german shepherds puppies for adoption

The breed is named after a region in Europe where the GSDs were originally bred source. Although the name Alsation Dog is rarely heard, it is more popular in Europe and the United Kingdom vs. Regardless of their name, they are one of the most popular dog breeds in both America and Great Britain. Female vs. Male Temperament Female German Shepherds tend to have a gently, friendly disposition. Generally, female GSDs are sweeter and friendlier companions to have around a family. They tend to have a gentle disposition compared to male GSDs. Male GSDs are more territorial in nature. They mark their territory by urination and this can annoy some owners. They are also more likely to have stronger personalities and a proud sense of character. Female German Shepherd dogs are gentle when compared to males. They are more gentle and friendlier towards their family. The female GSD tends to have a higher tolerance for strangers and other people, in general. They can, however, turn more protective when they have a litter of their puppies around. This breed is known to stick closely to their person, which can turn into possessiveness if not corrected early. Having different family members use positive training and taking turns working with your dog can help prevent this issue. Males are considered more aggressive and protective. Both males and females are known to bark to alert their family of people or other dogs in their yards or along the street. Some owners find this makes them an excellent watchdog, but other people, like your neighbors, might not appreciate the barking. Males tend to become more dominant and aggressive, which can increase their protectiveness for their family. They are better suited for protection roles and families without children. But a female German Shepherd will still bark and alert you of strangers and intruders on the property. A prominent dog psychology researcher even named the German Shepherd as the second breed most likely dog to bark as a watchdog source. So, this can be seen as a more protective feature of male German Shepherds. Both sexes have an intimidating bark and are athletic, large dogs — a protective feature that usually scares outsiders. Male vs. Female Size Comparison While there are exceptions to every rule, the male German Shepherd is generally larger than the female German Shepherd. Males also tend to have larger muscles, while females tend to have sleeker muscles. Both males and females should have an athletic form and should not be overweight. A male has a height of 24 to 26 inches at the withers shoulder area , while females are about 22 to 24 inches tall at the withers. The male can weigh up to 95 pounds, while the female typically is lower — anywhere from 75 to 85 pounds. Males may exhibit more protectiveness due to their muscular build and larger size. Female German Shepherds should be considered for families with kids. Research shows that males German Shepherds are more aggressive than female German Shepherds. This means that a family should consider choosing a female for a companion over a male. Males tend to perform better for roles in protection and guarding and could do well in a home without children and the proper training. And both males and females are powerful dogs with lots of energy… including jumping. These traits could make them harder to handle around small kids or children. Generally, female GSDs interact better with children due to their maternal, less dominant nature. And male GSDs tend to be larger, more muscular, and may become too powerful for smaller children. Their large personalities and behavior may push around the kids and they are more aggressive in nature. Females are a better match for a family with children. Children and Training The German Shepherd enjoys the company of children when trained. Even children can learn to control this breed with the right guidance from their parents. While some parents of young children are afraid of choosing the GSD breed due to their size, the main concern comes from properly training the dog and the children to live together. Early training of both parties has the greatest chance of a strong bond between the pair. And parents should not only train the dog themselves but show the children how to train their German Shepherd. Younger children might see their playfulness, such as ear tugging or tail pulling, as cute or funny. Kids must learn to respect the breed, and parents must show their children how to do this in a positive manner. German Shepherds may seem reserved or aloof at first. But, they have a funny sweet side when comfortable with their family and are truly lifelong companions. Both sexes of the breed can become possessive, but males tend to show this behavior more easily. Having different family members train your dog can cut down on overall possessiveness. One-Person Connection Both male and female dogs prefer to have company with their people. They may develop anxiety when left alone or not given the proper attention for long periods of time. Their personality can become demanding for attention, so when you choose a German Shepherd, know they want your undivided attention and will suffer without it. Male German Shepherds tend to pick one person with whom they bond the strongest. This can lead to possessiveness or overprotection of this individual. German Shepherds are one of the smartest dog breeds to own. They are highly intelligent and have a natural curiosity to learn new commands and behaviors. German Shepherds are ready for you to train them daily and are easier to train compared to many other dog breeds. Males can also become more dominant, especially as they mature, and may become difficult for you to train. While females tend to want to appease their owners more readily and are better suited to a new owner. Training a German Shepherd The most important and best way to train a German Shepherd is through positive training, which engates their minds and bodies. Choose a positive training program that you find fun and will participate in almost daily. For the best results use these tips: Start training as a young puppy to develop the good habits you want. Keep the training sessions short, especially for puppies. Use a high-value reward that is also healthy — choose from this list of GSD treats: The Healthiest Treats for a German Shepherd Enroll in a training program that uses their mental ability to increase your bond With plenty of training the right way, you may find your German Shepherd, both male and female, excels at sports, such as agility and rally obedience. And, this breed is a true tracker with their excellent scenting abilities. Certain traits make male German Shepherds better as police and military working dogs. Female German Shepherds are used in police and military service, but they are generally outnumbered by male German Shepherds. This is in part to selective breeding for certain traits, such as: Aggressiveness Size and build Athletic ability As working dog breeders tend to choose these traits over others they may choose male dogs that fit this profile. So, more male GSDs wind up in police and military dog units. As mentioned previously, males dogs also make better working dogs in the protection service due to not only their larger size, but their protection and aggression drive. These drives are highly sought after in the police fields for K-9 units. Male German Shepherds are seen as more intimidating and male handlers may even want to choose a male working partner over a female as male dogs are seen as more tough and rugged. Both male and female GSDs have a tough exterior that makes them suitable for military and police work. When a female goes into heat she is more distracted and less likely to listen to commands and become more moody. Other male dogs would also make it impossible to have a female GSD around unless she was spayed. Female German Shepherds are in heat generally twice a year, or about every 6 months. This schedule also coincides with the blowing of their coat. She will generally be in heat for about 21 days, though this can differ from dog to dog. There is some bleeding that is noticeable, so many owners prefer to keep their female GSD secure in an easy to clean room with hard floors, away from the male dogs. A female GSD can begin her heat cycle as young as 6 months old. This may vary anywhere between 6 months to 1 year, depending on their individual genetics. On average, she will come into her heat cycle every 6 months, though this could be as early as every 4 months for some females. Being in estrus, or in season in heat can make a female dog moody and temporarily change its behavior and personality. This is normal, but owners should be aware of this difference in their female dogs. Owners must secure and contain their females to avoid any unnecessary mating and unwanted litters. All males within a short and long distance can smell a female in heat, so due caution must be taken. Health Concerns This breed is susceptible to a number of health concerns that you should consider before choosing a German Shepherd. Only adopt or choose your dog from a respectable breeder that has completed the necessary testing for their health. Some issues the German Shepherd is susceptible to include: Hip Dysplasia. Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. History Where are German Shepherd Dogs from? Perhaps never in the history of any breed has such concerted effort been put into improving a dog, mostly due to the formation in of the Verein fur Deutsche Scharferhunde SV, an organization in Germany devoted to overseeing the breeding of the German Shepherd. Breeders sought to develop not only a herding dog but also one that could excel at jobs requiring courage, athleticism, and intelligence. During World War I, they were the obvious choice for a war sentry. The Wolfdog was later dropped as it caused many people to fear the dogs. How big do German Shepherd Dogs get? The double-coat, with a thick undercoat that sheds twice annually, loses hair continuously but can be maintained with regular brushing one or two times weekly. What are the German Shepherd Dog colors? Black, tan, solid black and solid sable. How long do German Shepherd Dogs live? Lifespan: 10—12 years What are some German Shepherd Dogs facts and information? The German Shepherd held the number one spot in American popularity for many years. Although presently it has dropped from the top spot, the German Shepherd remains as one of the most versatile dogs ever created, serving as a police dog, war dog, guide dog, search-and-rescue dog, narcotics- or explosives-detecting dog, show dog, pet—and even shepherd. Related Content. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. Sound in mind and body, strong, functional, intelligent, trainable, courageous, and resilient. These are the natural qualities that can only be realized through the incredible genetics of purebred German Shepherds. We only import the best-of-the-best. Certified champions straight from Germany! Due to his home being burglarized in , Wayne decided to train dogs in tracking, obedience, and protection. His untrained Staffordshire Bullterrier was unable to protect his home and he then decided to obtain a Rottweiler for protection. Wayne continued to train Rottweilers up until the early 90s where he purchased his first German Shepherd. He was raised along side German Shepherds which had a huge impact toward his love and respect for the breed. At Kraftwerk K9, we honor the history of the German Shepherd. We here at Kraftwerk K9 care for and teach these world-class dogs to live up to their full potential. Our ethical breeding facility sits on 25 gorgeous acres of Washington soil and is available for touring before purchase. Take a look at our facility Learn more about our certified German Shepherds by calling today at or visiting our Available Dog page!

Medium Bernedoodle Trainability Both the Poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog are intelligent and eager to satisfy their human companions, so naturally, the Bernedoodle will be too. For those educating themselves, training can be a piece of cake. In simpler terms, these are happy, highly intelligent dogs that are eager to please and will usually adopt skills quickly. On the other hand, many say Bernedoodles can be stubborn. Does this change anything? The same psychological principles apply to all dogs. In the end, dog training is almost always more about the handler learning the correct ways to train dogs in his or her care. Bernedoodles are just as capable of learning perhaps more as any other dog. Socialise your Bernedoodle. Berners are widely known for their goofy, playful attitudes especially with children. However, unfortunate dogs that are never socialized are powerful enough to cause great bodily harm to those they deem as threats. Like many other giant breeds, Bernedoodles will usually be happy with moderate exercise. You could probably get away with two relatively quick walks daily. They do need mental stimulation though. These dogs are smart. Consider the original breed qualities. Of course every dog, just like every human, is different. Leadership Sure, the novice would-be dog owner might see one of these adorable, playful dogs. They might hear about all of these amazing qualities, like high intelligence, cuddly affection, or affinity for human family members. Does this mean they are great for first-time dog owners? Bernedoodles also need a handler who understands early canine socialization, preferably one who has done this multiple times with other dogs. Do Bernedoodles Need Haircuts? Do Bernedoodles Shed? Bernedoodles are still half Bernese and can shed quite a lot. There are few guarantees with mixed breed pups. Thanks to their Poodle genetics, Bernedoodles will only have a single undercoat that will shed depending on how much of those genetics came from the Poodle parent. In the end, all dogs will give off dander; there is no eliminating that completely. Compare the two breeds below. It has a bright natural sheen. Extremely curly or extremely dull-looking coats are undesirable. Your pet will probably shed, depending on how much Bernedoodle DNA was inherited, but not as much as the parent breed himself. Yes or No to Haircuts? This thick coat also affords protection from harmful UV rays and guards against insect bites. They can have one single undercoat. On the other hand, Bernedoodles will usually only have a single undercoat, thanks to their Poodle genetics. The coat type will often depend on the litter generation since breeders are able to better select for desired traits the further they go. The later the generation i. How Big Do Bernedoodles Get? Imagine mixing a medium-large breed lbs. The size of your puppies will fall between those limits, but the end result will probably depend on what percentage of either dog went into the mixture. The Standard Bernedoodle will usually weigh lbs kg with an average height of inches cm. This is nothing more than an average, and your Bernedoodle could end up weighing in at over a hundred pounds or less if you have a slender Poodle. Cost — Why are Bernedoodles so Expensive? Your first answer is very simple. People like rare and large dogs, and will pay more for them. Tri-color coats are in the highest demand. Continuous cross-breeding of existing crosses will increase likelihood of medical problems, so breeding is a slower process. Your price will increase with breeder reputation. In this case, smaller Bernedoodles tend to be more difficult often bred by using artificial insemination to breed and will cost more. The table here assumes your Bernedoodle is standard. 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 Bernedoodle Overview The Bernedoodle is a companion dog, through and through. The breed inherits the intelligence of its Poodle parents and the charming, goofy, happy-go-lucky temperament of the Bernese Mountain Dog. Sometimes they get more Poodle traits, and other times they more closely resemble the Bernese. That said, fans of Bernedoodles adore their friendliness, playfulness, intelligence, and affection. They also tend to be more hypoallergenic, which is a blessing for allergy sufferers. In addition to their personalities, Bernedoodles can differ in appearance. Their coats can be curly and wavy or straight and come in a variety of colors. They come in three sizes; tiny, miniature, and standard. These sizes are determined by the size of the Poodle parent, which can be toy, mini, or standard. Bernedoodles are fairly adaptable and go with the flow. Smaller sized Bernedoodles make better apartment pets than Standard Bernedoodles, who do best with a yard to burn off energy. This breed has moderate exercise needs that are usually met with at least one long daily walk. Bernedoodle Highlights Gentle and loving: Bernedoodles are known for their gentle and loving personalities. They are good with children and other pets. Intelligent and trainable: Bernedoodles are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. They can learn basic commands quickly and can be trained to perform more complex tasks. Hypoallergenic: Bernedoodles are considered to be hypoallergenic, which means they are less likely to shed and cause allergies in people. Active but adaptable: Bernedoodles are active dogs that need a moderate amount of exercise. However, they are also adaptable and can do well in apartments or homes with small yards. Loyal and devoted: Bernedoodles are loyal and devoted dogs that make great companions. They are always happy to see their owners and love to cuddle. If you are looking for a loving, intelligent, and hypoallergenic dog, the Bernedoodle may be the right breed for you. Here are some additional details about the Bernedoodle breed: Size: Bernedoodles are medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 45 and 90 pounds. Lifespan: Bernedoodles have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. Coat: Bernedoodles have a wavy or curly coat that can be either single- or double-coated. Colors: Bernedoodles can be a variety of colors, including black, brown, white, and cream. Bernedoodles are a relatively new breed, so there is still some debate about their exact origins. However, it is believed that they were first bred in the United States in the early s. The goal was to create a dog that was hypoallergenic and had the best qualities of both the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Poodle. Bernedoodles are becoming increasingly popular dogs. They are a good choice for families with children and other pets. They are also a good choice for people with allergies. If you are thinking about getting a Bernedoodle, be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder. Bernedoodle History The Bernedoodle is a relatively new breed. While this is considered a designer breed, they do appear in shelters, and rescue groups that focus on Poodles and Bernese Mountain Dogs will sometimes work with mixes of those breeds. There is no reason that you have to rely on a breeder for a Bernedoodle, and you should always adopt before shopping. Bernedoodle Size There are three sizes of Bernedoodle: tiny, miniature, and standard. These result from the size of the Poodle parent, which can be toy, mini, or standard size. The Tiny Bernedoodle stands at 12 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder, and weighs about 10 to 24 pounds. The Miniature Bernedoodle stands at 18 to 22 inches tall and weighs 25 to 49 pounds. The Standard Bernedoodle stands at 23 to 29 inches and weigh 70 to 90 pounds. Males are generally larger than females. Bernedoodle Personality Bernedoodles seem to get many of the best personality traits from the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle breeds. Exactly which traits they inherit from their parents can differ a bit, though, and individual personalities of dogs within the breed vary. Bernedoodles tend to be highly intelligent, hardworking when necessary, loyal, and just a bit goofy. They are good with children and other dogs, provided they have been well socialized. Once they begin training, their intelligence helps them pick up commands more easily than other dogs. Bernedoodles can have high energy levels and crave attention and at least moderate exercise. They do best in homes where they are not left alone for long periods of time. Tiny and Miniature Bernedoodles do better with apartment and city life than Standard Bernedoodles. Generally, they want nothing more than to be with their humans and are just as ready to go outside and play with them as they are to join them on the couch for cuddles. Bernedoodle Health Bernedoodles are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some health problems, including: Hip dysplasia : This is a condition in which the hip joint does not fit together properly, causing pain and lameness. Elbow dysplasia : This is a similar condition that affects the elbow joint. Bloat: This is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach twists, cutting off blood flow. Progressive retinal atrophy PRA : This is a degenerative eye disease that can lead to blindness. Hereditary cataracts : These are cloudy areas in the lens of the eye that can cause vision problems. Demodex mange : This is a skin condition caused by mites. Inflammatory bowel disease IBD : This is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. Hypothyroidism : This is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. It is important to take your Bernedoodle to the vet for regular checkups to monitor their health and catch any potential problems early. You should also be aware of the signs and symptoms of these health problems so that you can seek treatment promptly if necessary. Here are some tips for keeping your Bernedoodle healthy: Feed them a healthy diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level. Make sure they get plenty of exercise. Keep them at a healthy weight. Brush their teeth regularly. Take them to the vet for regular checkups. By following these tips, you can help your Bernedoodle live a long and healthy life. Bernedoodle Care Tiny and Miniature Bernedoodles are more suited to apartment life, while Standard Bernedoodles do better with a nice yard to run around. They love being around their humans, so the less time they spend alone, the better. Like Poodles, Bernedoodles are quite intelligent, which means they can learn bad habits just as easily as good ones. It is important to keep up with training. Early socialization and exposure to other dogs and humans is always a good idea and will help keep them well-behaved when meeting new people or pets. Bernedoodle Feeding The appropriate amount to feed a Bernedoodle depends on their size, age, and activity level, which means it is highly individualized. You should ask your veterinarian for dietary recommendations that suit your particular dog. Sometimes Bernedoodles can have straighter coats, which shed more and are less hypoallergenic. The thickness of their coat helps this breed thrive in cool temperatures while providing them a fair amount of protection from the heat of summer months, as well. The color of Bernedoodle coats have quite a range. Some are pure black, others are black and white, and others are black and brown. Sometimes Bernedoodles are tri-colored with patches of black, white, and brown. They may even have other colors, as well. The most popular coat colors and markings for people seeking a Bernedoodle tend to resemble the tri-colored Bernese Mountain Dog. Because they shed less, they need to be brushed more often to prevent their coat from getting matted. Their coat must also be trimmed every few months, depending on how quickly it grows. Bernedoodle Children And Other Pets Bernedoodles are excellent for families with children, though it is always important to make sure children are instructed on how to properly treat animals, especially with Tiny and Miniature Bernedoodles that may be injured more easily. This breed is affectionate and loves to play, and they absolutely adore spending time with their families. Bernedoodles usually do well with other dogs, but it is important to begin socialization at an early age and keep up with it to make sure they are comfortable around new animals. Bernedoodle Rescue Groups Please search your local area for Bernedoodle up for adoption. Bernedoodle Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues More Info For You. They were bred solely for companionship, so they love attention and lots of cuddles from their families. Bernedoodles are just as happy curling up on the couch as they are hiking a trail alongside their humans. They're playful and active dogs who can be willful as puppies but are highly trainable thanks to their big brains. Appearance Though Bernese mountain dogs have a black, tan, and white uniform, poodles can have a much wider range of coat colors. Because of this, Bernedoodles can vary in color. While they're typically tricolor like their mountain dog mom or dad, they can also be pure black, black and white, or a random mix. Their fur can also be curly like their poodle parent or straighter like a Bernese mountain dog. As a general rule, the straighter the coat, the more your Bernedoodle will shed. In both cases, the thickness of a Bernedoodle mane makes this breed suitable for colder temperatures. A curly Bernedoodle coat is typically sought-after because it's considered hypoallergenic. While no dog is percent allergen-friendly, this breed's coat can be a good option for those who tend to sneeze, sniffle, or itch around dogs. Bernedoodle breeders typically offer a tiny, miniature, and standard size, which allows for flexibility with the care and living needs of each pup. A smaller mix could easily live in an apartment as long as she gets plenty of walks and exercise. The standard Bernedoodle can reach up to 29 inches in height and weigh up to 90 pounds. A mini is between 18—22 inches tall and weighs 20—45 pounds. A "tiny," bred from a toy poodle, is only 12—17 inches and weighs 10—24 pounds, according to the United Bernedoodle Registry. Temperament Affectionate and playful, Bernedoodles are a perfect family pet. They are especially fond of younger kids and provide a wonderful lifelong companion as children grow into adults. Though they're intelligent pups , they tend to be goofy and love attention from their humans. Though they can't get enough of their family, Bernedoodles might first be apprehensive, sensitive, and skittish around strangers. As with all breeds, it's important to socialize your Bernedoodle puppy so she'll be comfortable and affectionate around new people, too. She can be very charming and charismatic with positive reinforcement training. Personal space is not a part of their vocabulary, and they should not be left alone much. Loneliness can result in separation anxiety, which could cause nervous habits like whining or chewing. They will end feeling more fulfilled and have less anxious, OCD behaviors. And no matter the size, this hybrid is especially gentle-natured and loves children. They're so gentle, in fact, they don't make good guard dogs: They bark infrequently and are more likely to befriend an intruder than scare them away. Care Most often, a Bernedoodle will have a wavy or curly coat that's ideal for those with allergies. In some cases, a Bernedoodle can have a straighter coat similar to that of a Bernese mountain dog. This means they'll shed more and might not agree with an owner who's allergic to pet dander. Once the litter is a few weeks old, a Bernedoodle breeder will be able to tell what kind of coat each puppy will have in order to match the right dog to the right owner. But with that curly coat comes a greater need for grooming. Bernedoodles don't shed much , so they'll need frequent brushing to prevent painful matting. Most doodles love being brushed, and the routine allows the owner to bond with their dog. Keep in mind a very curly, "hypoallergenic" dog will need a haircut every few months. Just because they're low-shedding doesn't mean they're low maintenance! They'll need daily walkies to burn off their energy, but so long as their physical needs are met, they likely won't turn to undesirable behaviors like digging to keep themselves entertained. They'll also need consistent social stimulation to reinforce positive behaviors. The more exposure they have to new pets and humans, the more likely they are to be well-behaved when introduced to a foreign person or situation. A Bernedoodle's smarts makes her typically easy to train. It also means she can learn behaviors good or bad quickly—that's why it's important to keep up with training, even past her puppy days. Training a Bernedoodle requires positive reinforcement and, in some cases, a high level of patience. Should the puppy inherit the Bernese's willfullness or the poodle's high energy, they'll need more of your time and attention. Health The Bernedoodle lifespan is 12—18 years. Luckily, the hybrid breed does not inherit the same health risks as the Bernese mountain dog. The Bernese side of their lineage has a life expectancy of only seven years and a high rate of cancer , hip and elbow dysplasia , heart disease , and epilepsy. And while Bernedoodles are far healthier than a purebred Bernese, they can still be "predisposed to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, ocular diseases, and some allergies ," Christman says. Just be on the lookout for [warning signs like] excessive drooling and ability to gain some weight quickly. Hot spots are primarily caused by excessive licking or chewing of an area. This is why it's so important to keep up with grooming—a Bernedoodle is more likely to pick at their skin when her coat is dirty and matted. History Being a relatively new breed, the history book on Bernedoodles is a short one. After years of breeding Bernese mountain dogs, Sherry Rupke of SwissRidge Bernedoodles wanted a way to make the purebreds more allergen-friendly and free from the health issues that plague the breed. Thus, the Bernedoodle or at least the first intentional pairing of a Bernese mountain dog and a poodle was born in .Now, dog owners everywhere have fallen in love with the loyal, loving breed that looks like a huggable teddy bear. She has more than 26, followers! Actress and filmmaker Greta Gerwig reportedly takes her mini Bernedoodle, Wizard, everywhere with her. Was this page helpful?

You will be able to find all their current contact information, as well as a link to their website, so you can see what puppies they currently have available for sale. We provide you with all this information so that you can research each breeder individually and find the one that has your perfect puppy available! If you are considering getting a Boxer, you'll want to check out the incredible book "The Complete Guide to Boxers". It's written in an easy-to-understand way but still has the expert knowledge to help any new owner successfully raise their Boxer from puppy to old-age. It's widely available, so pick up a copy if you see one, here is the link to grab one on Amazon. If you can't find the perfect Boxer puppy in your state, try checking at your local animal shelter or rescue organization. Many Boxers young and old need a loving home and adopting one can be a great way to save a life. We are so happy that you have chosen Local Puppy Breeders to help you find the puppy of your dreams. In addition to visiting us often here, you can check us out on Facebook , Twitter , and Pinterest for more information, pictures, and videos! Rumors of luv Remi Welcome to Rumors of luv boxers, we started about 20 years ago. We started with a wonderful American champion bloodline. We go back 6 to 7 generations in our breeding program with good longevity. We introduced some amazing European lines over the last 15 years to give more bone structure and squarer heads. One important character is disposition, we only breed leveled headed, easy to train and very intelligent boxers. We strive for the best, especially when it comes to health! To inquire rumorsboxers yahoo. Thank you for visiting and God bless! Some of our girls are our 3rd and 4th generation! We continue these outstanding bloodlines because of their good health, temperament and conformation! We will not keep nor breed any boxer in our breeding program. We strive for having the best quality! Way to go Abby!! Abby is the lighter brindle. Hello Everyone,I wanted to share this email with you from one of my clients. Hi Corie, I am pleased to tell you Mr. She was tested separately with Steve and I handling her. The tester was impressed with her not only as a Boxer specimen but for her calm, friendly, and tolerant temperament. Abby is the first Boxer she has certified as a Pet Therapy Dog. Passing this test means the world to me! Abby can work with me bringing joy and comfort to children with Intellectual disabilities complicated by medical issues. I give thanks to Dr. Karen Gerlick owner of Doc? I never under estimate what you do! Sir Samson will now start on the road to Pet Therapy Dog. He is a shoe in LOL. Samson is good at obedience but lacks some grace for agility. He is gaining his grace and speed now that he has slowed down in growing. Thank you so much for allowing us to own not one but two of your Boxers! Hope all is well with you and your family. The pictures of your new home are great. When the day comes when we are looking for another Boxer pup to add to our home we will be calling you. After all Boxers are like chips you can? My youngest son will be looking for a puppy sometime late summer or fall and he wants a Boxer. I wonder why he picked the breed? We enjoy seeing all of your new pups and truly appreciate your dedication as a breeder. Please ADD 3. Thank you, we appreciate your understanding! Welcome Testimonials "Can't be happier with our Rosie who we picked up November .Great temperment, easy to train, and the friendliest fun loving girl ever. We are already thinking of another o.These Boxers are amazing. Top of the line Their temperament, their disposition, their health.I have 3 amazing boxer babies from t.Available: Now Hey everyone! Chance was an owner surrender to the animal shelter and was in rough shape. Along with a really nasty skin condition, he was emaciated, had an upper respiratory infection, UTI, GI worms, and heart worms. It was clearly evident he had been neglected and abused. He got treated and well fed with a heaping side of love and care so he could be ready to meet his new family. Even though he had a rough patch, he still loves and want to be loved. He is a true velcro Boxer and want to be with you and cuddle. If he can't cuddle, he will be at your side, waiting for your attention and to look into your soul with those big, chocolate eyes. He wants to do whatever you do and be where you are. He is such a joy to be with. He had a good life before his previous owner, so he was already neutered and knew manners and commands. He is very smart and love treats, so I he picks new things up fast. He is house broken and know to stop something if mom says "uh-uh no" or "leave it" in her firm voice. He doesn'tt chew anything and doesn't counter surf. He only barks at delivery people. Chance can share his people, toys, and his bed, but please let him have his food to himself - he didn't always have food and worries. Chance knows the up and down commands, though he won't get on furniture unless you tell me it is okay each time. He also know sit, stay, come, and shake. Chance walk easy on a leash and loves his walks. He corrects easy with voice commands and gentle pressure on the leash. Sometimes, something fun to chase goes by and he wants to get it. He uses a harness and that helps him learn not to do that. He is already much better at it, except with cats and rabbits - those are too exciting. Some of his favorites include car rides, walks, being outdoors, toys, and cuddling. Part of his past was being crated all day, every day without bathroom breaks, enough food, or play time. So please let him play often, with lots of exercise. Also, Chance can not ever be crated at home, the vet or boarding except in emergencies and with medication. Crating triggers panic attacks for him specifically because of his past. The good thing is, he is such a good boy free roam, you don't need to crate him! Chance very much likes dogs and wants to play, but his foster Boxer brother is really old and can't play. He plays with his people and neighbor dogs. Chance does a good job, but can miss some doggie signals and will need help learning all of them for playtime. He acts like a big puppy, so he could knock down or step on little children with his zoomies. He does love all the rubs, pets, hugs, cuddles, ear smooshing, kisses, and scratches you can dish out. He also is happy to be lifted for a bath, car ride, or vet exam, though. We know some of the abuse in Chance's past was done by a man. He is scared of some men - not all men, but certain actions done by men trigger memories. He is not scared of the women and kids he has met. It took Chance a few days to trust him, but I love my foster dad now. He now trusts that his foster family will only let safe people in the house and will steer wide of men on walks doing any of those scary things like swinging a tool or carrying a load overhead. Chance now enjoys walks and visitors to his house. Interested in me? If so, fill out an application and mention Chance. If you are already approved, just email the adoption coordinator and ask to be added to my list. Please consider a donation to help with Chance's medical care. Welcome to our website! A photo of Rocky, the best Boxer ever, and the one who started it all! We are a family owned operation that breeds champion bloodline AKC Boxer puppies. Our objective is to produce the highest quality puppies, for family pets and companions. We do not offer nor do we guarantee our puppies for show or breeding, instead we would rather they be considered by the people that adopt them as family members, preferably as children! Our love for Boxers came about after we welcomed our first Boxer Rocky into our home. He is an amazing dog, and has been the backbone of our program, providing many of the adult Boxers that we have today. Although he is no longer used for breeding, his amazing personality seems to be what everyone we encounter is looking for in a Boxer. It's no accident that we chose to keep his puppies, they have the same laid-back and relaxed personalities as Rocky. We are vigilant to assure that our puppies are the finest available, we use the best technology to closely monitor the mother and her babies for the first eight weeks. We work with and handle the puppies daily, pampering them helps to create superior emotional health. Three days after birth dew claws are removed and tails are docked by a licensed veterinarian. Vaccinations and deworming is completed utilizing a strict program, all documentation is provided. Pre-crate training begins at six weeks of age. Puppies are socialized with adult dogs and other animals, such as cats at an early age. All trademarks and copyrights on this page are owned by their respective owners. All else Copyright Riverhillboxers. All Rights Reserved.

Here is the deal! Check out Arizona Labradoodles , and you will get the best puppies. Furthermore, they nurture their puppies in a friendly atmosphere with a conducive home. In addition, all breeding parents undergo tests to assure you of a healthy puppy. Besides, they have effective programs for neurological stimulation practices. They will hence guide you to continue once you pick your labradoodle. They also have accreditation from the Australian Labradoodle Association. Contact information Website: arizonalabradoodles. They connect puppet fans like you with the best companion for life. In addition, they rehabilitate and shelter puppies regardless of age and breed. Whereas, They majorly operate in the eastern parts of Chandler in Arizona. If you wish to be a foster parent, visit their website www. Fill in an application letter, and then wait for a review. Afterward, you will go for a greet and meet session. They will then allow you to interact with your favorite puppy for two weeks. The bonding period is fantastic. You get to know the adjustments to make. Also, there are discounts for small dogs, adopted pairs, and puppies with underlying medical problems. Contact information. Email: summitdogrescue yahoo. They take in different breeds of dogs and look for loving homes for them. The facility was established in .Since then, they have rescued more than animals and settled them in their permanent homes. The rescued dogs come from different places, including high-kill shelters. The facility has plenty of dogs at any given time. However, if you are interested, you can check out specific pets you would like to adopt. Most times, dog rescues in Colorado may not know the exact breed of a Doodle. You will have to keep checking their website of available pets to find a quality Labradoodle potentially. If your want to adopt a dog from 2 Blondes Rescue in Colorado, you will need to fill out a detailed application form. You can also apply as a foster parent. All of their dogs are offered the necessary medical care once they are rescued from their high-kill shelters. They are also vaccinated before they are allowed to leave for their permanent homes. Therefore, you can be sure to get a healthy and quality Labradoodle from 2 Blondes Rescue. There are also several ways that you can get involved with 2 Blondes Rescue if you want to volunteer or donate. They have friendly workers who will welcome you and help you identify your desired dog. You can visit their website to see the available dogs looking for new homes or contact them through their email address. They work with several volunteers throughout the area to help care for their canine friends. They mostly have Doodle dogs or different types of Poodle mixes. Therefore, you will need to check their website from time to time. They have an active website where they usually update their list of available dogs looking for new homes. In addition to rescuing and caring for dogs throughout the region, they help families with pets of their own to get neutering and spaying services. The facility usually takes in dogs, rabbits, and cats. Their adoption process is quite extensive. If you want to adopt a Labradoodle from this dog rescue , you will be required to fill out an extensive application form that will require you to discuss yourself. They will also require you to discuss your lifestyle so that they give you a dog that suits you best. In addition, you will be required to pay an adoption fee, provide proof of a willingness to care for the dog you adopt, prove your current address, and consent of your landlord if you have one. Their dogs are vaccinated before being taken to their permanent homes. For more inquiries about their services, you can contact them through their phone number. All their dogs are placed into foster homes which have been specially screened to offer the best possible care to puppies and their mothers. All dogs at Colorado Puppy Rescue are offered the necessary medical care and vaccination once they are rescued from their high-kill shelters. They are also trained and socialized with other pets before being moved to their new homes. Therefore, you can be sure of adopting a healthy and well-socialized Labradoodle from them. They have been rescuing puppies and dogs for over 15 years. Over the years, they have won a reputation because of their top services. If you want to adopt a Labradoodle from them, you will need to visit their website and fill out an application form. Applications usually stay on file for six months. Therefore, if you are willing to wait, there is a possibility that a puppy that meets your needs will be available. All dogs at the facility receive a full veterinary examination. They also offer a complimentary free wellness check. You can reach them through their email address for any questions about their services. Colorado Puppy Rescue Details. Vocality level 3 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. They are generally very friendly and are an ideal best friend. Labradoodles are very playful and have a high energy level. Long walks, hiking or jogging will definitely be a part of your future life as dog-parent to a Labradoodle. These dogs tend to do well with children in the home, but sometimes are better suited for older kids since they could knock smaller family members over with their size and exuberance. Are you looking for a dog park buddy? The Labradoodle could be the perfect match for you! They usually like to play with other dogs, so a good romp with some canine friends is ideal for them, with proper oversight and introductions. They would be a good choice if you have other pets in the home, given their general good nature. Still, cautious introductions of new pets are always a must! Labradoodles usually want to please their parents, so can be easily trained with positive methods. Upkeep Labradoodles have a lot of energy to burn! You should expect to dedicate at least minutes per day to giving your Labradoodle an outlet for their energy, whether in the form of a structured walk, playing in the yard with them, training, or a trip to the dog park to socialize. Their enthusiasm could easily turn to destructive behavior if not given this outlet. They would do best in a home with a fenced yard, so this energetic dog may not be the best option if you have a low-energy apartment life. Grooming needs will vary, depending on whether your Labradoodle inherits smoother or curlier fur from the Labrador and Poodle breeds. You can expect to devote some time each week to regular brushing and bathing, but some may require a trip to a professional groomer every weeks. What people love most are their incredibly cute looks and dazzling personality. They are like big cuddly teddy bears with their wavy soft fur, big round brown eyes and dark noses. As soon as you see one you will want to cuddle. These dogs are huge love bugs and will certainly want to cuddle with you too! These days everyone seems to want a Labradoodle! Lots of people are now breeding Labradoodles because of a huge demand. However, not all breeders are trustworthy. Reputable breeders will know how to breed a healthy puppy. They will also adhere to the standards set by the Australian Labradoodle Club of America. For first time owners Labradoodles are one of the best breeds because of how obedient and smart they are. Because they are a combination of a Labrador and a Poodle they can be easily trained. They also make great family dogs because of their gentleness with children. However, these dogs are not meant for everyone. They need someone who can be dedicated to them and can take them out on long walks and exciting adventures. Unfortunately this means some Labradoodles end up in shelters. Other times Labradoodles might grow larger than some people were expecting. By adopting a Labradoodle you are decreasing the demand on breeders and giving a dog a loving home. To help you on your journey we have put together a list of all the Labradoodle rescue shelters in the US. Just choose your state in the tool below and easily find Labradoodles for adoption near you. Labradoodle Rescue By State.

Slight to No Slopes! We find that the West German lines are the best dog suited for family, companion, working, obedience and protection, because they are very balanced in their drives. Litters are listed with all detailed info. Only the finest German Shepherd Puppies in Ontario with outstanding pedigrees. See if we have an adult dog for sale, or maybe a retiree to take home and love forever. The Top health Guarantee in Canada. THE best breeding stock and bloodlines in the World. Germany, Serbia, Ukraine and more. The best a consumer can look for and ask for. We are a smaller German Shepherd breeder. We produce Quality not quantity. We breed very Strong and healthy dogs. Our Dogs have very stable temperaments. We have German Shepherd Puppies from world champion bloodlines, suitable for family companions, for show or sporting, agility and protection. We aim for perfection and a very rich black and red coat. We are ranked one of the top German Shepherd Breeders in Ontario. Our breeding stock consist of only the finest German bloodlines. Meaning these dogs are very stable, calm, yet driven, easy to live with in the house, easy to train, willing to please and ready to defend. All around very versatile. These German Shepherds have a very correct, harmonious and balanced structure resulting in a smooth, efficient, beautiful gait and very high endurance. Temperament, health, working ability, brains and looks. This is my goal, a dog that has it all. I look for correct but functional conformation, with a very important key, Very Stable Nerves! In original package. The ornament is approximate 4 x 4 inches Please Contact German Shepherd Need Rehome Brampton We are going to move and have 2 german shepherds of 1 year old need to be rehome. They are healthy and had been in dog training program at Beyon The Leach course. These 1 year old dog are good for.They are friendly and playful! The female is black and the.We recently picked Luca up from a seller who had a litter. He is an adorable puppy who loves to meet new people and explore the world. The hook hangs down from the metal plate in the back and is about 2. For Dogs Puppies over 90lbs and Chest Size of ". Opened Box. No Damage. My smaller.He is an outdoor dog who has been nothing but friendly. He is good with other animals and kids as well. Unfortunately, we.They are now ready for their homes. We have one male available at this time. If interested please call or.He is good on a leash, house-trained, obedient and good-natured, and is friendly with children and other dogs. Let's introduce the parents: The mother is a stunning King Shepherd mix with chestnut honey eyes. She's an exceptional and devoted mother to her.I'd love for them to both stay together and go to a loving home. Too late to return. Dimensions in photos. She is fixed, Rabies vaccine up to date. Unfortunately, I don't have time anymore for her. MAX is looking for a spacious house, He's been nothing but friendly. Unfortunately, we have to sell him because.Not CKC registered but her mom is. No health or bones issues. Active, loves kids and dogs. Golden, Husky and Shepherd Mixed Puppies!!! Puppies will come with vet papers that include their first shots and.Looking for a furry bundle of joy? Look no further! These 4 adorable puppies are ready to find their forever homes. They're cute, cuddly, and full of love. Don't miss out.They are very friendly pups growing up with other animals and children. The father and mother of the pups are also.They are healthy and had been in dog training program at Beyon The Leach course. These 1 year old dog are good for.They are friendly and playful! The female is black and the.We recently picked Luca up from a seller who had a litter. He is an adorable puppy who loves to meet new people and explore the world. He is an outdoor dog who has been nothing but friendly. He is good with other animals and kids as well. Unfortunately, we.They are now ready for their homes. We have one male available at this time. If interested please call or.He is good on a leash, house-trained, obedient and good-natured, and is friendly with children and other dogs. Let's introduce the parents: The mother is a stunning King Shepherd mix with chestnut honey eyes. She's an exceptional and devoted mother to her.I'd love for them to both stay together and go to a loving home. He's been nothing but friendly. Unfortunately, we have to sell him because.He is very playful and is 7 weeks old. Vaccinated and de-wormed fully. Pee pad trained. She is three years old born march 26th she is not for first time dog owners as she has a lot of energy and she is house.Some search tips we've found useful: Try a different or more general keyword Expand search location.

If you click on a link and choose to make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no cost to you. However, when I got my Golden Retriever puppy, I was surprised at how crazy he was. Golden Retrievers are a highly active and playful dog breed. As puppies, these qualities are intensified due to their fast metabolisms, youthful exuberance, and curiosity about the world around them. As a result, their boundless energy can border on hyperactivity, making them seem crazy to us. As a breed, the Golden Retriever is part of the sporting group of dogs, and they require a high level of activity. While there are differences among dogs they are individuals, of course , a high activity level is a common trait in the Golden Retriever breed. In puppies, that activity level is on steroids. In other words, they can and probably will act crazy. This article will look at why that is, how long it lasts, and why it seems to get significantly worse at night or what I call the witching hour. If I was a mad scientist in a lab and I had to make a crazy puppy, I would go about it in this way. I would make a highly active dog that requires a lot of physical exercise. The dog would be eager to please and learn, enjoy being with its owners, and bond closely with them. I would give it a high level of intelligence, requiring the dog to need a lot of mental stimulation. Of course, the dog would also be eager to please and learn and require a lot of attention. As sporting dogs, they would require lots of endurance to assist their human companions for hours on end, retrieving and chasing game birds. Tada, that puppy already exists. It is the Golden Retriever puppy, and it is why their dizzying hyperactivity is often seen as crazy! So, in essence, the qualities of the Golden Retriever puppy are the same qualities they have in adulthood, just magnified, which is not all that surprising. Comparatively speaking, a dog bred to be active as an adult will be more active as a puppy. It is very proportionate. Why is this? As a whole most puppies are generally more active than when they are adults — this is because puppies, as growing dogs, have faster metabolisms. And a fast metabolism means you get alternating bouts of insane energy and hyperactivity that abruptly stops, followed by a nap to recuperate. This puppyhood is not unlike a young and growing human child. So, as the owner of a Golden Retriever puppy, you have accepted that craziness is part of their puppyhood. However, after months of crazy hyperactivity, you may naturally wonder I did , how long are Golden Retriever puppies crazy for? The crazy period for Golden Retriever puppies, defined by a hyper level of activity, playfulness, and mischievousness, lasts approximately two to three years. After that time, they typically calm down somewhat. However, most will retain a high level of activity and playfulness well into adulthood. So, it can be good news and bad news for many pet owners. The good news is this peak crazy period lasts only two to three years, then moderates after that. Now, two to three years can be a long time for many pet owners, and as far as dog breeds go, that is a long puppyhood. Longer than most dog breeds. But, while the craziness of puppyhood may moderate after two to three years, most Golden Retrievers retain a high level of puppyhood well into adulthood, much more so than most breeds of dogs. As well, Golden Retrievers were bred to be highly active dogs. Their sporting dogs, after all. And that means even in adulthood; the Golden Retriever will still require a high level of physical activity. They are also one of the most intelligent dogs, requiring a high level of mental stimulation throughout their lives. What does all of this mean, then? Now the bad. Suppose you are ill-equipped or prepared to give your Golden Retriever adequate amounts of physical exercise and mental stimulation. In that case, you may have a crazy Golden Retriever puppy and adult on your hands for many years. Golden Retrievers need high activity and mental stimulation to satisfy their physical and mental needs, whether puppies or adults. Not doing so will typically cause a bored dog to direct that excess mental and physical energy into undesirable behaviors. So the key takeaway is this, it is critical always to ensure that the dog you get fits your lifestyle, especially with active dogs like the Golden Retriever. To this day, my 1. That time is the early evening or night, and during this time, his energy peaks, and he often goes crazy. It is something to behold, and many guests have asked me why Golden Retriever puppies go crazy at night. Golden Retriever puppies often go crazy at night because dogs are naturally most active during the morning and early evening. Lack of physical and mental stimulation during the day may intensify this excess evening energy. Either way, the puppy is expending its energy reserves before settling down for the night. Most Golden Retriever puppies will have an additional burst of energy during the early evening from about pm to pm. Outside or inside , the puppy may get infected with the zoomies and sprint at top speed, with his ears down, and do circles around the yard or house. If you have other pets, such as a cat, this may be the time it also pesters it to play. If the puppy is teething, be prepared to have your hands chewed on, or it may attack your furniture. Sometimes they will find makeshift toys and drop them in our laps, trying to elicit a game of tug. And, the cause of this often hilarious, often exhausting, crazy energy? A few reasons. The first reason we discussed earlier. Golden Retrievers were bred to be highly active dogs. As sporting dogs, they would assist hunters for hours by retrieving downed waterfowl. Additionally, dogs are more active in puppyhood. They have faster metabolisms, youthful exuberance, and are curious. If a dog was bred to be active as an adult, as in the case of the Golden Retriever, then expect them to be even more active as puppies. Golden Retriever adults are very active. So, as puppies, they are insanely vibrant. Dogs are naturally more active in the morning and early evenings. So, the night and afternoons are usually sleep and nap times, and the puppy wakes with plenty of energy — this is normal. Next is a common reason and probably the biggest reason for their craziness at night — not enough play, exercise, and training throughout the day. Yup, if not exercised and stimulated enough during the day, your Golden Retriever puppy will still have massive energy reserves. To make matters worse, if the puppy napped a lot during the day because you were gone, it may be rested, bored, lonely, and even more full of zest come evening. Before settling down to sleep at night, it needs to rid itself of that energy. So cue the zoomies and craziness. Lastly, your Golden Retriever puppy may want attention. Of course, seeking your attention is expected if you work all day because your little furball missed you. Suppose you have a crazy Golden Retriever puppy. In that case, I guarantee the next question will be, what can I do to make my Golden Retriever puppy less crazy? To make a Golden Retriever puppy less crazy and calmer, you need to burn off its excess energy and mentally stimulate the puppy. This can be done through physical exercise, playing games with the puppy, and short but formal training sessions. Because Golden Retrievers, by nature and breeding, are highly active, super-intelligent, and very playful, they need their minds and bodies stimulated. Golden Retrievers were also bred to work closely with people, so they are social animals. Physical exercise, play, training, and mental stimulation help satisfy those needs. Physical Exercise Golden Retriever puppies need to be exercised daily. Walking is an excellent exercise, and training them to walk politely on a leash can never start too young. If your puppy has not had its final vaccinations yet, you can still walk it in the backyard or house. So, how much exercise should your Golden Retriever puppy have daily? It should be five minutes x its age in months x twice per day. However, beware that it may be on the low side, and your Golden Retriever may need more. At three months of age, 30 minutes of exercise was not nearly enough for our Golden Retriever Bailey. Typically, 60 minutes is what he needed, plus multiple play sessions, training, and mental games. As a result, play is an excellent form of mental stimulation for your puppy and provides a bonding opportunity. Remember, Golden Retrievers are social dogs, and play helps give them the attention they need from their owners. For Golden Retriever puppies, fetch and tug of war are great games. It is what they were born to do. Bailey loves fetch and tug of war Tug of war is also a great game and provides the dog with physical and mental stimulation. Chase is fun for your puppy, as is hide and seek. Or you can start training your puppy to use its nose for tracking. Training Training your Golden Retriever puppy can start early. In fact, it should. Training provides mental stimulation, attention, and social interaction. Training also lays the foundation for impulse control and good manners. Training is like a formal education for your puppy. Similar to how studying can tax your brain and tire you out, the same is true for puppies. Training requires your puppy to problem solve and work on impulse control. Those mental feats take mental energy. And invoking that mental energy through training helps expel more energy. Or when you are engaged in activities that require it to be calm and out of the way, such as cooking. Bailey is working on his down-stay skill at distance and duration. Golden Retrievers love training. They enjoy interacting and pleasing you, it is fun for them, and they want to earn rewards. And, training does not need to take up a big part of your day. Two five-minute sessions will work wonders. Mental Stimulation While training is mentally stimulating to your Golden Retriever, you should also include activities that are specifically geared towards brainwork. Brainwork can consist of games such as puzzles, scent work, or teaching your dog tricks. Although some of these activities require training, their purpose is to stimulate the dog mentally. Whereas training is usually done to get the desired action from our dogs to make them well-behaved canine citizens, mental activities are meant to make them problem solve and use the grey matter between their floppy ears. Include some scent work for your dog. The more intelligent the dog, the more mental stimulation it needs for it to tire. To learn more about the fantastic scent work abilities of the Golden Retriever check out these posts:. How NOT to deal with a dog that is hyper at night What do we mean when we say a dog is hyper? Some dogs tend to have sudden energy releases, racing around the house or yard in a seemingly chaotic manner. What dogs are more prone to being hyper? All dogs can be affected by the zoomies, from a Siberian Husky to a Teacup Chihuahua. Big, small, short-haired, long-haired, family pet or guard dog — the urge can strike them all! That being said, the behavior is more common in younger dogs who have more energy to burn than their older counterparts. You might find that dogs in the puppy or adolescent stage are especially prone to being hyper. The result is a quick energy release that typically comes out as a crazy, haphazard run. When might a dog become hyper? A hyper dog every evening can get very tiring for the loving pet owner A case of the zoomies can strike at any time. One minute your dog will be quietly sitting there. The next they will be off and racing. While it can happen at any time of the day, periods of hyperactivity are more likely to occur at nighttime, especially when it comes to younger dogs. Dogs may also become hyper after a bath or getting wet, or even during play if they get really worked up. What causes dogs to be hyper at night? There is a whole range of reasons why dogs become hyper at night. Insufficient physical exercise Getting hyper at night can simply be a way for a dog to burn excess energy. This is especially common in active breeds, like German Shepherds , if they are not getting enough daily exercise. Like with people, there are ways to exercise and tire the body, and there are ways to exercise and tire the brain. Try to incorporate some mental stimulation into their daily routine by playing games or exploring new places. This way, your dog is more likely to be mentally satisfied when it comes to sleep time. There are simple indoor games and acitvities you can play with your adult dog or pup to tire their brain and also help with dog training. Being overtired Hyperactivity is often associated with excess energy, but the opposite can also have the same effect. If a dog becomes overtired, it might struggle to understand the sensation. The resulting outcome is random bursts of crazy energy. Older dogs and puppies are both susceptible to hyper night time behavior A learned behavior Sometimes we reward our dogs for behavior without meaning to. This can undoubtedly be the case with the zoomies. The first time we see our dog act in this way, we are amused. We might try to distract them with attention or food, not realizing that we are rewarding and encouraging annoying behavior. If a dog receives positive reinforcement for a behavior, they will likely do it again to receive the same reaction. This means that a pet dog might become hyperactive for no reason other than to evoke a positive response. Always be aware of your actions and reactions to ensure your training is consistent. Eating too close to sleep time Food is an energy source, therefore eating too close to bedtime may cause a dog to have a sudden energy burst that results in hyperactivity. If you notice this becoming a problem, try to feed your dog earlier to give them time to digest their food and burn off some of the associated energy. Gut discomfort Dogs can find it challenging to understand pain and discomfort. If your dog has a stomach ache or is experiencing any type of gut discomfort, this may be causing them to run around. Make sure that your dog is eating a good diet and try to rule out any allergies. Fear or anxiety Being scared or anxious can send a dog into a fit of chaos. This means that a dog suffering from separation anxiety is likely to become hyperactive in certain situations. Just like with physical discomfort, dogs think the best way to cope is to try to escape. Additionally, dogs are light sleepers and can be disrupted easily. An unexpected sound may suddenly frighten them, causing them to wake and run. Crate training can help calm a dog , reducing anxiery and preventing hyper behavior. How to deal with a dog that is hyper at night While having a dog that gets hyper at night can be hugely inconvenient, there are ways to deal with it. Try the following actions to get your dog under control and help you all relax at night. Consider the circumstances Begin by evaluating the situation and identifying any triggers. Has your dog always been prone to getting hyper at night, or is it new behavior? Next, have a think about when and where your dog is hyper. Are there situations where your dog is less hyper? Finally, consider your specific dog. Puppies are much more likely to get hyper at night than older dogs, so if your dog is still young, then they will likely grow out of it. From Goldendoodles to Australian Shepherds — some dogs need to run! Ensure your dog is getting enough exercise A good starting point for dogs suffering from hyperactivity at night is to give them more exercise. Remember that a hyper dog might lack physical or mental stimulation, so taking them for regular walks and activities can help on both fronts. It is generally recommended that dogs get exercised for 1 hour per day. Still, the type of exercise suited to your dog will vary. Some need a really good run for the entire 60 minutes, while others will benefit from more short, fast activity throughout the day. This can be playing with a ball, interacting with their owner, or exploring new places that also engage their brain. Ask a friend, neighbor, or even hire a dog walker. A tired dog is less likely to act hyper or engage in barking or other undesirable behavior. Even super cute Yorkie puppies can act hyper Set up a comfortable sleep environment If a dog is becoming hyper at night, it might be uncomfortable in its sleep environment. Ensure that they have a designated sleep spot that is safe, comfortable, and free from distractions. If the temperature is too hot or cold, this can cause your dog to wake and run around at night. It is common for senior dogs to feel temperature more as they age. If it is a young dog you can also try implementing a nighttime routine to help them settle and try to avoid witching hour. Feed them at the same time in the same place, take them to the toilet each night , give them a pat and a cuddle. How NOT to deal with a dog that is hyper at night The things we do as dog owners can have a considerable impact on our four-legged friends. If your dog regularly engages in hyper-fits at night, evaluate your own behavior to make sure that you are not rewarding it. Like with any training, you do not want to encourage unwanted behavior by giving your dog attention, treats, or positive reinforcement. You might think that a pat or some food is a good distraction, but your dog will see it as getting something good in exchange for zooming around the house. Do not feed too close to bedtime. Do not feed an inconsistent, unhealthy diet. Overall, diet can have a considerable impact on a dog and its behaviors. Dogs that are hyper at night might be impacted by their diet, so make sure you avoid unhealthy foods that could be hurting their stomachs. Also, avoid inconsistency. Just like with people, diet changes can impact energy levels and the way we feel. Changing a diet could actually be the trigger behind your dog getting hyper at night. Seeing your dog get hyper can be amusing the first time, but it will quickly become a problem if not controlled. 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. So, what has gotten into your golden retriever puppy? Although it may seem like your puppy is hallucinating imaginary playmates, they just have the zoomies. What Are The Zoomies? Your retriever pup will show random and intense activity for a short burst of time. Your puppy may run in circles or continue to start and stop on a dime. Another common sign of the zoomies is play bows. This behavior which is completely normal is a way for your pup to get rid of any excess energy. So, when you think your pup starts to get rowled up, it may be time to get that tennis ball out for a game of fetch and your pup might start zooming all over the backyard. Some pups will also do this after being groomed or after a swim. Your dog could get the zoomies, making them hyper during play. But giving puppies a bath seems to be the most frequent trigger for puppies and older dogs who are prone to zoomies. No one is certain as to why zoomies happens to dogs after a bath or what they mean, but here are a few educated guesses: Stress relief: Baths are often stressful for young pups. The frenetic movements involved in zoomies could be a natural way for them to relieve stress by releasing pent up energy from their negative feelings about getting a bath. While they could be an act to try and get back to their pre-bath smell, this could also be their natural method of drying themselves. Zoomies also happen quite often at night. Why is this behavior so common for pups? Although your golden retriever puppy will nap a lot , they also have huge bursts of activity between nap times. In general, younger puppies are a lot more energetic than older dogs. As your dog ages, like humans, their energy level drops, and the frequency of zoomies typically drops as well. You could be wondering if the zoomies are safe for your retriever puppy. There are only two concerns you need to consider, which is how often they get the zoomies and any potential obstacles that could cause injury. For example, a fenced yard is a great place for them to get all of that excess energy out rather than doing it in a small, cluttered room. For example, it would be possible for them to bump into the leg of a table leg, making your heirlooms go flying. Although the zoomies are generally harmless, you should keep an eye on how often your golden retriever puppy is displaying this behaviour. Your golden retriever puppy could be dealing with a compulsive need to zoom or may be experiencing a higher than normal amount of stress. Planning daily walks, playtime, and training sessions can give your puppy a chance for them to release their energy. Make sure to get their much-needed nap time in the routine too. Are Golden Retrievers Hyper Dogs? The reason is due to their history as working dogs. Golden Retrievers love to get attention, play all day, go on adventures, and more, but this level of energy could get out of hand especially for new owners if it remains unchecked. The longer your Golden goes without any playtime, the more they become anxious and let out their energy in other ways, like chewing on things, and jumping on unsuspecting family members. So, it is advisable to keep your Golden outside playing, walking, or interacting with other dogs, for as long as possible to let them get it all out of their system. To help subdue these behaviors, make sure to give your golden attention throughout the day, not just when they act out. This will help because instead of associating their bad behavior with your affection, they will instead not have to act out for you to pay attention to them. Most Golden Retrievers are high energy, but that is not to say that every single one will be. There are several in the mix who prefer to be calm, cuddly, lap companions, especially in their older age or if you have a female Golden. Female Golden Retrievers mature faster than their male counterparts, so they grow out of their puppy phase faster. Most Golden Retriever puppies will be very high energy and require a lot of affection from their owner. This is a great question for new owners or even some seasoned Golden Retriever owners who may have had a Golden with a slightly different personality. A Golden Retriever dog breed has hard work and outdoor activities running through their veins, they have a free spirit and love to explore. They were bred to be hunting, and working dogs, so many generations have accumulated one fluffy, domesticated, ball of energy! Age: Oh, the Golden Puppy Stage! Age is a major contributing factor when it comes to why your Golden Retriever is so hyper. They are developing social constructs, getting used to their surroundings, and just like children, they love to play. Due to their historic disposition of outdoor activities, this dog loves to be outside in a big yard playing with children or other dogs. This lets them run off all of that energy while also building interactions with others. Golden Retrievers are were bred to be active, outgoing dogs Golden Retrievers Are Hyper by Nature They were bred as working dogs, meaning they have a genetic predisposition for more stamina and energy than some other dog breeds. They were primarily used as companions in midth Scotland to hunt waterfowl, and track downed birds during hunting. This history means that the Golden Retriever was bred to keep up with birds being tracked in the water and on land over many miles. This sporting breed has always been high energy and ready to please. Lack of Exercise can cause excessive hyperactivity in Goldens Just how we humans can get cabin fever and want to go outside and do something to alleviate the mundanity, dogs are the same way. The best way to combat this is to get them some exercise, at least 30 minutes a day is usually sufficient for this breed. Lack of Attention As I mentioned previously, your dog may be acting out because they want to get your attention. Goldens are notoriously cuddly and somewhat clingy companions especially if you have a male Golden Retriever , and they want all of the affection you can spare to them. If you have not played with or snuggled your Golden pup lately, they might be feeling a little neglected, which can lead them to act out in order to get you to fixate on them. If this sounds like the case for you, then the fix for this is to dedicate a time frame at least once or twice a day to giving your dog the attention they have been craving and playing one on one with them. This will let them know your bond is still strong while letting them get out some excess energy. Golden Retrievers Get Bored Similar to the issue of the lack of exercise, Golden Retrievers get bored and act out by showing their hyperactivity. The boredom can stem from many things like a lack of attention, exercise, or not having enough stimulating activities or training. To keep your dog from feeling bored, it is best to keep up their training and introduce new games and activities for them to try. Much like children, they need to be constantly stimulated, so switching up toys, or taking them to a dog park so they can have new interactions are great ways to rectify this. These tips will give you the tools you need to keep you golden happy, healthy, and calm. Keep your Golden busy with Mental Activities Mental activities are a great stimulator for dogs and especially puppies. Mental training and games will keep your dog entertained and help to keep their attention during training exercises. At a minimum, your Golden Retriever needs at least 30 minutes of exercise a day. A Golden Retriever can play for hours on end, and they love it! Training, Training, and More Training! Training your golden is very rewarding for both you and them, and as an added bonus it helps to keep their hyperactivity to a minimum. Golden Retriever dog breed is especially intelligent and is fairly easy to train, and sometimes they just need a little help with self-control, which can be taught. Obedience training will allow you to mentally stimulate your dog while also letting them learn the proper commands and times for things. The more training you give your dog, the more well-behaved they will be and the stronger your bond will become. Give Your Attention to Your Golden Regularly The most important thing to think about when getting a Golden Retriever is to know they will require regular exercise and attention. A Golden Retriever dog breed is very playful and affectionate and needs to be loved constantly. Invest in high-quality chew treats and toys As Goldens can get bored very easily, and since they are known as strong sporting dogs, they have been known to destroy many chew toys. The best way to keep them interested and to keep you from buying new toys every few days is to invest in high-quality chew toys and treats. Do Golden Retrievers calm down after being neutered or spayed? Many owners believe that spaying or neutering their dog will help to calm them down but that is usually not the case. Neutering and spaying can result in making the dog calmer for a short period of time while they are recovering and feeling fatigued. Neutering has a slight chance of helping to correct behaviors if done while they are puppies, this is because they have not had time to learn problematic behaviors. In males, it is likely to help reduce aggression but does not guarantee an effect on hyperactivity, especially since this is a breed trait in Golden Retrievers and not just a hormonal factor. The reduced energy behavior usually comes from the effects of the surgery itself being draining rather than changing their entire demeanor. It is more effective to train your Golden Retriever and reward for calmer behaviors, as this will become a lasting standard for your Golden, rather than a short-lived reprieve due to a procedure. Will my Golden Stay Hyper Forever? Golden Retrievers are a hyper dog breed, however, like most dogs, they tend to calm down after their puppy phase, around 2 or 3 years old. Golden Retriever females of the breed tend to mature faster obedience-wise than males, so they are more likely to be calmer overall. How much they calm down is dependent on the specific dog itself, some may maintain their energy throughout their entire lives and others may taper off later in their life. Overall, when you choose a Golden Retriever to be your family dog, it is important to know the breed is known to be a hyper, attention-seeking, and very active dog. It is important that you give your Golden Retriever daily exercise, training, and affection to have the happiest and healthiest life. Related Posts:. Nov 26, Nov 28, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Your sweet puppy is sleeping next to you. All of a sudden, he takes off like a rocket, running frantically around the room. Like clockwork, he goes crazy in the evening. My Aussie mix Millie routinely zips around the room late at night. And my Lhasa apso Ralphie joins in the fun. Bouncing around, jumping from couch to chair and running like race cars on track, they have wild looks in their eyes and opened mouths, smiling and having a lot of fun. Then, as soon as it started, it ends. The race cars ran out of gas. And they settle in calmly next to each other, curling up together. What are Zoomies? Zoomies are sudden bursts of energy. They usually seem to occur suddenly. And they end as quickly as they started. Your dog literally zooms around, then usually settles. They release excess energy that your dog has. Any dog can get the zoomies. But puppies and younger dogs are more likely to get them. Zoomies are normal. Why Do Zoomies Occur in the Evening? Zoomies often occur in the evening for many reasons. Inactivity or a lack of sufficient physical exercise Many dogs are relatively inactive during the day when their owners are at work. Many are crated or otherwise confined. Dogs just lie around until someone walks them or plays with them, even when given access to a yard during the day. Crating is fine. All of that pent-up energy suddenly is released as your dog is excited to see you and no longer confined. Not having mentally challenging exercises during the day set him up for night-time zoomies. Sort of like a grumpy, overly-tired child, the puppy becomes restless and needs to expend energy before collapsing into a deep sleep. Insufficient social interaction during the day If a puppy is alone most or all of the day, seeing anyone come home and spending time with them is extremely exciting. His world is bright and fun again. And he releases his pent-up, hyper energy by bouncing around the room with pure glee. Some puppies will run zoomies only when a special, favorite person comes home. Their high-pitched voices and sudden motions can be very stimulating to your pup. Have you been a good boy? Want to go out? You may get really excited telling him in a high-pitched voice what a great puppy he is. All this exceptional excitement revs him up. But there are other times that they may get them too. After a stressful situation A dog is likely to release pent-up energy following a stressful situation that occurs. This can be after a vet visit, which causes anxiety in many dogs. Or it can be after—or even during—overwhelming events such as a thunder and lightning storm. Or he may get the zoomies after getting away from something else that causes him anxiety, such as a person, dog, or loud vehicle. So after these events, they can have a burst of energy to release stress and anxiety. After defecating Many dogs will start to zoom around the yard—or try to even on leash—after pooping. After a confining event Of course, zoomies can easily occur after your dog is let out of his crate. But other times that he feels free may also lead to zoomies. This can be as simple as letting him into the yard. He sees a party out there! So many sights, smells, and sounds can be very stimulating to him. Not to mention the great space to run in. Even taking off his leash, harness, or collar can be freeing to your puppy. And a party begins with him being the special guest running the show. This can even happen after a car ride in which he feels confined. And he suddenly becomes a blur of activity. When going outside Any time of day a dog may get the zoomies in a yard. He may see or hear people, dogs, vehicles, horns beeping, lawnmowers buzzing, or other stimulating things outside. Even new smells, like fresh-cut grass or the feces of other animals, may lead to him racing around the great outdoors. Usually my dogs are active when they go outside, but, when it snows, they love to run. Are Zoomies Normal? But puppies and younger dogs are more likely to have them. They usually last just a few minutes but sometimes can even last 10 minutes. Try to enjoy the zoomies as much as your dog does! And, if the zoomies occur after a very stressful event, you may have to work with a trainer or behaviorist to help him adjust. What Does a Zoomie Look Like? Many dogs give a warning before taking off. Some dogs get a wild look in their eyes just before zooming. Some dogs—especially some herding breeds—are likely to run in circles or ovals during much of their wild race. Others look like a pinball in a pinball machine, bouncing wildly back-and-forth around the room. Some dogs may briefly settle, then start up again. Most usually eventually crash, out of breath, and relax. Some may even take a nap after darting around. What You Can Do Regarding the Zoomies Generally, as long as your dog is safe, you should just let him release his energy and have fun. You can block them with a dog gate. Ensure that there are no sharp edges or things that he can knock over. Secure any moveable rugs and keep him away from slippery floors. If you have more than one dog, make sure that the other dog tolerates his friend zooming. If, for example, you have a young dog who zooms and a senior who would rather take it easy, try to have the senior out of the area when your Energizer puppy gets his burst of energy. When my Aussie mix Millie was a puppy, I knew that she would regularly have nighttime zoomies. So I kept my year-old rescued shih tzu Trevor, who was losing his eyesight, out of the room at that time. If he starts, call him over to you and take him inside. Of course, praise him and give him irresistible, yummy treats when he reaches you. But chasing him can make him more reckless and cause him to run into objects trying to get away. Someone may walk into the room and, without meaning to, your excited canine can knock her over. Or he may actually be bounding from the chair to the table and potentially be injured. Or he may overheat. So praise him and make it a party when he comes to you. Give him great treats—a jackpot a few treats in a row. They should be small, no larger than a pea. Always have your reward treats ready before giving your obedience cue. Have him chase you Run the other way. Make him want to come to you. Make it a fun game. Praise and give him great treats when he comes to you. The reward can be a treat or even another game of fetch if he finds that to be very rewarding. Exercise your dog physically and mentally If your pup is alone too much during the day, have a trusted friend or hire someone to walk him and play with him during the day. After all, I have some very energetic breeds—shelties, an Aussie mix, and a golden. Mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise is. Of course obedience training helps. You can also use activity toys to help tire your pup out mentally. One of the most basic is an Extreme Kong. Make sure that you get the right size for your pup. I fill it with a pate-type dog food and freeze it overnight. There are so many other puzzle toys. The Kong Wobbler is a favorite as is the Bob-a-Lot which is like the Wobbler but you can make it more difficult for the kibble to fall out than you can with the Wobbler. More complicated puzzle toys and a snuffle mat will help stretch his imagination. Get professional help if needed Zoomies are normal. A couple of zoomies are usually fine. But if your dog zooms all night, be concerned. Also, be wary if a zoomie regularly lasts more than a few minutes. Sometimes zoomies may last longer, but if they always do, get professional help. They may indicate that your dog is compulsively zooming. With any compulsive behavior, you need to get help as soon as possible. And it could teach your dog to avoid you in other circumstances or even to become aggressive. Remember: zoomies are normal. Only be concerned if your dog compulsively engages in them. Then get the appropriate help from a veterinary behaviorist. Even if your dog normally has a reliable recall, if he starts zooming all bets are off and he can become injured or worse. I take my dogs off-lead in various places because I show them in obedience and they have to be reliable in all settings. But I first work with them on a long-line in each setting so I can safely test their reliability in obeying commands before going off-lead. FAQs Is my doing being bad or defiant when he runs around in a crazy, unsettled manner in the evening? Zoomies are natural. Should I correct my dog from zooming around? Zoomies are normal behavior. Call him to you and reward him for coming. Play a game of fetch. What should I do? Try to have a trusted friend or hired pet sitter exercise him physically and mentally during the day. Does your dog go crazy in the evening? Please tell us about it in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation. This would be more likely if it started getting hyper at around the same time that you changed its diet. You can look here to see what you should and should not be feeding your Golden Retriever. It could also be the case that it is getting fed too late in the evening. If you are currently feeding it late into the evening, try feeding it earlier in the evening instead. It would also help to talk to your vet about its diet, how much it should be eating and what time it would be best to feed it. When they do not get enough exercise, it can cause them to become energetic and it might be a part of the reason why yours has been being hyper at night. This would be more likely if it tends to be more hyper on days when it is not able to get exercise. It is normally advised for them to get at least an hour of exercise per day as healthy adults. Separation anxiety If your Golden Retriever does not sleep where you sleep then it could be the case that it has some separation anxiety. This is where it does not like being left alone and the prospect of being left alone causes it to become anxious. This would be more likely if it shows signs of being anxious when you are about to leave it such as by pacing or crying. In this case, it would help to train it to get used to being left without you by leaving it for longer and longer periods. It would be important to start out by leaving it for a very short period so that it does not get anxious and then to reward it for not being anxious each time you do it. You might find that you will have to start by not even leaving the room and by simply making it seem like you are preparing to leave. You have been encouraging it It might also be the case that it has learned that it gets things that it wants when it is hyper at night. If you tend to give it things such as toys, treats or extra attention, when it starts being hyper, it will likely do it more in order to get more rewards. There is a problem with its sleeping environment It might be the case that there is a problem with its sleeping environment. It could be that it is too hot, it is not comfortable for it or that it is too bright. Things to consider Below are a number of things you can consider when trying to figure out why your Golden Retriever has been doing it. If it has always been hyper at night If your Golden Retriever was not always hyper at night, it would help to consider what else happened when it first started doing it since it might be the case that there was an event that caused it to start. If your Golden Retriever is still a puppy then it is likely that it will calm down as it gets older and the reason that it gets hyper could be that it is not yet able to control its bladder through the night. How to get your Golden Retriever to be less hyper at night Below are a number of options you have when getting your Golden Retriever to be less hyper at night. Make sure that you are feeding it correctly Since a poor diet might be causing your Golden Retriever to become hyper at night it would help to make sure that you are feeding it correctly. You can look here to see what you should and should not be feeding it. It would also help to make sure that no one else has been feeding it and to avoid feeding it too late in the evening. Give it lots of exercise As mentioned above, it is important to make sure that Golden Retrievers are able to get daily exercise as healthy adults. Generally, they are meant to get an hour of exercise per day as healthy adults. Consider crate training Crate training is where you teach your Golden Retriever to learn to be comfortable inside of a crate designed for dogs. If you crate train your Golden Retriever in the right way it will give it a space where it can feel safe. This will give your Golden Retriever a space where it will be able to feel secure at night without you being around. Avoid encouraging it As mentioned above, it might be the case that you have encouraged it to be hyper by giving it things it wants when it does. Instead of giving it things that it wants when it gets hyper, it would help to reward it in the mornings when it is well behaved and to follow the other tips above. Plus, this makes the treat last longer. You can put a leash on your puppy if that helps him settle down. Although, some will just freak out and chew the leash, right Remy? This would be a good time to get out any of your puzzle toys or interactive toys. A Kong Wobbler is another good puzzle option. The puppy has to push it around to get dry food or treats to fall out. I get an old sheet. I recommend a chew proof leash or a chain leash. And of course you should still be in the room to supervise your puppy. Confession: sometimes we tether Remy to our two pound dumbbells and set him across the room for us while we watch TV. Some will think this looks like dog abuse. I call it puppy management. Click Here 7. Pretty sure myself, my husband and our 3 senior animals all let out a huge sigh of relief once Remy goes to bed. I do let him out again for a quick potty break before I go to bed around 10 or .You could also consider an ex-pen or puppy play pen when you need a break, especially if you have a smaller breed. Plenty of walks and play for your puppy during the day If you provide your puppy with at least an hour or so of walks, play and training throughout the day then he should have less pent-up energy at night. Again, a long leash is really helpful for letting your pup run around and explore during the day. When do puppies grow out of the witching hour? When will my puppy calm down? You may be wondering, when will my 12 week old puppy calm down? Good question! I think so much depends on the individual puppy and things like breed, personality, daily activities, etc. Why does my puppy go crazy in the evenings? The same might be true with higher-energy working breeds in general. So much just depends on the individual dog, however. With my weimaraner, he was pretty wild in the evenings until he was about a year and a half old. At that time, we did notice a significant difference. Instead of a full evening of puppy shenanigans, he was only wild for about 20 minutes after he ate dinner. Now my dog is 4 years old and we do not have to deal with this witching hour anymore, thank goodness. Weimaraners are known for being pretty immature until they are at least 2 years old though. Some breeds mature much faster! What else would you add to this list? In the comment section below, I would love to hear what breed of dog you have and how old your puppy is. Please tell me some of you have dealt with this kind of behavior! Treat Pouch: A treat pouch allows you to easily carry treats so you can help your puppy focus. This is helpful on walks as well as for short training sessions. Other resources:.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Mauka and Lilo's litter, born 3. Our next breeding will likely be in Fall, .Feel free to reach out should you want to join our wait list! You will not see rows of cages, no permanent outdoor living areas or separation of our dogs from each other except during times of heat cycles. From fur on our couch and floors to stepping over Labrador speed bumps in our kitchen, we embrace them one and all! Our family works around the clock when the pups are young and we continue personal, engaged care for each puppy in our litter during their time with us. We make sure all are well-cared for and provide them with exercise, a bit of training, lots of loving and good, plain common sense while they are in our care. We give the mamas a break and try to let them decide where they want to be at any given time. This gives them some space if they so choose. We take turns sleeping in the puppy house and are always present while they are very small. Our family makes it as easy as we can on the mama with plenty of our puppy lovin' to free-up her time and energy. It socializes the babies and gets them used to human handling from a little one to a grown-up. Our puppies are well-socialized, eager to please and we are frankly wrapped around their little paws! We Care In order to maintain credibility in a sea of shady breeders, we only advertise through word of mouth, the AKC. If you decide to get a pup elsewhere, please be sure the breeder vets their adults through DNA, hips, shoulders and eyes. Nothing is more heartbreaking than to fall in love with a little one only to have them suffer debilitating health issues due to irresponsible breeding. Fenced yard or similar Labs need exercise. Dog should not be left alone for extended periods of time. At least one person in the household that will be the puppy's advocate and trainer for a great life! This also allows for better personality matching. First on the list chooses first and so forth. If you have a certain gender in mind and that gender is not available at the time of your choosing and you don't fall in love with a puppy, you may remain on the waitlist for the next litter. Once you have chosen your puppy I will send you individual photos and videos every couple of days. Our previous puppy parents appreciate this and it sets us apart from others! We also reserve the right to refuse adoption to a prospect for any reason. Our puppies and their quality of life are important to us; parents that don't provide the lifestyle or temperament that we seek in an owner and a furever home will be graciously declined. This means your puppy can be registered, but their offspring cannot. We are committed to protecting the breed as a whole for their future. They have both Show English and Field American in their heritage for the best of both in the Labrador world. They are cleared through OFA for elbows and shoulders. We only breed dogs that have been given a "good" or better OFA rating. Our dogs' eyes are CERF-cleared. We welcome the good, the bad and the ugly parts mostly good! We wouldn't have it any other way. It is very much a family and extended ohana endeavor when babies are here! As a dog trainer, behaviorist, breeder, and most recently the creator of Pono Puppy Method on Maui, I have witnessed first-hand the need and desire families have for high-quality Labrador Retrievers in the state. My background is in raising service dog puppies has grown into a love for the willing, loyal, and highly trainable Labrador spirit. Not finding what we were looking for in Hawaii, we imported our foundation bitch, Sandy, from Australia. Our stud dogs reside in Portland, Oregon and we maintain a close relationship with the breeder there, ensuring that we breed to the healthiest males with the laid-back temperaments and personalities we are seeking. All of our studs are champion show dogs and have produced many amazing litters. While you may not be seeking a dog for the show ring, you have the assurance that he will have the qualities that true English Labradors should have, including health, temperament, and conformation. It is our mission to provide healthy, well-mannered, quality Labradors to families in our beautiful island state. She has never met a dog or human that she doesn't love, and vice versa! She is clever, smart, and oh so sweet. The perfect Labrador temperament. She has had 2 beautiful litters so far. Her kids have gone on to become service dogs, preschool nanny dogs, military family pets, Mahi Pono Farm worker support dog, and even truffle hunters! Such versatility. Fully health tested and clear for breed related health problems. Tikka has the perfect Labrador temperament, build, and disposition. She has "mothered" kittens, chickens, and ducks! We are looking forward to her becoming a mama to her own puppies this fall. Embark DNA tested and clear. Hips and elbows pending tikka Always happy, just like her mama Sandy. Just look at that smile! I see therapy dog potential for sure. She is very intuitive and attentive to her humans. Standing at stud at Devonshire Labradors Huck Proven sire, champion in the show ring and a perfect family companion. Huck passes on his laid back, loving personality to his offspring and has sired many successful service dogs. He is the epitome of man's or woman's best friend. He has been there, done that, with great ease and confidence. He has spent many months each year aboard a fishing boat in Alaska, as a hunting companion, and as the perfect family pet in his Maui home. This is the temperament you want from your Labrador! Fully health tested and clear for Labrador genetic disorders. Embark panel available on request. Ryder Captain Ryder. Great build, great disposition. Such a lovely boy, inside and out! And yes, he will wear his hat and glasses all day! Ryder Sweet, gentle soul. He is just beginning his career as a therapy dog and is a big hit with the keiki in schools. Way to go, Ryder! Ryder Handsome puppy! Dylan is an international grand champion in the show ring, full health clearances, and absolutely gorgeous! We are excited add this pedigree to our program. Stay tuned for a litter announcement for Dylan. We are grateful for the opportunity to add Dylan to our breeding program. He will be bred to Sandy later this year or in the spring. Video Multi-sensory enrichment We use Pono Puppy Method, a developmentally appropriate enrichment program that I developed. Puppies get developmentally appropriate enrichment and challenges daily. Fun play time that nurtures the brain and body. You will receive a Pono Puppy Method workbook to continue training your puppy when he comes home. Puppy at 5 weeks. Positve Crate exposure Your puppy's first introduction to a crate environment is positive and delicious with a yummy meaty marrow bone. Once the pups have all settled in, the doors are quietly opened, allowing them to decide if they want to remain or come out. The choice is theirs. Age 5 weeks Learning through play Puppies are offered a variety of surfaces, textures, and objects to keep them entertained and engaged. Playtime is structured and scheduled throughout the day with plenty of breaks for napping, a puppy's favorite pastime. Video Almost perfect manners at 7 weeks! These puppies have learned to volunteer good manners, aka "sit", for attention, meals, and treats. They are not being cued or commanded to do anything. The guest simply waits for manners, then rewards with attention. The right answer is always "sit". Good job, Fruit Basket Litter, .Finding their feet Flooring and footing is specially designed for young pups to avoid slipping and sliding. Learning to walk is difficult enough so we make sure they have the most success early on. Playtime grows with the puppies As the pups develop, they need more challenges. A favorite is always the slide. It not only challenges the body, but the brain and confidence levels, as well. Opportunities like this build enrichment seeking pups, ready to take on the world! Socialization Socialization Socialization We use the developmentally, scientifically proven approach of the Pono Puppy Method. This is an early enrichment program that gives the puppies a head start in their development socially, physically, and emotionally. This helps our puppies grow up confident, balanced, and ready to take on any endeavor their human family presents to them. Pups are exposed to sounds, sights, smells, humans of all sizes, and as many Auntie and Uncle dogs of varying types as we can recruit along with many other enriching activities stimuli. We even teach the puppies to swim and enjoy the water! Puppies will have had at least 3 car rides, some exposure to the leash and collar, and will have learned to volunteer good manners. Puppies have their very own room in our house and will be allowed to explore the living spaces when they become mobile. They are raised as part of the family, not in outdoor kennels. We believe that this is important to help prepare them for life as family members in their new homes. Further, all have good clearances for hips and elbows and eyes through OFA. Puppies will go home with their first sets of shots at 8 weeks of age and will have been wormed regularly as infants. Pups are weaned naturally with goat's milk mush made with quality puppy kibble, goat's milk, and a regular dose of prebiotic. Mama does a great job of letting pups know when she is no longer willing to nurse and we allow her to dry up naturally. Pups will be fully weaned onto a high quality puppy kibble well before they go home. Training open door policy open door policy We literally start training as soon as puppies can hear. We introduce sounds and help build their startle response along with desensitizing them to normal household sounds like the vacuum cleaner. I introduce the clicker as soon as I notice that the pups are operant, usually around 3 weeks. At that time, they learn to offer manners manding in exchange for treats and attention. Pups will be comfortable sleeping in and volunteering time in crates. However, you will need to expand on this training once they are away from the rest of the litter in your home. I highly encourage you to seek out more information and videos of these processes on the Pono Puppy Method website www. Typically, our girls are more than happy to let visitors see and hold her pups from very early on, but only for a short time. Mama sets the limit here and we listen to her. By the time the pups are about 4 weeks and older, we can separate mama from the litter for visits. I also offer a link to our puppy cam that you can access most of the day! We love to share the journey with adoptive families. What's included Puppy will go home with a Pono Puppy Method go-home kit: small bag of quality food that the puppy has been weaned on customized treat reward pouch for training new collar and leash first set of vaccinations, de-wormer, and vet record AKC limited registration paperwork for pet families full AKC registration for guarding families, which I maintain until she is no longer in the breeding program one in-home training session at 9 weeks, Maui only Deposits You will be contacted once we have a confirmed pregnancy. If we cannot provide you with a puppy from this litter, the deposit will be refunded. Otherwise, the deposit is non-refundable. Guardian Family Option Become a Guardian Family to a future breeding female Occasionally, we place a female or 2 with families who will raise and care for her as their own while we maintain breeding rights to her in the future. The puppy is offered at a greatly discounted rate and once she is no longer in the breeding program, she is fully yours. Please inquire for more information. Maui only. See videos of our litter on you tube link below! Photo Gallery. Castlecary Labrador Retrievers are a talented breed. Did you know that hunters used these highly intelligent dogs to retrieve their shots? Take a look! Oahu Labrador This is another local family-run service specializing in white and yellow Labrador retrievers. They expose their lab puppies to a wide range of noises, sights, and scents, as well as humans and other dogs. They also rear their puppies in loving environments and take them on car rides from 6 weeks of age. Oahu Labradors also ensure that the pups are in good health before going to their new homes. All of the pups are fully weaned and vaccinated. What began as a hobby for the owner and her family became a full-time business to keep up with their growing number of clients. They have been breeding top-quality Lab pups with mellow temperaments and sound physiques that are easy to train. They also provide pup customization services. The customer can choose certain features of his or her future Labrador from its color, markings, and so on. Labsnsand also offers lifetime support after the purchase of a Labrador puppy from them. In most cases, they also supply food if you request them to.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. This was the first time we had a chance to chart puppies from birth until 8 weeks old. We tried to take as many pictures as possible so we could have a journal of our Golden Retriever puppy growth week by week. When raising guide and service dog puppies we usually bring home our puppies at around weeks old. On occasion we are allowed to see puppies before 8 weeks of age, but they need to stay with their mother and siblings during those important early weeks to get milk and antibodies from mama and learn how to interact properly with siblings, learning important behaviors like bite inhibition. During our days as a foster we raised two litters of puppies , but both were already weeks old by the time we got them home. We actually own the Puppy Culture DVD and Workbook which includes charts, lists, worksheets and other great information for raising your litter. Keep your eyes and ears open and absorb it all like a sponge! Birth To 1 Week Old Guess what? This was the first litter we ever whelped!? We got a lot of advise, but we were largely on our own. Large Puppy Dish — great for feeding the puppies when they moved to solid food. Whelping Mats — we ordered 2 of these mats and washed them several times a day. Whelping Box — We have a homemade whelping box built by my father-in-law, but if we continue raising litters I plan on purchasing an EZWhelp Whelping Box. Our homemade box lasted three litters. We ended up purchasing the Magnabox which was hellu expensive but if you plan on raising multiple litters we highly recommend it. We recently put together a whelping checklist with all the supplies we gathered together to help out with our second litter of Golden Retriever puppies. Check out our whelping supplies checklist here. However, none were overly huge and none were extra small. No runts and no beasts. It was my understanding that when the cord was chewed down to the base of the belly it was sometimes difficult to get it to stop bleeding. I took the hemostat and pinched the umbilical cord about 2 inches from the base of the pups belly then cut the cord rather than let Raven chew it off. I kept the hemostat on the cord for about 2 minutes to let it clout. The umbilical cord dries up quickly and then within a day or 2 it falls off. Raven was a good mama and took care of her poops. Puppy eyes and ears are closed at this stage and puppies army crawl around the whelping box looking for a teat to suckle. We did everything we could to make sure our pups stayed warm by adding a watt heat lamp to the whelping box and portable heating unit in the puppy room. As I mentioned Raven stayed in the whelping box most of week 1 and of course… the puppy piles! One thing I learned is if I had a puppy on my lap then do not let Raven lick those areas or be prepared for a little accident on your lap. While caring for Raven and her litter Raven was really blowing out her coat that first week, but as time went on it slowed down. I heard from other friends this is common and that Raven blew out her coat much less than other mama dogs. We got Probiotics for Raven before her first litter, but forgot to order them for her second litter. After an upset stomach for the first week or so we realized our mistake, got Probiotics, and no more upset tummy. Week 2 — Pups eyes are opening starting to waddle. Week 3 — First bark! Week 7 — The great puppy escape artists! Week 8 — Our golden puppies head to their new homes. Have you ever had a litter of Golden Retriever puppies? Tell us about your experiences with puppies in the comment section below. Are you about to raise a litter of puppies? Not raising a litter, but getting ready to bring home your first Golden Retriever puppy? Puppies for Dummies will give you the basics on how to raise and train your new puppy. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining. Scroll below the pictures to read about developmental information for newborn puppies. Developmental Information The average newborn Golden Retriever puppy weighs about 14 ounces. They are totally dependent on their moms. Their eyes and ears are closed and they depend on their already developing sense of smell to find their moms. They cannot walk, but rather scoot around on their bellies. During these first days, the mom is the primary caretaker. In fact, usually the moms are hesitant to leave the box even for potty breaks. The mom will not only keep them fed, but cleans them as well. However, newborn puppies need us humans for the best possible chance of surviving and thriving. We take turns keeping watch over the puppies for the first two weeks, including overnight. Puppies are so small at this age that without supervision, it is very common for the mom to accidentally lay on one of them. We handle them often and start clipping nails weekly at one or two days of age. We also give them daily probiotics which keeps their digestive system strong. At three days, we will start ENS early neurological stimulation. We ask families to wait until puppies are at least two weeks old before making definite plans and booking flights to pick up puppies. Primary Sidebar Breeders and Trainers of English Golden Retrievers We focus on breeding and training beautiful English Golden Retriever puppies with health tested champion parents, great pedigrees, and fantastic temperaments.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. This method teaches them the strength of their jaw and the pain threshold for humans. This is vital if you hope to eventually use your German Shepherd for protection training. I learned it by closely watching 26 puppies grow up together over the course of 3 litters. When the puppy bites down on your skin, whine like a puppy until they let go. You are now speaking puppy, and they just learned that bite was too hard. They are going to bite you again. The next time they bite, they will almost definitely bite down with less strength. If the last bite was a 10, the next bite will be a 9. When they bite and it is too hard, yelp again. Repeat this process. It may last up to 7 days. At the end of it, the puppy will understand that human skin has a significantly lower threshold for pain than their rough and tough brothers and sisters. I have observed it on hundreds of occasions. This training method can be very difficult with small children. Bite on their hand and teach them to react properly if needed. Why this method is important If you smack your puppy they will probably stop biting you right away. But, they will then associate biting people as a bad thing. Do you want your puppy to be able to bite people some day? I would rather have a dog who understands right from wrong and comprehends the power of their teeth than a dog who is afraid of people. Fear is a terrible problem to have in a German Shepherd. In fact, most dogs who grow up to bite or attack people do so out of fear. Your vet or trainer is wrong Anyone who disagrees with this method may indeed have an effective method but they have clearly not spent time with puppies who were developing in the week old range. If someone says this method does not work, they are wrong, pure and simple. All of the other training articles on this website are authored by a certified dog trainer. But not this one — I wanted to write it myself. But do not expect this dog to ever protect you in the future. Despite the fact that play biting, or mouthing, is normal dog behavior and may be cute at 8 weeks, if not curbed, as the dog grows, it can become downright painful and a nuisance to get under control. The correction is very simple-the puppy on the receiving end of the painful bite will yelp and stop paying with the offending puppy. After a beat or two, the play resumes but this lesson eventually teaches the pups how to control the intensity of their bites on each other. Controlling mouthing, along with house training, is usually one of the first lessons puppies learn and it takes time, consistency, and patience to get past this phase of life. There are usually two types of dog owners, those that allow some play biting and those that allow none. Teaching a dog not to bite human skin is the purpose of this article and has many benefits to the dog and owner. How to teach your dog to stop mouthing: Very young puppies explore their worlds with their mouths and will need continuous training and reminders. When a young puppy bites hard, let out a loud yelp and allow your hand to go limp. That sends the message that the game is over for the moment. You can expect your puppy to resume play and each time he bites too hard, you will repeat the yelp to get his attention and praise the moment he stops biting. If this is not effective for the young puppy, when the puppy bites hard, yelp and when he lets go remove your hand for 15 seconds. This will teach the puppy that rough play ends the fun but gentle play continues it. As the puppy grows, training him to stop biting skin can begin. How to teach a puppy to stop biting skin: Substitute a chew toy when the puppy gets too rough or bites fingers and toes. When the puppies is overexcited and play bites when being handled or petted, feed treats or distract with a toy while you handle him. Encourage age appropriate play, chase the ball or tug rather than biting your hands. If the puppy bites your pant legs, shoes, ankles, and feet, offer a tug as an alternative. Carry the tug with you during puppy training or play times. Provide a variety of toys and textures for the puppy to explore. If possible, allow the puppy to play with other puppies or friendly dogs. As the puppy grows, if he bites our skin, continue to yelp and stop the play. As he matures, you can also turn your back on the puppy to stop play. Never entice your puppy to bite by smacking his face or waving your fingers in front of him. Never use your hand as a tug toy or allow him to pull on your body parts. Your goal is to startle your dog so he stops playing and mouthing for 10 to 20 seconds. Once your dog has learned to control his bite pressure the next step is to teach him to stop mouthing completely. When your dog gently mouths you, begin yelping and redirecting him to a chew toy whenever he touches your skin. If he continues to put his mouth on your skin then yelp and walk away from him for 30 to 60 seconds. Continue playing games and redirecting him with toys until he stops mouthing. If your dog is still mouthing you after you've tried all of these training options then you may want to try redirecting him by putting dog repellent sprays or bad tasting mouth wash on your hands. The last thing you want to happen is to frustrate your dog and have him become aggressive or fearful of you. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share!