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Read on for detailed tips on when you should expect your Labradoodle to be trained and milestone ages. Did you know that back in , Labradoodles were bred by an Australian breeder Wally Conron for a blind woman whose husband had a dog allergy? Since then, Labradoodles have only grown in popularity. The average lifespan of a Labradoodle is around 10 to 14 years , and they come in three different sizes — miniature or toy, medium, and standard. Their sizes can also affect how they behave. Your Labradoodle will undergo various changes through every stage in their lives. Their five different life stages include: Puppyhood — 1 to 5 months Adolescence — 6 to 18 months Adulthood — until three years of age Middle Age — until seven years of age Old Age — the last stage; until 12 to 14 years of age. At every stage, your Labradoodle will depict different behaviors, and you will have to modify how you train them accordingly. Can Labradoodles smile? The correct training approach is to start coaching your Labradoodles from the first day when you bring them home. Compared to adult dogs, puppies are easier to train. You will have a much easier and fun time training them when and where to pee, how to socialize, how not to put everything in their mouth, how to stay away from chewing the new sofa set, etc. First 30 Days with a Labradoodle The first 30 days are an exciting time with new Labradoodles. With a crossbreed, you often have no idea what surprises are about to unfold. Your furry friend will obviously go on to explore every nook and cranny of your house. While you might feel like spending every second cuddling and playing around with them, this is the time when you should start training your dog. The sooner you begin, the more adaptable the routine becomes to the dog. When they are young, it is recommended that you initiate the process of Early Scent Introduction to amplify their senses. This will allow them to quickly identify and react to particular smells. A helpful activity is putting a leash on your Labradoodle while it walks around the house and sniffs different household objects. You can also include a few more games and habits into their routine to make them put their senses to good use. You will often find them jumping around the house and licking everyone. All their sensory organs will be heightened, so behaviors like wagging their tails and play-biting people will be common. If their erratic behavior changes are not kept in check, you might even find them baring teeth at anyone who attempts to touch their belongings or fiddle with the safe environment they are used to. Potty Training This is the age to establish a potty schedule for your puppy. Include multiple potty breaks throughout the day so that the dog knows where to go to release themselves. Train them to hold their pee in until they reach their designated point. Every time they successfully pee outside , make sure to reward them with a treat. Leash Training Leashes are going to be a life-long friend of your dogs. Make sure you introduce them to the concept of a leash right from the very beginning. It will help your Labradoodle get accustomed to the feeling of having a leash around them every time they are taken for a walk. When at home, put the leash on the dog, and let them walk around freely without pulling on it. Two Labradoodles sniff eachother out at a dog park. The puppyhood phase is about to end, and the new adulthood chapter is about to commence. By this time, they should have mastered most of the training commands and techniques so you can move on to teaching them more advanced training options. Loose leash training, clicker, and positive reinforcement training all become possible now. We must keep a strict eye on reinforcing positive behavior and obedience and redirect unwanted behavior with just as much consistency as when they were a young puppy. By this time, your dog should also be vaccinated, so they can go to a nearby park and play with other dogs. Command Training This is the stage when you start teaching your Labradoodle some basic commands. The best way to introduce it is during their mealtime. You can hold the food in your hands and use it to lure them. Identify a definite marker that you can use to communicate to your Labradoodle if they perform a particular command correctly or incorrectly. Sit with your Labradoodle on the floor and play around to try to communicate with them. Make them comfortable with your touch and sound. Find other puppies that your Labradoodle can spend time with. It is a good idea to begin socializing your puppy to help them become more comfortable with humans as well as other dogs. This will also reduce the risk of anxiety and fear, help them listen to others better, and ensure that they live a fulfilling and happy life. Regardless of what training routine you establish for your dog, make sure you only do it through positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is a reward-based training option. So, if your dog successfully performs a task or follows a command, you praise them or reward them with treats. You can use a favorite treat or a toy to encourage them to follow the command again. Avoid punishing your dog at all costs as it would instill life-long fear in them. Use puzzle toys and different mentally stimulating exercises to improve their physical and mental capabilities even simple food toys like frozen Kongs or slow feeder bowls do the trick. Our best Labradoodle name ideas. I am sure you have been planning the arrival of your Labradoodle and are excited for all the joy and happiness they are about to bring into your life. I got a puppy a few months back too, and there are a few tips I wish someone had told me about before: Have two separate bowls ready for your Labradoodle — one for food and one for water. Feed them with food specific to their breed, and make sure to replace their bowl with fresh water every day. Proper nutrition and a balanced diet are part and parcel of a good puppy training routine. You can also treat them with a toy every time they follow the commands you teach them. Invest in a comfortable dog bed. Although bedding can be expensive, your Labradoodle needs a decent place to relax. Make sure the size of the bed is appropriate, neither too big nor too small. Puppy-proof your house before the new member settles in. Keeping the electrical cords out of reach, properly latching the doors and windows to avoid risking your puppy wandering off, and designating a specific bathroom area for the puppy are some of the vital precautions you must take. It not only keeps them clean and smelling fresh but also eliminates the risk of illnesses and diseases in your dog. But they still need to be regularly groomed to avoid matting. To do this, however, you need to train your Labradoodles to be comfortable with the different grooming tools and sit still for some time. Here are a few tips on how you can do that successfully: Sensitize your Labradoodle to the sounds of different grooming equipment like nail trimmers, scissors, combs, brushes, etc. Play with their paws and make them feel comfortable. You should massage their feet and touch their nails to make them feel at ease with your touch. The more you delay grooming your dog regularly, the more complex and painful the procedure will get. Brushing becomes easy, pain-free, and you will be surprised to see your Labradoodle eventually starting to look forward to it. While doing facial trims, your dog needs to remain calm and still. To do a facial trim, gently hold their head in one hand and rest their chin on another. There are high chances your dog will be placed in a crate when attending grooming sessions at a salon. So make them accustomed to being placed inside a crate at home. You can keep their favorite toys and treats inside to make them feel more comfortable. Most of the advanced Labradoodle training options and methods are built on basic training methods. If your Labradoodle has successfully mastered basic training skills, the advanced training period will be relatively easy. If you want your dog to behave even better and learn new tricks, or get them registered as a service dog or a guide dog, or make them participate in an upcoming dog event, you can consider enrolling them in professional advanced training courses. Labradoodles, as the name suggests, are a cross between Poodles and Labradors, combining the best characteristics of both breeds. Labradoodles are bred to be friendly and loving and they are very easy to train. In terms of background, if the breeder or adoption service you got your pup from did not start any training, then you will have to start slow and be patient. A Labradoodle that has been trained and brought up well can serve as the perfect service dog, guide dog, or therapy dog. Are Labradoodles Easy To Train? Labradoodles are great companions that can fit in as easily in a large family as they can in a small one. They are easy to train, friendly, social, and intelligent. If they are trained consistently, they develop a friendly temperament and bond well with their owners. Do Labradoodles Bark Excessively? As with any other breed of dog, Labradoodles are at high risk of barking excessively if they are not adequately trained or if their day-to-day requirements are not met. A Labradoodle has a lot of energy. If the energy is not channeled in the right place through coaching, exercising, and proper stimulation, they might get stressed and anxious and bark unreasonably. A Red Miniature Labradoodle looks happy in the studio. Final Words The happiness that comes with having a Labradoodle as your companion and raising them is unmatched. However, as with any other dog, training them involves hard work and discipline. I hope this guide makes Labradoodle training easy for you. The biggest hurdle you may face when training your dog is a lack of motivation and consistency. Luckily, Labradoodles are inclined to learn from their owners quicker than other breeds. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. But in the early days, we recommend keeping them close to you at night. It will help them feel safe and cared for — leaving their litter is quite a big step, after all. Your puppy may be unsettled and will most likely need at least one toilet break through the night. It will all be okay in a few weeks time, though. The crate should be a cosy warm den for your puppy. Soft blankets and a cuddly toy should do the trick to help them settle. It is also a good idea to cover over the sides but keep the front uncovered so your pup can still see out. Just before bed, take your pup out for one last toilet stop. With that beautiful voice of yours, gently reassure them and rest your hand in the crate so they know you are there. When your puppy wakes up in the night they definitely will at some point , listen to see if they are settling back down. Expect to be out at or am to take them straight to the loo. They will be bursting! That just about covers the first steps of Labradoodle sleep training. Very tired. But early mornings, late nights and disturbed sleep are all part of owning a puppy. As they mature emotionally and settle into their new home they will be happy in other parts of the house, and even outside of their crate. Having them in your room does not cause separation anxiety later on. Stick to a routine! Consistency is everything. It will backfire on you. Check out our guide on how to get a puppy to sleep through the night for more tips. Alone Training Labradoodles are very sociable. That can mean two things — they will always be happy to see you and that being alone can be challenging for them. This will help them feel at ease without you and also help them love their crate a little bit more too. While they are eating, go and do something close by. No need to go completely out of sight, but try not to focus on your puppy either. Labradoodles love to eat, so use this time wisely to distract them away from you. Just a few seconds is good enough in the early stages. Repeat: Practice makes perfect! Do this exercise at least once a day to build up alone time, and check out our guide to puppy separation anxiety. We expand on our little secret in our puppy toilet training article. Every 30 minutes, after eating, sleeping or playing. Socialization Exercises to do This Week Early socialisation is important for all puppies. It gives them confidence and teaches them to view the world in an optimistic way. Here are some puppy socialisation exercises to do with your Labradoodle. Let your Labradoodle Puppy Explore the Garden The garden is a great way to introduce your puppy to the great outdoors. They will also get used to walking on different types of surfaces such as your tiled, wet lawn or open flower beds. To get them there, here is a quick exercise you can run through: Exploring different surfaces exercise Have plenty of treats ready. Only use safe surfaces, nothing too slippery. Gather surfaces such as: A piece of carpet A large tray with a thin layer of water A large piece of tin foil or cardboard, something that makes a noise. Put the surfaces out on the floor and let your puppy investigate. Let them take their time and go at their own pace. In our experience Labradoodles are quite food motivated, and you can probably use a low or medium value treat for this. You can even try to use their kibble as many will be delighted to work for their food. For more info on what rewards to use check out our article on rewards and treats. Teach your puppy their name One of the first things your puppy will learn from you is their name. Fortunately, teaching a Labradoodle puppy their name is rather simple. Pretty easy, right? Practice this a few times everyday until they start flipping their head at you every time you call their name. Make sure everyone in the family uses the same name too! Teach your puppy to sit Labradoodle training is often started by teaching them how to sit. We call this a marker word. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow with a tasty treat. Bits of smelly sausage or cheese will definitely do the trick. If this happens, try to keep it simple at first and just use their own kibble if they are motivated to work for it. Save the big guns in treat terms for when you really need it! How to do it Always begin training at home. The outside world is far too exciting at the moment, and your puppy will probably not focus on you. Stand in front of your pup with a treat in your hand and place the treat on their nose, then bring it up to your waist. Recall — How to teach your Labradoodle puppy to come back when called Your puppy should have a good grasp of their name by now, which should make recall training pretty straightforward. Pun intended. How to do it You will need plenty of those high value treats and your best cheery voice. Call your puppy only once! This is super important as you want them to learn that their name only has to be called once for them to react to it. How to do it Get your puppy excited by showing them their favourite toy and making it come to life by waving it around. Once they are interested in the toy, throw it a short distance away from you. With that lovely singing voice of yours, encourage them to bring it back to you. When they do, swap the toy in their mouth for another identical toy. Repeat about 5 times and practice everyday. Get your puppy excited by showing them their favourite toy and making it come to life by waving it around. Prevention of Resource Guarding This part of Labradoodle training is important — it will prevent resource guarding by teaching your puppy how to give up items willingly. Resource guarding is this thing that happens when dogs are unwilling to give up items back, or when they get protective over something from humans or other dogs. From the training tips above, preventing resource guarding always comes down to a good swapping. Resource guarding starts when we force our dogs as puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. To avoid that, resist your temptation to reach deep inside their mouths to get whatever it is they have. Ultimately, we want our puppies to be willing to give things up when we need them to. What we really mean is care, handling, health and grooming. Start by just showing them the brush and running it over them with the flat side so they get used to the sensation minus the bristles. Hand Touch and Handling If you handle your puppy too roughly or grab at them, not only are they going to have a bit of a fright, but it could make them feel scared about being touched in the future. Use plenty of treats, and remember to stop if they walk away. Touch should be a pleasant thing not forced. Week 2 — Training your Labradoodle puppy Week 2 already! Socialisation exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Fireworks — Watch the world go by outside your house — Play dress up. Challenge Their Mind Labradoodles are highly intelligent dogs, so prevent boredom. Most dog owners know that a new puppy requires proper nutrition and daily exercise, but they often forget to challenge them mentally. This is a problem that can lead to a lot of behavior issues, from aggression and, biting to full-on destructive behavior. But perfect and precise practice is by far the best road to success. If you have to choose between making a specific exercise easier or lowering your expectations of the final result, always go for the first option. Always start at the point where your Labradoodle is able to do the exercise correctly, and then move ahead from there. Reactions towards humans, cars, other animals, and so on, aggressive behavior, growling being overly excited. The solution to all these problems starts with the ability to do nothing. Labradoodles, like humans, need to focus and use their attention to be able to learn new things. Small problems might seem just like that, small, but they have a tendency to grow larger over time. Most of the problems you might encounter during to daily walk or someplace else should be solved even before leaving your home. Perhaps your dog will eventually become tired and end up walking more slowly and what seems to be more well-mannered than you, but having a tired Labradoodle is not the same as a well-behaving Labradoodle. Have a Point of Restoration Labradoodles connect certain emotions with very specific areas. So if you are having problems with a specific behavior, and your dog ends up stressed or losing interest, try moving to a different area and training something that you know your dog is good at. This will give the Labradoodle a sense of accomplishment. Try finding a lower table or some other platform to exercise with instead. When your dog manages that, then you can return to the table that was too difficult, to begin with. It is then highly like that your dog will be able to jump onto the table, without even having to think much about it. You might have a dog that jumps onto visitors, or perhaps on your furniture. Now when opening the door, this will prevent your dog from jumping onto the visitor. Usually, it will quickly stop attempting to jump up, and then you tell it to sit down. Have your guest pet it for a short amount of time, and only as long as the dog keeps sitting. You can then start over and try this exercise several times. Labradoodles who jump on the furniture when told not to. Grab a hold on the end of the leash, and pull the dog down from the furniture. Again, start over and try multiple times until the message is clear to the dog. Put your dog on a long training leash and make sure that you have a firm grip on the other end before calling for your dog to return. When the dog returns, give it a treat or its favorite toy. Repeat this until you get a satisfactory outcome. This is also where most people start making mistakes with Labradoodle training. They are very enthusiastic about training and buying all the best products, but after the first week, they lose interest and end up letting the dog do pretty much what it wants. And if it takes you a month to get to the point where the dog returns to you even without you pulling on the leash, keep the leash on for the same amount of time before removing it, just to be sure. Make sure that you get the result you want every single time until it is certain your Labradoodle is done taking chances. Sometimes we end up training our Labradoodles for so long that they will eventually lose their motivation. And now your dog is tired and really in need of a good rest. Stop the exercise as soon as you know your dog understands the concept of what you are doing. In the Case of a Stressed Dog Go back to the point where your dog the last time felt perfectly comfortable. When a dog is stressed it will usually go back to instinctive and unwanted behavior, so it is not a good idea to only train your dog in surroundings where it is totally calm. You have to work with situations where your dog usually has a strong reaction. And then you have to work through those situations. The only way to train your Labradoodle to overcome these situations is by getting them to a point where they master it. Try doing that in a controlled environment, after you have thought your dog the most basic training. If you are hesitant at putting your dog in these situations because you fear what reaction it might show, work with it in less stressful surroundings before moving forward. Taking One Step Backwards To be able to take two steps forward. Try looking back at rule number 6. The rule applies to every single time you and your dog find yourself in a new situation. This is especially important when training your dog in that phase where it has learned something, but now it needs to be able to do it every single time without any hassle. So put the leash on until you are certain that your Labradoodle also has this new situation under control, before continuing with your exercises. As mentioned earlier your is most likely a gambler or at the very least an opportunist. Putting your dog on a leash makes it easier for you to follow through on your command, and think very carefully before commanding your Labradoodle to do anything. Never Test Your Dog Tests and exams are fine with kids going to school. But instead, be sure that you are there to lead and guide your dog as much as necessary. This is extremely important to remember. And that makes all the difference in the world to a Labradoodle just trying to find its place in this human world. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. It takes traits from both breeds, and new puppy owners will quickly see this combination was chosen intentionally. The Labrador retriever is an intelligent, loyal breed with an excellent temperament for nearly any family or living situation. Unfortunately, these dogs also shed a lot, which can be a hassle. It also makes a Labrador a poor choice for public social situations, such as outdoor dining at dog-friendly patios. Instead, the coat traps dirt, allergens, loose hair and other debris inside it. This means less shedding but also means daily brushing is required. The poodle is also an intelligent breed that makes a perfect addition to most homes since it was bred to be a companion animal. Any puppy is a lifelong commitment. Understanding what to expect at every life stage will help you prepare to give your cute little puppy a long, prosperous, happy life. A normal-sized labradoodle will live an average of 12 to 14 years. Smaller labradoodles resulting from a miniature or toy poodle crossbreed will generally live a little longer. However, you must remember that this lifespan is only an average. There are plenty of labradoodles who live into their late teens. A healthy diet, regular exercise and periodic vet visits are crucial to your labradoodle puppy living a long, healthy life. These main life stages include puppyhood, adolescence, adulthood, middle-aged and senior. Each life stage is discussed in more detail below. Puppyhood If you adopt a labradoodle puppy, this will be the first stage you get to witness. A labradoodle puppy will remain in this life stage from birth until five or six months. Birth to 7 Weeks From birth until about seven weeks of age, labradoodle puppies stay close to their mother. They spend all their time eating, sleeping, growing and cuddling with their littermates. As they get closer to seven weeks of age, they may begin exploring their world a little. Around seven weeks of age, a labradoodle puppy will start becoming more interested in people. This is also when it begins forming bonds with you and other humans in the home or family. These adorable puppies will become more playful and curious at about eight weeks old. Instead, you want to create only positive experiences during this time to ensure it grows into a secure young adult dog. This is the perfect time to start positive training techniques. Teaching your labradoodle puppy about action and reward now will benefit its lifelong training. During this stage of puppy development, socialization is crucial. Now is the perfect time to take it to new places, introduce it to new people and provide it with new experiences. The most important part of this stage of puppy development is that your pup becomes a free and independent thinker. With its curiosity at an all-time high, this is the perfect time to bring your new companion everywhere. Socialization and bonding are other vital aspects of this stage of puppy development. Pet owners will find their puppy wants to be with them all the time and may become mildly anxious when separated from them. Most of its time will be spent eating, sleeping or getting into trouble. Your growing canine should have lost its baby teeth, have all its adult teeth and be out of the biting stage it may have had during puppyhood. Thanks to the Labrador genes, your labradoodle will always love to chew. You can stop destructive chewing behaviors by providing a chew toy or two or 20 to keep it occupied. It may become territorial, but regular socialization can help ease these issues. Your labradoodle will also begin showing quite a bit of strength, so continuing its training during this time is crucial. Acting out, wandering and even behaving aggressively are all normal during this time. Adulthood For a labradoodle, adulthood starts somewhere between two or three years of age and lasts until around its seventh birthday. During adulthood, labradoodles are at their prime. Their adult coat will grow in, which may be thicker or denser than their puppy coat. This breed is very intelligent and easy to train, so if you want to keep teaching it new tricks, you can. Weight Management Your labradoodle will reach its adult size between two and three years old. They can tell you if your dog is a normal size or needs diet and exercise. Middle-Aged Your doodle puppy will turn middle-aged around seven years old. This life stage is relatively brief and only lasts until the dog turns nine or .During middle age, most dogs are still active and overall healthy. It may exercise less and sleep a little more as it transitions between adulthood and its golden years. A middle-aged dog may begin to develop some health problems, especially as it gets closer to its senior years. The primary issues of concern are obesity, joints and teeth. The teeth and joints will become especially vulnerable during this stage, so you must take your dog for regular teeth cleaning and wellness visits. In addition, your vet may recommend supplements to protect the joints. Extra weight will also place unnecessary additional stress on the joints and heart of your dog. Senior Your dog will officially be considered a senior from around nine to 10 years of age until the end of its life. During their golden years, your labradoodle will require extra care and attention. Health problems are most likely to occur during these years, and your vet may suggest two annual well visits instead of only one. After 10 years of age, your dog will likely encounter issues staying warm. You might consider a heating blanket in their bed, keeping the house slightly warmer during winter or providing extra blankets to snuggle under. Your dog may also have problems with its eyesight. The most common issue for senior labradoodles is their joints, which tend to ache as they get older. In addition, they may have mobility problems caused by sore and stiff joints. For example, consider a ramp to help it get into the car or up your porch steps. Developing one or more health problems could mean a shorter lifespan for your labradoodle. A few of the most common health problems affecting labradoodle puppies or adults include: Allergies usually to food Ear infections which can lead to hearing loss after repeat infections Epilepsy. The Labradoodle is a gorgeous cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, and the Goldendoodle is an adorable mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Characteristics and traits can vary significantly because these pups are a hybrid breed, but they are usually incredibly people-focused, laid back, and playful, making Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training an enjoyable moment. Doodles make awesome pets, especially if their owners fully comprehend the importance of training from a young age. The type of adult dog breed you end up with depends a little bit on their personality and a lot on how you take care of them. Before you begin Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training, it helps to decide exactly what kind of dog you want to have. Do Plenty of Research It is vital that you have an understanding of canine learning theory because dogs learn very differently from people. A puppy does whatever it can to get what it desires the most at that moment. There are plenty of online resources that can teach you about methods to get the best out of your training. It may be helpful to consult a puppy training professional or spend some time at doggy school to get a headstart and pick up tips from experts. Your pup is a blank slate — with your guidance, they can develop the traits and learn the behaviors that you value the most. Labradoodle and Goldendoodle puppies are curious and they love exploring their new home as they make it their own. Getting it right during the early stages sets a precedent for the rest of their life. Spending as much time as you can with them helps build the foundation for a happy, confident and well-behaved dog. Form a Bond and Gain Trust With Your Doodle Before you do anything, you will need to develop a strong bond with your new pal to make sure they trust you. Try to keep your own energy as calm as possible — they bounce off you. While it may be tempting to get excited by their cuteness and mirror their enthusiasm, this makes it more difficult for them to listen to you and regulate their own behavior. Teach your furry friend what to expect from the moment they get into the home to stop them from getting confused. Use Positive Reinforcement Intimidation or fear tactics are never the best way to build a loving and secure bond between you and your fur baby. To make the most of this method, reward your pooch for good behavior and ignore bad behavior. Treats, verbal praise, and clicker training reward them for a job well done. This also helps them to make positive associations with you and training time. Everyone has their own list of priorities and yours will depend on factors such as whether you have children or other pets. Potty training is a straightforward, formulaic process that your new puppy will adapt to. A consistent routine is the key to getting them toilet trained as efficiently and effectively as possible. Let them outside at the same time each day, and take them to the same spot. In the early days, it may be difficult for them to make it all the way through the night, so try to make provisions for this stage. Select a word for them to associate with potty training and repeat it over and over whenever you take them to the toilet. Every time they do their business outside, give them lots of cuddles and praise, treat them and play one of their favorite games. There will be setbacks — getting it right takes time! If they mess in the wrong place, take them outside to their toileting spot and give them the chance to relieve themselves. We cannot emphasize the importance of praising them when they get it right enough! Crate Training Not everyone opts to crate train their puppy, but it can be useful for the earliest stages of Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training. The crate gives them a safe place they can call their own. Be sure to make the time they spend in the crate a positive experience, and never leave them in there for more hours than their age in months plus one hour. For example, a three-month-old puppy can be kept in their crate for no more than four hours. Socialization Dogs are social animals, and Goldendoodles and Labradoodles, in particular, are happiest when they spend time pleasing people and playing. However, building confidence takes effort and guidance from their pet parent. If you want to ensure they grow up to have a balanced personality, you need to expose them to plenty of dogs, people and different situations. Take them out and about as much as possible to help them become accustomed to a range of noises, sights and sounds. Bring them to a local dog park to get them used to spending time around other dogs. Manners Your adorable little pup has the potential to develop a host of bad habits, but these behaviors can be nipped in the bud. Temperament and Dealing with Small Children There are several steps to take while getting your canine cutie used to being a member of a family with children. Both pup and child will need to have clear boundaries mapped out for them so they can build mutual trust and be kind to each other. Let the child practice with a toy before they pick up or cuddle the pup. Ensure the child sits down when they play with the dog; this helps to prevent the pup from getting overexcited. Teach the child to do small tasks to help care for the dog, such as filling the bowl or helping with grooming. Knowing what to expect according to the time of day helps them to settle and feel reassured. Always wake them up at the same time, feed and walk them around the same time and do training exercises at a set time. Patience Is Everything! The best piece of advice for Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training is to have patience. Spend lots of time bonding and playing with your pooch so you can make training something fun that you both enjoy. If you put in the effort early on, then you will be rewarded with a well-mannered dog who will be a joy to spend time with for years to come. Labradoodles are intelligent, friendly, and playful, but if you let your youngster do whatever he wants and allow him to think that he is the boss, then you may well end up with a naughty, attention-seeking adult. Lack of training usually plays a big part in why the dog develops some unwanted behavior traits. If you want a dog that you can take anywhere and who will be a perfect companion, rather than a pain in the neck, then spend time early on teaching him some manners and your ground rules. You may consider seeking the help of a professional trainer, but that option may not be practical or within the budget. This way, your puppy will get to learn and socialize with other dogs at the same time. You could also watch some Labradoodle training videos on YouTube, but it should not replace training with other dogs. If you decide to train your Doodle yourself, then remember the golden rule: training should always be based on rewards and not punishment. It should be a positive learning experience for both of you. Labradoodles can be sensitive little critters, and bawling at the top of your voice or smacking should not play any part in training. Are Labradoodles Easy to Train? Labradoodles are very intelligent and generally regarded as easy to train due to their easy-going temperaments and desire to connect with and please their humans. They have curious minds, and most will thrive on training if they get the chance to exercise their grey matter with some fun. Some Labradoodles are professionally trained to a very high standard to become guide or therapy dogs. Over the years, Labradoodles, especially Australian Labradoodles , have been bred with a specific easy-going temperament in mind. Early Labradoodles were often headstrong and hyper-active, but well-bred Aussie Doodles these days usually have great personalities and fit well into family life. Like most dogs, Labradoodles are pack animals and hierarchical. They respect the pecking order and are happy when they know and are comfortable with their place in it. They need to learn their place in the pack and accept you as a pack leader. You cannot force this on a dog by shouting and hitting. It has to be established by the natural order of things like mutual consent and brought about by proper training. If your puppy is not made aware of his place in the household and the rules to abide by, then he will end up ruling you and your family. Be firm, but never aggressive with your dog. If you do it wrong then, you will either frighten him or teach him to be aggressive. Keep training short and fun, especially at the beginning. If you have adopted an older dog, you can still train him, but it is a lot harder for them to unlearn bad habits. Training Tip 2: Your voice is your most important training tool Your dog has to learn to understand your language. The tone of your voice is very important. You should command in a calm, authoritative voice without shouting. Praise the puppy in a cheerful, encouraging voice, followed by a stroke or a pat. If your dog has done something wrong, use a firm, stern voice, not a harsh scream. This rule still applies even if your Labradoodle is unresponsive at the beginning. Training Tip 3: Only give command that you can enforce Labradoodles are intelligent dogs. Training Tip 4: Train your dog gently and humanely. Use positive and motivational methods to teach your puppy. Keep training sessions upbeat, so the whole experience is enjoyable for both of you. Training Tip 5: Begin your training from home How well your dog responds to you at home affects his behavior away from home as well. Training Tip 6: One command equals one response Give your dog only one command — twice maximum — then gently enforce it. Repeating commands or nagging will make your Labradoodle tune out. It also tells him that the first few commands are a bluff. But a relationship based on fear is not a good one, and it will undermine your relationship with him. He should trust that when he hears his name, good things happen. His name should always be a word that your Doodle responds to with enthusiasm, never hesitancy or fear. If he gets lots of attention when he jumps up on you, his bad behavior gets reinforced. Training Tip Timing is critical When your puppy does something right, praise him immediately. Similarly, when he does something wrong, correct him straight away. This technique works surprisingly well. Training Tip Give your dog attention when YOU want Labradoodles are sociable creatures, and they love being with you and involved with the family. While you are training him, it is good to give your puppy lots of positive attention when he is good. But if he starts jumping up, nudging you constantly or barking for your attention, then ignore him. If you give in to his every demand, then he will begin to think that he is the boss and become more demanding. Wait a while and pat him when you want, and when he has stopped demanding your attention. Training Tip Be Consistent In terms of rules and training, treat your fluffy little Doodle pup as a grown-up. Make him abide by the rules you want him to live by as an adult. You may want to put your pup on a leash to hold his attention in the beginning. Stand facing each other and hold a treat a few inches above his head. Stroke and praise him for as long as he stays in the sitting position. Practice it in short sessions until he does it every time. After a while, he should do it just from command, without moving the treat over him. When he does, give him a treat anyway. If he jumps up on his back legs and paws while you are moving the treat, be patient, and start all over again. Another method is to put one hand on his chest and with your other hand, gently push down on his rear end until he is sitting. Give him a treat and praise, even though you have made him do it. For example, when you are putting his leash on, while you are preparing his meal, when he fetches the ball, or when he is demanding attention or getting over-excited. They do it all the time with their siblings in the litter. It is a game for them. But when they arrive at your home, they have to be taught that human body parts are not for biting. Try not to encourage play-biting. As a puppy grows and feels more confident in his surroundings, and he may become slightly more aggressive. His bites may hurt someone, especially if you have children or older people at home. Make sure to have a soft toy nearby every time you have a play session with your puppy. When he starts to chew your hand or feet, clench your fingers or toes to make it more difficult and distract him with the soft toy in your other hand. Keep the game interesting by moving the toy around or rolling it around in front of him. He may continue to chew you, but will eventually realize that the toy is far more exciting and livelier than your body parts. If he becomes over-excited or too aggressive with the toy and starts growling a lot, then stop playing with him, and walk away. If your pup is more persistent and tries to bite your legs as you walk away, thinking this is another fantastic game, stand still and ignore him. Your puppy may well jump back in amazement, surprised that he has hurt you. Train a Labradoodle Not to Jump The reason why a labradoodle jumps up onto humans is that they want to get your attention and say hello. As you are taller than him, he has to jump to get your attention. Sadly, it might not be enjoyable for your guests or other people having an unknown dog jumping on them. As a dog owner, you must stop your dog from bothering other people. You can try the below techniques to train your labradoodle not to jump: When your dog starts jumping, follow training tip 9. Do not look into his eyes and stand straight up with your arms crossed. When his paws touch the ground, pat him. Repeat the exercise until he stops jumping. If your dog is jumping on a guest, then ask your guest to turn around and ignore him. Labradoodle Crate Training Crate training is the process of teaching your pup how to behave and enjoy spending time in a crate. Along with housetraining, this is one of the first things you should do when you get a new puppy. The idea behind crate training is that dogs like to have their particular spot. This place is a Safe Haven where only they can go. It teaches them to hold it until they are let outside to potty. Crates are not for every Labradoodle, and you should NEVER use them to imprison the dog while you are out of the house all day. Doodles are not like hamsters or pet mice, which can adapt to life in a cage. But, used correctly, a crate can help to: Housetrain your dog Keep your dog safe when traveling Create a doggy bedroom or place where your Labradoodle feels safe. If you use a crate, then remember that it is NOT a prison to restrain the dog. It should only be used humanely, and time should be spent to make the puppy feel like the crate is his safe little haven. Place the crate in the corner of a room, away from cold draughts or too much heat. Labradoodles like to be near their pack so, leave him where he can hear you. Crate Training Here are some techniques that you can follow to make your puppy to accept a crate and then to want to spend time in there. He might not be very happy about going in at first, but he will be a lot easier to crate train than an adult dog Drop a few tasty treats around and then inside the crate. Keep the door open. Do not close the crate door yet. Place a chew or treat inside the crate and close the door while your pup is outside the crate. He will be desperate to get in. Open the door to let him in and praises him. Fasten a long-lasting chew inside the crate and leave the door open. Let your puppy go inside and spend some time eating the chew. After a while, close the crate door and feed him some treats through the mesh. At first, do it for a few seconds at a time, then gradually increase the time. If you do it too fast, he will become distressed. Slowly build up the amount of time he is in the crate. For the first few days, stay in the room, then gradually leave the room for a short time, first one minute, then three, then 10, 30 minutes, and so on. The next points are very important to make the crate training successful: Do not let the dog immediately out of the crate while he is barking, or he will think that barking is the key to opening the door to the crate. Wait until the barking or whining has stopped for at least 10 seconds before letting him out. If you do decide to use a crate, remember that a dog is NOT a caged animal. Use the crate for limited periods and only if your dog is comfortable in there. NEVER force a dog to go in and then lock him in for hours on end. From about the age of three weeks, a puppy will leave his sleeping area to go to the toilet. Therefore, you need to teach him that it is unacceptable to make a mess anywhere inside the home. It depends on how quickly your puppy learns and how persistent and patient you are. Follow these steps to speed up the potty-training process: Constant supervision is essential for the first few weeks if you want to house train your puppy quickly. This is why it is necessary to book the week off work when you bring a new puppy home. Making sure you are there to take him outside regularly. If nobody is there, he will learn to urinate or poop inside the house. Take your puppy outside to the same place every time. Dogs naturally develop a preference for going in the same spot or on the same surface -often grass. Take him to the same patch every time, so he learns this is his toilet — preferably an area in a far corner of your garden or yard. No pressure — be patient. You must allow your Doodle pup to wander around and have a good sniff before he does his duties. Stay around a short distance away instead of leaving him. Sadly, puppies are not known for their powers of concentration. They may become easily distracted, and it may take a while for them to select that perfect spot to wee pee on! Share the responsibility. Just make sure you stick to the same routines and patch of ground. Take your pup outside at the following times: As soon as he wakes — every time Shortly after each feed. Over 6 Months Old 8 week old Labradoodle Puppy Training At 8 weeks old your puppy has only just arrived home, so your main focus will be on helping them to settle in, bonding and starting that all important potty training process. Potty Training Your brand new puppy will need to have the opportunity to pee as much as every twenty minutes for the first few days. They will also need to pee or poop after every meal, and every big drink. Socialization Have four different sets of visitors to the house, and go to at least four busy places with the puppy in your arms. Sweet Goodbyes Puppies find it hard to be left alone, so we like to sweeten up those goodbyes with treats! Every time you need to briefly leave the room, drop a handful of kibble behind you to make it seem like a good thing for your pup. Follow me Puppies are naturally inclined to follow you at 8 weeks old, and you want to encourage that instinct. When outdoors in the backyard change direction lots, and give lots of treats and cuddles in exchange for them coming after you. Recall Blow your recall whistle we use five short pips when your puppy is running full pelt towards you. They will have started to understand that outdoors is the place to pee, and have gained a tiny bit of bladder control. But they will still need a lot of help! Socialization should still be in full swing this week, and your increasingly confident puppy will need help remembering to keep her teeth to herself. Potty Training Your puppy will still need lots of opportunity to pee outdoors in order to reduce accidents. Socialization Meeting people is really important this week. Take your puppy to four new places, and have four sets of visitors. Carry them while you are outdoors. Rewarding Eye Contact Whenever your puppy looks up at your face, pop a treat in between her paws or into her mouth. This will start to encourage her to look up at you more often, in the hopes of something scrummy. We close our treat laden palm when the puppy approaches, open it again as they back oiff and feed the treats to them with the other hand. This helps them to start learning that staying calm and keeping a little distance will get you treats quicker than biting and snatching at them. This week you might start to see those teeth come into action. Remember to remove attention from the puppy when they bite hard on your skin. At just under 3 months old your puppy will have lots of confidence, and be accidentally getting themselves into all sorts of jams unless you are really careful. The window for socialization is closing soon, so make the most of those last couple of weeks to build up their knowledge of people and the world around them. Potty Training At 10 to 12 weeks your puppy will be able to hold its bladder for maybe as long as two and a half hours during the day. If you get an accident in the house, reduce that time down again. And make a note of when your puppy pees so as not to lose track. Over these weeks try to go to two new busy places and two new sets of visitors each week. Rewarding calm behavior Now is the time to help your dog learn to relax. Every time you catch your Labradoodle puppy relaxing, pop a treat between their paws. This will encourage her to chill out even more! Introduce off leash heel position You can start to teach your dog to walk nicely next to you at this point. We begin this process by reinforcing them for standing next to you with the clicker and treats. Recall To work on your recall, whistle your puppy for running towards you as you run away. Give them lots of treats as a reward when they arrive. You can also whistle when giving meals to build up strong positive associations with this cue. Bite inhibition Labradoodle puppy biting can really ramp up at this age. Remember to remove attention when your puppy bites hard. Either standing up, or even leaving the room or popping them in their crate or playpen temporarily while they calm down. This is your final chance for socialization, and it needs to be carried out in a more relaxed way. But at least you can pop your pup on the ground now! Recall Whistle your puppy for running towards you as you walk away, rewarding them with lots of treats when they arrive. Stand with your puppy on the leash, and carry them between locations so as not to upset future heelwork progress. Introduce sit We introduce the sit at this stage, but in a very relaxed informal way. We do so indoors only, when there are no distractions. This is begun without a cue or command, by capturing the position. Potty training should be pretty established. Your goal is to encourage your dog to focus on you and to become a well mannered member of the family. Your puppy should still be given the chance to pee at least every two to three hours. As well as after meals! Changing directions Puppies are more confident at this age, so you need to keep them keen to stay near you. When outdoors in the backyard or at the dog park, keep changing direction regularly. Be unpredictable, and when they follow you back it up with lots of fuss and treats. Off leash heelwork Off leash heelwork training moves from establishing the position to taking a few steps forwards at this stage. Make sure you use lots of praise, and only practice in a familiar, boring area. And one with no distractions! Go slowly, and make sure your pup stays focussed on you. Introduce down We also introduce the down position at this age. This is done without a cue like the sit was the previous month, by capturing the position. Advancing the sit The sit advances further at this stage. Once that is well established, you can begin to very slightly increase duration and distance one by one. Adding distance, duration or distractions to things they already know. Where you get your dog used to doing as you ask them, in different locations or with distractions. Or for longer! Adding distance, duration or distractions We do this step by step, only increasing one thing at a time. So if you want your dog to sit for longer, you will do it somewhere they already happily sit and with no one else around. And thinking of adding a distraction like another dog? Then do it somewhere they are familiar with, and with that dog a long way away to begin with. On leash heelwork We love teaching heelwork off leash. It helps your dog to walk nicely next to you, without ever having the opportunity to pull. A dog that has never wandered ahead is less likely to try to do so even with a leash. Training Methods I cannot recommend positive reinforcement training enough. Positive reinforcement involves rewarding your dog when they do something that you want them to, by giving them something they like. Food is usually the best thing to motivate your dog with, but toys work well for some dogs too. When you use positive methods you can start training your puppy from the very first day they arrive in your home. And logical to know how far you expect a puppy to be able to have come at different developmental stages. Labradoodles are clever and focussed, but they also have a fairly high prey drive. Training is a marathon, not a sprint, and every dog takes their own time. Just remember to only move on to more challenging training situations for them when they have totally mastered the stage before. 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Staff The puppies, just a day after we found them in a box. I know because I found one on an annual sojourn to Baja. But sometimes, the saddest thing can turn into something so happy it hurts. Such was the case with this story. It was a beautiful evening. My girlfriend Stevie and I were driving our rusty old camper van towards town, creaking our way along a washboard road towards a goodbye dinner. She had a flight booked for the next day to go back to work in northern Alberta, a cold, desolate place filled with money and unhappy, transient workers, and we were on our way to drink too much tequila and laugh about how incredible the last few weeks had been. Behind us, the sun dumped buckets of orange-hued paint at the foot of a rapidly darkening horizon. That incredibly fine Mexican dust swirled around the tires as we drove, coating the sidewalls and windows like soft velvet, shafts of light from the setting sun piercing it, setting it ablaze with dazzlingly bright motes of dust that caught the light and flickered like fireflies. To the north, an arroyo was stopped in its tracks by a massive rocky headland that fell dramatically into the Pacific. As we came to a bend in the road at the foot of a small hill, I spotted a tiny creature on wobbly legs being herded off the road towards an open patch by two skinny, mangy dogs. Should we stop? When our feet hit the ground, we changed not only our trip but the trip of everyone on the beach we were camping on. The trip was a long time coming. We ended up living on the street in Venice, parking in different spots most nights, pissing in kitty litter jugs, dodging the Venice two a. Mexico was to be my redeemer. It was to be the trip I promised… but what I promised did not include a box of diseased puppies that might soon be dead. Advertisement We stopped and got out of the van, then watched as the puppy was flipped into a wax lettuce box by the mangy adult dog. There was no sound from the puppy, nor from the box itself—not a whimper or a whine—but it was evident that the box was full. On closer inspection, we found what looked to be seven tiny puppies, perhaps five weeks old, covered in fleas, ticks, sores, and an incredible amount of vomit and shit. For a minute, we considered leaving them. I needed to get back to the office and Stevie needed to be back at her job in the northernmost reaches of Alberta. As it would be for anyone, though, it was impossible to drive away, so we began scooping the puppies out of the box and putting them on a blanket from the van. It was horrible. As it turned out, there were eight. The eighth, who would be named Emmy, was at the bottom, curled in a fetal position, her little eyes shut tightly. She was the runt, and her brothers and sisters lay on top of her, voiding themselves of their sicknesses as worms and parasites ravaged their tiny bodies. At first glance, she seemed dead. We pulled her limp and lifeless body out of the box, fleas leaping off her in frightening numbers, her patchy, wiry fur coursing with them. Setting her down on the blanket, however, she stood briefly on her own, opened her dull eyes slightly, looked up at us, then collapsed back into her fetal position. The adult dogs looked on carefully, growling deep in their throats, as we tried to clean the puppies up as best as we could. Instead, they were more likely to be two other strays that happened on the box and took it upon themselves to protect them as best as they could. With time, they backed off and watched from the roadside. For the next few days, they could often be found just a few hundred yards away pacing back and forth outside a camp nearby. After a while, though, they vanished into the dust and the puppies stayed with us. And then something incredible happened: the entire community of traveling campers on that beach came together to make sure these sick little creatures would be alright. There was one person in particular who assumed the brunt of the responsibility. Reynolds, a soft-spoken tree worker from North Carolina, became the surrogate father to all the dogs. About eight feet in length, it sat in front of his tent beneath a shade cloth, a donated kennel from another camper down the beach serving as a bedroom. Their bellies were massively distended from worms, their noses coated in glossy lice eggs. Their ears were infested with ticks that gorged on their blood, and the fleas were thicker than their mange-ridden fur. She spent her days and nights in his jacket next to his chest, soothed by his body warmth and his heartbeat. For days, the puppies hung on by a thread. Fed by hand with syringes full of puppy milk, they slowly regained their strength. Tentatively, they began playing with each other, nipping gently, mewling like kittens, and fighting over food. Their bellies, still swollen with worms, began to get smaller. With medication from a nearby vet, vast amounts of worms, white and thick as bean sprouts, came out in their shit. Mites infesting their skin died and came to the surface in pus-filled infections, and hatch after hatch of fleas was killed off by endless flea baths and powders. By this time, Stevie and I were supposed to be home. Her shift began the day after we found the box. I called my boss and asked for a more time in Mexico. As the puppies gained strength, the inevitable question arose: what were we going to do with them? We all asked around about local shelters, but most of them were packed to the brim with abandoned dogs. Over-populated and under-funded, Baja dog rescue operations are incredibly sad places run by people with hearts of gold. Slowly, the puppies gained strength. Photo: Lindquist For the next few weeks, a handful of us struggled to make it known that we had puppies that needed homes. We brought them to markets and spread the word through nearby towns, urging anyone and everyone interested in becoming a dog owner to come and have a look. Stevie and I were taking one, but we had no idea which. The other six puppies were homeless, skinny, and although they were rapidly getting better, they were still very sick. It was a worrisome situation. I thought often about what it would be like to drop a few remaining puppies at a shelter and walk away from them, and it was difficult to imagine. All of a sudden, though, things snowballed. A few of us had been wandering between the stalls with armfuls of struggling, floppy puppies, telling anyone who stopped us the story and letting them know they were available for adoption to good homes. The girl, whose name has escaped me, immediately took a shine to Distendo—later to be named Ruca, if memory serves—and, after a brief conversation with her boyfriend, decided to take her. Ruca, not so distended anymore. She was skinny as a rail, feisty as all hell, and desperate for love. By the next morning, Craig and Andrea had decided to become the proud new owners of the newly-named Renny, after Reynolds. A few weeks later, after Craig left, Andrea came and stayed at my house in Malibu on her way north. She parked the Delica on my street and brought Renny up for the evening. She was a different dog: active and happy, it was as though she knew just how lucky she was. Now, she lives in Tofino, Canada, and judging from the videos, is primed for a wonderful life. Renny, working hard on her beard. Firefighters in the winter, Brad and Robin are deep wells of adventure stories, permanently smiling and seemingly unfazed by anything and everything the rigors of travel can throw at them. They slept with the dogs in their camper for two months, continuing their exploration of Baja, before driving through the US and eventually dropping the dogs off in a small town on Vancouver Island to their to use a horribly over-used foster dog phrase forever-home. On the way home to their new home. Of the eight, I felt that she would be the last to go. Then, an extraordinarily nice family appeared on the road. A gaggle of giggling children and two even-keeled, amazingly happy parents chose her from the pack, and Chihuahua Girl became Daisy. Daisy in North Carolina, interested in these strange new creatures. After a difficult goodbye, he left Emmy with me and Stevie. Ocho Guacamole, testing out van life… better than box life. After a week with Emmy and Ocho in the van, Stevie and I packed them into kennels and squished them under the seats of a bound for Vancouver. Ocho, as he does, cried like a baby half the time, only quieted by handfuls of dog food. After a surprisingly easy border crossing thanks to an amazing Mexican vet who may or may not have fudged their birthdates by a few days , a short stay in a hotel, and another quick plane ride to Vancouver Island, we were home. The van stayed in Mexico in a storage area for quick strike missions, along with most of my surfboards, all my bedding, and nearly every pot and pan in my kitchen. Ocho on left, Emmy on the right. Their first day in Canada. Reynolds then flew from North Carolina to Seattle, rented a car, drove across the border to Vancouver, took a ferry to Vancouver Island, picked up Emmy, then turned around and did the whole thing in reverse, only this time, he had his little girl with him, hidden in the backseat of the rental car when he crossed the border. She was so small and so helpless in the bottom of that box on the side of the road. Now, after a chance encounter on a dusty road at the southern tip of Baja, here she was in Canada, waiting for the man who literally saved her life with body warmth, hand-feeding, and love. Reynolds, though, needed her. And she needed him. Emmy, a far cry from that shriveled little creature who had given up on life. Surf trips are fun, but ultimately not all that rewarding. Surfing is a selfish pursuit. A wave has to be mind-blowing for the memory to last a lifetime. Surfing is just the vessel for the real experience. Yeah, the waves were fun, but waves will always be fun. That box full of half-dead, shit-covered little dogs? Photo: Lindquist. Photograph by Robin Schwartz When I was a child, my greatest dream was to find a box full of puppies. And every shoebox, every discarded Manhattan Mini Storage vessel had the potential to change my life. By the time they were fully grown, they would follow me down the streets of SoHo, off-leash. In reality, I was deeply dog-less. My first and worst pet was a newt that choked to death on a bad worm. Next came a hairless cat my mother bought on Greene Street. We lived in what was essentially one big room, on Broadway. My mother had been the proud owner of Cindy, a shepherd-collie mix with serious aggression issues and a pathological obsession with Ritz crackers. At the age of six, my mother was both her captor and her protector. When it was really hot, he liked to run to the riverbank and roll in dead eels. He survived a German-shepherd attack in which he lost part of an ear. Both these dogs seemed to me like outcasts, kooks, pains in the ass who the adults secretly wished would just succumb to their own vices already. When I was fifteen, I took the box-of-puppies fantasy into my own hands. Walking down the main drag of Brooklyn Heights, where we now lived, I stopped to pet a tan mutt, the mascot of an animal-rescue group that had set up a booth at the corner of Montague and Hicks. There were several girls and a man. I do remember, though, that what came next was a very bad afternoon. It involved my dreams coming true and the empty dread that often follows that experience. I climbed into a van with Elias Koteas, who told me that there was a pit-bull mother dead in a box! Just think of the puppies—three of them, he had said, their bodies cold, starving. In the van, one of his colleagues, a silent frizzy-haired woman, filled dog bowls with dirty water. I could hear it sloshing as we rumbled down Atlantic Avenue. It was dusk by the time we reached the parking lot. It had started to drizzle. Elias Koteas told me to follow him, and I did, to a shipping crate in the corner of the lot. I peered in. They were barely puppies. More like kidney beans, slick and cool, eyes still sealed shut. They whimpered, but quietly, no louder than baby birds. Elias Koteas urged me back to the van. I wandered for blocks, the puppies hidden in my orange parka. I saw a laundromat and went inside to get warm. Someone noticed the puppies and suggested that I stuff them into the socks without mates sitting atop a dryer, which I did. The office was just closing, but I opened my coat and flashed the receptionist my puppies, like a freelance salesman on Canal Street, and she quickly ushered me in. The vet was a young, sweet man. Definitely Jewish, which is something I care about only in times of crisis. He checked each dog for a cleft palate and explained that I had to feed them every two hours, and that I should rub their anuses with a hot cloth to express their bowels. It never occurred to me to ask whether the vet might keep them there, at the office, where the staff was better equipped for transient pit-bull infants than a fifteen-year-old girl might be. After all, my parents were on a trip to California and my sister, Grace, was only nine. On the walk home, I named them—Uno, Bruno, and Devo. Imagine how lively our house would be when we had three grown pit bulls! I presented them to the babysitter, who reacted with the only appropriate emotion: horror. I was too old for a babysitter but still too young to be trusted alone with Grace. The first night, I woke up every hour on the hour, heated the bottles, rubbed the anuses. It was the weekend, so I had all the time in the world to spend with them. But by the end of the second afternoon I was an Octomom-style mess. She lived in Bay Ridge and was agoraphobic, she explained, so there was no way she could meet me to collect the puppies. Besides, she said, she had no room at all. I waited until my father got home, then made him do it, but I refused to join my family in the car, claiming that it was too painful a goodbye. While they were gone, I holed up with a boy I vaguely liked who had a very chapped lower lip. We did, eventually, get a family dog. I was very invested in him for a short while, until I started watching Criterion Collection movies and eating meat and getting generally more excited about human company. The misfit child no longer needed a companion, and the terrier was ignored, like the Velveteen Rabbit. Nothing about my life these days makes me an especially good candidate for having a dog. I have issues waking up. I am one step away from doing that awful rom-com thing where a New York City working woman with limited space but unlimited pluck fills her oven with sweaters and shoes. I also realize that writing about dogs is a very tricky business. Or perhaps your words will have the droopy intelligence of a Thurber dog. The same caveats apply to conversation about dogs. Just discussing your dog can be as tiresome and offensive as talking about the weather, your own dreams, or the newest wrinkle in your married sex life. At least when people talk about their children, there is a chance that the kid will grow up to be President. After what feels like decades of making ill-advised forays into Spartan Chinatown living rooms and pretending to enjoy wine, I have met someone I love and respect, and I want to make decisions that honor and consider him. It would be a mistake to create a situation that compromised his comfort or made him less likely to squeeze me all night long. My boyfriend is allergic to dogs. Nevertheless, the itch returned last year, when, during an extended existentialist spin-out, the same family dog I had abandoned so many years ago dragged himself to my side and refused to leave. Suddenly, I find myself Googling dogs, looking into their dumb dog faces, reading about which foods will poison them grapes, chocolate, some sugarless gums and which celebrities love them Glenn Close. I imagine how much better everything would be with a dog. Walks to get the paper or a bagel. Long car trips, a wild head of Einstein-y fur in my lap. Sitting on the couch, reading a book, and occasionally flicking his ear with my toe. The rescue people dump his tags and toys into a plastic evidence bag, as if he were leaving prison. It should be noted that this place is an entirely professional operation. Quiet, limp as a sack of laundry, he kisses me softly whenever he has the chance. Everyone tells me how lucky I am. Friday, I drop him at day care. That afternoon, my sister breaks up with her girlfriend. I tell her she should sleep over, and she agrees. We all go to dinner and then pick up Lamby, who bounds out of day care and into the sub-zero night to greet us. I am lucky. But the minute we arrive home it gets weird: Lamby picks up a stuffed toy in his mouth and shakes it hard, as if to break its neck. My boyfriend reaches his hand out to calm him and Lamby lunges, biting him. In the bathroom a little while later, we are brushing our teeth when Lamby saunters in, calm, like your college roommate the day after an acid trip, acting like everything is normal. I promise. He bounces slightly, shocked, then curls his tail around one crooked leg and heads for the front door, where he barks loudly at no one. At bedtime, I shut Lamby in the living room with my sister, who needs the comfort, but, a moment later, it starts: the sound. Something between a sob and a siren, it is how Lamby expresses a doleful emotion that he experiences roughly twice a day. My boyfriend nods, a good sport with a long red scratch on his forearm. Lamby trots in, does several laps around the room, then stretches across the foot of the bed. You know, a creature. That might bite my feet. What have I done? We had such a nice life. I cling to my boyfriend and pull my feet up close the way I did when I was a little girl and thought alligators lived at the bottom of the bed, waiting to snap. Finally, everything settles. It seems as though we could sleep this way every night and even come to love it. What was I so anxious about? A siren wakes me at 3 A. Lamby stands, ready to fight. I kneel over her and she shows me the offending text message. Lamby makes himself busy, circling her, placing a spitty chew toy on any exposed skin he can find. Once she calms down, he does, too. On the arm of the couch. This is where we will stay. But any attempt on my part to be alone—meditating, showering, walking out into the hallway to dump trash down the chute—results in that same siren sound. Sometimes he takes a break to flash his erection at me, red as a sunburn and made even more vulgar by the jaunty bandanna the groomer has tied around his neck. At night, he conks out around ten. My building skews old. So when an ambulance pulls up to our door I never panic. Lamby does. One night, an ambulance is parked outside from 3 A. I try shutting the blinds. Covering his ears. Pushing him out of my bedroom. The ambulance leaves, but Lamby starts again when the woman below me coughs, a deep weak rumble that I often mistake for male sounds of sexual pleasure or the evening news. At A. Before I even knew about you, I was waiting for you. When you were born, I was only twenty-five years old. But I needed you. He wakes up only one more time in the night, with a single bark that trails into silence. I kiss his little mouth, his ears that smell like corn chips and old water. I love you. I love you so much. He is mine, and I am old enough to have him. We are all adults here. Read More.

Lifespan Sociability This designer dog breed might not be the most common, but it is certainly an adorable mix. The better the lineage of one or both of the parents, the more expensive it will be. Finding a Poo-Ton at a dog shelter might not be an easy task, but you can always ask around and you never know when you might find one, or at least a mixed dog that resembles the Poo-Ton. When you bring a Poo-Ton into your home, be ready to have a friendly an affectionate dog by your side. Early socialization and training are essential for them to get along with other dogs and to remain calm around strangers. Poo-Ton dogs are hypoallergenic. Yet dogs are given these labels if they have a higher tendency not to affect allergies. Regarding mixed dog breeds, if the parents have the genes to be hypoallergenic, then this can impact the puppies. If only one breed does and not the other, the puppies end up with a varying degree of effect on the allergies of people. The Poo-Ton are long-lived pups compared to other small breeds. Poo-Ton dogs not only inherit the desired hypoallergenic traits from their parents, but they also inherit a long life. The Coton de Tulear typically lives years, and Miniature Poodles live for an average of 15 years. This combination can live anywhere from 12 to 16 years and sometimes even beyond. Taking excellent care of the dogs can help extend their lives for as long as possible. Only specific poodles can be used to breed a true Poo-Ton. Not just any Poodle can be used to breed a Poo-Ton. This is partially to maintain its size, as a standard poodle can stand 18 to 24 inches tall, dwarfing the small Poo-Ton. The most noticeable characteristics of these dogs are the affection and love that they shower their people with, along with their energy. They are vigilant dogs and can be trained to function in multiple different capacities, such as a watchdog, albeit their small size. This breed is also called Doodle-Ton, Cotondoodle, or Cotonpoo because of the fluffy coat. Because of how intelligent this dog is and their desire to please their masters, they easily pick up new tricks and commands. They love to have fun and are quite responsive. Incorporating training games into their sessions helps keep them engaged and satisfies their playful nature. They are not known to be excessive barkers but may bark at strangers if they come close. If your puppy tends to bark more than most, this may be something to work on in training. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are rarely aggressive and love to play. These traits, combined with their small size, make them perfect pets to have around if there are small children in the home. However, it is always a good idea to keep an eye on small children and dogs during playtime, no matter the breed. This breed tends to be sociable and friendly. If the pups are socialized, especially if done early, they will be happy to have other dogs and even cats as new playmates. Summary Pooton Generations The Pooton dog, a perfect combination of the Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, has become a popular designer dog breed in recent years. As with many hybrid breeds, understanding the different generations of Pooton puppies is essential for prospective owners. F1 Pootons are known for their small stature, floppy ears, and curly coat, making them an excellent choice for those seeking hypoallergenic dogs. F1 Pooton puppies tend to be highly intelligent and affectionate, making them great family pets and companion dogs. They have a playful nature, but their exercise needs are moderate, with a daily walk and mental stimulation being sufficient. It is important to remember that F1 Pootons can inherit traits from both parent breeds, so the appearance and temperament may vary between puppies. The F1B Pooton is an excellent choice for those seeking an even more hypoallergenic dog breed due to the higher percentage of Poodle genes. F1B Pooton puppies inherit the intelligence and affectionate nature of their F1 counterparts, making them excellent family pets and companion dogs. They may have a more curly coat than the F1 generation, but their exercise needs and small size remain similar. F2 Pootons often display a wider range of characteristics, as they can inherit traits from all four grandparents. F2 Pooton puppies can have a medium-length coat that may be curly or wavy, depending on the inherited traits. They still maintain the intelligent and affectionate nature of their F1 and F1B counterparts, making them great family pets and companion dogs. Exercise needs and size remain consistent with the other generations. Pooton History The Poo ton dog, a delightful designer dog breed, has gained popularity in recent years due to its small size, hypoallergenic coat, and charming temperament. This mixed breed, a combination of Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, is an excellent choice for first-time dog owners and those living in small spaces. This small, affectionate dog was once a companion to the Malagasy royalty and later became popular among French settlers. As a breed with an affectionate and playful nature, the Coton de Tulear has been a beloved companion dog for centuries. Poodle: A Breed with Many Talents The Poodle, the other parent breed of the Poo-ton, is one of the most intelligent and versatile dog breeds. Originally bred in Germany for water retrieval, the Poodle has been used for various tasks, including hunting, herding, and even circus performances. There are three Poodle size varieties: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. As a designer dog breed , the Pooton combines the best traits of both parent breeds, including intelligence, affection, and a hypoallergenic coat. Pooton puppies quickly became sought-after pets due to their playful and loving nature, making them great family pets and companion dogs. Pooton Appearance The Pooton dog, a delightful mix of the Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, has won the hearts of many dog lovers with its unique appearance and hypoallergenic coat. This small, playful, and intelligent designer dog breed is an excellent choice for first-time dog owners and those living in small spaces. Size and Weight The Poo-ton dog is known for its small stature, which makes it an ideal companion for small living spaces. Adult Pootons typically weigh between 7 to 14 pounds, and their height ranges from 8 to 11 inches at the shoulder. Despite their small size, Pootons are sturdy dogs with a compact body, short legs, and a well-balanced frame. Coat Characteristics One of the most appealing traits of the Poo ton dog is its hypoallergenic coat, which combines the features of both parent breeds. Pootons have a medium to long coat, which can be curly or wavy, depending on the inherited traits from the Coton de Tulear and Poodle parents. Their coat comes in a variety of colors, including apricot, lemon, white, black, grey, brown, and sable. Their head is typically rounded with a moderate-sized muzzle, and their dark, expressive eyes add to their endearing appearance. Poo-tons have short tails, which may be carried high or low, depending on the individual dog. Ears, Eyes, and Muzzle Pootons have floppy ears that are set at the side of their head and covered in a soft, curly or wavy coat. Their eyes are dark and round, contributing to their friendly and intelligent expression. Pooton Lifespan Studies have shown that the Pooton has an average lifespan of years, which is comparable to other small-breed dogs. However, like all dogs, their lifespan can vary depending on various factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and healthcare. Pooton Ideal Environment The Pooton dog, a delightful mix of the Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, is known for its small size, intelligence, and affectionate nature. This designer dog breed is an excellent choice for first-time dog owners and those living in small spaces. Indoor Living and Small Spaces One of the many appealing traits of the Pooton dog is its adaptability to small living spaces. Due to their small stature, Pootons can comfortably live in apartments or houses with limited space. They are well-suited to indoor living and enjoy spending time with their human companions. Socialization and Training Poo ton dogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners. Early socialization and training are vital to ensure your Pooton develops into a well-mannered and confident dog. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, are highly effective in teaching your Pooton new tricks and good behavior. Outdoor Access and Safety While Poo-tons are well-suited to indoor living, they still require access to outdoor spaces for exercise and exploration. If you live in an apartment or a house without a yard, regular visits to a nearby park or dog-friendly area will allow your Pooton to enjoy the outdoors and socialize with other dogs. However, they are not suited for extreme weather conditions. In colder climates, consider providing your Poo ton with a warm sweater or coat during winter months. Similarly, in hot climates, ensure your Poo-ton has access to shade and plenty of fresh water to avoid overheating. Pooton Temperament The Pooton dog, a charming mix of the Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, is known for its affectionate and intelligent temperament. This small, hypoallergenic designer dog breed has become popular among first-time dog owners and those living in small spaces. Affectionate and Loyal Poo tons are known for their affectionate nature and strong bond with their human companions. These intelligent dogs are quick learners and eager to please their owners. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as praise and treats, making them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners. Poo-tons enjoy learning new tricks and engaging in training sessions, which also provide valuable mental stimulation. Playful and Energetic Despite their small size, Pootons are playful and energetic dogs that love to engage in games and activities with their families. They are a great fit for families with small children, as they enjoy playing with and entertaining their human companions. Adaptable and Good-Natured One of the many appealing traits of the Poo-ton dog is its adaptability. This breed can adjust well to different living environments, making them suitable for both small apartments and larger homes. Pootons are generally good-natured dogs that get along well with other pets and family members, making them an excellent addition to a variety of households. Pooton Grooming Pooton dogs, a delightful mix of the Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, have a unique and hypoallergenic coat that requires regular grooming and maintenance. This will help prevent matting and tangles and keep their hypoallergenic coat clean and healthy. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue, as this can cause skin irritation. Ears Regular ear care is essential for Pooton dogs, as their floppy ears can be prone to infections and buildup of debris. Use a soft, damp cloth to gently clean the outer part of the ear, being careful not to insert anything into the ear canal. If you notice any signs of infection, consult your veterinarian for appropriate treatment. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort and potentially lead to more severe health issues. Regular teeth brushing can prevent the buildup of tartar and plaque, which can lead to dental issues and bad breath. In addition to brushing, you can also provide dental chews and toys to help keep their teeth clean and healthy. Pooton Nutrition A balanced and nutritious diet is essential for maintaining the health and well-being of your Pooton dog. This designer breed, a mix of the Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, has specific nutritional requirements that must be met to ensure a happy and healthy life. Calories The caloric needs of your Poo-ton will vary depending on their age, size, activity level, and metabolism. In general, Pootons require fewer calories than larger breeds due to their small size. Look for dog food formulas that list a high-quality protein source as the first ingredient to ensure your Pooton receives the necessary nutrients. Carbohydrates Carbohydrates provide energy for your Pooton and are an essential part of their diet. Avoid dog foods with high levels of simple sugars, as they can contribute to obesity and other health issues. Look for dog food formulas that contain healthy fats, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can be found in sources like fish oil and flaxseed. How Much to Feed Your Pooton Determining the right amount of food to feed your Pooton will depend on their age, weight, and activity level. In general, Pootons should be fed high-quality, small-breed dog food, divided into two or three smaller meals throughout the day. Consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations on how much to feed your Poo ton based on their individual needs. As a general guideline, an adult Poo-ton weighing around 10 pounds may require approximately 1 cup of food per day. Pooton Training Pooton dogs, a delightful mix of the Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, are intelligent, playful, and affectionate, making them excellent family pets. Training your Pooton is essential for ensuring good behavior, socialization, and a strong bond between you and your furry companion. Start Early Begin training your Poo ton puppy as early as possible. Enroll your puppy in a puppy kindergarten class or socialization group to expose them to various situations, people, and other animals. Consistency is Key Consistency is crucial when training your Poo-ton. Ensure that all family members are on board and use the same commands, rules, and techniques. This will help your dog understand what is expected of them and make the training process more efficient. Positive Reinforcement Pooton dogs, like their parent breeds, are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them highly responsive to positive reinforcement training methods. Use praise, treats, and toys to reward your Pooton for good behavior and successful completion of training tasks. This will create a positive association with the training process and encourage your dog to repeat the desired behavior. Incorporate playtime and mental stimulation into training sessions to keep them enjoyable and beneficial for your dog. Socialization and Obedience Training Proper socialization and obedience training are essential for preventing small dog syndrome, a behavioral issue that can occur in small breeds like the Pooton. Expose your Poo-ton to various situations, people, and other animals to help them become well-rounded, confident, and well-behaved dogs. Address Separation Anxiety Pootons can be prone to separation anxiety due to their affectionate nature and strong attachment to their owners. To prevent this issue, gradually acclimate your Poo ton to spending time alone. Begin by leaving them for short periods, gradually increasing the duration over time. Provide toys and treats to keep them occupied and create a positive association with alone time. Pooton Exercise Pootons, a charming mix of the Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, are energetic and playful dogs that require regular exercise to maintain their health and happiness. Daily Walks Poo tons benefit from a daily walk to help burn off energy and maintain their overall health. If your Pooton has a higher energy level, consider incorporating a second, shorter walk or additional playtime into their routine. Playtime Playful by nature, Poo-tons love to engage in interactive play with their human companions. Provide your Pooton with a variety of toys, such as balls and tug toys, to keep them entertained and active. Playing fetch, tug-of-war, or hide-and-seek are excellent ways to bond with your Poo ton while ensuring they receive the physical and mental stimulation they need. Mental Stimulation As intelligent dogs, Pootons require mental stimulation in addition to physical exercise. Training sessions that incorporate new tricks or commands also provide excellent mental stimulation and help reinforce the bond between you and your Poo-ton. Indoor Exercise Due to their small stature, Pootons are well-suited for apartment living and can adapt well to small spaces. Indoor exercise can be a valuable addition to their routine, especially during inclement weather. Consider setting up an indoor agility course or playing interactive games inside to keep your Pooton active and entertained. Regular visits to dog parks or arranging playdates with other dogs can help your Pooton burn off energy while developing essential social skills. Ensure that your Poo-ton is well-behaved and supervised during these interactions to prevent any issues with other dogs or people. Pooton Health Issues Pootons, a delightful mix of the Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, are generally considered a healthy designer dog breed. However, like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions inherited from their parent breeds. Sebaceous Adenitis Sebaceous Adenitis is a skin condition that affects the sebaceous glands, which produce the oils necessary for maintaining a healthy coat and skin. This condition can cause hair loss, scaling, and inflammation. If you notice any signs of Sebaceous Adenitis in your Poo ton, consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Regular grooming and skin care can help manage this condition and prevent secondary infections. Hip Dysplasia Hip Dysplasia is a genetic condition in which the hip joint fails to develop properly, leading to arthritis and joint pain. While this condition is more commonly seen in larger dogs, it can also affect smaller breeds like the Poo-ton. Maintaining a healthy weight and providing regular, low-impact exercise can help reduce the risk of Hip Dysplasia. If you suspect your Pooton may be suffering from this condition, consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment options. This condition can lead to symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. Mitral Valve Disease Mitral Valve Disease is a heart condition that affects the mitral valve, which controls blood flow between the left atrium and left ventricle of the heart. This disease can cause a heart murmur, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian, including monitoring for heart murmurs, can help identify Mitral Valve Disease early and implement appropriate treatment to manage the condition. Regular eye exams can help detect PRA in its early stages, allowing for appropriate treatment and management to slow the progression of the disease. While there is currently no cure for PRA, advancements in veterinary medicine may offer new treatment options in the future. Final Thoughts Owning a Pooton can be a great decision. They are family-friendly, intelligent, low maintenance, love to play, and are loyal companions. They excel at agility and obedience competitions and make great therapy dogs. Their hypoallergenic coat makes them perfect for people who suffer from allergies, and they provide unconditional love and companionship to their owners. So, if you are looking for a new furry family member, consider getting a Poo-ton, and experience the joy and love they will bring to your home! Summary Pooton dogs are a mix of Coton de Tulear and Miniature or Toy Poodle, resulting in an intelligent, playful, and affectionate breed. Ideal for apartment living and small spaces, Pootons require daily walks, playtime, mental stimulation, and socialization for exercise. Training should start early and focus on consistency, positive reinforcement, short, engaging sessions, socialization, obedience, and addressing separation anxiety. Grooming includes regular brushing, bathing, ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care. Proper nutrition involves a balanced diet of calories, protein, carbohydrates, and fats, with portion sizes adjusted according to age and activity level. White, black, brown, cream, gray Suitable for: Families with allergies, those living in apartments, and first-time pet owners Temperament: Fun, playful, intelligent, responsive, social, and sweet But what exactly goes into caring for a Poo Ton, and how do you tame the stubborn streak that they sometimes have? We break down everything that you need to know here and help you decide if a Poo Ton is the right dog to add to your home. 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. If you have a second or third-generation Poo Ton puppy, then the price will drop significantly. Poo Tons are great family-friendly dogs and are very smart and easy to train. Poo Ton puppies need a balanced diet, exercise, and mental stimulation to grow into healthy and happy dogs. Are These Dogs Good for Families? However, due to their small size, you do need to be careful with them around smaller children, who can fall on them or otherwise accidentally hurt them. This is especially likely because your Poo Ton will want to stay in the mix of things despite their size. Still, you should always supervise smaller children around pets to prevent injuries to both the child and the pet. While you still need to socialize them properly, the Poo Ton typically gets along great with other pets. But just like you need to be careful with your Poo Ton around smaller children, you need to be careful with them around larger dogs as well. The Poo Ton sometimes forgets their small size, and a larger pet can easily step or fall on them and injure them without meaning to. A post shared by Mia Cherry Winter Honey Daisy itsthedoodlegirls Things to Know When Owning a Poo Ton While a Poo Ton is a relatively easy dog breed to care for, there are a few basic care requirements that you should be aware of before purchasing one. We broke them down for you here. Fenced-in yards are not required, but your Poo Ton would likely enjoy the extra space to roam. However, their intelligence can also lead to a bit of a stubborn streak on their part. The best way to get around this is to keep training sessions short, stay consistent, and use positive reinforcement. Poo Tons want to please their owners, and the more positive attention that you give them, the more it will reinforce positive behaviors. You also need to take them to a groomer every 2—3 months to keep the length of their hair in check. Next, you need to keep up with typical grooming requirements, like nail trimming, as needed and to brush their teeth a few times a week. Keeping up with their oral hygiene might be a pain until your dog gets used to you brushing their teeth , but it can end up saving you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in dental work. If you notice any of the following conditions in your Poo Ton, you need to take them to a vet as soon as possible. Minor Conditions. Give them small puzzles to figure out with treats as rewards, or hold energetic training sessions with games and fun new commands. Activities like these help prevent boredom and keep them active and healthy. The Poo-Ton is a highly intelligent dog, inheriting positive traits from its impressive parents. The most noticeable characteristics of this dog are the affection and love that they shower their people with, along with their energy. They are vigilant dogs and can be trained to function in multiple different capacities, such as a watchdog, albeit their small size. This breed is also called Doodle-Ton, Cotondoodle, or Cotonpoo because of the fluffy coat. Because of how intelligent this dog is and their desire to please their masters, they easily pick up new tricks and commands. They love to have fun and are quite responsive. Incorporating training games into their sessions helps keep them engaged and satisfies their playful nature. They are not known to be excessive barkers but may bark at strangers if they come close. Are These Dogs Good for Families? These dogs are great fits for families. They are rarely aggressive and love to play. These traits, combined with their small size, making them perfect pets to have around if there are small children in the home. This breed tends to be sociable and friendly. When these pups are socialized, especially if done early, they will be happy to have other dogs and even cats as new playmates. Training Due to their sweet personality, they have a deep desire to please their trainers and owners. During training, they pick commands up quickly with a firm consistency and plenty of positive reinforcement. Owning a Poo-Ton is as close as you might get to owning a fluffy angel. This breed is cuddly, loving, and smart. Should a Coton de Tulear Mix take after their Coton parent, they will be a small dog with a lovable, charming, and playful personality. They will love spending time around their favorite humans and being affectionate with them. A Coton de Tulear loves being the center of attention. They will often engage in clownish and comedic antics to get the attention they love so much. They also tend to be friendly and affectionate dogs with just about everyone. This means they tend to get along well with children, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. If they take after their Coton parent, you can expect something similar in a Coton de Tulear Mix. But, the other parent breed will introduce their own set of quirks and traits, so you want to make sure you ask the breeder about them. Although the breeder should have started some socialization and training, it is up to you to continue to train and socialize a puppy once you get them home. This will help your Coton de Tulear Mix puppy grow into a confident, well-rounded, and well-mannered dog. Coton de Tulear tend to be highly adaptable dogs. They do well in apartments, larger homes, and most climates. They do tend to get cold easily, so you will want to bundle up with some winter dog products while out on walks during the winter to keep them warm. Because they bond so closely with their families and love attention, they do not do well with alone time. If the other parent breed is also highly adaptable, then you can expect a Coton de Tulear Mix to be highly adaptable as well. You still want to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix as they will introduce their own traits that could affect adaptability. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? Just as a mix could inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, they could just as easily inherit all of them or some combination of them. From the Coton de Tulear side, potential health concerns to be aware of in a Coton de Tulear Mix include heart disease, eye conditions, and hypothyroidism. They can also be prone to developing allergies and sensitive skin. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. The Coton de Tulear is an intelligent dog that picks up on things quickly and is eager to please. This makes them a highly trainable dog breed that is a good fit for owners of all experience levels. If the other parent breed is also highly trainable, then you can expect a Coton de Tulear Mix to be a highly trainable dog as well. If the other parent breed is more difficult to train, first-time dog owners may want to be prepared to enroll in puppy training classes in case they need them. A mixed-breed dog can inherit a coat that is similar to one of their parents or one that is a mix of both of them. Should a Coton de Tulear Mix inherit the Coton coat, they will be low-shedding and require grooming every weeks. If they are kept in a short puppy clip, weekly brushing is sufficient. If their coat is kept longer, they will need daily brushing. Cutting nails once or twice a month is usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. As a small dog breed, a Coton de Tulear Mix is even more prone to developing dental issues, which makes practicing good dental care for dogs even more important. Daily brushing or use of an enzyme toothpaste in addition to regular cleanings at the vet is ideal. Coton de Tulear tend to sit in a low to moderate activity range and will often match whatever you are doing. Although they may be energetic while playing or being active with you, they are not high-energy dogs and will tire out relatively easily. If the other parent breed is similar, then you can expect a similar activity level in a Coton de Tulear Mix. If the other breed has a different activity level, then you will need to be prepared for that potential range in a Coton de Tulear Mix. A fully-grown Coton de Tulear usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. The other parent breed could have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother, so you want to ask the breeder about them. That can give you some idea of what size to expect in a fully-grown Coton de Tulear Mix. Coton de Tulear generally live for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span for a Coton de Tulear Mix. Currently, we do not have any Coton de Tulear Mix puppies available, but we can alert you when new Coton de Tulear Mix puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address!

German Shepherds for sale in Iowa Regis Regal Specializes in providing world class German Shepherd puppies and trained adult dogs Serving Iowa with german shepherds since With over 30 years experience in the breeding and training of world-class German Shepherds from some of the top bloodlines out of Germany, here at Regis Regal German Shepherds we've been very proud to have sold our puppies and adult dogs to the residents of Iowa. We're a small family run operation with our main training and breeding facilities based in Spring Grove, Illinois, just next door to the state of Iowa. Because of the quality and pedigree of our German Shepherds there's been a demand for our dogs all over the world. The owner, Cynthia Kelly, has a lifetime of experience in creating the perfect family companion, service dog or therapy dog. Because of the lack of top quality German Shepherd breeders in some parts of the United States, we've carefully set ourselves up so that we can send our dogs direct to your home by use of a private courier service. German Shepherd Breeders in Iowa There are a number of great German Shepherd breeders in Iowa, from Des Moines to Waterloo, but have you considered looking further afield for the perfect puppy? At Regis Regal German Shepherds we produce a select number of puppies at any one time, and take the utmost care when raising and training them ready for ownership. You should not forget that when it comes to buying a puppy you also need to be mindful of other costs outside of the purchase or adoption fee. Send us a message or give us a ring on .Emotional support dogs are suited for both children and adults and have the ability to work with their owners in all types of locations. We have placed many dogs with children and teenagers in Iowa that suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and manic disorders. Service dogs provide a physical service to their owners. We have been incredibly successful in providing service dogs to children afflicted with Autism and Asbergers, as our dogs can help to enhance the verbal skills of non-verbal Autistic children and support their overall way of communicating. Some of our previous placements our dog courier service - we ship to your door in IA! You might find this a bit hard to believe but we actually ship right to your door, wherever you are based in the US! Such is the demand for one of our dogs we decided it would make things a lot easier for our customers if we could hand-deliver them right to you. For those people in need of a top class GSD, and who can't get to our premises, this is a bit of a lifesaver. We make use of a private courier service whereby they come to us and pickup the dog in their vehicle before making the journey to your home. Our driver is well trained in the handling and care of your dog on the trip, and due to their temperament our dogs always enjoy the journey! On rare occasions our dogs have flown out to their destination, again accommpanied by one of the Regis Regal team to ensure for a very smooth and calm trip. We also go through a very thorough process to make sure our dogs are going to the right kind of owner - at the end of the day it's really important that we can rest easy at night knowing they'll be going to someone that's going to love them as much as we do. Because of COVID we've held plenty of online meetings where you can ask us any questions about our dogs, and you can even get to meet-and-greet them virtually! Reviews from Customers based in IA We like to think we've made a lot of people in Iowa happy over the years that we've been in business. Take a look below at some of the feedback we've received to date. You can find more reviews of ours here too. She teaches amazing and helps you understand how to take care of the dogs. As well as the dogs are cute and have a strong learning behavior. As you can imagine this can change quite regularly - so please send us a message below, or give us a call on .We look forward to hearing from you! Your name. Lady This sweet momma came to our rescue with her two babies as a part of a neglect case. Lady enjoys her foster siblings but doesnt need to be with them. She doesnt mind her foster cat siblings and has been around kids! She loves to be where her foster mom is at all times! Lady is still a little timid when doing new things or going to new places. We are still working on going up and down the inside stairs to bed and kennel. She is 4 years old and is potty trained! Does Lady sound like she could be a part of your family?! This girl is an angel! She seems to be potty trained and is very well behaved! She likes to have her people near her but also likes to be in her own space where she feels comfortable. Her favorite is butt scratches and she will ask for belly rubs!! She knows sit, shake, down. Before throwing the ball, she has to sit. She gets so excited. She loves playing in water and will jump up to catch any water splashed at her. This girl is amazing on a leash too, she gets a little excited to smell every once in a while but once you pull the leash, she takes the correction and is back to your side. She is cat friendly as she avoids them at all costs. Could this girl be the right fit for you? She is ready for her furever family at anytime! Adult, Female, Large Lola Name: Lola Occupation: Showgirl Likes: Food, everything, everyone, puppy toys Dislikes: Being lonely, computer printers, world hunger This gorgeous beauty queen hails from the mystical small town of Fairfield, Iowa, where she was temporarily loved by the good people of Noahs Ark Animal Foundation, and where she won her first beauty title of Best Ears. Thanks to that experience, Lola has gone on to win other good doggy titles such as Most Energetic and Employee of the Month, with her foster family in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Lola is an 8 month old all white German Shepherd that would do best in a home that has experience with the breed and is prepared for puppy energy, such as a home with older kids as she can be a bit rambunctious at playtime and might knock down smaller children. She is housetrained and knows a few basic commands and tricks but would do best in a home that will continue her training to become the best version of herself. An obedience class would do her wonders as she is a very quick learner! Lola would also do best in a home that has someone there most of the day. She will not be adopted to a family that plans to crate her all day, as she is still trying to grow hair back on parts of her legs from being kenneled for long periods of time. Lolas foster mom works from home and Lola is only crated when everyone in the house will be gone, however she will most likely grow be able to be trusted to roam free alone in a home eventually. At night she is not crated but prefers to sleep with or near her people for instance the hallway outside bedrooms. Some nights she will make the rounds and sleep with everyone, to make sure no one in the family misses out on her cuddles! Lola is a very loving and delightful puppy that would make any family a very good companion that gives her returned love and attention. She told us that she is already very excited to meet you! I am a petite girl who enjoys freedom in the house but dont let my good looks fool you - I am a very smart girl and love to steal food when youre not looking! I am a polite GSD who doesnt jump on humans but I do like to bark when the mail gets delivered. I am potty trained and I know sit, stay, and will usually wait for my food if you tell me! I love squeak balls and love a good hard chew. Im not sure how I feel about other dogs - I see them at the groomers but I usually start to squeal. Im kind of picky when it comes to other dogs and Ive never met a cat before. Ive never met a stranger I didnt like and Ive even been around kids, old and young! I have a fenced-in backyard but I usually stay on a leash because I still havent mastered coming back when called. Im looking for someone who has patience and knowledge of GSDs and would love someone who can take me for a nice, long walk. Senior, Female, Large Mia Mia is a sweetheart of a gal looking for a forever home that will love and cherish her. Mia is great with people, kids, and dogs. Mia is super playful. She has a genetic condition called MegaEsophagus. Her throat does not push food down to her stomach. To help her eat, Mia must sit in a "Bailey Chair" to eat softened food. She must then sit for 30 minutes while gravity works its magic. Mia knows her chair and her routine. Mia must also drink from an elevated water dish. If she eats in any different way, she will likely regurgitate and may aspirate. Due to her condition, she underwent a gastroplexy with her spay. This means you will never have to worry about bloat with Mia. With attention to detail, Mia can live a long happy life. She will reward you with a kind heart and dedication. Mia is whip smart. Mia has basic obedience down and would shine in good citizen and advanced obedience classes. Mia's chair and supplies will come with her. He has been with his foster since June .He is heartworm negative and up to date with his vetting, including neuter. Moe gets along great with dogs. Although Moe has not been tested with children. We have no reason to believe that he would be a problem with them. We are not sure about cats. She was an owner surrender because she was not very nice to the feral kitties in the neighborhood. We will not place her in a home with cats. Nova is great with dogs and children. She is a lovely girl in the home, content to lay at your feet as you work or relax. Adult, Female, Large Pepper Pepper cam into our rescue with her sister and mom, life has not be kind to her. Pepper and her family were part of a neglect case in Oklahoma. Pepper is a very sweet girl, but she will need lots of love to get her confidence back up! Pepper does not mind cats and has been around kids. Pepper is approximately 2 years old and is potty trained. Because she is so shy and timid, she is still working on leash training. We would like Goldy and Pepper to stay together! Do they sound like they could be a part of your family?! A friends daughter fostered her and found her to be sweet. However, it didnt work with her other pets, so she took her back. Princess had a hard time at the shelter with a few incidents. I agreed to take her, and my friends daughter pulled her on the day she was to be euthanized. I picked her up in early April. At the time, she had heartworm. Treatment was completed. Shes probably due for a check on it now. The Dallas shelter had her as 13, but everyone here thinks shes younger. Maybe .When she was surrendered, she was in heat. They spayed her at the shelter. Since Ive had her, shes been sweet to others other than the growls at repairmen. She likes to lick people. Now the special issues she has. Princess has separation anxiety. Shes gone from Prozac when I picked her up to trazadone. The trazadone helps a lot. Acepromazine was too strong, but the boarding place I use sometimes gives her half doses if needed. I can now leave her for several hours without anything happening to the house. She became smart to my tricks to get her into the crate at night, so I leave her out now. She really doesnt get along with other animals. I was told that when I got her, so Ive left my four cats in bedrooms since she arrived. Thats a huge reason why Id like to find her a forever home. Im not skilled with dogs though, so maybe someone could help her overcome that problem. I understand that she was surrendered with another dog. I also go out of town a lot, so I end up boarding her. She is kept away from direct contact with other dogs. Its been mentioned that she has made a lot of progress since she started there. Shes less reactive when other dogs go by her pen. I think the best scenario for her would be with someone who is home a lot and has no other pets. She definitely loves her humans. The sweetest most gorgeous GSD mix who cant wait to find her new home! Rachel has had a rough start to life but that doesnt stop her one bit! Rachel has love for everyone and everything she does. We think she is about 2 years old but in those 2 years she was likely never inside. So know if you would like Rachel as part of your family that she will need training. She doesnt understand how house life works, whats acceptable and whats not. As her fosters we have taught her a few basics but with just a few short weeks with her she will need lots of attention in her new home. Shes a master counter surfer. She does great with the 2 young kids in her foster home ages 4yrs and 18months and also with the other 2 German Shepherds in the home male and female. We do not know how she does with cats or small dogs. I believe Rachel would benefit from having another dog in the house who loves to play as much as she does! She is so playful and full of energy she could go for hours! She is very much a Velcro dog, she will follow you step for step everywhere you go. This gorgeous girl is ready to share her sweet, smart and sensitive self with her forever family! Adult, Female, Large. My name is Ralf aka Ralfy aka Ralfy Palfy. My fosters gave me the last nickname because they say I will make someone a great Pal. You see, I was found on the side of the road barely alive after being hit by a car. I couldn't walk very well because my pelvis was broken in three places. But after visiting this place called the veterinarian, I started feeling much better. Unfortunately before my accident I had never met kind humans and still to this day, I'm very easily startled and scared of new people. It's going to take someone very special and patient to earn my trust. But once you earn it, I'm the sweetest and most gentle dog ever. I love love love chest rubs and ear scratches. But my number one love of all time is treats!!! I love all flavors so if you decide to take me home, don't be shy when shopping for me! I enjoy sunbathing and relaxing in my kennel. It's my safe place when I feel overwhelmed. I promise to love you if you promise to take the time to get to know me. I will do best in a quiet house with maybe 1 or 2 adults and an older mature doggy friend. I don't care much for traveling and prefer to be a homebody. I do love to play with doggy friends and don't mind cats either. I'm currently working on becoming more confident in public spaces. What do you say? Can you give me a shot? Ralf is kennel trained and potty trained. He is a local adoption only. His current foster is a trainer who is willing to offer two free sessions along with his adoption to set you both up for success and better help you understand what he will need and how you can help provide that for him. He is a Shepherd mix that weighs roughly 50lbs.

And Allergies All the above health issues can be serious and devastating to a Goldendoodle, but most can be screened for early on. You can also help reduce the chances of the above health issues in your Mini Goldendoodle by getting your puppy from a reputable breeder, keeping up with routine vet visits, and ensuring your Mini Goldendoodle eats a quality diet. However, there is a health issue that could come on suddenly and unexpectedly in your mini Goldendoodle known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus GDV , or Bloat. Bloat occurs when air fills the intestine, causing the stomach and other organs to flip. However, Bloat can also come on suddenly. Symptoms include panting, excessive drooling, extended abdomen, unproductive vomiting, obvious distress, lethargy, and collapse. If you notice signs of Bloat in your mini Goldendoodle, seek immediate medical care from a veterinary professional. Standard sized Goldendoodles are not recommended for apartment living due to their larger size and high energy level. However, the mini Goldendoodle is an excellent alternative to owners looking for this hybrid dog to join their family in an apartment or smaller space. Much more compact than their standard-sized counterparts and thus less energetic, the mini Goldendoodle does fabulously in apartments. Still, so long as his exercise and mental stimulation needs are met, the mini Goldendoodle is a wonderful and adaptable companion to homes of all sizes. He does not necessarily need a backyard, though he will enjoy one. Mini Goldendoodles are also relatively quiet dogs, which is great for small-space living and for those of you with neighbors nearby. If left alone for too long, you may wind up with chewed furniture, bathroom accidents and more. To avoid this, try not to leave your adult mini Goldendoodle alone for longer than five hours at a time, and consider crate training him while you are at work. When done properly, crate training can help reduce anxiety and depression and help keep your Goldendoodle happy, healthy and well-rounded. We did mention above how important a quality diet is for your mini Goldendoodle, and for good reason. Mini Goldendoodle dogs are smaller than their standard Goldendoodle counterpart, and thus they have a higher metabolism. As such, they are going to do best on a quality dog food specified for their age and weight. Smaller dogs require more calories than large breed dogs in order to stay full and feel their best. They should also eat dog food that is rich in real meat protein, fatty acids, carbs, vitamins, minerals, and has a good source of water. Avoid dog foods that include additives, fillers, soy, wheat, corn or animal byproducts, and instead choose quality brands you trust. Do you love options? Bred in the United States by breeders hoping to create hypoallergenic service dogs, the American Goldendoodle is a family favorite. He comes in several color combinations and is a cross between the purebred Poodle and purebred Golden Retriever. This combination often creates a lighter colored Goldendoodle dog that is white or cream colored, like in the image above. Regardless of which version of mini Goldendoodle you get, you will be happy to learn that temperament and health are still relatively the same across the board. These dogs are easy to groom, simple to train, and affectionate to boot. This means they will be friendly and outgoing and will make for a low-maintenance dog both inside and outside of the home. Of course, all dogs require commitment and care, so even a low maintenance dog like the mini Goldendoodle will need an owner who is devoted and ready. That said, the mini Goldendoodle is an ideal dog for first-time dog owners with flexible schedules, children in the home, and even other pets. Properly socializing your mini Goldendoodle will greatly reduce problematic behaviors like fear-based aggression, anxiety and stress. To socialize your mini Goldendoodle, try and introduce him to as many new people, places, sights, sounds and experiences as you can at an early age. Work to make these first impressions positive for your Goldendoodle to help reduce fear-based behavioral issues, and get him used to being physically handled by children, men and women. This is a crossbreed that will enjoy learning. He is eager to please and incredibly smart, so training will be fun and quick. The mini Goldendoodle will do best with positive reinforcement training techniques like treats and praise as opposed to punishments. Refrain from punishing or scolding your mini Goldendoodle, as this could lead to your mini Goldendoodle shutting down. Though smaller than standard sized Goldendoodle dogs, the mini Goldendoodle is still a hybrid that comes from two athletic and energetic parent breeds. As such, the mini Goldendoodle will do best with routine exercise each and every day to stay happy and healthy. Experts recommend that the mini Goldendoodle gets at least 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day and plenty of playtime in between. Your mini Goldendoodle will enjoy numerous exercise activities like swimming, running, jogging, and dog park activities or playdates with other dogs. Along with routine exercise, a mini Goldendoodle will also need plenty of mental stimulation. Because this breed is so intelligent, he will appreciate playing with puzzle toys that challenge him and keep him engaged. He will also do well when given chores to do around the house. In fact, many people find that their mini Goldendoodle is an excellent help when it comes to sorting laundry, loading the dishwasher or even carrying in the mail. Remember, Goldendoodles were bred service dogs , so the more they feel they are helping you the happier they will be. Mini Goldendoodle dogs are friendly by nature and know no strangers. They are much more likely to greet an intruder with a wagging tail than to bark or snarl. Of course, this is great news for those who want a quiet, friendly and happy-go-lucky dog. Mini Goldendoodles Are Super Easy To Groom Because of their hypoallergenic coats, mini goldendoodle dogs are easy to groom and maintain. Because mini Goldendoodles are hypoallergenic, their coats are often easier to maintain. The exception to this rule is if you allow your mini Goldendoodle to grow his coat out longer. Though they do shed less than many other dogs , they can be prone to matting and skin issues if they are not properly cared for. Mini Goldendoodles should be groomed and brushed a few times a week with a dematting comb designed to remove tangles and mats. They should also be bathed once every three weeks or so using a dog-safe shampoo and conditioner. Try not to overbathe your mini Goldendoodle as doing so could throw off his PH levels and lead to skin problems, dry spots and patchy fur. Along with routine bathing and brushing, your mini Goldendoodle should have his ears cleaned and checked regularly to keep them free of buildup and reduce the chances of ear infections. He will also need his nails trimmed often to keep them from cracking or splitting during play and exercise. Mini Goldendoodle dogs are like little furry shadows. They become very bonded with their family and want to be in the middle of all the action. Unfortunately, this can also mean that your mini Goldendoodle is prone to suffering from separation anxiety. In order to help your mini Goldendoodle cope with being alone when you leave, try committing to a schedule. Most dogs do much better when they know what to expect. It might also be a good idea to have special toys set aside and designated for when you leave. Coming across a mini Goldendoodle can be more difficult than finding a standard sized Goldendoodle. This is because mini Goldendoodles usually take a few generations to perfect in order to ensure they are smaller than their standard counterparts. For this reason, going through a breeder may cost you a pretty penny. Beware of backyard breeders or unqualified online sellers promising mini Goldendoodle puppies for a bargain price. You are much more likely to wind up with a sick puppy if you go this route, and this will cost you more money in the long run. Instead, go through breeders who are certified and understand the importance of responsible breeding practices. Many qualified breeders will also be able to provide you with certificates of health. Another option you have when looking for a mini Goldendoodle is to go through a rescue that specializes in Goldendoodles or doodle dog mixes. Rescues usually charge a fraction of the price that breeders charge and you may even be able to get a free initial vet exam. Whichever route you choose to take when it comes to getting your mini Goldendoodle, just be sure to do plenty of research and take your time. Remember, investing in a mini Goldendoodle requires a long-term commitment. Enjoy the ride and thanks for reading! Jen Jones Jen Jones is a professional dog trainer and behavior specialist with more than 25 years of experience. Well known for her intuitive and compassionate approach, Jen adopts scientifically-proven, reward-based methods, encouraging positive reinforcement over punishment. Jen specializes in obedience training, behavior modification, and puppy socialization. Her innovative methods, particularly in addressing anxiety and aggression issues, have been widely recognized. More info: 1. Their gentle temperaments make them a great addition to the family. Mini Goldendoodles make fantastic family pets. They are non-aggressive, highly intelligent, loving, playful, fun, sweet, and enduringly loyal. Sensitive to tone of voice, the mini groodle is eager to please and very social. Additionally, because of their low prey drive, Mini Groodles tend to get along very well with other companion animals, like other dogs and cats. This hybrid is excellent with kids of all ages, and is gentle enough for interaction with even the youngest children in the family. The Mini Goldendoodle is versatile for various social purposes. Because of their friendly, gentle natures, Miniature Goldendoodles thrive as service and therapy dogs. Their loyalty, protectiveness, and affability make them an ideal partner for people with disabilities. Mini Groodles are also excellent sniff dogs and guide dogs, with some even becoming check dogs and steer dogs. This crossbreed is capable of doing it all! Mini Goldendoodles do not make good watchdogs. This crossbreed is not known to be noisy, and in fact, they bark infrequently. Your Mini Groodle may not even bark when someone comes to the door! Due to their quietness and openness toward people — even total strangers — the Miniature Goldendoodle is not recommended as a watchdog or as a dog for protection. This hybrid is hypoallergenic and perfect for owners with allergies. Have you ever wanted a dog but your allergies prevented you from owning one? The Mini Goldendoodle might just solve both problems. One of the essential characteristics of this crossbreed is its low shedding factor. Mini Groodles who have more Golden Retriever in their genes will have longer fur and therefore some minimal amounts of shedding. Those Groodles with more Miniature Poodle in their genetics will rarely shed at all. Although no breed is entirely allergen-free, the Miniature Goldendoodle is as close as you can get. Mini Goldendoodles have a moderate energy level and are easy to train. The Mini Groodle is a moderately active dog who requires around 20 to 30 minutes of daily exercise. They adapt quickly to most hot and cold weather climates, making them an excellent all-weather dog selection. This crossbreed is excitable but will match their energy level to yours, so plan on snuggling on the couch together. Mini Groodles are eager to please and very smart which means they are incredibly easy to train. This dog will not need many training repetitions because of how swiftly he learns commands. In particular, Mini Groodles make good agility dogs and the retriever in their bloodlines means that many learn to swim and love it. Miniature Goldendoodles are active enough to help you stay active too, so pick up that leash and head to the park! These dogs are all about low maintenance grooming. Little to zero shedding equals a typically low maintenance dog. The Miniature Goldendoodle is a relatively easy keeper in the grooming department. Get ready to have your new buddy by your side — a lot. Miniature Goldendoodles are so loyal and people-oriented, they may want to be with you all the time, and that can be a problem. Mini Groodles may become too attached to their owners and suffer from separation anxiety when left to their own devices. Separation anxiety can result in unwanted behavioral issues, such as constant barking, howling, chewing, and other destructive actions. To prevent separation anxiety, make sure you socialize your Mini Groodle properly and give him plenty of mental stimulation, such as puzzles, to ward off boredom and chewed up furniture until you return home. Parentage presents some potential health concerns. All dog breeds have medical issues associated with them, but in the case of a crossbreed like the Miniature Goldendoodle, there is a double dose of concern. Both Golden Retrievers and Poodles have genetic maladies and are prone to certain diseases, like cancer. Here is a list of the potentially serious health concerns that mini groodles may develop: Progressive retinal atrophy is an inherited disease involving the bilateral degeneration of the retina, eventually resulting in blindness. Dogs suffering from this illness experience excessive bleeding for even minor skin wounds. Patellar Luxation is a dislocated knee injury common to toy and miniature breeds. Hypothyroidism is an illness resulting in an inadequate production of hormones by the thyroid gland. Other, less severe conditions that the miniature goldendoodle may have are ear infections, allergies, and hip dysplasia. Always be sure to purchase your dog from a reputable breeder. Because Miniature Goldendoodles are hybrids, they are susceptible to having health issues and varied coat colors. You can avoid some of the health issues associated with this crossbreed by purchasing your dog from a reliable, proven breeder. A conscientious, responsible breeder will offer the following: a genetic test to check for inherited diseases an uninflated, reasonable price proper socialization for puppies, preferably with exposure to children veterinary records with updated vaccines and worming two-year health guarantee Avoid getting your dog from a puppy mill, and ensure a long, happy, healthy life with your Mini Groodle by purchasing her from a good breeder or adopting her from a rescue organization or shelter. As mentioned above this designer dog has an average height of 13 to 20 inches 33 to 51 cm and can weigh between 40 to 50 pounds 18 to 22 kg , some can reach a weight of 40 or 50 pounds 18 to 23 kg. This pooch uses its manageable size as a way to deal with this quirk. Another issue with this breed and most miniaturized canines is these health problems. Still, each dog is unique and some are more vocal than others. This hybrid can be an energy-filled furball, especially during their puppy stage through adolescent years. Poodles are bred to work and Golden Retrievers are used for sports. With highly active parents, how energetic will their Doodle offspring turn out? How much time should you keep aside to provide the exercise a Mini Goldendoodle on a daily basis? Conclusion With a Miniature Goldendoodle, you get the best of both worlds: the friendly, eager to please Golden Retriever, and the loving, loyal Miniature Poodle. The Mini Groodle makes the perfect family dog and is versatile enough for everything from swimming to service. So are you ready for a Miniature Goldendoodle? Many Mini Groodles are thrilled with their canine companion, but you need to determine if this crossbreed will be a good fit for your family and home life. What do you find attractive about the Mini Groodle? If you own a Mini Groodle, what do you enjoy most about her and what do you wish you had known before you brought her home? Let us know your thoughts about the Miniature Goldendoodle. Leave us a comment and share your experience with this popular crossbreed. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. Could they be company for each other? Could an older person expect to be able to pick up a mini golden doodle if it becomes unable to walk upstairs, jump up on the bed, etc. Wrapping Up Breed History The Miniature Goldendoodle first debuted in the mids and was meant to be a dog that combined the tenderness of the Golden Retriever with the intellect and coat of the Miniature Poodle. Poodle The Poodle is an old breed that dates back many thousand years. They were working dogs from Germany, recovering waterfowl for hunters. The French people adored the Poodle and bred it in three sizes: Standard for recovering waterfowl , Miniature for truffle hunting , and the Toy Poodle. Poodles were famous for the extravagant Poodle hairstyle , which circus workers initially fashioned. They taught these dogs to amuse. While the Poodle is typically considered elegant, it is a dog with a good sense of humor, is easy to train , and has a friendly, easy-going personality. What is a Moyen Poodle? Golden Retriever The Golden Retriever is a devoted and kind dog who responds well to training. Lord Tweedmouth developed the breed in the nineteenth century in Scotland. He desired an attentive, loyal, yet playful dog. It can collect ducks without causing harm to the bird. Goldens function well as both working dogs and companion dogs. Their success has been attributed to their loyal nature. The American Kennel Club recognized the Golden Retriever in , and it became one of the most popular breeds in the world. The most well-known purebreds are well-known for being wonderful family pets, dedicated and loyal to their owners. They love youngsters and enjoy clowning around with them. They adore everyone and everything, especially their loved ones. They are kind to seniors and tolerate children of all ages. If they grow up alongside other pets, they will get along with them too. They have an outgoing demeanor, which has one drawback. They suffer when left alone and may experience bouts of separation anxiety. They may weep, whine, pine, dig, chew, and damage your favorite things during your absence. Contact a doggie daycare or a local dog walker to assist you if you must leave them alone for long hours. This Mini Goldendoodle is rocking a sweatshirt and hoodie, channelling some serious Eminem vibes. The price might vary depending on the breeder and generation of the Goldendoodle. The F1b generation is the most sought and expensive. The price of a Goldendoodle is critical! You may have a poorly bred dog if you cut corners on the cost. Purchasing from a poor breeder to save expenses also helps puppy mills stay in business. Puppy mills breed their canines excessively. You risk receiving an unhealthy dog with a bad temperament when you purchase a Goldendoodle for a low cost from an unethical breeder. Such breeders do not run genetic tests and follow improper breeding practices. This may lead to many vet bills, increased training expenses, and even medical and legal fees. Genetic testing aids in the prevention of the breeding of dogs with harmful genes or health and mental disorders. Those unfortunate overbred dogs stuck with uncaring breeders spend their whole lives in kennels, usually in a small environment, in unhygienic conditions, sitting in their pee or excrement. These breeders confine their puppies to kennels without allowing them to interact with humans or other dogs. This, in turn, leads to an uneven disposition. Breeders have scammed many Goldendoodle owners. Make sure you select a trustworthy breeder. Mini Goldendoodle puppy in a bucket. However, note that they do not tolerate cold as well as their larger relative, the Regular Goldendoodle. So if you live in a region with harsh winters, the Mini Goldendoodle may not be a good fit. This Mini Goldendoodle and his chunky friend Shedding All dogs shed, so they may all be allergenic. However, Goldendoodles are hypoallergenic , meaning they are less likely to cause allergies. These dogs shed significantly less than many other breeds and create less allergen-inducing dander. This is fantastic news if you or someone in your household is allergic to dogs. For starters, feed them a high-quality diet, groom them regularly, and bathe them as needed. This means the puppy will learn faster than the average dog and may be able to perform more complicated tasks or even work as a service dog. Positive thinking and reward-based training work best for them, as they do for all dogs. Dogs learn by operant conditioning , which means they are more likely to repeat an action if it has positive consequences. So, when your dog is acting properly, encourage and praise them with toys, cuddles, and treats. If they are not displaying the desired behavior, ignore and redirect to encourage the desired behavior. Give your dog a chance to learn and build them up for success through repetition. Sure, the Mini Goldendoodle is kind and gentle, but it may not be able to protect the house while you are away. This crossbreed is not loud, and they only bark occasionally. Your Mini Goldendoodle may not even bark when someone knocks on the door! A Mini Goldendoodle drying out in the sun and sand after a swim at the beach. Grooming Needs To keep their skin and hair clean, healthy, and well maintained, Goldendoodles require professional grooming. You can also groom your dog at home. However, the average pet parent is not interested in extensively grooming their dog at home. Furthermore, it might be hazardous, especially if you attempt to remove matting. Just learn how to do the basic grooming, brushing , and bathing. Improper grooming techniques may lead to wounds and uneven hair lengths. Using clippers incorrectly may badly hurt your dog, and they may require medical assistance. Dog grooming tools for your dog. So 10 to 20 minutes of moderate exercise per day is generally sufficient. Tossing the ball around your house and playing fetch are easy ways to keep your dog physically fit and active. They will require more vigorous exercise as they grow. Goldendoodle plays with a ball. While there is some truth to this theory, and while most tiny Goldendoodle dogs live long and healthy lives, it is still vital to address the health risks that this crossbreed is prone to. Regardless of its hybrid vigor, your Mini Goldendoodle may be susceptible to the same health difficulties as its purebred parent breeds. To download your free ebook, please confirm your email address. Temperament and personality Due to their cross breed status, Miniature Goldendoodles have unique temperaments and personalities. Friendly Like their Golden Retriever parent, Mini Goldendoodles are gentle, friendly, and eager-to-please. They love meeting new people and get along with children and adults alike. Playful Because Miniature Goldendoodles are part Mini Poodle, they are incredibly playful and intelligent! Afterall, both their parent dog breeds continuously make the list for the smartest dogs in the world. Their intelligence makes training a Mini Goldendoodle easy, but it can also make them mischievous at times, so be prepared for your Mini Goldendoodle to outsmart you! Loyal Both parent dog breeds are warm towards people and crave love and attention from their pack. They are loyal and love to stay close to their humans. Energetic Mini Goldendoodles have a moderate energy level. Most require about 60 minutes of exercise per day, but the actual amount will depend on your dog. F1b Mini Goldendoodles are more suited for those with severe allergies. Appearance Size Mini Goldendoodles are anywhere from 15 to 35 pounds and are 13 to 30 inches tall. However, the size of the Mini Goldendoodle depends on the size of the Poodle that is being used for breeding the hybrid dog. These numbers can differ slightly depending on the height and weight of both the Mini Poodle and Golden Retriever parents. If you want a slightly bigger dog, you should consider a Standard Goldendoodle, and if you want one even smaller, look to the Teacup Goldendoodle. Coats Mini Goldendoodle puppies tend to have fluffy coats that change as they age. The coat of an adult Miniature Goldendoodle can vary. It can be similar to the Poodles and be curly , or it can be like a Golden Retriever and be straight. Their coat can also fall somewhere in the middle and be somewhat wavy! We advise you to comb through the coat at least once a day. Colors Miniature Goldendoodles also come in a range of different colors. Golden Retrievers can be a dark golden color also known as red , yellow-golden, or a light cream. A Miniature Poodle can be red, black, tan, cream, apricot, red, or brown. The most popular colors for Miniature Goldendoodles are cream or golden, however, you can have black, white, grey, red, or even mixed colors! Grooming needs Miniature Goldendoodles require lots of grooming, both at home and with a professional. Grooming a Doodle requires daily brushing, combing, and trips to the groomers to prevent painful mats and tangles. The good thing is, there are plenty of Goldendoodle haircuts you can browse for inspiration each time you go to the groomer! This includes: Cancer: Golden Retrievers have one of the highest rates of cancer of all dog breeds. Dental Disease: Miniature Poodles are more likely than other dog breeds to have teeth-related issues. It can cause weight gain, fatigue, and other symptoms. Ear infections: Dog breeds with floppy ears are more prone to ear infections. Regular ear cleanings will help prevent infections. You can keep your Mini Goldendoodle healthy by going to the vet frequently and feeding them high-quality food. The price depends on where you live, the pedigree of the parents, and other factors. Where to find Mini Goldendoodle puppies Reputable breeders The most obvious place to find Mini Goldendoodle Puppies is from a reputable breeder. Be very wary of people selling puppies through online marketplaces and on social media. Search through our list of Doodle rescues here to see what dogs are up for adoption in your area. While you may not be able to find a Mini Goldendoodle puppy at a rescue, you can likely find other Poodle mixes who are waiting to find forever homes. We adopted our Labradoodle after he became available for adoption at the agency we foster with! You can also contact breeders in your area to see if they have a Miniature Goldendoodle up for adoption. We have put together a directory of Goldendoodle breeders , which you can look through to find one near you. If you want a lazy dog, the Mini Goldendoodle is not the right pup for you. Summary Miniature Goldendoodles are perfect for people who want the personality of a Golden Retreiver and the intelligence of a Poodle mixed up in one fantastic dog. Do you have a Mini Goldendoodle? Drop a comment and tell us what yours is like! Mini Goldendoodles can be quiet dogs with the right training and socialization, making them great for apartment living and attached dwellings. Are Mini Goldendoodles good apartment dogs? Mini Goldendoodles make good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise. Do Mini Goldendoodles like to cuddle? Mini Goldendoodles need lots of playtime and exercise. Do Mini Goldendoodles get along well with children? Mini Goldendoodles are fantastic with children. Just be sure to keep a close eye on your children when they play with any animals and be sure to educate young children on the proper way to interact with animals. Are Mini Goldendoodles good dogs? Mini Goldendoodles are great dogs when they get proper socialization, training, and exercise. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a commission from qualifying purchase. The cost is not inflated to account for the commission earned. Veterinary Disclaimer: travellingwithadog. Please consult your vet for any questions you have regarding your pets health. She has years of experience fostering dogs and has helped find homes for a variety of different breeds, both large and small! Learn more about her here. Or wanting to learn more about your mini Goldendoodle? Look no further than these 21 important facts about mini Goldendoodles. This breed produces the cutest and kindest puppies that are perfect for families and first time dog owners. Their goofy personalities and petite size are what make the mini Goldendoodle the most loved breed right now! Fox Creek Farm Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles is the original creator of the mini Goldendoodle, the information below has been gathered from reputable breeding since .The Mini Goldendoodle The F1 mini Goldendoodle is a mixed breed produced by crossing a miniature Poodle with a Golden Retriever the F1 standard Goldendoodle is the first to be bred and is a cross product of a standard Poodle and Golden Retriever. These miniature Goldendoodles can grow to approximately lbs and most have a much reduced amount of shedding. This cross between mixed breeds creates the fun, family-friendly mini Goldendoodle that we love today. Reputable Breeders Miniature Goldendoodle breeders can be accredited by the Goldendoodle Association of North America indicating that the breeder is dedicated to breeding the healthiest dogs. Breeders that possess this certification have extensively tested their respective dog breeds in various areas of health, such as the hips, elbows, heart, patella, and eyes. These breeders are committed to producing dogs with the best temperament and health possible. To do so, every dog must be tested before being bred to prevent the passing of undesirable traits on to the miniature Goldendoodle. GoldenDoodle Breed Standard Knowing the Goldendoodle Breed Standard before searching for a mini Goldendoodle breeder is essential in ensuring that your new puppy is being bred ethically and correctly. Breeders who follow this standard are reputable and can be found on the GANA website. The standard ensures that every Goldendoodle being bred is healthy and suitable for the next generation of mini Goldendoodles. The standard includes several requirements such as general appearance, size, portion, and substance range, temperament, and overall health measures. Ensuring each dog bred meets these criteria is crucial in breeding healthy mini Goldendoodles that are made for being the perfect companion. Generations Understanding the Goldendoodle generations can assist in your search for your mini Goldendoodle. As mentioned before, the miniature Goldendoodle is a miniature Poodle crossed with a Golden Retriever. Multigen mini Goldendoodles are also possible. This is a cross between two mini Goldendoodle dogs. These multigen Goldendoodles are the most likely to be hypo-allergenic as long as they have two furnishing genes regardless of coat type. Knowing the generation information can be incredibly helpful in understanding how your mini Goldendoodle was bred, what type of parents it may have, and how that information can impact your miniature Goldendoodle. Coat Colors Like other dog breeds, the miniature Goldendoodle comes in many colors. The color and genes of the parents play a large role in the color of the mini Goldendoodle puppy. There is a wide variety of colors, shades, and patterns that a mini Goldendoodle can have. Tuxedos are those that have white chests, white paws, and a white blaze on the face. Mini Goldendoodles can also be Merle, Phantom, or even tri colored. These differences create a sense of uniqueness in every puppy that excite mini Goldendoodle lovers. Coat types Mini Goldendoodles come in many different coat types. Every mini Goldendoodle puppy comes with different genetics including coat type and length. These Goldendoodles can have a straight, curly, or wavy coat depending on their KRT71 gene. These characteristics can be predicted by experienced breeders. Another characteristic of mini goldendoodles that may be most noticeable are their furnishings. Furnishings are the facial hair of the face. Some mini Goldendoodles will have furnishings while others have an open face that consists of shorter facial hair. These particular Goldendoodles will have a considerably higher shedding rate. Reputable breeders are now able to produce litters that have predictable coat traits with careful breeding and DNA research. Mini Goldendoodles are smaller than the typical, standard size Goldendoodles. Mini Goldendoodles range from being over 14 inches tall but under 17 inches at the withers. Weights can fluctuate based on parents and breed but height plays a large, determining factor in the adult weight of the mini Goldendoodle. Hence, the estimated weight of the puppy is an educated guess by the breeder. But, with health and DNA testing and experience, final size should minimally stray from initial calculations. Mini Goldendoodles are known for being incredibly smart family dogs. They are teachable, highly intelligent, and known for following commands. In many testimonials, families will brag on their mini Goldendoodles for being quick learners and intuitive. They are willing to learn new behaviors with positive reinforcement and most of their training can be done at home by diligent owners. Family Dogs Mini Goldendoodles have remarkable temperaments. They are the perfect fit for families with children as they are patient and kind dogs. These puppies fit the gold standard for being loving and happy when around people. Their excitement and sweet energy are unmatched to other dog breeds as they are easy to be around and even easier to love. Because they typically weigh under 36 pounds, the need for an exorbitant amount of space is diminished. While they are not made to be exclusively inside for extended periods of time, their smaller size allows them to be comfortable in smaller spaces and suitable for apartment living. Mini Goldendoodles are often satisfied when snuggled up on the couch with their families and playing with toys inside. Activity Mini Goldendoodles are loved for their energetic and happy demeanors but their true activity levels range from dog to dog. No individual dog is the same. Hence, some Goldendoodles bark while others do not. These behaviors can be altered through training and other at-home factors. Furthermore, hyperactivity is not a mini Goldendoodle specific trait. Hyperactivity can be the outcome of several environmental factors such as lack of exercise, too much time in a crate, or stimulation by active children. Because mini Goldendoodles are generally friendly, sociable, and highly intelligent, they can easily undergo the Canine Good Citizen and Therapy Dogs International, Inc. These tests can certify suitable mini Goldendoodles as therapy dogs for family or volunteer needs. Service dog training is more extensive and typically is done by professional trainers. Because of their already sociable and kind nature, mini Goldendoodles are a great fit for these programs. Enhanced Health Mini Goldendoodles are among the dog breeds that are complemented by hybrid vigor. Hybrid vigor is a term coined for describing the enhanced health of a dog that is bred from two different, unrelated breeds. Mini Goldendoodles who are not produced from two related lines exhibit this enhancement as they are bred from two different breeds, the miniature Poodle crossed with the Golden Retriever. Our Goldendoodles are never crossed with related lines within three previous generations so the hybrid vigor is not lost when continuing to produce mini Goldendoodles. Additionally, extensive health testing and certification can ensure that this increased health is not lost. Staying Healthy As with all dog breeds, mini Goldendoodles can also have health issues. However, these health problems are not unique to mini Goldendoodles alone. All dog breeds are subject to things like hip dysplasia or eye conditions if not carefully bred. Reputable breeders always test their mini Goldendoodles before breeding for a plethora of things, including hip and elbow dysplasia, heart, and eye issues. The best way to mitigate these health concerns is by aquiring your puppy through a reputable breeder who tests for such health issues and ensures good practices. These breeders should be certified and focus on the Goldendoodle Breed Standard. Whether you take your Goldendoodle to play with other puppies or walk them regularly, consistent exercise is crucial in tiring them out. These activities are a great way for your puppy to expend energy in a way that is suitable and acceptable to your family. Additionally, family walks are a great way to spend time with your mini Goldendoodle in a healthy and fun way. Once fully vaccinated, introducing them to other puppies can be a great socialization tool, too. Crating your mini Goldendoodle Crate training is a process that is crucial to training your mini Goldendoodle. Ensuring that your new puppy is confined to a crate when unsupervised is essential in preventing accidents and teaching them that they can control the urge to eliminate. Creating and maintaining a schedule for your family is crucial for the development and training of a mini Goldendoodle. Sticking to the schedule and ensuring your puppy is socialized is especially important in the first few months of housetraining. To start, crate time should be limited to three hours before taking the puppy out to eliminate and can increase by one hour after every month of training. Non-shedding Mini Goldendoodles are also widely popular for their reduced or lack of shedding. This gene determines whether your mini Goldendoodle will be completely non-shedding or low shedding. Some reputable breeders have succeeded in creating multigenerational mini Goldendoodles that are completely non-shedding. These dogs have two copies of the furnishing genes. It was once thought that the curly coat was responsible for a puppy being non-shedding but with testing and new DNA technology, mini Goldendoodles with all coat types can be non-shedding. Having a dog that is non-shedding is favorable to families with allergies to pets and prevents copious amounts of dog hair in your home. Grooming Because of their coat type, grooming a miniature Goldendoodle is essential to its appearance and cleanliness. Mini Goldendoodles require brushing every day with a slick brush and metal comb to prevent matting of their gorgeous coats. Sticking to a schedule of brushing is essential in training your puppy that grooming is a daily routine so that it becomes easier as they grow older. Additionally, their nails should be clipped monthly; groomers typically include clipping nails as part of their services. You may bathe your mini Goldendoodle as often as needed but you must use a tearless shampoo to prevent drying out their coats. This should be accompanied by teeth brushing. Overall, mini Goldendoodles require some attention and upkeep but are no more difficult to groom than other long coated dogs! Puppy Culture is a popular program that sets the gold standard in raising properly exposed and socialized litters. Through this program, topics like early socialization, anti-aggression protocols, handling fear periods, problem prevention and more are covered. There are several stages to puppy culture which signal social progression and development in new puppies. First Steps to getting your mini Goldendoodle A quality mini Goldendoodle is bred from parents who have been thoroughly tested for healthy genes via DNA and certified free and clear of issues of the heart, eyes, hips, elbows, and patellas. Thus, mini Goldendoodles may be pricier than other breeds. However, this addition to your family is worthwhile as costly health issues down the road not only can exceed the purchase price, the avoidable suffering of the mini Goldendoodle has no price tag. Additionally, regardless of the experience of breeders, the temperament, size, and gender of each puppy cannot be determined before birth. Applications allow breeders to understand the desired traits needed by each individual family so that puppies can be matched appropriately ensuring compatibility. Uniqueness All mini Goldendoodles are wonderfully unique in their own ways. As mentioned, these puppies come in a wide variety of colors, coats, and personalities. But, the true mark of a mini Goldendoodle stays the same; they are all incredibly loving and make the perfect family member. Your mini Goldendoodle is bred specifically for some of the greatest qualities that people look for in puppies. They are kind, smart, eager to please, and are the most cuddly, little teddy bears. Adding a mini Goldendoodle to any family is one of the most wonderful decisions that can be made. Mini Goldendoodles are a fairly new breed and the perfect addition to any family. Their gentleness, friendliness, and cuddly, teddy bear look make them the best dogs for people in all walks of life. This breed mix is all the rage with the perfect characteristic and lovable traits. Not only will you love your mini Goldendoodle, they will love you unconditionally, too. Large capacity makes cleaning the dog kennel, yard, dog run, or even chicken coops a breeze. No more breaking your back to bend down and scoop up dog poop with your hand and dog poop bag. Rake and then lift the pan to contain waste. Less messy than a broom and dustpan set, perfect for your dog housebreaking supplies. Fresh Scent along with activated baking soda help to neutralize foul odors while you work. The handle ties prevent touching the waste and keeps stink in while you are taking the dog poop bag out. Refill bags are available for purchase separately. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Great for dogs who have mastered level 1 puzzles. Swivel to hide treats under the flippers or place them in the blocks through the top opening for an added challenge! Your pup will need to take sequential steps to release the final rewards! Train your pup not to chew on the toy by removing it after the treats have been eaten. Non-removable parts make it a safe and easy to clean choice. Easy to clean with warm water and soap between uses. Do not leave toys with unsupervised pets. Remove and replace toy if damaged. Check Price We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Healthy play is important for dogs' physical and mental development, emotions and behavior. By encouraging healthy play and satisfying instinctual needs, this treat dispensing puzzle toy helps solve chewing, separation anxiety, teething, boredom, weight management, crate training, digging and barking Fetch Toy: The KONG Classic's unpredictable bounce makes for exciting games of fetch and other interactive play with your pet. Dishwasher safe for easy clean up. Globally Sourced Materials We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. These dog shoes expands with a wide split seam opening and two adjustable and reflective straps to ensure a tight fit, also make your dog safe at night. RUGGED: Tough anti-slip sole of dog boots provides stability and traction, protection from sharp thorns and hot pavement. QUALITY: The dog boots have a rugged sole and high quality fabrics that are then sewn together to ensure they are ready for your adventure. As mentioned above, mini goldendoodles will weigh somewhere around pounds and an average height of a mini goldendoodle will be anywhere from inches. Are mini goldendoodles good dogs? Mini goldendoodles make great family dogs. How much does a mini goldendoodle cost? Do mini goldendoodles bark a lot? In our experience, yes! Mini goldendoodles can get very excited very easy and can be very loud. Keep this in mind if you live very close to your neighbors or have people in your family who hate the sound of barking dogs! Is a mini goldendoodle a purebred? No, a mini goldendoodle is not a purebred. Overall Mini Goldendoodle Recommendation I would definitely recommend a mini goldendoodle as a pet. Mini goldendoodles are one of the most popular breeds of dogs for good reason. A golden retriever poodle mix is a hybrid dog that will a gentle nature that will make a great family pet for any family! Related Posts:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. A mix between the ever-popular golden retriever and the charming miniature poodle, the mini Goldendoodle, is a new and increasingly popular designer dog on the block. If you are looking for an affectionate, intelligent, and low-shedding canine companion that can double as a cuddle buddy, this cute hybrid is a superb choice! With their teddy-bear faces and soft, fluffy curls, miniature Goldendoodles are easy on the eye and also have great temperaments. Moderately active and spunky, these mini doodle dogs are also outdoing and adoring pooches that are always in the mood for snuggles. Highly adaptable, easy to train, and outgoing, they make great pets to people of all ages and are a particularly fantastic choice for timid, first-time owners. Keep on reading to find out if this adorable hybrid is the right pup for you! Miniature Goldendoodle Overview Size — 13 to 20 inches tall, weighs from 15 to 35 pounds Coat — Medium-long wavy or curly thick coat; color varies Shedding — Non to low shedding Lifespan — 12 to 16 years Trainable — Highly trainable, but can become destructive if not mentally stimulated Activity — Moderately active; needs between 30 and 45 minutes of activity every day Best For — Singles, couples, seniors, families with children, first time owners, homes with fenced outdoor space What Is A Mini Goldendoodle? Miniature Goldendoodles are a relatively new designer breed developed by crossing a purebred golden retriever with a purebred miniature or toy poodle. To avoid birthing complications, breeders exclusively breed female golden retrievers with male miniature poodles. Mini Goldendoodle Appearance The Goldendoodle is a mixed-breed dog and not a purebred. Pups that take after their golden retriever parents are more robust and thicker-bodied, while pooches that mainly take after the poodle are more delicately built. Most miniature Goldendoodles weigh anywhere between 15 and 35 pounds and are typically around 13 to 20 inches tall at the withers. Color The most recognized and highly sought-after miniature Goldendoodles are those with the golden blond coat of the golden retriever. Coat The coat of the mini Goldendoodle is typically medium-length and should be wavy or curly. Miniature Goldendoodle Character And Temperament Mini Goldendoodles tend to inherit the best personality traits from both their parent breeds, which is one of the reasons why they are so popular. They are extremely people-oriented dogs that need affection, attention, and interaction with their owners to stay happy and thrive. People pleasers at heart, miniature Goldendoodles form strong bonds with their families and will find creative ways to earn an extra pat on the head or a full belly rub session. Thanks to their sociable nature and their need to have company, these cute pooches are best suited for multi-pet households and will enjoy having other furry companions. As long as they are properly socialized from a young age, mini Goldendoodles get along nicely with cats as well as dogs. Bred specifically for its small size and companionship, the mini doodle makes a devoted, biddable, clever, fun, and spunky pet for people of all ages. They like to be involved in all family activities and will always find ways to be the center of attention. If you decide to welcome this handsome crossbreed into your home, know that your personal space will be invaded! If you leave your Goldendoodle home alone for hours on end, your cute pup will turn into a menace that will resort to destructive chewing and excessive barking to feel better. These dogs crave affection, attention, and company above all else. Miniature Goldendoodles are incredibly playful dogs that are always up for a game of fetch, chase, or hide and seek. As an offspring of two water dog breeds, this designer hybrid likes water and will have a lot of fun in a pool or a lake. Thanks to their excitable nature, you can expect a good dose of enthusiasm during every play session. Caring For Mini Goldendoodles Mini Goldendoodles, like all other dogs, require proper care to fulfill their needs. To keep your mini happy and healthy, pay attention to the following factors in particular. Exercise As mentioned previously, mini Goldendoodles are moderately active dogs. Most need at least around 30 to 45 minutes of moderate activity every day to stay healthy and in good shape. However, they do well in agility and are always up for a walk and play session in the park. Intellectual Stimulation Like their parent breeds, miniature Goldengoodles are highly intelligent dogs. When left to their own devices without stimulating toys, these pups easily become bored and frustrated. When bored, your angelic-looking pooch may chew your favorite pair of leather shoes. To keep your shoe collection intact and to prevent the destruction of your home, keep your dog mentally stimulated with puzzle toys and other interactive dog toys designed to keep your Goldendoodle sharp and stimulated. Companionship Bred to be companion dogs, mini Goldendoodles adore people and are devoted to the entire family. Without interaction and companionship, they tend to develop separation anxiety, which is often accompanied by a host of other behavioral problems. If you live alone and work a lot, consider hiring a pet sitter or taking your pooch to doggy daycare while you are at work. Grooming Needs Being a poodle mix, the miniature Goldendoodle has higher grooming needs than most other dogs. Due to their fast-growing fur, most owners opt to take their miniature Goldendoodles to a professional groomer once every two to three months. Diet The ideal diet for miniature Goldendoodles is one formulated for small breeds with moderate to high energy. Common Health Problems Although they are generally considered healthy dogs, mini Goldendoodles tend to develop many of the same health problems that affect poodles and golden retrievers. Commonly seen health problems in this mix are: Hip Dysplasia: Caused by the malformation of the hip joint, hip dysplasia is a painful condition that causes mobility issues, lameness, and arthritis. Patellar Luxation: The dislocated knee is a common issue seen in both miniature and toy poodles. Progressive Retinal Atrophy: This is a group of degenerative diseases that affect photoreceptor cells in the eye, resulting in blindness. Dogs with this condition experience excessive bleeding even from minor wounds and cuts. Lifespan Mini Goldendoodles have an average lifespan of 12 to 16 years. How To Train Your Mini Goldendoodle As an offspring of the biddable golden retriever and highly intelligent miniature poodle, the mini Goldendoodle is a highly trainable dog. Thanks to their quick wits and eagerness to please, they can learn new commands after only a few repetitions. Like all other dogs, mini Goldendoodles respond best to positive reinforcement training, so use treats and a lot of praise to train your puppy to become a well-mannered dog. Despite being naturally friendly and trusting, your miniature Goldendoodle will benefit from early socialization. Expose your pup to different people, sounds, smells, and situations from a young age to build their confidence. This designer hybrid makes an amazing pet and companion to first-time owners, people of all ages, and families with children. If you have enough time to interact and play with your dog, the miniature Goldendoodle will adapt to any type of home with or without outdoor space. If you work from home or are looking for a doting canine companion, the mini Goldendoodle may be the right choice for you. Buying A Mini Goldendoodle Puppy Doodle breeds are extremely popular, but no breed is so highly sought after as the Goldendoodle, both the standard and the mini varieties. If you want a standard miniature Goldendoodle, look for first generation or F1 mini Goldendoodles. These puppies have a poodle father and a golden retriever mother and may vary in appearance greatly. Some breeders breed two miniature Goldendoodles together, and their puppies are known as F2 or second generation Goldendoodles. These pups have a similar appearance and are a bit more expensive than F1 puppies. The exact price of a mini Goldendoodle depends on many factors, including the breeder, location, supply and demand, quality, and pedigree of the parent breeds. Highly intelligent, easy to train, affectionate, spunky, and agile, poodles make great companion dogs. They are often mixed with other breeds due to their great temperament and low shedding hypoallergenic coat. Golden Retriever: Breed History And Overview Medium to large in size, the golden retriever originated in Scotland as a gun dog bred to gently retrieve shot waterfowl without damaging the birds. While they are still used for hunting, goldens are nowadays more commonly kept as pets due to their affectionate, intelligent, and loyal natures. Outgoing, trusting, eager to please, and people-loving golden retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds, and they can often be seen as service or therapy dogs assisting people with disabilities. Mini Goldendoodles make superb family pets to people of all ages and novice owners. They are affectionate, sweet, playful, spunky, doting, and smart dogs that get along with everyone, including other dogs and cats. Wrapping Up: The Goldendoodle A fairly new designer hybrid that has quickly caught the attention of dog lovers around the world, the miniature Goldendoodle makes a fantastic family pet. If you are thinking of welcoming this cute mix into your home, make sure you are able to: Interact with your dog daily and meet their high social needs Commit to regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles from forming Provide companionship to your dog in form of doggy daycare or a pet sitter if you have long working hours Do you have a miniature Goldendoodle? If so, what is your doggie like? Share your experience owning this mix with us and our readers in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Just like Goldendoodles, they are a cross of a Golden Retriever and Poodle. Many breeders only recently started to breed smaller and smaller Goldendoodles — this breed is very new, albeit already very sought-after. An especially popular variation is the F1b Mini Goldendoodle. Mini Goldendoodles have become very popular due to their low-shedding coat, their outgoing temperament, social intelligence and adorable looks. Miniature Poodles Poodles were originally bred as water dogs in Germany. When we hear the term Poodle we tend to think of the large Standard Poodle that we often see at dogs shows. The breed however has two smaller versions as well: The Miniature and the Toy Poodle. These are much smaller than the Standard Poodle who can stand as tall as 24 inches at the shoulder. Miniature Poodles are only around 12 inches tall and weight lbs. Toy Poodles are even smaller at only around 10 inches tall. They can be quite hyper at times and absolutely need a daily outlet for all their energy. Golden Retrievers Golden Retrievers are the classic family dog nowadays. However, just like the Poodle these water dogs were originally bred to retrieve water fowl for hunters. They have a strong drive to please their owners and love to be active. Because their retrieving instinct is very strong, Golden Retrievers are known to be very mouthy dogs long past their puppy years and can be destructive on furniture, shoes and even walls. They require daily exercise and training. They are exuberant and love to be around people and other dogs. Golden Retrievers are often underestimated in the amount of mental and physical exercise they need. Mini Goldendoodles are between 13 and 20 inches tall, weighing in at lbs. Yes — this is quite a range! How big exactly your Mini Goldendoodle will be depends a lot on the size of both parents as well as just luck in the genetic lottery. They can have small white markings on their chest. Their floppy ears give their face a teddybear look. Temperament of the Mini Goldendoodle Miniature Goldendoodles are extremely outgoing and social. They are no dogs for introverts! Every owner can attest to their love of all people and dogs on the planet. Mini Goldendoodles are very energetic and active dogs. They are highly intelligent and require mental and physical exercise every day. As all dogs with working parents, they can and will become destructive if they are not challenged enough. It is crucial that you offer your Mini Goldendoodle plenty of chew and enrichment toys. Due to their high energy, Mini Goldendoodles can be nervy and have short attention spans. They need very positive and consistent training. If you are not patient or give up quickly, this is not the right breed for you. Mini Goldendoodles tend to get along very well with any other dog breed and often also with cat. However, in order to keep everyone safe you always want to supervise them around smaller animals. Do Mini Goldendoodles bark a lot? Mini Goldendoodles can be very loud dogs. They bark when they are happy, when they are excited which they are a lot of the time! While dogs can be trained to have impulse control and to bark a bit less, it is impossible to get a verbal dog to completely stop barking. If you are looking for a dog that is guaranteed to be quiet, then do not choose a Mini Goldendoodle. These goofy fluffballs can and will be loud! Do Mini Goldendoodles like to cuddle? Yes, Mini Goldendoodles love to cuddle! No matter if you get a 15 lbs. They love to be petted, brushed and cuddled. Their soft coat makes snuggling extra fun! Mini Goldendoodles enjoy the company of all people, especially kids. They will thrive when they can be in the middle of a group of children. Many Mini Goldendoodles go on to become therapy dogs because of their love for people and snuggles. Most dogs will need some exercise before they are happy to settle down however — do not expect your pup to be happy with a whole weekend of just Netflix and chill! He will need physical and mental enrichment in order to really enjoy the snuggly downtime as well. While they do not shed as much as double-coated dogs, their curly coat can easily mat if not maintained properly. You should brush your Mini at least once or twice a week. The coat of many Doodles will become very long unless it is clipped. Most owners opt for an easy-to-care-for cut for their dogs. Your local groomer can recommend the best look for your dog that will be adorable and easy to maintain. Depending on how much your Doodle plays outside, he will also need regular baths. If you do not bathe your Mini when he is muddy, the dirt and locks will become an unmanageable mess. Do Mini Goldendoodles shed? They promise of non-shedding qualities is what entices many owners to get any kind of Doodle breed. It needs to be noted that while it is likely that your Miniature Goldendoodle will not shed much, there is no guarantee. If you or a member of your family has a dog allergy, you need to spend time around a Goldendoodle before committing to buying a puppy. If you want a Mini Goldendoodle in order to minimize hair around your house, then you are in luck: They do indeed shed much less than double coated dog breeds such as the King Shepherd or Australian Shepherd. Shedding less than most other dogs however does not mean that the Mini Goldendoodle does not require any grooming! In fact, their curly hair will need attention and care: Do Mini Goldendoodles smell? They can be nearly scent-free and will not offend even sensitive noses. If you do not brush your dog and bathe him, dirt particles and old skin cells will get caught in his coat and start to stink. This however is the case with any dog breed — you need to devote time to grooming your dog. Think of it like human hair — if brushed and washed regularly, it has no scent. If one was to however not wash or brush their hair for months, the smell would certainly be offensive! Like any dog, your Mini Goldendoodle will probably smell a bit if he has gotten wet, such as during a rainy day walk or after swimming. If you dry him properly and brush him out however, he will be good to go and smelling nicely. Are Mini Goldendoodles good dogs? Mini Goldendoodles can be amazing companions if their needs are met. An owner who has time to devote to training and exercising their Mini Goldendoodle every day will have a wonderful and loyal by his side. Their high intelligence, outgoing nature and social skills makes them fantastic pets. If a Mini Goldendoodle however ends up with a family that cannot meet his needs, he is likely to develop behavioral issues. Your Mini Goldendoodle might start to be destructive, bark incessantly or show reactive behaviors. If not properly socialized, Mini Goldendoodles also can become too boisterous around other dogs and start escalations. It is crucial that you take a lot of time to teach appropriate public and play skills to your dog. What health problems do Mini Goldendoodles have? As in any dog breed, unfortunately there are a number of health conditions that tend to pop up in Mini Goldendoodles. Luckily, there are a number of tests available with which breeders can check if the parents of a litter are likely to pass conditions onto their offspring. Mini Goldendoodles show health issues that occur in both parent dogs, the Golden Retriever and the Miniature or Toy Poodle. Most common are: Patellar Luxation. Should a puppy be microchipped before being sold? Like the Golden Retriever, the standard poodle was originally bred as a water retriever as well and is highly trainable and athletic. Bred specifically for its small size and companionship rather than athletic field work, the Miniature Poodle tends to be more demanding of attention and is known for their spunky, affectionate personalities and delightful sense of wit. Breeding the loving, biddable Golden Retriever with the clever, devoted miniature poodle is a winning combination for many families! Mini goldendoodles tend to be delightfully smart, fun, and spunky! Owners often describe their Mini Goldendoodles as almost humanlike in their wit and quirks! They are typically very devoted to their owners which can be both a pro and a con depending on your concept of personal space. This is a dog that will absolutely find a way to be in the limelight. He will likely follow you around to all rooms of the house. The downside is that if your miniature goldendoodle is not getting his attention needs met, he may become a bit demanding—seeking your attention with negative behaviors such as barking. Mini Goldendoodle Personality for Trainability? Mini goldendoodles are incredibly trainable — well above average! As mentioned previously, Golden Retrievers are the most common breed in the service dog industry so they are world-renown for their obedience and trainability. The miniature poodle is also known for being eager to please. They are smart sometimes too smart! Likewise, the mini goldendoodle always seems to know what their owners are thinking and feeling. However, he may have his own opinion when it comes to pure obedience. While miniature goldendoodles may have a little attitude and spunk when it comes to their overall approach to life, we would still consider them well above average when it comes to trainability. For the most part they are good natured, eager to please, and catch on extremely fast to new commands! Energy Levels of Mini Goldendoodles When it comes to various dog temperaments, oftentimes smarts and trainability is coupled with high energy. The mini goldendoodle is no exception—we would rank their energy level as medium-high, or just slightly above average. While their short legs may not have the stamina for extended periods of exercise, mini goldendoodles tend to love to play hard and fast in short bursts! They often excel at agility or fetch related activities. Despite being small, this is a dog breed that still needs exercise and mental stimulation on a daily basis. They tend to have an excitable nature so you can expect some exuberance when it comes to playing and physical activities! Are Mini Goldendoodles Family Friendly? Overall, the mini goldendoodle is above average when it comes to being able to get along with various members of the family although may not be the best choice for families with particularly young children. Mini goldendoodles tend to be friendly and playful. They tend to get along well with other dogs particularly if paired with another similar energy level. The compact size of the miniature goldendoodle can make them more manageable for some families. They are easy to control a leash and it can be helpful for owners to be able to easily pick up their pup when it comes to bath time, getting in and out of the car, etc. On the downside, the smaller the Mini Goldendoodle, the less likely they are able to keep up with the family on a walk or hike. They may tire easily on longer walks. They usually do well with elementary aged or older children as they do enjoy companionship of multiple family members! For the most part, the mini goldendoodle is a friendly, sociable breed who fits in well with many types of families. Adaptability and overall upkeep? We would score the miniature goldendoodle as average when it comes to adaptability. They adapt well to apartment living. Their small size means they can easily fit in smaller spaces. They need lots of play to release their energy, but a game of a fetch in a small yard will do the trick. They do not need long walks or strenuous exercise. They are above average when it comes to heat tolerance and average when it comes to cold tolerance. Keep in mind if you live in a snowy area, that you will have to comb the fur on their legs and feet to avoid the clumping of snow in these areas and resultant matted fur. The goldendoodle can really adapt to a variety of living situations as their main aim in life is just to be with their owners! This is the area that they are not adaptable in—you must be able to spend time with your mini goldendoodle. This is not a dog that can be left alone in the backyard all day. However, keep in mind, this breed does require regular grooming and brushing to avoid long, matted hair. In conclusion if you are looking for a devoted companion who would never turn down a snuggle and is more than willing to accompany you wherever you go, then the mini goldendoodle may be the perfect breed for you! Their spunky, clever, and affectionate temperaments have charmed many families and made them one of the most popular breeds today. Still, it is important to be prepared to give this dog a lot of love, attention, and play time to ensure a happy partnership between you and your mini goldendoodle!

German Shepherds will usually take to being a guard dog naturally. It's important to train them to be obedient. Learn how here. Many dogs are natural watch dogs; their bark is sufficient to alert their owner to something unusual, and the alarm they set up is a deterrent. In addition, dogs who will fight if their owner is genuinely attacked do not have to be made aggressive to do so. Training a dog specifically to be a guard dog is hazardous and potentially creates a liability for you. Misguided attempts to make a dog aggressive through abuse will only backfire because the dog will not be loyal to someone who treats them harshly, and if the dog wrongly bites someone you will be at fault. Never train dogs who are basically fearful or out of control. Such dogs may not respond appropriately in non-threatening situations. A German shepherd dog should not be selected to receive training as a guard dog unless the dog is basically friendly, stable and clear-headed, and has been well-socialized. Dogs should acquire a clear understanding of what is normal and what is not, so that they are not fearful and they know when there is a genuine threat. To socialize puppies, take them places with you, and allow them to meet and interact with as many other people and animals as possible, always taking care to keep your puppy safe from negative experiences. Dogs of any breed are prone to be shy and fearful in strange or new environments if they haven't been well socialized, and this can create a dog who bites from fear or who runs when confronted with anything unusual. STEP 2 Enroll your German shepherd dog puppy in an obedience class as soon as possible, and train your dog thoroughly in basic obedience. It is essential that your German shepherd dog is obedient at all times, but if you want to undertake guard dog training, the need for control becomes imperative. Even though the purpose behind the training is serious, dogs should enjoy obedience work and look on it as fun. Positive reinforcement, the practice of rewarding dogs when they perform correctly rather than punishing them for mistakes, serves multiple purposes by teaching dogs obedience, bonding them with their owners and letting them have fun. It also fulfills their need to work. Begin by teaching your dog to "Speak" on command, and give a treat and much praise for barking. This training eventually gives you control over the dog's bark. Have your dog sit while barking. German shepherd dogs are intelligent and will normally learn quickly. You can develop this trait by making a show of going to see why the dog is barking, offering praise, then giving the "Quiet" or "Enough" command. React positively when your German shepherd dog alerts you to unfamiliar people or objects at home, but do not allow this behavior to develop away from home. Your dog should be unconcerned about neutral or friendly strangers you meet when you are out walking. When your German shepherd dog barks, the intruder should look at the dog and then flee while you hold and praise your dog. Do not allow your pet to chase the fleeing stranger. Praise your dog highly for letting you know someone was in your territory, and stop the barking as soon as the person flees. This strengthens the dog's confidence. STEP 6 Walk your German shepherd dog on a leash around the perimeter of your property regularly to identify your territorial boundaries. Do not allow your dog to bark at people who are outside your property. Do not allow your dog to chase people under any circumstances. These dogs are tested for sound temperament and must learn to perform at a high level in tracking and obedience as well as protection work. Find a reputable club that is a member of a national or international schutzhund organization. Before joining, spend some time learning about their organization, talking to members, and watching training sessions to determine whether you have the commitment needed to seriously engage in this demanding dog sport. The most important aspect of guard dog training is control, which asserts your role as leader and normally comes from time you spend with your dog in enjoyable activities, including obedience training. A dog who is out of control and tries to be dominant can cause serious injuries and is far more of a liability than an asset. Never try to train your dog to bite or attack people. Doing so may be illegal in some states, and you place yourself at risk because you will be liable for injuries that result from an attack. These are just a few of the reasons why German shepherds are the second-most-popular pet dog in America, according to the American Kennel Club. However, to become as skilled as these working pups are, proper German shepherd training is essential. But what exactly does that mean? This, however, is not necessarily the case. Although a guard dog is trained to watch for danger and alert their owners, they are not necessarily trained as an attack dog — they may be only a watchdog. Either way, the goal of the guard dog is to keep their family and property safe, either by barking or by physical action. This article will focus on training your German shepherd to guard by barking, not attacking. Training any dog to do physical protection work should be managed by professionals who have firsthand experience handling and training protection dogs. Effective training, whether it be guarding or basic obedience, will include some kind of reward for your pup, whether it be a treat, toy, or some love. Master obedience training and socialization Before you can get to the nitty-gritty of guarding, you and your dog need to master the basics of obedience. A group class will help your dog practice obedience while gaining experience around other people and pets. If your German shepherd is meant to guard a person, she should first establish a bond with that person — she may become naturally protective. This will definitely take some time and practice, but consistency is key when getting your buddy to understand when to bark and when not to. At this step, adding a few more commands to your repertoire may be helpful for both of you. Practice and reward desired behaviors Perhaps the most important step of the process is practicing and rewarding the guarding behaviors you want to see. Instead, many pup parents stage a trespassing situation in which they have a stranger approach their home, self, or dog — and then reward them, of course! Training your German shepherd to be a guard dog is time-consuming and requires some hard work, but its benefits last for life. Could you ask for more in a loving, protective companion? Editors' Recommendations.

Whether you want a good family pet or an AKC show dog, this breed is the perfect choice. Our Labrador puppies in Michigan come in all three recognized colors — chocolate, black and yellow. We breed the classic English Labrador, known for its stocky appearance and otter tail, and all our adult dogs are AKC pure English lines. Because of this, many of our Labrador puppies for sale in Michigan have excelled in rally, obedience, conformation and agility. This is all on top of being loving family companions. Our available puppies are great choices for multiple needs and tasks. To learn more about the breed and breed standards of our Lap puppies, visit this helpful American Kennel Club resource. Interested in purchasing one of our Labrador retriever puppies for sale in Michigan? Check out the individual page for a specific litter. You can also contact us to be put on the deposit list for picks, and to also hold a puppy. Our puppy Price is for limited registration. Deposits are non-refundable. Full AKC Registration breeding and show rights contact us for an additional fee. Finding the right Labrador Retriever puppy can be mind boggling We here at Rozey K9 Farm provide a convenient and efficient means of selecting and purchasing the perfect Labrador Retriever puppy or Labrador Retriever puppies from your home through videos and pictures or on a visit to our farm. Take advantage of browsing our puppies or adult dogs. We are known as reputable Labrador Retriever dog breeders. Take a look at our individual Labrador Retriever puppy for sale listings with photos and detailed descriptions. We also offer shipping for our Labrador Retriever puppies for sale. As one of the trustworthy Michigan Labrador Retriever dog breeders with puppies for sale we offer a health guarantee. With several Labrador Retriever puppies for sale and numerous Labrador Retriever dog breeders, you're sure to find the perfect Labrador Retriever puppy with us. We are located close to Grand Rapids, MI. You can have your new family home soon. Check out the different Labrador litters and give us a call at to get started. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. We are trusted and experienced Lab breeders in Michigan, priding ourselves in raising Labrador puppies that make wonderful companions for your family. Fabulous puppies are produced from our quality lineage. Most importantly we breed to better the quality of the English Labrador to preserve fabulous bloodlines. As a result of this they all have wonderful, gentle and friendly personalities. Therefore according to AKC standards our parents also meet and have great build and conformation. Because of these outstanding qualities, our Labradors excel in AKC performance and many also hold therapy titles. Consequently, we are always working above and beyond to bring out the best in all of our Labrador Retrievers. We pride ourselves in raising Labrador puppies that make wonderful companions for your family. Each puppy leaves here ready for a lifetime of love, loyality and companionship with their new families. Our thrill especially comes from seeing our puppies bring joy and happiness to their new homes. Our daily dedication of hard work and love makes happy puppies and families. Moreover, your new puppy is hand-raised, above all, with much love, personal care and attention. We raise our puppies with constant positive socialization and gentle handling from birth. Because of this quality care, one of Rozey's Labrador Retriever puppies will be the perfect match for your family. Our lab puppies for sale, are also known to be intelligent, easy to train and excel in their obedience classes. We especially make sure that your new puppy will exceed all of your expectations. You will, truly, not go wrong with one of our puppies. Call us today for your new furry family member. Branch Family This is Lola.She is the best. She enjoys boating on Lake Michigan summer weekends and retrieves like a super star. She can catch a basketball midair!! She is such a sweetheart and so smart. Thanks so much for breeding such quality pups!!! We can't get over how calm he is and he just likes to lie by our feet and follow us around. I must say you are doing a great job with their disposition. We have had so many compliments on him. Jerry and Teresa P. Thought I'd send you a picture of Mackinaw a one year old. We couldn't ask for a more sweet, loveable and loyal pet. He has quite the personality. We absolutely love our gentle giant. Wish we could have more! Ashley Just wanted to send you an update saying how much we adore Eva. She has really warmed up and loves to run around chasing anything! She loves walks and knows sit and lay down already. Thank you so much for bringing this wonderful pile of chocolate into our lives! We are so happy! Mike I just wanted to let you know that I took Gracie for her first vet appointment. The doctor said that she is very healthy. Also I received a lot of compliments on not only how good she looked but how well behaved and her temperament. One of the technician asked for your website. She said that she has been looking and thought Gracie was the best looking puppy she has seen. I believe she will be getting a hold of you. Here, our dogs enjoy the fresh country air and open spaces with us. Contact us today, for more information on our lab puppies for sale in michigan and on how to add your wonderful puppy to your home. Call us at .We will surely be able to fulfill your request for the perfect puppy. All Rights Reserved. Phone: .We are the proud parents of the smartest, sweetest, most laid back lab, Gracie. Steve Karp and family are incredible to work with and truly care for their puppies and the families who adopt from them. If I could give stars, I would! If you're searching for a lab, look no further. Kara Bunbury We cannot say enough great things about M. Steve is very hands on throughout the entire process- sending weekly updates until the pups come home and remaining in contact thereafter. Everywhere we go people ask what breeder he came from. We got many very cute updates on our soon to be little puppy. We feel honored to be apart of the Michigan Elite Labrador family! Jill Price We were looking for a pure bred lab but were very skeptical about many breeders until we found Michigan Elite Labs. We knew after our first contact with them we found the breeder we were looking for. Stan is 10 months old and we love him to pieces. If you are looking for a pure bred lab you have found the perfect breeder. We would never think of going anywhere but Michigan Elite to get a Lab. Steve is always just a phone call away if you have any questions. Steve is very knowledgeable about his Labrador Retrievers. If you want an amazing Labrador puppy check out Michigan Elite Labradors you will be glad you did! From the first contact with Steve, you are reassured with their dedication to the breed and the MEL family that you become a part of. It's said that one of the best signs of a "good product" is repeat customers. We're proud to be an example of that, with 2 MEL dogs in our home. Temperament, physical health and the characteristics of MEL dogs are perfection. The added benefit of the MEL owners group is also a great perk. We've made amazing friends through the group, which is reinforced each year at the annual reunion. I would not hesitate to recommend Michigan Elite Labradors to family and friends! We looked at all of the photos and knew we would get a beautiful pup but didnt expect all of the wonderful traits they would have. We ended up getting 2! They are beyond my wildest dreams of what a pet should be.So intuitive! When ive had issues, steve has been a phone call away with the answers. Best babies around.You wont be sorry! I believe we were part his second litter and his biggest litter with Cocco and Chopper 14 pups. Both of the parents were beautiful and on site when we went to pick out our first "Pink Collar" girl. We picked up our second "Pink Collar" girl in late .They have become best friends from the beginning. They have never fought or growled at each other and play very well together. The Karp's are very caring and knowledgeable about the Labrador breed. Any questions I have ever had Steve has always been there to guide me and teach me. His extended MEL family has been very inspiring and amusing as we all watch the pups grow into beautiful pets. Kris Thompson Michigan Elite Labradors are wonderful. We had a great experience working with the Karp family. Our little black lab has brought us so many blessings! They are the most wonderful family and breeders. They are extremely reputable and involved with every pup. Steve is always available to you. I called so many times. He is conscientious and really cares about where his puppies go. He is beyond gorgeous. As a matter of fact, I can honestly say that I have never seen better looking labs. Elite labs are very intelligent and have excellent temperaments. Jax was potty trained right away. When I got a trainer, He learned everything immediately. She was so impressed with him and shocked how well he did. She trains Leader of the Blinds dogs so it was a huge compliment coming from her. We have people stop us everywhere to ask if he is a show dog. One of them was a breeder. Another huge bonus is the all the relationships we have made amongst the Elite family. I love all the stories and pictures. Many of us got together for a Michigan Elite Lab's Reunion. All the dogs were gorgeous fun and well behaved. Even all the parents were a blast. I could go on and on about Michigan Elite Labs, but most important is the fact I would never get a dog from anyone else! Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. Today, they are some of the most popular companions that families have. Not only do they socialize well with others, but they are intelligent and easy to train. We have compiled a list of some of the top Labrador Retriever breeders in Michigan. Scan this list to find potential breeders near you. The 7 Labrador Retriever Breeders in Michigan 1. Over time, they started growing their kennel and are becoming even more dedicated to providing purebred dogs to families all over Michigan. Michigan Elite Labradors provides puppies certified through the Bred with H. T Breeders with AKC. All their dogs go through extensive health screenings before coming home with you. They were established in and focus on temperament and structural soundness that helps put their dogs into shows or simply become your new best friend. They only breed a few litters per year and often keep some dogs to show, train, or further build their breeding program. They have been a quality breeder since , and most of their dogs are successful competitors in derby, field, and hunting. Oldsquaw focuses on personality as much as they do DNA. These dogs have a reputation for being excellent companions. They pride themselves on providing people quality, champion-pedigreed puppies with recognition from the AKC. Rozey K9 Farm is known by customers for its excellent bloodlines that go through health-testing before being sold. Many of their dogs are involved in several activities and compete in dog shows throughout the year. They sell Black, Yellow, and Chocolate labs, though their yellow range from fox-red to cream. This breeder has a thorough selling process. Expect to answer in-depth questions about your experience with dogs and the environment they are going to be living in. Each dog is socialized and goes through many tests before going home. All their dogs have clearances for elbows, hips, eyes, cardiovascular health. They socialize their labs before allowing them to move to a new home and expose them to regular household living. After a few weeks, Endeavor Labradors exposes their dogs to bird wings and start to crate-train them. They are also micro-chipped , dewormed, and given vaccines as six weeks old. As the years passed, she was able to breed more generations of her champion bloodline. The great thing about this breeder is that they care for their dogs as pets should be. All dogs stay inside the home and are trained to become excellent companions and show dogs. Related Read:. Benefit from a Stronger Dollar. Save hundreds when you exchange your money We take care of everything for you so you can return to Michigan or another state in the USA with everything you need to easily cross the border with your new Lab Puppy. We have focused for the past twelve years as a chocolate Lab breeder and have experienced great success with our chocolate lab puppies in Michigan. Although our focus has been mainly on chocolate Labrador puppies , we also have black Lab puppies and silver Lab puppies for sale at times. We have a couple male studs who carry yellow and a few of our chocolate females do as well. Needless to say that yellow lab puppies for sale to Michigan will be a future topic in our home. Puppies come with a vet examination, free puppy health insurance, microchips not tattoos , and lifetime Labrador breeder support. We also provide a generous discount to the online training website www. If you do not end up getting your puppy from us, we will let you in on a little secret. So please visit the rest of our website and learn more about who we are as Professional Labrador Breeders, the services we have to offer, see pictures of our chocolate lab puppies or possibly our black or silver lab puppies, visit our Facebook page so you can look through hundreds of posts of happy families with their Labradors. We have helped many people from Michigan and the Detroit area find their new Lab puppy. Our goal is to exceed your expectations for adopting simply the best Labrador dog possible weather you are interested in Labrador puppies as a pet, a chocolate Labrador for hunting, or an adult Labrador. We breed both American Labrador retrievers, English Labrador Retrievers yes we know the difference between English and American Labs and also mixes between the two types of retrievers. Field Labradors, a lesser known third type of Lab are also available. Rather, search for the best Labrador retriever breeder in Michigan. Or if you are searching for American Lab breeders in Michigan. Or even chocolate lab puppies for sale in Michigan. We pride ourselves in our work, we love the recognition we get for being a top Labrador retriever breeder and even though we are not in Michigan, we are extremely close to the border. We are a short ferry ride across the border at Algonac Michigan, a 45 minute drive from Port Huron, or about an hour drive from Windsor Labrador Retrievers for Sale Please click the link below if you would like to visit our Lab Puppies for sale and upcoming litters. If you would like to apply you can find our puppy application form at the bottom of our home page where you will also find a map to our location.

Bringing a Poodle into your home is a rewarding experience for the whole family. As a Poodle expert, I get asked all the time about reputable breeders in certain areas. Based on the millions of visitors and by surveying our subscribers we found five reputable Poodle breeders in Ontario that are ethical, quality, and not extortionate. PuppySpot is a reputable dog marketplace where you can browse and find compatible puppies right from the comfort of your home. They have placed over , puppies into homes in the US! If you want further information about their dogs, get in touch with them directly. Be sure to ask plenty of questions! Jessica and Jeremy Edgar and their two children raise the dogs in their home. They are fortunate to have a farm and acres to explore. This breeder ensures that the puppies are well-socialized before going to their new home. They have regular contact with adults, children, other dogs, and a cat in the house. An outdoor play area is provided for the puppies; they also have regular routines for bathing and brushing. A gray merle Poodle is incredibly rare. They require a thorough application to ensure the prospective owner is a good fit for the puppies. Potential owners must describe their previous experience with dogs and knowledge of Poodles. They will be asked to explain their housing and yard situation, their family make-up, and their lifestyle. All Poodles are vaccinated, dewormed, and microchipped before going home with their new owner. They have had a complete exam by a veterinarian as well. Jessica provides support to owners long after they bring their puppy home. People who have received a Poodle from this breeder say that the dogs are intelligent, good with children, and easy to train. Contact Details:. Ready to Adopt Puppyspot Poodle Adoption 5. They have placed over , puppies into homes in the US! Each puppy has up-to-date vaccinations, a written health check guarantee, and complete vet checks. Happy red Poodle puppies All puppies go to their new homes with dew claws removed and tails docked. They will have a complete vet check, up-to-date vaccinations, microchipping, and deworming. The new puppy kit includes: A collar and leash A blanket with scents of mom and litter mates A sample of food You can reach Arreau Red Standard Poodles by calling , emailing [email protected] , or completing their online request form. Bijou Standard Poodles For anyone in the Niagra Falls area, Bijou Standard Poodles is a reputable breeder of this favorite dog and provide brown and red puppies. They do not treat their breeding sires and dams as a business but as part of their family, providing the utmost care and support for their dogs and each litter. A miniature chocolate Poodle puppy eating his dinner. They register with the OFA Orthopedic Foundation of Animals and have complete genetic testing done for all their animals to ensure the best health possible. Puppies from Bijou Standard Poodles come with a thorough health check, microchipping, deworming, tails docked and dew claws removed. They will receive the appropriate vaccinations, deworming, and have CKC registration, along with a leash and collar and full-time breeders support. You can reach Bijou Standard Poodles by emailing [email protected]. They breed dogs from Mexico, Europe, Ukraine, Russia, and the United States to increase the genetic lines and preserve the optimal traits of the breed to avoid interbreeding. When do Poodles shed their puppy coat? At what age? Whether you want a show dog or just a terrific four-legged friend, the miniature Poodles from Denali are a great choice. They have excellent temperaments, possess exceptional beauty, and carry the traits Poodles are known for, including intelligence, grace, and companionship. You can reach them by calling or by submitting an online contact request through the CKC website. They offer top-quality miniature and toy Poodles that will be exceptional show dogs or family companions in your home. The colors they breed for litters include: Black. Here are some tips to help you to find the right Poodle breeder in Ontario. When looking for a breeder, it is important to find someone who is reputable and responsible. The breeder should be willing to answer any questions you have about the breed or the puppies. They should also be willing to provide you with references from other people who have purchased dogs from them. The breeder should also be able to provide you with proof that the puppies have been health tested and are free of genetic defects. The dogs should also be well socialized and raised in a healthy environment. The puppies should be well-cared for and healthy. When you visit, be sure to ask to see the parents of the puppies. The parents should be healthy and free of genetic diseases. They should also be well-socialized. If you are not able to visit the breeder in person, be sure to ask for pictures of the puppies and their parents. More Information About Poodle Puppies in Ontario When it comes to popular dogs in the state of Ontario that comes in both small and medium sizes, Poodles are at the top of the list. These pooches come in three different sizes which include, Toy, Miniature, and Standard. Their coats are one of their most defining features. They can range from long and shaggy to extra fluffy. You can choose from longer to shorter-haired Poodles, and you also have a handful of coat color options to pick from — including traditional black and tan, Red and silver. Plus the best part about Poodles is that they neither shed hair nor dander which makes them a good option for families with allergies. This devoted breed is sweet and versatile, making it easy to care for. If you know any great Poodle Breeders who lives in Ontario, please let us know in the comments below. So we can add it to our list. What is the Breeder Name? Where are they located in Ontario? It really helps others who are looking for Poodle puppies in Ontario. And we believe there are many but we thoroughly review and close check the breeder before adding it to our list. If your friend and relative looking for a Poodle Puppies in Ontario, you can share this post with them. If you are looking for the best Poodle Breeders in Ontario, So you can consider any of these breeders. Stratford Cute and playful golden doodle puppies for rehoming! They are ready to go! These adorable little guys will grow to be pounds. Mother is a golden retriever and father is a poodle. They come with.Ready for their new families! Toronto Rebel and Jack welcomed 10 beautiful puppies June 3. There are 6 available. Saintberdoodle pups are amazing loyal, devoted family members. They are very social, calm and intelligent. They are great.She is absolutely the sweetest. Sleeps through the night and loves to cuddle. She is fully vaccinated and comes.Our adorable puppies currently 6 weeks and radiating with youthful energy. Both mom and.Great with cats and most dogs. Our older female does not like her. Constantly growling at her. This is the reason we looking for a new family. If you are looking for loyal and affectionate companion then these two are the ones. They are very friendly and easy going, they basically.Come with first vaccinations and deworming. Dad is a miniature poodle. The estimated weight of an adult puppy will be lb. The puppies received their first vaccinations and deworming.They are miniature size. The mother is a pure wheaten at 20 lbs and the.There is still a black female at this time. I am a certified breeder and have yearly inspections on my dogs and the facility they are.Non shedding and hypoallergenic! Mom is Bichon, dad is toy poodle. Expected weight for puppies: pounds fully grown. Every puppy.Hypoallergenic and non shedding! Mom is mini Goldendoodle, dad is Mini poodle. Their personalities are: playful, energetic, intelligent, and extremely affectionate. They are an F1B cross meaning that their mother.They have.They are 12 weeks old. They are healthy , crate and pee pads trained. Both parents healthy , nothing health problem.They are 3 months old, and have been veterinarian checked twice, given two sets of vaccinations, and dewormed.Friendly health ,they are very small size now and will approx lbs fully grow. The Girl is on left side of the photos also in pics.Coco and Phoenix welcomed a beautiful litter of F1BB .Both parents, mom gentle Mini Goldendoodle 24lb , and dad an adorable mini poodle 9lb, They are know for non shedding and hypoallergenic. These puppies are finally ready to leave their mom and dad. Their mom is miniature sized.Playful, loving and adorable. Great addition to a loving home. Vaccinated with first shots, de wormed x3 and vet checked. A small deposit can be placed in advance to.Puppies and parents have only natural food with vitamins and minerals from Breeder's Edge. Two Puppies are.Mom is.They will be around 20 pounds full grown. Both come with vet check, first shots and dewormed. They are pee pad trained and no.When you visit them, you can meet both parents, a sweet mom who is 16 lb and our adorable mini poodle dad .Stratford Cute and playful golden doodle puppies for rehoming! They are ready to go! These adorable little guys will grow to be pounds. Mother is a golden retriever and father is a poodle. They come with.Ready for their new families! Toronto Rebel and Jack welcomed 10 beautiful puppies June 3. There are 6 available. Saintberdoodle pups are amazing loyal, devoted family members. They are very social, calm and intelligent. They are great.She is absolutely the sweetest. Sleeps through the night and loves to cuddle. She is fully vaccinated and comes.Our adorable puppies currently 6 weeks and radiating with youthful energy. Both mom and.Visit Website Below to Order Now! Shipping by seller Poodle mix puppies Ottawa Max and Lola are the cutest mini poodle mix with Pomeranian. If you are looking for loyal and affectionate companion then these two are the ones. They are very friendly and easy going, they basically.Come with first vaccinations and deworming. Dad is a miniature poodle. The estimated weight of an adult puppy will be lb. The puppies received their first vaccinations and deworming.They are miniature size. The mother is a pure wheaten at 20 lbs and the.Non shedding and hypoallergenic! Mom is Bichon, dad is toy poodle. Expected weight for puppies: pounds fully grown. Every puppy.Hypoallergenic and non shedding! Mom is mini Goldendoodle, dad is Mini poodle. Their personalities are: playful, energetic, intelligent, and extremely affectionate. They are an F1B cross meaning that their mother.They have.They are 12 weeks old. They are healthy , crate and pee pads trained. Both parents healthy , nothing health problem.They are 3 months old, and have been veterinarian checked twice, given two sets of vaccinations, and dewormed.Friendly health ,they are very small size now and will approx lbs fully grow. The Girl is on left side of the photos also in pics.Coco and Phoenix welcomed a beautiful litter of F1BB .These adorable mini cockapoo puppies are bright eyed,cuddly,active yet friendly little pups tht are looking for there forever new.Both parents, mom gentle Mini Goldendoodle 24lb , and dad an adorable mini poodle 9lb, They are know for non shedding and hypoallergenic. These puppies are finally ready to leave their mom and dad. Their mom is miniature sized.Playful, loving and adorable. Great addition to a loving home. Vaccinated with first shots, de wormed x3 and vet checked. A small deposit can be placed in advance to.Puppies and parents have only natural food with vitamins and minerals from Breeder's Edge. Two Puppies are.Mom is.They will be around 20 pounds full grown. Both come with vet check, first shots and dewormed. They are pee pad trained and no.When you visit them, you can meet both parents, a sweet mom who is 16 lb and our adorable mini poodle dad .Please Contact Adorable mini-poodle puppies for sale! Beautiful pure bred mini poodle puppies born august 1st. Wonderful temperament for all pups, mom and dad have a great disposition as well. You can meet mom and

Breeds The link has been copied! Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. As an admirer of one of these lovely furry companions, you may question how much it costs to buy and own a Labrador Retriever. We'll explore the upfront price of purchasing a puppy and the routine costs associated with pet ownership. We'll also cover various factors that can impact the cost of a Lab and provide tips on how to reduce the cost of owning one. The cost of a Lab can vary depending on several factors such as its age, color, purpose show or field , whether it's a purebred, and more. Routine Care Expenses Owning a Labrador Retriever requires some routine care expenses, which should be taken into account when considering the overall cost of having a pet. One of the essential expenses is veterinary care, which includes routine check-ups, vaccinations, and emergency medical care. Labs are prone to specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia , eye problems, and skin allergies, which may require additional medical attention and expenses. Another routine care expense for Labs is feeding. As they are a somewhat larger breed, they require a substantial amount of food to maintain their weight and energy levels. Additionally, treats, chews, and supplements can also be added to their diet, increasing the overall cost of nutrition. Proper grooming and hygiene are essential to keep a Lab healthy and comfortable. Remember that training and behavioral classes may be necessary to ensure your Lab is well-behaved and socialized, which can also be costly. These expenses should be considered when determining if a Lab is the right breed for you and your budget. How much a Labrador Retriever puppy costs depends on multiple factors, such as the breeder's reputation, the location of the pup, the bloodline, and more. Additionally, the cost may increase if the puppy comes with additional services such as health certificates, microchipping , or first vaccinations. Your pup will also need feeding, grooming, and bathing factored into their expenses, as well as beds, toys, chews, leashes, collars, harnesses, and much more. Consider the following: Buying From a Breeder vs. While adopting a Lab may be less expensive, it is essential to note that some shelters may have restrictions and requirements that need to be met before adoption. Keep in mind that the price of a Labrador based on color may vary by region and how popular that specific color is in that location. However, buyers should be cautious and avoid buying from dishonest breeders who may be selling mixed-breed dogs as purebreds. Breeders Reputation Reputable breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and breed standards usually charge more for their puppies. It's crucial to research the breeder thoroughly and ensure that they follow ethical breeding practices before making a purchase. This includes checking their breeding practices, requesting health certificates and pedigrees, and visiting their facilities in person if possible. Buyers should also be cautious of breeders who offer extremely low prices, as that might be a sign of unethical practices. Estimated Size The estimated size of an adult Labrador retriever is around about .Average Price To Buy A Lab Puppy From A Breeder The average price to buy a Lab puppy from a breeder is different from one person to the next, according to the reputation the breeder has in the community, the dog's bloodline, and their location. Again, the color of the Lab plays a significant factor as well. In addition to the cost of the puppy, there are also other expenses associated with owning a Lab. This includes routine care costs such as food, toys, grooming supplies, and veterinary visits for vaccinations and check-ups. Owners should also budget for unexpected expenses such as emergency veterinary care or unexpected illnesses. Remember that a reputable breeder may charge more for their puppies, but they are more likely to provide you with a healthy, well-socialized puppy from a good bloodline. Average Cost To Adopt A Lab Puppy Adopting a Lab puppy is generally less expensive than buying one from a breeder, but the costs can still vary widely. However, it's crucial to research adoption agencies thoroughly to ensure that they are reputable and the dogs are healthy and well-cared for before making a decision. You don't want to bring a sickly pup into your home, just to end up spending more on medical bills than you had anticipated. However, the costs don't stop there. Once you have your furry friend, ongoing expenses include food, vet bills, grooming, and more. In addition, Labs are known for their love of exploration and adventure, which means they have a penchant for getting lost. You don't want to get a new puppy with the understanding that the breed may be high maintenance, and then you lose track of your dog. The collar uses GPS and cellular technology to track your dog's location in real-time, so you can quickly locate your pet if they ever wander off. The collar also includes additional features such as activity monitoring and geofencing to alert you if your dog leaves a designated area. While the initial cost of the collar may seem high, it can save you money in the long run by preventing the loss or theft of your beloved Lab. Labrador Retriever Breed Guide Labrador Retrievers are outgoing and generally have a friendly disposition toward others. They are loyal, affectionate and make excellent family pets. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them great for first-time dog owners. Due to their friendly nature, they also make excellent therapy dogs and are often used in service roles. Labrador Retrievers generally come in three colors: black, chocolate, and yellow. The coat is short, dense, and water-resistant, which makes them excellent swimmers. Labs can be medium to large dogs that weigh about 55 to 80 pounds on average, with the males usually outweighing the females by ten pounds. Typically, they're around two feet tall inches , and the males will have about a one-inch height advantage over the females. The average lifespan for a Labrador Retriever is around 12 years, although some can live up to 14 years. They are all around healthy, but like all dogs, there are specific ailments that you're more likely to encounter with a Lab, like obesity, ear infections, and hip dysplasia. As for lifetime care costs, they can vary depending on factors such as food, vet bills, and grooming expenses. There are several ways to reduce the cost of owning a Labrador Retriever. One option is to adopt a dog from a local shelter or rescue organization. Adopting a dog from a shelter is usually less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder. Typically, dog shelters will include initial vaccinations, any spaying or neutering services needed, along with essential veterinary care up front. That helps cut down on some of the initial costs that owners usually spend when they first bring a puppy home. However, it's not uncommon that breeders will also at least include the first vaccinations for the pup upon its release to your family. Another option to reduce the cost of owning a Lab is to consider adopting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs may already be trained and require less attention and socialization than a puppy, which can save on training costs and time. Moreover, older dogs may have lower veterinary bills since they may not require as many check-ups or preventative care as a puppy. Finally, another way to save money on the lifetime costs of owning a Labrador Retriever is to invest in preventative care. This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, and regular veterinary check-ups to catch potential health issues early on. While preventive care may require an upfront investment, it can ultimately save money by avoiding expensive medical bills down the line. Final Thoughts: The Cost of Owning a Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds to own, but they can be somewhat high maintenance after you bring them into your home. However, there are ways to reduce costs, such as adopting from a shelter or rescue organization, buying an older dog instead of a puppy, and being mindful of routine care costs. Regardless of the price, it's important to protect your Labrador Retriever with a GPS-tracking dog collar like the one offered by Fi, which can provide peace of mind and ensure the safety of your Lab. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. The link has been copied! You might also like. The costs will be a bit higher at first while you get your dog the shots it requires and pay for the frequent visits to the vet. We also recommend getting your dog spayed or neutered unless you are a professional breeder, and it might even be required as part of your contract if you purchase from a breeder. Once your dog is an adult, it will not require as many vet visits and will only need booster shots every few years, so the average monthly costs will be much lower. Experts recommend getting all of the shots, but your dog is only legally required to get the rabies shot. We recommend purchasing a high-quality brand with real meat like chicken, turkey, or salmon listed as the first ingredient. The protein in meat will help build muscle and provide the energy your dog needs to stay healthy. High protein diets will also help your dog stay full longer, and it will be less likely to come looking for food. Foods with corn as the top ingredient are mostly empty calories that will leave your pet feeling hungry and looking for more food, potentially causing it to become obese. During the shedding seasons of spring and fall, you will likely need to increase the brushing to several times a week to help keep the fur off your furniture and floor. Professional grooming can also help with teeth brushing and nail clipping. This medication can also help prevent heartworm. Spot Pet Insurance offers customizable plans that you can adapt to your breed's specific needs. Many people forgo pet insurance, but it can be a great way to protect yourself from a huge expense while making sure your Labrador Retriever has the best healthcare possible. Accidents and serious illnesses can occur at any time, and many procedures can cost thousands of dollars which makes the price of insurance more than worth it, especially if you get it while your dog is still a puppy. It can chew up stuffed animals quickly, so they can get expensive, but there are plenty of options for a chewing dog, like the Lab. Another option is to purchase a subscription to a monthly service like the Bark Box that sends your dog new toys and activities for as long as you keep up your subscription. A full-grown dog only requires food and flea and tick medication to stay healthy, a few toys to play with, and treats here and there. Additional Costs to Factor In If you like to go on long vacations, you might need to factor in the additional costs of traveling with a dog. Many rental cars do not allow pets or will charge you extra, and the same is true for hotels. Owning a Labrador Retriever on a Budget Your Labrador Retriever will be relatively inexpensive once you get the medical things out of the way. A high-quality food may seem more expensive, but it will help keep your dog full so that it will eat less. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Saving Money on Labrador Retriever Care The best way to save money on healthcare when raising your Labrador Retriever is to keep it a healthy weight by following portion recommendations on the food you serve and by helping them get enough exercise. Obesity can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues that can shorten the lifespan of your pet. After the initial cost of the puppy , you will need to pay a few hundred dollars to get it spayed or neutered and get the shots it needs. After that, you will only need to provide food and shelter with the occasional booster shot. We hope you have enjoyed reading over this guide, and that it has helped answer your questions. If we have helped you create a budget that allows you to get one of these amazing pets, please share this guide on how much it costs to own a Labrador Retriever on social media. Featured Image Credit: scott, Pixabay Contents. Are they good family dogs? Labrador Dog Price — The Costs Involved Buying a Labrador is not just a question of the purchase price of a Lab puppy, though of course that is important. There are other costs involved, both financial, emotional and in terms of time and effort. So we need to look at those too. You may be wondering whether you will have the time for a dog, and if you have the space and energy for a large and lively breed? But this page will take you back to the fundamental considerations, to help you to make the right choice for you and your family. Do you have time for a dog? Can you afford a dog? What about your lifestyle? Will a dog fit in with your family? Is a Labrador the right dog for you? These questions all apply regardless of the type of Labrador you are looking for. The needs of a black Lab, yellow Lab or chocolate Lab are all the same in these respects. The same goes for an English or American Labrador too. Dogs need space, both indoors and outside. Even small breeds need room to stretch their legs and run about. And Labradors as fairly large and lively dogs need quite a lot of space. This means you need a decent sized backyard if you plan on buying a Labrador puppy. Somewhere that your Lab dog can run around, play and enjoy training sessions with you. Labradors can be quite silly during adolescence, bouncing and cavorting in the home. Their tails are long and thick, easily knocking any fragile decorations you might have from shelves. If you have lots of ornaments then you will need to move them to higher shelves to avoid them getting damaged. You will also need to move anything that could be easily damaged by chewing. With small puppies this will be very often indeed. Perhaps every 15 to 20 minutes during their first few days with you. If you live in a flat, or do not have a garden, this will be difficult for you. These are helpful but do take up a lot of space. Although this will take up a lot of space indoors, it can work very well for larger apartments with no easy outside access. Ideally however you do need to have a garden, and a part of the garden which your dog can use as a bathroom, along with a good system for clearing up after him hygienically. Space is key for a Lab dog! The right space for a Labrador includes large clear rooms in the house, with no breakable or fragile objects within his grasp. And ideally access to a garden where they can easily be let out to the bathroom and have room to play. Keeping a single Labrador permanently outside however is not usually a good idea, even with adequate shelter and security. Labs are very sociable dogs and prone to separation anxiety if they lack company. This means your dog may be both sad and noisy. It is always sad to hear from new puppy owners that are struggling to juggle the needs of a puppy with their need to work. These articles will help you to deal with this common issue. Even with a visit at lunch time. An older dog may cope with being left for up to four hours in row on a regular basis, but puppies need more attention than this. Contented Labradors are fairly quiet dogs and unlikely to disturb your neighbors. Nor are they very good guard dogs. However, lonely dogs bark and wreck things. If you work all day, can you afford to pay someone to come in and let him out to stretch his legs and empty himself? Or do you have a relative or friend that would be prepared to do this on a regular basis. Bear in mind that this is quite a lot to ask of anyone in the long term. The biggest long term time commitment in owning a dog is in the form of training and exercise. Training Takes Time All dogs need training in order that they can rub along in human society without being a complete nuisance. This means a regular daily commitment of ten to twenty minutes from you, in addition to your regular interaction with the dog. Training cannot be saved up for the weekend, your dog will have forgotten most of what he learnt the weekend before, and he does not have the attention span to concentrate on you for an hour and a half. You can find out more about training your Labrador puppy here. Staying Fit Exercise is required on a regular basis, for some breeds of dog this means at least an hour a day of walking or jogging to keep your dog fit and healthy. You can find out more about the exercise requirements of a Labrador puppy here. Whilst your dog will not come to any harm if you miss a day occasionally, a daily routine is often the best way to ensure that you build this important habit. Can You Afford A Dog? Dogs can be quite expensive to run. You need to consider not only how much a Labrador will cost you to buy, but also how much it will cost you to keep. How much do Labradors cost from breeders? The price of a Labrador puppy will vary from breeder to breeder, and from place to place. Perhaps you know a friend that has a litter of puppies and they are going to let you have one for free. However, the purchase price of a dog is almost irrelevant. It is such a small part of the final cost. The cost of keeping a Labrador The reality is, you are also going to need to fork out a chunk of your wages each week on keeping your pooch happy and healthy. Obviously you will have taken the cost of a good brand of Labrador puppy food into consideration. It is a good idea to budget for veterinary insurance too. Not because it is unreasonably priced, but simply because it is now so advanced. You can fix a lot of problems these days. We can do open heart surgery, mend complex fractures, treat cancer with radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Pretty much anything you can treat in a human, you can now treat in a dog. And the catch? It costs. The more comprehensive your insurance package the more it will cost. Watch out for very cheap deals, as they may not provide continuing cover for long term ailments. You will also need to vaccinate your dog against common canine illness , and this will probably need to be done each year too. Especially if you are wanting to occasionally leave them in boarding kennels when you go away, as they require up to date vaccination certificates. Labrador Puppy Costs There will be a few other one-off costs such as a puppy crate and puppy play pen for your home for when your dog is young, another for your car if you have one. Then there are bowls, bedding, collar, leash etc. But you may be able to borrow a crate or get one second hand. Here are some of the items you will need for your new Labrador puppy, and reviews on the best options for Labradors:. How Much Does a Labrador Cost? And, this is just the upfront cost of the puppy. This includes the cost of food, veterinary bills, grooming, bedding, and so on. Labrador puppy costs depend on a few factors. Quality of the breeder Quality of the parent dogs Type of Labrador eg. For instance, puppy prices tend to be higher before Christmas, so buy a puppy in the spring, instead. Originally, black Labs were favored above other colors. Brown and yellow Labs were extremely uncommon, and were not at all desirable. Over time, this opinion changed and brown and yellow Labs became more accepted. Shooting communities still tend to prefer the black Lab, but yellow Labs are very common in other working roles, like as therapy dogs and guide dogs. On the whole, each official Labrador color will cost a similar amount. But, yellow and brown Labs may cost slightly more than black Labs, since the genes that cause their coloring are recessive and therefore are less common. Non-Standard Colors Labrador costs can be hugely increased or reduced by non standard colors or patterns. For instance, dilute shades or mismarks. Dilute coloring is recessive and highly controversial in the Labrador community. The genes that cause these shades will dilute pigmentation, turning black Labs into charcoal Labs, chocolate Labs into silver Labs, and yellow Labs into champagne Labs. Some believe this color results from cross-breeding. But, others believe the recessive genes simply remained hidden over generations, like original yellow and chocolate coloring. Dilute colors are not accepted in the official breed standard. So, many breeders will not adjust their price, and may even lower it for unexpected dilute puppies. The same is the case with mismarks. Mismarks can include white patches and spots, brindling, and even tan markings. Extensive mismarks will disqualify a Lab from show. Show type Labs are bred to fit the Labrador breed standard. They are usually slightly stockier and less active than field types. Field types are more often bred for their working ability than for any specific appearance. Labradors cost more when they are bred to show standards. Field Labs tend to be cheaper than Labradors bred for show. But, you should consider which type is best for you, rather than just going for the cheapest Labrador you can find. Field type Labs can be much more energetic and active than show types. First time owners may find the English Lab slightly easier to raise and train! Conversely, Labrador costs can be highest with field trial champion bred dogs that are likely to win awards. Labrador Costs From Breeders vs Shelters Labrador puppies from reputable breeders will cost more than dogs from a rescue center. Whilst Labs from breeders can cost thousands of dollars, Labradors from rescue centers can only be a few hundred dollars. A major difference between Labs from a breeder and Labs from a rescue center is the history of the dogs. Puppies from a breeder will stay with their mom and siblings until 8 weeks old. At 8 weeks, puppies can go to their new home. Rescue center dogs can have unknown histories, or even histories that involve abuse. Labs from rescue centers are usually older, and have often lived with other families. However, many Labs are given up for non-behavioral reasons. They can be just as wonderful pets as puppies from a breeder. And, many dogs from rescue centers will have basic training, including house training, obedience, and potentially recall. Why Are Breeders So Expensive? Reputable breeders tend to cost more than any other puppy source. Breeders have to spend a lot when breeding a litter, and all of this will lower their profit margins. Labrador breeding costs include: Health testing and certificates.