bedtime. At bedtime, put your puppy in the crate with his comfort toys which the breeder sent along with him. Expect whining for a good long bit, but do not cave in and let your puppy sleep with you. Coo and comfort your new pup; pet him through the crate. You have the wisdom and you are in charge. You can train your pup to sleep through the night. Your goal is the get the little sweetheart through the night with only two potty outings, perhaps around AM and AM, but never wake a sleeping puppy — let him wake you. During potty outings, do not cuddle or comfort your pup, although you will always carry your pup to the door in the beginning weeks of housebreaking, rather than have him walk. While on this nighttime potty outing, communicate to him that this is strictly business. Take him to his designated potty place and set him down. Then go back to bed, settling him into his crate. This should only last a few nights, and he will soon surprise you by stretching a few more hours between potty outings. Always check his crate with your hand for a mistake. There is no need to scold mistakes at this stage. Simply remove his bedding and replace with dry bedding. Then, after he becomes fond of his crate in a few days, you may return to your bed. He will feel secure, and you will feel your sacrifice has been worthwhile. Mistake 5: Expecting housebreaking too soon. Many authors and even some trainers tout methods of housebreaking guaranteeing results in eight weeks. Most trainers would say that this is not a reasonable for all puppies. While some puppies may possibly be housebroken at that age, it is rare. For a puppy to be reliably housebroken, it must first meet a physiological developmental milestone in control. While most puppies will be housebroken before that, it is wise to have reasonable expectations. Mistake 6: Too much freedom too soon. Your puppy will naturally want to keep his crate clean, provided it is only small enough for him to turn around in. Instead, begin immediately with crate training, which is the most humane and natural living quarters for your pup. By nature he wants a safe den to cuddle in remember his wolf ancestry. Your pup will be very sleepy in the beginning weeks, so take advantage of this. After each potty outing will be your play time, cuddle time, and training time. Afterwards, you will return him to his crate for a nap. The playtime may be done in a small area 6-foot by 6-foot which you designate as his romper room. This area, as well as the crate, should be in a part of the home the family gathers in, such as the kitchen. A flexible gate system is a terrific option. This system will keep your pup safe from the myriad of choking hazards throughout your home. The flexible gate and crate combination prevents those unwanted accidents — in short, it will keep your stress level low. My mistake with this system was in allowing my pups freedom beyond the gate before they were tried and true. Be quite sure your pup is housebroken reliably before extending his boundaries. When you do choose to extend the boundaries beyond the pen, do it gradually, adding a room at a time. Wait several weeks or a month of no accidents before you expand boundaries again. It is wise to have agreement early on as to which rooms will eventually be opened to your pet and which will not. If you plan for your puppy to never enter the study, for example, then make that known ahead of time. Most trainers suggest that your trained dog should sleep on a dog bed beside your bed, but not on the bed. This prevents them from thinking that they are on your level of authority in the pack of your family. We routinely break this rule. Do as the trainers say, not as we do. Praise him cheerfully. This takes commitment, and your pup should only be out of the pen when you are willing to pay attention and do training. Mistake 7: Using too many words. Your Labradoodle will be trained faster if everyone in your home uses the same terminology during training. Mistake 8: Grazing and over-treating. We hope you will feed your Labradoodle with excellent health as your goal. At eight weeks, your puppy will need to eat three times a day on a regular schedule. The last feeding should be before PM. No treats or water after dinner is best to help your dog achieve housebreaking. Feedings should be in the crate. Take your puppy out for potty immediately after a meal. After the meal has been offered for fifteen minutes, the food is removed. Keep track of how much your pup eats during the first months, as your vet may find this helpful. The reason that continual feeding or grazing is not best is twofold: It solidifies your role as the alpha, provider of the meal, and it also prevents your dog from becoming obese. Obesity in dogs is never healthy and may be an environmental factor contributing toward hip dysplasia. Treats should be given only for performing a command. It is expensive and does not provide the pure nutrients your growing pup requires. Instead of junk treats, fill your treat jar with a premium-quality dry dog food which you do not currently use. For example, if you currently use Innova chicken, try a salmon-based food for treats. On the subject of food, not all dog food is equal. Most grocery store brands of kibble contain a high percentage of fillers. The fillers themselves may have been in contact with pesticides or other chemicals. Never will you see a particular cut of beef listed, which means your dog food choice could be filled with parts you and I do not want to discuss. There are commercial dog foods available which use human-grade standards, rather than animal standards. Ask in a premium pet store about human standards. You will pay much more for human-standard food, but your dog will eat considerably less, since it is packed with the nutrients his body craves. Most dog enthusiasts believe that chicken- or fish-based foods are digested more easily. Fish oils have been known to be beneficial to prevent scratching in dogs who experience dry skin due to environment, weather or allergies. Potty Training tips from Perfect Paws. Confinement to a small area such as a bathroom or an enclosed exercise pen in combination with confinement to a crate works best. This method is the most effective and flexible. When and how to use confinement is described in detail below. Read more about potty training from Perfect Paws. Puppy Patch Labradoodles Email: click to email About our Puppies Our Australian Labradoodles are allergy and asthma friendly with low to non-shedding coats. A cross between a labrador and a poodle and multi-generational, our puppies are thoroughly socialized. Please browse our site to see the latest puppy litters and our breeder policies. Recent News.