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Every six months, or twice a year, German Shepherds go into heat. This is common of huge dog breeds, while smaller dogs could go into heat times annually, and the largest kinds only once a year. In German Shepherds, the time between heat cycles is roughly 6 months. German Shepherd interestrus intervals were reported to be .The cycles of senior German Shepherds will be slower and have fewer heat seasons. Notwithstanding this, your dog will continue to go through estrus throughout her life and is still capable of becoming pregnant despite the shorter estrus seasons. Conception — Gestation delays menstrual cycles and reproductive seasons, just as it does in humans. Your GSD is fertile right now, so mating with her could result in a pregnancy. However, keep in mind that if a female German Shepherd mates before the estrus period, she may become pregnant. This is due to the fact that canine spermatozoa can potentially live for up to 11 days in the female genital canal and are mobile. This is due to the fact that many people believe the proestrus and estrus heat cycle stages to be included in the heat period. She is now fertile enough to become pregnant and is ready to mate. In addition, a dog may become more aggressive toward other female dogs and display unusually increased interest their male counterparts. Urine marking, repeated genital licking and excitement are other signs that your dog wants to breed. To understand the signs that the heat cycle is ending, you should first know what to expect when your female German shepherd is in heat. After all, there is no indication that the heat cycle is ending besides the fact that the signs start to fade away. This lasts for an average of 9 days. The most obvious sign of this stage is when male dogs start to crowd outside of your house. They become attracted. Regardless, your female dog will start to show vaginal bleeding at this stage, although the blood becomes lighter as the period progresses. See also Can german shepherds eat blueberries? During the flagging stage, the dark red vaginal discharge will turn lighter. You may also notice your pet rubbing their rear end against furniture or other objects. These are indications that your female German shepherd is ready to mate. This is also the stage where mature eggs are released from the ovary. Metestrus: Matestrus can be considered as the stage for pregnancy and can last for an average of 9 days. The most noticeable sign is a bulged abdomen, for obvious reasons. Anestrus: Anestrus is the period between each heat cycle and as previously said, it lasts for about 6 months. Some signs will be shown by the female German shepherd throughout the whole heat cycle. A female dog in heat not eating is a normal occurrence throughout the heat cycle. While they may not eat much, you should stock up for when the time comes for them to make up for their lost weight. Female dog aggression during the heat cycle is another sign that your pet is in heat, regardless of the stage. Learn more » A German Shepherd female will enter the heat cycle, known as estrus, at around 6 to 12 months of age. Your pet is about to go through some serious changes in her body as her estrogen levels rise, and she will need to be kept comfortable and safe during the heat cycle, which lasts about 21—28 days. Read on to learn more about the length of the German Shepherd heat cycle and how to take care of your dog. German Shepherd Heat Cycle German Shepherd females usually have their first heat cycles starting anywhere from 6 months to 12 months of age. The heat cycle will last about 21—28 days, and there are roughly two heat cycles per year. There are three stages of heat: proestrus, estrus, and anestrus. A bloody red discharge will appear at this time. Your German Shepherd will not be interested in mating during this phase, and it lasts approximately 7 to 10 days. Estrus is the time during which your German Shepherd female will be interested in mating. It will last around 9 days but could last 3 to 21 days. Your female could become pregnant during this phase of the heat cycle. The bloody discharge turns a lighter red and may become straw-colored during this time. Females will flag by raising their tails or placing them on the side to expose their vagina, which means your dog is ready to breed. Anestrus is the stage where the heat cycle ceases and it lasts about 4 to 5 months until the next heat cycle begins. Some German Shepherd females may go into heat every 6 months, while others may only have one heat cycle per year. The length of the cycle might also vary with some dogs experiencing cycles that last longer than 28 days. Every female German Shepherd will have her own cycle, and you will need to learn to anticipate it to help your dog through the process. Image Credit: adamkontor, Pixabay How to Care for a German Shepherd in Heat When your female German Shepherd goes into heat, you will need to take special care to separate her from any male dogs for at least 21 days, unless you are planning on breeding her. She will also often lick at herself to clean her blood, or you can use a diaper to catch the blood and help ensure that a male will not be able to breed with her. She will also get more vocal as her heat cycle continues. Your female may also display signs of nervousness and anxiety during this time. Play with her, give her love and attention, and let her exercise to her preferred level, as she may have less energy than normal. Final Thoughts German Shepherd females will experience a heat cycle that lasts approximately 21—28 days. During this time, she will go through the first two phases of heat, known as proestrus and estrus, during which she will bleed and be ready to breed. Featured Image Credit: adamkontor, Pixabay Contents. Mice may live only a year or two, whereas an elephant can live 70 years in the wild. Dogs stand as a stark contrast to that fact. A Toy Poodle may live over 14 years in contrast to the average 7 years for a Saint Bernard. That fact plays a direct role when a German Shepherd Dog goes into heat. Research suggests that larger breeds mature slower with shorter lifespans is because it takes so much energy and genetic resources to reach their adult sizes. While that Toy Poodle may be sexually mature at 5—6 months, the German Shepherd Dogs will need some extra time to achieve the same growth level at 9—15 months. The factors that will affect the start include: Age Overall health Size and weight You have some control over those variables, but the die is cast for most of them. Image Credit: Eudyptula, Shutterstock Signs of Estrus in Dogs As a large breed, you can expect the estrus cycle to last between 14—21 days for your German Shepherd dog. It will occur around twice a year for breeds of this size. The first signs that your pup is receptive to males are physical. You may also see your pet licking its genital area as a result. The swelling puts added pressure on other internal organs, including the bladder. The telltale sign is the bloody discharge. Your pup may seem more anxious or agitated. It may mount other objects. Your German Shepherd Dog will permit mating around 10 days into its cycle. Its vaginal discharge will gradually decrease. Either the estrus will end after a long anestrus stage, where all signs will abate, or pregnancy will begin. Care of a Female Dog in Heat The question of what to do with your pet depends on whether you want your dog to have puppies. Females are just as determined as males when it comes to mating. If you take your dog on walks, keep your pup on a short leash. We suggest erring on the side of caution and adhering to these restrictions for the entire 21 days. The discharge and swelling both will have stopped. The pros for spaying your dog: Less impact on overpopulation of dogs Reduces the risk of some cancers of the reproductive system Lessens the chances of potentially life-threatening pyometra The cons for spaying your dog: Heightened risk of vaccine reactions Increases chances of orthopedic conditions and bone cancer Urinary incontinence Obesity Genetic factors play a significant role in determining whether or not the surgery is the best choice for your German Shepherd Dog. It typically occurs later in these pets after 6 months of age. It also affects the timespan between the cycles, which will likely happen twice a year. Knowing the signs can help you prevent an unwanted pregnancy until you and your vet discuss the best option for your dog. Related Reads:. During these days, your GSD is fertile and can get pregnant if she mates. Note, however, that a female German Shepherd can get pregnant if she happens to mate before the estrus period. This is because many people consider the heat period to include both the proestrus and the estrus phases of the heat cycle. A change in the color of discharge pinkish instead of blood-stained. Frequent urination. A loss of appetite. Your dog may also be more aggressive to fellow females and exhibit extra interest in male dogs. Frequent licking of the genitals, agitation, and urine marking are also indications of readiness to mate. Contrary to popular belief, a GSD spraying is not just a boy thing! Here are 7 things you should do to care for a German Shepherd in heat: Keep your dog engaged to distract her from the discomfort of the hormonal changes during the heat period. Playing games, offering treat-filled toys, or taking short walks can help keep your dog happy and calm. This entails keeping her on a leash during walks, not leaving her unattended in the backyard or garden, and keeping her in a separate room in the home. Keep your GSD from carpeted areas of the home, couches, and bedding during the bleeding phase of the heat cycle. Alternatively, you can consider using dog diapers to stop the blood from staining floors and the bedding that your dog lies on. These have a better fit due to the stretchable fabric that fits perfectly around your dog. If your GSD is trying to lick her genitals while in a diaper, consider removing it for some time to give her a chance to self-groom. If your GSD shows the need for extra rest, always allow this. Ensure your dog gets all the recommended nutrients in her meal during heat, including enough fresh drinking water. If your GSD shows a preference for a different meal from the usual, consider giving it to her to boost her appetite. Keep the surrounding environment calm and free of extreme noise or disturbance. Your dog is sensitive to any form of stress during this period. If your GSD shows extreme discomfort or signs of pain in the swollen vulva, use heating pads to give some relief. Your German Shepherd may show unique characteristics and needs during heat. Be attentive and consult your vet about any unusual signs you do not know how to address. German Shepherds go into heat twice a year, approximately every 6 months. This is typical of large dog breeds, as smaller dogs may go into heat times a year, and the largest breeds only once a year. Two studies focusing on dog estrus cycles reported .This may change depending on your dog and her body clock. If your dog is experiencing irregular cycles, you may want to talk to a vet to determine if this is normal or if there are underlying causes. Instead, older German Shepherds will have slowed cycles with fewer heat seasons. Despite this, your dog will still experience estrus her entire life and can still get pregnant despite the reduced estrus seasons. Conception As happens in humans, gestation delays menstrual periods and fertility seasons. Similarly, the interestrus interval, or the period between estrus seasons, is prolonged in German Shepherds and other dogs after whelping. A study reported that German Shepherd Dogs had a regular 6-month estrus interval under normal circumstances, but the interval was prolonged by 58 days in German Shepherds who went into gestation. Seasons Though seasonality is generally considered a non-factor in estrus frequency in German Shepherds and other dogs, it is not an impossibility. Do German Shepherds Experience Menopause? Nonetheless, the estrus phase of their heat cycle will become less regular and last fewer days as your dog ages. If your dog misses an estrus, talk to your vet to rule out any triggering medical conditions. Your German Shepherd does not need to have her first heat to be spayed. In fact, some studies have shown that spaying your German Shepherd before maturity 6 months can predispose your dog to joint disorders like hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as some types of cancer like mast cell tumor and lymphoma. Have your GSD checked by a vet if you notice any discharges different from a blood-stained discharge during proestrus and a pinkish or brownish discharge during estrus. The best way to tell if your German Shepherd is in pain during her heat is to pay close attention to her behavior and body language. Look for signs of discomfort such as panting, pacing, or restlessness. She may also be reluctant to move or play. If she is vocalizing more than usual, this could also be a sign of pain. In addition to her behavior, you should also look for physical signs of pain. This happens around months but can be earlier or later in some dogs. Once your German Shepherd has had her first heat, the heat cycles are repeated every 6 months for the rest of her life. Related Posts You May Like:. Is my female GSD in heat? How can I tell? Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. How will I know? What do I do? Intact female dogs dogs that have not been surgically spayed , and that are sexually mature are said to be in estrus, "in heat", or "in season", during their occasional "cycle" in preparation to breed and reproduce. House Clean While Your GSD Is In Heat On average, the complete canine reproductive heat cycle takes about 6 months in length which results in about 2 heat cycles each year for most female Alsatian dogs. Be aware of all aspects of your dogs health and behavioral life, prepare accordingly and you should both have a long and healthy life together. Female German Shepherds, also called bitches, generally have their first heat cycle at around 6 to 12 months of age. Sometimes, a female GSD in heat may not have their first seasonal estrus cycle until they are 12 months of age or older, depending on that particular dog. Remember, however, that this information is very general and not all female dogs will follow these exact patterns. Overall, each individual female dogs heat cycle pattern tends to be relatively close to the basic average, length wise, however lengths of heat cycles may differ from female to female when the female German Shepherd goes into heat. In most cases, the average female German Shepherd Dogs heat cycle lasts about 3 to 4 weeks. Some female German Shepherds can come into estrus as early as every 4 months, while others may do so only once a year. Some canine heat cycles, just like in human females, may be shorter than average while other dogs may have longer ones 4 weeks or longer. Remember these important points concerning your female GSD in heat and her yearly heat cycles and prepare accordingly. First, assume your dog to be "in season" for at least 21 days, possibly longer, which will vary due to your own individual females heat cycle. Second, and this is very important, keep in mind that conception is most likely to happen during the middle section of your GSD's heat cycle - typically around 7 to 14 days after the heat cycles starts. Third, you will need to confine your girl for the entire heat cycle - at least 21 days or more depending on your particular bitch, to make sure that accidental mating does not happen. Whether you keep her indoors or out you will need to make sure that her environment is "Romeo proof". And believe me, you will need to think of everything because an interested male can be very vigilant in getting into a females area if she is in heat. These boys can climb, dig or break into just about any area if so inclined. If your female is in an area that has any weaknesses of any kind, believe me, "Romeo" will find it, get in and breed your female if she is willing. If you have any questions about your female GSD in heat, consult with your veterinarian or breeder - especially if your dogs heat cycles do not seem "normal". Cycling problems in female dogs can often be an early indicator of other or more serious health problems. Is my female German Shepherd in heat? First Stage - Proestrus: begins with the appearance of vaginal bleeding, swelling of the vulva, and possible increase in urination yes, females can mark their territory, especially when they are in heat. The most noticeable thing of all when you have a female GSD in heat, even if you're not sure your female GSD is in heat, is when male dogs begin to hang around the house. Your female German Shepherd will still reject the male during this first stage. Fertilization can not happen at this time. The length of proestrus on average is about 9 days. Second Stage - Estrus: the time in which the female dog will allow the male to breed her. This time is also called "standing heat" and can last anywhere from 4 to 21 days depending on the individual German Shepherd Dog. One particular behavior to look for during this time is called "flagging", which may last between 4 to 7 days. This is just one indicator that is very telling that your female is getting ready to be bred. Ovulation does occur during this flagging stage. Concerning any female GSD in heat, the dark red, bloody vaginal discharge will eventually turn to a lighter shade of red over time. In most dogs, once this vaginal discharge becomes wheat or straw colored, the dog can be said to be most ready for accepting the male and breeding. Third Stage - Metestrus: this is the stage that readies the uterus for pregnancy, and can easily last 4 to 14 days. False pregnancies frequently occur during this time. If fertilization does occur the fertilized eggs may take up to a week before they attach themselves to the uterine wall. Overall this stage averages out as approximately 7 days. Keep in mind that this interval of time will stay the same even if the dog becomes pregnant. If fertilization does not occur then this stage will revert back to anestrus, which is stage four of this process. Fourth Stage - Anestrus: the resting time between heats which normally lasts about 5 or 6 months. If you decide that you need to know exactly what stage of estrus your female GSD may be in, your veterinarian can easily assist you in figuring this out. Scientifically your veterinarian can perform an analysis of the cells of the vagina under the microscope cytology , as well as being able to measure progesterone levels present in your dogs bloodstream. There is no benefit of any kind in letting your female german shepherd have a litter of puppies before having her spayed. In fact, the earlier you spay your dog, the more health risks you are deleting for her down the road, such as breast and other types of cancers, or pyometra, among others. In fact, if you spay you dog before her first heat cycle, you actually give her the most health benefits of all associated with the spaying process. If you do not intend to breed your GSD bitch, you really should consider spaying her and there are many, many positive reasons why. First, you will be helping to control the animal overpopulation problem by cutting down on unwanted litters. Secondly, there are many health benefits associated with spaying your dog and no longer having to deal with a female GSD in heat. Any potential reproductive problems your female GSD in heat could acquire down the road will be almost alleviated by this one simple act. Third, you will no longer have to deal with any of the hygenic issues of a female GSD in heat, such as the vulvular discharges, etc. If you do decide to spay your German Shepherd , this can be done during her heat cycle however it would probably be better to wait until the heat cycle is completely over to decrease the chance of any type of complications during surgery. Knowing your dog and being able to provide for her in all situations, even when your female GSD in heat is flagging everything in sight, is just one important part of being a dog owner. Sign up for promotions, news, discounts, and the chance to win prizes for you and your German Shepherd E-mail Address. For owners who are experiencing this event for the first time, it can be particularly confusing. Understanding the normal occurrence of the heat cycle is necessary if you are not sterilizing your female German Shepherd. German Shepherd Heat Cycle The heat cycle , also known as Estrus, is a four-stage cycle comprising of proestrus, estrus, diestrus, and anestrus that occurs in a female German Shepherd when she reaches puberty and begins her first menstrual period. This typically occurs at the age of four months in most German Shepherds but can vary based on factors such as nutrition, age, and environment. Various changes, including behavioral, clinical, hormonal, physiological, and cytological, can be observed during this time. How long are German Shepherds in heat? It is important for owners to be aware of when their female German Shepherds will mature and reach puberty, as well as the duration of the heat cycle, signs of puberty in a female dog, the number of estrus cycles in a year, and any normal or abnormal parameters observed during the heat cycle. Here are explanations of the events and answers to the above questions described one by one. When do German Shepherds get their period? The normal age at which a physiologically normal female German Shepherd begins her menstrual period is between 6 to 10 months of age. This age is referred to as the age of puberty. The first bleeding during the proestrus stage of the heat cycle is considered to be the onset of puberty. At this stage, a female German Shepherd is capable of reproducing and giving birth to offspring. The age or time of puberty can vary between 4 months to 2 years. A bitch that is older than 24 months and has not shown any signs of heat is considered abnormal. How often do German Shepherds go in heat? Female German Shepherds are considered nonseasonal and monoestrous, meaning they do not experience heat continuously or seasonally. The heat cycle lasts for 6 to 7 months and can vary depending on factors such as age, environment, and nutrition. As a result, a female German Shepherd typically goes through heat twice a year. This is only possible if the female German Shepherd is provided with proper nutrition, a healthy environment, and proper management. If the female experiences stress, the estrus cycle may be disrupted, resulting in variations from the normal average values. To ensure normal estrus cycles, provide a proper environment with normal healthy temperature, humidity, and well-balanced, nutritious feed. Consult your nearest veterinarian or dietitian for the formulation of a diet plan. German Shepherd in heat signs The German Shepherd will exhibit different signs when it is in heat. The following are signs of heat, which are divided as follows: Sr. All canine females go through the heat cycle once they reach a certain age. That age is based largely on their breed and size, but there is always some wiggle room here. Generally speaking, a female dog can enter estrus—the heat cycle—around six months of age to nine months, though some wait until a year or longer to begin. Since her reproductive organs have been removed, she no longer goes through the cycle. German Shepherds are large dogs. This means they are more likely to wait a bit longer to have their first heat. Some wait up to two years. Even so, you should be watching your GSD closely for signs of estrus as early as four months of age. What does all of this actually mean? When a female dog reaches sexual maturity, she will begin what is called the heat cycle. The medical term is estrus, though some people call it being in season or sometimes doggie periods. When a dog is in heat, she will be receptive to breeding, usually resulting in a litter of puppies. When a female GSD is in heat, she will give some fairly obvious signs. There are many physiological changes taking place inside her, so her systems may seem out of whack. A blood-tinged discharge may be present during estrus, and it happens to be the sign that most people notice first. Many dogs clean themselves very well during this time so there is nothing to worry about, but not all are able to keep up with this. A swollen vulva is a frequent occurrence during heat. Your dog may spend more time licking herself and cleaning this area. Nervousness or distraction are two behavioral signs of heat in German Shepherds. This is due to the surge in hormones. However, not all dogs go through this phase. Many simply take it in stride. Flagging is the act of flipping her tail to one side and presenting her vulva to male dogs in the vicinity. While generally harmless, some dogs even flag their owners. It may become a bit annoying if your dog is particularly insistent about it, but try not to punish her for this behavior. Most dogs will go into heat approximately once every six months. With all things in nature, however, there is a wide variation that is perfectly normal, too. Many larger breeds, such as Great Danes, will have delayed starts and longer periods between each heat cycle. Since German Shepherds are large dogs, you may only see one heat cycle a year. In fact, you may only see one every eighteen months or so. It Takes Practice Even though Mother Nature did a pretty good job creating the systems that keep our dogs running, there will always be room for errors and hiccups. Sometimes, it can take a year or more for your dog to get into a relatively predictable cycle. Some dogs take up to two years after the start of their first heat cycle to find their unique pattern. Older and Wiser You may have just gotten used to her heat cycle by four, five, or six years of age, then suddenly things go haywire again. Perhaps she had one cycle this year when she usually has two, or maybe it lasted a shorter time than normal. As with other mammals, the fertile period for dogs starts to decrease as she ages. The older a dog is, the less fertile she will become. This is because a German Shepherd is born with all the eggs or at least the follicles she will ever have, a bit like humans. There are differences, of course—such as canine eggs being far more immature than human eggs upon release—but the basic mechanics are the same. Those eggs will slowly lose their effectiveness and die off, even though their method of ovulation is slightly different than ours. You may have noticed a trend in this article so far—heat cycles can vary widely, and size plays a pretty big role. Some dogs, often the very tiny breeds, may be in heat for only a few days. Others can be in heat for weeks on end. Shorter heat cycles of less than a week are pretty rare though. The average heat cycle for a German Shepherd is about three weeks. As your dog ages, her cycles may shorten or lengthen. They may decide to check her hormone levels and do a physical to be sure nothing scary is happening. It is a common misconception that male dogs also go into heat. Because male German Shepherds are sexually active year-round after reaching sexual maturity, of course , they are highly attuned to any in-season females in the vicinity. When they sense a female in heat, they will begin to act strangely, becoming aggravated, agitated, and may even develop aggression. To the untrained eye—or a misinformed owner—this seems an awful lot like a heat cycle in a male dog. Removing him from the source of his frustration the smell of the female in heat will quickly return him to his normal behaviors. Thanks, Science! Another Myth Thwarted! Before we get started, please stick around until the end of the article. Your sweet little boy needs some help, too! Not for her body at least. What you can do, however, is be an emotional support human for your dog. Be Loving Even though this is a totally natural thing for dogs, it might be frightening to a young German Shepherd who has never been in heat before. It can also be upsetting and stressful to an older dog who has had a traumatic first or second heat cycle, too. Now is your chance to remind your dog how much you love her. Speak softly if she seems agitated. Be gentle and kind. Protect Your Furniture and Floor With the squishy, loving part out of the way, we should look at practicality. Heat cycles can be messy. Between the excessive urination, the bloody discharge, and the antsy chewing, your house could end up a huge mess. These are basically dog diapers. They are designed to catch the discharge and may even save your rug from a urination accident. Dog diapers come in a variety of sizes, styles, and prices. There are disposables available, but if you care about the environment, look into washable fabric diapers or period garments. A word of warning: Do not use dog diapers as a birth control method. They do not stop hormone-driven dogs from mating. This involves keeping your in-heat GSD in a room with a tile or linoleum floor. Keep in mind that estrus discharge can smell quite strongly. Trust us on this one. Most dogs will clean up after themselves, but only their own bodies. A Crate is a Cave If you crate trained your dog when she was a puppy, her crate might be a good option. Be sure to wash her bedding thoroughly after each visit to the crate. If you thought estrus blood on your tile smelled bad, just wait until you get a whiff of it after three days on her dog bed. Intact females can be a bit aggressive toward one another. This is especially true of those in heat. Do not bring her to the dog park or leave her unattended in your yard. The Leash is the Way Even in your own yard, keep your German Shepherd on a leash when she is in heat. If you must take her outside for any reason, even in your fenced yard, put the leash on. As mentioned earlier, every male dog in the neighborhood and even from outside the neighborhood will be chewing through your fence, digging under it, or hopping over it to get to your GSD. You might try to play a new game or even just repeat an old favorite. Spend extra time with her and you will both benefit from the attention. This is especially true for new dog owners or those who have never experienced a heat cycle before with a previous pet. While there, your veterinarian will examine your dog. Chances are good that everything will be perfectly fine. This is the perfect time to ask all your questions and to get some support. You should walk away feeling much more capable of handling the next few weeks. You now know that male dogs do not go into heat. How can you help your male dog survive a heat cycle? Her smell may have clung to her owner out for a walk alone, for example. Regardless, if there is a female in heat somewhere within walking distance, your male dog is going to know it… and so will you. Distance Keep your male German Shepherd indoors if you know there is a dog in heat nearby. It may not seem fair, but either is creating a bunch of unexpected puppies. If your male dog is showing signs of sniffing out a female in heat, keep him locked up inside, on a leash when outside, and under your careful supervision at all times. Male dogs can become incredibly aggressive when a female is in heat. Some people have luck with menthol products dabbed on windowsills or door frames. Other people have tried strong-smelling, natural products such as mint or sour apple. Every dog is different, so try a few things to try to hide that smell. The goal is to make the house heat-proof, not your dog. Important note: Before you use any essential oils around your dog, make sure that you are prepared to do it in a safe manner. We have an excellent post linked for you below that will take all of the guesswork out of it and make sure that your dog stays safe. Is Aromatherapy Bad for Dogs? How to Safely Use It Leave It may not be feasible for all situations, but if you can manage it, leave the area with your dog. Think of it as a vacation with your good boy. Distraction You may not always know where the female in heat is located, nor can you get away. In these cases, you still need to keep your male dog locked up. But try to keep him occupied with fun distractions. Games, toys, treats, and lots of time with you should help some. Doggy Daycare and Boarding If all else fails, you can enroll your male dog in a doggy daycare or boarding session. Most daycares and boarders do not allow females in heat, so your dog will be safe and happy playing with other dogs while the air clears around your home. There are some male dogs that become completely loony when they sense a female in heat. Sometimes, there is no other option but asking your vet for help. Some vets may have suggestions before trying medications for calming your dog, too. It never hurts to ask. And at the very least, they can prescribe a medication to help keep your buddy calm and serene until the storm of estrus passes. How Is That Fair? When you own a German Shepherd, their needs should always come before your own. In this case, your male GSD is suffering, frustrated, and may even become aggressive if you choose to do nothing. You could end up with unwanted puppies at your door in a few months, a big vet bill for a c-section, or even worse, a hospital bill when your dog bites someone in his frenzy to get to the female in heat. The bottom line is that your pride and entitlement mean squat when it comes to keeping your male German Shepherd safe, happy, and healthy. Give him the love and care he needs. Final Thoughts When a female German Shepherd goes into heat, it can be a time of stress, mess, and frustration for everyone. If you prepare yourself and your household right now, you can handle the weeks ahead without a hitch. And if you have a male dog who senses a female in heat, you can make it through this, too. It takes a little know-how, ingenuity, and willingness on your part. Male or female, your GSD will make it through this heat cycle—and any in the future—happy and healthy because of the steps you took today to prepare. I knew I needed to learn more about owning a female dog. So, if I decide not to spay her, then how often will she come into heat. After owning my first female German Shepherd. I was not sure when she would have her first heat. After doing some research this is what I discovered. Normally female German Shepherd will have their first heat cycle 6 months to 12 months of age. My second female German Shepherd Connie had her first heat cycle when she was 9 months, depending on each individual German Shepherd it could be different. Female German Shepherd will have their heat cycle twice a year. It normally runs every six months. If you are worried then, I would recommend talking with your veterinarian about It. You want to be sure your girl is healthy. How long does a female german shepherd stay in heat? When I decided to breed my female German Shepherd Val. Being a new GSD owner, I was curious too how long she will be in heat, and how long the full heat cycle would last. This is what I learned. The average heat cycle stages about 21 days and total, depending on each individual German Shepherd it could be different. How long do German shepherds in heat bleed for? My female Princess I will tell you this. But most of the time you will see bleeding will last 9 days, but I have witnessed up to 14 days with my female princess. Now, this is just my experience with my own dogs. German Shepherd mating age and Information: How old does a German shepherd need to be to breed? When I bred my first female German Shepherd, I did not breed her before she had her third season. After talking to the Breeder that I purchased my dog from, he told me to wait until your dog has had her fourth season before you breed her, but she should be three years old or older before she is bred. How long is the pregnancy of a German shepherd? With my own experience after breeding multiple German Shepherd litters. Most good breeders will get to confirm locks together with the female and the male. The normal gestation period in dogs is approximately 64 days from conception, although this can vary by several days from the time of the second mating. When should I get my german shepherd spayed? Spay or Neuter German Shepherds: There are many different opinions on this topic. As a new German Shepherd owner, we all have some questions. After talking to different German Shepherd owners, Some veterinarian says 6 months to 12 months, and others will say wait until they are two years. When I, ask my breed this question? My professional breeder told me not to spay or neuter at all. If you do decide wait until after 24 months because all German Shepherds Will fully start to develop at 24 months of age and up to 36 months before they are fully mature. Now I know different German Shepherd owners that have male German Shepherds that did neuter them after 2 years old, and they do not have any problems with them at all, and the same for females owners I have talked with too. My female dogs are not spayed, and my male dog is not neutered. How long does it take for a German Shepherd dog to recover from being neutered? My Male Buddy This is a very popular question for new dog owners. The average time it takes a dog to recover from being neutered, is 7 to 10 days. In the time of that 7 to 10 days. You need to keep your puppy or older dog calm. No jumping overexercising. Just leash walking is recommended only until your dog is fully recovered. How much does it cost to spay a female German Shepherd dog? Typically costs can vary: Some people choose to use their local veterinarian and others choose to use a low-cost Clinic. I know my veterinarian charges to .The cost to do a more complicated surgery can usually range from and up to on the higher end. Whatever you decide I wish you the best of luck! About the author: Dennis is the founder of German Shepherd Behavior. I have owned this breed for over 25 years and looking forward to sharing my German Shepherd journey with you. If anything, that part of the heat cycle is the tip of the iceberg! Proestrus stage The first stage of a heat cycle is known as the proestrus stage. This can last anywhere between days, with most dogs averaging about a week. The signs of a dog entering her proestrus stage are: Bloody discharge Your dog will spend a lot more time licking herself than usual. Keep an eye out for this, and look for any telltale signs of bloody discharge on your floor, bedding, or pillows. The discharge will usually look like a bright red color, but most of the time your dog will be cleaning it away. As soon as you notice your dog licking herself and when you see bloody discharge, this is when the heat cycle has begun. For your peace of mind and to have a general idea of how long her heat cycle will be, mark this in your calendar. Enlarged vulva The quickest way to tell if your dog has entered her heat cycle is to look at the size of her vulva. If her vulva looks swollen and larger than usual, this is a clear sign of the heat cycle beginning. In some cases, her teats might swell and her lower abdomen might darken in color. Also — frequent urination is a common symptom during this stage. Tail tucking The proestrus stage is where the dog will feel most insecure about herself. Your dog will begin to tuck her tail around her behind, wrapping it close to her vulva. This is because she is not yet ready for male suitors who might be taking a fancy to her as they smell her from across the park. Change in behavior The dog will be feeling very sorry for herself at this point. She will become clingy, quiet, confused, nervous, or aloof. Estrus stage This stage is when the actual heat cycle properly begins. Most people will refer to this part as the only stage of the heat cycle, but it is equally important to be aware of the first, third, and fourth stages to prepare yourself for the estrus stage. The estrus stage typically lasts between days and indicates that your dog is fertile and ready to procreate. The common signs of this stage include: Change in discharge color The bloody discharge in the proestrus stage will turn to a straw-colored, or even clear, discharge. The change in discharge color usually occurs around the ninth day of the cycle. Instead, it will return to its regular position. However, in most cases, her tail might turn slightly upright. This is usually an indication of playfulness and, in dog terms, flirting. After all, her tail is no longer shielding her vulva. She will get very creative during this stage. The dog is fully aware of the scent that she is leaving for male suitors, and her heightened senses can smell her potential lovers from a mile off almost. She will become suddenly very interested in male dogs, which is why it is essential to keep an eye on her during this time. Your dog might still have a loss of appetite or may lose her appetite at this stage. It winds them up, and some male dogs can be more prone to biting when they have been wound up this much. Make sure to plan the breeding stage properly so the cough deed is done in a safe and controlled environment. Diestrus stage After all the excitement of the estrus stage, she will enter a day period called the diestrus stage. She will sort of return to similar symptoms of the proestrus stage at this point, where the straw-colored discharge will turn red once again, and she will tuck her tail around her vulva. She will still carry the scent of the heat, so keep an eye out for male suitors. Her fertility window is over, move on! Anestrus stage The final stage indicates when the heat cycle is, at last, over. This is called the anestrus stage, and generally lasts between days until she will enter the proestrus stage again. So, how long does the heat cycle last? The main stage of the heat cycle, as in when she is fertile and ready to mate, usually lasts around days. However, the entire cycle lasts up to 6 months. It all varies from dog to dog. Small dogs are more likely to go into heat twice a year, while large breeds like German Shepherds might only go into heat once a year. This is completely normal and purely due to the size of the animal. We know how important it is to understand how the heat cycle works and how to care for your pooch during this time. Here is the ultimate care guide to German Shepherds in heat! Unlike a human menstrual cycle that lasts between days, a dog will be in heat for around weeks. The whole cycle itself is a long and drawn-out process that only occurs twice a year. In most cases, a female dog can enter her first heat cycle at months old. Some might even be a year old before they are first in heat. It mostly depends on the size of the dog, as some will inevitably be much larger than others. They will enter their first heat cycle when they reach sexual maturity. When a dog has been spayed, her reproductive organs have been removed, so she can no longer reproduce, which stops the heat cycle forever. What about German Shepherds in heat? Like every other female unspayed dog, German Shepherds will all go through their heat cycle. The only difference is that due to their size, this large breed is likely to have to wait a bit longer for their first heat cycle to arrive. It is always recommended to keep an eye on your female German Shepherd for signs of the estrus cycle from when she reaches 4 months old. This is purely due to the size of the dog and is nothing to worry about. Mother Nature works in weird ways. Especially as German Shepherds are such large dogs, the time between cycles is mostly unpredictable. Some dogs might have a streak of cycles over a couple of years that are very regular, like clockwork. Others will go into heat randomly. Generally speaking, your dog will develop some sort of regularity with her heat cycles when she is around 4 or 5 years old. What happens when my dog gets old? She will go in and out of the heat for the rest of her life. The only difference is, that any form of regularity with previous heat cycles will go out of the window. Forget everything you thought you knew about how long each cycle lasts. After around 6 years, your German Shepherd is likely to have shorter heat cycles. This is especially the case if she has been pregnant before. As with all mammals, female dogs will become less fertile as they age. Can male German Shepherds go into heat? Male German Shepherds do not have a uterus, therefore they cannot physically go into heat. Instead, they are sexually active and ready to go all year round. Alright for some. This is purely because they can smell her cycle in a way that we cannot, and it causes them to want to mate and breed. They will go through some behavioral changes — especially if they live with a female unspayed dog — such as cheekiness, agitation, or even aggression. These are big and strong dogs, after all. This is why a lot of German Shepherd owners will opt to spay their female if they own both a male and a female dog. This scent can linger, and German Shepherds are notorious for their heightened and impeccable senses. Once the male dog can no longer smell the heat, he will immediately go back to his usual self. The next step is taking the necessary precautions to take care of your German Shepherd while she is in heat. Let Mother Nature do her thing Fortunately for you, you mostly just have to leave your dog to do whatever she needs to do. From the moment she has her first heat cycle, her natural instincts will set in immediately. It might seem a bit inhumane, especially if you have a uterus yourself, and you can empathize with the potential discomfort your dog is going through. During her heat cycle, a female dog will become increasingly clingy and overly affectionate. This is because her estrogen levels are rising, and she might be feeling some discomfort from the bloody discharge. The best thing you can do for your German Shepherd who is in heat is to give her all the love in the world. Some dogs might be aloof and dismissive, which is totally understandable. But for those who cling to their humans, you have to comfort her along this journey. This is especially the case for dogs who are going through their first heat cycle at a young age. Speak only with a gentle voice to let her know that nothing is wrong. You should expect to see bloody discharge on your floor, cushions, bedding, and clothes for the next couple of weeks. Instead, there are some ways to prevent stains from appearing. The easiest way to protect your furniture is to place old towels everywhere. The same goes for her dog bedding or if she likes to sleep in your bed. For extra protection, look to invest in some reusable dog period pants. These are basically washable fabrics that can catch bloody discharge similar to human diapers or sanitary towels. Not only will it protect your furniture and belongings from bloodstains, but the period pants can act as a diaper for excessive urination. While there are disposable dog period pants available, we recommend buying reusable washable ones for the benefit of the environment. When your dog enters the estrus stage and is ready to mate, she will simply find a way to rip the period pants off her body. Nothing will stop her! However, when your female German Shepherd is in heat, it is wise to keep her on a leash at all times. Remember, nothing will stop both male and female dogs from attempting to mate when she is in her heat cycle. German Shepherds might not be small dogs that can squeeze through fences, but they can certainly fight their way through to get what they want. Isolate the dog If your dog is no longer clingy and affectionate, and instead is more interested in mating with males, you might want to consider isolating her in another room. This might seem cruel, but keeping her away from other dogs is the best way to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Keeping her separate from other dogs during this time is a good idea. You can keep her in a crate overnight if you want to control where she bleeds while you are asleep. However, make sure to only keep her in this crate at night, otherwise, she might think you are punishing her. The vet will be able to reassure you that her heat cycle is totally normal, and will probably give you tips on how to deal with it. They can also discuss the option of spaying in the future if you are tired of dealing with her heat cycle. Spaying is a surgical procedure that involves removing the reproductive organs from the dog, which means she will no longer be able to have puppies or go into heat. This is a common procedure that vets are experts in, and saves dog owners from a lot of future stresses and anxieties about unwanted pregnancies. If you have a male dog, you might want to read this section to get an idea of how to deal with him as his mating instincts are on high alert. Keep him away This seems obvious, but try to keep your male German Shepherd away from dogs in heat. This means that you should look to separate your male and female dogs in different rooms. These are large breeds, which means that it can be hard to pull them apart when they are attempting to mate. Also — remember to never disrupt the dogs while they are locked! Leave them alone. Not only will keeping your male dog away prevent unwanted pregnancies, but male dogs can get aggressive when they know a female is in heat. They can become very protective over the female and will often growl, snarl, bark, or bite at other potential male suitors. In the same way as a female dog, you can always keep your male dog in a crate overnight. Just make sure not to put them in the crate sporadically during the day, as they might think they are being punished for something they cannot control. Go to the vet Each dog will react differently to a female in heat, so you can always take both him and your questions to the vet. This is a good idea if your dog acts aggressively when a female is in heat. Your vet will tell you to distance the dog, and they might even give you some herbal remedies to distract the dog from smelling the scent of the heat. Some herbal tinctures are designed to sedate dogs, which will calm down their aggression. Distract him You have to try and keep your male dog preoccupied when he is near a dog in heat. This means that you should put him on a leash if a fellow dog owner says that their dog is in heat, or you can throw him a ball to distract him. The same goes for if you have a male and female dog in your home. This is especially important during the proestrus stage. Some friends or family might be able to take care of your male dog for a couple of weeks, which means you can still visit him frequently. Conclusion So, there you have it! The ultimate guide to caring for a German Shepherd in heat. Most of the time, you just have to allow Mother Nature to do her thing as your dog deals with it naturally. Still, there are some great ways to make her heat cycle easier for everyone involved — including the female dog in question, male dogs, and humans. Hopefully, this guide has given you some peace of mind as your pooch enters her next heat cycle! Vulva begins to swell and your dog begins to bleed. Bleeding may reduce or stop. Your dog is ready to mate during this time. About 2 months Previous symptoms are gone and the body is preparing for the next heat cycle. About 4 months Stage 1: Proestrus is the first stage that most owners start noticing the vulva begins to swell and your dog begins to bleed. This stage lasts for an average of 9 days, but can range anywhere from days. Stage 2: Estrus is the stage when the female is receptive to the male. The vulva is enlarged but softens a little. This stage will last for 5 to 10 days. The fertile period occurs during this time. Stage 3: Destrus is the stage where the female is no longer receptive to the male. This stage lasts for about 2 months. Stage 4: Anestrus is the stage where the body allows the uterus to prepare for the next heat cycle. This stage will last for about 4 months. Each stage has differing signs related to behavior, physical or clinical changes, hormonal changes, physiologic changes, and cytologic vaginal smear changes. When does an intact female German Shepherd start her first heat cycle? German Shepherds are large dogs. This means they are more likely to wait a bit longer to have their first heat. Female German Shepherds might go into their first heat as young as 6 to 12 months of age. The smaller the breed the earlier they get into their first heat. How long does the first heat cycle last in German Shepherds? Heat usually lasts between weeks. Early in the cycle, a female dog may not be receptive to male dogs, although some are receptive through the entire cycle. How long does a German Shepherd bleed in the first heat? A dog in heat can bleed for the first 7 to 10 days. The bleeding reduces around the day mark. How often does a female German Shepherd go into heat? An intact female dog usually goes into heat about every six months. Younger and older dogs tend to have a more irregular heat cycle. Many larger breeds, such as Great Danes , will have delayed starts and longer periods between each heat cycle. Since German Shepherds are large dogs, you may only see one heat cycle a year. How do you know if a female dog is in heat? Sometimes, these signs are not apparent even when a dog is in heat. Her vulva will be swollen and noticeably red. You may also see her licking its genital area as a result. They will have a very short heat then stop. And a month or so later there will be another short one. How will female dogs behave differently if she goes into heat? Change in appetite: Your dog may suddenly become pickier in its eating habits. Licking of her genital area: Your dog might be licking her genital area more to clean up any discharge. Rubbing her rear end : Your female might lift her tail to rub her rear end against various objects, such as a wall or fencing. Lack of energy: Some dogs become less energetic as they go into heat. If your dog seems unusually tired, or not as interested in playing with you, it could be a sign they are beginning their heat cycle. More Irritable with other dogs: As their hormone levels change, you might see your dog become less tolerant of other dogs or even cats in the house. Sometimes might see aggressive behaviors toward both female and male dogs. Desire to escape and seek a mate: The hormone change will drive her to follow her instincts in seeking out a male to mate with. She might even try to escape your home or yard to check out what options are nearby. Flirtatious behavior: Once a female dog enters the estrus phase of her cycle, she is receptive to the attention of male dogs and might seek it out. She might start to present her rear and flag her tail to one side when around male dogs. Create a safe space for your dog to rest With all the hormonal changes, she might want to seek out a quiet place to be alone. You can make this area comfortable by including a mat which can be especially useful for thick or long-coated dogs. Playing soft music may comfort your dog. Plugging in a pheromone diffuser like this one by Adaptil near their safe space may help her to calm down. Of course, have plenty of interactive dog toys and chews for her. You can purchase disposable dog diapers or invest in a washable cloth diaper to use with disposable liners. You can place a disposable dog maxi pad inside of the diaper during heavier flow to reduce the frequency of laundering the cloth diaper. Manage dog-dog interactions in your home If you have a multi-dog household, you might notice a shift in dynamics between your dogs. Your female dog in heat might be on the grumpy side and overreact when approached by a dog housemate. Supervise interactions between your dogs to make sure that they are being respectful of each other. Use baby gates to provide separate safe areas for each of them. If you have an intact male in the home, they should always be kept separate from a female in heat to prevent mating. Even when kept separate, your intact male will become stressed as they can still smell a female in season and might go to great lengths in efforts to get to her. Even if your male dog is neutered, he might still pester your female dog — supervise and separate as needed. Stay away from dog park and keep your female dog on a leash when going outside Female dogs approaching their heat cycle can attract both neutered and intact dogs close and far. This can cause her undue stress as she seeks to avoid attention from other dogs. It might also trigger a fight between other dogs as they compete for her attention. Your best bet is to keep your intact female dog in a closed yard. And if you have to take her outside, always put her on a leash to prevent accidental mating and unplanned pregnancy. Climbing over or digging under a fence is worth the effort for them as they follow their instincts to mate. Bottom line: Be extra kind and gentle When a female German Shepherd goes into heat, it can be a time of stress, restlessness, and frustration for her as well as everyone including other animals in the house. If you prepare yourself and your household, and know how to take care of your dog, you will know exactly what to do to make it through. Never scold your pup if she happens to make a bloody mess, just calmly reassure her while you clean it up. Make sure to watch her closely and give her some extra love and attention. More on German Shepherd Health and Care.

Love to be with their human Degenerative Myelopathy clear The breed and these pups are pretty amazing because they are very versatile and can be easily trained to do most anything. German Shepherds are very faithful dogs and can be trained in competitive, obedience, drug detection, search and rescue, they can help with the handicapped, police and military service or just be incredible companions you can't live without. Currently, we have no puppies on the ground but expect to have a new litter soon. They have great drive, will make great family pets or sporting dogs. She is very friendly and always looking for a fetch partner. All of the puppies are incredibly smart with high drive. Believe me it makes a tremendous difference as the training is easier and less costly and you end up with an amazing dog. Max is a very good-natured male and is excellent around people and other dogs. He is very intelligent, obedient and was easy to train. He was known as the largest pup ever produced at the time by his breeder. He is very tall and beautiful to watch run around on our 5 acres. His male offspring regularly exceed lbs. His hips are OFA certified as "good" which is the second-highest rating given and has a much lower chance of producing pups with hip dysplasia. This is a critical factor when choosing your German Shepherd as this is part of the 2-year hip guarantee for his pups. I can't say enough about what a pleasure it is to have Max in our family, he has such a great temperament with high intelligence. His offspring make great family companions and generally likes everyone but if anyone suspicious comes around his family, he has his eye on them! This information is accepted by AKC on dogs with permanent identification tattoo, microchip and is logged in the public domain. Radio graphs of Borderline, Mild, Moderate and Severely dysplastic hip grades are reviewed by the OFA radiologist and a radio graphic report is generated documenting the abnormal findings. Max's line is known for his big bones, large paws, large head and a medium square frame. He is an awesome guard dog, however once he is introduced, he is very calm and friendly. He is very social, athletic and very intelligent. Because Max is a protection dog, he is currently being trained to bark and hold. Her parents are Schutzhund IPO3 titled and have a wonderful drive. Her OFA rating on her hips is certified as "excellent" which is rare. Mattie's had her OFA certification completed at age 4 when she got her certification. This testifies to her quality for sporting value. Mattie is the alpha female in our line of working dogs. Mattie weighs approx 70 lbs. She has a distinctive female look, yet she is very athletic and can be very protective when required. She is trained to bite on command and has an excellent full and powerful bite. This trait is passed down to her pups as well. Matties best quality is intelligence, courage, alertness and her devotion to her master. She will protect her master at all costs. She loves to ride in the truck and if the windows or cargo door are down she will fly into it giving you that look "let's go! Mattie is an excellent mother and dotes on her puppies. For the complete list please see our German Shepherd in Your Area page. In Louisiana, you will have the option of purchasing either a purebred or crossbreed dog. You should avoid purchasing from backyard breeders or pet stores because these dogs may not receive proper care and in many cases are in poor health. An excellent place to find German Shepherd puppies for sale in Louisiana is by contacting local breeders and asking about their available litters. Breeders will often make themselves available for potential buyers to visit the litter and allow them to interact with the puppies before choosing one that best fits into your family structure. Look for people who own the type of dog you are interested in and speak to them about their experiences with their breeder. You can talk with your veterinarian or contact your local kennel club for more information on breeders they recommend. Another way to find a responsible German Shepherd Breeder is to visit online message boards that are dedicated to the breed. You can pose a question about where you can find reputable breeders in your area and ask for personal recommendations. It is important to meet with the breeder before purchasing any type of dog to ensure that they are knowledgeable about their breeding practices, have taken proper steps for genetic testing, and do not keep their dogs in poor conditions. To learn more, contact local kennel clubs or veterinarians who specialize in German Shepherds for more information on finding a reputable breeder. This will allow you to see where the puppies are kept and interact with the dogs before making your final decision on which one is best for you. During your visit, look around at what kind of environment they have for their dogs. Are the dogs looked after properly? Do they receive enough space inside, or do they spend most of their time outside? A good breeder will socialize their puppies with gentle human interaction to help them become well-rounded animals. For more information on finding a reputable breeder, contact local kennel clubs and veterinarians who specialize in German Shepherds for more information. How to Find Puppy Mills And Backyard Breeders in Louisiana Unfortunately, there are all too many unethical breeders looking to make a quick buck that will sell their puppies to anyone with money. Backyard breeders do not care about genetic testing or providing an environment where dogs can grow up healthy and happy; they only care about making a profit at the expense of the animals. Many backyard breeders keep their dogs in cramped conditions without access to proper veterinary care or sanitation options. A responsible breeder will have happy customers who can speak to the quality of their puppies and the care they received from the breeder. References can be extremely valuable when it comes time to choosing a breeder, as they can give you an idea of the kind of experience you can expect when purchasing a puppy from them. Ask your potential breeder for references and then take the time to contact them. If possible, try to visit their home and meet their dogs to get a first-hand account of what life is like with them. References can also be a good place to start if you are looking for a reputable breeder in your area. Contact local kennel clubs or veterinarians who specialize in German Shepherds for more information. If they refuse, this is a major red flag and you should look for a different breeder immediately. By meeting both parents, not only will you learn more about what kind of personality traits they may exhibit, but it will also give you an idea about how large they are likely to become as adults. Be wary of any breeder who does not allow you to interact with their dogs in person. If a breeder refuses, this is a major red flag and you should look for a different breeder immediately. Good breeders will socialize their puppies with gentle human interaction to help them become well-rounded animals. You should always ask your breeder if they have a veterinarian that they work with. This means that, in the event of an emergency, the breeder will be able to contact a professional without any trouble. If you want to bring your German Shepherd puppy home and you know a good veterinarian in your area, it is a good idea to ask for their information so you can start taking him or her in as soon as possible. A responsible breeder will also keep veterinary records on all of their animals and provide them to both you and the new veterinarian upon request. Puppy mills and backyard breeders do not adhere to humane standards when breeding dogs; instead, they view them as livestock that exists solely for profit. These unethical breeders often keep their dogs in cramped and unsanitary conditions, without proper veterinary care or socialization. As a result, the puppies they produce often have temperament and health problems. Some common warning signs include: The breeder does not have any information on the parents of the puppies The breeder does not allow you to meet the parents of the puppies The breeder does not allow you to interact with the puppies in person The breeder keeps their dogs in cramped and unsanitary conditions The breeder does not provide veterinary records to new owners The breeder charges excessive prices for puppies If you encounter a breeder who exhibits any of these signs, please report them to your local animal welfare organization. Puppy mills and backyard breeders should be shut down in order to protect the welfare of the dogs involved. When looking for a German Shepherd breeder in Louisiana, it is important to keep in mind that not all breeders are created equal. Some breeders are more interested in making a profit than in providing quality puppies, while others take great care in the breeding and raising of their dogs. By following these tips, you can help ensure that you find a healthy, happy puppy. Good breeders will screen their dogs for genetic health issues and will not breed animals who are prone to developing certain diseases. If you are considering buying a German Shepherd puppy, it is important to be aware of some common health problems that these dogs can suffer from, such as hip dysplasia, bloat, and elbow dysplasia. Puppy mills and backyard breeders often do not screen their puppies for health problems, which can lead to expensive vet bills down the road. When looking for a Louisiana German Shepherd breeder, always ask about the health of the puppies. A good breeder will be happy to answer any questions you have and give you a clean bill of health for both your puppy and its parents. The following are some common items that new German Shepherd owners usually have around their house: A crate. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". 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These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Others Others Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. From its rich cultural heritage and equally rich, tasty Creole Cuisines to its lovely night life presence with the infusion of beautiful jazz and blues music, it truly is a state to consider living in. And if you already reside in the beautiful, having a loyal, friendly, and largely versatile breed like the German Shepherd as a family companion can be the icing on the cake for both you and your family. German Shepherds are arguably some of the most popular dog breeds to have in the country. If you are searching for German Shepherd puppies in Louisiana then you need a good and reputable German Shepherd breeder to work with. This article is dedicated to helping you find the right German Shepherd for you in Louisiana by providing you with a list of some really good German Shepherd breeders in the state. These are highly reputable breeders that are selected for their good breed programs, impressive dedication to the socialization and training of each puppy, and much more. We have also included their contact information to make it easier for you. They strive to breed German Shepherd dogs that make the very best in show line dogs as their main focal points in breeding are the conformation, structural soundness, and overall temperament of the German Shepherd dog. They are all about improving the breed of the German Shepherd. All their dogs are genetically sound as they are tested by Embark Genetics and proven to be free from any genetic health defect or condition that is known to affect the German Shepherd breed. They all have their yearly evaluations done to show that their hips, elbows, and eyes are in good working condition. Every German Shepherd in their care is raised in the family home alongside children and adults to help with proper socialization. They have exposed to different enrichment protocols like Puppy Culture and the Baxter and Bella training program as well as exposure to different sights and sounds to further improve socialization for the dogs. Their dogs come with lifetime breeder support, a 2 years health guarantee, a puppy starter kit containing the right puppy food samples, and AKC registration papers. Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in Louisiana? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Louisiana cost? The main factors that affect the price of your German Shepherd pup are the exact type of dog you are looking for, for example; white German Shepherd puppies in Louisiana, black German Shepherd for sale Louisiana, long haired German Shepherds for sale in Louisiana and Sable German Shepherds for sale Louisiana. Pedigree German Shepherds may also differ in price from cross breeds. Of course! Our network of German Shepherd breeders in Louisiana and beyond will work with you to arrange the perfect plan to transport your new German Shepherd for sale in Louisiana to any major airport in the US. Prefer to pick up your new family member in person? That works too. Breeders will work with your needs. How does Uptown Puppies choose their network of breeders? Uptown Puppies is committed to a higher standard of German Shepherd breeders Louisiana within our network. What makes Uptown Puppies different from other dog listings sites? With the volume of online advertisements for puppies, it's hard to know how legit Louisiana German Shepherd breeders really are. Uptown Puppies vets the breeders in our network so you can be sure that all the listings on our site are from reputable, safe and legitimate companies. Our listing pages make it easy to connect the right dog owners with the right German Shepherd breeders Louisiana. What should I watch out for on other sites? Unfortunately, the breeding world is still full of shady practices, especially online. Puppy mills that exploit and abuse German Shepherd puppies for sale in Louisiana for profit and backyard breeders who lack training and facilities are all too commonly found in other online listings. Uptown Puppies put in extra work to ensure these practices never occur within our breeder network. Can you help me find my favorite type of German Shepherd? Our puppy finder page makes it easy. How do I use the Uptown Puppies site? Use our puppy finder to find the dog of your dreams, contact the breeder though the listing and let the breeder do the rest! They will work with you to put your new little lovebug in your arms safe and sound. What should make me trust Uptown Puppies? Our expertise and strict vetting process of our breeder networks sets Uptown Puppies apart from other sites. Can German shepherds tolerate heat? German Shepherd puppies Louisiana are fine in the heat with access to shade and water. Can German Shepherds live in a city? Louisiana German Shepherd puppies for sale love mental stimulation due to their intelligence. These are adaptable dogs that do well in most environments as long as their needs are met.

You can purchase a Bull Pug puppy for sale from a reputable breeder. If you have been thinking about adopting a bull pug, then this article is for you. You should be able to spot the mistakes and potential issues that you should consider before adopting a bull pug puppy. When it comes to giving up a litter of puppies, it might be harder for dog lovers because they tend to put more importance on what is between them and their human families. Some dog lovers even know that they do not want to lose any part of their dog. They are just too eager to adopt that particular pup and get them to love them once they are within their domain. And therefore, they may not give attention to the condition of the bull pug puppies for sale at the shelter. There are many reasons why people fail to put themselves into check when it comes to adopting a dog, and they could be some of the following: The first mistake is failing to keep up with the pace of the litter. Sometimes, when there are a lot of puppies to adopt from the local dog shelter, they do not want to do anything. The litter may be neglected or not given the attention they need, and some of them may even die. Their owners are then very likely to give up on them, and this will never work out well for them and the dog. The second mistake is not doing all the necessary care to protect your puppy. You should ensure that you do not forget to provide the dogs with adequate food, housing, shelter, exercise, and even training. The last thing you want to do is forget about the puppies for sale. This can create problems for the dog and you. The third mistake when it comes to adopting bull pug puppies for sale is not searching around for the right puppy. This means that you need to search for one that is young and healthy and has not already been spayed or neutered. It is more important to adopt a puppy that is good-natured and cute than an ugly-looking one. This is because when your pug goes home, it will most likely be abused and mistreated by your family. The fourth mistake when it comes to buying a litter of puppies from the local dog shelter is to expect your puppy to love you back. It is best to adopt the bull pug puppy for sale that loves you unconditionally and would willingly do whatever you ask it to do, no matter how strange or boring the request may be. The final mistake that dog lovers can make when it comes to adopting a litter of puppies from the local dog shelter is procrastinating. You should not think that you are better off waiting until you find the perfect puppy or dog. The very best thing that you can do is take your puppy as soon as possible so that you can have the best one for you. You can visit a local breeder, buy a puppy from a pet store, or look online for a puppy for sale. You should be sure to determine how much money you are willing to spend and make sure to research all of your options before making your purchase. Once you have decided on the right breed, you can search for available puppy listings and select the one that suits your lifestyle. The Bull Pug breed is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a small dog. They are friendly with people and are not very aggressive, so you can feel safe taking them to a new home. The Pug is a highly energetic dog, so they will require at least 30 minutes of exercise a day, and they are good with being left alone for an extended period. You should ensure that you have enough time to exercise and play with your new pup. A bull pug is not the best dog for kids, but they are gentle with small children. Although bull pugs are not strong swimmers, they will need daily brushing. They will not bark at the neighbors, but they will shed a lot. A good breeder will be able to tell you more about the health of their puppies. A bull pug is an excellent choice for people who want a high-energy pet. These pups are easy to train and require very little grooming. You can start socializing with your new puppy as soon as they are old enough. This breed is friendly with children and can even interact with them. They are not hostile towards strangers. They will not attack you if you approach them, so you can focus on teaching them to interact with others. The Bull Pug is a wonderful companion dog for families. It is an excellent choice for people who want a dog with a lot of personalities. A bull pug is also very low-maintenance and does not require a lot of exercises. It can live in small apartments or a large home. But bull pugs are not the right choice for everyone. However, remember that you should never compromise on the health of your new pet. If you are not able to afford a bull pug puppy, consider adopting one from a reputable rescue center. You can be sure that it will have a healthy and happy life. The breed is very loving and loyal, and its owners will find it a great pet for any home. While it is a smaller breed, it is still very active and playful. It is an excellent choice for a family. It is a good choice for anyone who loves the company of a bull. Considering buying a Bull Pug puppy for sale? You can expect to invest a lot of time, effort, and money into your new pet. As with any dog, it is essential to know what it can eat and how much it can tolerate. English Bulldog Pug puppies are beautiful but they have serious behavioral problems. The breed can be very territorial and wary of strangers. This breed of dog is a good pet for a family. It is a great companion and makes a great family pet. It is a fun-loving and sociable dog. It can be very protective and friendly. It is an excellent choice for families who love a bouncy and energetic pet. Share this:. The Bull-Pug is dependable, sensitive and great with children. This dog strongly attaches to people, is very well-mannered, and has a sensitive nature. It is a breed that does not do well when left alone for long periods of time. The Bull-Pug relishes attention from its owner but also has a willful side. Bulldogs are known for being strong-willed, so you need to begin training as a puppy — and the best type of training for this breed is using positive reinforcement. As long as you maintain a firm and gentle hand in training, your Bull-Pug should learn quickly. Discover more about our Bull-Pug puppies for sale below! Temperament Bull-Pugs have a lot of energy as puppies but calm down a lot as they get older. They can be messy eaters: they tend to slobber and even snore, but these are traits that bulldog owners usually find endearing. The Bull-Pug will make a great family pet as they are wonderful with children and do well in apartments since they only have a moderate need for exercise. See store for details on a particular puppy. American Canine Hybrid Club.

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. We have answers. Take a look through the gorgeous pups on offer, and when you see a Charlotte French Bulldogs for sale who catches your eye, simply send their breeder a message. What kind of dog is a French Bulldog? French Bulldog puppies for sale Charlotte are fun-loving little pups who love cuddles and naps! Their front-heavy bodies sure are cute, but it does mean they have trouble swimming, so no lake trips for them! Why is this breed so expensive? The anatomy of the Frenchie means that French Bulldog breeders in Charlotte have a few challenges to overcome when breeding these little pups. The tiny pelvis of Frenchies means females need to be artificially inseminated before delivering their pups via C-section. Of course, this adds significant costs for French Bulldog breeders Charlotte, which is reflected in the higher price of this breed. Can I collect my puppy in person? You sure can! On the other hand, you might have chosen a puppy from further away. In this case, the businesses in our network are pros at organising 5-star puppy transport! We want you to find your dream French Bulldog for sale in Charlotte right here, so we only partner with businesses with French Bulldogs for sale Charlotte who we know can deliver on that promise. How do I know my new puppy will have a clean bill of health? The companies in the Uptown network withCharlotte French Bulldog puppies for sale are experienced breeders with the knowledge of how to produce top-quality pups who all have a clean bill of health. When your pup arrives home, book a follow-up appointment with your local veterinarian so they can check your pup over, too. What type of food is best for French Bulldogs? Your veterinarian will be on hand to help advise what will suit your puppy at their particular life stage. Do you sell the cheapest puppies? And breeding a healthy Charlotte French Bulldog for sale is a more expensive and labor-intensive process than for many other breeds. Our partners provide top-class service as well as, of course, only the best and healthiest Frenchie pups! What are French Bulldogs like to train? French Bulldog puppies in Charlotte are easy going little dogs, and are eager to please their owners. This makes training fun and rewarding for both of you! Positive training techniques are great for keeping them engaged and interested. Are French Bulldogs a good family dog? These affectionate pups get along with everyone, young and old. They are patient and laid-back, but also a little bit sassy! Frenchies get along well with other pets, and life will never be dull with one of these pups at your side.

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for Austin Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Austin? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Austin? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. In addition we are just two hours west of the Houston, Katy area. Also, three hours south of the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex. Our home sits on 25 acres of rolling pasture. I love that we can just open a gate to take our Golden Retrievers for a run in the field or for a swim in one of our two ponds. As a Golden Retriever breeder one of my goals has always been to produce healthy puppies. Therefore, all Golden Retrievers used in my breeding program have their hips and elbows x-rayed and then submitted to the OFA Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for a rating. All of our pedigrees have generations of health testing. Equally important to health is temperament. A properly bred Golden Retriever is a joy to live with. Goldens should get along well with other dogs and possess a willingness to please. Golden Retrievers love spending as much time as they can with people. They are always ready to fetch a tennis ball or cuddle on a couch. This is why the Golden Retriever is one of the most popular breeds for families. Reputable breeders only use Goldens with correct temperament in their breeding programs because they know that temperament is one of the most important aspects of our breed. Lastly, is the importance of Breed type and structure. Breed type are the traits that make a Golden Retriever resemble a Golden Retriever and not a Labrador Retriever or any other breed of dog. For instance, the coat of a Golden is very different from the coat of a Labrador. Likewise, the ears of a Golden Retriever are very different from those of a Doberman. Each breed recognized by the AKC has a breed standard, a description of that breed. The Golden Retriever breed standard describes what the ideal Golden Retriever should look like and behave like. Reputable breeders use the breed standard as a guide when making breeding decisions. After all, who wants to purchase a Golden Retriever who looks like an Irish Setter and acts like a Rottweiler? Structure is as important to a dogs health as clearances. For example, if a dog has weak front pasterns, a cow hocked rear, a weak topline, etc. So while it may seem unimportant to have many Champion CH dogs in the pedigree of your puppy, those CH dogs would most likely not have earned that title if they were not structurally sound. Structural soundness is important for all living beings. I hope that you enjoy your visit to our site and find some of the information presented here helpful. He's our third Golden and is the king of our home. He has a larger than life personality and keeps us on our toes. Active, smart, playful, loving and funny all rolled into one handsome boy. He is everything a Golden should be. We couldn't imagine life without him and love him more every day. He's the most gentle, friendly and affectionate guy! The perfect addition for a family with young children.Sue was great to work with. She brings knowledge and expertise about the breed and has earned her positive reputation. You can easily tell that she genuinely loves each and every puppy. They are treated with loving care in her home. From the first week with our family, Memphis has been going to work with his momma. What started as a way for Memphis to be socialized and cared for during the day soon progressed to his becoming a member of the team. Nowadays, when he goes to work, he welcomes all of the employees and clients to the company. He makes the rounds throughout the day to make sure everyone pays sufficient attention to him. When not hard at work, he is looking after his person. He helps wake her up and get her ready for school in the morning. He also makes sure she is never alone at bedtime. And of course, he always makes sure she has a playmate. But every busy dog also needs downtime. In all seriousness, Yellow Rose and Susan are amazing. When we first reached out to Susan, she welcomed us into her home so that we could meet her dogs and see where she raises and works with them. It was clear from the start that she is not simply a breeder. She clearly loves each of her babies as they are part of her family. The level of attention she gives to them is beyond compare and it shows in the process she uses for finding families for her puppies. With her application process and the puppy selection process, we felt confident that she would select the right puppy for us. And we were right. Memphis has been a wonderful addition to our family. He loves playing with our daughter, whether she is laying on him while reading a book or running around the yard playing ball. He loves to go on 5-mile walks with his momma or sleep on the couch and watch a movie with his daddy. He is a perfect match for our family. We would like to thank Susan for being such a thoughtful and caring breeder. The time and attention she gives to her dogs and her puppies is evident in everything she does. We recommend her and her dogs to everyone wanting a wonderful golden as part of their family. Jay and Santana Susan exhibits the finest qualities all responsible canine parents should seek out. She leaves nothing to chance with regard to her puppies health, wellbeing and placement. The amount of dedication Susan displays before, during and after a puppies placement is admirable.

The last thing you want to do is put a puppy in a home that isn't ready to take care of it. A puppy will need to be housebroken, trained , and exercised. If you plan to buy a puppy for a child, be sure to speak to their parents. Are you okay with grooming it regularly? Do you have enough space for a big dog or would a small or medium dog work best? Animal shelters can be great sources of both mixed-breed and pure-breed dogs. If you are looking for a specific breed, call ahead. Pet stores often get their animals from what are known as puppy mills. Puppy mills also called puppy farms treat their animals poorly and take advantage of their dogs, and their puppies are often unhealthy. A great place to start is to ask your vet or local humane society for recommendations. Their kennels should be spacious and clean. Breeds only a few types of dogs and is knowledgeable about those breeds. Provides you with a written contract and health guarantee for your puppy. Alternatively, you can make a handmade IUO. You can include a stuffed animal puppy with your gift certificate or IOU. Consider bringing in a foster dog instead. Your recipient will be able to learn the responsibilities of animal adoption. If they fall in love with the dog, awesome job! If they don't fall in love with the pup, that's okay! Fostering is just a temporary home. What is a Christmas Eve Box? Time to start planning the perfect Christmas for your dog. A dog Christmas box is the ultimate way to get your pooch feeling festive - without requiring a bath - and provides an excellent opportunity to spoil your beloved pup. But what exactly is a Christmas Eve box and what on earth do you put in one? A Christmas Eve box is usually filled with little gifts like chocolate, PJs, games, and books. Originally inspired by the German tradition of opening presents the night before Christmas day, Brits have co-opted the custom and now regularly present each other with a box of goodies the night before. If you, like us, are devoted to your dog, you might want to consider brightening up their Christmas Eve with a dog Christmas box. The limitations are obvious - how exactly does one communicate to a beloved pup that the festive season is upon them? An embarrassment of riches is our suggestion. Not one chew , but two. A ridiculously soft new bed. The squeakier the toy , the better. Pair of antlers? Why on earth not? The Pet Brands gnome dog toy is, first and foremost, a gnome. That alone should secure its place in your shopping basket. Planning a long, post-Christmas dinner walk? The Sports Pet launch toy will help you to throw the ball far, giving your pooch longer distances to run and adding to the fun. The complete kit consists of a launcher designed to prevent any uncomfortable twisting, an official high-bounce ball and a premium carrying sleeve for tidy storage. Everyone deserves a tasty treat over the holidays, including the dog. Not that the dog needs to know any of that. Whack a bow on it, et voila! Practical Dog Christmas Eve Box Ideas Did your mum ever wrap stuff up that was more of a practical necessity than a present? Stuff like shower gel, socks, flannels? Dogs need practical presents, too. With the new year comes January, and the likelihood of daily rainy walks. The Joules raincoat is a brilliant, water-resistant, lightweight, lined raincoat for dogs -perfect for those wintery walks. A firm rubber base means it doesn't slide around and it can contain up to ml, which is sufficient for even the largest dogs. Explore our range today to curate the perfect poochy Christmas Eve box. Not one chew, but two. The squeakier the toy, the better. The complete kit consists of a launcher designed to prevent any uncomfortable twisting, an official high bounce ball and a premium carrying sleeve for tidy storage. Plus, be sure to check out the videos below of real parents surprising their kids with puppies. Puppies can be a lot of fun for children, but they need someone to take care of them, and that person should be someone who is responsible. Hide the puppy in a room that the child frequently visits, such as their bedroom or playroom. Have a family member or friend bring the puppy over, disguised as an unrelated item e. Take the child to the animal shelter and have them choose their own puppy. Bring home a puppy-shaped balloon that contains all of the details about getting a real puppy breed, size, etc. Wrap up some essential items such as bedding, food, and toys and announce they are getting a puppy. Create a scavenger hunt around your house with clues leading to their new pup! Taking the child for a walk and coming across a puppy along the way. Asking the child to help you with a chore, such as taking out the trash, and then rewarding them with a puppy at the end. Have a family member or friend bring over their puppy for a visit and then ask if the child can keep it. Buying the child a stuffed animal that looks like a puppy and telling them it is their new pet. Planting flowers with the child and finding a puppy hiding among the flowers when they are done. Bring the puppy along on a special outing or trip and reveal the puppy to your child when they get in the car. Here are three compilation video ideas from real parents surprising their kids with a puppy. Enjoy watching these! If you need help choosing a dog breed, check out this questionnaire that can help you decide which breed is for you on the American Kennel Club website: Dog Breed Selector. If you have other pets, make sure to choose a breed that is compatible with them. If your child has allergies, be sure to choose a hypoallergenic breed. And if you have small children, be sure to choose a calm and patient breed that will do well around kids. Start by letting your child meet the puppy outside of the house or in another room before bringing him or her into the home. Once the puppy is comfortable with your child, you can begin allowing him or her more time inside the house. Now, this can be tricky because, obviously, your goal is to surprise your child, so I would do the surprise and then start this step. Be sure to have plenty of cleaning supplies on hand, and be prepared to vacuum and mop frequently. You should also expect accidents indoors and be sure to have plenty of potty pads or newspapers available. This includes teaching basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, down, and more. You can enroll in a training class or read books and online articles about how to train your puppy effectively. Check out Dr. Exercise Is Essential Puppies need plenty of exercise in order to stay healthy and happy, so be prepared to take yours on walks or runs several times per day. And if you have an energetic child, consider getting a high-energy breed that will enjoy playing fetch and other games together. With Pictures 7. Choose a food that is specifically designed for puppies and make sure to follow the recommended feeding schedule on the package. Avoid giving your puppy table scraps as this can lead to obesity and other health problems down the road. This is a big step and one that should not be taken lightly. Be sure to check out these tips on how to train a puppy so they can become the best pet ever! He has been raising Bella the Boston since .He resides in Kansas with his wife, daughter, and Bella. His favorite activities are hanging out with family, traveling, running but has bad knees , and reading non-fiction books. Recent Posts. Whichever you choose, use the label to indicate on your shoebox whether it was packed for a boy or girl and which age category: 2—4, 5—9, or 10—.Or download and print our list of suggested gifts. The pastor of the church who delivers your shoebox gift. Their community to be transformed by the Gospel. For easiest processing, you can give online through our Label Options or Ways to Give pages, or by mailing a check in the postage-paid envelope available in our print brochure. If you use an online option on the Labels page, you can Follow Your Box and discover the destination of your gift. Many shoebox recipients are also invited to participate in The Greatest Journey , our follow-up discipleship course where they learn to know, grow in, and share Jesus Christ. Through 12 exciting lessons, the boys and girls often become young evangelists who tell their friends and family all they are learning. These people, in turn, spread this news to still others. This dynamic process of evangelism and discipleship is multiplying churches even to the ends of the earth! Stories of Shoebox Recipients.

The cost of a Labrador Retriever puppy can vary significantly, depending on where you get your dog. If you decide to adopt a dog instead of buying a puppy from a breeder, you may get your dog for free or only be looking at a couple of hundred dollars, which will offset the rescue costs. These dogs are extremely popular, being the most registered dog in America and England since , and thus finding a Labrador Retriever to call your own is not a challenging task. A beautiful black Labrador Retriever dog Should you buy a Lab puppy or an older dog? There are pros and cons to buying both puppies and older Lab dogs. Labrador puppies are more expensive and require more vaccinations initially; however, older Labradors may have health issues or require intensive training to iron out negative habits. They are some of the cutest in the doggie kingdom. A Labrador Retriever is a large dog and this is going to cost more in the long run, than say, buying a Chihuahua. Large breed dogs like Labradors eat a lot, and this expense can be pretty significant, depending on the brand of dog food you buy. For instance, a Labrador Puppy will consume around pounds of dry puppy food a year, whereas an adult Lab will eat about pounds of food each year. That said, be sure not to overfeed your Labrador Retriever, as these food-obsessed dogs are prone to developing obesity. Dogs that are bred to be show or field-quality dogs can be significantly more expensive. How to find a reputable Labrador breeder and avoid puppy mills Be very wary of Lab puppy mills and backyard breeders when looking for your new dog. These parent dogs are often not health screened and sometimes live in very poor environments where their sole purpose is to have more and more puppies. To this end, a Labrador dog that is too cheap should be seen as a red flag. A breeder who generally cares for their pet will undoubtedly charge more, but then you have peace of mind knowing that the parent dogs are happy and healthy and well looked after. These fees often already include spaying or neutering costs, vaccinations, and microchipping. These include the following: Two adorable yellow Labrador Retriever puppies staying warm 1. Age Generally, the older the dog, the cheaper the initial purchase price. Young eight-week-old Lab puppies are going to be the most expensive choice. The double coat of the Labrador Retrievers comes in three main colors, namely chocolate brown , black, and yellow Labrador which is a creamy color. Black Labradors are generally the most expensive of the three. Silver Labradors are also a possibility but are pretty rare and also costly. Read our article here to learn more about Labrador Retriever colors. Purebred or mixed Labrador Retrievers are commonly mixed with other breeds to create interesting crosses like the Borador , Bassador , and Boxador. Mix breed dogs are generally less expensive than purebred Lab puppies and have fewer health issues, so they can also be cheaper in the long run. Parents that are champion or show quality dogs are going to produce more expensive puppies. Labrador dogs that have been specifically trained for specific roles like service dogs, guide dogs, and search and rescue dogs will also be more expensive than those destined for a life of leisure as the family pet. Labrador type Did you know there are two types of purebred Labradors? The most common pet Labrador is the American version, whereas English Labs are more common amongst show dogs. American Labradors are generally more athletic compared to the fluffy, broad-chested English Labs. Labrador puppies registered with the AKC are more expensive. Gender Female Labrador dogs will typically cost more than male Labs because they have breeding potential. That said, dogs that have already been spayed or neutered and are not bred for subsequent litters should cost around the same. These should include screenings for hip and elbow dysplasia as well as progressive retinal atrophy PRA. A DNA test for exercise-induced collapse is also sometimes performed. In addition, most reputable breeders will bear the costs of the first worming and vaccinations as well as tick and flea treatments and microchipping your pet. As mentioned, Labs are one of the most popular dog breeds, and being so in demand can push the price of puppies up, especially if you only have limited breeders where you live. Training and socialization Some breeders take the time to train and socialize their Lab puppies. There are grooming, exercise, food, training, and health care costs to consider. Vet expenses are one of the most significant cost considerations. These include regular vet checkups, vaccines, deworming, spaying or neutering, and attending to any health issues that may arise. Some common health concerns with this dog breed include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, ear infections, and eye problems. It is a good idea to add pet health insurance into your budget as this will help pay for any emergency medical treatment or health problems should the need arise. Seven yellow Labrador Retriever puppies indulging on their meal A quick search on Amazon will yield thousands of Labrador dog food options to choose from with various price tags. Be sure to check out our article on the best dog foods for Labs to help make your selection. Professional groomers will usually bathe and shampoo your Lab dog and also clean the teeth and the ears. Introductory obedience group sessions can be a good idea to socialize your puppy and learn a few basic skills. Another cost is a dog license. Two newborn Lab puppies getting as much sleep as they can There are some essential things you need to take into consideration before getting a Labrador puppy. Do you have the right space for your Labrador Retriever? Labrador Retrievers are big dogs that need space. They will need a house with a yard where they can expel their excess energy. Do you have time for your Lab dog? Labs are not couch potatoes, especially when they are puppies. These dogs require active owners who can dedicate time to exercise and play with them. They need to be walked at least once a day and may also enjoy a good swim. Can you afford a Labrador dog? As mentioned, the cost of buying a Labrador dog is just the first step. There are many other factors to consider to keep your pet healthy and well-looked after. You need to keep these in mind when asking yourself if you can afford a pet. Will a Labrador suit your lifestyle? Also, if you like a clean house, then a Labrador Retriever is not the best dog for you. These messy pups like to swim, and they shed a lot. A new Lab puppy is also likely to make a mess in the house a few times while being potty trained. Will a Labrador Retriever dog fit in with your family? Labrador Retrievers are known to be excellent family dogs. Just be careful with bringing a tiny puppy into a home with young kids. Labs, however, are very gentle dogs and so make excellent family pets when your kids get a bit older. What are great names for a Labrador Retriever? There are so many great dog names that you can choose for your Labrador Retriever. A good name should be easy to call and preferably just one or two syllables as it will be easier for your dog to learn. These names could include options like Max, Rover, Ace, or Buddy. Other popular Labrador Retriever names are inspired by coat colors such as night, shadow, onyx, or raven for a black Lab and sunny, blondie, goldie, or summer for a yellow lab. Conversely, chocolate Labs could go by the name Hershey, brownie, brandy, cookie, or muffin. Labrador Retrievers are some of the most loving, intelligent, and fun dogs out there. There is a reason why they are one of the most popular breeds in the world. That said, getting one of these puppies is a significant investment. If you can afford the cost of buying a Labrador Retriever and the monthly expenses that incur looking after a pet, then no doubt a Lab will be a fantastic addition to your home and possibly your most loved family member. Do you already have a Labrador Retriever at home? How much did you pay for your Labrador dog, and is there anything you wish you knew before bringing your new pet home? Be sure to let us know in the comments below. Further reading: The Cost of Popular Pooches. Since the Labrador could grow to a hefty size, its yearly upkeep still falls within the expected price range of other big dogs. Always take your puppy to regular vet checkups, even if it looks like the very picture of health. Though these things are not high on the priority list, consider them nice-to-haves once the budget allows. Besides, we all want the best for our four-legged friends, and that alone is reason enough for most of us! Boarding Kennels: This service is a lifesaver for owners who have to travel for days or weeks at a time and cannot bring their dog along with them. Professional Grooming: As we said earlier, Labrador Retrievers shed a lot, so an afternoon at the groomer will help keep your pooch looking clean and tidy. You can put off spending on these things until the budget allows. However, give some serious thought to investing in an emergency fund, as this would take a big worry off your mind in case of any unexpected trips to the vet. Though it is tempting to buy a dog from pet stores or backyard breeders because of their low puppy prices, getting Lab puppies from a reputable source is still a more responsible and ethical choice. Here is a list of responsible breeders where you can find Labrador puppies for sale: Rhumbline Retrievers — This New York-based kennel has been breeding quality Labrador Retriever puppies since , and a good number of their dogs have participated in agility, obedience, and hunting tests at the national level. Due to their commitment to only breed dogs of the highest quality, they have limited puppies for sale at a time; thus, expect a long waitlist. All their puppies are tested for genetic disorders such as elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. They raise show-quality Labs and have championship bloodline puppies as well. For a more comprehensive list of reputable Labrador Retriever breeders, take a peek at our 10 best Labrador breeders article. All their dogs are fostered and given medical care before being turned over to their new family. Based in Colorado and licensed by the Pet Animal Care Facilities, they foster and provide medical care to Labs until they can get adopted. American Lab Rescue — This organization makes use of foster homes to rehabilitate and care for their rescued dogs. For your adoption application to be approved, they will require a fenced-in yard and will also do a home visit to your place before releasing a dog. Alternatively, you can also check out our top 10 picks of Labrador Retriever Rescues and our dog adoption guide. The Labrador Retriever is popular for its great temperament and personality. Unfortunately, most people fail to expect its high energy level as well, which is why some Labs find themselves in animal shelters. That said, doing your research about the Labrador Retriever before buying or adopting a puppy is necessary to make sure that the Lab is the best dog for you. Money-Saving Tips for Labrador Retriever Owners We all want to give our dog the best life possible, and if we can do that without breaking the bank, then even better! The trick is finding the right balance on which expenses to let go of and which ones to keep. To help you achieve this, here are some money-saving tips for Labrador Retriever owners: DIY dog food and treats. Not only is this a more practical option, but this is also healthier for your dog. Practice your grooming skills. Watch a good tutorial and practice your skills on your pooch. Invest in high-quality supplies. You may want to scrimp on supplies such as food and water bowls, but investing in high-quality and durable essentials will save you more money in the long run. Training Labrador Retrievers is a fairly easy task, even for novice dog owners. A lot of great tutorials can be found on the internet, and being the intelligent dogs that they are, they will learn all their tricks in no time! Like pet insurance, regular vet visits will save you from procedures and medications that could cost thousands of dollars later. Pet quality pups are affordable and budget-friendly to most people who are looking for an intelligent and well-tempered canine companion. However, like most dogs, their lifetime cost would still require you to spend considerable money. As such, think long and hard about the commitment and financial implications of taking in a dog. These canines make great family pets, even for those looking for their first dog. So, if your budget is enough to shoulder the price and long-term costs of the Labrador Retriever, then it might just be the pooch for you! Tell us in the comment box below! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. 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. 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:. Less - The Labrador Retriever is a medium to large-sized , short-coupled, powerfully-built dog with a short, dense, water-resistant coat; small, drop ears; and a short, thick otter-like tail carried level with the back or with a slight upward curve. The length of body is equal to or only slightly longer than the height at the withers, and the distance from the elbows to the ground is equal to one-half the height at the withers. Balance, outline, intelligence, temperament and movement are of overriding importance. The Labrador Retriever is a breed of moderation, thoroughly sound, and willing and able to do its work. The Labrador Retriever is a dog without exaggeration, so light, weedy dogs; long, low-stationed dogs; and cloddy, lumbering dogs are to be equally penalized. The Labrador Retriever is an enthusiastic hunter with a good nose and a soft mouth. They excel in all performance activities. Another essential characteristic of the Labrador Retriever is the short, dense, double coat that protects the dog when retrieving from water. Labrador Retrievers are noted for their excellent temperaments. This breed is friendly, outgoing and eager to please. They are extremely intelligent and easily trained to perform a variety of complex tasks. These dogs were brought to England, probably on fishing boats. Originally black in color, the first recorded yellow Labrador appeared in a litter born in .Chocolates were also recorded at about the same time, but never achieved the same level of popularity as the blacks and yellows. Originally bred to retrieve from water, the modern Labrador Retriever has proven to be one of the most versatile breeds, excelling in hunt tests and field trials, in obedience and agility events, and also as service dogs. 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. If you were thinking about purchasing one of these wonderful pets for your home but would like to know how to find the best breeder, keep reading while we answer that question and several more to help you make an informed decision. The 7 Labrador Retriever Breeders in the United States Finding a Labrador Retriever breeder in the United States should not be difficult, and with a little research, you should be able to find one near you. The only problem you might run into is the long waiting list you might need to get on due to the high demand for this breed. Waiting lists not only increase the time you need to wait for your puppy, they can also bump up the price significantly. It will also help you find any other kind of dog just by putting in your zip code. This site can be a pain because it requires you to download a browser extension, but it is easy to use after that. Labrador Puppies Village Labrador Puppies Village will be happy to ship your pet to you, and they have a wide selection. All puppies come with a health guarantee and have a complete checkup before you purchase them. Windsor Kennels English Labs Check waddelldogbreeding. They produce several litters per year, and they have a waiting list you can get on and they will notify you when new puppies arrive. The Labrador Retriever Rescue Check humanesociety. Many people can no longer take care of their pets for one reason or another and turn to the shelter for help to rehome their pets. Some dogs will even have their vaccination shots. Adopting a puppy from a shelter also frees resources so the shelter can use them for other pets in need. Skye Labradors Skye Labradors is an authenticated breeder who has been creating puppies for more than 25 years and produces several litters per year. Tonmar Labradors Tonmar Labradors are officially sanctioned breeders that produce several litters each year using numerous queens. The current demand can produce a waiting list which might drive up costs, and if you want breeding rights, you need to pay more. If you do not get breathing rights, you will need to get the dog spayed or neutered, and it will require several vaccinations over the first few years, which will require visits to your vet. You will also need to regularly buy food, treats, and toys to keep your dog healthy and happy. We recommend asking to see the health certificate of the parents as well as the puppies to rule out any hidden issues. We recommend asking if you can see the whole litter to make sure the rest of the dogs are healthy and happier. We recommend asking if the puppies had any vaccinations and if they take deworming medication. We recommend asking the breeder about their experience breeding these dogs. Laboratory Retrievers like to run, and since they are fairly large dogs, they will need plenty of space to move around without knocking things over or getting into trouble. Labrador Retrievers are clumsy animals, and since they can weigh as much as 80 pounds, they may not be suitable to have around small children. Laboratory Retrievers have a long lifespan with many specimens lasting 15 years or more, so you need to be committed to the long haul before purchasing one of these dogs. Labrador Retrievers are intelligent animals and are easy to train once you get them into a routine and stick with it. Next on your reading list: Labany Conclusion Labrador Retrievers make great pets. They are affectionate, intelligent, and relatively healthy with long lifespans. Finding a breeder is not difficult, and there are many high-quality ones spread across the United States that can create the perfect dog for you. We recommend checking the animal shelter first because you can usually get your dog at a much lower cost, and these animals tend to be grateful and better behaved. However, there are plenty of options if there are no dogs in the shelter. Related read:. Your Labrador puppy will need a bed, collar, leash, poop bags, food bowls, food, treats, toys, grooming supplies, and a dog crate. It is important to get any dog licensed to avoid legal issues. Training Labrador Retrievers are easy to train and do not require professional training. But, some keepers choose to take their Lab to puppy school. Because they are highly motivated, Labradors also do great in agility training. This is also a great way for them to use up their energy. Owners can either build their own agility course or pay to put their dog in agility classes. Vet Fees and Insurance One of the most expensive parts of owning a dog is all the vet visits. This includes all of their shots and monthly checkups. A way to help reduce the cost of veterinary bills is through buying pet insurance. It is best to start paying for a pet insurance policy when your Labrador is a puppy. Senior dogs are more expensive to cover since they are more likely to develop health problems. Food When it comes to feeding a Labrador, they are not cheap. Labradors eat a lot of food. They are medium to large-sized dogs and weigh around 70 pounds. These prices are based on feeding a high quality kibble. Wet food can easily cost several hundred dollars more. Backyard Breeders One important thing every potential owner should remember is to avoid backyard breeders and pet shops. It is true that these places sell dogs for a much lower price. But, that does not mean they will be cheaper over their lifespan. Backyard breeders do not screen their dogs to determine if they have inheritable health problems. This results in Lab puppies being born that are more likely to develop health issues such as hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy. These breeders also do not provide proper veterinary care for their puppies. Many are sold while having worms or fleas and having received no socialization. Ethical Labrador breeders ensure their breeding stock is screened and their puppies are healthy and socialized before placing them into their new homes. Labrador Retrievers can develop diseases of the eye. The form of this disease that is very common is Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration. Caused by an inheritable genetic mutation, it ultimately leads to blindness. Screening will help to prevent you from buying a puppy that may become blind later on in life. Dogs with this disease will lose their sight between one and eight years of age. Hip and Elbow Scores Another health problem that Labradors are prone to is hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a genetic skeletal disease that causes the hip joint to not form properly. This results in the femur grinding against the hip causing deterioration and loss of function. Many Labradors with this condition end up having to undergo surgery to reduce pain and regain function in their hips. The average hip score for a Labrador retriever is 12, so any score below that is considered good. Ideally, good breeders will only breed dogs with hip scores under .This will prevent you from purchasing a Labrador puppy that will require expensive surgery later on in its life. Purpose American Labradors are best suited for active families. Families that enjoy activities such as swimming, running, and hiking. They are great for families with older children who can engage and play with them more. American Labs would also do best with owners who can dedicate more time to them because they require a lot of exercise every day. People who work from home or part time would be ideal. English Labradors would make great pets for quieter families because they have a calmer personality. They are also gentler and would do well with a family that has young children. Since they are less active, they are suitable for a busier family who has less time to exercise them. Their docile, patient attitude also makes them excellent candidates to be service dogs so they would be a great dog for people who need one in their life. Summary The price of a Labrador can vary depending on if you get one from a breeder or rescue. Its color, pedigree and health will also influence the price. All Labradors are prone to health conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy and hip or elbow dysplasia. Make sure the breeder screens for these health conditions before breeding. This will help to ensure your puppy is healthy. The cost to keep a Labrador healthy, exercised and happy can get pricey. But, if an owner has done their research and prepared themselves, then Labradors make an excellent addition. What Lab do you prefer? American, English, or mixed? Let us know! He has spent decades training working dogs and spends most of his spare time studying, reading and learning about their behavior and welfare. Outside of Marvelous Dogs, he enjoys trail running and agility work with his working Labrador Retriever. You May Also Like.

At what age is a Poodle fully grown? Poodles are considered fully grown adults at two years old and tend to show emotional signs of maturity, like a calmer nature, around 18 months. At a year old, most Poodles will have reached their final height or very close to it. However, most Poodles will require a full two years to fill out their chest and reach their final weight. Image Source: Pexels How big should a 6-month-old Poodle be? A six-month-old male Poodle will weigh around 41 to 48 pounds, while a six-month-old female Poodle will weigh about 28 to 34 pounds. Both male and female Poodles at this age stand at around 18 to 22 inches tall, which for some Poodles is already their full adult height. Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide with 39 dog care tips on pet first aid kits, puppy-proofing practices, training, veterinary appointments, and more! How much bigger will my Poodle get? There are a few ways to assess how much bigger your Poodle will get. The first is age. If your Poodle is less than a year old, they still have significant growth left! If your Poodle is between one and two years old, they are likely still filling out a bit, but are probably at their adult height. Do they still look oversized next to their legs and body? If this is the case, they are probably still filling out as this is a classic puppy feature! A Poodle puppy will rarely grow larger than their bigger parent, so this will also give you an idea of their maximum size. What is the size of a full-grown Poodle? According to the American Kennel Club Official Poodle Standards , an adult male Poodle is 60 to 70 pounds while an adult female Poodle weighs between 40 and 50 pounds. By these standards, full-grown Poodles will be over 15 inches tall when measuring from the ground to the highest point of their shoulders while standing. Most Standard Poodles will stand between 18 and 24 inches tall. Smart lifestyle choices are essential in keeping your Poodle happy and healthy. The Veterinary Centers of America recommend a long walk, jog, or intense play to fulfill their daily exercise needs. Poodles were bred as retrievers and, as such, are keen on games involving retrieving like fetch. Many Poodles also enjoy swimming. Due to their full coats, Poodles can put on excess weight without their pet parents realizing it. Poodles are not overly prone to weight issues with a balanced diet, but their coat can disguise weight changes. Their full coats also require regular upkeep like brushing and combing every other day, professional grooming every six weeks or so, and watching for potential eye problems. Poodles are prone to weeping eyes and eye irritation from lashes or hair, so keeping their eye area free of long hair is ideal. As a purebred dog breed, Poodles are more susceptible to genetic health problems. Many of these genetic health problems can be screened for early on using DNA technology. These early screenings can help you and your veterinarian prevent and minimize health complications from these genetic diseases. A bove all else, regular veterinary care is the best way to make sure your Poodle stays healthy. Between health screenings, regular veterinary care, bloodwork, x-rays , dental cleanings , and more, your veterinarian is your best resource in caring for your precious Poodle puppy. Be aware, vet visits can quickly become expensive - especially when immediate treatment or surgery is needed for an emergency or illness. With many treatments and surgeries costing thousands of dollars, this can quickly put pet parents in a pinch should the worst happen to their pet. Poodles are larger dogs, which can also increase the price of treatment. This is where pet insurance comes in. Pet insurance reimburses you for out-of-pocket veterinary costs and provides a safety net should the worst happen to your Poodle. As purebred dogs, Poodles are more prone to genetic health problems, like bloat or hip dysplasia, which can quickly become expensive to treat. Final Considerations Poodle puppies grow into elegant, proud dogs who are true aristocrats of the dog kingdom. We know how much your Poodle pup means to you and that they deserve the best! Give yourself peace of mind today when you use Pawlicy Advisor to compare personalized pet insurance quotes from the top Poodle pet insurance companies. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. The negative characteristics that male Poodles exhibit are: Trying to show dominance over other animals Tending to devote themselves to only one family member and ignore others Being rather demanding and taking up lots of attention Tending to weigh more and growing bigger than female poodles The Differences Between the Two Genders As previously discussed, there are countless differences between male and female Poodles. Males tend to be more dependent on their owners while acting more playful and friendly than girl Poodles. At the same time, girl Poodles tend to be smarter than boys and more self-reliant. Furthermore, male Poodles are more eager to please their family members and tend to act very affectionately. Girl poodles can be friendly and playful but less so than the boys. There are also differences in their size and weight. However, the height between the two genders does not really differ. The heights are nearly identical. At six months of age, a girl Poodle tends to weigh around 21 pounds, while a male poodle weighs 24 pounds. Both are at a height of about seven inches at this age. At one year of age, all Poodles reach a height of approximately 11 inches. At full growth, males and females reach about 17 inches in height. The males tend to weigh 57 pounds, while a female Poodle reaches only about 42 pounds when fully grown. Male Poodles may also favor one person in your family over others. Boy Poodles are easier to train because they love to please their owner. Girl Poodles might be more stubborn and challenging in terms of training. A Poodle puppy swims in pool. Some Poodles love water from puppyhood! Male poodles tend to get along well with other pets as well as children, as they are very playful. Boy Poodles generally do better with kids than females, which are more independent and somewhat less friendly. Nonetheless, either gender should work with kids, as both boys and girls can be playful and kind. Does Neutering Improve Poodle Behavior? Neutering a male dog or spaying a female dog does provide behavioral benefits. For instance, both boy and girl dogs are much less likely to run away from your home and begin looking to mate with other canines. Male dogs tend to hurt themselves, trying to jump over fences in order to spend time with a female in heat. By removing the testosterone hormone from your dog, the poodle is less likely to be aggressive , dominant, and stubborn. Dog bites are also much more likely to occur among unneutered dogs who are territorial. As such, neutering helps improve Poodle behavior. At the end of the day, the gender of your Poodle may not matter as much as its training and socialization. There are advantages and disadvantages to both genders, and this guide will walk you through everything that you need to know so you can decide which is best for you. Poodles are living, breathing animals, and they tend to have their own thoughts and ideas about how they should act! Even better for many people is that you can get them in so many sizes. This means you get to pick if you want a small or large dog and still get all the signature characteristics of a Poodle. Most Poodles live between 12 and 15 years, but smaller Poodles tend to live a bit longer than larger ones. Do your research and find a reputable breeder, and from there, pick out your color and the gender that you want! They also have no problem going out of their way to get your attention. Training Both male and female Poodles are easy to train, but male Poodles tend to be a bit easier. This is especially true when you consider that male Poodles tend to want to please everyone in the family. This means that once you train a Poodle, they should listen to everyone instead of just one person. Finally, male Poodles tend to be a little easier to housebreak, especially if you neuter them. But male Poodles do have lower risks for illnesses like urinary tract infections compared to female Poodles. Image Credit: Pxhere Breeding Breeding a male Poodle is easy, though under typical arrangements, the females get to keep all the puppies. Unlike females, which have a set breeding schedule, you can stud out a male Poodle as often as you can find a female in heat. Male Poodle Pros. You have done your research and found the right breeder. One question you are likely to be asked is are you looking for a male puppy or female? This could lead you to ask what is the difference between the two? Male poodles are more affectionate, playful, and easier to train due to their intense desire to please their owners. Female poodles tend to be more independent, stubborn, and willful than their male poodle counterparts. However, with poodles, it can often be the males that are more affectionate and loving and the females that are more dominant and challenging of authority. However, it is essential to spend time with any puppy to ensure its personality is right for you. Despite the regal appearance you often see in highly groomed poodles , they often have a very goofy streak. They love to play games of any kind. They are also fond of people and like to please those they have bonded to. These character traits combine to make a dog that is easily trained. It can also make them excitable. A well-trained and exercised poodle will have a calm disposition, as long as the exercise is enough to burn off the naturally high levels of energy that poodles have. It is a debate whether the smaller toy and miniature poodles are more high-strung or the larger standard size. Their high energy levels lead them to be naturally athletic. Combined with their intelligence, poodles often do well in agility competitions. Poodles are protective of home and family. They will often bark when strangers approach your house. They can be standoffish with strangers, taking a while to warm up. However, they are warm and loving with their family members. They learn fast, both good and bad habits, so it is essential to be careful about what you are training them to do. Many of these behaviors have to do with exerting dominance and marking territory. Male poodles are not different. Male poodles NEED to be neutered by age 5 months to ensure they do not engage in these typical male territorial behaviors. Male poodles are more dependent on their owners. They will often bond with one person and not the entire family. They will love the family, but they will choose one family member they prefer. They can be more sensitive to stress and are more empathetic. Because of this empathetic bond, some poodles have been trained as service dogs. Male poodles are often more affectionate, playful, and easier to train, including housebreaking. This is often due to their increased desire to please their owners. They are very attentive and can be quite demanding of attention if you do not give them enough. Many breeders prefer owning male poodles as pets and will often miss the boys from the litters after they are sold. Female Poodle Behaviors Female poodles tend to be more independent. They are cute, smart, and affectionate, but not nearly as much as a male typically. Female poodles can be more distant, typically seek less attention. They often want to be near people, but not necessarily touching them, unlike male dogs. Female dogs can also be more territorial and protective. It is vital to make sure strangers are introduced carefully. Female dogs often share their loyalty with the whole family. They are less prone to stress about significant life events, such as a new baby in the family or moving. However, they are also often more stubborn and willful. They can care less about people-pleasing if they have decided they want something. Female poodles can display alpha behaviors if they are not spayed. Some female poodles will also try and dominant their owners. They can stubbornly resist obedience training. They are often more like a friend you spend time with but are not affectionate with. Poodles as Working Dogs When you look at the smaller sizes, it may be hard to believe, but poodles were originally bred as hunters. Their innate athletic abilities come from this breeding still today. Because they are energetic, lovable, intelligent, and highly trainable, poodles have been used in a wide array of jobs, from circus performers to hunting retriever dogs. Their loyalty has led to standard poodles being used as military and police dogs. When put with other trained dogs, they are often able to learn what is expected by learning from watching the other dogs. This means they can be quickly trained in a variety of settings. Poodles have been used as service dogs for the disabled and as therapy dogs. They seem to be empathetic and can sense their owners sometimes need before the owner does. Working Male Poodles Male poodles have been many traits that can make them excellent service dogs. They do not see it as a job, but as taking care of the person they are bonded to. This can help decrease isolation and depressed mood. It will also keep the person busy and give them a purpose. Working Female Poodles Female poodles often make excellent therapy dogs because they are able to go into high-stress environments and not be overwhelmed. They often do not become stressed out like male dogs when they are around chronic illness, patients in pain, and almost any therapy job you can imagine. Because they tend to bond to groups, they can also interact better with a larger number of people than a male poodle. Choosing a Poodle Puppy When selecting a puppy, you need to not make a decision based just on the sex of the puppy, but on its personality. Taking time with the puppy while it is still with its litter can help you see how they interact with their littermates, mother, and breeder. A puppy that sits off to the side by itself is likely to be more reserved regardless of its sex, while one that bounds out to meet you is likely going to be boisterous and attention-seeking. Observe the physical condition of the entire litter, but also more closely exam the puppy you are considering. The nose should be cold and wet, but not running. The puppy should have clean ears with no odor, straight teeth, and not over or underbite. Seeing their living area can help you determine if they have been well cared for. Is the bedding clean and sanitary? Puppies that have been raised in clean environments are typically healthier and easier to potty train. This can be important if you choose a female puppy that might be more resistant to training, especially if raised in dirty living conditions. A great behavioral training course can really help your resistant poodle to potty train more easily. I found a fantastic video training system called Brain Training for Dogs. With this training, I was able to easily potty train my dog Angus. I really loved the online community where I could communicate with other dog owners to get training ideas or help with the whole training process. This is an awesome program and crazy inexpensive! Check it out here to see more detailed information. Cost of Male and Female Poodles Poodles are often one of the more expensive purebred dogs. Typically the purchase price is about the same for males and females. Females may cost slightly more if they come already spayed because the cost of spaying is often more than getting a male dog neutered. When purchasing an unaltered puppy, the cost is usually the same. Just remember to get the puppy spayed or neuter by months old to help prevent dominant behaviors. Be prepared that the spay costs will be higher. I wrote this article on why Poodles are so expensive. Children and Poodles Poodle, both males, and females can be a wonderful companions for children. Care needs to be taken with Toy Poodles as they are the smallest, most delicate variety of the breed. Children can easily break one of their bones or seriously injure them without meaning to if they are not properly supervised. Children need to be taught how to approach and interact with all dogs, but especially one that is in your home. Children should be taught to never approach a dog that is eating or sleeping. Children should never be left unsupervised with a dog, no matter how friendly. Even the nicest dog can bite if they are injured bad enough or in enough pain. Small children often do not mean to harm the dog, they just have not fully learned how to interact. Important Considerations in Choosing a Male or Female Poodle When buying a poodle, there are several things you need to consider besides just the sex of the puppy. Even though on average, males and females do show some differences in personality, they all have particular care needs. Poodles that are not properly trained will often come to believe they are the alpha dog of the family. The smaller the dog, the more likely this is will occur. By teaching your dog obedience skills and manners, you are showing them that you are the leader of the pack, the alpha dog. Remember, this is especially true of females poodles who tend to exert dominance more than males. A bored poodle creates an unhappy owner. Poodles must be kept active both physically and mentally. Obedience training, agility training, playing games can all help keep your poodle happy, healthy, and prevent them from finding destructive or mischievous ways to entertain themselves. This is true, regardless of the sex of the dog. Boys do tend to be more focused on their owners. But even the most affectionate male will get bored while you are at work. Owning a poodle is a commitment of time or money to meet their grooming needs. Most poodle owners have their dogs professionally groomed every three to six weeks. Poodles have coats that require lots of upkeep to stay beautiful and healthy. Some people learn to groom their dogs. Although this saves money, it can be very time-consuming. Poodles can have weepy eyes that resulted in stained hair surrounding their eyes and face. To help with this, their faces can be gently wiped down daily with pet wipes or a washcloth dipped in warm water. Poodles can be prone to specific health and temperament problems. Always buy your poodle, or any dog, from a reputable breeder. They will test for genetic diseases and check for temperament problems prior to putting any puppy for sale. Final Thoughts Poodles are extremely intelligent dogs that can be a great addition to any family. With proper care and training, they can add love, laughter, and fun. Males and female poodles are easy to train, protective, and enjoy interacting with people. In many ways, they are more alike than different. However, it is crucial to know the differences to make sure you purchase the right puppy for you. Male poodles tend to be more docile, affectionate, and loyal to one family member. Female poodles can exhibit more dominance, be faithful to the family, and be more stubborn. However, these statements are generalizations and not right for each specific male and female. When choosing a puppy, it is important to spend time with the puppy to truly determine its personality. Using sex can be a starting guideline, but your final decision should be based more on the individual traits of the puppy. I hope you found it helpful. Here are some products that I personally believe every owner should employ to help ensure the best quality of life for their dogs. But in all honesty, these are the exact products that I use and recommend to everyone, even my own family. Lemonade Pet Insurance : Lemonade Pet Insurance has enabled me to afford a very high level of veterinary care for my dog, Angus. Even after he was diagnosed with cancer a few years back. This program actually works, and at a small fraction of the cost of hiring a dog trainer! Pet Plate is the dog food subscription service I use to provide extremely healthy, pre-portioned meals for my dog. Pet Plate gives my dog Angus the highest quality nutrition at a very affordable price. BarkBox : Without a doubt, my dog enjoys Barkbox more than anything else I buy him. BarkBox delivers a customized box of themed toys, treats, and other products to your door each month. In addition, I like that a percentage of proceeds is donated to local animal shelters. I Purchase this service for my dog Angus and have saved hundreds of dollars over visiting his local vet with questions or more minor health concerns. Brent Hartman I'm Brent Hartman. I've been a dog lover my entire life and have owned many animals over the years. When my black lab Angus passed away, I was looking for another friend to share my life with. As a result of my research, I've come to love poodles and wanted to share some of what I've learned with you. Whether you're looking to adopt a poodle, or already own one, I created Poodle report to be the ultimate guide to help you find the answers you need. Recent Posts. There are so many factors and considerations when choosing a puppy. Here we will take a look at the differences between male and female Poodles so that you can have a better idea as to which would be right for you. There has been controversy over their origin, as they are the national breed of France, but it is believed that they actually originated in Germany. Poodles are a long-lived breed with a lifespan of 10 to 18 years. They are medium to large-sized and range from 45 to 70 pounds in weight and 15 to 24 inches in height. Poodles bond very quickly with their human companions and are known for their intense loyalty. Poodles are water dogs, so you can expect them to have an affinity for it. They will thrive on exercise, activities, and learning new things. This breed rarely acts aggressive and is typically shy around strangers. They are not as demanding as some other high-energy and intelligent breeds and tend to do well indoors if their exercise needs are met and can make great dogs for apartments or houses with smaller yards. This does not mean a male Poodle will not love and adore his whole family, he may just favor one particular person. Male Poodles are often more affectionate than females and tend to be more eager to please. Because of this, they are typically easier to train as well. You may notice that males will seek out more attention and can be a bit more demanding of it than females are. Unaltered males can develop typical male dog habits such as marking their territory, showing dominance over other males, and humping, especially if they are not well trained. If you do not plan on breeding your male Poodle, it is highly recommended you get him neutered as soon as possible to prevent these unwanted behaviors. Training Poodles are very intelligent dogs and can be very easy to train. You will see a lot of Poodles as service dogs and therapy dogs for this reason. Males can be easier to train since they are typically more eager to please. As they are highly intelligent and energetic, it is best to be consistent with training and utilize positive reinforcement. You will want to keep training interesting and reward-based as they love to stimulate their brains. Dedicating time to train your Poodle will only grow your bond stronger. This agile and graceful dog will excel in activities such as water sports, agility, tracking, and obedience. As with any breed though, some health issues can occur. In Poodles, it is not uncommon to see luxating patellas, hip dysplasia , and several eye disorders, especially in older age. Caring for male and female Poodles is pretty standard. You will want to ensure they are getting their daily exercise and remain both mentally and physically stimulated. You will either need to be experienced at grooming their coats or have a professional groomer handy. You will want to be established with a reputable veterinarian for regular health check-ups, dental care, and any issue that may turn up. Poodles will require high-quality dog food that is age-appropriate. These dogs can expend a lot of energy, especially if you plan on involving them in sports or regular activities. Image Credit: Lucas Seijo, Shutterstock Breeding Male dogs typically become fertile starting around 6 months of age and will reach full sexual maturity within 12 to 15 months. Healthy unaltered males can remain fertile and continue breeding well into old age. If you are interested in becoming a breeder, having the knowledge and education to do so is very important. Regular health checks and careful breeding to ensure top-quality dogs are vital to the breed. If you are looking to get a male Poodle as a pet, it is best to look into neutering as soon as he becomes of age. Neutering can prevent many behavioral and health problems. It is best to discuss the process with your veterinarian and be prepared for the expense. The good news is that males are much less expensive to alter than females. Pros Affectionate and eager to please Loyal and loving More prone to stress and anxiety Can exhibit unwanted behaviors related to sexual maturity Female Poodle Overview Image Credit: Tubuna, Pixabay Personality Female Poodles tend to lean more toward the independent side. They do make wonderful companions but are typically not as loving and affectionate as their male counterparts. Females can keep more of a distance and may not enjoy being touched and snuggled like a male will. Surprisingly, they can be more territorial, protective, and wary of strangers. Unlike males, they tend to share their love and loyalty with the entire family rather than just one person. You can expect your female to display alpha behaviors and assert their dominance. If there are other dogs in the home, a female Poodle will most likely see herself as the boss and will not be shy about displaying her feelings. Training As mentioned, Poodles in general are extremely intelligent and easy to train. That being said, with females you may find that they are more difficult to train than males. Their independent dispositions, stubbornness, and need for dominance can make them more of a challenge. You will need to get to know your dog well to figure out a training regiment that works for both you and her. These graceful, athletic dogs will of course respond well to positive reinforcement and consistency. Like the males, females will also thrive in agility, obedience, water sports, and many other activities. If given the proper care and nutrition, you can expect your Poodle to live anywhere from 10 to 18 years. Females are susceptible to the same genetic health conditions that males are. A proper diet and daily exercise are essential for your Poodle to thrive. Females have the same grooming needs that males do, though you may want to primp them a bit with feminine accessories as some owners enjoy doing. Breeding Female Poodles can experience their first heat cycle as young as 6 months of age. She can become pregnant as soon as she has her first heat cycle but if you plan on breeding, she should be at least 2 years old before she is bred. Some unaltered females will continue having heat cycles their entire lives, while others will have their heat cycles slow down significantly or even stop as they age. It is highly recommended to never breed a female that is older than 6 years of age. When a female is retired from breeding, she should be spayed immediately to prevent any accidental pregnancies. As with males, if you plan on having your female Poodle as a pet only, it is best to get her spayed as soon as she is of age and preferably before the first heat cycle. Spaying a female is great for their health, as older unaltered females can experience mammary tumors, female cancers, and uterine infections. If you are not a reputable breeder, spaying is the best option. Prices will vary depending on the breeder but there is generally no price difference between males and females. It is important to find a reputable Poodle breeder and avoid any backyard breeders or puppy mills for both ethical reasons and the sake of the breed. Rescuing is a great option to consider as well. You can search your area for a Poodle rescue and can get matched with the perfect dog for you. Rescues typically come fully vetted and at a much lower cost. Male Poodles tend to be more playful, lovable, and trusting. They are more likely to be better at getting along with other dogs and household pets. Because females are more independent and like to assert their dominance, they may be less likely to tolerate other pets. Regardless of sex, early socialization and training are essential for your dog. This will help ensure they know what is expected of them as your companion and can thrive in your home. Properly and cautiously introducing your dog to other dogs and animals at a young age will help interactions be much more successful. Now it is time for you to decide which sex will work best for you. As you now know, male and female Poodles have some pretty significant differences. Keep in mind that each dog is different and when you bring a puppy home, their training and socialization can truly help shape them into the dog they become. Both male and female Poodles have some wonderful traits and in the right environment, can make wonderful pets. Another interesting read:. She is an F-1 goldendoodle. This means that she is half standard poodle and half golden retriever. Ellie has matured into a big girl. She is full grown and weighs 65 lbs. Ellie is a 4th generation Powder Valley Poodles puppy. So, it is no surprise that she is very sweet, extremely calm and soft-tempered, easy to be around, and yet still playful and engaging. She gets along with everybody and everything. The feral barn cats that live on the ranch run when they see Ellie because she is so big. She looks as they run away and appears puzzled and a little upset — like the cats just hurt her feelings by running away from her. Ellie is an excellent addition to our line up of breeding girls. We are very proud of our big girl and I know it shows! She is one of the sweetest dogs I have ever met. Finn is a graceful, athletic and beautiful standard poodle from Isis and Bandit. Finn is a brown and white parti-color, weighs in at about 65 pounds and will be expecting her first litter in early .A National Champion, Finn is outgoing, confident, and capable. A bit on the serious side, she is very much like her mother, Isis, and her grandmother, Diva — who, by the way, at the age of 13 years is still a very capable working service dog for her person in Loveland, CO. Finn should produce beautiful, fluid-moving and graceful puppies in many different colors depending on the sire. There is no goofy, high-strung drama when it comes to Finn. Straight forward, no nonsense and serious about her job, whatever it is. Protecting her property, keeping her adopted feral kittens clean, cozy and well-behaved, or showing in a conformation ring. This is not the right dog for everyone. She is seriously smart. Beautiful, smart, and very capable. Charles Mizushima in Wellington, CO. As soon as she is old enough we will get her OFA — Hips. Her body size indicators are all Larger. Teddi is a very smart and very people oriented little girl. She wants to know what is going on in every corner of every acre of the ranch every minute of every day. Teddi is active without being hyper, athletic without needing to prove it every day, affectionate without being clingy and curious about everything. Eric, her guardian, has taught her numerous tricks and she greatly enjoys showing them off. Expect Teddi puppies in the fall of .She is an apricot sable toy goldendoodle. She LOVES playing with and bossing around the bigger dogs in the house and is a staunch protector and playmate to the kids. Expect little Dusty Daisy puppies in the fall of .She is a apricot with white markings abstract color and combined with Bodie, our abstract patterned 25 pound miniature goldendoodle stud, should produce some incredible baby goldendoodles averaging around 23 pounds. Look for Twinkles and Bodie babies starting in late Spring of .She is a deep red sable and weighs 11 lbs. She is am American Kennel Club registered miniature poodle. Cinnamon displays all the wonderful traits poodles are known for. She is affectionate, confident, outgoing and playful. Her deep red sable color is very attractive and her height and weight make for the PERFECT lap dog — small enough to comfortably fit yet big enough to jump on and off the furniture without help and without being fragile. She is a perfect little poodle. She is an American Kennel Club registered miniature poodle. She is a light apricot sable and weighs about 11 lbs. She is the epitome of the great little family dog. She loves being in a lap while watching tv, but she will also play for long periods with her human little brother and doggie sisters. Usually, intact female dogs do not get along very well — especially when they are in estrus in season. But, these three; Lily Ann, Dakota and Aspen, are devoted to each other. Lily Ann is not one of the dogs we would take into a show ring, but, we have plenty of gorgeous dogs. Lily Ann is the kind of dog we want to offer to families — a sweet, affectionate, loyal and tolerant little lap dog. Additionally, her coat color and coat traits DNA show the following results: Eme. More recent photo will be posted as soon as she gets a new haircut Phoenix at 6 weeks Phoenix is the beautiful standard poodle daughter of Sunny and Houston. She is a red, 45lb. American Kennel Club registered standard poodle and stands about 24 inches at the shoulder. When she fills out I imagine that she will weigh in the neighborhood of 55 lbs. But, like her mom and dad, she may not get there until the age of three or so. She is very smart, and very willing to please. In other words — a very typical Powder Valley Poodles standard poodle! Tahoe is a big girl and has an even bigger heart. She has an incredibly sweet, calm and steady temperament. As a watch dog she would bomb terribly. An absolute gem. ANY people. This is one happy girl. When life gives you lemons — play with them! Munchie babies from Vinny will be small miniatures and toys. They will come in all kinds of colors — reds, black, apricots, sable and phantom. The puppies will be playful, outgoing, curious and intuitive. These puppies from Munchie and Vinny will be wonderful, athletic and engaging companions and super affectionate lap dogs. They will be able to paddle board with you in the morning and more than happy to snuggle in for lap time and a movie that night. Expect Munchie babies by Winter, .Harper Harper is the adorable little mini goldendoodle daughter of Nilla and Robbie. She is three quarters poodle and one quarter golden retriever. Harper is a petite mini goldendoodle only weighing 16 pounds at 18 mo. Harper is athletic, playful, curious and loves everyone and everything she meets. She is our little retriever and she gets a lot of retrieving in when I sit on the couch watching tv while throwing her toys down the hallway. Silver is the gorgeous minidoodle daughter of Maya now retired and Vinny. Silver weighs 25 pounds. She is sweet, calmer than most and incredibly biddable. We plan on breeding Silver to Robbie for some incredibly smart, intuitive, sweet and trainable puppies that very well could be extremely colorful. The combination of Silver and Robbie should produce puppies with a very high genetic propensity toward being excellent service, therapy and competitive obedience dogs. Look for Silver puppies in mid .Life Span Did You Know? The Poodle is one of the oldest dog breeds and was originally developed in Germany to hunt waterfowl. The Poodle may have originated in Germany, but they are much-loved by the French. So much so that the Poodle is the national dog of France. The Miniature Poodle is slightly more recent. This Mini version likely originated in France. The Mini Poodle has all of the same characteristics as a Standard Poodle; they just come in a smaller package. The Miniature Poodle is one of the smartest dog breeds. On top of their intelligence, they are also known to have a cheerful disposition and a sensitive nature. They get along great with children. Due to their small size, they can be easily injured by rough play or accidental falls that can happen with younger children. Because of this, they may be better suited to a home with older children. Younger children should be fine as long as they are taught how to properly interact with a small dog and interactions between young kids and puppies are closely supervised. Although they are considered part of the Non-Sporting Group, some facts about Miniature Poodles are that they are versatile and athletic dogs that are also quite playful. Provided they are well-socialized, they get along well with other dogs and tend to do well with strangers. They do tend to be protective of their home and can be suspicious of strangers coming up on the property. They are known to bark to alert you of strangers coming to the house. This makes them a good watchdog, but overall, they are more interested in making friends. This dog breed is highly adaptable. The Miniature Poodle does well in any type of home, including apartments, and fits in with just about any family type. They do well in most climates, but, as with many dog breeds, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because Mini Poodles are people-oriented, they do not like being left alone and will not handle being left alone for long periods of time very well. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to make sure they are not passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Miniature Poodles are highly intelligent, easy to train, and eager to please, which makes them a good fit for owners of any experience level and one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are a people-oriented breed and are sensitive to moods and tones of voice. They do not respond well to harsh training methods or harsh tones as they take it personally, get their feelings hurt, and lose respect for you. A Mini Poodle tends to respond best to consistent training that is fun and focused on positive rewards. A Mini Poodle is one of the fluffiest dog breeds and will have a curly or corded coat that can come in just about any color. Although this dog breed has a low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat, their coat still needs a lot of grooming. They need to be brushed daily to prevent tangles and matting. They should also be professionally groomed every 4 to 6 weeks to keep their coat healthy. Miniature Poodles are high-energy dogs that require a good amount of exercise each day. Daily walks plus some playtime and other activities are usually enough for them. When puppies finish growing and developing, they often enjoy games of fetch and other activities like swimming, hiking, or jogging with their favorite human. Mini Poodles also tend to be great candidates for several dog sports, like agility, tracking, obedience, retriever hunt tests, and more. Just make sure to visit the vet and get your dog cleared for these activities before you jump in. Fully-grown Miniature Poodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Mini Poodles generally live for years on average. The Miniature Poodle was very popular among the French nobility. Featured Miniature Poodle Article.

They Are Naturally Mouthy Golden Retrievers are a mouthy breed, to begin with, they are naturally inclined to pick up and hold anything and everything in their mouths. While it may seem like there is something wrong with your puppy to cause him or her to bite so much, rest assured, all puppies bite, not just Golden Retriever puppies. Play Behaviour When you see a litter of pups play together, they often nip and bite at one another. It is their way of socializing and initiating play. Your puppy will bite and nip at you during playtime with you because it is a natural behaviour to them. They Are Teething Many people associate puppy biting with teething, however when a puppy is teething they will resort to chewing and mouthing in order to relieve their pain. They may chew or mouth on your hands and fingers, but teething is not the cause of biting that every puppy owner experiences. Puppy biting is most often just play. To summarize, puppy biting is normal and should be expected as a puppy owner. In general, biting will naturally subside in Golden Retriever puppies around the age of months. This is around the time that their adult teeth have come in. Puppies at this age usually already know how to moderate their bite, and will not bite or nip at you as much as they did when they were younger. While biting anything and everything is normal behaviour to your puppy, it is not something that you want your puppy to continue to do. It is up to you to teach your puppy not to bite humans, especially children. Take a look at the common mistakes puppy owners often make, and learn to avoid them. Puppies who are excited bite more. Children often fall victim to the most puppy bites because they get very excited around puppies and this just gets the puppy going which results in biting. Any attention that you give your puppy after they bite you will seem like a reward to your puppy, and the biting will just continue. Yelling at your puppy, pushing them away, talking to your puppy, or even looking at them is giving them the attention that they want. Bite inhibition is when your puppy learns how to control the strength of his bite. Puppies learn this skill when they are with their littermates, which is why they need to stay with them and their mother until they are 8 weeks old. Playing with their littermates teaches puppies that biting too hard hurts and will end playtime. The puppy then learns to bite softer. When your puppy comes home with you, it is up to you to teach your puppy how to control the force of their bite. Biting down on the thick fur coat of his mother or littermates is a lot different than biting down on human skin. By not teaching your puppy bite inhibition, you will risk your puppy turning into a dangerous adult. Puppy bites are a lot different than adult dog bites. Once your puppy learns how to control the strength of his bite, eventually the bites become gentler, and in time, your puppy will learn to stop biting altogether. This is part of teaching your puppy bite inhibition. This is a way to mimic how puppies play together, when one puppy bites another puppy too hard, that puppy yelps in pain, and will walk away. In some cases, puppies could get even more worked up by the noise and keep on biting. This is when you need to walk away. When your puppy has calmed down, you can resume playing with your puppy. When your puppy bites you again, repeat the steps of yelping and walking away. Eventually, your puppy will learn to soften his bite, because biting too hard ends playtime. The following video discusses why puppies bite, how to teach bite inhibition and how to survive puppy biting. It is a good idea to have a few chew toys on hand to offer up as a distraction from your skin. Check out this list of the best teething toys for puppies. This will get your puppy to stop and focus on being obedient. A great way to solve boredom is by going for a walk with your puppy. How much exercise should you give your Golden Retriever puppy? A good rule of thumb is 5 minutes of exercise for every month that your puppy is alive. So a 3-month-old puppy should get 15 minutes of exercise a day, a 5-month-old puppy should get 25 minutes per day, and so on. This is in addition to and not instead of playtime. Bitter Apple Spray can also be used to prevent your puppy from nipping and biting at you. Before you interact with your puppy, spray it on your arms, legs, pant legs, or sleeves, anywhere that your puppy likes to nip at you. Once your puppy bites at you, he will get a bad taste in his mouth and will stop. Bitter Apple Spray may not work on all puppies, some may actually develop a taste for it. I know that when my Golden Retriever Ellie was a pup this stuff worked amazingly well, but as she got older she developed a taste for bitter things such as crab apples which are extremely sour and she once sucked on a vinegar packet that was lying on the ground! Reward Good Behaviour Every time your puppy stops biting and nipping at you, you need to see this as positive behaviour. Good behaviour should be rewarded so that your puppy learns that he did something good. Rewarding good behaviour with affection and praise is great, you can also use treats, or toys, sometimes the best reward for your puppy is just spending time with them. Be Patient and Consistent Owning a puppy requires a lot of patience! It is so easy to lose your patience at times, but you need to know that your puppy is learning what is right and wrong, and that takes time. It might not happen overnight, but as long as you remain consistent and patient, your pup will learn good behaviour. If your puppy is nipping at your pant legs or sleeves, chances are he is loving the tugging feeling and is actually already playing tug-of-war. Instead of using your clothing, redirect his attention to a rope toy. One thing to be careful of is being too rough with tug-of-war, especially when your puppy is going through his teething phase. A game of fetch offers your pup a distraction from biting, and Golden Retriever puppies naturally love to retrieve things. This is a great way to also teach your puppy to drop it, by offering a treat when your puppy drops the ball or rope toy. A well-socialized puppy will be less likely to exhibit any unwanted behaviours later on. Enrolling your pup in puppy kindergarten or arranging some play dates with other dogs who are friendly and vaccinated is a great way for your pup to learn social skills. Other dogs are sometimes the best teachers for a puppy because they will let your puppy know what is okay for play and what is not okay, in terms of biting and nipping. Always supervise your puppy while playing with other dogs. Yelling at your puppy will only make your puppy scared and confused as well as lose trust and respect for you. Common mistakes people make when their puppy is biting are pushing them away, clamping down on their mouths or spraying them in the face with water. All of these are a bad idea! Your puppy could see this behaviour as a form of play and continue biting and nipping at you even harder. If you remain calm and use a firm voice not yelling , your pup will see you as in charge. Puppies and dogs often exhibit the same behaviour as we do, if you get upset and start yelling, your puppy will just get even more excited. As unpleasant as puppy biting is, it is normal behaviour. Your puppy biting and nipping at you with a mouth full of shark teeth may seem aggressive, but it is most often just out of curiosity and play behaviour. Golden Retrievers are known for their calm and gentle demeanour, but there are rare instances where you may have an aggressive puppy on your hands. Puppies who have been taken away from their litter earlier than weeks, bad breeding, being abused, a chemical imbalance, and not being socialized are all reasons for aggression in puppies. Signs of an aggressive puppy include barking, growling, lunging at you or another dog, a stiff posture, and showing teeth. If you think your puppy is aggressive, it is important to work with a professional dog trainer or behaviourist in order to find out the reasons for aggression and work on correcting the behaviour before it gets worse. It is important to keep your calm and work with your puppy to teach him the important skill of bite inhibition, and to redirect his biting to more appropriate behaviour. Socializing your puppy, as well as rewarding good behaviour will all help to turn your puppy into a well-behaved dog. Have you tried any of the tips mentioned above? Do you have any other tips to stop Golden Retriever puppy biting? Share your thoughts and comments below, as well as any questions you may have. I would love to hear from you. Jenny I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie. Spread the love. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click on a link and purchase the item. This comes at no extra cost to you. Wish your golden retriever puppy would stop biting so much? Puppy nipping is one of the most frustrating things about raising a new puppy—their teeth are razor-sharp, it hurts when they bite, and they can ruin your clothes! But why do puppies bite so much? Puppies bite to learn acquired bite inhibition, or ABI. What exactly is ABI? He might leap up and bite you because you hurt him and scared him. But the important thing is this: how hard will they bite? This is where ABI comes in. So ABI is really important. Now the question is, how do they learn it? The only way for puppies to learn ABI is to bite, and bite often. The best teachers are other dogs. Next time they bite a little less hard and playtime continues. This is how they learn ABI. Obviously, it takes a lot of repetition of this scenario to happen for a puppy to learn not to bite so hard, but this is essentially how it works out. Yes, you will need to help teach your puppy ABI. You can do this two ways: Set up puppy playdates and take them to puppy kindergarten so other puppies can teach them ABI. You actually want them to bite a little bit and learn to control how hard they bite. That being said, letting them go on a biting rampage is not helping the situation, so here are five tips to help you stop your puppy from biting so much: 1. Socialize your puppy Other dogs are the best teachers of ABI so make sure to get your puppy in kindergarten and set up playdates with dogs that you know are vaccinated. Remove yourself from the situation Puppies can often be over-stimulated or over-tired. One thing we did with our puppy, Oliver, when he got in these moods was to go sit at our high-top table in the kitchen and ignore him until he calmed down or distracted himself with a chew toy. Exercise your puppy A tired puppy is a good puppy. Young puppies have weak jaws, so if they had dull teeth, a bite from them would be no big deal. Most adult golden retrievers bite out of fear and a professional can help you properly handle it. Puppy Biting vs. Chewing Puppy biting or nipping is when a dog purposefully bites you. As we already talked about, they need to do this to learn ABI. Puppy chewing, on the other hand, is when puppies chew on things to relieve the pressure in their mouths from their adult teeth coming in. Since puppies bite and chew for different reasons, you need to handle these problems differently. Mentally wear them by out by training them, going for long walks and letting them sniff around, and giving them puzzle toys or frozen kongs. Remember that a tired puppy is a good puppy. A: It can take up to six weeks or more for your puppy to learn ABI and what is appropriate to bite or not. If it takes longer than six weeks, just remember to be consistent with the steps to stop it and have faith that it will slow down soon. Q: Is puppy biting an act of aggression? A: Most puppy biting is a form of play. It helps them learn ABI. If you think your puppy is biting out of aggression, then you should talk to a professional. Q: Why are puppy teeth so sharp? Q: What is ABI? A: ABI is acquired bite inhibition, or the natural ability for a dog to not bite so hard. Q: Do all puppies bite? A: Yes! Instead, they need to learn to control their bite force, then learn to bite less. Have any questions about puppy biting? Let me know in the comments below! Related articles:. You are bound to want to know when your biting puppy will grow out of this phase and how you can speed that process up. Biting, as you will have discovered is usually accompanied by lots of noise! Why do puppies bite? So why do puppies bite? My puppy is biting hard Puppies do bite hard and it does hurt. But I want to reassure you that even at 8 weeks old, your puppy has learned to moderate his bite in play. Puppies have powerful jaws designed to tear through flesh and crush bones. Those of you who feed your puppy a raw diet will know that even an 8 week old puppy from a medium sized breed can crush bones the size of your little finger. He is deliberately attempting to be gentle. Puppy Biting — Bite inhibition This ability, that your puppy has, to moderate the power of his jaws in play, is called bite inhibition. It is something that his mother started to teach him when he was just a few weeks old. And now it is your turn to take over and complete the training process. Growling and Puppy biting One thing that often worries people who have a new puppy in the family, is the growling that accompanies puppy biting. It sounds horrific. Great snarls and snaps accompany the biting and the puppy can appear quite demonic as he grabs onto your skin, or clothes. Tugging away with all the strength he can muster. Ninety nine times out of a hundred this is completely normal play biting. Is my puppy biting aggressive? You cannot determine whether or not a puppy is biting aggressively by how hard he bites or by the volume of the noise he makes. Play biting puppies bite hard and growl fiercely. Some puppies do occasionally draw blood. But these are not normally savage or crushing bites and the puppy is clearly enjoying himself. Fierce but fun! The play biting puppy will launch himself at the target of his bite. Whether it is your slippers or your fingers, with equal tail-wagging enthusiasm, hanging on grimly and grabbing repeatedly when the item is removed from him. All this, shocking though it may seem, is normal, and is not a sign that your puppy is going to be an aggressive dog! In fact some of the gentlest and most amiable breeds the labrador for example are the worst and fiercest play biters. The puppy that is a cause for concern is the puppy that is frightened. Because although puppies rarely bite through aggression, the nervous puppy may become aggressive as he matures Is my puppy afraid? A scared puppy may bite and scared puppies can grow into scared adult dogs so this is something you need to address quickly. You will know that your puppy is scared because he will try to avoid whatever it is he is scared of. A really frightened puppy will sometimes give off a distinctive musky smell. This hiding, and retreating, and the scared smell are warning signs that you have scared your puppy badly, or purchased a poorly socialised puppy. In this situation you need to get specialist help right away. Your vet should be able to advise you. For the vast majority of puppy owners then, biting is normal puppy behavior. Will my puppy biting stop naturally? To some extent biting is a phase caused by natural puppy playfulness and teething. Some puppies do stop biting with very little input from their family. Which is great. You may feel he should have grown out of it by now. We can physically prevent puppies from biting and we can train puppies not to bite. Both of these are good strategies. Or when children are getting upset, or visitors are winding your puppy up. Prevention usually involves interrupting the biting behavior, then redirecting the puppy into an alternative and more acceptable behavior, such as chewing on a toy. Or, it may involve temporarily separating him from his playmates. Interrupting the puppy biting In mild cases you may simply be able to put a toy in your biting puppy's mouth and get him tugging on that instead of on your fingers. If you are on the floor with the puppy stand up. And if you are standing up, turn and walk away from the puppy. This is where dog gates come in very handy with small puppies. A standard baby gate works fine for most breeds of dog. Managing the puppy You may have to pick up your biting puppy to remove him from the scene if he is biting your children for example, rather than you If he bites your hands and clothes as you try to restrain him, put him on the other side of a barrier or in his crate or puppy playpen for a short while. Although the puppy does learn from them, these are useful management techniques to enable you to control the situation. They help you to keep your puppy calm, and prevent the biting escalating through over excitement. Over-excited puppies Puppy play biting is directly linked to excitement. The more excited your puppy gets, the more and the harder he will bite. And the harder it will be to interrupt and distract him. Rough play excites puppies and noisy play does too. Children tend to squeal when they play and get very physical with puppies. One of the first rules they need to learn when playing with dogs, especially big dogs, is to stand up and stand still when the game gets too much. Limit such play and call a halt to it if your puppy is biting. With medium to large breed dogs, physical rough and tumble play is not a great idea. It can lead to dogs bowling people over or humping them, neither of which is very pleasant. Stopping play when it gets rough is a good management strategy and it is a form of training too. Over time, your puppy learns that biting and rough play loses him his playmates and that people simply leave if he is being mean. When do puppies stop biting? Many puppies have stopped biting completely by six months of age and biting is usually subsiding by the time that the puppy is heading towards five months old. This is if the puppy has been managed appropriately If people have been exciting him, or rewarding him for attention seeking behavior then biting can persist And it can be much more of a problem in bigger stronger puppies than in little ones. Training Puppies Not To Bite The idea of this exercise is to teach a puppy to accept being stroked and handled in any way, without touching us with his teeth. The event marker is a distinctive sound. Even around his mouth, without him making any attempt to bite you. You can also make it easier for him by starting this training when he is calm and not distracted. But for now, keep things simple. It can be a good way of getting the training started so that you have chance to say YES and give the puppy the opportunity to learn what you want him to do. Over the next few sessions, you can work on getting your hand closer and closer to the puppy. Until you are brushing the sides of his face without him making any attempt to mouth or bite at you Progress to touching and holding his collar, stroking his ears, grooming him, examining his paws and so on, all the time rewarding him for the correct behavior. Anytime the mouthing returns, back up to a point where he can succeed and move forward more slowly again Bite Inhibition Training Some experts feel that puppies should be allowed to mouth and even bite gently for a week or two before being prevented from biting altogether. Simply follow the instructions for managing your puppy above when he bites hard. But allow him to mouth you when he bites gently without much pressure. This is a great way to teach a dog excellent control over his mouth. After a couple of weeks of this, you can progress to the training exercise I outlined in the previous section. Older puppies that bite in play have often learned that this gets them a lot of attention. They have discovered that people squeal and shout and get quite cross. Sometimes these people push and shove the dog around which young dogs quite enjoy when they are playing. For these dogs it is important that you stop all physical play, with all family members If a puppy is biting hard at your hands when you try to interrupt his game. Or an older puppy is getting out of hand biting at clothing, you need to put your puppy on a harness and house-line a short trailing leash. This will enable you to control your puppy, and take him to a calming place, without handling him. You can just pick up the end of the line and lead him away. Older biting puppies are often bright and bored. And the best approach to avoiding future episodes of bad behavior is a structured programme of training and interesting activities. A professional dog trainer using modern positive training methods will be able to help you with these. Summary So now you know some tips on how to stop your puppy from biting. The first few weeks can be tough with a determined biter in the house, but you will get through this and come out the other side. A few months from now, this difficult period will be a distant memory In the meantime, focus on keeping your biting puppy calm, avoiding too much rough play, and redirecting his biting onto appropriate toys and activities. Spend some time on the training exercise set out above. Are you a proud new golden retriever puppy parent or considering getting a furry friend? While puppies are adorable and full of energy, they can also be a handful, especially when it comes to biting. This article will cover practical strategies to manage puppy biting and help you and your pup develop a solid and loving relationship. Thus biting is natural. Their bites will become softer as they practice and learn to manage their bite strength. They will eventually stop biting entirely. While biting is a natural part of the learning process, it is essential to train your puppy not to bite excessively. Here are a few tips to get you started: Providing Chew Toys for Redirecting Biting Behavior Providing chew toys is an excellent approach to help your puppy stop biting. When your puppy begins to bite you, remove your hand or foot and replace it with a chew toy. This teaches them that biting is acceptable, but only when done with toys, not people. It is essential to keep an eye on your puppy when they play with chew toys to ensure they do not consume anything toxic. By exposing your puppy to a variety of people, animals, and environments in a controlled and positive manner, you can help them develop proper social skills and reduce biting tendencies. Socialization helps puppies learn appropriate bite inhibition and establishes boundaries for acceptable behavior during interactions. Through well-planned socialization experiences, you can guide your puppy towards becoming a well-behaved and gentle companion. Employing the Time-Out Strategy for Persistent Biting Use the time-out strategy when other methods fail to stop your puppy from biting. If your puppy continues to bite, place him on a time-out for 30 seconds before allowing him to return to play. This teaches your puppy that biting is unacceptable and will result in a loss of playtime or attention. Again, use a gentle tone and avoid shouting or scolding your puppy. When your puppy plays gently with their toys instead of biting you, shower them with praise and perhaps even a tasty gift! This teaches your puppy that good behavior leads to beautiful things. Instead, concentrate on encouraging appropriate behavior and redirecting any inappropriate biting. Your puppy will learn to control their biting and play in a friendly and safe manner with time, patience, and positive reinforcement. This entails repeating the same commands, techniques, and rewards each time you train. When you do this, your puppy learns what is expected of them and how to get rewarded. On the other hand, if you are inconsistent, your puppy may get confused and unsure of what they need to do to please you. This can make training more difficult and frustrating for you and your puppy. So, strive to be consistent in your training. However, they can get nippy during their fun exploration of the world around them. The good news is that this is a natural habit for pups, and there are ways to deal with it. Puppies prefer to bite to initiate play, learn more about their surroundings, and adjust their bite pressure, especially when they are teething. These actions are part of how they play, interact, and learn about their environment. First, however, puppies must be taught how to control their biting pressure and redirect their biting to appropriate toys and chew objects, which we will discuss later. Puppy bites, for example, can become more painful and even harmful as they increase in size. Additionally, it might lead to destructive chewing if you do not divert their biting habit to appropriate chew items. As a result, it is critical to address this habit early on through regular teaching and positive reinforcement. Understand what motivates them and what makes them more likely to engage in biting. Adjust your training methods: Not all puppies respond to the same training techniques. Some may respond better to positive reinforcement, while others may require more redirection and distraction. Consider their energy levels: Golden Retrievers are known for their energy and enthusiasm. Be patient and consistent: Training takes time, and each puppy learns at their own pace. Be patient with your puppy and provide consistent guidance. Remember, every Golden Retriever puppy is an individual, and what works for one may not work for another. With a customized approach, you can effectively address biting behavior and set your unique puppy on the path to becoming a well-behaved and happy companion. So, most puppies begin to bite and mouth less frequently when they are 8 to 10 months old. However, this varies greatly depending on the individual pup. Some may stop sooner, while others may take a little longer. Golden retrievers, for example, love using their tongues. At the same time, herding dogs such as border collies or corgis may continue to nip at ankles as they age. Just keep working with your pet and providing the guidance they require to create positive habits! Conclusion As you begin the joyful road of raising your Golden Retriever puppy, keep in mind that training and socialization are essential for producing a happy and well-behaved dog. You can teach your puppy what is expected of them and create healthy behaviors that will last a lifetime using consistent and positive reinforcement techniques. Remember that each puppy is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. You will be rewarded with a devoted and well-behaved companion if you are patient and committed to the training process. Remember to give your puppy enough exercise and mental stimulation and to continuously reward positive behavior. You can help your puppy grow into a happy and healthy adult dog who will provide you happiness for many years by doing so. By the time your puppy reaches around three months of age, they should start to develop bite inhibition and learn to control the force of their bites during play. As you continue to interact and train with your puppy, you can gradually increase your sensitivity to the level of bites you find acceptable. By the age of four or five months, their play bites should no longer exert any force. Can I use physical punishment to stop my puppy from biting? Certainly not! To stop a puppy from biting, never use physical punishment. It is not only ineffective, but it can also be harmful and cause long-term behavioral issues. Instead, train your puppy using positive reinforcement techniques, including redirection, time-outs, and excellent rewarding behavior. What can I do? Puppies frequently nip and bite while playing with other dogs, but teaching them to control their bite force is essential. My puppy is teething. What can I do to stop them from biting? Teething is a normal developmental stage for puppies , and they naturally want to chew and bite things. Similar to what we discussed earlier. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. 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. Golden Retrievers are notorious for this, and it often lasts so long that people wonder if it ever stops. Consider how sociable and friendly they are by nature. Why is this habit so difficult for them to break? Golden Retrievers follow their basic instinct to bite because of their history with hunting, chasing, and even biting in some situations. Why Do Golden Retrievers Bite? Golden Retrievers start to explore the world with their mouths and eventually start to enjoy chewing on whatever they can get into their mouth. It strengthens their gums and teeth, but it is not a behavior most people want to encourage. This breed is also more inclined to bite things because they were bred for hunting and retrieving small game. Aside from following their instincts, there could be other reasons that they are nipping at you or your possessions. Some dogs bite when they are scared, need help, or are in unfamiliar environments. Biting is a natural reaction for many situations. Still, it must stop before it turns into a habit. Golden Retriever litters typically stop biting around 8—14 weeks old. The pain conditions them not to bite without a threat. Keep Them Active Dogs who are mentally and physically stimulated are less likely to have behavioral issues. Exercise them daily. When playing, keep the sessions gentle. However, do not do this while they are still being trained. Image Credit: Photology, Shutterstock 3. Socialize Them If possible, enroll your dog in obedience classes as soon as possible. Some dogs feel threatened more easily than others, and they may act out around other dogs if not properly trained and socialized. Introduce them to new people and animals as often as possible. Positive Reinforcement The best form of training is with positive reinforcement. Use lots of praise and treats whenever your dog is acting in a way you want them to. You cannot afford to skip this type of training because it is the most effective. The older they get, the bigger a sign it is that you need to fix the problem. If you continue to allow your dogs to bite people , animals, or objects, someone is going to get hurt. She attributes her passion for the environment and all its creatures to her childhood when she was showing horses on weekends and spending her weeknights devoting her attention to her pets. She enjoys spending most of her time in Michigan playing with her two rescue cats, Chewbacca and Lena, and her dog, Clayton. Read more Advertisement. However, you may notice that Golden Retrievers love to to chew on things. It makes you wonder if these dogs will bite. Golden Retrievers, like most dog breeds, have a natural tendency to bite. They are still among the safest dogs to be around. When measured on a scale from 1 to 10, the propensity of Golden Retrievers to bite is next to zero — and at most, probably only about 2. Read on to learn more. Biting is of course a fundamental characteristic of all dogs. Here are the most popular and common reasons for why a dog will bite. Dogs may bite because they are teething, which makes them want to chew on something — just like human babies. A dog breed that was originally bred to be a hunter or herder may still possess the genetic makeup that makes the dog eager to attack or bite. Dogs may bite when they feel surprised or threatened. In fact, this is a common response from all animals. For example, if the dog was rescued and lived in an abusive environment with its previous owner, that may have made the particular dog insecure and aggressive. That being said, the reasons why dogs bite are varied just as the reasons why dogs kiss or lick are varied. Why Do Golden Retrievers Bite? Golden Retrievers are some of the nicest dogs to have around as family pets. In fact, Vet Street named them one of the 13 friendliest dog breeds in the world! Golden Retrievers are just intrinsically good-natured. What gets a Golden Retriever — one of the least aggressive dog breeds in the world —agitated enough to go against its normal temperament and bite someone? Continue reading to learn why biting tends to occur more often in Golden Retrievers. Their job in the 19th century was to fetch dead game birds from hills and bodies of water, such as lakes. As a result, Goldens love to swim in water and are highly energetic, which means they need plenty of physical exercise on a daily basis. In fact, we recommend at least one hour of physical activity daily but the more the better. Other Reasons Why Golden Retrievers Bite Since Golden Retrievers are usually particularly friendly and gentle, you may be surprised if and when they bite, especially if they bite you. The reason why Golden Retrievers bite could be because of any of these reasons: Well, they are dogs after all and all dogs have an impulse to bite. When they are young , they might like to nip or gently bite on your fingers which might help them improve their gums and teeth. This behavior is seen in all teething puppies. Your Golden Retriever might bite while responding instinctively to stress or fear. For example, this could be a perceived threat such as a wild animal or intruder. If your Golden Retriever is in pain and you unknowingly touch that spot, he might bite you. Your Golden Retriever may have suffered from abuse and psychological trauma in the hands of a previous owner. This is something to consider if you have adopted your dog. Such a traumatic past may make your dog react in strange ways. A nibble during play might be okay for you but a hard bite may potentially cause harm to you. This is something you need to address especially if there are kids in your household. It may take a few times for them to learn. If possible, acquaint the puppy with new people each day. Give the puppy a toy when he tries to bite you. Most puppies will outgrow their puppy phase and learn impulse control. However, being able to control this sooner than later can prevent any future mishaps. Goldens love to please their owners and will take their training seriously. So what happens if your adult Golden is still biting? Tips to train adult Golden Retrievers so that they stop biting: Use plenty of enticing rewards, such as treats and play time. Remember to always use positive reinforcement training, as it works best with these dogs. Get your Golden Retriever plenty of exercise. This helps the adult dog dissipate his energy in non-harmful ways and keeps them more focused during training. Use the timeout method. Apart from the tips mentioned above, you can additionally use deterrence collars on adult Golden Retrievers. Rather, it should be used as a last resort. You can consult with your vet to find out if there are any underlying medical issues that might be the reason for your Golden Retriever behaving strangely. As a last resort, you might need to consult with a dog behaviorist. Teach your kids not to hurt the puppy with rough play. This can include pulling on the tails or ears, riding the dog, or pushing. You have to train both kids and the dog at the same time. The short answer is yes, Goldens are safe for households with small children. However, for the dog to treat your children with respect, the kids need to treat the dog with respect too. I guarantee you will be surprised at some of the dog breeds on that list! Oh, and of course, the Golden Retriever! But dog breeds aside, every dog is an individual dog and you need to treat him or her as such. Believe it or not, smaller dogs can be more nervous or snappy than bigger dogs. A correlation has been shown, mostly anecdotally but statistically as well that suggests the idea. As this BBC report details, some studies have shown shorter dogs to be more aggressive under specific circumstances. But scientists are still not clear about the reason for this. It could be that the dog owners of small dogs are passing on their own anxiety to their dog. We may also have wrong information about dog bites as bites by smaller dogs may be under reported not big enough injury. Does your Golden Retriever bite a lot? How do you deal with the biting? Let us know in the comments section below! Posts you may like:.