how much do german shepherd puppies sleep

How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the bathroom at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialization Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the yard Besides the gnomes and questionable yard furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own yard is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and yard to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favorite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. Gundog expert Jayne Coley summarises the early training routine that she followed with her own young labrador, Trade. Register for our newsletter To continue reading this content please register for our newsletter. You have to adapt your training to suit the type of puppy you have. The steps below summarise the training routine that I have followed with my young dog, Trade, who has an easy-going temperament. I began to train him properly in the New Year when he was 9 — 10 months old, though I usually wait until the shooting season is over when I have time to do a little each day on a regular basis. Step 1: Foundations By the age of 9 — 10 months, Trade had been toilet trained, knew his name and came back when I called him. He had been well socialised and behaved in company on a lead, was used to going out in my vehicle and had learned to swim. Trade has never been chastised for carrying something he should not, e. I then place the item out of reach. Crucially, by this age we had built up a good bond before formal training began. Step 2: Heelwork It was so wet and muddy at home so I started training on the patio and in our yard where the pup is restricted to a certain area and there are no distractions. We began with heelwork on the lead. To keep the exercise interesting, I walked in straight lines, did figures of eight, included the occasional tight turn and altered my pace. This all helped to keep Trade focused on what we were doing. If he didn't sit immediately, I repeated the command whilst pushing his bottom down with my left hand. Once confident with this routine, I put a lightweight collar on him and progressed to walking to heel off the lead, using my hands to encourage him to keep his head up and concentrate on me, when necessary. If he did move, I calmly walked up to him and, holding his collar, took him back to the exact spot he moved from in a quiet but positive manner. I slowly built up the distance until I could walk around him in a huge circle. Once he did this perfectly, I introduced the recall. Instead of always walking back to him, I would call him back to me, encouraging him to come straight to my hands which were cupped gently in front of my hips. Once I was happy with this, I began to mix up heelwork with sit and stay, and recall. When he didn't move, I quietly picked the dummy up myself. Gradually — over several days — I built on this until I could throw a couple of dummies, one at a time, over and around him and he remained steady. It is always important to lift the pup's top lip out of the way when you put a dummy in his mouth. Trade was reluctant to do this at first, but with patience and perseverance over several days, he accepted it. Slowly, I built on this until I could walk away backwards the length of the lead and call him to me, concentrating on perfecting a good delivery, using my hands to encourage him to bring the dummy right to me with his head held nice and high. Step 6: Retrieving Next, we worked on being sent for a retrieve. I then bent down and pointed my right hand towards the dummy whilst looking at the top of his head to make sure he was looking past my hand at it, before saying his name positively and at the same time letting go of one end of the lead so that he instinctively ran forward and picked the dummy. Initially, I sat back on my heels, which encouraged him to run straight back to me. Slowly we built on this until the lead was no longer needed. Sometimes I would send him for the dummy, sometimes I'd pick it up myself, or I'd walk him to heel in the opposite direction before sending him. On other occasions, I would stand well back from Trade and throw a dummy over his head, call him to me and then send him for the dummy from my position. I like to vary things as this keeps him interested and wondering what I am going to do next. He was at first a little unsure, so I repeated it in a lighter tone, to which he responded. In return, I praised him quietly. Always remember, training a dog is like building a house — it is imperative that the foundations are put down properly, otherwise, sooner or later, cracks will appear. Keep it light and encouraging when you praise, and low and gruff when you scold, so your puppy knows the difference. Especially if you have a boisterous puppy. Keep everything calm and relaxed, and do things in your time. Print Early obedience first step to better hunting dog Labrador puppies start out sweet and innocent. All you want to do is cuddle up with your pup and love them! And you should! But rest assured the innocence will not last. As your pup gains confidence and courage, they will begin to test you in many ways. That is why you must obedience train your Labrador puppy. Early obedience training is key to establishing borders and boundaries that will help your puppy grow, learn, and adjust with a good attitude. There is no shortcut to doing this, just use the name often when you talk to your puppy. Over time, the pup will start to respond to the name. Socialization, while not technically obedience training, is the single most important thing you can teach your puppy during the first few months of life. If you are not sure how to do this, refer to this post. Tools needed to obedience train Labrador puppy You will need a few tools to teach your puppy obedience. The products I recommend I believe are a good value or good investment for anyone working to train or maintain training on their retriever. When possible, I include links to the product. Some of these links may be Amazon or other affiliate links in which I am paid a small commission at no cost to you. All opinions and recommendations are my own. Collar — You should purchase a size appropriate collar for your new puppy. You may have to buy new ones as your dog grows, but it is important for your puppy to get used to wearing a collar early on. A simple nylon adjustable collar works great. Chain collar — If your puppy is more than a few months old, a chain or prong collar is extremely helpful in teaching obedience, but they must be used correctly. For more information on how to put a chain collar on your dog correctly refer to this video. A longer lead, called a check cord, is also useful for teaching HERE and retrieving. You can learn more about that here. Heeling stick optional — While optional, a heeling stick can be especially helpful in teaching basic obedience. Treats — Treats are good for teaching very young puppies. I use treats for pups under 12 weeks of age, but treats should be discontinued rather quickly. When to start basic puppy obedience training Obedience training can and should start within the first couple weeks of having your puppy home. Young puppies are ready and willing to learn and teaching obedience to a young puppy is much easier than teaching it to an older dog. How long should obedience sessions be? Most labs do not enjoy obedience training. For this reason, we aim to keep obedience sessions short, especially if your dog is under 4-months of age. Five to ten minutes of obedience a day can work wonders. Especially if you are consistent. Using rewards or praise to teach obedience Many people like to use treats or rewards for obedience training. And this can work, especially with very young dogs. But for hunting dogs, over the long-term treats can become a problem. We do not want our dogs, or the dogs we train to be obedient only because they are getting a food reward. We want them to be obedient because they understand their place in the family and respect the owners. To get these lasting results, we use praise words and petting and a reward that retrievers live for — retrieves! Well-timed praise is a particularly important part of dog training. A message that it is okay to ignore me the first 9 times! This simply means that after a few minutes of formal obedience training, we release the dog with an OKAY command and that means they can run around and be a dog. We then throw a bumper or plug a for the dog to retriever. We do this a few times with a lot of excitement and allow the dog to retrieve the bumper. For retriever breeds, this is often more effective than a food reward. Be careful that you are not letting your puppy get into bad habits with retrieving. For instance, if your puppy often goes out to retrieve the bumper but then runs away with it, or picks it up and drops it, do not continue doing retrieves. While retrieving is a reward for many Labs, it is not an excuse to engage in behaviors that are not going to be acceptable in the field. If you want to learn more about how to properly teach your Lab to retrieve, check out How can I teach my retriever puppy to fetch? Introduction to leash and nylon collar The very first step for any puppy obedience is to introduce your puppy to a regular collar and leash. This should be done in two separate steps, first the collar and then the leash. Introduce the collar by putting a nylon type collar on your puppy. This is normal and you should not react to it. Introducing the leash is a little different. We like to do this outside. After a few sessions of this introduction, you can start holding the leash by the end and walking with the puppy. When the puppy tries to run or walk away, hold tight to the leash, and just let the puppy get used to the resistance. Some puppies have a hard time with this and will growl or whine and whip themselves around at the pressure, but most will not. Remain calm and after a few sessions the puppy should get used to the resistance of the leash. Do not allow the puppy to pull you around. That will make for some bad behaviors that you will need to correct later. If you cannot control your puppy with just a regular collar and leash, you may need to move to a chain or prong collar to keep control. What commands to teach Lab puppy There are only four basic obedience commands that you need to teach your young puppy. Remember when it comes to commands, less is more. OKAY — this is a release command, basically tells your dog were done training, go be a dog. As your puppy grows and learns more, there are some other commands that may be needed, but for puppies I like to start with just the four above. Dog training requires consistency Before you start with obedience training, I want to make a note about the importance of consistency. Obedience training only works if you are consistent. This means that when you say a command, you expect the puppy to perform the command, and are willing to take steps to make the puppy perform the command. If you do not remain consistent in this expectation, you will confuse your dog and get poor results from your training. You and your family must be consistent! How to start obedience training Lab puppy The first command you want to start teaching your puppy is SIT. This is quite easy to teach with a small puppy but gets a little tougher as they get bigger. Then release the puppy with the OKAY command. Repeat this process several times, then stop. If your puppy is weeks old, you can repeat this training several times a day for only a couple minutes at a time. This will be a two-person job for a little while. The other person will put the food down a few feet from the puppy. Then release the puppy to eat saying OKAY. As the pup learns and understands the command better, you will no longer need a second person to hold the puppy. You must be a little careful here because young puppies do not have great bladder control and making them wait, even a few seconds, can mean the difference between an accident and them doing their business outside. But this is a great way to teach impulse control and manners to your puppy. I do not want to have to fight for a position by the door. You can usually start working on this within a week or two of teaching SIT. A great way to teach this command to young puppies is to use two people and sit in a long hallway, one at each end. Take turns calling your puppy with a HERE command. A toy or treat can often help the process. Let your puppy run around a bit but hold onto the end of the cord. Occasionally, call you puppy with a HERE command. It can be helpful at first to crouch down to encourage the puppy to run towards you. Then release the puppy with an OKAY command. Do this a few more times and repeat daily until the puppy is coming to you without you needing to pull the cord. It is also the command most of our clients struggle with the most. Mostly because they are using the wrong tool for the job. For heeling work, it is important that you work with a chain or prong collar. This will give you more control and stop the pulling and surging that many people struggle with. Using a chain or prong collar and a six-foot leash, start walking your puppy at your side. If your puppy is young, be sure to use a puppy chain collar which is smaller than chain collars for adult dogs. And make sure that you are putting it on correctly! An alternate tool to a chain collar and leash is the Wonder or Command Lead. These work great for teaching HEEL. As you start walking use gently tugs on the chain collar with the command HERE to keep your puppy at your side. If your puppy surges or pulls ahead, simply make a degree turn and start walking the other direction giving a sharp, upward tug on the chain collar and saying HEEL several times until the dog is back in a heeling position. Many of our clients have told us they never left their driveway the first few days! But if you are patient and consistent, your dog will quickly learn that if they want to go for a walk, they need to stay at your side. If you want to learn and progress in more obedience work, check out these obedience drills for retrievers. Final thoughts on how to teach your lab puppy obedience Teaching your puppy obedience may take a lot of patience, time and work, but it is such an important thing to do. You will never regret the time! A well-mannered dog is such a joy to be around both in the home and in the field. How to obedience train Labrador puppy. Labrador Retriever pups are working dogs. This means they live to please you for a treat. The more you engage them with different puppy training behaviors the happier they will be. Of course, Labs will be Labs, and this means that dogs do dog things unless they are trained to follow your expectations. Potty training your puppy is just the beginning of you making clear expectations for your Lab. Puppy training from long leash training to potty training, to not nipping is discussed in greater detail along with clear, easy to follow videos at www. But we will give you an expert training tip summary below. For this reason, you need to become an expert on puppy training. Contact us for a discount on the Puppy Trained Right positive reinforcement training program. Expose your puppy to as many different people and situations possible. Teach dog to dog manners when required. Use Positive Reinforcement. Allow for Play with Other Puppies. Play with other Lab Puppies not only allows your pup to get some exercise it is a form of puppy socialization. Bond with your Puppy. Once a strong bond is formed your Lab Puppy will want to please you even more. Potty Train Right Away. Learn how Dogs Learn. Training a Lab puppy is easy if you understand how to go about it. Give your Lab Puppy Play time to Explore. Labs need this as part of their natural development. Spend more time with your puppy when young. This is the time when your expectations should be clearly outlined and can decrease as she gets older. Begin Training day 1. This happens weather or not you intend it to. Every action and reaction is something your puppy uses to form new habits. So ignoring them jumping up as an 8 week old puppy is training them to jump up and will be much more difficult to un-train once they are 70 lbs. Relax and make learning fun. Your pup needs you happy and enjoying yourself! Use Positive Training Methods because they work. This means reward what you desire. Ensure most Experiences are Positive. Imagine a training session of No, No, No, No! Expose them to as Many Human Situations possible. One cause is that there was not adequate socialization with different men. Be Patient. You are building an amazing K9 personality. The window is between 8 and 20 weeks old. Make the most of it. The better your Lab is socialized the happier they will be. Anxiety in dogs comes from many things. The more things your dog is comfortable with the less chance for anxiety and therefore the happier they are. Prepare yourself, your family and your home before your puppy comes home. It is too late once you meet your puppy as simply interacting with her is training. Allow for Safe Experiences both in the home and outside. Seek professional trainers to help guide you when faced with a problem. Be consistent. Clear expectations are easiest to learn. Focus on Guiding not controlling. Best Start Training or Training Classes are beneficial for both you and your puppy. Expect Success. We tend to move in the direction we believe we will travel. Reward the Behaviors you want to see even something as simple as 4 paws on the ground if you are trying to train your Lab not to jump up on you. Become Well informed. You are teaching a skill like reading that takes clear expectations and builds upon last session. Lab Puppies need constant supervision either human, a crate, a fenced area or a baby gate across a doorway. Encourage a soft mouth. Keep your training up or it will be forgotten. Begin Walking on a Loose Leash Right away. This is always easier for your Lab when they are 12 lbs not 70lbs. Change direction before the leash tightens so they are followers not leaders. This is much easier to train before it happens than correct. Allow alone time for your Lab. Know when to end a training session. End training before your puppy quits. Make time for a few shorter training Sessions. Three fifteen minute sessions are better than one 45 min one. Teach your Lab to respond to their name. Teach your Labrador basic obedience before tricks-come, sit, stay, down, leave it. Have all humans learn the commands and be consistent. Ignore undesirable behaviors. Ignoring includes not saying no, bad dog, touching your dog or making eye contact. Find rewards that your Retriever loves and use them when you have breakthrough training moments. Adjust your expectations as your Lab puppy matures, the older more experienced the higher the expectation. Set Realistic Expectations. Minimize distractions when you begin training. Be aware of your Body Language, Labradors pick up cues from you. Be aware of your leash tension. A tight leash says anxiety from the handler. Know when to get Help .Have fun! Understand that Labs do Lab things. Make them work for food and treats. Exercise your Retriever properly for both intensity and duration. Learn some exercise games Labs love. Give lots of repetition. Stop before they get bored. Establish a Pattern by Praising. Redirect undesired behavior. Accept partial actions at first and gradually increase your expectations. When treats end Verbal treats and chin scratches rule. They will know. Enjoy your well balanced purebred Lab puppy for many years. Purebred Lab Retrievers, are they easier to train? The answer to that is definitely maybe! Not all purebreds are bred for intelligence. For example, if a Labrador Retriever breeder chooses to breed their dogs for a certain look then they may overlook intelligence as one of the important characteristics in order to get a specific Lab look. We however breed for intelligence, health and temperament. So in our case, yes, our Purebred Lab Puppies are easier to train than many because we choose the parents and their puppies specifically for their smarts!

History Image Credit: dendoktoor, Pixabay As mentioned above, both dogs are descendants of the Old English Bulldog, whose history is disputed. Some believe the dog was a large, Mastiff-like creature used in combat by the ancient Greeks, while others say they descended from war dogs used by tribes native to the Caucasus Mountains. Regardless of where the breed came from, we know it was used for bull baiting in England as early as the 17th century C. Bull baiting is a terrible sport in which dogs try to bring a bull down by its nose and pin it to the ground; fortunately, humanity eventually came to its senses and banned the practice. After the end of bull baiting, some Old English Bulldogs were taken to the newly discovered American continent, where they were put to work on farms. They herded livestock, protected ranches, and most notably, hunted feral hogs. The Old English Bulldogs that stayed behind in the United Kingdom were primarily kept as pets, and as a result, they no longer needed the large bodies and ferocious temperaments that made them such fearsome bullfighters. Appearance American Bulldogs are much larger than their British cousins, which is in large part because they had to be big enough to take down wild hogs. These pups can weigh as much as pounds and are incredibly strong. English Bulldogs, on the other hand, have primarily been bred to be adorable. Their noses are so short that they often have trouble breathing, and they have precious little stamina. Both breeds tend to be bow-legged with broad chests and have wrinkly faces, but English Bulldogs have more loose skin. Their coats come in various colors, with multi-colored markings on their faces. Temperament Image Credit: , Pixabay Temperament is another area in which the two dogs can differ wildly. On the other hand, the English Bulldog is a born couch potato. However, both are friendly and eager to spend time with their masters, and both have stubborn streaks a mile wide. Health This is one area where their divergent breeding practices are readily apparent. American Bulldogs were bred to be hard workers, whereas modern British Bulldogs were bred mainly to be cute. This emphasis on adorability has cost them in terms of their health, however. Simply put, English Bulldogs have horrific health issues—so much so that an entirely new breed, the Olde English Bulldogge, was developed to address their problems. While their stubby noses are adorable, they make it harder for them to breathe, and the breed is prone to respiratory problems. Similarly, their little round bodies have joint and skeletal issues and are likely to suffer from obesity and cancer. They often suffer from hip dysplasia and other joint ailments and can get fat if not properly exercised. Overall, American Bulldogs are much healthier dogs. However, both breeds need the wrinkles on their faces cleaned regularly, or infections can occur. It is a cross between the American Bulldog and the English Bulldog. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. His mother was a white English Bulldog, and his father was a fawn American Bulldog. He is 1 year and 6 months old in this picture, weighing 60 lbs. Stitch, as most Bulldogs are, is very stubborn and headstrong. If you give him an inch, expect to be taken a mile. I got Stitch when he was about 12 weeks old and he was the most terrible dog I'd ever encountered, but with a lot of time and intensive training he is the best dog I've ever owned and I will never own any other type of dog. He loves pineapple and oranges, he hates cigarette smoke and cheap beer—yeah, he only drinks Warsteiner and Red Stripe.He is mostly white, with brindle patches on his head, arm, back and legs. He has tons of black spots under his belly. His mother is a lbs English purebred, while his father, an American, weighs just under 80 lbs. We were told by the breeder, who owned both dogs, that his grandfather weighed 90 lbs.!! At 5 months, Rocko already weighs 50 lbs. He is very playful and extremely affectionate. He loves to cuddle and be held like a baby. He loves to take baths , and if I don't close the door, he might just surprise me by jumping in! He is intelligent, loyal and VERY stubborn. He only does what he wants and nothing more. He wants everyone's attention and plays well with kids and other animals. His "brother" is a Chow mix and they play morning, noon, and night though Rocko needs to take naps in between! He eats too much, tears up my house, chews on my shoes, and occasionally plays too rough, but at the end of the day, when I am lying in bed with him snoring at my side, it's all worth it! Sitting in the chair and at 10 months old he weighed 90 pounds. He got up to , but broke his hip when he bit a moving truck. He is fully recovered now and weighs in at 90 pounds. He still wants to bite the tires of anything that moves! We got Amos from a family in Corning, NY, who had a four-puppy litter. We brought him home when he was 7 weeks old and he just turned 9 months and weighs in at 85 lbs I walk him miles a day , weather permitting, and he never wants to stop. When we get inside he promptly drinks a lot of water. He goes through almost 2 gallons of water a day. He is a gentle giant and afraid of his own shadow. He would never hurt a human being since it is not in his nature. That being said, he is an excellent guard dog and very frightful to look at. His bark sounds like a Mastiff's and is deafening. He was extremely easy to train and has never had an accident indoors. He loves to play with the laser light to exhaustion and loves to rip and shred stuffed animals. Squeaker toys end up destroyed in minutes, sometimes seconds, and he proudly displays the internal squeaker to you in his dripping mouth. He will eat almost anything and is simply a joy to behold. Everyone who sees him falls in love and wants to adopt him. We love Amos dearly and he is a welcome addition to our family. White, fawn, piebald, brindle, bi-color, tri-color Suitable for: Guarding duties, active lifestyles, large living spaces Temperament: Loyal, affectionate, protective, strong-willed An EngAm Bulldog is a cross between the American Bulldog and English bulldog, producing a larger, stouter version of the bully Englishman. These dogs are friendly, fun-loving, and outgoing. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Many breeders will require that you sign puppy contracts or submit a deposit. You might also get lucky and find one of these dogs and rescue or shelter nearby. These canines will come fully vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and with all other necessary care. These pups will keep you on your toes with their goofy antics and everyday mischief. As they mature, they typically calm down quite a bit—especially after spaying or neutering. Some of them might even be prone to extra-long naps, snoring, and falling asleep standing up. Their cuddly laziness is something to admire, but be careful not to let them gain a bunch of weight. These dogs are incredibly loyal and protective of their owners and any frequent visitors. However, they can be a little bit territorial and even sometimes aggressive without proper socialization. Getting your puppy out of the house and out to explore is the best way to ensure your adult will have sound judgment and good manners. These dogs are brilliant, but they can be stubborn. So make sure to be firm and consistent in your actions to prevent unwanted behaviors. Are These Dogs Good for Families? So if you have a growing family, the stars may work very well in your household. They will guard your house with their life, so they will always warn you when danger is afoot. They can knock any size person down quite easily with a little force. This breed is typically good with other dogs if they are socialized early. However, same-sex pairs might show aggression near the age of sexual maturity. Some never acclimate well with other dogs. It truly just depends on the individual and the amount of exposure they have to the outside world from puppyhood. EngAms can get along with the family cat as long as they are raised together. However, they will not be suitable for smaller pets or cage animals. Life Span Did You Know? The American Bulldog is a descendant of a generic bulldog type of dog breed brought into the region that is now the Southern United States by working-class immigrants many years ago. These were all-around working dogs used by small farmers and ranchers for several tasks around the farm. They were often found working as catch dogs, stock dogs, and overall farm guardians. When feral pigs were introduced to the New World, they had no natural predators and the population quickly grew out of control. In addition to their farm duties, the settlers found the bulldog-type dog to be the best solution they had for dealing with it. So, the bulldog continued to thrive, especially in the South. Johnson and Alan Scott that we have what we know today as the American Bulldog. Modern American Bulldogs can still be found working as all-around utility dogs, farm dogs, catch dogs, cattle drovers, and more. They can also be found competing in dog sports, working as a guardian, police, or military dog, and are also popular as a family pet. This dog breed is a sweetheart with a gentle, fun-loving nature. The American Bulldog is affectionate and adores their families. They also love children and tend to be good with other animals. American Bulldogs can have a high prey drive, so you will want to make sure you introduce and socialize them properly with other small animals in the household. Due to their protective nature, they can be aloof towards strangers and strange dogs, especially when they are younger. Early socialization can help them be more comfortable navigating their guardian instincts. Overall, this dog breed tends to be confident, social, and are most at ease and relaxed when they are with the people they love. American Bulldogs are an emotional dog breed and thrives on human attention and affection, so they tend to bond strongly with their owners and may come across as clingy sometimes. They will also often convince themselves that they are lap dogs regardless of their size, so make sure you are ready for a lot of love and cuddles with your American Bulldog, drool and all! The American Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They are strong, high-energy working dogs that love being around their favorite humans. This makes them better suited to larger homes with space for them to run. They are not generally a good fit for apartment living, but they can adapt as long as they get more than enough exercise and attention. Because they do tend to bond strongly with their owners and want to be near them, they do not tend to do well with long periods of time alone. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, but can adapt to well to most climates. There are some health issues that can be found in specific genetic lines and are not common to the breed overall, but these can be ruled out with genetic tests. Some potential health conditions to be aware of in general with the American Bulldog include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, thyroid disorders, kidney disorders, bone cancer, and eye-related issues like ectropion, entropion, and cherry eye. Talking to the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances can help allay potential concerns. American Bulldogs are highly trainable and eager to please, so they are a good fit for owners of any experience level, including first-time dog owners. They can have a stubborn streak, so a first-time dog owner may want to consider enrolling in puppy training classes. As with any dog breed, early and ongoing training and socialization are important for your American Bulldog puppy to grow into a well-rounded, and a well-behaved, dog. This dog breed has a short coat that is generally smooth. Common coat colors are white and predominately white with patches of brindle, black, or red. More coat color patterns are emerging and becoming more common like all shades of brindle, fawn, brown, red, and more. The American Bulldog is relatively low maintenance and easy to groom and they are light to moderate shedders. They only require a bath as needed. But, you will need to be prepared to deal with some extra drool! Floppy ears tend to trap moisture and dirt, which can lead to ear infections. The ideal dental care for dogs is using an enzyme toothpaste or brushing their teeth every day. Dental hygiene chews or treats, a specially-formulated dental care diet, and more can be used to supplement your dental care efforts. The American Bulldog is an athletic and high-energy dog breed. They love daily walks and plenty of playtime outside. They may even enjoy plenty of other activities with you like swimming, hiking , and more. With their working dog background, this dog breed does need a job to do in order to stay happy and healthy. They also tend to be a good candidate for dog sports like obedience, weight pulling, the Iron Dog competition, and more. A fully-grown American Bulldog usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. An American Bulldog generally lives for years. Chance, one of the canine stars from the Homeward Bound films, was an American Bulldog. Featured American Bulldog Article. Vocality level 3 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament The American Bulldog is an agile, confident and loyal protector for his human family, as well as of personal property. He is a gentle, affectionate and loving companion, albeit fearless and ready to strike should any intruder cross his path. An energetic, active working dog, the American Bulldog exudes a dominant, powerful and athletic appearance, with strong muscles and substantial boning. He gets along well with young children, as well as dogs and other pets so long as he was raised with them from the start. The American Bulldog does not do well when left alone for prolonged periods of time. With proper socialization, training and regular exercise, the American Bulldog is a true companion and excellent watchdog. Upkeep Because of his working past, the American Bulldog is quite familiar with being outdoors, but like most dogs, he thrives on living indoors with his owner. As such, he should be frequently exercised with plenty of engaging activity to burn off energy and combat boredom, avoiding consequential destructive behavior. Otherwise, the American Bulldog is a relatively low-maintenance breed, requiring not much else than mopping up his regular drool and slobber and minimal grooming for his short, fine coat. Known for his strength, courage and ease around livestock, the breed began being used for bull baiting before it was outlawed in England. Consequently following the ban, the breed was replaced with the less athletic, shorter and stockier English Bulldog. Meanwhile, the original bulldog type was preserved by working class immigrants, who brought them on their journey to America to use as all-around working dogs on farms and ranches in the South. Johnson worked to revive the breed alongside Alan Scott and other breeders. Today, the modern American Bulldog as we know it remains a well-rounded working dog, courageous guard dog and faithful family companion. Related Content.

Food bowl Treats Make sure you have all the above items before you bring your Golden retriever puppy home so that you can get started crate training him right away. Position The Crate Before you set off to collect your puppy, decide where you want his crate to be. Prepare The Crate Fit the crate with a non-slip crate liner, comfy bed, or crate pad, and put a tempting chew toy inside. Put a bowl of water and a packet of treats close by. Cut a small piece of the blanket and put it in the crate. Keep the rest of the blanket for future use. Let the puppy check out the area around the crate. Curious pups might even voluntarily venture inside the crate! Put a few tempting treats inside the crate, close to the door. Golden retrievers are notoriously food-oriented dogs that will most likely be enticed into the crate by those yummy treats. Never force the puppy into the crate. Chat to your pet, offer him more treats, and add a fun toy to the mix to persuade your furry friend to go into the crate. Generally, placing the crate around people will help to encourage your puppy to feel comfortable spending time inside it. Play Crate Games Crate sessions can be made more enjoyable for your puppy by incorporating some crate games. Use treats, cuddly toys, or a KONG toy stuffed with frozen peanut butter or treats to reward your puppy for entering his crate. Crate Feeding Your Golden Retriever Puppy Golden retrievers are very food-oriented, and you can use that to enhance and speed up the crate training process considerably. Allow your puppy to watch you prepare his meal, and then place the food bowl just inside the crate. Once your puppy is confidently going into the crate to get the food, move the food bowl to the back of the crate. Shut The Door By now, your Golden retriever puppy should view the crate as a safe, comfortable, fun place to be. So, try closing the crate door when your puppy is happily tucking into his food. The first time the door is closed, open it again once your pet has finished eating. At each crate training session, leave the door shut for a little longer. Step Back Away From The Crate Assuming that your crate routine is going well, your Golden retriever puppy should now associate the crate with a couple of treats, toys, games, and eating his meals. A common mistake people make is that they try to move too far away from the puppy too soon. Provided that the puppy is calm, you can now move away from the crate. If your puppy starts whinging, turn your back on your pet, and wait a few minutes until the whining stops. After ten seconds of your pet remaining calm, you can turn around and allow him to come out of the crate. Watch your puppy throughout this exercise, and let your pet out of the crate as soon as he shows signs of anxiety. Very young puppies aged up to ten weeks old will need to relieve themselves immediately after a meal. Potty Breaks When you begin your crate training puppy schedule , observe your pet closely for tell-tale signs that he needs to go potty. Generally, puppies will start whining, circling, and sniffing the ground when they need to relieve themselves. When that happens, immediately grab your puppy, and get him to his assigned toilet spot. Eight-week-old puppies typically need to go for a pee around every 30 to 60 minutes. During warm weather or after exercise, when the puppy drinks more, he might need to go more often than that. Once the puppy is older, he will be able to wait for longer between potty stops. What About Bedtime? The safest place for your puppy to spend the night is confined in his crate. Although your pup might experience a bit of separation anxiety from bedtime crating at first, you can help to mitigate that by putting the crate in your bedroom with you. Use a crate cover to create that safe, den-like space that encourages your canine companion to settle down and sleep. Sometimes, giving your Golden retriever puppy a special treat reserved for bedtime can help him understand that his crate is a comfortable space to spend the night. Expect Disturbed Nights! When your puppy is very young, you can expect to be disturbed by his cries for attention during the night. Dogs are clean animals, and they will resist soiling their sleeping area if at all possible. So, set your alarm to wake you up every couple of hours throughout the night so that you can take your puppy outside to relieve himself. Immediately Clean Up Accidents Unfortunately, dealing with potty accidents is all part and parcel of raising and training a new puppy. When that happens, never punish or scold your pup. When accidents happen around your home, use an enzyme cleaner to remove the scent of urine from your floor coverings. If your puppy has an accident in his crate, you must wash all the bedding immediately. Ensure that you have a good supply of spare bedding to grab if you need it, and clean the crate thoroughly to remove any lingering smell of urine. Golden retrievers are especially quick at remembering simple words, and these trainable dogs are typically pretty obedient. So, from the get-go, you need to begin using verbal cues. Pick short and clear words so that your puppy can easily recognize and remember them. Combine your cue words with crate training. Increase The Difficulty As crate training progresses, you can make things more challenging for your puppy. Ask your dog to stay in the crate with the door closed for longer periods, and begin to move out of sight. Just like little kids, puppies will throw tantrums during the first few days of crate training. That behavior is perfectly normal and to be expected, especially when you first close the crate door. Instead, reward calm behavior with treats verbal praise, and let your puppy come out of the crate. So, when a tantrum kicks off, simply turn your back on your furry friend, and wait until he settles down again. Consistency Is Crucial! One of the most common problems people experience when crate training their puppy is not being consistent. Yes, it can be tough when your adorable fluffy bundle is crying and whining inside his crate. Unfortunately, giving in to your fur baby when he complains simply teaches your pet that whining and other bad behavior get him what he wants, which sets your training regimen back. Playtime Is Vital A lively Golden retriever puppy bursting with energy is not likely to settle calmly in his crate. Final Thoughts I hope you enjoyed our guide to crate training a Golden retriever puppy. If you did, please remember to share it. Crates are also useful tools for potty training your puppy and preventing bad behavior, such as chewing and eating harmful substances. Always be consistent and patient when crate training your puppy; use cue words and positive reinforcement to make learning fun for both your pet and you. Did you use a crate to train your Golden retriever puppy? Tell us how you did in the comments box below. Meet our writer Alison Page Alison Page was brought up with dogs and various other pets! For a few years, Alison worked as a Practice Manager in a small animal veterinary clinic. Alison is now a full-time writer, specializing in creating articles on the care and training of dogs, cats, and fish. Leave a Comment. Want to learn how to crate train your golden retriever puppy fast? Crate training is one of the best things you can do for your puppy. It helps accelerate potty training, it keeps them safe, and it helps keep them from learning bad habits like chewing up shoes. Read this article to learn more about potty training your golden retriever puppy. When I was a kid I hated vegetables. I just wanted fries and chicken nuggets. But what did my parents do? They made me eat veggies a little at a time until I got used to them. And then after I got used to them, I learned to love them. Now as an adult, I would much rather prefer a pile of grilled zucchini, broccoli, and asparagus than a plateful of fries. Crate training your golden retriever follows a similar pattern. But the following steps are going to teach you how to teach them to love their crate and handle being alone. The wire crate helped because it was open so he could always see the people around him, which lessened his anxiety of being in there alone at first. Step 2: Get The Crate Ready This is another step that you will have ideally done before you bring your puppy home. The first thing to consider when getting the crate ready for your pup is where to put it. Here are a few options: In your bedroom In the living room or other area where people in your home hang out Get two crates and have one in your bedroom and one in the living room Golden retrievers love being around people, so having their crate around people will usually help ease some of the pain of crate training. This will usually help with the loneliness and crying. The other thing to consider when getting the crate ready is what to put in it. You also may want to put a bed in there to make it comfortable for them. So how do you do that? First, they need to decide to go into the crate themselves. You can do that by putting a favorite toy in the crate, or scattering food in there. Expect them to walk in and right back out the first time. You want to make it so that they know fun things are in the crate. Check out the video below for a fun crate training game to help your puppy learn to love their crate. Walk out of the room for a second, then come back in. Then walk out for five seconds, then ten seconds. These next few sections will answer some common questions that new puppy owners have, as well as some tips to help the process go smoothly. Putting your puppy in the crate with a full bladder is one way you can set them up to fail. Also, frozen kongs or chew toys with peanut butter work great for easing your puppy into getting comfortable in their crate by themselves. That means that a two-month-old puppy can only hold it for about two to three hours, so expect to have to wake up two or three times every night until they get a little older. Take the water bowl away about two or three hours before bedtime so that your puppy will have time to fully empty their bladder before going to sleep for the night. Get them sufficiently tired during the day. Play games like tug, fetch or chase to physically wear them out, and train them and give them puzzle toys like frozen kongs to mentally wear them out. Set an alarm to wake yourself up before they wake up themselves. This is a tough situation, but it can be done. Here are some tips to make it work. You may have to come home on your lunch break, ask friends, family, or neighbors to come over, or hire a dog walker to let your puppy out. Wear them out in the mornings Go on walks, play chase, fetch and tug, or wrestle with them in the mornings to get some of their endless energy out. Utilize an exercise pen You might want to consider getting an exercise pen like this one from Amazon and circling it around the front of the crate to give your dog some extra room. Check out the video below for an example of what a crate looks like with an exercise pen attached for extra space. Does she need to pee? Is she full of energy? Or does she just want to get out and get some attention? Remember to set them up for success before you put them in crate, meaning physically and mentally tiring them out and making sure their bladder is empty. You can also leave for short periods of time starting at seconds , then come back and let her out. How long it takes for your puppy to get used to the crate depends. Did you rush them into it, or did you let them learn that the crate is awesome? Have you been rewarding them for barking in it, or have they learned that silence is what gets them out of the crate? It also depends on the dog. Some dogs take to crates much better than others. You can do it! Is Crate Training Ever Over? We started leaving him alone in the house somewhere around six months old, and then a few months after that we started letting him sleep outside of his crate he decided to sleep under the toilet… weird dude. Two big questions to ask yourself when considering taking this next step are: When was the last time my puppy had an accident in the house? When was the last time my puppy chewed something up in the house? Just like with crate training, you want to take baby steps and set them up for success. Crate Training Mistakes While all of the tips above will help make crate training go smoothly, the mistakes below can ruin your efforts, or at least make it very hard to get them to relax in their crate. Mistake 2: Rushing crate training Crate training takes time. Would you want to go in an unfamiliar box in an unfamiliar house? They need to learn that the crate is fun, safe, and relaxing, and that takes time. This leads us to the next mistake… Mistake 4: Punishing them for crying in the crate If a puppy is crying in the crate because they want attention, they might perceive you yelling at them as attention. Mistake 6: Using the crate too much Golden retrievers are lovers. Conclusion Crate training is one of the best things you can do for your puppy. Have any questions about crate training? Or have any other tips for new puppy owners? Let me know in the comments below! Related articles:. Key Takeaways Crate training can help you provide a safe and comfortable environment for your Golden Retriever. Avoid rushing the crate training process to ensure your dog feels comfortable and secure. Please do not use the crate as a punishment or leave your dog in it for extended periods. Crate training can be more effective and enjoyable for your dog if you use consistency, positive reinforcement, treats, and toys. Make it more comfortable by providing toys, blankets, and treats. Step 2: Once your pup is at ease, close the door and bring toys and treats inside. Keep an eye on them and let them out if they become distressed. Step 3: Increase the time your puppy spends in the crate with the door closed gradually, and step away from the crate while they are distracted. Step 4: Extend the time you are away from the crate. Selecting The Right Crate Size To ensure your Golden Retriever is comfortable and has enough space in their crate, you need to measure them accurately. Golden Retrievers will typically grow to by 20 to 24 inches tall and up to 75 lbs, so you need to make sure to get them the right size crate. Follow these steps to determine the size of your dog: 1. Measure the height of your Golden Retriever: Have your dog stand up straight, Measure from the floor to the top of their shoulder blades. Add around inches to this measurement to determine the minimum height for the crate. Measure the length of your dog from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail. Remember to add 2 to 4 inches to the measurement. Measure their width by having your Golden Retriever standing with their legs slightly apart. Focus your attention on the widest part of their body, which tends to be the chest area. Once again, always add up to 4 inches to the figure. Finally, you want to consider the age of your Golden Retriever. For example, if you have a puppy, keep in mind that they will grow rapidly. You may want to choose a crate that will work for their adult size or opt for an adjustable crate with dividers, so you can gradually increase the space as they grow. Your Golden Retriever puppy will rapidly outgrow a nice crate that is not suited for an adult size. Now that you have all the measurements, you can refer to this Crate Size Calculator to find out the right and best dog crate size for your golden retriever. What Is Crate Training? Crate training is the process of teaching a dog to accept a crate as a familiar and safe location. Here are some of the reasons: House training: Using a crate, you can help your dog learn where and when to go potty. This will make house training more effortless and less stressful for both of you. Safe space: A crate can be a relaxing and safe place for your dog to relax and sleep. It can also help keep your dog out of a mess by preventing them from chewing on inappropriate items or getting into dangerous substances. Traveling: Whether driving or flying across the country, a crate can help keep your dog safe and comfortable. Additionally, many hotels and other accommodations allow crate-trained dogs. Separation anxiety: A crate can provide security and comfort if your dog gets anxious when you leave. Knowing they have a safe place to go can help alleviate their anxiety and make their time away from home less stressful. Overall, crate training is an excellent way to provide your dog with a secure and comfortable environment to call their own. You should start crate training your puppy when you bring them home. However, with patience and positive reinforcement, an older dog can be trained to use a crate. Crate training can be a helpful way to provide a safe and comfortable space for your Golden Retriever to rest and relax, but it should never be used as a form of punishment or confinement. When done responsibly and positively, crate training can be a positive and effective method for you and your Golden Retriever. However, with time, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can help your dog get used to his crate. Add treats, toys, and blankets to the crate to make it more inviting. Increasing the time your dog spends in the crate gradually is crucial. Remember that crate training should be enjoyable for you and your Golden Retriever. You can quickly make your furry friend feel safe and secure in their crate with a little effort! Benefits Of Crate Training Your Golden Retriever Crate training can be super helpful for your furry friend and offer them a bunch of benefits, such as: Prevents Destructive Behavior: By giving your Golden Retriever a cozy and secure space, crate training can prevent them from chewing, digging, or scratching on household items. Potty Training: Crate training can teach your Golden Retriever to associate the crate with their den, making it easier to hold their bladder and bowels until you take them outside. Prepares Them For Travel: If you need to take your Golden Retriever on a trip, crate training can help them feel comfortable and secure while in transit. Crate training is a great way to help your Golden Retriever feel safe, secure, and comfortable while preventing destructive behavior and keeping them healthy and happy. Adult dogs: They can handle up to 8 hours in a crate, ideally with a break in the middle. Overnight: Many dogs can stay in a crate overnight without issues. Always ensure that any time in the crate is a positive experience for the dog, supplemented by regular breaks, exercise, and playtime outside of the crate. The shift is a delicate balance of patience, supervision, and positive reinforcement. Gradual Exploration Start by letting your dog explore a restricted, safe space under supervision. As comfort grows, extend the time they spend outside the crate. Monitor and Supervise Observe your dog closely during early freedom stages to prevent accidents or mischief. Ensure your home is dog-proofed to minimize potential hazards. Essential Amenities Keep their water bowl accessible. Designate a comfortable resting spot outside the crate. Positive Reinforcement Reward good behavior with treats or praise. This encourages adherence to house rules and reinforces desired behavior. Display patience and affection throughout their transition. With time and consistent guidance, your furry friend will seamlessly integrate into the household, striking a balance between freedom and behavior. Before leaving your dog alone in the crate, be patient and make sure your furry friend is comfortable and safe. For them, the crate should be a positive and safe space, and associating it with negative experiences can cause anxiety and fear. While some time in the crate is acceptable, providing sufficient opportunities for exercise, socialization , and bathroom breaks throughout the day is essential. Maintain a consistent routine and use the same commands each time you place your dog in the crate. Use Toys And Treats: Place toys and treats inside the crate to entice your dog to enter. This will make the crate a more positive and enjoyable environment for them to be in. Ensure your pup gets enough exercise and playtime throughout the day, so your furry companion can relax in the crate when the time comes. Excessive whining, barking, panting, and restlessness are all signs of stress in a Golden Retriever. If your furry friend exhibits these behaviors in the crate, they may be too stressed. Can I use a crate for my adult golden retriever? Yes, as long as it is appropriately sized and they are comfortable in it, you can use a crate for your adult Golden Retriever. Can you leave a puppy crying in the crate? Leaving a crying puppy in the crate is not recommended because it can cause separation anxiety and other behavioral problems. Instead, it is critical to gradually acclimate them to the crate and create a positive and comfortable environment. Should you put a blanket over a dog crate? Yes, draping a blanket over a dog crate can provide a sense of security and darkness, but ensure proper ventilation is maintained. What age is too late to train a puppy? Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Read the full disclosure here. I know that, and eventually, your dog will know that, too. In this article you will learn exactly how to crate train a puppy or dog, no matter their age or level of previous training. You should read the whole guide before starting, to gain a complete understanding of the process, including the tips and troubleshooting at the end so you can find the speediest success. Why do we do this? We do this so we can use the crate as a place for short-term confinement, to keep our dogs and our belongings safe when we cannot supervise them. Then we can confine them short-term when needed, and they are happy to do so. Yes, they can even enjoy their time in the crate! In contrast: A properly crate trained dog will enjoy time in there happily and stress-free, even relishing the chance to get down to some occupational chew toy time or just to chill out and relax. Dog obedience is key to get this result! Benefits such as: Dramatically speeding up house training. Giving your dog a cozy and comfortable place to call their own where they can sleep and relax, overnight or whenever they wish. Giving you a tool to use for managing problem behaviors or to use for time outs to calm your puppy when needed. Giving you a safe way to transport your dog both by car and air if the need should arise. So they can enjoy trips away and holidays with you. Preparing your puppy for boarding at the vets, a kennel or at home to recover after medical treatment. There are many benefits to using a crate when used correctly, but they can also be misused. And there are also times when you should never crate a dog, regardless of their age or how much or little they can be trusted: Times And Ways That You Should Not Use A Crate There are a small number of dogs that suffer true anxiety and panic when placed in a crate. Under no circumstances should these dogs be crated…ever! The signs you need to look out for are: Any damage to the crate that show signs of attempting to escape. Urinating or defecating in the crate. The crate has moved at all while your dog is inside they must have made some frantic movements for this to happen. Never if your dog has sickness or diarrhea. Never when the weather is extremely hot. Never for any time longer than 5 hours. Not any time your vet prohibits it for medical reasons. Never as a way to punish your dog or for punishment. Use obedience training to correct bad behavior instead. Crating your dog for any of the reasons above is either inhumane, dangerous or purely selfish. Getting Prepared Before you can start crate training, you obviously need a crate. But you also need to make it a comfortable and happy place for your dog. Choosing A Crate Dog sleeping in crate There are many different sizes and style of dog crates available, from tiny inch crates all the way up to inch and bigger! XXL heavy duty dog crates. There are wire dog crates , plastic, fabric and even high quality wooden crates that look just like pieces of furniture. But the most important aspect of the crate you choose is its size: Too small and it would be cruel to expect your dog or puppy to spend time in there Too large and it loses the den like feeling dogs crave, not to mention they can use one end to sleep in while using the other end as a toilet, so it loses its effectiveness. For detailed instructions on measuring your dog for a crate and selecting the right size and type to suit your needs, please see my article: Choosing The Right Size And Type Of Dog Crate 2. Making The Crate Comfortable And Safe Dog In Soft Crate After choosing the right crate, you then have to make it a comfortable, safe and pleasant place for your puppy or dog to love spending time. For a detailed guide on where to place your crate and what you should put in it, you can read my article on: How to make a crate comfortable and safe for your dog. Make sure the crate is out of any direct sunlight, away from heat sources like fireplaces or radiators, and away from any possible cold drafts. Place soft, comfortable bedding inside. Place 2 or more chew toys inside to keep them occupied and develop good chew toy habits. If you have a wire crate, cover it either with a purpose bought crate cover or an old blanket or towel. Following the above 5 tips ensures the crate is a nice comfortable place for your dog. These pose a risk of choking if they happen to snag on anything, so no collars or leashes allowed. Your dog or puppy must be completely naked when crated. You must not rush through and you must make sure you are successful at each stage before you move on to the next, otherwise you could end up causing your dog or puppy to hate the crate by leaving them crated before they are ready. This unfamiliar box can be scary! The ultimate goal is for them to use it voluntarily. So the first task you have on the journey to crate training your puppy or dog is to form in their mind an association between the crate and all the things that they enjoy in life, so they see the crate as a good thing. Fail at this and you could saddle yourself with a dog who hates the crate, refuses to use it and maybe even fears it which can be a very hard thing to undo. So how do you go about achieving this? Technique 1: Magically Appearing Toys And Treats Set up the crate before you bring your dog home or if you have an existing pet, assemble the crate without them seeing so it just magically appears. Now let your dog or puppy into the room. So what should you do? Just act as you normally would, do what you would normally do. Play with your dog or puppy, or sit and watch TV, just act normal. Hopefully they will investigate this new thing in their world, enticed by the treats around and inside it, but also out of plain curiosity. Just draw no attention to the crate at all. Every dog will eventually at least eat the treats around the crate, if not the ones inside. This has the effect of the most prized things in their life being magically conjured up by the crate. Do this for a couple of days or more before you start crate training, and then occasionally for the few weeks after starting so your dog learns to love the crate and what it provides. You should find after a very short time they venture into the crate on their own just to look for some goodies, all without any encouragement from you. NOTE: Any treats you give this way have to be subtracted from their daily food portions or they will be overeating. And I say to do this just for the first few days and then only occasionally because to help house training you want your puppy eating on a schedule to promote defecating on a schedule, not eating at random times and pooping at random times. Feed these meals inside the crate. At first, place their food bowl just inside so they only have to poke their head in to feed. Then after the first couple of times, place it half way into the crate. After a couple of times of this, place it all the way at the back. You might be successful with this right away, or you may have to place it at the front for a few meals over a few days. Some dogs confidence builds quicker than others. Eventually and not before too long you should find your dog expectantly running over to and maybe even into the crate every time they see you holding their food bowl. After a few days of magic appearing treats and your dog eating dinner from the crate, basically once they are used to the crate and associate good things with it, we are ready to start crate training. When you do release your dog you do not want them bolting out and bumping into you, particularly important if you have a large dog such as a Golden Retriever that can easily bowl you over on their way past! You want them to reliably leave the crate when you ask. You can only achieve these three things if your dog understands that they must stay inside until told they can leave, or must leave when they hear the cue word. Choose whatever words you like, just be consistent. You do not want to spook your dog at this stage. Sit close to the crate armed with some high value treats, show them to your dog and then throw one inside the crate. Move away so they can easily exit and just stand patiently and quietly waiting for them to do so. Repeat this 8 to 10 times then take a couple of minutes break. Then do another set of 8 to .Yes, for real. Repeat this whole exercise a few times over the course of a day or two until your dog is comfortably, happily and reliably going in the crate when you throw in a treat. Training your dog to do this is a huge step! Make sure they really are confidently going in to get the treat before moving to the next step. And remember to use your cue words every single time so they quickly learn them. Step 3: No Treat For Free! The next step is to ask your puppy or dog into the crate before you treat them. Make them work for the treat instead of using it to lure them into the crate. To start, do 2 or 3 exercises of throwing a treat in and using the cue word as they go in to get it. When they do, give them a treat or two while you praise them profusely. Then use the cue word to leave and praise them when they do. Repeat this 8 to 10 times, take a couple of minutes break, then do another 8 to 10 before finishing up for this session. Repeat this step many times over the course of a day or two until you are certain your puppy or dog truly understands the commands and is happy to both go into and leave the crate on cue before you move to step 4. Now, many of you will have a dog at this stage that goes in, gets the treat or their toys and cannot wait to get back out again. But some will already be sitting, laying and sleeping in the crate of their own accord. Regardless though, what you want to achieve is your puppy or dog to sit and lie in the crate on cue, which is different to doing it of their own accord. Begin this just a couple of days after getting them home because they need to understand the cues outside of the crate before you can hope to have them follow the commands inside it. Other things you should have been doing before this step are: feeding your dog or puppy their main meals inside the crate occasionally leaving stuffed Kong toys in the crate this gets them used to spending time in there, usually in a sitting or laying position this will have made things easier Now, run through 2 or 3 repetitions of steps 2 and 3 before you start step 4, always remembering to use your chosen cues! Next, when your dog is inside the crate: Simply cue them to sit, praise and reward them profusely when they do. Then ask for a down and do the same. Then cue them to leave the crate before repeating the exercise. Try this 8 to 10 times before a few minutes break, then repeat for 8 to 10 times more. Repeat this whole step a few times over a day or more, but as you repeat the exercises, ask them to stay sitting or lying down for longer periods before you release them. And you should vary the duration to keep them guessing what it takes to earn a treat. Try just 1 second, then 5, then 2, then 10, then 3 and so on. Try to stretch the time out over a few practice sessions. Remember to be gentle and that your tone of voice throughout training matters. As always: Start with 2 or 3 repetitions of the easier steps first, going through steps 3 and 4 before trying to close the door. When ready: Cue your dog to go into the crate, praise and treat them, then ask for a sit, praise and treat and then slowly close the door. You ask for a sit because this position is automatically a more calm and relaxed position than standing. Continue to praise your dog and give a couple of treats through the closed door for remaining calm and sitting. Then open the door, and cue them to leave the crate. If your dog looks fearful or panicked when you close the door some will! Start by closing the door just part way for a few repetitions, then half way for a few, then most the way before finally closing it fully. This may take one training session or a few over days. Are you ready to move on? Once your dog is happy to sit a few seconds with the door closed, begin to latch it. Praise and treat for calm, then release the latch and open the door. For a training session, do 8 to 10 reps, take a few minutes break and then repeat. During each set, vary the time they have to stay calm and sitting, 3 seconds, then 10, then 4, then 15 and so on. You should aim to extend the time they stay calm and sitting with the door closed to a full minute before moving on to the next step. Again, this could take an afternoon, or it might take a few days. Go at your dogs pace and never force things. The base is serving as a staging facility for hurricane relief operations. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Jack Braden Once your puppy or dog can sit calmly in the crate with the door closed for a full minute, the next step is to start moving away with the ultimate aim of being able to leave the room. First of all, perform a few reps of steps 4 and 5 as a warm up, remembering to always use your cues. Next, follow these steps: Cue your dog into the crate, close the door, latch it, praise and reward them and take a couple of steps backwards away from the crate but still facing it. Then return, praise and reward. Open the door and cue your dog to come out. Do this exercise 8 to 10 times, then take a few minutes break and repeat. For each repetition, mix things up: Try walking away a different distance in a different direction, but remaining in the room. First 2 steps backwards and pause 5 seconds before returning, then 4 steps to the side and a 15 second pause and so on. Work up to walking right to the exit or the wall and pausing for a full minute. Next, you will want to amp things up even more: Perform this exercise while you actively walk around the room, looking busy doing other things, but return to praise and treat your dog often. Tidy some magazines, rustle through a drawer, just look busy doing other things a few times in the house. Then, go even farther: Perform this exercise but back yourself up to the exit of the room and leave for just a couple of seconds before returning and heading to the crate to treat and praise. Do this a few times. The time this takes and the success you have will vary from puppy to puppy and dog to dog. Always stop at 10 repetitions max, and never more than two batches in quick succession followed by a big break. Otherwise your dog will get bored and the training is less effective. Now you just need to start increasing the time they are happy to spend time alone. Before you begin, something that goes a long way toward helping is to make sure your puppy or dog is well exercised before asking them into the crate. Why is that? A tired dog will be far more willing to relax and chill out for a length of time, compared to one who is full of energy and keen to play or wanting attention! After exercising them, the first step is to increase the time they are happy to spend in the crate while you are still nearby. To achieve this: Crate feeding: Feed your dog in the crate, or give them a stuffed Kong toy or good tasting bone chew toy. Hang out nearby: Ask your dog into the crate, give them their food or the toy, then close the door and take a seat nearby to read a book or a magazine. Engage occasionally: Every now and then, give them a further treat and praise, then go back to your book or magazine. Gradual build: Try to work up to a good half hour of quiet and calm in the crate while you read and they chew. Ignore them: After a couple of times like this, crate your dog or puppy with their meal or a stuffed toy and move around the room busying yourself, paying little attention to your dog. You want them to be eating their meal or chewing a toy in the locked crate while you do other things. Leave the room: After a couple of repetitions of this, repeat the exercise but move freely in and out of the room a few times, as well as occasionally sitting nearby. Disappear: Start by leaving the room for only 5 or 10 minutes, extending the time over a few sessions until you eventually achieve a full hour of alone time. As always, how long this takes will vary wildly from puppy to puppy and dog to dog. Go at their pace. It helps massively to succeed in this step if you only ever give your puppy or dog the bone chew toys or stuffed Kongs when in the crate and never outside of it. It builds excitement and anticipation, something to look forward to in the crate. Step 8: The Grand Finale! Wait for them to start chewing and then leave and come back into the room a couple of times. If they stay calm and pre-occupied with their chewing, simply leave the house. Then, do this: Go outside and walk to the bottom of your garden, just hang there for a few minutes and then go back inside and walk around your home for a couple of minutes before going to the crate and your dog. You want them to think that this is nothing, a complete non-event. And certainly do not go straight to them when you come back in. Remember: this even means nothing! From now on, practice alone time in the crate when you leave the house at least a couple of times every day, for varying lengths of time. Never make a fuss of any sort before you go, never make a fuss on your return. Over a few sessions, build up the time you are out of the house with your dog in the crate to a couple of hours as long as they are old enough to hold their bladder this long. You can now use the crate to keep your dog and your belongings safe when you cannot supervise them, and use the crate as a sleeping place for your dog at night. Always leave a few toys in there with your dog, and continue to repeat the exercise where you crate them with a stuffed Kong or chew toy if natural opportunities do not arise, just to keep them happy with the situation. If you have a dog that: Some puppies will take regular naps in the crate before you even start crate training. They might go on to show little interest or care about the door being closed. They might be super confident and happy right away with a little alone time. You might be able to crate train such a dog in just a few short days. Dogs like this can take many weeks to crate train: Some puppies may show fear of the crate and not want to go anywhere near it. Once carefully trained to go in, they might feel panic and fear when you close the door. You have to go at your own dogs pace because if you rush them you can instill dislike or even fear of the crate in their minds, and then it will take far longer than it ever should have. But many or most dogs will take to it quicker, and most puppies certainly will as they have no preconceived ideas, habits or emotions to overcome. When going through the steps above, if your dog excels at any stage you can quickly move to the next step. If they do not, if they show any fear or uncertainty, spend more time at a particular step until they are comfortable before moving on. Your dog will show you when they are ready to progress and you should go at their speed, however fast or slow that may be. They need to be able to: move around exercise their muscles enjoy some mental stimulation If they are regularly crated longer than this, behavioral problems will be the result, as well as the fact they have little in the way of a fulfilling life. In my experience this is a bit optimistic, all dogs are different and when a puppy is very young, this is certainly too long. This is with the exception of puppies from 8 to 12 weeks old who will need letting out once during the night. But after 12 weeks, they can last the whole night through. Crating your dog when you work full-time means two lots of 4 or more hours crated and this is a long time, so quality time, exercise and stimulation before and after crating is essential. Tips For Better Crate Training What follows are a few useful tips to keep in mind when crate training your puppy or dog. They will make the process easier and faster, while making sure your dog is comfortable and happy throughout the process: Always make sure you take your puppy or dog to their bathroom spot before you crate them for any length time. They will be uncomfortable and noisily complain with a full bladder…but rightfully so! Also take them the moment you let them out as they will usually be ready to go. Make sure the crate door is always open and your dog always has access to it so they can use it as and when they please. Most dogs will use it as a place to rest and this is a good thing. Always leave chew toys in the crate for your dog so there is something for them to do while crated. This will minimize boredom and teaches good habits of chewing on the right things. Continue to feed them their meals in the crate. Also, reserve special treats like bones and stuffed Kong toys for the crate only and never outside of it, so they really look forward to spending time there. Exercise your dog or puppy well before crating them for any length of time. A tired dog is one who is happy to relax and chill out. If you find your puppy nodding off and completely unable to stay awake this happens a lot! This will speed up their acceptance of the crate considerably if they snooze and find themselves waking up in there often. The worst thing you can do is force them in because chances are it will heighten their fear and make things even worse. Instead, break the task down into easier steps for your dog by employing some of the following tasks: Practice asking your dog to step in and out of cardboard boxes. First trimming the sides down to look like a small tray, then using further boxes and increasing height of the sides. Place bedding in the box and practice asking them to lay down. Some dogs may not like the roof aspect of the crate. Ask your dog to step underneath, even sit under there yourself and read a book while enticing them over for treats. Start with a big gap and a wide area covered, then lessen the gap between furniture in later training sessions to make it feel more crate like over time. If you have a plastic travel style crate airline crate then remove the top half and practice having them step in and out of the bottom half only. Start asking your dog to step into the bottom tray only. Then put on 2 of the walls for a couple of training sessions. Then three walls for a few sessions. Then the roof until finally the crate is fully assembled. Then cover the back third of the pens roof with a sheet and do the same. Then cover a half. Then remove a part of the pen to make the area smaller and ask them in to play with them. Whichever of the above you try, make sure an exit is wide open and easy for your dog to use for escape so they will feel less anxious. And take things very slowly, making sure they are visibly comfortable at any stage before taking a next step. After a few days maybe more of slowly getting them used to stepping into things that progressively get more and more crate like, you should be able to begin crate training. This type of reinforcement will not help the cries. Yes, you getting angry and telling your dog off will actually make the issue worse. This will train them to think that if they cry long and loud enough, you will eventually come and let them out. Not a good idea. Wait for 5 seconds silence before you approach, then give them a treat. You ruined it! Wait for at least 5 seconds of silence before you return, then treat them. Enough repetitions of this will teach them that silence gets rewarded and noise makes you go away. Why did they whine? You might want to go back a step or two in your crate training though. Make sure they are comfortably happy and silent in the crate, for a reasonable length of time with the door latched and you present, before you ever try to leave them alone. Young puppies cannot hold it through the night without having a potty break. But how do you know if the whines are because they need to eliminate or just crying for attention? For a puppy 8 to 9 weeks old, you will need to set an alarm to take them to potty twice during the night, at 2. For a puppy 9 to 12 weeks old, set an alarm to take them to potty half way through the night, 3. Make sure you do not feed them anything in the 3 hours before bed, take away water at least 2 hours before bed, and take them to their toilet spot to empty themselves as the very last thing you do before you go to bed. When you take them to potty, make sure you do so in silence. No playing, no words, no attention, otherwise they will learn that night-time is a time for play and attention. You obviously do not want this. They are very different things. But if when you leave your dog alone crated they show these symptoms: anxiety.

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Post header Skip post header How much exercise does a German Shepherd need? Making sure your German Shepherd gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation is really important for keeping them healthy and happy. Regular exercise can not only keep them in good shape, but it can also help improve their behaviour and well-being. How much exercise does a German Shepherd need? German Shepherds are highly active dogs , originally bred for working and guarding flocks of sheep, and more recently used by military and police forces. All this means that German Shepherds are among the most high-energy dogs out there. Of course, their exercise needs can vary based on a number of factors including age, fitness level, general health, food intake and more. That said, most German Shepherds usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing. To get an exercise goal tailored to your dog, simply download the free PitPat app and enter their details. How much exercise does a German Shepherd puppy need? This is especially true for this breed since they are prone to conditions like hip dysplasia. As a rule of thumb, puppies will need five minutes of formal exercise such as walkies for every month of their age. These walks should be opportunities to explore their environment, work on training and good behaviour outdoors, and socialise with other people and dogs in a controlled manner. How much exercise does a senior German Shepherd need? You can also set your own goals manually in case they have higher or lower exercise needs. What types of exercise are best for German Shepherds? German Shepherds excel at all sorts of exercise and canine sports thanks to their working background. In addition to their daily walks, you could try:. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. You need the best exercise for German Shepherd puppies to keep them healthy, fit, and, more importantly… Out of mischief! Quite the opposite is true for your fast-growing breed! German Shepherd puppies should stick to only five minutes of continuous, on-leash leisurely walking at a time, based on their age in months. So, an 8-week-old puppy can walk for 10 minutes at a time on a leash, while a 6-month-old can walk on a leash for 30 minutes at a time. However, your puppy can enjoy low-impact, gentle exercises for longer periods of time. You can play games that work on sustained growth multiple times per day safely. Instead, exercise on soft surfaces, for example: Grass Sand Dirt paths or trails Stretching of soft ligaments at too early an age, strains on young, growing joints, and carrying too much weight on their overall framework can and will harm your young puppy. This leads to problems in adulthood, which you could avoid! Remember to watch for: Panting heavily with rapid breath Lagging on their walks for longer than usual Stopping on walks and standing Lying down on their belly or side If your dog is hyperactive and displays excessive chewing and destructive behavior, they may need engaging brain stimulation to help them use their brains to engage in their environments constructively. Ideally, you also need to teach them basic commands and house manners. Start now with basic obedience training to avoid later behavioral issues. Eventually, your active, adult GSD will need at least 2 walks of 45 minutes each source. Other great ways to exercise your German Shepherd puppy include working on their balance, enjoying mental stimulation, and playing gently with toys they love. Until your vet clears your dog as having their bones fully fused this is around 12 to 18 months of age , activity should be cautious and slow-paced. Up to twelve months of age, natural free running is the best way to exercise German Shepherds. With free running, your dog is off-leash and can stop or slow as they wish. Limit and monitor on-leash walks and activity while your German Shepherd is growing. When walking on a leash, allow them to Walk at their own pace Stop and start as they please Sniff around leisurely to explore the grass, flowers, and trees Lay down, roll around, and dig in approved digging places Use a no-pull harness with a design that allows for natural shoulder movement to avoid unnatural gait development. Try this padded no-pull harness on your German Shepherd to avoid any neck injuries to her while she is young. This design also limits pulling and helps teach nice leash walking manners. The handle on the back of the no-pull harness makes it easy to grab your pup to stop them from running into a hazard or just to catch them! Read more helpful information on the benefits and disadvantages of using a harness or a collar to help you choose the right equipment for walking your new puppy. There are plenty of other ideas to try with your new baby German Shepherd. Even better? You can find so many ways to learn what your new German Shepherd puppy likes to play with for their fun and games! Keep reading for a German Shepherd puppy exercise chart and specific, step-by-step fun games to keep your new pup happy and healthy. Exercising puppies heavily too early in life may lead to joint damage. This is especially likely in large breeds with rapidly growing and heavily loaded joints, such as your GSD. High-Impact Activity to Avoid Jumping, especially from couches, furniture, or cars Twisting such as chasing a toy that wildly moves in many directions Exercising over hard or uneven ground especially sidewalks and asphalt Keep exercise short and frequent, as this is more beneficial than long, infrequent periods of activity. Sep 06, Puppies need exercise to develop healthy bones, muscles and hearts. Exercise goes a long way to help curb anxiety and behavior issues related to boredom. But you may have heard that too much exercise can be harmful. How much exercise is necessary, how much is too much, and what kinds of exercise should you be doing? As a general rule, your puppy knows best. Normal puppy play is okay, and you should never feel as though you should stop your puppy from playing on its own accord. Short walks are also okay, as long as your idea of a short walk isn't 3 miles every morning! Short games of fetch and tug are also okay. Fetch is especially hard on the body because most dogs rapidly accelerate to go after the ball and rapidly decelerate once they get to it, so good throws is plenty in conjunction with other acceptable exercises. Tug is also hard on the body, so minutes is plenty in conjunction with other acceptable exercises as well. Swimming is a great, low-impact exercise. Just make sure your puppy doesn't ingest too much water while swimming. It's also recommended that you not play fetch in the water because dogs can accidentally ingest a lot of water when retrieving toys thrown into bodies of water. Examples of exercises that are too rigorous for puppies are long hikes, running steps, long games of fetch, long walks, running, jogging, weight pull and pulling carts of any kind, wearing vests with anything over a few ounces in it for anything other than a short stroll, flyball, and inappropriate amounts of agility training. All of these things are stressful on soft, growing bones and joints and can result in hip and elbow dysplasia and musculoskeletal deformities, diseases and injuries. As a rule of thumb, don't exceed 5 minutes for each month of the puppy's age of acceptable exercise no more than twice a day. For instance, 15 minutes of exercise twice a day is ideal for a 3-month-old puppy, while 20 minutes twice a day is ideal for a 4-month-old puppy. As a general rule, you can start building up puppies to adult levels of exercise once they turn 9 months of age if they're not expected to grow over 25lbs. By a year they can be exercised as an adult as long as you properly build up their stamina. For medium and large breeds, you can begin to build them up to adult levels of exercise by 15 months and it's safe to exercise them as adults once they turn 18 months old. German Shepherd dogs will naturally travel in a cantering-lope rather than a slow walk. That means that it is imperative that you train your puppy early on how to walk on a leash by your side without pulling. German Shepherds are a powerful breed and are capable of dragging handlers who aren't strong enough to hold them back. Eliminate the possibility of a physical tug of war by relying on solid training instead. Remember, exercise is also great for keeping hip and elbow joints stabilized in German Shepherd Dogs. Many large breeds are known to suffer from hip and elbow problems later in life, but dysplasia seems to unfairly target the German Shepherd. Regular exercise can help to build muscle around joints to protect them. The more muscle, the less stress on the joint. Make sure you keep your puppies lean, well hydrated, and wait an hour or two after your puppy eats before exercise. If you stick by these rules, you lessen the chances of hip and elbow dysplasia, panosteitis, strains, sprains, ligament injuries, bloat, obesity, heart disease and arthritis. Also keep the temperature in mind and watch for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Stop exercise if your puppy no longer wants to play or stops to rest and everything should be fine. Beginners often have a lot of questions: how long should they walk with a German Shepherd, how often should they do it, and what are the rules of feeding and vaccination. Therefore, before the responsible purchase, it is important to get acquainted with the nuances of ownership. At what age can you walk a German Shepherd? Experts have different opinions about the age at which a German Shepherd can go for a walk. There are two polar positions, so owners should consult their breeder or veterinarian. Some experts, when asked how to properly educate the pet, argue that it is categorically not recommended to walk puppies before they reach 3 months old. This is due to the high vulnerability of puppies to infections, which they can catch while playing with other dogs during the period when routine vaccinations have not yet been done. Put napkins or gravel or sand on it. Keep a close eye on your puppy. The negative side of this approach is the increased likelihood of encountering puddles of urine at night even in adulthood. According to the opposite opinion, up to 2 months old puppies still have the immunity received from their mother, so you should start walking outside as early as possible. Increased production of vitamin D due to exposure to sunlight, preventing the development of rachitis. Frequent exposure to nature increases the production of general immunity. If you decide to walk your puppy from an early age, you must choose a small but clean area and prevent him from coming into contact with other animals, especially stray ones. Until the German Shepherd reaches the age of six months , you should carry him in your arms when walking up a flight of stairs. His spine is not yet strong enough, so sprains when going up and down are detrimental. How long should you walk The duration of a walk with a German Shepherd puppy should increase in increments. In the first days, minutes is enough to familiarize the dog with the world and empty the bowels and bladder, but you need to go out times a day. It is better to go out right after feeding. Further, the duration of time outside should be in accordance with age: three months — about half an hour, the puppy should definitely run; four months — from 40 minutes to 1 hour; at six months, the normal mode of walking is established — at least two hours, twice a day. If it is possible to walk longer, you should take advantage of the opportunity. You need to figure out how to walk your German Shepherd correctly. To do this, you need to follow a few tips. It is important to use every walk outside to teach your dog to potty outside the apartment or house. While the dog is still very young but is already used to having to pee outside, spontaneous but short walks at night are likely. Up to 6 months old, it is important to make sure that the dog does not jump over any obstacles. As with ladders, this harms the skeleton and back muscles. You should try to take your German Shepherd outdoors during daylight hours so that he can enjoy the sunlight. After exploring the nearest surroundings, you should decide where to walk for an extended period of time. Great if there is a park or square nearby where it is allowed to walk the dogs. It is also important to go to special doggy playgrounds. You need to give your pet some freedom to get to know other puppies and adult dogs. It allows: Control the movements of the dog and accustom the puppy to the leash. Helps in the initial stages of training. Prevents him from eating unhealthy food picked up off the ground. Provides safety when stray dogs appear. More mature dogs can be leashed to a collar. Answering the question of when you can put the collar on the puppy, many experienced breeders responded with a recommendation to do it as early as possible, so that the puppy got used to the foreign object initially. Before buying a collar or harness, it is important to pay attention to the material: Leather — is the most durable, suitable for walks and training, but it is recommended to replace it in rainy or snowy weather. Leather gets wet, stretches, and loses its durability from moisture; Tarpaulin — holds its shape in all conditions, but is prone to contamination and has a short lifespan; Synthetic — is versatile and does not have the negative qualities of the previous 2. To properly put on the harness or collar during the period of accustomization, you need to create a comfortable atmosphere for the puppy: calmly call by name, and offer a treat. Before buying, it is important to measure the pup. This will allow you to choose the optimal size collar, in which the German shepherd will feel comfortable, and walks will be a pleasure both for the pet and for its loving owner. 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. For the most part, you let the puppy decide his own activities at this stage. Your puppy, at this tender age, does not need exercise; he needs activity. Indoor play consists of informal activities in which you educate your German Shepherd to avoid dangerous behavior while satisfying his need to be active. At this stage, it is more about mental activity games and basic training as opposed to physical activity. This nifty little toy is excellent for young pups. Here are some low-impact games that are appropriate for a German Shepherd puppy at 8 weeks of age: Puppy the Explorer Let your GSD explore the indoors while keeping a close eye on him. This also presents an excellent opportunity to teach him to follow you. You must do this organically. Wait for him to get in his explorer mode and start walking beside him. Remember not to exceed a period of 10 minutes of exercise in the second month and stop whenever your pup shows signs of being tired. The minute mark is the maximum duration, not the minimum. Initially, your puppy will get tired after a few minutes of walking around and exploring. In each subsequent week, he will be engaged for a few more minutes. You might need to use jazz hands to get his curiosity. Once your pup starts following your palm with his head, simply tap his nose and hug him. At this point, you might be tempted to start moving your arm out of his reach to prolong the game. Follow the Wiggling Toy This is the ideal transition exercise that I would start around the tenth week of indoor play. For this, I recommend the Pacific Pups Rope Toys Set from Amazon, not just because it is budget-friendly but because you can use toys of different sizes as your German Shepherd puppy continues to grow. Once you have him sitting close to you, introduce the rope toy and place it on the floor with your hand holding onto one end. Your job then is to make sure he takes at least four steps before he catches the rope toy. Again, this is a high-engagement, low-impact exercise that builds up the foundation for medium-impact activities later on. Jaw and Bodyweight Exercises Recommended age: 3 — 4 months Maximum duration: minutes per day, twice a day Risk factor: low Things to avoid: sprints Your German Shepherd puppy is now three months old; he is building on his training according to the standard puppy training methods, and you can start to interact with him more physically. Still, his growth plates remain open, and you still need to avoid exercises that strain the joints, especially ones located around long bones like limbs. At the same time, your German Shepherd has more energy and may want to exercise more than is good for him. As a result, your role has shifted. Here, instead of letting your puppy have the toy once he follows it and grabs hold of it, you play a small tug of war with him. If your GSD is used to getting the toy after following it, he may get too defensive when you tug it. I recommended the toy set for this reason precisely. The final thing worth remembering about this game is that you always lose! You place the rope toy on the ground and let your German Shepherd puppy follow it as you move it around. Once he grabs hold of it, you use your arm strength to keep it in place. Do not try to pull it too hard. It is also essential that you gradually move up the tug of war in time and position. Gradually you can move the tug toy slightly above the ground. Throughout this, make sure your dog is on a leash because you do not want to encourage grabbing and dashing. Ultimately, you have to let your puppy win! As soon as you release the toy, he gets to have it for a while. This is also the best stage to train him to release objects on command. Make sure your GSD is on a long leash before you start this activity. Associating running with playtime is risky. A long loose leash allows you to bring him back to you gently. Be prepared to spend a lot of time negotiating with your GSD. I suggest playing tug before this because it builds trust. When you roll the ball on the floor, your puppy will get it. You cannot expect him to bring the toy to you. You simply tug the leash gently and bring him close to you. Then, you hold the ball in place. You should not pull it away. That will only cause your German Shepherd to bite down on it harder. When you have it firmly in place, your dog will try to wrestle it free but will eventually let the ball go. You can encourage this by just talking to him in a reassuring tone and using training treats. As soon as he lets go of the ball, put it on the ground and roll it. As GSDs take pleasure in high-engagement activities, the activity itself becomes a reward. In my experience, this will always be a mixed bag. Some dogs never stop giving pushback at the retrieval stage, while others let go of the ball the moment you extend your arm toward it. Stick to softer surfaces, like grass and dirt paths, while your pup is young and their bones are not fully fused. Most GSD owners simply want to take train their puppy to walk on a leash in the neighborhood and park without getting pulled down the street. There are three basic ways to communicate how you want your German Shepherd puppy to walk on a leash with you: the stopping method, the turning method, and the luring method. The Stopping Method Open the door, but only open the door if your dog is sitting. This step could take some time and practice. Once you both are out the door, have your dog sit again. You need to lock the door and your dog needs to sit for this. During your walk, have your dog sit for you at various times. When he does offer a tasty, high value, quick-to-eat treat. Now immediately start walking again and give the release cue. Stand still and wait until he sits. This could take a while. This is important, especially because one day your little pup will be large enough to injure you if they pull you along on the walk wildly! This will take lots of time and patience. But setting a strong and obedient walk foundation allows you to enjoy your walks more and maintain control over your large breed dog as they mature and grow stronger. The Turning Method Use the same steps as above to get outside your house and begin your walk, except instead of stopping and waiting on your dog, turn in the opposite direction and begin walking the other way. Quietly turn around and guide them along when they get a few steps ahead of you. You may also tire of turning. But stick with it. Either of these techniques takes plenty of patience and a strong mental character. But your dog loves to learn. Their mind is like a sponge at this young age, but they also lack obedience skills and an attention span. Use treats and toys to get your dog to follow you. The Treat Luring Method: Hold the treat at their eye level in front of them so they can see and smell the treat. Take one or two steps forward, having them follow the treat with their nose and eyes. They will probably keep following the treat. She loves them! Take a couple of steps forward while squeaking the toy. As they follow, keep stepping forward and squeaking the toy. After a few successful steps forward, let them play with the toy as their reward. Keep up this game to motivate them to follow you. Eventually, your dog gains confidence in their new surroundings and with your help and will walk on their own. Never allow your dog to run loose near traffic. Never unleash your dog in a new area. Never allow your dog to eat objects found on the ground. They could be poisonous! Never think a person running or someone on a bicycle sees your little pup. Puppies are quick moving and can dart in front of a moving person causing them to trip and fall. This can also injure your dog as they may fall on top of them or kick or step on them. Pup is distracted Remember that being outside with your dog is equivalent to you going to Disney Land! Give them a chance to develop their attention skills, or use the high value treats to make them pay attention to you. If you are limited in the places you can go, choose different routes so your dog gets to experience new smells and sights. The dog looks stressed or afraid Find quieter areas to walk in or use the lure and reward method to help them overcome their walking fears. Carry them home and end your walk. Next time, go a shorter distance and take less time. Use positive training and rewards to communicate. The best walking setup for a puppy is a no-pull harness that connects at two different points in the front and back. No-pull harnesses are great for introducing your puppy to structured walks while keeping them safe and happy. Need More Manners Training? Your GSD needs to learn more than just walking nicely. He also needs to learn all the basics of obedience. Use this free training guide to get started today! This activity is usually one of the longest and hardest to teach since you are competing with the sights and smells of the great outdoors! Stay patient, positive, and stick to your training. Your doggie will love you for it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts.

Here are some things to consider: Size Do you want a big or a small golden? Sex Do you want a male or a female? Style Or a stocky, blocky-headed golden retriever? Color Do you want a dark gold or red golden , a cream-colored golden , or something more in the middle? Personality Do you want a calm golden or more of an energetic one? Nobody will be able to tell you what you want out of a dog but yourself. Consider your lifestyle, home, whether or not you have kids , what you like to do on the weekend, etc. If you want to get a good feel for what a puppy will be like, look at their parents. Temperament and health are hereditary and no puppy test or observation will be as accurate as what their parents are like. So that being said, pick a good breeder that is breeding dogs that resemble what you want. There are two important things here: Talk to the breeder and tell them what you want Observe the puppies and look for the puppy that resembles what you want Talk To The Breeder The breeder has spent the last eight weeks with the puppies and knows them best. By telling them what you want they can help you decide the right one for you. But assuming the decisions lays in your hands, this next section will help you out. Selecting A Puppy From The Litter When we went to pick our puppy from the litter we knew exactly what we wanted: a big, calm, sweet boy. He had probably worn himself out trying to impress them because two days later we were wondering what happened to that calm puppy as a fluffy little tornado was tearing around our apartment! Are they submissive? This might give you some insight into their personality. Take note of their energy levels. Consider how your puppy interacts with people. How are they with you, whoever is with you, and the breeder? Are they fearful? A friendly dog will be outgoing and interested in you. Toss your keys or a toy. Put the puppy on their back. Either cradle them in your arms on their back, or roll them on their back on the floor. A dominant pup may squirm a lot, but a well-adjusted pup should calm down shortly. They should be ok with being handled. Shoutout to Vet Street for a few of the tips above. In addition to choosing the right puppy, you also want to choose a healthy puppy. Now even if you have your checklist and run each pup through these tests, it may all go out the window if a puppy picks you. But as we tried to give each puppy a chance and interact with all of them, Oliver kept coming back to my wife and nuzzling his nose into her to tell her that he was the one. Conclusion When picking a puppy you first want to decide what you want. Then pick a breeder that breeds dogs that resemble what you want. When it comes to actually picking the puppy from the litter, talk to the breeder about it and try to see which puppies match up with what you want. However, know that puppies may be different than how they initially appear. And finally, you might not even need to worry about picking the right puppy because the right puppy just might pick you. Have any questions about picking a golden retriever puppy from the litter? Let me know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is about to pick up a puppy, please share this with them! Related articles:. However, picking the right puppy from a litter can be overwhelming and stressful. So, what is the easiest way to pick a golden retriever puppy from a litter? An excellent way to see how your potential puppy will turn out is to take a look at his parents. Most importantly, ask the breeder a lot of questions before adopting. This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! A responsible breeder is your best bet for a healthy puppy. A dog breeder like this will cut corners and overbreed in order to get as many viable Golden retriever pups to sell to unsuspecting puppy buyers as possible. Even if the price for a golden retriever puppy appears to be less initially, the potential long-term health and behavioral problems involved with a puppy from a genetically unhealthy litter will quickly surpass the cost of a puppy from a good breeder. Some of the best ways to find a quality golden retriever puppy breeder is to get referrals from your local veterinarian, a good friend, or a local golden retriever club. You can also find an excellent golden retriever breeder by attending professional dog shows. When you look each puppy over, you want to look specifically at their eyes, coat, build, and skin. Look at their eyes. They should look focused and clear. You want to keep an eye out for any golden retriever puppies that rub their eyes or appear to struggle with their vision, such as squinting. Touch their coat. The coat of your new perfect puppy should be shiny and healthy. Examine their build. Take a look at the overall shape of each puppy. Check to see if they are favoring one foot more than another foot. These could be signs of a more serious health issue. Check their skin. You want to keep an eye out for any flaky skin or skin with bald patches. Look for redness or signs of irritation. There are also instances when a puppy with anxiety will chew or scratch at their skin until the fur falls off. Things to look for when choosing a puppy from a litter. Even the runts are going to be bigger than a lot of other breeds. Many people wonder if the runt of the litter is a good choice when choosing a golden retriever. The runts are typically the pups who are weaker and smaller than the others in their litter. The mother produces the nutrients the litter needs to survive. The runts will be at greater risk of having weaker immune systems and getting infections. Choosing a medium-sized puppy will reduce your chances of getting a runt, an overeater, or a bully overly dominant pup. When it comes to temperament and size, there are differences between females and males. The most significant difference is going to be their size. A male dog will get slightly longer and taller than females, but they will also weigh more. There are also small differences in their faces. They can also come across as more territorial, but this is a very slight difference as well. While the females will still love you unconditionally, the males will be twice as doting and loving. Watch the way each member of the litter interacts with the others. This will tell you how your puppy will react to the other dogs or animals in your home. Extremely shy puppies may not have been socialized well so far, and could grow up to become distrustful dogs that are full of anxieties. Speak with the breeder or the owner of the litter. Ask them tons of questions about how socialized the puppies have been with other dogs and pets so far in their young lives. Make Sure the Golden Retriever Puppy Is the Correct Age Golden retriever puppies should stay with their mothers for eight weeks before being adopted and taken home. As mentioned earlier, the mothers produce vital nutrients that a new puppy needs to survive. If the puppy is taken away too soon, it puts them at greater risk of infections and other complications. It can also increase their anxiety, aggression and make them over-protective of their toys and food. Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! Before seeing the litter, research what a golden retriever puppy of eight weeks looks like. It will vary depending on the dog, but this will help you establish a clear idea of what the puppies will look like when you see the litter. The size and temperament of the parents are passed down to their offspring. What is the temperament of the parents? How does the puppy in question behave around dogs outside their litter? What kind of food are the puppies used to eating? Have the puppies all been dewormed? Are the puppies socialized with other animals besides dogs, such as cats or birds? Summary Adopting a puppy is a significant milestone for a family. But simply picking a Golden Retriever from the litter might not be quite as easy as it seems, remember, this pooch would be with you for the rest of its life, so you have to be sure that the Golden Retriever pup you are selecting is just right for you and your family. There are a lot of things to consider, and lots of questions to be answered: What color should I pick? What temperament would I want? Should I pick a male or female Golden Retriever? Lots of questions that require answers. Your experience with the beautiful Golden Retriever should be enjoyed. First off, is Golden Retriever the right dog for you? I assume that you probably did a lot of research on the Golden Retriever breed before picking a reputable breeder to patronize or work with. The Golden Retriever is quite energetic and clingy, and as such does require a lot of time and attention. It requires a lot of exercises to keep from being destructive and for an adult Golden Retriever, an average of hours would be required daily to properly exercise the breed. And for those allergic to dogs or dog coats, the Golden Retriever might not be the best breed for you. This is because the Golden Retriever is a moderate to heavy shedder during shedding season. You might want to consider a Labrador Retriever, checkout our comparison for more detail: Golden Retriever Vs. When trying to decide what sort of Golden Retriever is best for you, answers to these questions would be needed. Male or Female Golden Retriever? This sort of decision might be quite easy for some and incredibly difficult for others. This is because to some, any gender is good enough they have no preferences , while for the rest, specific reasons or purposes could cause them to favor a particular Golden Retriever gender over the other. Both the male and female Golden Retrievers are very lively and equally playful at this stage of their lives. The only slight difference, however, that might occur or might be noticeable between both breeds might be size, as the male Golden Retriever is only slightly bigger or larger than the female when looking at the same litter. As both Golden Retrievers approach their individual sexual maturity, you might begin to notice a lot more differences. A lot of generalization is done between both, the male and female genders of the Golden Retriever breed. Some might say that the male Golden Retriever is a lot more hyperactive and could be harder to train than the female Golden Retriever, or that the female Golden Retriever matures quite faster than the male Golden Retriever, but again, these are all generalizations and speculations. Another popular generalization or myth is that the female Golden Retriever is a lot more independent and affectionate than the male Golden Retriever, again, it could still just be a myth. What Size of the Golden Retriever should I pick? As we already stated earlier, the gender of the Golden Retriever has a huge impact on the size of the Golden Retriever. Golden Retriever males are bigger than Golden Retriever females when comparing two Golden Retrievers from the same litter. What style of the Golden Retriever should I go with? Deciding on what Golden Retriever style you would like is equally important. Are you looking for an athletic Golden Retriever or a slim Golden Retriever, or are you in search of a more stocky and blocky-headed Golden? What Color of Golden Retriever should I go with? Of course, the Golden Retriever has a variety of different coat colors that you could be interested in. Some of these colors are; red-gold or dark gold, or perhaps, maybe a cream-colored Golden Retriever. Either way, there are some interesting Golden Retriever colors to choose from. What sort of personality should I look for? This is yet another decision that can only be made by you. The personality of the Golden Retriever you choose is quite important, so you definitely need an answer to this question. Are you looking for an energetic Golden Retriever dog or a calmer and more gentle companion? You might be searching for a friendly and outgoing Golden Retriever or perhaps a shy or reserved Golden Retriever. The breeder should know them best, being that they have spent approximately 8 weeks with the puppies. The breeder should be able to tell in each litter which of the Golden Retriever puppies is more dominant, which is shy, which is, which barks a lot, which is calmer, and of course, which of the Golden Retriever pups is most energetic. So, by simply telling him what exactly you are looking for in a Golden Retriever, he should be able to make helpful suggestions and recommendations. This is quite common in breeders today, they usually do the picking for you based on the requests and information you give them, which I personally feel is better. These 6 tips would be quite beneficial in deciding which Golden Retriever puppy is best for you. Does it dominate the other Golden Retriever puppies or is it a more submissive puppy? Try to notice the energy levels of each Golden Retriever pup A great way to figure out the temperament of a Golden Retriever pup would be by checking out their energy levels. A Golden Retriever pup that spends half its time barking and the other half running around is a clear indication that it is anything but calm. Notice how your chosen pup reacts or interacts with people In addition to watching how your pup reacts with other littermates, you also have to watch how they react with people. When you interact with them, how do they react, also watch their interaction with the breeder and basically strangers? Do they react in a curious manner? Are they quite fearful? Or are they the outgoing and friendly type that seems to be quite interested in interacting with humans? Try tossing a toy or your keys at the pup This is a great way to identify how alert your Golden Retriever puppy really is. Once you toss your keys or a toy at the pup, try to notice how quickly your Golden Retriever reacts to it. Does your pup run after it? Or does it follow the toy or keys with its eyes? Try putting the Golden Retriever pup on its back As you pick and cradle the Golden Retriever pup, you could try placing it on its back while in your arms or placing it on its back while on the floor. For a dominant Golden Retriever pup, it should squirm or struggle a bit, while for a more submissive and calmer puppy, it should also struggle for a bit but shortly relax. Try Caressing your Golden Retriever puppy You could try caressing your chosen Golden Retriever pup by gently rubbing its ears, tails, paws, and mouth. A calm Golden Retriever puppy should be cool with it. Note: Be sure to check the health of your chosen pup before choosing. Also, your Golden Retriever might pick you. This is not new, as some dog owners have shared their various experiences. Some pups could run up to you all sweetly and cute looking for a cuddle, some could pee on you while others might even go as far as peeing on you, but all in all, when a puppy picks you, you would know. Final Thoughts Picking a Golden Retriever puppy that is just right for you and your family is not an easy task, but it is quite important as this dog would be with you for a huge part of its life. So do ensure you stay attentive when choosing. Ensure that your chosen pup is quite healthy, ensure they are well tested and strong. Following all the steps listed above should be enough to help you when selecting a Golden Retriever pup. In all you do, please ensure that you shower your new Golden Retriever with so much love and care. Drink a lot of water, eat well and of course, always stay devoted to dogs. How will we ever decide? Our Selection Process If you have ever chosen a puppy from a breeder, you were probably given a thirty-minute time slot, a pile of ten puppies and no behavior or temperament information. You likely chose your puppy based on color or gender, or both. You might have chosen the first puppy who came up to you, the puppy lying by himself over in the corner, or the puppy who kept crawling into your lap. Maybe you chose the runt because you felt sorry for her. Every single puppy has a purpose. Some dogs are meant to hunt or search, others are meant to perform valuable tasks, and still others are meant to offer comfort. Most dogs are meant for lifelong companionship. Service dogs and therapy dogs serve very different purposes. The testing and selection process for each is different, as is the training. A dog can never truly be a family pet AND a service dog. A therapy dog can never be an emotional support animal and a family pet, because an ESA is bonded to one person while a family pet divides his time with various family members or friends. Candidates for our therapy and service dog programs are chosen first We do not consider gender or color when temperament testing or placing dogs into our programs We can not control the number of puppies in a litter, nor the number of males and females in a litter. We usually take three male deposits and three female deposits prior to the birth of the litter. Once the litter is born and we know how many puppies we have, we accept additional deposits. We follow a puppy protocol from the day puppies are born, exposing them to different sounds and surfaces. We hold them in different positions and we move them around increasingly. We work with their pressure points and we use essential oils to relax and stimulate them. We construct these profiles based on observed behaviors during weeks such as barking, growling, shyness, food assertiveness, independence, maturity, patience, motivation. Temperament testing occurs during week 6. If the family with the third deposit on the list wants a pet, we will suggest the puppy ies that most closely match their family profile. If the puppy they wanted was selected by the family with the first deposit, they may then move to their second choice. A family who makes the LAST deposit in a litter may not get their first choice, however we do our very best to accommodate everyone. While families may have a color or gender preference, we suggest being open-minded and willing to consider the puppy with the temperament that best fits you and your needs. We do our best to get the right puppy for you, and we are unable to allow a family to wait until pick up day to select a puppy. Above everything, we must ask our families to trust us during this process. Our experience with goldens and goldendoodles, and the relationships we have with our families, have made us what we are today. If you do not feel comfortable with the selection process, please seek another breeder. By placing a deposit, you are agreeing with our testing and selection process. Your deposit is non-refundable, but it may be forwarded to a future litter. The selection process differs from those of other breeders and priority is given to our program. We make every effort to match puppies which best fit family profiles that are submitted in online puppy applications. We cannot determine the number of puppies or the number of males and females in a litter. When necessary, placement decisions will be made according to the order in which deposits are received. You love me when I am not lovable. You find me in the darkness. You keep my secrets and lick my tears. You teach me to live like someone left the gate open. These puppies come from parents selected through extensive screening processes to ensure they are high-quality. They will be socialized and trained to become a great family member. Here are 6 tips to help you choose the best puppy from a litter. You want to understand the puppy selection process and ensure you make the right choice. This will help ensure that you pick up a healthy puppy from a healthy litter. To learn more about how golden retriever puppies grow and develop, speak with the breeder about what a golden retriever puppy of eight weeks looks like. Puppies that are too calm may not have the same energy level as the other puppies in the litter. It is also essential to take note of temperament and whether or not they seem outgoing and friendly. Some puppies may be more comfortable interacting with strangers than others, while others may take time to warm up and show interest in new people and places. Additionally, it can be helpful to interact with puppies in their litter and see how they interact with each other. This can give you an idea of how your puppy will react as an adult dog. The Volhard test is another way of assessing the temperament of puppies. This test involves placing them in containers and observing their reactions to stimuli. By seeing how puppies respond to multiple stimuli, it can be easier to determine their personalities and whether they are bold or submissive. Test its alertness by tossing a toy or your keys in front of it. Look for puppies that react quickly and run after the toy or keys. If the puppy is well-adjusted and displays a good temperament, it should be ok with being handled. However, it may not be suitable for you if the puppy shows signs of fear or aggression, such as growling, baring teeth, or acting aggressively toward people or other dogs. It is also good to check for puppies with bright eyes, clean ears, fluffy and soft fur, and a puppy that bounces around when walking. This shows that they are healthy puppies ready for new homes. Selecting the right puppy from a litter can be a challenging task. To ensure you pick the right puppy, observe how they respond when put on their back. Rolling the puppy on the floor can help determine if they are a dominant pup or a well-adjusted pup. Before taking the puppy home, ensure they are the correct age — 8 weeks old. It is also essential to have the puppy comfortable with being handled, including touching its paws, ears, mouth, and tail. When picking a puppy from a litter, it is vital to take time and patience to observe and interact with them. This will help you select the right puppy for your family. When picking a puppy from a litter, it is essential to pay attention to its paws, ears, mouth, and tail. Touching these areas will help you get to know the puppy better and determine if it has the right temperament for your family. As you are caressing the puppy, check for signs of a good response, such as a calm temperament or relaxed posture. You may also check for alignment of teeth or unhealthy pink gums. When choosing a puppy from a litter, wrap it in a familiar towel to ease the transition into your new home. This will help calm it down and allow you time to bond with it. After picking up your new puppy, take it on a walk to show him where to eliminate it. When choosing a Golden Retriever puppy from a litter, there are a few factors to consider. Ideally, select a healthy puppy with no physical or conformation problems. If you plan to use your new dog for hunting or show competition, it is essential to check for exemplary character. Research the breeder to ensure they have experience producing healthy and genetically-true litters. Look for breeders involved in golden retriever clubs, obedience clubs, or performance clubs, as these organizations help preserve the breed. Besides, reading breed standards and verifying that the purchased puppies have been raised under good conditions is vital. Good breeders should be selected to ensure the puppy is of the desired temperament and health. This will help you make a well-informed decision, picking a pup that resembles the qualities you want in a dog. It is vital to look for a puppy that lets you play with him, picks him up without struggling too much, and seems happy and content. Additionally, it is essential to consider what qualities you want in a dog and pick a puppy that resembles these qualities. Doing so can ensure your new family member is healthy and happy. These playful and devoted companions are great for families and make excellent pets for all ages. If you want to add a new furry friend to your family, consider a Golden Retriever puppy from a reputable breeder. Getting a golden retriever puppy from a breeder is an exciting and rewarding endeavor. Your new golden will be well-socialized with people and other animals and learn basic obedience and other skills through regular training. However, selecting the right puppy is vital. While picking a golden retriever puppy from a litter is a personal decision, these tips should help you make an informed decision. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Ans: When you are looking to buy a Golden Retriever puppy, make sure to do your research first. Here are some key points that you should consider: Look for a reputable breeder with experience in breed preservation efforts. Avoid buying a puppy from a puppy mill, as they often cut corners and overbreed. Puppy mills sell puppies at high prices without checking their health or temperament. Research the breeder and their practices before purchasing a puppy. Ans: When picking a puppy from a litter, it is essential to understand the different personality traits of puppies. Some of the most common are playfulness, energy levels, interaction with people, and temperament. Once you have identified the personality traits of a few puppies, you can then observe the litter more closely. This will help you determine which pup is the right fit for you. If there are any signs of illness, such as red eyes or runny noses, do not choose that puppy. Puppies should be removed from the litter by weeks of age to ensure optimal mental development. The breeder will then be able to select the puppy for you. Ans: There is no right or wrong answer when picking a golden retriever puppy. Both male and female puppies are energetic and playful at the puppy stage, but male puppies may be slightly bigger than females. It depends on the individual puppy and its personality. How exciting! Puppies are adored by everyone. Not every puppy will be the right fit for you. Choose a Trusted Breeder A responsible breeder is the best place to find a well-bred, healthy dog, whether you are looking for a family pet or companion animal. Breeders carefully choose the parents of each litter to emphasize desirable traits and minimize defects in their lineage. What is the best way to find a reputable and responsible breeder? A carefully planned breeding program As a Golden Retriever breeder, it is our goal to raise healthy, socialized puppies that represent the breed well and are ready to go into new homes with ease We guarantee the genetic health of each puppy we place for a period of two years Meet Your Puppy In-Person A puppy should never, ever be purchased without seeing it first. Use your senses to judge the environment. Buying a dog requires good observation skills. Clean conditions, plenty of space for the dogs, and a look of health and well-being in all regards are essential when visiting your chosen breeder. Puppies should be healthy, well-fed, lively, friendly, and free of any illness-related symptoms like runny noses, itchy eyes, blisters, or fleas. As a breeder, the puppy should be raised in the house, with normal daily activities so that it becomes accustomed to sounds and human interaction. When in doubt, walk away. Trust your instincts. A good breeder would not breed puppies without her present. If a breeder is unwilling to let you see her, walk away. Ask as well if you can see the father. This may not always be possible as the father may be owned by another breeder and used exclusively for stud purposes. At least three generations should be included the parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents. Lastly, find out how often the mother of the litter has been bred and the number of litters she has had — If she has had multiple litters in a year, then this is too frequent. Ask Questions A reputable breeder will conduct an interview with you. You will be evaluated carefully before the puppy is given to you. Breeders who care about placing their puppies in good homes take the interview process seriously. You should also expect the breeder to have a lot of knowledge about the breed and be able to answer any questions you may have. Breeders should also know about the major problems within the breed. Breeders of reputable dogs will have developed a breeding program that reduces or even eliminates the risk of such disorders occurring in their dogs. Ensure that both the mother and the father have formal health clearances even if the father is not present, the clearances should be on file. The mother and father should be at least 24 months old to receive final health clearances. No reputable breeder would sell their puppies without getting them inoculated and having a general checkup. Our pups undergo these simple exercises to prepare them for life. Since we see the benefits of Early Neurological Stimulation and know that it will help our pups grow into lovable canines, we will continue to use it. Take Your Puppy to the Vet Schedule a new puppy vet visit within a few days of picking up your new puppy, no matter what the breeder has already done. Any potential health concerns will be identified through a full physical examination and lab tests. The breeder intends to make sure that each puppy is in good health when adopted or delivered. Due to this, we ask that the buyer make every reasonable effort to have the puppy examined by a vet within three days after taking possession. Can You Return The Puppy? Under strict circumstances, we will offer returns on puppies. Is There a Contract? We do have a sales contract available for every puppy we sell. It is advised that your read the entire contract before signing. A copy will be provided to you. Picking Up Your Puppy It is ideal to pick up your puppy at the breeder, but we understand that this may not be feasible for everyone. If you cannot pick up your puppy in person, we offer two options for puppy travel and delivery : Puppy Air Travel Airport Selection We will find and select the most convenient airport that provides a pet program and an incoming flight schedule that is most convenient for the pup. Coordination To make sure your pup is well-prepared for the day of travel, we coordinate with you and the breeder. Our team will work with you and the breeder to coordinate schedules, and you will receive an itinerary for all flights. Puppy Pickup Our team will transport your puppy from the breeder to the airport. This is a great way for us to spend extra time with your pup to ensure that their travel day is as easy as possible! Accommodations The airline-approved kennel your puppy travels in includes absorbent bedding, food, and water. Joyful Reunion We will keep in touch to let you know your pup is on its way, and we look forward to hearing the good news that your pup has arrived safe and sound! Puppy Pickup Your puppy will be picked up from the breeder and brought to your home or a prearranged third-party location. Joyful Reunion This is the best part! Bringing the love of your life into your arms from our arms to yours is always a pleasure! A dog breeder needs to provide all the necessary documents when you purchase a dog. You should expect to be provided with proof of vaccinations and health certificates. In addition, papers verify that a puppy was bred ethically. Expect the following: Sale contract. This could cost you thousands of dollars in medical bills down the road. On the other hand, when you buy the animal from a licensed Golden Retriever breeder, you can pick out your future puppy with confidence. Not only will proof of his pedigree show that your breeder is certified, but it will also verify that your puppy is a true Golden Retriever. The best puppy breeders take pride in providing healthy dogs through careful genetic research. They should be so confident in their work that they offer you a health guarantee , which will tell you what to do if your puppy faces any unforeseen health issues. Since breeders are there from the day the puppies and their parents! And picking the right pet for your family starts with finding a breeder you can trust. No matter how nice they seem or how attractive their website looks, you should always do a little bit of research before choosing a Golden Retriever breeder. Here are important points that all breeders should address: Image Source Does the breeder give back to the breed? Breed preservation should be the primary goal of Golden Retriever breeders. They should participate in keeping the species alive through membership at a Golden Retriever breed dog club, a performance club, or an obedience club. What type of experience does the breeder have? Do they stay true to the pure genetic traits of the breed? Do they provide health screenings and health guarantees? Can you meet the puppies and parents in person? How many litters do the females have each year? Female Golden Retrievers can have up to two litters per year. However, breeders who follow ethical practices will only allow the females to have four to six litters in their lifetime. A female can breed between the ages of two and eight. Once you choose a breeder that seems like a good fit for you and your family, you should write up some questions to ask them. And in return, expect some questions about you, your lifestyle, and your home! One of the first things any breeder you inquire about should provide is a list of former buyers. Reviews posted online are one thing, but being able to talk with customers directly speaks volumes about the legitimacy of the breeder. When you speak with their former customers, ask questions about their buying experience and how their dog is doing years after purchase. Puppies should receive some level of preventative care that is appropriate for their age. Newborn puppies up to eight weeks old should stay with their mothers, but they will also receive their first round of core vaccines during these few weeks. They should have a yearly examination by a licensed veterinarian that will perform vaccines, flea, tick, and heartworm prevention, as well as general health checkups. A reputable, passionate breeder will be more than happy to receive updates and questions about their puppies well into adulthood. With that being said, the breeder should also provide a health guarantee. A health guarantee states that you are not financially liable for any genetic issues in the puppy, as long as the health condition is verified by a certified veterinarian. This is an essential point that you might not think twice about. A good Golden Retriever breeder will ask questions to determine if your household is a good fit for their puppy. Image Source 1 Why do you want a dog? This is a simple yet important question that you should have an answer to. Golden Retriever breeders that dedicate their livelihood to continuing the pure genetic bloodline will want to know what appeals to you about these energetic companions. Additionally, the breeder might ask who will be walking, feeding, and playing with the dog. Golden Retriever puppies require tons of attention, especially during the first two years of their lives. If the breeder asks this, they want to know how your children will be participating in the handling of the puppy. They also want to understand how you plan to introduce the puppy to other pets so they can coexist safely within the same home. No matter how nice a breeder may seem, you want to avoid accidentally contributing to backyard breeders or a puppy mill disguised as a reputable breeder. Doing so can cost you thousands of dollars in medical bills and years of potential heartbreak. Here are some of the most critical and obvious warning signs of an untrustworthy breeder. Less experienced breeders will charge on the lower end, and more experienced breeders usually with generations of pure genetic proof! Additionally, some of the best breeders will only sell trained puppies to ensure their pooches are family- and forever-home ready. Therefore, you should receive standard documentation upon adopting your new Golden Retriever puppies, such as care instructions, registration papers, vaccination records, and necessary contracts. The contract may also state that you agree to surrender the puppy instead of adopting him out to a shelter or the pound. Some warranties will say that the breeder should have the right to reclaim the puppy in an unexpected situation like this. If you do ask for references, and they give you a list of written reviews instead of contact information for former clients, this is a red flag. A refusal for a tour means that the breeder knows potential clients may be turned away by the environment. If you are invited to tour a facility, learn about what a professional kennel should look and smell like first. The bottom line is, you need to do plenty of research.

We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Auburn New York and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. We have answers. What should I know about Golden Retriever puppies for sale near Auburn? Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds due to their gentle nature, intelligence, and loyalty. They are typically very friendly and social and can get along with dogs and people of all ages. As a breed, they are very active and require regular exercise, such as walks, running and playing. It is important to provide sufficient stimulation and mental exercise to prevent boredom and related behaviours. Golden Retrievers are also known for their highly trainable nature and intelligence, so you may opt for dog sports or training classes to keep them entertained and challenged. With Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Auburn, what is their coat like? The Golden Retriever has a medium to long length double coat that is composed of a relatively thick layer of straight or slightly wavy outer coat that lies over a soft, dense undercoat. The coat color is commonly a shade of golden, and it can vary from light to dark. This breed has a lot of feathering on their legs, throat and tails, as well as distinctive eyebrows and beard. Grooming the Golden Retriever should be done regularly to keep the coat healthy and soft, with brushing needed to prevent it from matting. How do I know what not to feed Auburn Golden Retriever puppies for sale? It is important to know what foods to avoid when considering an appropriate diet for your Golden Retriever. The best rule of thumb is to look out for fatty treats and human food such as chocolate, onions, and garlic. Additionally, raw or undercooked meat also poses an unnecessary risk to your dog's health. It is best to consult your veterinarian on a diet plan for your dog as well as to ensure your Golden Retriever's age, health, and lifestyle are taken into account. If feeding table scraps, be sure to reduce their regular food intake by that amount or even more. Do Golden Retriever puppies in Auburn have any kind of special requirements? Golden Retrievers can be a wonderful addition to any family, however, they do have some special requirements that need to be taken into account. Firstly, they will need plenty of exercise and love, so those who own them need to have the time and energy to commit to their pet's wellbeing. They also benefit from regular grooming, as their long coats tend to become matted or tangled quickly. Additionally, they need socializing from a young age, as they can form strong bonds with other dogs and people. How fast do Golden Retrievers for sale in Auburn grow? As with any breed of dog, it can be difficult to predict how large your Golden Retriever puppy will be. Generally, this breed can weigh between pounds and stand at roughly inches tall. However, it is important to remember that how big a Golden Retriever puppy will be is also dependent on its parents' sizes. Additionally, certain factors—such as nutrition and genetics—may influence their growth. To determine how big your pup could get, research the estimated weight and size of its parents. Are Golden Retriever puppies near Auburn active dogs? Golden Retrievers are incredibly active dogs with a trait of operating at a high energy level. Their love of exercise and their ability to easily learn makes them a great breed to help keep up with an active owner's lifestyle. Not only do they require daily outdoor activities, like long walks and runs.With the proper exercise and mental stimulation, Golden Retrievers can be an amazing companion and exercise partner, providing years of enjoyable activities and a wagging tail. Do Golden Retrievers in Auburn make good family dogs? Yes, Golden Retrievers are an excellent choice for families. Not only are they loyal and loving, but they are also incredibly gentle and tolerant. They are also easily trainable and very intelligent, meaning they quickly learn house rules and behaviors. They're also very friendly and outgoing, often eager to make friends. This makes them a great choice for families that like to entertain often. Furthermore, their even temperaments mean they get along with children and other animals, so they can fit into any and every family dynamic. How many minutes per day do I need to train Auburn Golden Retrievers for sale? Training a Golden Retriever doesn't require an exact amount of time per day. However, it is recommended that you set aside at least minutes each day to teach them basic commands, as well as to play interactive games that help with obedience, agility, and recall. Introducing your pup to these activities early on will also help in establishing a bond between the two of you. When training, strive to keep your sessions short, consistent, and fun to ensure that your Golden Retriever's attention remains focused. You will be able to find all their current contact information, as well as a link to their website, so you can see what puppies they currently have available for sale. We provide you with all this information so that you can research each breeder individually and find the one that has your perfect puppy available! If you are considering getting a Labradoodle, you'll want to check out the incredible book "The Complete Guide to Labradoodles". It's written by expert owner and veterinarian Dr. The book contains a lot of really useful insights that can help a new owner avoid common mistakes that most Labradoodle owners make. It's widely available, so pick up a copy if you see one, here is the link to grab one on Amazon, or you can download the audiobook version here. If you can't find the perfect Labradoodle puppy in your state, try checking at your local animal shelter or rescue organization. Many Labradoodles young and old need a loving home and adopting one can be a great way to save a life. We are so happy that you have chosen Local Puppy Breeders to help you find the puppy of your dreams. In addition to visiting us often here, you can check us out on Facebook , Twitter , and Pinterest for more information, pictures, and videos! Questions about Poodle puppies for sale in Auburn, NY? We have answers. What class of dog are Poodle puppies for sale near Auburn? Poodles are an incredibly popular breed of dog, belonging to the class toy or utility, depending on their size. But regardless of which size of Poodle you own or are considering, all sizes come from the same breed and have similar characteristics. Smaller Poodles are classified as Toy Poodles, while medium-sized or large Poodles are categorized as Standard Poodles. Are Poodle puppies for sale in Auburn hypoallergenic? Poodles are often considered hypoallergenic, since they can produce less dander than many other breeds of dogs. Dander is typically the main cause of pet allergies, so poodles are generally a good option for people with allergies. They are also generally considered to have low shedding, which further reduces allergens in the home, and because they come in many colors and sizes, they can fit into virtually any home. However, it is important to note that no breed of dog is completely hypoallergenic. What should I feed Auburn Poodle puppies for sale? Poodles have unique nutritional needs, so it's important to understand your dog's specific needs and choose a food that best meets those needs. Generally speaking, the best diet for your Poodle should be a high-quality, nutrient-rich, balanced dog food that has been formulated to meet the nutritional needs specific to the breed, size, and age. It's important to choose food that is made of high-quality ingredients and features fresh meats, lots of antioxidants, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Do Poodle puppies in Auburn have any kind of special requirements? Yes, Poodles have special requirements that all owners should be aware of. Poodles require regular grooming, as their coat will quickly become matted if it isn't trimmed and clipped on a regular basis. Additionally, these dogs are highly intelligent and require regular stimulation to stay entertained and occupied. This stimulation can come in the form of both physical and mental exercises, such as regular walks and puzzle games. Poodles also tend to have some health issues that owners must be aware of, such as hip dysplasia and cataracts. How fast do Poodles for sale in Auburn grow? Poodle puppies come in various sizes, and are typically classified by weight. Toy Poodles range from 4 to 6 pounds; miniature Poodles range from 10 to 15 pounds; standard Poodles range from 45 to 70 pounds. Generally speaking, a puppy's weight should double or triple by the time it is 6 months old, and again by the time it is 1 year old. Therefore, a good estimate for determining the eventual size of your Poodle puppy is to double or triple their weight at around 6 and 12 months. Do Poodle puppies near Auburn like to swim? Poodles are known for enjoying activities that involve spending time in the water. They naturally love swimming and can easily take to the activity. In fact, Poodles are natural swimmers and often perform wonderfully in water-related competitions. In addition to being strong swimmers, Poodles are also very agile and responsive, making them ideal candidates for swimming activities. With the right amount of exercise, a Poodle can become a skilled swimmer and can often develop quite an affinity for the activity. Do Poodles in Auburn get along with other pets? Yes, Poodles can usually get along with other pets if introduced to them properly. Depending on the pet, this process should take place slowly and under controlled conditions. Poodles are typically easy-going dogs that can adjust to different personalities, but it's important to properly socialize them with all types of animals, including cats, birds, rabbits, and even reptiles. When introducing a Poodle to other pets, it's best to create a positive environment with plenty of treats and establish good behavior from the outset. How do I train my Auburn Poodles for sale? Poodles are known to be highly intelligent, making them easy to train. The key to successfully training a Poodle is to be consistent with your commands and to make sure rewards and other positive reinforcement are used to encourage good behavior. Before you start, it is important to establish yourself as the leader. This will help your Poodle to feel secure and confident, which in turn will help them to listen to your commands more attentively. Next, make sure your commands are clear, consistent, and repeated until the desired behavior is achieved.

Also, they are non-shedding. During the past few decades, breeders have begun to experiment with cross-breeding poodles with other breeds for various reasons. No specific description is offered here for each of the Poodle dog mixes featured. Some of the more popular Poodle dog mixes are featured on their own breeder pages on this site. These include Cockapoos, Labradoodles, Goldendoodles and Schnoodles. If you don't see what you are looking for here, try an advanced search in our classifieds. When looking for a new puppy, be sure to tell the breeder about your lifestyle. Then, it can be determined if that particular breed is a good fit for you. About the Breeders Club. Once you purchase your new found friend, you will want to provide it the best in pet health care. The discount catalog also features collars, leashes, carriers, general pet care products and much more. We require all advertisers to agree to our advertising terms. You should ask the Poodle Mix breeders you talk with for references from past buyers and veterinarians. They are also popular choices for families with allergies, as they do not shed as much as other breeds. Poodle Mixes come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and colors, making them one of the most popular hybrid dog breeds. While all Poodle Mixes share some common features, their individual personalities can vary widely. Some Poodle Mixes are confident and outgoing, while others are more reserved and shy. Some breeds tend to be independent thinkers, while others are more eager to please. The best way to determine what personality type is right for you is to meet with a local breeder or rescue organization that specializes in Poodle Mixes. Poodle Mix Puppy Health Considerations Though generally very happy and long-lived — with an average lifespan of around years — our Poodle Mixes for sale are not without their unique health concerns. Like every breed of dog, there are a few conditions you should be aware of before you consider purchasing one of our Poodle Mix puppies for sale. Understanding the risks allows you to know the signs and prevent small health concerns from turning into big ones. Of course, not all Poodle Mixes will develop these conditions, but it is important to be aware of them. Finding a Poodle Mix puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can also dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. Regardless of the type of Poodle Mix you have, there are a few things you need to know about coat care. First, regular brushing is essential to prevent mats and tangles. Finally, Poodle Mixes need to be groomed every weeks by a professional groomer. This includes a bath, brush out, trimming of the coat, and nail clipping. By following these simple coat care tips, you can help your Poodle Mix look and feel his best. Meet Poodle Mix Puppies for Sale. If a Mini Poodle Mix takes after their Mini Poodle parent, they will be a small dog that is affectionate, loving, and playful. Miniature Poodles are intelligent, sensitive dogs with cheerful dispositions. They tend to get along well with children, other pets, and other dogs. They even tend to be good with strangers as long as they have been properly socialized. They do tend to alert you of things, which can make them prone to barking. Working to train your dog to stop barking early on can keep this from becoming a nuisance behavior. If the other parent breed has similar traits, then you can expect a similar temperament from a Miniature Poodle Mix. You can also meet the mother in person to see what temperament she has and the behavior she is modeling for her puppies. The breeder should have started socialization and training. However, it is up to you to continue to train and socialize a puppy once you get them home to ensure they grow into a well-rounded dog. A Miniature Poodle is a highly adaptable dog that does well in apartments as well as larger homes and in most climates. Because they are so people-oriented, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. If the other parent breed is similar, then you can also expect a high adaptable Miniature Poodle Mix. The other breed in the mix is likely to have their own quirks, so you do still want to ask the breeder about them. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? Just as a mix can inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, they could also inherit some combination of them or all of them. Make sure you ask about the health history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Miniature Poodles tend to be intelligent dogs that are eager to please and easy to train. They tend to be a good fit for owners of all experience levels. As long as the other parent breed is also a good fit for all experience levels, then you can expect a Mini Poodle Mix to be highly trainable as well. If the other parent breed is more difficult to train, then you will want to prepare for that possibility in a Miniature Poodle Mix. A mixed-breed can inherit a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is some combination of them both. If a Miniature Poodle Mix inherits the Poodle coat, it will be low-shedding, require daily brushing, and require professional grooming every weeks. Once or twice monthly nail trims keeps them from growing too long. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Brushing teeth daily or using an enzyme toothpaste every day in addition to cleanings at the vet as needed are ideal dental care for dogs. Although they are small, Miniature Poodles are high-energy dogs that require daily walks plus playtime and extra activity to be happy and healthy. If the other parent breed is also a high-energy breed, then you can expect a Mini Poodle Mix to also be a high-energy dog. If the other parent breed has a lower energy level, a Mini Poodle Mix could take after them, but you still want to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog. A Miniature Poodle is usually inches tall and weighs pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother, so you want to ask the breeder about them. Miniature Poodles generally live for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span in a Mini Poodle Mix. Featured Miniature Poodle Mix Article.

Adjustable treat dispensing toy Large chamber fits whole meals Weighted bottom wobbles. With a curved, wobbling bottom and a thinner cylinder-like top, this toy is shaped specifically for the mouth of a Labradoodle, making it easier to pick up and walk around with. Goughnuts tough dog toys are long lasting and will keep your dog busy.Our super durable dog toys are nearly indestructible, but if your dog manages to damage them, We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Made in California, this dog toy is shaped like a ring and can float, bounce, flex, and stand up, making it perfect for playing a long game of fetch. With 4 sizes and 6 colors to choose from, this 21 dollar toy is a great investment for your money. With a long-lasting guarantee, Goughnuts also has a replacement policy that says it will send you a new Ring Toy if your dog ever destroys the one you have. Made of a natural compounded rubber in the United States, this toy is great for dental hygiene and is filled with treats to encourage chewing while gradually feeding snacks to your Labradoodle. Labradoodles in particular love this toy because it challenges their intellect. They tend to get bored easily and love the smell of their treats hiding inside this FDA-approved puzzle. Perfect for solo play or playtime with the family, it comes in 2 sizes and 2 colors including red and green. Bring it on. Benebones are tougher than real bones and last for weeks. Trust us, dogs can tell the difference. Want to chat? This toy comes in 3 delicious flavors that will encourage your dog to play and chew it enthusiastically. For meat-loving dogs, chicken and bacon flavors are available. A Labradoodle sits on a couch next to a Pomeranian. Great for.Swivel to hide treats under the.Easy to.Do not leave toys with unsupervised pets. Remove and replace toy if damaged. This toy is considered somewhat eco-friendly because it is made from a wood-plastic composite instead of all rubber or plastic. This dog puzzle is a good stimulation tool for Labradoodles, especially when playing alone because it takes both interest and concentration. To operate and solve this game, your dog must interact by pushing levers and swiveling flippers to reach hidden treats and goodies. By following a series of steps, they will push blocks into holes to release their treats. It also features handles that.Multi-Use Toy: The two-in-one ball toy offers twice the fun, excitement, mental stimulation, and worthwhile interactive play. Its tough exterior makes it super durable and ideal for routine fetch.Hours of fun and bonding are guaranteed between you and your dog. Assorted Colors: Choose from an assortment of fun colors and pick from one of two shape choices: Ball or Football. Available in 2 Sizes: Medium and Large. Available in both medium and large sizes, this toy weighs roughly 1 pound and is great for Labradoodles of all ages. Your Labradoodle will be entertained and occupied for hours trying to figure out how to reach the tennis ball inside of the jumbler itself. And when buying labradoodle toys this is a good idea, as they are known to be quite intelligent, so exercising the mind is equally as important as the body. This ball has an interior tennis ball and makes loud squeaks to make playtime a lot of fun. The built-in handle also makes sure that it is very easy to pick up and shake around for your dog. And also for you to throw for a great time of fetch! Pros: Both fun for brawling for your dog, and as a fetch toy The interior tennis ball also makes it a nice interactive toy Also serves a squeaky toy Cons: Not well suited for puppies or very young dogs, as it is quite large and weighs 1. It makes a perfect sleeping buddy for your dog. Pros: Just look at this thing! The durability of this is the reason they give a lifetime replacement guarantee, so they trust the durability of their product. Many users report back saying that their dog is usually able to destroy most toys in a matter of minutes, but this has lasted them weeks without more than some teeth marks in it. Without much training you will be able to throw this very far, so not only is it fun for your dog, you will also enjoy it. Throw it into a lake and watch your labradoodle jump into the water to try and retrieve it. Labradoodles are intelligent and have the retriever instinct. They love to chew and tug to exercise their strong jaw. A Labradoodles toy box should include one toy from each of the following categories: Puzzle Toys: Puzzle toys work to occupy your Labradoodles mind rather than enhance their physical fitness. The intelligence Labradoodles inherit from their Poodle parent makes them enjoy all problem solving toys. When choosing a puzzle toy for your Labradoodle ensure the toy will be challenging enough for your dog. A toy that is easily solved will lead to your dog becoming bored and loose interest in the toy. Chew Toys: Most dog breeds love to chew and Labradoodles are no exception. Labradoodles can be strong meaning the chew toy you select should be durable quality. Having a number of different chew toys for your Labradoodle gives them choice and will decrease boredom. Tug Toys: Tug toys requires the owner to pull against the Labradoodle. Tug toys allow the Labradoodle to share bonding time with the owner. If you happen to have two Labradoodle dogs, a tug toy is a great toy for them to play with together. Retriever Toys: Retriever toys or fetch toys are a great way to bond with your Labradoodle. Being an active breed they love to run and also love to please their owner. A fetch toy can allow them to do both of these things. Fetch toys are generally basic balls, plastic squeak bones or similar so it is important to use a fetch toy that is tough enough to survive the strength of a Labradoodle. Labradoodle Treat Toys Below you can find the top toys for your Labradoodle. If you have a medium or standard Labradoodle, you will need to purchase the larger sized toys available, while a miniature Labradoodle will require smaller, lighter weight toys. Not only will this interactive toy keep your Labradoodle occupied; if they are going through a teething stage, it will relieve any teething troubles they are feeling. The objective of this toy is for the Labradoodle to attempt to eat the treats that the owner hides inside. The bottom of the Kong twists off where the owner can stash the dogs favorite treats, or just some dog biscuits. While the Kong is primarily a puzzle treat toy, it can also be thrown in hopes to be retrieved by your Labradoodle. The shape of the Kong means that it will bounce and turn making your Labradoodle need to think to catch it successfully in their mouth. This proudly American made dog toy, is bound to keep your Labradoodle occupied and out of mischief for quite some time. The Kong is made entirely from rubber meaning that it can be hand washed after use. View current price of Kong Toy here. Made from non-toxic plastic, this dog toy is durable, safe and can be easily cleaned. While your dog is being both physically and mentally active playing with the IQ Treat Ball, their teeth are being well looked after. Using an IQ treat toy will ensure your dog is only rewarded if they have been active. This type of toy is great because it can be retrieved, chewed and is a puzzle with treats as a reward. Toys like this can easily become a Labradoodles favorite. This type of interactive dog toy is less likely to be thrown aside like their stuffed toy might have been previously. View current price of the IQ Treat Toy here. This toy will ensure that the Labradoodle is mentally solving the puzzle to receive the prize which can be any kind of dog treat. These type of puzzle treat toys will strengthen your Labradoodles cognitive ability and keep them from mischief making. The Interactive Seek a Treat Toy can be used by a number of puppies at once or alternatively a two pack can be purchased together. The sliding disks can be moved back and forth to reveal treats hidden by the owner. The sturdy wood material used to create the Interactive Seek a Treat Toy is hard for a Labradoodle to destroy, and in the circumstance they do, each of these toys comes with an 18 month money back guarantee. These type of toys can even be used to feed the dog from if they have a tenancy to rush their meals. The slow feeder treat toys will control how quickly the Labradoodle can eat their meals. If you find that your Labradoodle becomes easily bored or rushes their meals, the slow feeder treat toy might be perfect for them. Find out more about the Slow Feeder Treat Toy here. This ensures they will need to use their tongue and mouth to maneuver the biscuits to a place in which they can consume them. This dog bowl is recommend by veterinarians across the globe as it reduces dogs suffering bloating and ingestion. The plastic used to create this toy is chemical free and extremely durable even for the roughest of Labradoodles. While many owners choose to put biscuits in the fun feeder, small bite sized treats can also be used in this bowl. The Labradoodle Fun Feeder comes in a number of colors and designs as well as sizes. When selecting a sized feeder bowl for your doodle, consider how many cups of biscuits you give them daily and then purchase the correct size accordingly. Buy your very own fun feeder bowl for your furry friend here. Providing your puppy with a number of toys that they can retrieve, chew, tug and solve will ensure they stay far away from any mischief that can be caused. No related posts. 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. They are soft and fluffy, and everyone wants to hold them and play with them. During our Open House we answer many questions that our families have. We discuss potential issues that they may encounter once they bring their puppy home. To ensure a great puppy start, we give our families tips on puppy training and how to intervene and redirect when their puppy starts to chew inappropriate objects, whether it is your finger or your remote control. We use substitution, a simple behavior modification technique to teach the puppy to chew on an appropriate object instead of inappropriate object. To do this, we share with our families some of our favorite healthy and appropriate chew toys for teething puppies. It is high in Collagen, Glucosamine and Chondroitin that support healthy joints with a unique aroma and taste that is very desirable by puppies and grown dogs. These easy to digest but are safer than rawhide and will not cause digestive distress that rawhides can cause. Lamb Tripe Sticks Organic lamb tripe are a great source of probiotics, Omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals and support digestive, dental, immune, and musculoskeletal systems. These treats are from grass fed lamb, free of antibiotics or hormones and are perfect for sensitive stomachs that aid digestion and relieve constipation. Untouched, untreated, unbleached tripe with no preservatives, hormones, or artificial ingredients will keep your puppy busy for hours at a time. These sticks are highly nutritious and are excellent alternative to rawhide and other chew treats like antlers that may be hard on the GI tract or the teeth. Larger treats are sufficient to keep your puppy busy for hours enjoying the treat. Sweet Potato Dog Treats- Dehydrated All-natural sweet potato skins are gluten and grain free and are loaded with fiber, antioxidants and natural vitamins and minerals. These healthy treats help complete your puppy meet their nutritional needs without supplements without fat or added sugar. Natural Bully Sticks All-natural beef bully sticks are made from high-quality, free-range, grass-fed beef that are high in protein and other essential vitamins to support a healthy diet. They promote dental health through scraping away tartar and plaque through you Australian Labradoodle puppy chewing action. Free of any additives, hormones or unhealthy chemicals. Bully sticks are fully digestible and an excellent alternative to rawhide and will not splinter. Goughnuts Although this is not an organic product, we have found it helpful as it is virtually indestructible chew toy designed by mechanical and polymer engineers. In addition, this chew toy floats and is perfect an excellent fetching toy. GoughNuts are safe for your Australian Labradoodle and even if your teething puppy chews through the outside layer to expose the red layer puppy should not chew on the red , the manufacturer will replace it. Ensure that it is soft enough to provide relief from sore gums, yet tough enough to last. Different Types of Toys Available There are millions of dog toys on the market these days, but not all dog toys are right for every dog. Some toys are specifically made for smaller breeds while others are made for more aggressive chewers. Others are made with organic materials while others are designed from plastic and include dyes. Most quality dog toys will display the type of dog they are targeting on their packaging. Make sure you heed these instructions, as getting a toy that is not designed for your Labradoodle in his particular life stage could be dangerous. Labradoodles are large dogs that need durable toys. Both parent breeds have a history as retrieving dogs, so may enjoy a toy that you can throw for them. But, you know your Labradoodle best. Ultimately, you are best placed to decide which toys they will enjoy the most. These toys are tough, durable teething toys with nubs and edges designed for those sharp little puppy teeth. They can even aid in overall dental health. This adds a bit more comforting relief when your puppy chews. These toys are softer and made for younger puppies, so they are not ideal for young adult or grown Labradoodle dogs. They come in two different, interesting shapes that will be easy for your Labradoodle to hold whilst they chew. The two toys have different textures, one with ridges, and the other more smooth. So, your puppy has a bit of choice. Chews like this are great for teething puppies to relieve a little of their discomfort, and to save your own skin from painful bites! Nina Ottosson Puzzle Toy Puzzle toys can help with chewing, because a lot of chewing behavior is triggered by boredom. Every Labradoodle has their quiet moments. This is a toy designed to be used with treats and encourages your dog to think, in order to get to the tasty treasures. As Labradoodles get older, they become increasingly more intelligent and are more prone to experiencing boredom and anxiety. You can help alleviate this by investing in the best Labradoodle toys you can find. This puzzle toy is made of plastic, so is washable with soap and warm water. But, be aware that this is not a toy to leave with your dog to play with alone. These dog toys include a variety of toys like interactive balls, squeaky toys, treat balls, and puzzles to keep your clever Labradoodle engaged with or without you at his side. The Medium-Large size pack is best for adult Labradoodles, who are large breed dogs when fully grown. These balls are each slightly different from one another, with different textures, shapes, and sizes. So, your Labradoodle has a lot of choice when playing. The Kong is a brilliant invention and comes in a range of different strengths and sizes. The large red variety is perfect for most adult labradoodles to chew on. There is an even tougher black version if you Labradoodle is a power chewer! You can also freeze these toys with food inside, making it a little harder for your dog to get the food out, and encouraging some relaxed playtime. This KONG toy is designed to bounce in unpredictable directions when thrown. Your Labradoodle will love to chase it as it bounces around your house or yard! This toy is specifically designed for large dog breeds. Some Labradoodles are more aggressive chewers than others. If your Labradoodle is part shark, a rope toy like this is a great durable choice. It is knotted with frayed ends, so your dog will love gnawing on the different bumps and textures. On top of this, chewing on rope toys can be a great way for your Labradoodle to clean their teeth. And, it is machine washable, so you can keep your dog healthy and your house smelling fresh. BarkBox Plush Squeak Toy Labradoodle puppies may well enjoy cuddling up with a few soft toys in the first few weeks. Remember, these toys are not suitable for heavy or destructive chewers. But are better suited to very young puppies. You may need to remove them once your puppy reaches three to four months of age This one is a large, plush toy in the shape of a sloth! This toy option has a number of different fabrics that your dog will love the feel of. Plus, inside is a wonderful squeaker, that will make chewing fun and rewarding. Whether your Labradoodle loves cuddling up with their toys or just making as much noise as possible, this is a great option. But, remember to remove any pieces that your dog does chew off. Even fabric can be problematic if swallowed. This is an extremely good toy for puppies as it has a soft surface but the puppy can bite down on the tough knotted rope inside. It has realistic flexibility in its sides, and contains a squeaker. Your Labradoodle will find chewing on this raccoon toy very rewarding. Even if your Labradoodle does manage to completely destroy the outer layer, they can just continue playing with the rope toy hidden inside! Just be sure to discard any loose pieces. This chew toy is covered with interesting textures. You can also hide treats inside to encourage your Labradoodle. Like any other toy, make sure to remove any pieces that get chewed off — although it will be a challenge for your dog with this option! A Classic Tennis Ball! But, in reality, any tennis ball will be great too! And, you can find them in pretty much any pet store. Choose standard sized tennis balls rather than small versions so your Labradoodle cannot swallow or choke on them. Both parents of the Labradoodle the Labrador and the Poodle love to retrieve. So, your Labradoodle is bound to love chasing one of these tennis balls across a field and bringing it back to you. Just remember to remove tennis balls that break open so your doodle dog cannot swallow any pieces. Labradoodles are mixed breeds, meaning they are the offspring of the purebred Poodle and purebred Labrador Retriever. Both of these dog breeds are bred working dogs with lots of energy to burn. Dogs with lots of intelligence and energy to burn can be wonderful companies to the right family. But they can also be more prone to problematic and destructive behaviors if their exercise and mental stimulation needs are not met. These toys can also help soothe anxiety, reduce destructive behaviors, and even keep your Labradoodle entertained and happy while you are away. Is your Labradoodle a chewer? Or does he prefer learning new tricks and exploring? Does your Labradoodle like to cuddle with toys. Or does he enjoy playing tug of war or more destructive games with his plushies? Knowing your Labradoodle will help you be able to better pick out the best Labradoodle toy for him. Puppies, for example, will do well with teething toys and smaller, softer KONGS to help keep them occupied and happy. Adult Labradoodles will likely appreciate toys that help aid in exercise like balls, interactive and puzzle toys. They also love strong chews they can distract themselves with when you are busy or away. If you are choosing toys for your puppy before they arrive, you might want to get a selection — perhaps one toy from each category that we looked at right at the start of this guide. This way, you can see which type your Labradoodle responds best to before investing lots of money into more toys. Other Ways to Entertain Your Labradoodle with Toys Along with investing in the best Labradoodle toys for your Labradoodle, you might also consider a storage container to keep these toys in. Because Labradoodles are so intelligent, only give your Labradoodle a few toys at a time. Then you can switch them out with new ones now and again to keep things interesting. You can also help encourage your Labradoodle to build healthy, independent habits using toys. Keeping your Labradoodle on a schedule and allowing him to have time to himself with a favorite toy can help reduce anxiety and stress, and help your Labradoodle see that being on his own from time to time is actually a good thing. These will last many months, even years. All young dogs like to chew on softer toys too, and the Kong Knots range is perfect for this purpose. Soft toys can work for very small puppies but tend to have a short life. You may also find that puzzle toys and training games, help reduce any destructive behavior around your home. We hope this article has been a helpful guide on the best Labradoodle toys for your playful pup. Now we want to hear from you. What do you think is the best Labradoodle toy on our list? Have you tried any out on your pup? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below! However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. References and Resources Paterson, S. Tug of war games can last longer with this durable toy that is nearly indestructible. And if your pup does manage to destroy it? The company will give you a replacement or a refund. The material can hold up against active chewers. This rope can be used by multiple dogs at once for pulling, playing, and chasing. Check the price now! Since these dogs are not couch potatoes, they need ways to burn off their energy and stay mentally and physically stimulated. Labradoodles need enrichment every day or they can turn to undesirable behaviors. They are slow to mature and usually only calm down a bit at around 3 years of age. The Importance of Toys Labradoodles like to chew, chase, run, swim, and play. To avoid these unwanted behaviors, make sure that your dog has plenty of walks, chances to run, and toys to play with. When their chewing instinct kicks in, having their own things to chew on will save your household items. What Are the Best Toys for Labradoodles? Chew Toys Labradoodles are strong chewers and need toys that can satisfy their chewing instincts. Chew toys should be durable enough to last and not break apart instantly. If your Labradoodle is a heavy chewer, always supervise them when they are playing with toys. Chewing apart small pieces of toys and ingesting them put your dog at risk for choking and intestinal blockages. Always make sure the toy your dog is chewing is one that is suitable for them Puzzle Toys Labradoodles are intelligent and enjoy toys that keep them mentally engaged. Puzzle toys can keep dogs from getting bored. They also offer rewards for correctly solving the puzzle, further motivating your dog to work for them. Fetch Toys Labradoodles love having plenty of toys around to play fetch with because they are highly active dogs. Throwing a ball or plush toy will give them a way to get the exercise they need and have fun doing it. You may even notice your Labradoodle bringing you toys to throw for them. The more toys they have to chase, the more you can be sure your dog is getting the activity that they need. Tug Toys Tug toys allow Labradoodles to get exercise, safely release some pent-up energy, and bond with their owners. After all, the tug toy needs to be used with another person in order to work properly. Since these toys require interaction, playtime can also be socialization time. They will need you, another person, or another dog in order to play. They can provide a feeling of comfort to anxious dogs and have a calming effect on puppies. They are fun to snuggle with and can be used as pillows. Some dogs use plush toys like children use security blankets. Rubber, nylon, canvas, and latex are good choices. Plush toys with reinforced seams are ideal. If the toys are going to be used outdoors, notice how they can get cleaned. Some toys can be hand washed or put in the washing machine. Design Not every Labradoodle will like every toy. Some dogs love puzzle toys while others lose interest in them quickly. It can take some trial and error to find toys that your individual dog will enjoy. If your dog loves noisy toys, be sure to offer them when playtime is allowed without restriction. Choosing a toy for your Labradoodle can be tricky because not all dogs like the same things. Some dogs are also more destructive than others. Toys are important for Labradoodles because they provide mental and physical stimulation, decrease boredom, and help your pup have fun. This only happens if the toys are right for your specific dog. Always supervise your dog when they are playing with toys that they can easily destroy to avoid accidental injury from swallowed pieces and parts. She has lived with dogs for over 30 years and spends her days writing, caring for various animals, and enjoying her backyard that has become an oasis for wild creatures. Her passion for animals began at a young age when she would bring home the lost dog or cat. As she got older, she went on to bring home an injured bird or raccoon. This love and desire to help all creatures led to her work as an adult with various animal rescues, where she saved the lives of many domestic and wild animals while learning the necessary skills to care for them. Owning and operating a professional pet care service in Chicago for the past twelve years, Jessica cares for dogs in her home while writing full-time. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day. Without something to occupy them, your Dood is likely to quickly get bored. These toys present your pal with a task to carry out in order to receive a reward — this can either be access to a fun toy or tasty treat. Some toys, such as puzzle balls, also work well for rationing kibble with scoffers. Rope Toys Another popular and inexpensive option is the rope toy. Long, colorful fibers are woven together and knotted to create the perfect toy for chewing, tug-of-war games, and fetch. A word of caution, poorly made rope toys can do your pet more harm than good — especially if they are exceptionally energetic chewers. Loose strands can also get tangled around the base of the tongue, which can cause a strangulation-type injury to the tongue itself. Fetch toys Most dogs love playing games with their owner. For the bouncy, boisterous Labradoodle fetch toys such as balls and frisbees are a great way of killing two birds with one stone. Not only do they get to spend quality time with the person they love best in the world, but they also get plenty of much-needed exercise. A further benefit of these excellent toys is the more you can tire your pup out through long walks and energetic games, the easier they will be to handle through the day and into the evening. Burning down their energy this way also helps keep dogs calm during bathing and grooming sessions and trips to the vet. Plush toys Great for anxious dogs and keeping young puppies calm, plush toys make excellent snuggle pals for your four-legged friend. Generally, these are better for light to non-chewers as fabric is more easily ripped and shredded by determined teeth and claws. Always opt for a non-toxic product with reinforced seams, though, just in case. They could cause them health problems if your pup decides to swallow any materials, small parts, or stuffing. In particular, pay attention to: Design While many dog toys have relatively straightforward designs — especially fetch and tug toys, you need to ask yourself whether it will actually appeal to your dog. After all, if your dog loses interest within a couple of minutes, all you have left is a pointless, potential trip hazard. Opt for easy-grip toys with entertaining features if you are looking for something that will keep your pup entertained during solo play. These may include squeakers, added flavors, or a place where you can stash a treat for them to find. Construction This is probably the most crucial aspect of any toy. After all, how many times have you bought what you thought was an excellent toy for your dog, only for them to rip it to shreds in literal seconds? Novice pet parents, be warned! Choose quality toys that are not going to instantly be destroyed the minute you remove the tag. Natural rubber, latex, and nylon are all good robust materials. Kong Classic Dog Toy.