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Tweet Looking for free German Shepherd puppies? If you are looking for a German Shepherd, and your budget is tight, you can find your new best friend nearly free or at a decent price. You just have to know where to look. Most of the dogs they place are one year or more, but they often have puppies as well. This normally includes vaccinations, a heartworm test, and spay or neuter. For about one third of the price of a purebred GSD from a reputable breeder, you can give a deserving dog a second chance. Rescue groups specialize in finding forever homes for lost, abused or unwanted German Shepherds. They have extensive knowledge of every dog they place and can normally match you with the right dog for your unique situation. Do you have a German Shepherd rescue success story to tell? Adopt a German Shepherd It may take some patience and persistence, but you can find a nearly free German Shepherd from a local shelter. If they don't currently have puppies, check back often. Or ask them to call you as soon as they get one. The adoption fee will normally cover an initial vet checkup with puppy shots and a spay or neuter. This is cheaper than the cost of a purebred German Shepherd from a rescue group. One quarter of all shelter dogs are purebreeds. Why adopt a dog? You may be their last hope. Many shelters only hold dogs for a week. If they are relinquished by their owner, they are on the short list for euthanasia, as they are not considered lost and no one will be coming to look for them. My Begian Malinois , Ryder, was 48 hours away from being put down after his owner signed him over. Search for a local animal shelter. Don't make price your primary consideration. Backyard breeders and puppy mills price low to sell quickly. Avoid these unscrupulous breeders. Even if an ad reads AKC registered dogs , this is not necessarily a sign of a quality dog. Be aware that Puppy Mills also use this as a lure for unsuspecting buyers. Exercise patience. You don't have to break the bank. Your new best friend is worth the wait. Jennifer here. I've been a fan of the German Shepherd breed for as long as I can remember. Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. Are you looking for a German Shepherd puppy right now? Having problems finding one that fits into your budget? Read on to find out even more. So, if you want to find out even more about this why not check out the list of my best tips below to help guide you in your search to find top quality, healthy, reasonably priced, cheap German Shepherd puppies and dogs. This is one of the best ways to find great, adorable and wonderful German Shepherd puppies for less than from a breeder. GSD rescues specialize in saving as many lost, abused, or unwanted German Shepherds as they can and their main goal is to find new, long term homes for them. Most of the dogs these rescues have are older than 1 year in age, but from time to time they often have German Shepherd puppies available too. Just ask them what they have available and discuss what you are looking for with them. Fees for German Shepherd dogs and puppies adopted from a GSD rescue vary but you can always find out by doing online research or by calling or emailing the GSD rescue organization for more information. Here are a few places to begin your search for German Shepherd rescues. It is very possible to find wonderful German Shepherd Puppies at your local animal shelter. These animals have been turned in for some reason and need a second chance at life and you're looking for a free, or at least cheap, German Shepherd dog or puppy. So there you go - match made in heaven hopefully! And if they don't currently have any GSD puppies, no problem, just check back often or maybe even ask them to contact you whenever they do get one in. It can really be worth the wait if you're patient! So, where to start? Ask your local vet about where you can find animal shelters in your area, check the phone book and possible even ask groomers or pet stores that are local to your home. Another great place to start is: www. With all those unique GSD mixes out there to choose from, there's sure to be one one dog or puppy that is the perfect one for you. Adopting a German Shepherd mix puppy or dog can cost you a little too depending on where you find your next pet but this fee often times includes more than just the adoption fee so do your research first to see exactly what is covered in the adoption fees. So, if you follow the tips above, do your research and get all the referrals you can your chances of finding the best, healthiest free german shepherd puppies will increase dramatically. Good luck! We've had to take it off him.

View All Articles in Labradoodle Breeders Location Depending on your geographical location, you can expect to pay more money in certain areas. Naturally, the Labradoodle price is usually tied to the overall cost of living in that area. Of course, you might be tempted to adopt a puppy from a different state. Any of those can add a few hundred dollars to your total Labradoodle price. Breeder Stock Another factor that influences the Labradoodle cost is breeding stock. Breeding different generations of Labradoodles requires a certain set of parent dogs. For example, F1 or first-generation Labradoodles are often less expensive than F1b or F1bb Labradoodles. See Also: Click the image Demand Needless to say, the high demand can also hike up the price of Labradoodles, especially in more populated areas like major cities. The best reputable breeders have waiting lists that filled 6 months in advance, sometimes even up to a year or two. This in turn means that breeders will charge higher rates to keep up with the demand while not overbreeding the mama dogs. Size, Color, and Coat Type Another thing you should keep in mind is that certain sizes, colors, and coat types can cost you some extra money. For instance, some breeders charge more for Mini Labradoodles compared to Standard Labradoodles. Usually, the most hypoallergenic Labradoodles are found in F1b, F1bb, F2b, and F2bb generations, which also require more genetic testing to achieve. See Also: Click the image Breeder Reputation Lastly, reputable breeders also charge premium rates for their Labradoodle puppies. Ethical, reputable breeders put a lot of time, money, and effort into breeding and raising healthy and well-rounded pups. All of this reflects in the Labradoodle price. Professional breeders have learned all about health and genetic testing. See Also: Click the image In addition to that, reputable breeders know the importance of early socialization , training, and other enrichment methods. Ethical breeders also follow breeding guidelines set by established organizations we mentioned above. Many of them are also affiliated with the organizations and continuously keep educating themselves on the best breeding practices. How much does a Labradoodle cost when adopting a puppy from a professional, ethical breeder? Of course, there are many backyard breeders who have the best intentions in mind and only want to share the joy of this adorable crossbreed. However, oftentimes, these breeders might not conduct all the necessary health and genetic testing on their breeding dogs. Nor can they provide proper health guarantees for their puppies. Additionally, many backyard breeders do not choose new homes for the puppies as carefully as professional breeders. When a litter is born, they just sell all the puppies on a first come first serve basis. How much are Labradoodles when adopting from a backyard breeder? Puppy Mills Finally, we have the worst of the bunch — puppy mills. Unfortunately, these breeders only work for their own financial gain. More often than not, they neglect the wellbeing of their breeding dogs and puppies. Beware of pet stores, as well, as they often source their puppies from puppy mills. Puppy mills usually overbreed their mama dogs and keep them on tight schedules to produce more and more puppies. Meanwhile, the dogs and puppies are kept in unsafe and unclean environments, often in small cages and kennels. Moreover, these pups often come with serious health conditions. How much does a Labradoodle cost when adopting from a puppy mill? Above all, we urge you to avoid these breeders at all costs. As a general rule of thumb, larger, Standard Labradoodles require more calories per day compared to smaller, Mini and Medium Labradoodles. All of them are tried, tested, and recommended by Doodle owners. Training Training and early socialization both play a key role in raising well-rounded Labradoodles. Vet Visits One of the most expensive parts of owning a dog is taking your pup to regular vet visits and wellness checks. And to be prepared for those unexpected vet visits, we recommend you choose a trustworthy pet insurance company. During the first year, you should make sure that your puppy is up to date with all of its vaccinations and preventative care for worms, fleas, ticks , and heartworm. Grooming You might already know that Labradoodles are high-maintenance when it comes to grooming and coat care. Time Investment Like any other pet, Labradoodles require a lot of time and effort from your part. Other Costs In addition to all the Labradoodle costs we mentioned above, there are other everyday items that your dog will need. These include food and water bowls, dog beds, dog crate, a collar and a leash, toys and chew toys, and poop bags. So, you know with absolute certainty that the Labradoodle is the right pup for you. But how can you find quality Labradoodle breeders? As fellow Doodle owners, we know how difficult it can be to find ethical, reputable breeders in your area. Why Are Labradoodles Expensive? Ethical Labradoodle breeders charge higher prices for their pups, as they carefully screen the breeding dogs through extensive health and genetic testing. In addition to that, they provide their clients with genetic health guarantees and implement various forms of enrichment methods when rearing the puppies. How Much Does A Labradoodle Cost: Final Thoughts Adopting a dog is not just a huge emotional commitment, but also requires you to think whether or not your finances allow you to take care of another living being. Hopefully, this article has managed to answer all of your questions about the Labradoodle cost of adoption and the ongoing costs throughout their lifetime. Avoid making the mistake of choosing the wrong Doodle temperament for your family, lifestyle, or current living situation. While this is not actually required, it is highly suggested since it covers vet bills and emergency treatments for injuries. Most of these are optional except for emergency treatments. Owners who need service dogs should be prepared to spend more on special training classes. Dog Walking: Getting a Labradoodle means you get an active dog. For times when you cannot take your dog for a walk or play with them, you can hire a dog walker instead. Medical Emergencies: Expenses for medical emergencies are preferably avoided but are to be prepared for anyway. Accessories and Clothes: If you enjoy dressing up your Labradoodle, you would also want to buy different clothes and accessories for them. There are a lot of places that sell these, so you can either save or splurge. Again, these expenses can arise at specific points in time and can be optional. They also depend on you and how you want to spend on your Labradoodle. You can actually look for this popular breed from breeders or rescue shelters. Given that Labradoodles are well-loved and highly coveted, the chances of you finding this breed are pretty high. Here are some reputable breeders where you can find Labradoodle puppies for sale: Blueberry Cottage Labradoodles — This reputable breeder was from Connecticut and is now based on a acre family farm in West Wisconsin. They specialize in standard-sized Labradoodles that are guaranteed to be in good health. They offer a two-year health guarantee against hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and other genetic conditions. You can visit their website to check for available pups. Interested buyers are assured that their puppies undergo proper health testing and screenings, as well as microchipping and vaccinations. Their pups are also socialized early and are subject to a weekly training program. They specialize in breeding mini and medium-sized Labradoodles. You can find more breeders in our article on the 10 best Labradoodle breeders that are based in different states. While browsing, be sure to read our puppy buying guide so you can safely buy your Labradoodle online. An alternative to shopping for a Labradoodle is to adopt one from shelters, rescues, or adoption sites. They have been trusted and have been working hard for Labradoodles since .You can visit their website to learn more about their adoption process and see the available Labradoodles looking for their forever homes. Doodle Rescue Collective, Inc. They are dedicated to protecting Labradoodles and educating owners and dog enthusiasts. Labs and More — This rescue organization based in San Diego, California, has rescued more than 12, dogs since .They rescue large dogs and mixed breeds, including Labradoodles. You can visit their website, where they have a guide before adopting for those interested. Head over to our 10 best Labradoodle rescues article to find even more options and increase your chances of finding a Labradoodle. You can also visit your local shelter to look for Labradoodles up for adoption. Money-Saving Tips for Labradoodle Owners Knowing that taking care of Labradoodles costs a significant amount, any Labradoodle owner would want to save a few bucks in any way they can. To help, we came up with some cost-effective ways to care for your pooch. Here are some ways to cut down on expenses for your Labradoodle: Groom your Labradoodle at home. While professional groomers can save you time and provide proper grooming thanks to their training and skills, there is no doubt that they can charge quite a bit. Learning how to do basic grooming yourself, especially since this hybrid has a low shedding coat, can surely save you some money. Grooming sessions at home can also serve as quality time with your canine companion. Make dog food yourself. Store-bought dog food and treats are convenient, but the cost adds up. You can try making dog food at home, instead. Not only does this allow you to control what exactly you are feeding your pet, but it can also be cheaper. Buy good-quality items. Getting items that are of good quality and durable can be more expensive at the time of purchase but will actually save you money in the long run. Take your Labradoodle for regular vet visits. Emergency treatments and procedures often cost more than regular vet visits and can help you avoid an unhealthy puppy. Knowing what items to invest in and what to avoid can significantly reduce the cost of owning a Labradoodle. A little creativity and strategizing will go a long way. The expenses for this designer breed are far from cheap. However, you should know that this is nothing out of the ordinary since many popular crossbreed dogs also have similar costs. If you are one of the many people interested in Labradoodles, I hope this guide has helped you decide whether owning one is worth all the investment. We would love to hear your thoughts and insights in the comments below! Owners of Labradoodles are also welcome to share their tips and experiences on the different Labradoodle costs. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. A close up face image of Labradoodle puppy Max The price depends on many factors and can vary from breeder to breeder. While this might seem like a hefty price to pay for a puppy, the low prices that you find on social media or other ads are usually from puppy mills that try to over-breed these beloved animals in inappropriate and unethical ways. Low-quality living conditions notwithstanding, puppies from such places have a high probability of suffering from ailments and issues caused by genetic mutations occurring from rapid breeding. Labradoodle costs around the world In Australia the average prices for non-shedding Labradoodles ranged from AUD. There were some niche breeders that charged much more. Depending on how unique the coat color is, the price will vary. Parti-colored Labradoodles like Tuxedo Labradoodle or Phantom Labradoodle cost significantly more than a solid-colored cream, black, or gold Labradoodle. Sometimes, depending on your location, you may have to shell out extra dollars if you specifically want a multi-colored Labradoodle. Coat texture is another influencing factor. Shiny, sleek coats are more attractive and an indication of a superior bloodline. Hence, they are going to cost more. Curly and wavy-haired Labradoodles will be more expensive than straight-haired ones as they are almost non-shedding and hypoallergenic. Blue-eyed Labradoodles can be even more expensive, owing to their rarity and beauty. Labradoodle Size As they are crossbred, there are no specific breeding standards for Labradoodles. Most breeders classify Labradoodle puppy sizes as standard, medium, and miniature. Toy, teacup, miniature, and maxi are some other terms used to describe the size of Labradoodle dogs. The smaller the puppy size, the higher its price. This is because of the increased demand for smaller-sized dogs. Some breeders have their own standards and classifications when it comes to dog size and weight. While some breeders consider pound dogs as petite, others see them as miniature. Micro and petit are other terms that are used, both interchangeably and independently by different breeders. Usually, petit dogs fall in the pounds range, and micro dogs under 10 pounds. Age Typically, most people prefer buying a young puppy rather than a full-grown dog. Hence, prices are higher for puppies than dogs. For instance, a 6-month-old puppy is going to cost less than a 6-week-old one. A rich Apricot coat Labradoodle at the groomer. Generation Type Another determining factor is the percentage of each parent breed in the Labradoodle puppy. F1B generations have a purebred Poodle and an F1 generation Labradoodle as their parents. While this is a rarer generation, they are cheaper as their chances of being hypoallergenic is lesser than that of others. Generally, F1B Labradoodles are the most expensive generation as they have the highest chance of being hypoallergenic. Location and Demand The Labradoodle breed is one of the most popular crossbreed dogs, a close second to the Goldendoodles. This has significantly increased their value and demand. Dog breeders of bigger cities will have a large client pool and higher earnings. They usually have a hard time keeping up with the demands and hence have to increase their price. Breeders from rural areas have comparatively lower demand and charge less for their puppies. Nevertheless, the demand for low-shedding, hypoallergenic dogs is high everywhere, regardless of the size and popularity of a place. While it might be cheaper to buy your Labradoodle puppy from a rural breeder, you might still have to beat your budget to travel the extra distance or to have the puppy transferred to you. Although the low prices advertised at puppy mills might be tempting, getting a Labradoodle puppy from a reputed breeder is always a better option. Besides being spayed, neutered, and vaccinated, puppies from reputed breeders will also be appropriately socialized. This will make it easier for them to adapt to their new home. Most reputable breeders establish their prices based on their experience, investment, knowledge, credentials, and reputation with previous customers. Some breeders even incorporate training from a young age, and some puppies are potty trained at just eight weeks old. Reputed breeders also have health certificates and genetic records of both parent dogs in place. These certificates are proof that your Labradoodle is in the best of health and hygiene. Other Costs Associated With Labradoodles The preliminary cost of a Labradoodle will be substantially less than the total expenses involved throughout its life. Additionally, you might have to spend more on training foods and treats. Grooming The grooming needs of Labradoodles may vary depending on the type and length of their coat. Although Labradoodles are almost hypoallergenic, they need regular brushing and bathing. Medical Costs Most crossbreed dogs are usually less prone to ailments and diseases. Their larger gene pool also reduces their risk of inheriting diseases. One of the most common health issues with Labradoodle is hip dysplasia. And the surgical procedure to fix this is expensive, which is especially necessary for older Labradoodles. Besides this, there are other health care costs like vaccinations and regular veterinarian check-ups Ohio State Veterinary School source. It safeguards you against any unforeseen situations that may arise in the future with regard to its health. Training and Boarding Costs Although Labradoodles are very intelligent and highly trainable, it is advisable to enroll them in a professional training program to ensure their all-round development. It also helps address their excessive barking and jumping, which is common in Labradoodles. Labradoodles are high-energy dogs that can turn destructive when left alone for a long time. So whenever you go on trips, you will have to leave them at a doggie care center. Can Labradoodles smile? Ideally, you should purchase an adjustable crate whose length you can adjust as and when your puppy grows. Labradoodles are highly energetic dogs who need toys to maintain their mental stimulation and to keep them from getting destructive due to boredom. You might also have to make a one-time investment on a good quality bed as they often tend to chew and scratch at it. Labradoodle Adoption Price While you may want to get your Labradoodle puppy from a shelter, the chances are slim as Labradoodles are highly sought-after breeds that are usually kept in tight breeding groups. This is usually done to cover the cost of medical and maintenance care. Adopting a puppy from a rescue shelter is a noble idea, but you must also prepare to deal with any possible future problems with their health and temperament, as rescue dogs usually have health and behavior problems. My Miniature Labradoodle Max wearing a stylish rain coat Avoiding Disreputable Breeders The pet business has now emerged as one of the biggest industries worldwide. Unfortunately, this has also birthed unethical puppy mills, backyard breeders, and online pet stores, who have little to no knowledge about raising and nurturing puppies. Often, unsuspecting pet lovers trying to save some money fall prey to these tricks and end up with an unhealthy puppy with health and temperamental issues. This leads to them spending a lot of money on the treatment and maintenance of these puppies down the road. So, is there a way to distinguish between good and bad breeders and avoid paying exorbitant prices by accidentally supporting these puppy mills? Start by doing plenty of research on the breeder and consciously avoid backyard breeders, pet stores, and online stores. Additionally, look out for these red flags: Unusually low-priced puppies. The breeder refuses to show the living conditions of their dogs and puppies. Adult dogs are kept in harsh conditions and small cages. Puppies seem reserved, edgy, and nervous around people. The breeder has no health certificates of puppies and its parent dogs. Breeder refuses to provide any paperwork. Here are some standards and conventions practiced by trustworthy breeders: They breed puppies indoors and will take equal care of the parent dogs. They offer ample space and freedom to their puppies and dogs to run, play, sleep, and do everything they desire. They periodically clean and groom the dogs. They promote a healthy bonding of puppies with their mother and littermates. They try to gauge if you are capable of raising a particular dog breed. They offer tips and tricks on puppy care and maintenance. They have health and vaccination certificates from a licensed veterinarian. They offer proper legal protection like providing a guarantee for puppy replacement after around 1. Going through previous testimonials and customer reviews is another way of determining the credibility of a breeder. Find out how long the breeder has been in the business. Have a proper conversation with them and get all your puppy-related questions answered before you decide to get your puppy from them. With their love and affection, these bundles of joy can not only turn your bad days into wonderful ones, their high intelligence and alert minds also make them great guard dogs. Before purchasing a Labradoodle puppy, make sure to research the breeder and never get puppies from breeders who cannot provide health certificates for the puppies and their parents. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. If you are thinking that a Labradoodle might be a perfect addition to your family, you are right. They are friendly and intelligent dogs, and many have a low-shedding coat, which means they can be a good choice for families dealing with allergies or asthma. But exactly how much will it cost you to bring a Labradoodle home? The cost of a Labradoodle actually varies significantly depending on the specific dog and where you get it. We will go through all the things you are likely to have to pay for within the first six months of bringing the puppy home, and what you can expect to spend on the care and upkeep of your Labradoodle throughout their lives. The Cost Of Adopting A Labradoodle How much it will cost you to bring a Labradoodle into your household will vary significantly depending on where you get the puppy from. Whether you are looking for a standard Labradoodle or one of the small breeds that are the result of breeding a Labrador retriever with a miniature or toy poodle, also makes a difference, with the smaller dogs being more expensive. Why Are Labradoodles So Expensive? Labradoodles tend to be expensive because they are such desirable dogs. They are a mix of a Labrador retriever and a poodle, designed to be the perfect service dogs. Labrador retrievers have long been known as excellent working dogs because they are intelligent and motivated, which means they can be trained to complete the required tasks, and they also have a friendly and loving personality, so they know how to behave in public. This is essential when service dogs are able to enter public spaces that will be full of people, children, and other animals. However, the problem with Labradors is that they shed a lot. This means not only that they can be challenging to clean up after at home, but that they can be a health hazard in restaurants and places that need to maintain sanitary conditions, such as hospitals. Enter the poodle. Instead, the hair gets caught up in their coat and needs to be brushed out regularly. They are also highly intelligent, even more so than Labradors, which means they have a great ability to learn new tasks. They are also very loving, having been bred as companions, though they are a bit more wary of strangers than Labradors are. So the idea is that you combine a Labrador retriever and a poodle to get a Labradoodle, which has all the characteristics to work as a service dog and also has a low-shedding coat. But, since breeders are often catering to a specialist market, they do need to be careful to control for the characteristics they want. They need to be very careful to breed for the low-shedding coat since a Labradoodle naturally has an equal chance of inheriting a high-shedding Labrador coat and a friendly personality, as well as intelligence and an ability to learn. This is a lot of work for the breeder, so they charge more. The smaller pups cost even more because they are harder to breed due to the size difference between Labradors and small poodles. However, if you do come across a Labradoodle that does have the high-shedding coat of a Labrador, you might be able to get them a bit cheaper, as they will be harder to sell as service dogs. But be warned! It is almost impossible to tell whether a Labradoodle will have a low-shedding or high-shedding coat until they are at least 12 weeks old. With so much variation in the price of Labradoodles, it can be hard to know whether you are getting a good deal, or if you are being ripped off. Below are the main factors that affect the individual prices of Labradoodles and will push the price above or below the standard. These factors should help you determine whether a Labradoodle is being priced appropriately. Location Yes, just as housing costs more or less depending on where you live, the same is true of Labradoodles and all other dogs. Size As we have already said, size makes a big difference, and small Labradoodles that are the result of breeding between a Labrador retriever and either a miniature or toy poodle are significantly more expensive. This is because they are harder to breed, and they are also highly desirable pups. A mini Labradoodle can cost twice as much as a standard-sized version. Coat Type Labradoodles have three different coat types, which are classified as flat, wavy, or curly. Flat coats are most like the high-shedding coats of the Labrador, while curly coats are most like the low-shedding coats of poodles. Wavy coats fall somewhere in between. It will be no surprise to learn that curly coats are the most popular, and that dogs with these coats are more expensive. You might get a Labradoodle with a flat coat at a discount because they are shedders. This is easier to predict if you are breeding two Labradoodles that both already have the desired coat characteristics, but is very difficult to determine with first-generation Labradoodles. Coat Color Labradoodles come in a much wider range of colors than Labrador retrievers, and many of the more exotic coat colors are highly prized. Dogs like the Phantom Labradoodle and the Tuxedo Labradoodle are very coveted, and this can add significantly to the price of the dog. Breeder Reputation The fact of the matter is, when you are buying a dog from a breeder, you are putting a lot of faith into the assumption that everything they are telling you is true. They are the ones telling you that the parent pups have undergone extensive health screenings and that they have controlled for desirable characteristics. For this reason, reputation is very important among breeders, and you should always do a little bit of research on your breeder before purchasing. If you do find a good breeder with a reputation for producing happy and healthy pups, you can expect to pay more. They are at the top of the market, so they can afford to demand more money. Plus, good practice is usually more expensive to deliver. Additional Expenses When Buying A Labradoodle Puppy There are other expenses related to bringing a new puppy home beyond the price of the puppy itself. When you but a Labradoodle puppy from a reputable breeder, the price usually includes: Initial vaccination shots. Other costs include healthcare, toys, insurance, and the cost of any training, socialization, and canine sports classes you join. You can get wellness or preventive care plans to help spread the cost of some of these monthly fees. You can feed commercial or opt for homemade food, but if you do make the meals yourself, you will have to calculate protein, carbs, and vitamins and minerals to make sure your dog is getting everything it needs. If your dog has allergies, sensitivities, or general health problems, you may need special food that caters to these requirements. Labradoodles can have similarly high requirements. Some owners choose to undertake grooming and maintenance themselves while others book and attend regular grooming sessions with a professional. Which route you choose will ultimately determine the cost of grooming. A good compromise is to pay for professional grooming every 6 months and to brush, trim, and clip between professional sessions. If treatment and medication are not covered by pet insurance, you will have to meet these costs yourself. While this is true, insurance does offer peace of mind , as well as financial protection. If your dog is involved in an accident or does come down with an expensive illness, you may be hit with a vet bill of thousands of dollars. With pet insurance, the majority of this should be paid by your insurer, which means that you can decide on the best course of treatment according to how beneficial it is and not how expensive it is. If you have the kind of dog that gets through toys in no time, consider subscribing to a dog toy box. If yours gets bored of their toys, rotate new toys in and out of circulation, keeping old toys in a cupboard before giving them back after a few months. Your dog will treat it like a new toy. Image Credit: Mariusz S. It can be trained, enjoys working or taking part in canine sports, and does benefit from regular walks. Otherwise, the primary costs for owning one of these dogs will be food, insurance, and the cost of any professional grooming. The Labradoodle also benefits from being given plenty of exercise, but also mental stimulation. Canine sports, including agility, are a good way to provide the stimulation your Doodle needs, and these do cost money. If your dog develops behavioral issues that you are unable to fix yourself, there is a cost associated with training or canine behavioral work. First, consider adopting rather than buying, and if you do buy, do you really need a dog with an exceptional pedigree? You can save money on food by buying in bulk when the food is on offer, and ensure that you are getting the best value for money from the food you do buy. Insurance is another area where you can reduce regular costs. It is a good idea to have insurance but look at the level of coverage you get, as well as the excess and the copayment levels. For a slightly higher excess, you may be able to save some money on your monthly bills. Preventive care, or wellness, plans can also save you some money in the long run, but you do need to do the math and ensure that they really do represent good value for money or whether it would be cheaper to pay for each treatment individually. Grooming costs can add up , especially if you visit the groomer every month. Conclusion The Australian Labradoodle is considered a Breed in Development by the American Kennel Club and one should be fifth generation from the parent breeds, at least, to be considered a true Aussie Labradoodle. The breed is smart and intelligent, level-headed, and it gets along with family and friends while also tending to be friendly with strangers. However, some pups exchange hands for even more, if they have something which makes them especially desirable examples of what that might be coming up! You may also see Labradoodle puppies advertised for far less. This should be a red flag. A good breeder spends a great deal of money to produce a healthy litter. The costs of breeding a healthy litter include: Health screening for the parents. Travel and accommodation to meet a suitable stud dog. Veterinary costs for mom and her litter. Extra food. Whelping supplies, such as a whelping box, heat mats, and bedding. Time off work to look after mom, and start socializing her puppies. Backyard breeders, puppy mills, and online sellers may offer puppies at bargain prices, but only by cutting their own costs first. So their puppies are more likely to leave home with inherited health problems that require expensive treatment later. Or with behavioral problems like separation anxiety or stranger-directed aggression, which are difficult or impossible to overcome. Lots of people are overwhelmed by the upfront cost of a well bred puppy. Adopting a dog from a shelter is one way to find a dog for less, but without supporting unethical breeding practices. And some regions even have dedicated rescue organizations which specialize in rehoming Labradoodles and other Poodle crosses. This is a much less expensive route and adoption fees often cover things like initial vaccinations and microchipping. Such as whether they carry any late-onset inherited diseases, or are reactive to certain triggers. What Factors Determine Labradoodle Cost? There are a number of factors which may make people willing to pay more for a Labradoodle. Breeder Good breeders are rarely in it for the money. Even if they sell their puppies for a more money than they spent on them, the profit divided by the number of hours they spent caring the dam and her litter works out in cents! All breeders have their own personal philosophy on pricing pups. They might have a reputation and a waiting list which means they can charge more than the competition. They might also charge highly to deter people from buying their puppies on impulse. Provided you ask politely, a reputable breeder will be happy to explain how they arrived at the cost of their puppies. But a breeder who refuses to discuss how they set their price at all may be attempting to cover up the fact that their puppies have been very poorly raised and are not worth the asking price. Breeding Stock Breeders who invest in meticulous health screening of their sire and dam may pass the cost of that onto their buyers, and they have every right to do so. Puppies from thoroughly health tested parents cost more upfront, but they are likely to cost less in lifetime veterinary fees. Labradoodle puppies from parents with show or field titles may also be advertised at higher prices. The puppies of Labradoodles that have been backcrossed with a purebred Poodle will have a greater chance of inheriting the Poodle coat. Other factors There are other things which might affect Labradoodle costs too. For example, in cities and urban areas, miniature Labradoodles might command higher prices than standard Labradoodles. Some factors have nothing to do with the dog at all. For example, many reputable breeders avoid producing litters around Christmas time to avoid buyers passing them on as gifts to other people, or buying them on impulse without really thinking it through. Low quality breeders on the other hand, tend to push their prices up at this time of year. The Cost of Owning a Labradoodle in the First Year Whether you go a shelter or a breeder, adoption fees and purchase price are only the beginning of what it costs to own a Labradoodle. The first year will typically be the most expensive because this is when most major expenses occur. Such as Having the dog spay or neutered. Training classes. Accessories like a crate, bedding, toys, collar and leash. Labradoodles have a high frequency of joint disorders such as hip and elbow dysplasia, which may require expensive monthly prescriptions to manage. Bringing a puppy into your life comes with the responsibility to keep him healthy and happy. From food to medical costs, from toys to grooming, there a number of regular expenses that come with owning a dog. Food is such an essential part of ensuring your dog is healthy and there is a wide range of commercial dog foods available. You can spend tens, or hundred of dollars per month! Always choose a good quality food that lists animal protein as the first ingredient and avoid brands that include meat by-products, fillers, and artificial ingredients that can cause gastrointestinal problems and allergic reactions. This article on feeding a Labradoodle puppy can guide you. Feeding your dog a healthy diet and ensuring an active dog like the Labradoodle gets enough exercise will go a long way to reducing medical costs. However, any dog can develop health issues that require treatment that can run into thousands of dollars. Health problems that the Labradoodle can be susceptible to include: Hip and elbow dysplasia. Our New Puppy Checklist gives you an easy way to keep track of items you already have and ones you still need to pick up. You will save you time, money, and loads of frustration…take my word for it! Get Your Copy Today! Everything that goes into making a good breeder adds value and factors into the price you pay. We recommend working with a quality breeder when getting a Labradoodle. We explain ways to identify reputable breeders and questions to ask in this article. Caring for the Puppies This goes beyond simply making sure the puppy has food and water. What kind of food are the puppies being fed? A good breeder will be able and willing to tell you this it also helps you prepare for bringing your puppy home. Puppies are like human babies — they are prone to getting sick early on. Smell the puppies! The puppies smelled clean and freshly bathed. Are the puppies receiving the proper vaccinations when they should be? Puppies have a schedule of preventive vaccination and immunizations they should be getting in the first year of their life. What about once you take the puppy home? Socialization and Stimulation Dr. This is so true! And it starts early on. From birth, the puppy should handled and all of their body parts touched paws, mouth, tail, stomach, ears, arms, and legs. This includes laying them on their back. Once a few weeks old, they should be getting exposed to people in a controlled environment our breeder has three kids, which are great puppy socializers. They should be exposed to different surfaces, noises, and encouraged to explore their surroundings, while not startling them too much or endangering them. Giving them this foundation makes training your puppy easier down the road and also makes them a much more adaptable pup. Be sure to head over to this article for valuable tips on continuing socialization after you bring your puppy home. Responsible Breeding Practices A quality breeder puts the overall well-being of their puppies far beyond the money they make from breeding. Get ready to fill out some paperwork! This goes back to their commitment to the overall well-being of the dogs they home. Visit this page to find a Labradoodle breeder near you. Quality Of The Breeding Stock Determining the quality of the breeder is pretty easy, while understanding the quality and genetics of the breeding stock takes a bit more research. Breeding Stock Genetics This part is expensive but is critical to the breeding process for Labradoodles, because certain health conditions often appear within the breed. If a breeder starts with a sire father and dam mother with poor genetics or disease and health problems, what effect will this have on their litter? This part is usually overlooked or neglected by non-reputable breeders because it involves costly genetic testing and screening done by organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals source. Our breeder offered an month replacement guarantee, which was really great see below. We checked the social media accounts of different breeders we were considering to see what others were saying. Talk to the breeder in advance. See how knowledgeable they are about the breed. Come with some good questions that you know the answers to, and compare their responses. Ask the breeder what all goes into the cost of their Labradoodles. Ask them what they do with the puppies regarding socialization. Related Questions: Should I visit breeders before making my decision to purchase a Labradoodle? We highly recommend that you schedule a visit to see any and all breeders you are considering getting a Labradoodle from. Will the breeder require a deposit for the puppy? They may also ask you to pay another portion of the total cost once the puppy is born, to help with costs of caring for them. Why are Labradoodles such a popular breed? Labradoodles are popular and highly regarded for many reasons, including their great personalities , family and allergy-friendly nature, and their low-to-no shed coats. After all, they do become part of the family, right? Grab your copy today! Related Posts:.

Here are our top recommended toys with links to where to purchase them. Have a bit more time? Check out the full reviews below. Pick 1: BetterBone Tough. This eco-friendly and hypoallergenic chew bone is the perfect pick for pups that destroy their chew toys and bones after a few chewing sessions. A fab, fun and engaging chase toy that doubles as a great way of dispensing kibble dinners to prevent dogs from simply gobbling it down. Pick 3: Kong Classic Dog Toy. This plastic puzzle ball provides clever pups with hours of enjoyment as they chase it about the house or garden trying to figure out how to get at the treats inside. Pick 6: Chuckit! A classic for fetch, this durable rubber ball is nicely light and extremely bouncy making it perfectly suited for games in the park or down at the beach. So, for these dogs, mental stimulation is every bit as important as exercise. Not only does it stop them from getting bored and engaging in unwanted behaviors such as barking, digging, and chewing, it also can help to keep them from piling on the pounds. Most owners recommend having an assortment of toys about the house. Gone are the days of a dog bone and a teddy bear. These days dogs have nearly as many play choices as children do. To stop your Goldendoodle getting bored, you might look into getting some of these: Chew Toys Perfect for pups who are a fan of a good old chew and who usually zero in on the last thing in the house that you actually want them to chomp down on, naturally. Chew toys are a perfect distraction from your clothes, shoes, and furniture. BetterBone Tough from The Kind Pet From a health perspective, these toys are great for keeping teeth clean and debris-free. They also make useful tools for teething puppies — this generally begins somewhere in the vicinity of four months. A few products have even been specifically designed for this purpose. Puzzle Toys With their working dog ancestors, Goldendoodles benefit from toys that can help keep them happily engaged for long periods. This is where puzzle toys come into play. These self-amusement devices often dispense treats to keep dogs going for even longer than they otherwise might as they try to solve the puzzle to get at the reward. Of course, the downside of this is while they may be exercising, they will still be eating. To get around this, you might consider serving them up their meal-time kibble using one of these instead of additional snacks. Rope Toys Specially constructed rope, usually twisted and knotted at both ends, is great as both an active and distraction toy. It gives chewing pups the chance to work their jaws on something a little softer and with a bit more give than bone. A word of caution, though, on this type of toy. If you do choose to buy one for your dog, take care that it is carefully constructed for dogs and inspect it frequently for wear and tear. Thin strands of rope can be extremely harmful if swallowed. Fetch toys Excellent for Doodles as they tend to have a ton of energy; fetch toys can really help your dog get the very best from their time spent outdoors. Moreover, they provide the perfect way for you to spend some quality time with your pooch and develop a close and loving bond with them. The most well-known of fetch toys is the ball, and these are great for most dogs. However, fetch toys now come in an array of shapes and sizes that make them travel further when thrown, easier for dogs to grip and run with, or perfect for playing games of tug with either their owner or their doggy friends. Plush toys Soft toys are great for helping your dog feel comforted when you are away from the house. They will quite often enjoy having these around while they sleep. How fit for purpose is it? How is it likely to keep your dog interested? Some pups can be incredibly picky with their toys, as they are with their food. They may perhaps just need a little time to figure it out, is all. Quality Goldendoodles can get a little rough with their toys, chewing on them and shaking them about — especially when they are on the young side. This is one of the reasons why only dog toys will do. Toys designed for children are not likely to be as durable. Pay close attention to manufacturer recommendations for how well it will hold up to teeth and claws, and never buy something just because it looks good. Cost Luckily many options keep the cost of dog toys reasonable. You can pick up some great items at relatively affordable prices. Just be careful about the quality of the product in question. Goldendoodles, which are a mix between golden retrievers and poodles , are high-energy, playful, friendly, and highly intelligent dogs. They are ideal for families that go on a lot of walks and hikes and enjoy exploring the outdoors. You can also get your dog toys to challenge him mentally. Here are the best dog toys for goldendoodles that will make playtime much more fun. Squeaky Toys Photo via dublyndoodle Goldendoodles, on average, weigh 50 to 70 pounds. A squeaky toy will be sure to entice him and tap into his natural hunting instincts. A stuffed toy like a teddy bear for dogs could provide some fun. This hide-and-seek toy was designed to eliminate boredom and encourage positive play. This plush toy features different squirrels with squeakers that you can hide inside of a tree. Then, your dog has to find them. You can reward your pup by simply letting him play with the squirrel, or give him some peanut butter as well to encourage him to keep playing with the toy. It will provide physical and mental stimulation as well as hours of fun. Puzzle Toys Puzzle toys provide the mental stimulation your Goldendoodle needs. As one of the smartest dog breeds, goldendoodles enjoy flexing their intelligence… especially when it involves getting their favorite treats or dog food at the same time. A food puzzle or snuffle mat are great outlets to do this. If your goldendoodle masters this one, you can move up to difficulty level three to see if he can conquer that one as well. Flip lid compartments open up to reveal the first compartment and can also slides to reveal a hidden second compartment…. Twitter Pinterest Searching for the best toys for Goldendoodles that will make your pupper over-the-moon happy? Then welcome to our pack! Best toys for Goldendoodles In a hurry? Here are our top choices. This is especially helpful for those Doodles who are finicky eaters. Peanut butter xylitol-free is a popular choice for many pet parents. I like to use a peanut butter-filled Kong toy as a happy distraction when brushing and grooming my Goldendoodle. Since most Goldendoodles are energetic and many are natural retrievers, this ball is ideal for all those endless rounds of fetch you can play together. The thick nylon tassels combined with the round body think of an octopus give dogs plenty of tugging action. Why is it a winner for Goldendoodles? The squeaker, of course. All the toys included in this list have been played with, loved on, and generally enjoyed by one very happy, inquisitive, chewy, and smart adult Goldendoodle. Goldendoodles, a hybrid of the Golden Retriever and the Poodle breeds, are typically very intelligent dogs. Our Goldendoodle loves having to work for her food and I love that it stimulates her mind. Why we both like it: I like using this interactive puzzle toy at mealtime as a substitution for a regular dog bowl. First, I ask her to sit and stay. Then I say, Get it! For dogs who gobble their food, the slots and sliders slow mealtime down. It makes a great boredom buster. The material is surprisingly durable and the construction is solid. What could be better: This puzzle has a difficulty level of two. If your Goldendoodle has solved food puzzles before and needs more challenge, you may want to go up a difficulty level. In full transparency, we purchased two interactive puzzle toys from the Nina Ottosson brand. The one in the photo above was hands down our favorite—the quality of the material was much more durable. Best classic dog toy What it is: A wobbly toy you can fill with treats. My favorite way to use this toy is as a happy distraction during Goldendoodle grooming or at-home dog nail trims. I have several Kong toys that I partially fill with peanut butter and pop in the freezer. BTW…check the ingredient list on your peanut butter before giving it to your dog. Freezing makes licking all the yummy treats inside the Kong toy extra challenging for my dog. Why we both like it: The wobbly shape makes it more challenging for my Doodle to get to the yummy treats inside. The rubber material is durable yet easy on the teeth. What could be better: If you do wash it by hand, I find it hard to get all the ridges clean. Breathe Right Fetch Ball Best fetch ball for physical enrichment What it is: A fetch ball that is hollow, flexible, and designed so dogs can breathe easier when the ball is in the mouth. Even as a Goldendoodle puppy , she was a natural retriever. Would it really hold up? Turns out…YES! At last count, I think we have four Chuckit! Breathe Right Fetch Balls. Since the ball is super lightweight, I know all those airborne catches will be gentle on her mouth. A tired dog is a happy dog! For us, these balls have stood the test of time and given us many joyful games of endless fetch. The ball comes in four sizes. My dog, a medium Goldendoodle , plays with the medium-sized balls. Some reviews mention dogs chewing and destroying this ball. Why we like it: It gives energetic Doodles plenty of physical exercise. It feels a bit heavier than the average frisbee, so you may have to adjust the amount of fling you put into your toss. Worth mentioning, we also have a Kong flying disc that our Goldendoodle plays with too. We use both frisbees and rotate them just to keep it interesting for her. As with any toy, supervise during play. You know your dogs best—whether they can play nicely together and whether they are toy aggressive. They like to play chase games as well as play tug with each other. What could be better: No toy is indestructible. Eventually the tassels on this toy frayed from play and they started to pull away from the body. At this point, I put the toy up. However, I was satisfied that it lasted for many puppy playdates. My dog gets so excited over the squeak. BPA free. For a complete list of dog toys and other products we have used and recommend please visit our Goldendoodle Supplies store. What makes a good dog toy for Goldendoodles Wondering what makes a good toy for a Goldendoodle? Here are three ways I evaluate which types of toys make it into our home. These are both standards that I first learned from integrative veterinarian Dr. Julie Buzby. Dogs can easily break a tooth chewing on a hard toy. Does the dog toy provide plenty of canine enrichment? I try to keep a variety of dog toys around our home for physical, cognitive, and social play. How safe is it? If the strings from a rope toy are ingested, they can cause intestinal blockage. Be careful out there, Doods. Finally, while these dog toys make my Goldendoodle happy, every Doodle dog is different. As with all toys, please supervise your dog when playing. Better yet, play along with him or her! And if your dog starts to pick or chew or pull a toy apart, quickly remove it. Safety first and happiness will follow! Play happy. Play together. Thank you for checking out our list! Wholesale 6 Best Dog Toys for Goldendoodles and Labradoodles Growing in popularity throughout the world, the Goldendoodle is a lovable, energetic bundle of fluff that brings happiness to every home. These adorable teddy bear like dogs are also destructive chewers. In need of a Holiday gift for the special goldendoodle in your life, check out our goldendoodle gift guide. From dog toy giftboxes to mugs, we have everything you need for the dood in your life. These toys are especially fabulous because each toy includes a secret squeaky ball inside so you really get 2 for 1. It comes in sizes perfect for small and large dogs and adorable designs like koalas, cactus and pigs. Our raving fans give this toy a 1 paws up! The Bob-A-Lot is designed to store dog food and kibble but the small openings make it challenging for your dog to retrieve them. The Bob-A-Lot is made of durable, non-toxic materials and is also dishwasher safe for convenient cleaning. Click here to purchase from Amazon. Goughnuts Ring Toy The 1 sturdiest dog toy on the planet hands down. This GoughNuts Ring bounces, rolls and even floats, so it can stand up to extreme games of fetch and all types of outdoor play. Click here for more details. West Paw Hurley Bone This classic bone is a safer alternative to wood sticks and is best for dogs who love to gnaw and play fetch especially in water. Hurley's classic design makes it easy for dogs to carry in their mouthes while its bright colors, make Hurley easy to spot indoors or out. Made in the USA, it floats and its non-toxic. Click here for details. Benebone Chew Toys One of the leading dog chew brands, Benebone is certainly a fan fave. Their chews are all made in the USA and come in yummy favors your pup will love like chicken, mint, peanut butter and bacon! The company is also fully committed to the welfare of dogs through product donations and community involvement. They are sold via amazon or at your local high end retailers. Sodapup Coffee Treat Dispensing Toy Sodapup is one of our absolute favorite toy companies for heavy chewer dog toys. Their toys are made in the USA, are extremely durable for tough chewers and the owners of the company are fantastic. Click here to learn more about their treat dispensing dog toys. If you're still searching for the perfect holiday gift for your dog, our adorable and trendy plush dog toys are always a great gift. If you need a gift for the special goldendoodle in your life, check out our Holiday Gift Guide For Goldendoodle Lovers Brought to you by Patchwork Pet- a leading plush dog toy company based in sunny southern California. You can also purchase a few different toys for your Goldendoodle, as they each provide your dog with a different type of activity, so it is a good idea to mix up their toys every week to help prevent them from getting bored. These are the main factors to consider when looking for a toy for your Goldendoodle: Safety You want to ensure that the toy you choose for your Goldendoodle is made of safe materials that will not harm them if they are chewed. Some poor-quality chew toys can release toxic chemicals which are not good for your dog. Always make sure that you choose a well-known brand of dog toy that has no known risks. Get into the habit of checking his toys daily. Durability Another factor to consider when purchasing a toy for your Goldendoodle is the durability of the material. Some toys are not designed for certain activities and can break easily if they are misused. Toys such as rubber balls or sticks should not be chewed profusely because they can break easily—these toys are rather designed to be thrown outdoors where your dog can fetch them. Some toys are not strong enough to withstand the tough jaws of your Goldendoodle, so it is important to ensure your Goldendoodle is always supervised when playing with a toy that looks like it can be chewed to pieces. These could be accidentally swallowed and put your beloved canine at risk of choking or an internal blockage. Size Dog toys that are made for small-sized dog breeds will not be a good option for the medium-sized Goldendoodle. These small toys are not designed to last long with larger dogs who have much larger mouths and stronger jaws. The small design of the toy can also be a choking hazard, especially if it is a ball that can get lodged in their mouth if the sizing is not right. The Different Types Of Toys for Goldendoodles Goldendoodles can play with most toys that are marketed toward medium to large-sized dog breeds. The Goldendoodle is an active dog breed that enjoys playing with toys, especially if it involves water or games such as fetch or tug of war. Various toys are suitable for Goldendoodles, such as rope toys, balls, squeaky toys, treat dispenser balls, and items such as fake sticks or balls that can make for a great game of fetch. Some Goldendoodles will even enjoy playing with dispensing toys that release treats or pieces of their food while others will prefer toys that they can lay down and chew. There are various toys to consider when purchasing the right one for your Goldendoodle, and the type of toy you choose will depend on their life stage puppy , adult, or senior , their health status, and the durability of the toy. Since Goldendoodles are active and enjoy playing games like fetch , it is a good option to consider a toy that can be thrown around, as this will entice them to fetch it and bring it back to you and can form part of the bonding experience between dog and owner. Conclusion Of the Goldendoodle toys we have reviewed in this article, we have chosen two as our favorite picks for what they have to offer your dog in terms of safety, durability, and stimulation. Our first top pick is the Benebone Bacon-Flavored Dog Chew because it is medium in size, affordable, and a great toy for your dog to chew on to help prevent boredom. Our second top pick is the Kong Squeezz Ball Dog Toy because your dog can chase this ball and it uses both mental and physical stimulation to encourage your dog to stay active and enjoy their playtime. We hope our reviews have helped you find the perfect toy for your Goldendoodle! She is currently interested in veterinary science and ichthyology, which she wants to study alongside her main passion: pet content writing. Sarah has over 60 fish including: goldfish, tropicals, shrimp, and snails. She also keeps hamsters and a tarantula. Sarah wishes to provide quality content for readers and allow others to learn from her knowledge and experience. Sarah has much experience in all aspects of pet care. Providing the world with the knowledge on ethical pet ownership is her lifelong dream.Read more Advertisement. Check Price This toy is a textured hard rubber ball that looks like a glorified tennis ball. It is intended for heavy chewers, which makes it perfect for Goldendoodles. This toy has a 4. They also make a squeaker ball that is on the top of many dog toy lists. It is constructed of soft rubber and durable multilayer nylon, this is the perfect solution for fitness, exercise and training. Best Tug of War Toys For Goldendoodles The trouble with most ropes or other tug-of-war toys is that they are not very durable. While aggressive chewers can be hard to satisfy, we found a couple of toys that are made for large dogs. The toy comes in two sizes, and the handles are plenty big to let your Golden puppy clamp down and pull. This toy stretches and recoils and is completely indestructible. Unlike most ropes that last about a day. Goughnuts Maxx Check Price This durable toy looks like a figure eight where your dog latches onto one end, and you hang on the other. It stretches, recoils, and will provide a lot of wonderful play time for your Goldendoodle. The trick about this toy is its width. A dog cannot complete their bite if the toy sticks out the sides of its mouth, so your dog will keep trying to readjust its bite around the toy. This toy comes in two sizes, so depending on how grown your Goldendoodle is, you can purchase the appropriate-sized tug toy. Conclusion When searching for the best toy for your Goldendoodle or any breed it is best to keep in mind the activity and intelligence level of your dog. Some breeds like the Goldendoodles need the proper amount of care by providing appropriate mental and physical activities found in toys meant for these purposes. Mental challenges will help your dog learn and keep his brain active, just remember you should always supervise your dog while playing with their toys. As pointed out, dog toys can satisfy different purposes; puzzle toys for mental ability, fetch toys for exercise, and chew toys to stave off boredom, with the added benefit of improving dental care. When it comes to dog chew toys, new studies have shown that certain unsafe dog toys usually Chinese expose dogs to many harmful substances, for example, dog chews containing rawhide can possibly contain Salmonella or E. Further, digestion issues can occur in some dogs, therefore, it is best to avoid these types of toys including pig ears and cow knuckles. But, not just any toys, chew toys. They go through a teething phase like our human babies. During this time, it seems like everything is a chew toy. So, if you want to save your furniture and shoes, we recommend chewing toys. Keep reading to find the best chew toys for a Goldendoodle puppy and the worst. Ensuring Safety Before we start talking about the best chew toys for a Goldendoodle puppy, we need to talk about safety. Every year hundreds of dogs are rushed to the emergency clinics for toy-related accidents. Too small of a chew toy could be a choking hazard. Every chew toy has various sizes intended for different weights. It is best to keep within the products recommended size chart. No Loose Parts- Any toy that you give your puppy should not have any loose or dangling parts. That means no ribbons, buttons, or moveable pieces. Puppies are compulsive chewers and will chew these pieces off and eat them. Loose parts are not only a choking hazard, but can also become lodged in the intestines. Inspection- You should be checking toys every day. Any toy that is compromised is a hazard to your dog. Always look for chipped pieces, cracks, and all parts are functioning. They could also pose as an intestinal blockage if accidentally swallowed. Avoid Stuffing- If your dog is being left alone with toys, it is best to avoid stuffing. Puppies destroy toys in the blink of an eye. Stuffing poses a choking hazard and blockage potential. Getting unstuffed toys for when you are gone is safer. Avoid Batteries- If you have toys that are battery operated, it is best to leave them for supervised playtimes only. If your puppy chews into the battery, they could get severe burns and poisoning. Know Your Dog- If your dog is an aggressive chewer, it is best not to choose soft toys. And vice versa. For teething puppies, you want to choose something softer. As your puppy ages and gets adult teeth , they can handle tougher chews. Supervision- The most critical part is always to supervise your puppy with any toy. All toys break and can pose a danger, and nothing is indestructible. If you follow all of these safety rules, then your puppy should have no problem with most toys. These chew toys can be dangerous and pose risks that most people do not understand. Nylabone Plaque Attacker Nylabone is one of the first branded chew toys. They make some wonderful edible chew toys. But, toys such as the Nylabone Plaque Attacker poses a real danger to puppies. This toy, and many like it, have small sharp pieces meant to stimulate and clean the gums. But these pieces easily fall off, and your puppy will likely swallow it. Rawhides Rawhides are strips of leather that are chemically processed with formaldehyde and arsenic. Not only are these chemicals harmful to your puppy, but the rawhide itself is a choking hazard. Hundreds of dogs a year are hospitalized after ingesting pieces of rawhide that get lodged in the intestines. The only way to remove them is with surgery. Even with supervision, it is best to stay away from the rawhide bones, rolls, and strips. Soft Rubber Stay away from soft rubber chew toys. These toys fall apart, and your puppy is more likely to eat the pieces. These small pieces can come off slowly at first but can make the entire toy crumble with aggressive chewing. Cow Hooves And Antlers These chew toys can be used with constant supervision, but you should be warned. These hooves and antlers can cause significant damage to aggressive chewers. Puppies have cracked teeth and even break their jaw on these bones because of their durability. If your dog is a soft chewer, it is safe to use with supervision. Cooked Bones Cooked bones of all kinds splinter and can cause the same issues as cow hooves. Bones that you typically get from pet stores are all cooked, and therefore should be avoided. You can, however, go to your local butcher and ask for raw cow knuckles for your puppy to chew. They will love the flavor and nutrition. This will eliminate trips to the vet and any safety issues that you might have with other chew toys. Below is our list of the best chew toys for a Goldendoodle puppy. If your Goldendoodle loves sticks, then they will love these natural Dogwood flavored chews. This toy is durable and tastes excellent. They are also safer and come in a variety of sizes. These sticks come in several sizes to match your pup the best. These natural rings are easy to digest and full of flavor. Your puppy will love the shape of these rings. You will enjoy the long-lasting durability without compromising safety. They have a great smell and robust flavor. The Soup Bone is nutritious and completely edible. They even come in regular and mini sizes for smaller puppies. They not only help your puppy teeth but they also safely clean teeth and gums. These sticks start hard, and as your puppy chews, they become soft and pliable. They are easily digestible, durable, and tasty. Homemade Jerky Chews If you own a dehydrator, you might be interested in making your own jerky chews. Here are a couple of our favorite easy recipes. This homemade jerky has an easy step by step instructions. They even give you instructions on using your oven as a dehydrator. With so many protein options, this is a great place to start. These recipes are perfectly marinaded and keep your puppy coming back for more. Here is another great dehydrated sweet potato recipe that is sure to be a hit. Dehydrated sweet potatoes can be a great teething toy for your Goldendoodle puppy. The only thing we would not recommend about this toy is attaching it to a rope. The rope could break with chewing and become a choking hazard. In the first few days, they seem excited and love their new toys. But then the novelty wears off. How do you prevent this? With puppies, less can sometimes mean more. They can get overwhelmed with so many options that they choose nothing at all. To keep your puppy engaged, there are a few things you can do. Toy Rotation— Have enough toys that you can switch them out every few days. Every time you bring out an old box, it will be like new all over again. Variety— In this rotation, make sure that you have a variety of different chew types, flavors, textures, interactive, and unstuffed toys. The mixture will keep your puppy interested. It will also help you learn what he likes or dislikes. Work Rotation— Have a different rotation for when you are gone to work. This might sound like a lot of toys, but it is a sure-fire way to keep your puppy engaged in his toys. It will keep your puppy happy, and your property safe from puppy teeth. In Conclusion While your dog grows and you get a sense of what they enjoy, you can add even more variety to their chew toys. Hopefully, you can get through the teething years without too much damage to your furniture and shoes. Below is a Pinterest friendly photo…. Sharing is caring!

Call Vic Kasser or Email! Our French Bulldog puppies are given a wonderful start in life that provides them with the love, socialization and training they need to become ideal pets. We also believe that nutrition is an essential component of raising healthy, well-mannered French Bulldog puppies and dogs. For this reason, all of our dogs are fed food and supplements that are free of wheat, corn, and glutens and are optimized for canine nutrition. Furthermore, all French Bulldog puppies under our care receive regular exercise, play, and affection. We are more than happy to provide references - in fact, we insist. Our references include not only folks that have purchased French Bulldog puppies from us, but also our Veterinary and County Licensing info. Checking references is an important part of your homework on any breeder you are considering purchasing a French Bulldog puppy from! We invite you to check out our website and see for yourself how beautiful, healthy and happy our French Bulldog Puppies are! Among our pages, you will find a virtual tour of our clean, spacious, and well-kept kennel and state-of-the-art nursery. After you've looked over our website, give us a call and let us help you with your quest to find the perfect French Bulldog Puppy or Dog companion. We welcome visitors 7 days a week, by appointment, from 10am to 3pm. We are available by phone 7 days a week from 9am to 9pm Pacific coast time. Policies and Procedures provide clarity to you that are of critical importance to us. After you've looked over our website and become familiar with our Purchase Procedures, give us a call and let us help you with your quest to find the perfect French Bulldog Puppy or Dog companion. We are located in Drain, Oregon. We are not and have never been affiliated with any other individuals or kennels. We do not and have never co-owned any dogs with any other individuals or kennels. French Bulldog Puppies for Sale Buying your first French Bulldog puppy can be a daunting task, but we are here to help. Always write down your questions in advance of the interview when choosing the right French Bulldog puppy.Internet fraud is on the rise, protect yourself when buying French Bulldog puppies for sale online. Arm yourself with information, preparation and buy with confidence! Remember: It is up to both the French Bulldog puppy buyer and the French Bulldog puppy breeder to be comfortable with one another and to ensure that the French Bulldog puppy has been and will be treated properly. Full grain leather dog collars and leashes, bite tugs and toys. Stylish collars, multifunctional harnesses and durable muzzles for Labrador breed. Handmade training and daily walking dog equipment. Hard training, pulling, tracking harnesses, hand painted muzzles, firm collars and leashes and lots of other things for your Pitbull breed. Need professional dog training equipment for your Doberman - Go Here! Wide assortment of top quality German Shepherd muzzles, harnesses, collars, leashes, bite tugs and toys. Suitable collars, harness and muzzles for your Rottweiler. Great choice of dog toys and different training tools. Specially designed dog collars, harnesses, muzzles, leashes, and other dog supplies for Gentle Giants. You dream to have quality dog leash? Visit our store and you will find best leather, nylon or chain leashes for different goals! Need a harness for your doggy? Considered design harnesses for pooling, tracking, training and decorating your four-feet friend. Puppies for Sale on PuppyFinder. Offers a comprehensive online directory of dog breeders, stud service providers, dog related products and services, dog friendly hotels and airlines, and many useful tools and resources for finding and raising a puppy. View my Puppies for sale at PupListings. They are one of the highest reviewed kennels of french bulldog in Umpqua. Their goal is breeding and raising family-friendly companion Frenchies. The best thing about them is they offer education and lifestyle association to families about the french bulldog. They focus on giving the french bulldog the love and care that they deserve. They provide necessary training and socialization to all Frenchies before sending them to forever home. They concentrate on the health of all Frenchies. They take utmost care of both mother dogs and puppies while breeding. They are also very careful about the diet of the Frenchies. They give food without wheat, gluten, and other harmful things. They also provide necessary supplements too. As they are a family-run kennel so you can be assured of the quality of their french bulldogs. The bulldogs get heavy-duty toys and chewing toys and open the yard for playing. So their health improvement is noteworthy in this kennel. They always encourage people to visit their kennel before confirming a deal. I would also suggest you the same. You can plan the next weekend trip with your family in their kennel. I bet your kids will enjoy the company of little bullies in their big yard running and enjoying themselves. Also do not forget to subscribe to their newsletter so you will get all information about upcoming litters. You can check their social media and Youtube channel too. They add many useful information and informative blogs that will help you to know a lot about French Bulldog. So even if you are not a potential buyer of them but want to know about French Bulldog,I would suggest you visit their website once. The owner has more than 50 years experience with animals. Both of them grew up with animal companions and especially with dogs. Their main focus on breeding is getting the best temperament and structure in all Frenchies. They strictly follow the selective breeding method to develop the best health and structure in all new puppies. They always breed healthy puppies and maintain health and immunization with proper diet and exercise. They currently breed Chinese crest and french bulldog. Their daughter is very attached to french bulldog breeding. The dams are cared for by them very much in the last few weeks of pregnancy. They set up a mini-hospital in their home for the litter. Their daughter even assists the vet during c-sections of the mother Frenchies. You can check the reviews from their visitors. Everyone praises them for their hospitality and care regarding the dogs. You can book a french bulldog puppy from their website. They accept all kinds of payments including cash, debit card, credit card, Paypal etc. Do not forget to check out the full contract before booking a puppy. You will easily get it on their website. They would love to keep in touch with you after handing over the little Frenchies to you. They are just beside the Columbia River. Their bulldogs take evening walks on the bank of the Columbia River. This makes their bullies physically strong as well as healthy. The best thing about them is their puppies have a very gentle attitude. As they always cuddle with the dogs and puppies so they develop a very gentle attitude. You can collect your French Bulldog puppy from them. You can also book it before litter too. All of their puppies are AKC standard and they provide full papers with a puppy. They also provide some other services such as child tolerance, house training, socialization, pre obedience training, gentle touch companion etc. So if you have got an untrained dog and want to socialize it, do not hesitate to come to Frenchie kisses kennel. The best thing about them is their location. As they are living in the hills of Dallas, they make it a perfect holiday trip location. They are very close to portland. So it is convenient for many adoptive families to come and check their puppy how they grow. If you are the one who is playing to take a Frenchies from them, do not waste your time and pay a visit there next weekend. If you are interested to take a puppy from them, you must check their website. They update everything on their websites like upcoming litters info or available puppy information etc. Do not forget to check the contract carefully before booking. You can also check their social media profiles to see their Frenchies daily life. The French Bulldog is among the most expensive dog breeds in the country and in the world. Even if there is a great demand for it, it might be challenging to locate a legitimate breeder of french bulldogs. After I went through the Frenchie breeders in Oregon, I included the best, most trustworthy French bulldog breeders. Since I am a big advocate of avoiding backyard breeders, puppy mills, and pet stores, all of those are excluded from this list. They are among the French bulldog kennels in Umpqua with the best reviews. Their aim is to breed and raise Frenchies that make good family pets. The best part about them is that they provide families with information about the French Bulldog and their lifestyle associations. They concentrate on showing the French Bulldog the respect and love they merit. All Frenchies receive critical socialization and training before being placed in their new home. They prioritize the well-being of all Frenchies. When breeding, they take the best care of both the mother dogs and the puppies. They provide food that is free of gluten, wheat, and other hazardous ingredients. They also offer essential supplements for your Frenchie puppy. Before finalizing the sale, they always invite customers to visit their kennel. I suggest you do the same. In their kennel, you and your family can discuss your next weekend getaway. Your children would probably enjoy playing with the tiny bullies in their spacious yard. They take French Bulldog breeding seriously because they are aware of some ignorant Frenchie breeders. They make sure that their dogs are healthy, which makes them one of the best French Bulldog breeders. Therefore, even if you are not considering purchasing from them, but are interested in learning more about French Bulldogs, you should visit their webpage. Their main goal is to breed animals with the greatest health and character. They adhere exceptionally closely to the AKC breeding standards. Their entire French bulldog collection is AKC registered. Their bulldogs are renowned for being couch potatoes, mountain runners, and travel companions. Consequently, from them, you will find the ideal friend for both you and your family. Their Frenchies never visit any outside kennel because they are a tiny family kennel. They raise their puppies in a way that will enable the Frenchies to accompany you or follow you wherever you go. Their Frenchies are also potty trained. On their website, you may view pictures of all current and former French Bulldogs. They produce a range of hues in their litters as well. Additionally, their former customers have left them very positive feedback. You can also reserve a puppy from one of their upcoming litters by paying a little reservation deposit for this. We have been breeding since which has given us a lot of experience on this ground. We are not a normal breading place we care about our bulldogs, they are our family. We breed our dogs indoors, since we believe that giving love to our puppies is crucial. We are in love with bulldogs. We have breeding partners in Oregon and Mexico we have the facility to deliver any puppy in any of this areas we can also deliver in any part of the US. We only promote our dogs in AKC Marketplace and in our own pages. Our main principals are quality and health. We are a small Hobby Breeder. Our dogs are our family and roam freely in our home. They sleep with us and are very well traveled with hundreds of miles under their little paws as they go with us near and far. These little dogs are very precious and they exist and are bred to be your best friend and constant companion! All of our moms and dads have been chosen for health and temperament. We have a presence here so we can have conversations with people who are looking for a Companion Frenchie or Pug. Our goal for each of these babies is to find a loving family in a forever home. We like to get to know these new families to make sure our babies will be happy and feel safe and loved. AKC proudly supports dedicated and responsible breeders. We encourage all prospective puppy owners to do their research and be prepared with questions to ask the breeder. Nicolette sprauer. Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. Questions about French Bulldog puppies for sale in Oregon? We have answers. How does French Bulldog puppies for sale in Oregon work? All you need to do is take a look through the gorgeous pups on our site from all over the USA. What kind of dog is a French Bulldog? These pups have huge ears and eyes, plus a seriously cute expression which can get them pretty much anything they want. Why are French Bulldogs so expensive? French Bulldog breeders in Oregon face quite a few more challenges than most breeders when it comes to producing healthy pups. Frenchies have very narrow pelvic bones which means not only do the females need to be artificially inseminated, they also have to deliver their pups via C-section. This equals additional costs for Oregon French Bulldog breeders, and this of course leads to higher than average prices. We are completely pro-shelter, and our goal is to help prospective dog owners make informed choices that help them find a dog from an ethical and responsible source. How will I know my puppy will be healthy? We recommend taking a copy of their health history to your local vet when you collect your pup, and getting them a health check there as well. Can I just walk my dog or do they need more exercise? Do you suggest a specific food for Frenchies? Each French Bulldog for sale Oregon will wind up with different preferences when it comes to their food. How does Uptown deal with transparency of puppy breeders? Rest assured that all breeders and businesses are fully vetted by us, so your pup is bred by the best there is. Can Frenchies make good apartment dogs? Oregon French Bulldogs for sale can make excellent apartment dogs for a few different reasons. What are French Bulldogs like to train? The French Bulldogs for sale Oregon on the Uptown network make the perfect training companions. They love to please their owners and enjoy getting plenty of praise when they nail that new command!

Next » by boode on 19 December - hello there , i have purchased a nice looking large boned male german shepherd , he was 3 months old when i got him and now he is nearly 5 months of age. Ever since i brought him he was extremely cow hocked and whenever he walks or stands his rear toes keep pointing out especially when reaching out. Some puppies do have some degree of cow hock and do grow out of it. Others do NOT grow out of it. Sometimes it is really bones and other times more ligamentous issues that will correct. Yes, in the strict sense of the word, if the dog is full grown and being shown and he is still very cow hocked, it would detract from his rating. Some dogs have a small degree and yes, while noted, it does not detract if all things otherwise are in order. I would not worry about it at this time. Feed him a quality food, give him only appropriate exercise for his age, keep him lean, be careful about supplements, and let him grow. There is no evidence that Vitamin C does squat in dogs, just like in humans. Same for the supplements of glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate. The evidence is anecdotal. I personally never use supplements in dogs unless their is a specific condition and a specific remedy, such as dogs who have EPI conditions. Good luck. A young pup doesnt need Vit c or glucosamine and chondroitin s. Get a good dog food and keep slim and do some research. I had a pup that sat sideways on his rear and the vet she took him to said Oh he has HD cant u see how he Sits? Thats not necessary. This is a pup and hes still forming and growing. All kinds of problems will arise if u add all those extra unneeded and even too much calcium is a no no. Vets dont have the answers. Search and ask these breeders on this site and they will back up the real way to handle ur problem if it is one. Usually is a genetic problem which is transmited by some dog lines more than other. In the last Congress of the SV this topic was included because of the great importance. Breeders should avoid using this dogs but for a pet is no problem. Wish you luck with your puppy. Regards by yellowrose of Texas on 19 December - agreed Soli by carebear on 20 December - I have found that sometimes the cow hocks are caused by the actual hock being quite long - I have a young female around 6 months the same. I have just concentrated on the good diet and strengthening the muscles around that area with swimming and free running in sand obviously not overdoing it. There has been a marked improvement in the last weeks. The condroitin does help a lot! I had a problem with that and this medicin was really helpfull. Try not to let the puppy confined in the kennel, let him play and run by himself, a dog of the same size would help to mantein him active. Give him your best, he will do his best too! My 4 month old female is perfect though orbit vom huhnegrabe daughter. It is a shame the male has this slight fault because otherwise he is fantastic. He is a Pakros son. I am somewhat devastated as I did plan on mating him with my female pup in the future. But maybe its not a good idea anymore. Any suggestions anyone? Dre by VonIsengard on 21 June - Ok, take a deep breath. Cow hocks are not related to HD, first of all. Second, it is not uncommon for young puppies, particularly those with significant rear angulation, to have cowhocks at a young age. Of course, it is by no means desirable, but your puppy is at a VERY awkward stage in his development! You are already doing the right thing walking him in sand and swimming him, and as long as you have him on a very high quality diet there is no need to worry over supplements. He may grow out of it in whole or partially, only time will tell. Can you post a picture? OFA prelims are very reliable if it comes back good than I wouldn't worry anymore, hip dysplasia is strictly genetic so no supplemnt os going to prevent it. My daughter has a showline with cowhocks, actually to look at her in the front and the back, you would think she is a mess, she has the the best hips and elbows of any Gsd I have ever seen even the vet said the best she had ever seen. She has a front leg that looks like she twists it when she runs, yet her prelims looked like text book prefection. There is no relationship whatsoever so just ignore those comments, if you want go ahead and do a prelim, but not because he is cow-hocked. What others have posted is correct, this is very common in puppies and almost certainly will improve with age and excersise I have not seen your videos, my dial-up connection is too slow, better post a picture here? I believe climbing hills and running on uneven ground is supposed to help, don't overdo it obviously. Good luck! This means that hip dysplasia is strictly an inherited disease but environmental factors can modify the expression of the disease. There has not been scientifically documented a single environmental factor that causes or prevents hip dysplasia. Thank you for your inquiry. Keller, D. I would appreciate it if somebody can shed some light on this subject. We have been getting conflicting information and are having problems sorting this all out. We got Hans in the beginning of December when he was two months old. When we picked him up we did not notice that he had cow hock. As he got bigger we started noticing that his rear legs had cow hock. We mentioned this problem to our vet and he recommended that we should take x-rays of his hips to determine the extent of his problem. He said that he had grown too fast going from 21 lbs to 46 lbs in six weeks. He told us that it would be best to cut back on his food so that he did not grow too fast. When we got home, we called the breeder who imported Hans. She said that it is normal for german shepherd puppies to have cow hock when they are young. She said that they out grow that by the time they are a year old. She said that we should wait a while to have Hans xray'd because it was not a good idea to knock him at such a young age. She said for us to bring him back to her to have her take a look at him. Based on all this info we decided to wait and see what would happen with time. Today was Hans first obedience training class. When the trainer saw Hans, he commented that this was one of the worst cow hock he has seen. He also said that his back appeared to look very weak. He said to make sure to have this problem looked at and do what is best for Hans. Has anybody had experience with a dog with cow hock? What is the best course to take for this problem? We have all become attached to him and want to do what is best for him. Thanks in advanced for any information about this problem.

It is their outgoing, affectionate, and eager-to-please demeanor that makes them so qualified to take on all of these jobs and still be the perfect family pet. When it comes to breed standards, the AKC recognizes three official colors for the Labrador: black, chocolate, and yellow. At Hidden Pond Labradors, we understand that everybody has a different preference in mind when they set out to bring one of these incredible dogs into their home. Yellow Labrador Retriever Breeder The yellow Lab is one of the most popular colors, in part due to its photogenic nature. This also makes them excellent show dogs, although any of the three recognized colors can easily achieve Grand Champion status. Coat shades that are classified as yellow range from white to fox red. Like chocolate, the yellow coat is a recessive color that requires both parents to carry and pass on the gene. Yellow Labrador Retrievers, just like every other color, have a stable, amiable temperament. Their trainability and discipline should not be mistaken for lethargy though. Labs are very active dogs that will bring a lot of fun energy to your household. Are you interested in the unconditional love, support, and joy a Lab can bring to your family? Get in touch with Hidden Pond Labradors! Your purchase of one of our yellow Labrador Retriever puppies includes a veterinarian health certificate , first set of vaccinations, one-year written health warranty, and a lifetime placement warranty should you need it. Contact us today to reserve a puppy from our next litter! Tweet on Twitter The yellow Lab is perhaps best known for its role as a guide dog for the blind. Perhaps more than any other color, the yellow Lab has become associated with companionship and families. And also with the show ring. These dogs are often referred to as English Labs. English Lab is simply the American name for the chunkier type of Lab favored in the show ring. Those Labs originally bred especially for hunting are called American Labradors. They are still the same breed, but vary quite a bit in weight and body shape. Their temperaments are also a little different. American Labs tend to be a little calmer and less playful. Travelling with the amazingly tough people who traveled from England and settled there. These early dogs were hunting and fishing companions that split into two different breeds—the large Newfoundland dog, and the St. Later, the St. You probably know that the early Labs were usually black. But there were other, more sinister reasons. Early Yellow Labrador Breeders To begin with, yellow Labs were not liked and many yellow puppies born were probably culled by their breeders. This meant that for a long time, the yellow color was rare. These range from a creamy white, through pale buttermilk yellow, to gold and even the most intense fox red. For many years, the paler dogs were the most sought after. Yellow Lab Temperament So we all agree that yellow Labs are cute. But what are they really like? Of course, just like with humans, Labs form their temperaments from a mix of genetic and environmental factors. It is wise then to pay keen attention to choosing a breeder. After bringing your Lab home, you also have a role to play. Bond with your dog. If they have caring families and well-treated, yellow Labs are more likely to be kind and gentle in return. Yellow Labs are also one of the easiest breeds to train. No wonder they serve as search and rescue, guide dogs, hunting buddies, and many more. Despite all the variety, all these colors are registered with the AKC under the one heading—yellow Lab. Do Yellow Labs Shed? Labradors are well known for their rather excessive shedding tendencies. Yellow Labs shed just like their chocolate or black cousins, although it does tend to show up less on my carpets as the hairs are pale instead of dark. They do however require just as much grooming and coat attention to keep their shedding under control. The furminator is one of our favorites. This video below shows how it can be used. That book planted a desire in me for a yellow Lab like Luath. There is no shortage of yellow Lab heroes in literature and on the screen. No one could forget Marley in the film Marley and Me. And in the UK, possibly the most famous dog of all time is Endal, the highly decorated yellow Lab service dog who died in .My own yellow Lab today is a fox-red girl. But her wonderful yellow lab temperament still shines through. Yellow Lab Rescue What better way to find the yellow Lab of your dreams than to rescue a beautiful yellow Lab from a shelter or Labrador Rescue Society. Rescuing an adult Lab gives a dog a second chance at love and family life. It also gives you a chance to have a dog of your own without going through the challenges of puppy raising. We have an extensive list of Labrador Rescue societies for you to browse linked at the bottom of this article. The good news is that many of these diseases can be avoided by picking puppies whose parents have been health tested clear of each disease. The bad news is that not all Labrador breeders of the purebred yellow Labrador Retriever use these tests. So, before you begin your search for the yellow Lab puppy of your dreams, do check out our important information on finding a good breeder. If you need some help deciding whether to choose a female yellow Lab or a boy puppy, we can help. In terms of temperaments they will be very alike. With more differences between American and English Labs than there are between males and females. Female yellow Labs might need spaying , or to be managed differently during their season. Male Labs can be neutered , but this procedure needs to be weighed up as there are some major downsides. But fundamentally, the choice is just down to personal preference. Our best bet then is to find a breed with as few major health issues as possible. The yellow Lab is an excellent choice in this case. There are, however, at least three main health issues you should be aware of. Yellow Labs are especially prone to the following: Ear troubles: Thanks to those cute floppy ears, ear infections abound with yellow Labs. Joint issues: Despite being pretty strong dogs, yellow Labs are genetically predisposed to joint problems including hip dysplasia. Obesity: Because of their excessively healthy appetite, yellow Labs and Labs generally can become overweight. Absolutely not. Their issues are few compared to other dog breeds. Do make sure you have read up on Labrador health problems before buying a puppy. Choose a breeder that health tests the parents and ask for proof of these checks. This is particularly important to improve the odds of your pup having good hips. If you want to find out more, you can also take a look at our guide to Labrador lifespan. Pictures of Yellow Labs We never get tired of looking at pictures of yellow labs. They come in so many beautiful shades—there is a color to suit everyone One of our most popular articles is a celebration of these beautiful dogs, full of yellow Lab photos in all the different varieties available. Our Labrador names page is packed with suggestions for wonderful puppy names for yellow, red, and golden dogs. You should be able to find what you need. Yellow Lab—a Perfect Companion In many ways, the yellow Lab is simply the perfect companion for any active family with the time and space to enjoy this wonderful breed.

Is your dog's nose dry, cracked, or crusty? If so, it could be a skin condition called dog nose hyperkeratosis. We will explain how to identify this condition, the common causes, and explore the best natural treatment options. The skin on the surface of your dog's nose contains a protein called Keratin; sometimes, Keratin can grow too quickly, causing your pup's nose to become dry and crusty. If left untreated, it can cause significant discomfort for your dog. In the more severe cases, sores and a sizeable crusty growth will appear on your dog's nose. So, now that you know what it is, how do you spot it? When trying to identify it, look out for cracked or dry, rough skin. Severe cases may turn into a horny cracked growth; this growth will be hard to the touch and can stick out as much as half an inch from your dog's nose. If you think you have identified Hyperkeratosis on your dog's nose, you will want to know the underlying cause, as sometimes it can be a symptom of a more serious health condition. You should also note that this condition can also occur on your dogs feet, its called dog paw hyperkeratosis or hard pad disease. There are several possible causes for dog nose hyperkeratosis, and in some cases, if you address the problem, you can stop the disease from returning. If you notice the symptoms when your dog is young, it is often a telltale sign that the disease was inherited. If it is genetic, then there is nothing you can do to stop it from developing, and the best course of action is to make your dog as comfortable as possible. Canine distemper is a relative of the measles, and it can have devastating consequences, including death. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this disease; the best way to avoid it is to vaccinate your dog at a young age. Zinc-deficiency: Young, growing dogs and breeds like Alaskan Malamutes, Siberian Huskies, and Bull Terriers can have problems absorbing zinc. Other signs like redness and hair loss elsewhere on the body usually occur at the same time. The good news is that zinc deficiency can usually be treated by simply supplementing your dog's diet. Pemphigus Foliaceus can occur in both dogs and cats; it is a condition where the animal's immune system attacks its self, particularly in the upper layers of the skin, which can appear as blisters that are easily damaged. Your vet can conduct a biopsy to diagnose this condition, and they will treat it with immune suppressants. Leishmaniasis is a type of parasite that is carried by sandflies. Fortunately, it is extremely rare in the United States. This is perhaps the most common cause. In these cases, the condition will need to be managed rather than cured. Often, there is nothing you can do to stop your dog from getting this condition, but there are some effective treatments for it. Sometimes, moisturizing the dry skin can be an effective treatment for dog nose hyperkeratosis, and we prefer to use a natural moisturizer, like our shea-butter based cbd balm for dogs skin. Keep in mind, once this condition develops, it doesn't tend to go away, meaning you will have to treat it for life. He or she can rule out underlying diseases and provide management recommendations. Do not apply alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or any other product that may cause stinging and irritation. It broke my heart to see her in pain doing what she loved the most. I started feeding her a raw food diet and added high-quality supplements to ensure her nutritional needs were met. Unfortunately, while she loved the food, the limping persisted. My pets are my children. I want the best for them, so when it came to researching what would be best for Biscuit, I went all in and got obsessed. I read literally hundreds of studies, and the more I learned, the more concerned I became about my options. These days she writes professionally about dogs and is a Licensed Veterinary Technician. Her free time is managed by her two beautiful Belgian Tervuren, one crazy cat, and two zebra finches. She has a BA from Cornell University. Daily Paws' Editorial Guidelines Published on January 14, We've all been greeted by a cold, wet nose first thing in the morning. While this isn't the nicest way to wake up, it does represent the usual state of our beloved canines' noses: cool and a little bit damp. Why are dog noses typically wet? The primary benefit to a wet nose is that scent particles stick really well to a moist surface, allowing your dog to pick up lots of smells. Your dog has specialized cells in his nasal cavity that produce a thin mucus to help with scenting. When your dog licks his nose, he is both cleaning it and adding moisture. Dogs also process scents partially through taste using their specialized Jacobsen's organ. Your dog's moist nose also helps to keep him cool via evaporation, just like how we humans sweat. It is a common myth that a dog with a dry nose is sick. Thankfully, this is not true. The vast majority of the time when your dog has a dry nose, it is completely normal and harmless and you do not need to worry. Your dog's nose being dry to the touch simply means that there is less moisture than usual. His nose may also feel warmer than usual when it is dry. This is an illusion due to the lack of moisture think about a heated swimming pool versus the air. Water that is 85 degrees feels cooler to the touch than air that is 85 degrees. When your dog's nose is dry, you are feeling something closer to his normal body temperature. This can cause the surface to dry out. It is just like when your mouth gets dry if you sleep with your mouth open. Exposure to the Elements The sun and wind can both dry out your dog's nose, much like our lips can dry out in the same conditions. Extreme heat and cold can have a similar effect, and lying near a heat vent in the winter can dry your dog's nose out too. This is usually temporary, but prolonged exposure to sun, wind, or extreme temperatures can have detrimental effects. Overactivity If your dog has been exercising hard or is over-excited about something, his nose may become dry due to a combination of not licking his nose, not drinking, and drying from the breeze as he runs around. Extensive exercise can also cause mild dehydration, which will dry out the nose. Age Older dogs are more likely to have dry noses. Brachycephalic Heritage Brachycephalic breeds and mixes such as a bulldog or pug may not be able to lick their noses normally. This can cause the nose to be dry more often than in other dog breeds. Abnormal Reasons Why Your Dog Has a Dry Nose While your dog's dry nose is most likely completely normal, there are some more serious health issues that can cause a dry nose. You can identify most of these problems through the presence of other symptoms and the help of your veterinarian. Dehydration Dehydration happens when your dog doesn't have enough water in his body and can occur on its own or as a complication of another health problem. A dog with mild dehydration may also have skin that is less elastic than usual. Normally when you grab some of your dog's loose skin, it will snap right back into place when released. Dehydrated skin will return to normal position more slowly, or stay tented in severe cases. Other signs of severe dehydration include tacky gums, sunken eyes, and weakness. Sunburn Yes, your dog can get sunburned! Light-colored dogs are especially vulnerable. If your dog has a sunburn, his nose and the skin around it will turn red and peel. Fever A fever is a dangerous elevation of your dog's body temperature normal dog temperature is .A fever can be caused by a variety of infections and illnesses. A dog with a fever will be lethargic and show other signs of illness. Dry Eye or Blocked Tear Ducts Your dog has tear ducts in his eyes that drain excess tears into his nasal passages. If your dog has blocked tear ducts or keratoconjunctivitis sicca KCS or dry eye , his nose will not be receiving that moisture. If your dog has blocked tear ducts, his eyes will be watery and drain down the side of his face. Less commonly, he may sneeze or have watery eyes. Canine Distemper This is a highly contagious and often fatal viral disease. Exact symptoms may vary, but affected dogs get extremely sick. Thankfully, canine distemper can be prevented by keeping your dog or puppy up to date on his distemper vaccination. Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis This genetic condition causes crusting and cracks on the nose. It most commonly affects Labrador retrievers and shows up between 6 months and 2 years of age. Thankfully these dogs are otherwise totally healthy. There is a genetic test for hereditary nasal parakeratosis , so responsible breeders can easily avoid producing this condition in their puppies. Idiopathic Nasodigital Hyperkeratosis This is the overgrowth of keratin on the nose. It usually occurs in older dogs, and brachycephalic breeds, but cocker spaniels may also be predisposed. The nose will look rough and may appear pointy in places. Hyperkeratosis does not usually cause other issues, but can be uncomfortable. Affected dogs may also have a buildup of keratin on their paw pads. The cause is unknown. Autoimmune Disorders Autoimmune diseases that can cause a dry nose include discoid lupus erythematosus DLE and pemphigus. Dogs with DLE will have sores around the nose and changes in pigmentation color , and the nose itself will often become totally smooth and lose its cobblestone appearance. The surface of the nose may also bleed. Dogs with pemphigus frequently have lesions all over their bodies. Leishmaniasis This disease is caused by a parasite transmitted by biting sand flies. The cutaneous form of leishmaniasis causes hyperkeratosis overgrowth of keratin, or thickening and hardening of the tissues on the nose and paw pads as well as pigment changes and a brittle hair coat. Dogs usually get the visceral form of this disease and will show general signs of illness including but not limited to: lethargy, anorexia, vomiting , diarrhea, nose bleeds, and soreness. Dog Dry Nose Treatment and Prevention Most of the time when your dog's nose is dry it will resolve quickly on its own. But if your dog has a chronically dry nose, there are some things you can do to keep his sniffer moist and healthy. Make sure that he always has access to clean, fresh water to stay hydrated. For light-colored dogs, you can apply a dog-safe sunscreen to his nose and muzzle to protect him from sunburn. Apply a dog-safe nose balm to his nose to provide extra hydration. These products are available through your veterinarian, pet supply stores, or online. For dogs with idiopathic nasal hyperkeratosis, your veterinarian can trim off the excess keratin. He or she may also dispense a steroid or antibiotic cream if your dog's nose has fissures and cracks to help them heal. Soaking the nose with a warm, moist towel and then applying petroleum jelly will help to keep the nose nice and soft. If your dog has other symptoms in addition to a dry nose, he should be seen by a veterinarian promptly. Treatment will depend on which underlying disease is present. Was this page helpful? What Are Good Distractions? Not only does something positive like cookies take their mind off having something done to them, they soon equate Nose Butter with treats. That hurt! It's not that your dog loathes Nose Butter we hope not , they probably DO dislike being held tightly. Being held in a WWE head-lock is a huge trigger for most dogs. If possible, allow them to stand while you apply Nose Butter and be quick Additionally, flat-faced dogs will fight and struggle to protect their already hindered ability to breathe. Toy breeds know they are small and will often put up an unbelievable tussle to get away when they feel over-powered. Dogs are often triggered by being held tightly. This may come from when they were puppies. Puppy play involves a lot of wrestling and play-fight. It's not fun for dogs or us to have siblings pile on, hold us down and make us feel helpless. I'm looking at my three sisters. Stay relaxed and positive and be very generous with treats and your dog will soon enjoy, or tolerate, Nose Butter time. If you stop using Nose Butter, the dryness and crust will probably come back. Nose Butter can help heal the dry nose, but doesn't cure the condition. Yes, it's semantics, but it helps make it clear. When our hands are really cracked and dry we apply lotion to get them in shape, but we can't slather lotion on our hands once and be moisturized for life. Like cutting your dog's toenails.Nose Butter is part of their health care regimen. Customer Reviews.

It commonly occurs anywhere from eight weeks to six months. So, any German Shepherd parent would know that these adorable dogs have floppy ears when they are just puppies. However, stronger cartilage will be developed as you give them the proper nutrients. It might mostly occur as a response to your call or noise in the surrounding area. It can be a result of poor nutrition or slow development. Your German Shepherd needs abundant vitamin D, calcium, and protein. Lacking these nutrients in their diet will result in weak cartilage. Switch to better food or visit the vet for a checkup. They are still incredibly cute, anyway! If you want to ensure that you have a pooch with perky ears, make sure to look for parents with standing ears. Do all German Shepherd ears stand up? Even if you have already, you can know whether your pooch will have floppy or perky ears when it grows. It can compromise their health and adversely affect their growth, including strengthening the cartilage. Regular checkups and fecal exams can help prevent or abate that problem. Your vet can give your dog deworming medicines to see that your growing furry friend is free from parasites. Any traumatic injury to the ears can cause permanent damage and prevent the ears from growing strong enough to stand. It can be caused by a child pulling its ears and rough play among its littermates. Regularly monitor your pup and keep anyone from playing with its ears when they are in its developmental stage. But there are things you can do to help it get strong and healthy ears. These steps will also protect the ears from possible damage. Get high-quality food for your puppy to boost their development. Cheap foods usually have more fillers that contain negligible nutrients. Keep the puppy away and safe from other puppies that play bite with their ears. Educate your children and everyone else at home on how to handle the puppy carefully and gently. Giving your puppy chew toys will give their head, jaw, and surrounding muscles some exercise. It can lead to better ear development. Make sure to buy durable ones, as German Shepherd pups are stronger than you think! Clean their ears gently if you notice dirt. Keep your dog happy! A happy dog is a healthy dog. It will have fewer or no health problems if you keep the dog fit. Using the tape too early or during its growing stage can harm its natural development. However, the 7th to 8th month might be a little too late. But that may not be true for all, as some German Shepherds are just built differently. Their looks come second when you experience how good of a companion they can make. But the young ones carry cute floppy ears that eventually stand up. Some take longer. Remember that floppy ears do not affect their health negatively. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Aug 18, Share German Shepherds have a distinctive look that includes alert, erect ears. For most pups, the ear cartilage begins to harden around week 20, or when the pup is finished teething. At that point, it can take up to 20 weeks for the ears to stand up fully. This can vary by the individual, however. Like human ears, dog ears are made of cartilage. As they grow and gain nutrition, German Shepherds develop stronger and stronger cartilage to support those ears. Typically, puppies at weeks will have floppy ears that occasionally stand up but quickly fall back down. Around week 20, or 5 months, your pup is done teething and its ears will begin to harden and stand. Your vet may have some suggestions to help the process along. If your pup reaches 8 months and still has floppy ears, the chance of them standing on their own is slim. Some breeders try to breed for larger ears, leading to ears that are too heavy to stand up. If strong, alert ears are important to you, be sure to look for a pup with parents that have erect ears. If the ears sustain trauma during that time, it can cause permanent damage to the cartilage. If your puppy gets parasites, it can impact healthy development, which includes the hardening of its ear cartilage. Be sure to take your puppy to the vet regularly and have routine fecal exams to check for worms and other parasites. Your vet can recommend an appropriate deworming protocol for your growing puppy and treat parasites if they occur. However, if you want your puppy to have strong, alert ears, you can help the process along in a number of ways. In an effort to move ear development along, some owners will add supplements like calcium. Chew toys are also good for teething and keeping your puppy occupied. German Shepherds are strong, even as pups, so be sure to choose solid, durable chew toys that are safe and appropriate for your puppy. It should only be used as a last resort, however. If you use tape too early, it can hinder natural development. That said, if you wait until the seventh or eighth month, it may be too late to help. Glue the ends of the popsicle stick to the tape on both ears, horizontally. Once a week, remove the popsicle stick, foam, and tape. If the ears stand on their own, leave them. Related Reads:. Especially during the first six months, be extra careful not to aggressively clean their ears. They will be more prone to lesions in the ear cartilage at this time. Yet it would be understandable if you are reading this and feel dismay or even horror. How can that possibly be a good thing? But understand we are not talking about doing anything harmful or invasive. The techniques you are about to read about will not harm or hurt your German Shepherd puppy at all. They will simply support the ears to grow into the upright position without having to work so hard to get there — or stay there. You want to give your pup enough time to try to do this naturally. But you also want to intervene before the cartilage in the ears starts to harden usually around seven to eight months old , leaving the ear flaps in the wrong position. You will need the following supplies: Some type of surgical tape NOT duct tape or any super-adhesive tape. Foam roller inserts or foam pipe insulation cut to size. Two plain popsicle sticks or unsharpened pencils. Wrap the surgical tape around the outside of the ear to hold the insert in place. Be prepared for your puppy to find a way to paw off this strange contraption several times before they finally get used to it and forget about it. You want to leave this in place for a week and then remove it to check the ear position. You may notice the ears start to stand a little straighter week by week. But if you see them flop over again, you need to re-tape them until they are strong enough to stand up on their own. Ear gluing Another option you can try is puppy ear gluing. This is actually not nearly as awful as it sounds and is far easier to do than the ear taping method. Another perk of puppy ear gluing over taping is that you are not going to cut off any air circulation to the inner ear canal. The key is to pick some kind of fabric glue do NOT use super glue or super-bonding glue that may not come off. What you need to do for this method is to add a dab of glue to the outside of the inner ear flap about two-thirds of the way down from the ear tip point. Then press the two ear flaps together for 30 seconds to allow the glue to set. Wherever possible, if you have multiple dogs in your household, try to keep your German Shepherd puppy from playing rough games with the other dogs. Rowdy playtime can easily cause the ears to separate. The glue will wear off on its own after a while and you can observe if the ears are able to remain upright and erect when this occurs. If you need to, keep reapplying the glue until the ears are strong and stable to remain in the correct position without glue. It may take a few weeks or longer for this to occur. Do not worry if the ears are not in a perfect position. As long as they stay upright, the inner muscles and tissues will naturally self-correct over time. Surgery Certain situations may even require surgical implants, like when ear cartilage damage occurs. Massage the Ears Massaging the ears helps by increasing blood flow to the ears, helping your form strong ear: Muscles Cartilage Chew Toys Chew toys are not only great for keeping your pup occupied, but they can also be great sources of collagen. This will help build strong ear cartilage capable of holding the ears in the upright position. Chew toys also work the ear muscles. This will strengthen the surrounding tissues. This is especially true for dogs prone to health issues, like German Shepherds. Foods rich in nutrients like calcium and glucosamine will help your dog form strong and healthy ears. These nutrients are vital for developing sturdy ear cartilage. Stimulation Dogs communicate a lot with their ears. Just think of German Shepherds that are alert and focused on something, like an odd noise they heard outside. Chances are, their ears will be standing erectly. Stimulation like this encourages the use of the ear muscles. There are two areas where you will definitely want to pay closer attention. Bath time and during playtime with other dogs. Keeping water out of the ears will reduce infections and head shaking. Using a headband is an easy way to do this, and can also prevent injuries when playing with other dogs. What causes German Shepherds to have floppy ears? The most common ones include breeding issues, teething, cartilage development issues, trauma, and poor nutrition or hygiene. Breeding Pointy German Shepherd ears are among the top distinct features of the breed. Unfortunately, this can sometimes lead to improper breeding practices. Teething Floppy ears are a common occurrence when the dog is teething. Developing cartilage German Shepherd puppies are born with floppy ears. As their bodies develop, their ear cartilage and muscles also develop up to the point that they are able to support the weight of the ears, keeping them upright. German Shepherd ears typically start to perk up when the dog is about 6 to 10 weeks old. They can also sometimes flop back down while the dog is teething only to stand up again. Trauma Trauma is a common reason for floppy ears in German Shepherds. Physical trauma caused by an accident or injury to the ears can cause one or both of them to drop. If you suspect trauma, visit your vet to address any wounds and prevent infection. However, their ears need to be kept clean in order to prevent infections that could cause their ears to drop. Dogs not getting enough calcium and vitamin D during puppyhood may have trouble keeping their ears up as their skeletal support structure is not developed properly. They should be well-aligned, symmetrical namely just as wide as they are tall , and carried upright. However, not all dogs will have perfectly standard ears and some may have ears that are too large, too small, too high, too low, or just ears that point in the wrong direction. In fact, there are at least 12 different German Shepherd ear shapes , each with their own distinct characteristics. German Shepherd ears will usually stand up at around 4 months of age. But this can happen as early as the 1-month mark, or as late as the 6-month mark when teething finishes. But more than anything, they tell you how the dog is feeling at any given time. The ears really are the window to the soul for not just GSDs, but all dogs. During this time, more calcium is being directed to the growing teeth, and away from the ear cartilage. When teething is over, and more calcium can be directed back to the ears, they will most likely stand back up again. This is especially true if your pup has sustained an ear injury in the past, and broke the ear cartilage as a result. German Shepherd puppies are especially prone to this during the first 6 to 8 months, since their ears are still developing. These injuries can occur during rowdy play with other dogs and people, or from excessive scratching. This will help their ears develop faster and stronger, and will help prevent ear injuries in the future. But in most cases, if you act fast enough, even the floppiest German Shepherd ears are capable of being corrected. Ear development can vary from puppy to puppy. If they stand up when the puppy is scared or excited or when they bark, you can expect to see fully erect years by the time they are six months old. Will my German Shepherd mix ears stand up? Depending on the genes they inherited, your German Shepherd mix may have erect ears or not. You can support their ear development by giving them chew toys, massaging the base of their ears, and giving them calcium and vitamin D supplements. The ear flap is the outermost ear and is often called the pinna plural is pinnae. A dog has two pinna — one for each ear. Each pinna can work independently of the other, which is part of what gives dogs such keen hearing. This is the same reason all German Shepherd puppies are born with their ears down and floppy. It takes time for the cartilage to form, thicken and then harden into the characteristic erect ear position of the German Shepherd. The ears might pop up as early as four weeks old only to flop back down around four months old. Not only is the cartilage in the outer ears still forming and hardening, but the many muscles, tendons, ligaments, and tissues that help the ears move and function are still getting coordinated as well. This is why it is wise not to get concerned about ear position or stability until after your German Shepherd puppy has finished teething. There is just too much growing going on to expect your little puppy to look like a full-grown adult dog yet. This video gives you some unique tips to help their ears get stronger and stand up without human assistance like some of the tips you read about in this article. I get a lot of emails about taping German Shepherd puppy ears. The majority of these emails come from people who are jumping the gun and worrying too much. By that, I mean their pups are 3 or 4 months old and they are starting to panic because their puppy's ears are not standing. I tell these people that they need patience, they need to wait until their pup has finished teething. I caution these people not to jump the gun and tape the dog's ears too early or in the wrong way. I know people who have screwed their dog's ears up for life by doing this. I have had puppy customers who go ballistic on me and panic. So I issue a word of caution here. With that said, the other side of the spectrum of taping ears is something that many people do not take seriously until it's too late. When ears are taped at 7 and 8 months, there is very little chance of it working. This is an unfortunate fact of life. German Shepherd puppy ears can come up between 8 weeks and 6 months. If they are not up when the dog is through teething this varies from dog to dog but in general between 16 weeks and 20 weeks of age , I tell my puppy customers to get very interested in their ears. While it's not time to panic, it is time to sit up and take notice. The first thing to do is make sure that your puppy is in good health. This means no intestinal parasites. Take a stool sample to your vet to have it analyzed. It's also important to make sure the pup is getting good quality food. We feed and recommend a raw diet but if you do feed a commercial diet, I strongly recommend researching all the options available and feeding the highest-quality food you can afford. View our list of all-natural kibble alternatives. In fact, a lot of times, a pup will have both ears up and all of a sudden, they will come back down when the pup starts to teeth. Many owners panic when this happens. But not to worry, I have never seen a pup whose ears did not go back up when this happens. If a pup does not have his ears up by 5 months, I strongly recommend that you get involved with taping your dog's ears. Use the thin white surgical tape the kind that's paper-thin and tears easily. The 3M Micropore tape, 2" wide, works well. I like to use women's hair rollers. Take the plastic out of them and just use the foam. Wrap the ear around the foam and tape them into a tight roll. In a vertical position. Take a popsicle stick and attach it to the top part of both ears. In a horizontal position. The pup is going to tear the tape or stick off the ears several times. The key is to continue to re-tape the ears. Sooner or later, the pup will forget the tape and ignore it. About once a week, take the tape off and see if the ears will stand on their own. Continue to re-tape until the ears stand. If the ears are not up by 7 or 8 months, they are not going to come up. The ears should look like this once taped. The same dog with ears now up. I have seen ears that did not stand, which in my opinion would have stood had they been taped. So this process is not something to take lightly. I also need to say that many ears will be a little weak right after taping but with time, they will strengthen. So when an ear does not stand perfectly after taping don't panic. Just have patience and see what happens. You will really not have an idea exactly what you have until the pup is 12 months old. When ears do not stand, there are ear implants that can be surgically added. I have no experience with this and do not know anything about them. If you are unlucky enough to have a dog whose ears will not stand, I would point you toward a vet that has some experience in this area. I don't think it's something that normal small animal vets know how to do well. In my opinion, too young to tape. The material to use to tape German Shepherd Ears The pup with its ears taped I prefer taping German Shepherd Dogs ears after the dog has finished teething. This usually means the dog is older than 4 - 6 months. Maybe waiting another month would have been a better idea for this puppy.