when to neuter a boxer puppy

These are not mixed breed, but purebred Boxer pups. Deposits required. They are up to date on vaccinations and dewormed. Puppies have been raised in our home around children and other pets. They are xx weeks old. Please contact for more info. I have 2 boys, 2 girls in litter, they have been wormed up to date, been to the vet for health check and 1st vaccination. Pups Akc registered, vet certificate, also a3 generation pedigree paper. Mother is our stunning red and white bitch which can be seen with pups on viewing. Puppies ready to go now, will have 4 weeks free insurance. Delivery can be arranged, phone for further details. View Detail Beautiful Boxer Babies Stunning litter off boxer puppy's, very well socialized, we have 1 boy and 4 girls available these babies will leave with full vet check, microchip, first vaccines View Detail Beautiful Boxer Babies Stunning litter off boxer puppy's, very well socialized, we have 1 boy and 4 girls available these babies will leave with full vet check, microchip, first vaccines View Detail Boxer puppies for sale Cute Boxer puppies available for rehoming they are akc registered got all shots and checked up to date They are 10 weeks old potty trained and tails are docked and are purebred View Detail AKC Boxer Male I have given Jason his first shot, also he has had his first vet visit. I have the paper work to show all shots given. Jason is a sweet and very smart puppy. He was born on January 13, Friday the 13th. That's why his name is Jason. His mom is pounds, Dad is pounds. I'm thinking he will take more after his dad judging by how big his paws are. Dad isn't super tall, but very muscular. Jason will come with a neuter contract. Neutering is better for his health. This is his Mom's first litter. Please know the breed. Boxers can not be left outside. Extreme cold or extreme heat can kill them. Puppy pack AKC papers. Going to be big dogs View Detail Loving n Adorable English bull dog Puppies For Sale my english bulld0gs enj0y mixing with 0ther d0gs and h0useh0ld pets. They are CKC registered and come with a health guarantee. Their tails are docked and dewclaws removed. They will be UTD on shots and dewormings. They will be ready for their new homes on August 28th. Boxer puppies for sale in Virginia Beach, VA from trusted breeders. Boxer puppies for sale in Richmond, VA from trusted breeders. She is housebroken and very active. Contact E-mail Address alextimramirez1 outlook. You'll be asked to provide information about yourself and what you are looking for so the breeder can help you find the right match. Boxer puppies for sale in Roanoke, VA from trusted breeders. Boxers are high energy dogs and have wonderful personalities. Boxer puppies for sale in Lynchburg VA. All the boxer puppies for sale are high quality ACA and AKC puppies and offered only to families who understand the physical and health needs of a puppy. The best way to put it…A boxer is a boxer. Use Petfinder to find adoptable pets in your area. The American Boxer Club was established in .The head is distinctive, with a broad, blunt muzzle and alert expression. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Richmond, VA Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their. The Boxer dog breed slowly gained popularity throughout Europe in the late s. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Virginia Beach, VA Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. VA Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Virginia Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Their boxer puppies for sale have lots of space to play and run and get enough exercise in their fenced-in play yard. Dogs and Puppies, Goldendoodle Norfolk, Boxer puppies for sale in Suffolk, VA from trusted breeders. Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Norfolk, VA. Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Suffolk, VA. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Virginia Beach, VA Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to. Find Boxer puppies for sale. Jolene is a 55 pound, 3 yo, boxer mix. I am away for work 8 hours a day and she is fine on her own. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Meet Nala Nala is a loving, spunky, 3 month old boxer mix. Boxer Puppies For Sale in Virginia. Boxer For Sale in Virginia .Boxer Puppies for Sale in West Virginia. Boxer Puppies for Sale in VA Boxers are upbeat, playful family dogs that have earned a reputation for being protective guardians or watchdogs and silly, bright-eyed, affectionate. Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Boxer puppies for sale in Richmond VA The Boxer dog breed slowly gained popularity throughout Europe in the late s. We recommend speaking directly with your breeder to get a better idea of their price range. This adventurous and fun little girl would love to find a family that enjoys the outdoors. There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Boxer puppies in Bluefield, Virginia. Boxer Puppies for Sale in VA Boxers are upbeat, playful family dogs that have earned a reputation for being protective guardians or watchdogs and silly, bright-eyed, affectionate companions for children. Kids over 8 years old please and fenced in yard would be highly recommended. The Molossus blood makes the hardworking Boxer dog courageous, bright, and alert. Why buy a Boxer puppy for sale if you can adopt and save a life? Look at pictures of Boxer puppies in Virginia who need a home. Be happy for the ones that have been adopted… The right Boxer is worth waiting for. If you're interested in a puppy from Keen Boxers, please apply. Browse these Boxer rescues and shelters below. You cannot mold them into being any other dog. Good in a home with Other dogs, cats, children. Boxer Breeders in Virginia VA. This breeder has three years of experience in breeding Boxer puppies. Boxer puppies for sale in Norfolk, VA from trusted breeders. Here are a few organizations closest to you: Rescue .Boxer puppies for sale Lynchburg, Virginia Introduction of the Boxer The Boxer dog breed originated in Germany and has been around since the late 19th century. Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Roanoke, VA. Boxer Puppies for sale .He was then imported to the United States in and was accepted by the American. Boxer Puppies in Virginia. They do have a variety of 3. Boxer puppies for sale in Virginia Beach, VA from trusted …. She loves her toys but takes care of them. The price listed includes kennel water food bowls harness and leach. Nala is a loving, spunky, 3 month old boxer mix. Boxer Puppies for Sale in Virginia 1. Jolene does get startled by loud noises thunder and trash trucks but just. Boxer puppies for sale from trusted breeders. They are AKC registered and all papers are available. Boxers for Sale in Richmond, VA. Take them and love them as they are! They will provide you with the best and high quality boxers. But this dog breed was also useful in guarding and driving livestock. The mini boxer is a hybrid dog. His main purpose is for hunting large game. She loves going to the beach and riding on the cruiser with her foster family. Boxer puppies for sale .Lola is a puppy that needs a lot of attention and work so please no seniors should apply for her. This breeder has been active in breeding Boxers for many years. This breed is square-proportioned with good substance and musculature. Boxer puppies for sale in Virginia with Price. Melendez Puppies Melendez puppies were established in as a family-centered dog breeder. Boxer puppies sale Richmond VA. Boxer puppies for sale in Virginia from trusted breeders. Boxer Puppies for Sale Boxers are upbeat, playful family dogs that have earned a reputation for being protective guardians or watchdogs and silly, bright-eyed, affectionate companions for children. You'll be asked to provide information about yourself and what you are looking for so the. Hybrid dogs are created when two purebred canines, from different groups or classes, breed to create a new standard with positive characteristic from both lines. She currently weighs 15 lbs and is estimated to be around lbs. Boxer puppies We will certainly have young puppies ready for new homes October we are now accepting applications. Boxer Puppies Akc For Sale. He was then imported to the United States in and was accepted by the American Kennel Club the following year. Lupita Give a Dog a Name March 2, .Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Richmond, VA Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. If you are unable to find your Boxer puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Boxer Dogs for Adoption. West Virginia. Virginia Boxer Classifieds Hoobly. Considering Diesel for adoption? The modern Boxer breed we. Boxer puppies sale Lynchburg VA. No puppies where found matching your criteria. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Roanoke, VA Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. She's been wonderful with children and a great passenger in a car. She loves her people HARD and thinks she is a lap dog. Akc boxer puppies born February 15th. This is a reliable dog breeder that is dedicated to offering superb customer service to fur parents. Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. We are centrally located within the state — roughly the same distance to the beach and mountains. Boxer Puppies for Sale in Virginia. We offer beautiful European Boxer puppies from health-tested parents. They will provide you with the best and high quality boxers puppies for sale. Once you apply, Traci will get back to you about availability, pricing and next steps. In both world wars, various military tasks were given to Boxer dogs including guard dogs, attack. Boxer puppy for sale in Virginia. Most Popular Boxer Puppy for Sale Names for We've compiled the top 20 male and female Boxer names for after analyzing Boxer puppies for sale. Petfinder recommends that you should always take reasonable security steps before making online payments. Boxer West Virginia. Please read all of the information below carefullly. Training Aptitude Headstrong Eager to please Full-grown size. Boxer Puppies for Sale in VA. He's a mild mannered pup who loves his foster brothers and sisters both human and canine. The Boxer is exemplary in the combination of stylish elegance with strength and agility. Brindle, Fawn and flashy fawn available. Well the boxer might be the right breed of dog for you. Considering Boris for adoption? Has all her shots and paper work. Department of Veterans Affairs for the purchase of a car. Boston Terrier Location Age Any. Kishu puppies and dogs in Richmond, Virginia. Hello,We are selling an eight week old stocky male boxer puppy. Boxer Puppies for Sale in VA Boxers are upbeat, playful family dogs that have earned a reputation for being protective guardians or watchdogs and silly, bright-eyed, affectionate companions for children. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Boxer puppy - Beauty. Boxer Breeders in Virginia VA. However, for other purposes such as obtaining veteran benefits for educa. Cute Boxer puppies available, 3 fawn males 2 fawn female 1 Flashy Sealed reverse brindle female docked tails and dew claws removed wormed. In the United States, a person must have been on full-time active duty for 24 conse. Pet home Price is and Breedingplease for more info and pics of the puppy contact me on or text us on. For more pictures or to come see us please call Gina at or Wade at. The American Boxer Club was established in .PetzLover helps you to find your lovable pets to your home. She is a pure breed boxer puppy. Foster families take an unwanted or abandoned boxer into their home, treat it like one of their own, nurse it through required medical care paid for by CBR , provide love, socialization and training to help the dog get ready for their forever home. We have been given our shots and been dewormed. White boxer puppies for sale. These Mountain Curs are available for adoption close to Richmond, Virginia. Has all her shots and paper wor. A military veteran is a person who has served a term of service in the military and who has completed it with something other than a dishonorable discharge. Vet examined and up to date on shots. Meet Riley! This 6 month old sweet girl came to. Much of this greater access is possible through scholarships specifically for veterans. Gorgeous colors! We have one male, Don't miss what's happening in your neighborhood. Veterans Day is one of the eleven federal holidays in the United States for federal organizations and is a public holiday for all 50 states. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Virginia Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Marketplace for Trainers helps you match your dog training goals with the perfect trainer for you and your dog's needs, from Canine Good Citizen preparation to performance sports. Use the search tool below to browse adoptable Kishu puppies and adult Kishu in Richmond, Virginia. Boxer For Sale in Richmond 7. Brindle Boxer pups for sale. No puppies where found matching your criteria. Boxer puppies for sale in Richmond VA. Boxer puppies for sale in Richmond, VA from trusted breeders. Dew claws, tails, vet checked, shots up to date. The Boxer dog breed slowly gained popularity throughout Europe in the late s. Boxer puppies for sale .Adopt a Sloughi near you Sloughi in cities near Richmond, Virginia Other pups in Richmond, Virginia Search for a Sloughi puppy or dog near you Browse Sloughi puppies and dogs in nearby cities Browse related breeds in Richmond, Virginia Sloughi shelters and rescues in Richmond, Virginia Learn more about adopting a Sloughi puppy or dog. He was then imported to the United States in and was accepted by the American Kennel Club the following year. Boxer puppy - Beauty virginia, richmond. Boxer puppies for sale Richmond Virginia. Boxer Puppies for Sale in Richmond Virginia. Try a different search below! There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Doberman Pinscher puppies in Richmond, Virginia. Boxer Puppies for Sale in Virginia. We reside in Waynesboro, but willing to negotiate a meeting location if seriously interested in the puppy. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Richmond, VA Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Ernie and his brother, Bert, were rescued from an overburdened » Read more » Cook. Boxer Puppies for sale in Richmond, va from top breeders and individuals. This article focuses on helping you find th. Cute Boxer puppies available. As of , Veterans with service-connected disabilities may be eligible for a one-time automobile allowance payment from the U. Black Mouth Cur Puppies for Sale. Want to know more about fostering or adopting a Houlagan? Please reach out to us at … more. We celebrate it every year, but how did Veterans Day come into existence? It dates back to the sign. Why buy a Boxer puppy for sale if you can adopt and save a life? Look at pictures of Boxer puppies in Richmond who need a home. Find a Boxer puppy from reputable breeders near you in Richmond, VA. We're sorry but this site doesn't work properly. Page 4 - Boxer Puppies for sale near Richmond, VA within miles from top breeders and individuals. Boxer, Virginia » Virginia Beach. Boxer puppies sale Richmond VA. Anything Look…Weird? For the best experience, we recommend you upgrade to the latest version of Chrome or Safari. Adopt a Puli near you in Richmond, Virginia We don't see any Pulis available for adoption right now, but new adoptable pets are added every day. The price is negotiable please contact me at. We are ready to go to our new homes on January 15th. If you are a veteran, one of the greatest available benefits is access to a low-cost education post-service. If you are unable to find your. Boxer puppy for sale near me. These Boston Terriers are available for adoption close to Richmond, Virginia. She has been socialized and very playful. Pet home Price is and Breedingplease for more info and pics of the puppy contact me on or text us on Reply to Seller View pictures. After years of serving their country, many military veterans find themselves unsure of how to return to civilian life once they leave the service. Pets for Sale in Richmond, VA. But don't worry! At Uptown, we'll always find a. She is up to date on vaccines and deworming. Dixie Finding a Boxer Puppy for. She definitely needs plenty of space to play and would benefit from some training. Find Boxer Puppies and Breeders in your area and helpful Boxer information. If you are unable to find your Boxer puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Boxer Dogs for Adoption. We've compiled the top 20 male and female Boxer names for after analyzing Boxer puppies for sale. Adopt an Affenpinscher near you Affenpinscher in cities near Richmond, Virginia Other pups in Richmond, Virginia Search for an Affenpinscher puppy or dog near you Browse Affenpinscher puppies and dogs in nearby cities Browse related breeds in Richmond, Virginia Affenpinscher shelters and rescues in Richmond, Virginia Learn more about. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets. This litter has at least one dog. Join millions of people using Oodle to find unique used cars for sale, apartments for rent, jobs listings, merchandise, and other classifieds in your neighborhood. Search results for "boxer puppies" for sale in Richmond, Virginia View pictures Beac Boxer puppies ready Beac Boxer puppies ready Champagne, soguaranteed to also carry chocolate. Black masks, some flash and socks. These are not mixed breed, but purebred B. Save this search and we'll notify you when they are. Find Boxer breeders with puppies for sale near Richmond. Browse these Doberman Pinscher rescues and shelters below. Boxer Puppies for sale near Richmond, VA within miles from top breeders and individuals. Adopt a Pet can help you find an adorable Kishu near you. Steps to make your home ready for well coming to a boxer breed dog: 1. Transportation to Richmond, VA available. Puli puppies and dogs in Richmond, Virginia. The basic definition of a veteran states that one is considered a veteran if they were a solider that served a long term, or if they were a member of the armed forces. Beac Boxer puppies ready for sale in Richmond, Virginia. WWII veterans are dying at a rate of per day, with most of them being over 90 years old. She is registered with the akc. Boxer puppy for sale VA. They have accommodated over two hundred thousand puppies in caring homes. She is a typical puppy that is learning to be on a leash. Will be available in approximately eight weeks. Beac Boxer puppies ready Champagne, soguaranteed to also carry chocolate. Stocky eight week old Boxer Puppy virginia, richmond. Who Is a Military Veteran? Here are a few organizations closest to you: Rescue .To see more adoptable Black Mouth Curs in Richmond, Virginia, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria! The Molossus blood makes the hardworking Boxer dog courageous, bright, and alert. There are many different deals and benefits for veterans, one of which is healthcare coverage. Below are our newest added Mountain Curs available for adoption in Richmond, Virginia. According to the American Community Survey, there are .Services: Puppies,Adult Dogs,Rescue. Boxers for Sale in Richmond, VA. Boxer puppies for sale in Richmond VA The Boxer dog breed slowly gained popularity throughout Europe in the late s. Box , Spotsylvania, VA .Cindy Williams has lived in Virginia all her life and breeds beautiful Boxers. Taking the time to do research to make sure blood lines are right to produce the finest and healthiest boxers in Virginia. Williams encourages all prospective puppy owners to do their own research and be prepared with questions to ask the breeders about puppy's they are inquiring about. As Ms. Williams has been breeding boxers for over 30 years and has an excellent reputation for quality, temperament and a love for the breed. She's famous for telling it like it is. You must know your blood line and health, to breed the very best you can, so the new family is not heart broken with the results of a bad breeding. You must know what and what not to breed. If you decide to find your boxer friend elsewhere, no worries, Ms. Williams is so helpful to give you the right information so you can make your best decision with as much insight as possible. Boxers and Miniature Schnauzers are family dogs who love to interact with you. They are part of the family always. Please go and have a look at these fine litters, you wont be disappointed. Of course she is protective of her baby's so no one is allowed to come until after their first shot. As fun as it may be for you and your dog who want to come an see pup's, your four legged friend must stay home. Boxer Parents, Aunts and Uncle's are on the premises, so come and enjoy. Sometimes the puppy picks you, if he hasn't been picked already. Have any questions Please give Landslide Boxers a call: Cindy or email [email protected] If we have no available litters or are you are interested in the "coming soon" litters please send an email so we may send you an application to fill out. These pup's go fast, so getting an application in is most helpful, and gets you in the first to call list. If you have any questions do not hesitate to give us a shout, with any questions you have. Thanks for taking the time to read about us, you can also see us on Facebook under Landslides Boxers - Cindy is new at facebook I have to admit, she getting better, but you can call her too : Melendez Puppies.

The Dangers of Too Much or Too Little Exercise Too little exercise can result in the development of many behavioral and health issues in your Bernedoodle. Physically, obesity in dogs is a major problem and is linked to serious and potentially deadly threats like kidney disease, heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. Behaviorally, a lack of sufficient activity can also be the underlying cause of many problems like excessive barking, counter-surfing, destructiveness, and so much more. The bones and joints of your Bernedoodle puppy are still growing and developing until they reach their full height and weight. Putting too much stress on them during these formative months can result in life-long joint and bone issues. Age The age of your dog is the single biggest factor that determines their Bernedoodle exercise requirements. Senior dogs, on the other hand, may not have the same energy or stamina they did when they were younger. Both older and younger dogs require plenty of rest throughout the day. Size Large dogs, like the Standard Bernedoodle, develop slowly and, as a result, can take a long time to reach their adult height and weight. It can take a Standard Bernedoodle between 18 months and 3 years to stop growing, but it usually averages around 2 years. Smaller dogs like the Mini Bernedoodle or Toy Bernedoodle will finish growing faster and be able to handle longer periods of exercise sooner. The Miniature Bernedoodle will usually hit its full grown size at around 18 months. The Toy Bernedoodle a. Personality On average, Bernedoodles are a moderately active breed. However, like humans, every dog has its own unique personality and temperament. Some Bernedoodles are more relaxed while others are higher-energy. Oftentimes, genetics play a role and you can get an idea of how high-energy your puppy will be based on the temperament of their parents. Keep on the lookout for signs your dog is getting too much or too little exercise… If your dog is getting too much exercise, they may be hesitant to go outside or may choose to lie down instead of walking. They may also show physical symptoms like limping or sickness. Always watch closely for excessive panting as that may be a sign that they need to rest. As they say, a tired dog is an obedient dog. Still confused as to how much exercise your Bernedoodle puppy should be getting? If they need more activity, you can repeat these 10 minute sessions times per day. Every month after that you can add another 5 minutes to that length until you hit 30 minutes, times per day at month 6. Mini Bernedoodle Puppy Exercise Requirements During your first month with your Miniature Bernedoodle at 8 weeks old, limit their exercise to 10 minutes at a time, times per day. You can slowly increase this time to 15 minutes at 4 months old, 20 minutes at 5 months old, and 25 minutes at 6 months old. Keep these 25 minute sessions, times per day until your Mini Bernedoodle has their first birthday. For the next 6 months keep their walks or activity in minute increments, times per day. As such, you need to take ramping up their exercise very slowly so as not to hurt their joints and bones. For months 4 and 5, you can increase their exercise sessions to 15 minute intervals. When they hit 6 months old, you can start exercising 20 minutes a day, times per day until their first birthday. From 12 months to 18 months you can increase their sustained exercise to 25 minute periods. From 18 months until 2 years the safe range is minutes, times per day. Finally, at 2 years old they are considered an adult and can go the full recommendation of minutes, times per day. Bring that down just a tad when they become a senior to minute intervals. Exercising is more than just walks! Just as important as how long your puppy exercises for is what type of exercise they do. Vigorous, high-impact exercise, even for short periods of time, can result in bone and joint problems. Here are some common, puppy-safe exercise options as well as some common ideas that are dangerous. Playtime with Other Puppies — Other puppies will have similar staminas and this is a great activity for socialization as well. If your puppy plays with older dogs, they may be tempted to go too hard trying to keep up, so make sure you are supervising carefully. Always walk at a slow or moderate pace and remember that stopping to sniff is good mental stimulation! Jumping or Climbing — Whether this is climbing staircases or jumping off couches, these activities can take a huge, negative toll on their joints. Catching Frisbees or Balls in the Air — Constantly running and jumping to catch these toys will be rough on their developing body. Luckily, there are plenty of creative ways to sneak in some fun physical and mental exercise for your dog! Snuffle balls and snuffle mats allow your dog to search for their food using their sense of smell. This is a great way to relax and calm your dog. There are plenty of snuffle toy options available on Amazon or Etsy. If you prefer to DIY, here are our step-by-step instructions for making your own snuffle ball! Hide and Seek A simple game of hide and seek allows your Bernedoodle both physical and mental exercise as they search around the house to find you! Start easy and eventually find more challenging locations as your pup gets to be an expert at this game! Tug of War This classic game that can be played indoors or outdoors will help your meet the Bernedoodle exercise requirements. How Far Can a Bernedoodle Walk? In general, Bernedoodle puppies under 2 years old should avoid walks longer than 1 or 2 miles in length. Once their stamina is built up, adult Bernedoodles can walk miles or even longer. Remember, a mile is more strenuous for Toy and Mini Bernedoodles than it is for Standard Bernedoodles since their strides are smaller and it will take more steps. The balancing act of getting your dog enough activity without putting stress on their growing body is a constant struggle. More About Bernedoodles…. You have done your research, and are ready to take the leap. It is no surprise that many people are adding Bernedoodles to their families. This large breed puppy has a friendly temperament and a fierce loyalty. We personally got a Bernedoodle last year, and she just turned one. I remember the day we brought her home trying to figure out how much to feed a Bernedoodle puppy. As a new puppy parent, the last thing you want to do is over or under feed your new pet, so hopefully this post serves as helpful for you with your new Bernedoodle puppy. This post may contain affiliate links All about Bernedoodles Bernedoodles are adaptable, making them a wonderful choice for novice or veteran owners. They are smart and protective dogs. This makes them great for young ages. If you are just doing your beginning research, the Bernedoodle breed is a combination of a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle. They inherit their intelligence from the Poodle parent. It is obvious that the goofy traits are those of the Bernese Mountain Dog parent. These parent breeds create a perfect family dog. Their size is determined by the Poodle parent. They are broken down into size categories. Bernedoodles can be toy, mini or standard. One thing that is pretty surprising is that the different sizes do not typically affect their food choices during puppyhood. Bernedoodle puppies are known to love younger children. They are playful and gentle as a lifelong companion. Bernedoodles are smart but are also silly. This trait makes them a good choice for all ages. As a mom of four kids, this was very important to me. If you want to learn more about owning Bernedoodle — I have a whole blog post here with all the details on what is like to truly own a Bernedoodle puppy. How much to Feed a Bernedoodle Puppy As you prepare to become a bernedoodle parent, their growth and development are important to you. You are undoubtedly concerned about health issues or health problems that may arise. Did you know that there is a big difference between puppy food and adult dog food? It may be hard to know where to start, but I will break it down for you! In their full size, they are big dogs. At their full height, they are also very tall. Their looks can be deceiving. Even though they are larger dogs, they may not need more food than a typical dog. You want to be prepared with this knowledge before you decide if this dog is right for you. How do you ensure a healthy lifestyle for your pup? It is important to learn how much food is necessary in their different life stages. The Reasoning Behind the Puppy Food New dog owners have several choices to make when it comes to food. It can be overwhelming, but there are a few simple things to keep in mind for a balanced diet. Your main goal is a healthy, happy dog! Adult dogs and puppies have different nutritional needs. Puppy food is specifically designed for growing pups. As they grow, they are burning more calories. This means that they need more calories per pound of body weight to sustain their developing bodies. Bernedoodle puppies need more fatty acids and high protein diets. These puppies complete a majority of their growth within two or three years. In these first few years, they will need higher amounts of protein calories. Veterinarians will say that it is, however, not toxic for your puppy to eat adult dog food. They may suggest that you do your best to stick to these separate kinds of dog food for optimal health. This type of food is typically referred to as adult maintenance for day-to-day living. It should be clearly labeled on the packages. Once they have reached their adult weight, they can maintain the health benefits from their simpler diet. The transition from puppy food to adult dog food should be seamless. Bernedoodle dogs are laid back and not picky! Most of the time, they will eat what is put in front of them. Now that we have covered the difference between the types of dog food, we will get right to specific amounts for Bernedoodle puppies. Our Penny had a very sensitive stomach as a puppy, and we have stuck with this puppy food and been very happy with the choice. She seems to be happy and thriving on it. Specific amounts of Food for Bernedoodle Puppies Young puppies that are two to six months of age typically eat three different times a day. The daily amount of puppy food depends on weeks of age and how much they weigh. It will also depend on how much exercise they receive. I will break that down specifically. But, it is important to keep in mind that their food intake will increase as they grow. At around six months of age, Bernedoodle puppies can eat twice a day. This schedule may continue for adult Bernedoodles. They are growing very quickly. Setting your puppy up with proper nutrients will benefit growth, brain health and a long lifespan. It is helpful to stick to designated eating times for your puppy. Do not forget that It is a good choice to check the directions of the healthy dog food you purchase. On the back of each package, there should be a suggested serving size. As always, contact your veterinarian if you are concerned about how your Bernedoodle is developing. Interestingly enough, adult Bernedoodle dogs tend to only eat one serving a day. They can finish their larger amount of food in one sitting. When they reach an even older age it may be difficult for them to finish this serving in one feeding. It is helpful to spread these servings out for older dogs while it gets harder to finish a meal. At this point you will be in tune to what your Bernedoodle dog needs. Bernedoodles are known for their love of food! It is easy to over-feed your puppy. A general rule is to check their ribs. You should be able to feel the ribs easily but not be able to see them at a glance. This is a great way to check on your Bernedoodle dogs and their weight gain. It can be tempting to feed your pup food from the table. This seems innocent but can create poor eating habits down the road. It can also disrupt their digestive systems. You have worked hard to create a healthy diet and want to keep it that way. If a Bernedoodle puppy is hungry, they will eat from their designated spot and will not need anything extra. Do not forget that although the feeding schedule is important, we cannot forget about giving our dogs plenty of exercise! Long walks will encourage a healthy life for your Bernedoodle and for you. Overall health includes diet and exercise. This is another reason why Bernedoodle puppies are a wonderful family dog. They have plenty of energy to keep up with toddlers. It is also a helpful way to encourage your teens to get outside and away from their technology. Bernedoodle Puppy Food — Dog Food Options With a growing amount of dog food brands, it can be hard to pick the best food. As you browse the isles, it is obvious to note that wet food is more expensive than dry food. However, they are both great options! The standard Bernedoodle loves to eat and they are such large breeds that they can eat a lot. Fortunately for dog owners, many dogs love dry food. Wet or raw dog food has less carbohydrates than dry food and can be more hydrating. Many veterinarians suggest that either kind is a great choice! I would find a brand and type that fits into your grocery budget. Bernedoodles tend to eat what they are given. If only this trait would rub off on the human puppies we have. There is nothing wrong with the dry kibble choice! Each type of dog food has the nutrients it needs to help your dog grow. The biggest difference between dry and wet dog food may be the way it is digested. Keep in mind — that as with kids and yourself there may be adjusting to find what is best for your puppy. Start with a small bag the first time you purchase puppy food, and if you are changing them from what they were on at a breeder or in a shelter mix the new food with the previous food for a slower change on their gut. Now that you have been prepared with nutrition knowledge, you are ready to welcome that pup in to the family. Giving them proper puppy and adult dog food will help create a healthy dog. More than food, your Bernedoodle needs love and affection. This will not be difficult at all. Bernedoodles are easy to create a bond with. I know that you will love your Bernedoodle puppy as much as my family does! If you have any questions feel free to leave them in the comments below, and be sure to pin the photo below to find this post later. Related Posts:. They are smart dogs, family-friendly, and very loyal. They can vary in size from 10 pounds to 50 pounds because poodles come in different sizes toy, miniature and standard. Their personalities can vary quite a bit as well, making each Bernedoodle unique! It really depends on which parent breed they take after. They can differ even more the original litter is bred with other Poodles or Bernese Mountain Dogs. Additionally, the Bernedoodle is a newer breed so people are still learning about them with each generation. They usually have curly or at least wavy coats that tend to shed less and cause fewer problems for allergy sufferers. They do not like to be left alone and can develop separation anxiety. Good training can help to prevent this, however, and this quality makes them wonderful canine friends anyway. Feeding Your Bernedoodle Puppy Thorough knowledge of puppy feeding can help deter bad behavior and potential health issues down the road as your puppy blossoms into an adult. Your puppy needs a well-balanced diet just like a human baby. It should contain a combination of proteins from both plant and meat sources, as well as some grains. Also, puppy food and adult dog food are not the same. Puppies require more nutrients and more calories than adult dogs because they are growing so quickly. You can choose between dry food, canned food, cooked food, or raw food. Dry and canned foods are designed to provide all of the nutrients that your puppy needs to grow and be healthy. There are also size-specific food types you can choose from that contain different nutrient amounts or smaller kibble. As puppies transition from nursing to puppy food, it may be easier to feed them a mixture of wet and dry food. This will help them adjust to eating just kibble as they get older. Bernedoodle puppies tend to overeat, so they must be kept on a feeding schedule. Puppies younger than four months can be allowed to graze as needed as they transition from nursing to puppy food. At four months old, Bernedoodle puppies should be fed three times per day, at the same times each day. At six months old, you should transition your Bernedoodle puppy to feedings twice per day instead of three times. Be sure to feed your Bernedoodle puppy early enough in the evening that he has time to digest and go potty or he may have accidents overnight. The amount of food you feed your Bernedoodle puppy can vary greatly based on the size of poodle the Bernese was bred with toy, mini, or standard. Smaller Bernedoodle puppies, those that were bred from toy or miniature poodles, will require much less food than the larger Bernedoodle puppies. Keep an eye on the shape of your puppy. You should be able to see his ribs slightly and his tummy should tuck upward. You should not be able to see his hips, however. Begin feeding your Bernedoodle puppy the smallest amount for their weight, but if he looks underweight, increase that amount gradually. If he looks overweight, decrease his food intake. The first step to determine how much to feed your puppy is to figure out approximately what your puppy will weigh once he is an adult. The following chart show approximately how much to feed your puppy based on weight and age range: Bernedoodle Puppy Feeding Chart 6 weeks to 3 months 4 — 5 months. Despite the fact that they go through a number of stages of growth and development, we tend to consider dogs either puppies or adults. So what are the stages of puppy growth and development? Depending on what methodology you want to follow, there are anywhere from 5 to 7 stages of puppyhood that start at birth and end when your dog reaches adulthood. This is called the imprinting, or critical learning period. For puppies, the imprinting period is during the first 16 weeks of life. Puppies learn more during this time than they can learn in a life time. In fact, such vast change in development happens with each day that passes, the Imprinting Period is further sub-divided into multiple distinct puppy-stages. Learning is already rapidly occurring, making it important that human caretakers provide puppies with specific neurological stimulation, a complex environment, and careful, yet thorough, socialization for proper development and adjustment to living in human society. During this time, there are also very critical lessons that the puppies must learn from their dog moms and siblings. Therefore, puppies should not be removed from their original homes before 7 weeks of age. As soon as your puppy comes home, time is of the essence for you to provide a huge heaping of high quality socialization and schooling. This is the key to creating a socially self-confident, well-behaved puppy that is strongly bonded to you. Fear-Impact Period: During the 2nd Socialization Period, when your puppy is around weeks of age, it is important to be aware of what is known as a Fear-Impact Period. So, protect your puppy from these long-term effects by avoiding bad experiences. That is good parenting! This will typically occur between months of age, but sometimes lasts longer. This is similar to the First Fear-Impact Period. If it does not occur at this time, it will occur later during the Adolescent Period. This is usually a difficult time for many puppy parents, but can be a mess for those with puppies that missed early establishment of boundaries, socialization and training. Just be patient, consistent, and supportive—make sure boundaries are still well in place, review your training, and continue building on your successes. Smaller breed puppies will usually attain maturity by around 1 year of age and large-giant puppies can take up to 2 years. Mentally and socially, a dog may be considered a puppy for up to 4 years!

It has a lovely dual section potty place—one grass, one pea gravel, to give a textured, functional outcome. We think your dog will adore it—whether you use it in the home or outdoors. You just need to buy the right items and assemble them correctly. Using real grass, much liquid is absorbed, making cleaning a breeze. Next, pour topsoil on the plastic-lined tray, then add your patch of grass. Get whatever size washer tray will work best for you, then ceiling grate to match you might need more than one piece of ceiling grate if the washer tray is huge, which is where the zip ties come in. There are several photos included with this plan, so putting it together should be a breeze! Then this plan by the Annoyed Thyroid is the one for you! Once you have your crate, you want to cut the plastic liner to fit it. Then, top with soil, followed by turf! Besides that, you just need to remember to water your grass regularly! Then, line the tray with newspaper, puppy pads, kitty litter, or whatever you fancy. Put the styrene on top, and you have a nice little tray for your indoor dog to use when it needs the bathroom! It screams convenience for you both. Many people live in heavily populated areas with limited to no grass. These potty boxes are fantastic alternatives rather than resorting to messy and expensive puppy pads. Benefits Easy Access Your dog and you will have quick, easy access to the potty without expansive walks, breaks, or preparation. You can essentially treat it like a litter box, scooping it and cleaning it as needed. You can put this box in the house for immediate use or on a patio or balcony. Image Credit: cottonbro, Pexels Your dog can use this potty again and again, permitting you to clean It regularly. Great for Training If you have a pup still learning the ropes, this little box can be a terrific alternative for puppy pads, training your dogs to go on grass instead. They can relieve themselves as needed, especially when their humans are gone or too busy to take them out. Downfalls Requires Maintenance Despite it being reusable, you need to clean it regularly. It can easily get stinky and cause bacteria to build up if you let it go too long. That might not be such a big deal for certain setups, but for others, it could be dripping on the carpet or porch—no one wants that. Image Credit: Mariakray, Pixabay Wrapping Up Ultimately, we think an indoor or on-the-porch potty box is outstanding for specific situations. If you and your dog could benefit from having a small potty spot, we believe the effort is worth the reward. We hope you found a DIY you can start today. We tried to scoop up some for every need and experience level. Which was your pick? See also:. Be prepared to have patience and persistence to make a smooth introduction to a litter box. Pick a location. If you have a large male dog, a corner location works well because you can put splash guards on the adjoining walls to protect against damage from urine spray. Prepare the floors and walls. An indoor litter box for a big dog is going to be messy, at least during the training stages, so protect your home by putting down a tarp or plastic sheeting. Attach additional sheeting to the walls adjacent to the litter box as well. Heavy duty thumbtacks or staples should do the trick. Purchase or repurpose a large, shallow plastic storage bin from a home improvement store, or use a large metal tray from the bottom of a large dog kennel. Line the box with disposable puppy pee pads to make cleanup easier. Fill the box with traditional cat litter or buy dog litter from your local pet supply company. Train your dog to the litter box. Some dogs may be hesitant at first, especially if they're used to going outside. You may even want to transition by placing the litter box outside where your dog normally makes his bathroom and get him used to the idea. Repetition and consistency is key. Offer treats and praise every time your dog uses the litter box. Tips Clean the box every time your dog uses it, and wipe down the walls as necessary to avoid odors. If your dog doesn't like the feel of litter, consider placing artificial turf in the litter box to see if he takes to that. Items You Will Need.

Breeds The link has been copied! Few dogs are as intelligent and loyal as German Shepherds. With its athletic build and remarkable drive, this working breed makes excellent companions, herding dogs, police K-9s, and therapy animals. How much does a German Shepherd cost? The price of a German Shepherd puppy can vary a lot from one breeder to another. German Shepherds are active and need plenty of stimulation. Flea and tick preventatives are a must-have. You might face additional costs such as pet insurance, training classes, boarding fees, or dog walkers. Puppies tend to cost more due to the high demand. However, professional breeders charge a lot more. Professional breeders usually conduct health testing for the parents. Elbow and hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy are the two main tests to look for when adopting a GSD puppy. Prenatal care for the mother can be expensive. These costs can include bloodwork, ultrasounds, and X-rays. Most breeders raise the puppies for the first eight to 12 weeks. They provide nutrition, a living space, socialization, and sometimes early training. Puppies typically receive veterinary care, including a first round of booster shots and a deworming treatment. Colors German Shepherds can come in a few different colors. Black and tan and black and cream are the most common GSD colors. However, there are rarer colors, like black and silver, sable, or black. These colors meet the official breed standards, and a puppy with an unusual color can be worth more. Bloodline and Purity One of the key factors that influences the cost of a GSD puppy is the parents and their pedigrees. A breeder will look at how well the parents match the AKC breed standards. Both parents should be the right height and color. They should have a muscular morphology and the proper head shape. Breeders who are able to trace the ancestry of a litter over several generations and document that all the ancestors are purebred GSDs will charge more. You should also expect to pay more if a breeder can provide health testing information over several generations. Titles are another important factor. Show dogs can receive V, VA, or VA1 titles if they do well at an event and judges determine they meet all the standards of the breed. An IGP3 title indicates that a dog can protect its owner. Parents with IGP or IPO titles produce puppies that are worth more since breeders consider these animals to have excellent potential for training. A breeder who has an excellent reputation and many positive online reviews will attract more prospective dog owners and can afford to charge more. You can protect your dog with a microchip, but there are other steps you can take. The Fi GPS tracking dog collar helps you keep your dog safe. The design is highly resistant and waterproof for durability, and the collar comes with a battery that lasts three months. You can track your pet anywhere and locate them easily if they get lost. There are a few things you should know about this working breed. Personality of the German Shepherd German Shepherds are fiercely loyal. They make excellent guard dogs thanks to their protective instincts. They also make amazing pets who will give you lots of affection. GSDs are reliable and hardworking dogs who thrive if you constantly give them new tasks and challenges. These dogs are extremely versatile. German Shepherds have amazing potential and tend to do extremely well in training thanks to their drive and intelligence. However, they require consistent training and handling since they can be mouthy, chase prey, or become overprotective without the right training. Size and Weight German Shepherds are medium to large dogs. When it comes to weight, a healthy male will weigh 66 to 88 lbs. Lifestyle and Activity Levels German Shepherds are a working breed. Their origin dates back to the 19th century when dog breeder Max Von Stephanitz developed a new dog by breeding different herding dogs. Like all shepherds, GSDs have a strong need to stay active. Due to their athletic build, these dogs need at least two hours of exercise every day. Going for walks might not be sufficient. Your GSD will thrive if you provide plenty of opportunities to use their athletic abilities, including jumping, swimming, or running. Approximate Lifetime Care Costs The total cost of owning a German Shepherd is difficult to estimate since every animal is different. German Shepherds can be expensive. Here are a few tips to help you lower the cost. Look for a breeder who cares about the animals and who does health testing on the parents, but everything else is extra. You should also consider adopting a dog with an unknown lineage. Check local shelters or go online to look at classified ads. Check classified ads to find owners rehoming their pets. If you decide to get a German Shepherd, think about using the Fi GPS dog collar to keep your dog safe, and make sure you can bring your puppy home if she gets lost. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Apart from recurring costs such as dog food, toys, and grooming essentials, a great chunk of your finances must go to routine veterinary care and pet insurance. Annual check-ups should be done on adult German Shepherds to check their physical condition and ensure they are healthy dogs. This involves listening to the heart and checking the ears and eyes. The typical lifespan of a GSD is 7 to 10 years. Other Potential Expenses Owning a dog is already comparable to parenthood. German Shepherds, much like any other dog breed, have other needs that go beyond food, water, and shelter. Your dog will be watched over, fed, and socialized with other dogs. Grooming Services: For your GSD to have a well-maintained coat and appearance, you should take them to a professional grooming salon. They will be cleaned, trimmed, and pampered as they deserve. Emergency Treatment: Dogs grow up so fast. As your German Shepherd puppy gets older, they are more prone to health issues like hip dysplasia. Sudden injuries can also happen that will require immediate medical attention and treatment. This will allow them to join various dog shows and other competitions. Places to Find German Shepherd Puppies for Sale and Adoption Once you plan everything out financially, you are ready to find places where you can buy your German Shepherd puppy. Cheap German Shepherd dogs can be bought from puppy mills or a backyard breeder. Buying from responsible breeders is the best option to get healthy puppies that will grow up to be strong adult dogs. To help on your quest, here is a list of breeders certified by the American Kennel Club that offer high-quality German Shepherd puppies: Vom Ragnar German Shepherds — This is a small kennel located in Illinois dedicated to breeding show-quality German Shepherds with sound temperament and the best condition because they have their puppies undergo health testing. This breeder strives to match their GSD pups to the most suited families. Mittelwest German Shepherds — As a well-renowned breeder, the owner ensures that they only produce show-quality German Shepherd puppies that can serve as show dogs, guard dogs, K-9, and much more. They also import and ship their dogs worldwide. West Coast German Shepherds — If you are located in California, this breeder can offer you a health-tested German Shepherd puppy coming from the best bloodlines. Buying the cheapest puppies online seems tempting, especially if you are on a budget, but you might spend more in the future due to medical expenses. To easily distinguish a responsible breeder from a puppy mill or backyard breeder, check out our puppy buying guide. Are you considering adopting a German Shepherd instead of buying from a breeder? If you are, this list can help you find the perfect GSD pup for you: German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions — Based in North Carolina, this non-profit organization was established to protect and promote the German Shepherd breed. German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County — This volunteer organization is all about placing unwanted, neglected, and abused German Shepherds into permanent, loving homes. Applicants are encouraged to meet up with their chosen dog prior to adoption. Matching their rescue dogs to a suitable owner is their top priority, along with the restoration of their health. For more chances of finding your lifelong companion, check out this list of the 10 best German Shepherd rescues. You can surely find one in your location! Adoption is the cheapest alternative to getting a German Shepherd Dog, and this is more suggested than buying from backyard breeders. Buy high-quality items. You will spend more on replacing them rather than having good products that can last for a longer time. Purchase supplies in bulk. When buying food or treats for your pup, make sure to stock up by buying them in bulk. This can save you a lot of money than buying small bags of kibble or cans of wet food. Keep your dog in excellent shape. To avoid expensive veterinary bills, keep your German Shepherd puppy fit and healthy. Do this by feeding them high-quality dog food equipped with the right nutrients. Groom your GSD at home. Instead of going to a professional groomer, learn to groom your German Shepherd puppy at home. All you need to do is buy the basic grooming tools and research how to groom your dog effectively. Plan your finances accordingly so no one will have to suffer in the long run. They are highly intelligent and loyal dogs that will protect you at all costs. Buying one from a reputable breeder is worth the hefty purchase price than purchasing from backyard breeders or puppy mills. On another note, you can adopt from a local rescue organization, but make sure to ask about any current health conditions that the dog may have. Aside from the financial aspect, make sure you are prepared for the full responsibility of being a German Shepherd puppy owner. Now you know how much German Shepherds cost, are you ready to own one? Share your thoughts in the comments 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. What factors determine the price of a German Shepherd Puppy? The price of a German Shepherd puppy does vary, depending on her age, color, bloodline, litter size, location, as well as breeding cost. German Shepherds obtained from animal shelters and rescue organizations are relatively inexpensive because they charge only enough to cover their costs. Here are the 5 most prominent factors that will affect the price of a German Shepherd: 1. Age Age is the most important factor in determining the price of a German Shepherd Dog. All in all, it has a lot to do with the desirability of a cuddly puppy. Puppies that are only weeks old will cost the most. It is because this marks the beginning of the most precious moments of a puppy. The demand drives up the price. The price of German Shepherd puppies of 12 weeks or older will start to decrease. Adult German Shepherds will be offered at much lower prices because some people see them as less desirable. Another reason is that the new owner may need to set a budget for health issues related to senior dogs. Coat Color Some colors are more expensive than others. For German Shepherds, colors such as white will cost more than the usual black and tan. This is because these rare coat colors are more difficult to breed. Bloodline Although purebred German Shepherds puppies are the most sought-after ones, mixed-breed pups usually cost much less and have the potential to be healthier than many purebreds. In general, German Shepherds have working lines and show lines, totaling five different variations. We will get into them later in this article. Litter size It refers to the number of puppies in a litter. Usually, the more the number of puppies in a litter, the cheaper the price will become. Location The location from where you purchase your German Shepherd can actually affect how much you pay. Areas with a lower cost of living, or places where there is less demand will typically charge lower prices than more populated cities. Certain states or cities may even have more regulations on breeding which may increase the cost, thus the price of a German Shepherd pup. And these all come at a cost for the breeders. What are the different variations of the German Shepherd bloodline and their prices? While the German Shepherd is a dog breed of its own, you may probably stumble upon different variations. Purebred German Shepherds come in many different sizes, colors, coloration patterns, and body styles. In general, German Shepherds are divided into working lines and show lines, totaling five different variations. Here is a four-minute video from which you can learn about their variations: 1. They have a distinctive angulation with their back legs shorter than their front legs, thinner bones, and significantly smaller heads. They come in quite a few colors, mostly solid with occasional bi-color variations, including black and tan saddle, solid back, solid white, and saddle sable. But their obedient and playful character make them fantastic pets. There are certain measurement minimums for their hips and elbows. This results in a stunning, very specific, and uniform appearance. These dogs have a very strong, pronounced build with a black and tan saddle, and solid back. They make good house protectors and need a lot of exercises and to be trained frequently. These dogs are very social. So they are perfect for families with kids. This is the line of GSD you would normally see in movies. They are also closest to the original breed that was bred and developed by Max von Stephanitz, who is acknowledged as the father of German Shepherd Dogs. With a stable temperament, they excel in working jobs, and also make awesome family pets. Rigid control of the original DDR breed prevents the gene poll from diluting. They must be free from any history of hip dysplasia, among other health conditions, to be able to reproduce. This resulted in a very distinct look — with large heads, large bones, and a shiny dark coat. The Czech further tightened the breeding standards, resulting in arguably the most intense breed of German Shepherd available to date. But they are extremely loyal and obedient, with a pleasant temperament. They could be the best guard dog to protect people. But they are extremely rare nowadays. Other factors that affect the cost of a German Shepherd A puppy whose parents and often grandparents and other relatives are hunting champions has the potential to excel in these areas as well. And it will cost you more than any puppy who is the offspring of just average parents. And the most expensive German Shepherds are those adults with proven records as show dogs, K9, or breeding dogs. What is a reasonable price for a German Shepherd puppy? Reputable breeders, when pricing their German Shepherd puppies, must factor in the cost of breeding, feeding, raising, and caring for the pups as well as their mother. German Shepherds are considered healthy dogs that can live many years. You must be able to pay for these dogs every month of their lives. For the most part, providing your dog with a lot of exercise and high-quality food will prevent the dog from developing unforeseen health issues. You will need to buy a dog-safe toothpaste, dog-safe shampoo, and certain medications, such as heartworm prevention, to keep your dog healthy its entire life. Not only do you have to feed your German Shepherd a lot of food, but you want to feed your dog food that is high quality and healthy. As long as your dog does not have any known illnesses or issues, you should not have to pay monthly prices. At the minimum, you should take your German Shepherd for an annual visit, assuming it is healthy. You also need to pay for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Most of these medications last for 1 to 3 months at a time. It is completely up to you whether or not you decide to get pet insurance. If you are interested in getting health insurance for your new pet, Lemonade offers customizable insurance plans and responsive customer service. If you do not want to pay for pet insurance, you can simply set up a savings account instead. So long as you have a house and a yard for your dog to play, the home environment is generally suitable for dogs. Some environmental maintenance things you will need to buy include doggie bags. You need these if you take your dog for a walk or if you have a yard that you have to maintain. You may also need to pay for carpet cleaner, deodorizer, and other items to keep the house clean, despite your heavy shedding German Shepherd. This means that your German Shepherd can help you out when you are in a pinch, but it also means that you need to provide your German Shepherd ample entertainment, or else your dog could become destructive. At the very minimum, you need to buy heavy-duty toys for your German Shepherd. German Shepherds can be really rough with their toys. So, we recommend some sort of brand specific for rough-playing dogs, such as Kong. These boxes will offer toys, treats, and more for your dog, but these boxes can be pretty expensive too. Additional Costs to Factor In In addition to initial costs and monthly payments, there are some other additional factors you need to think about. For starters, obedience training is really important for dogs of this size. Obedience training can be a bit expensive at first, but it will be worth it in the long run. You need to pay for a pet sitter or kennel whenever you go on vacations and your dog does not come with you. If you are buying a German Shepherd puppy, you may also have to pay to replace or fix items the puppy damages. Think about accidents or unforeseen illnesses too. These can cost a whole lot in vet visits. Owning a German Shepherd on a Budget If you want a German Shepherd but are worried about destroying your budget, there are ways that you can own one of these wonderful dogs without spending a fortune either. Unfortunately, there is little you can change about the price of these dogs up front, but you can save on the monthly expenses. The most important tip for taking care of a German Shepherd on a budget is to know when to splurge. When it comes to dog food, make sure to select high-quality food. This will be more expensive upfront, but it will ensure that your dog is healthy for as long as possible, resulting in fewer bills. Splurging on heavy-duty toys is another great idea. These toys will cost more at first, but they should last much longer than cheap ones. For instance, there are a lot of coupons and promo codes you can use when purchasing toys, food, and other items for your German Shepherd. Even if you find coupons, only spend money on the essentials. Not to mention, buy crates and beds that are suitable for the dog as it grows. Many people make the mistake of buying crates and beds suitable for the puppy, but the puppy soon outgrows them. The initial cost primarily accounts for the dog itself and any other items required when bringing the dog home for the first time. Even after the German Shepherd has made your home its home, you will still have to pay some pretty hefty bills for the remainder of its life. Although the initial and monthly costs for this dog are a bit high, they are required for this dog to live a happy life. If you cannot afford to provide a German Shepherd the sort of life it needs and deserves, simply do not get a German Shepherd. If your breeder had not run these genetic tests on your dog—or if you adopt a German Shepherd from a rescue or shelter, you can run the Embark Dog DNA Test using a simple saliva test you can perform at home. Dogs with CLAD, type III typically exhibit symptoms such as recurrent ear infections, skin infections, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections. Dogs with DM first lose coordination in their hind legs, then they lose muscle mass and eventually the ability to walk. It is caused by a lack of one of the proteins needed for blood to clot properly. Dogs with hemophilia A will often suffer from uncontrolled bleeding, most commonly into the joints. Uric acid is a waste product that is normally eliminated from the body through the kidneys. When the kidneys are not able to remove enough uric acid, it builds up in the blood and can cause health problems. Dogs with hyperuricosuria are at risk for developing bladder stones, kidney stones, and other health problems. P-glycoprotein is involved in the transport of drugs and other molecules across cell membranes. Drugs that are known to cause adverse reactions in MDR1 dogs include digoxin, ivermectin, loperamide, and milbemycin. There are several different types of MPS, each caused by a deficiency in a specific enzyme needed to break down mucopolysaccharides. It is caused by a genetic mutation that impairs the ability of the blood to clot properly. This can lead to frequent and sometimes severe bleeding events which can be difficult to control, even with the help of medications. Dogs with this condition are at an increased risk for bleeding and may require lifelong monitoring and medical management. Symptoms include weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, and increased water consumption. Affected dogs have problems with the development of their skin, hair, nails, and teeth. They may also have problems with sweating and the function of their tears and salivary glands. Dogs with this disorder usually have a very thin coat of hair, often with areas that are bald or have very thin hair. Their skin may be dry and cracked, and they may develop sores on their skin. Nails may be abnormally shaped or missing altogether, and teeth may be missing or poorly developed. Dogs with X-linked ectodermal dysplasia often experience overheating. Attend a sanctioned dog show and talk with breeders and competitors for recommendations. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations regarding reputable breeders. Check the Facebook page of the breeder and read through the comments. Remember, however, that comments can be deleted by the page owner. The breeder should be happy to share the name and contact information for customers. Ask questions. Lots of questions. The breeder should be glad to share the test results from the health tests and screenings and should be happy to let you meet at least the mother if not the sire as well of the German Shepherd Dog puppies. Ask how often the dogs are bred. Ask to tour the kennels. Are they well maintained? Do the dogs look healthy? Beware of operations that will not let you tour the kennels and breeders that want to meet you in a parking lot to hand over the puppy. Be prepared for questions. The breeder should ask YOU questions as well; be suspicious if the breeder has no questions about your past history with pets, your living situation, etc. The breeder should want to know how much experience you have with herding breeds, what your training plans are and your plans for exercising the dog. Ask if the breeder will take the German Shepherd puppy—or adult dog—back if necessary. Ask for a contract. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. German Shepherd breeders may adopt out of the area but, nonetheless, you will want to go to the breeder to meet the parents, view the kennels and bring home your puppy in person. This will add to your expenses—but breeders that transport a puppy by air are putting the dog at risk. If you want to buy a German Shepherd Dog from an online breeder, please think again. There are numerous scams; people spend thousands of dollars for a dog and never receive a puppy. AKC warns potential pet parents to be wary of any seller asking for payment by Venmo, in gift cards or as a wire transfer. Dogs purchased from puppy mills can mean years of heartache and expensive veterinary care—and perpetuation of a cruel industry. The pros of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder: You may be able to select a puppy—including a choice of gender. A reputable breeder will be passionate about German Shepherds and will a resource for years to come. The cons of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder You will pay far more for a cattle dog from a breeder than a rescue or shelter. If you find a breeder who has German Shepherd puppies for sale at prices much lower than you are seeing from other breeders, you must suspect you are dealing with a backyard breeder who has not done health screening, with an online seller who is operating a puppy mill or with someone who is running a scam. You will need to wait until puppies are available. You will need to do your own due diligence to select a reputable breeder. German Shepherd Dogs in rescues are far less expensive that those at a breeder. Puppies under a year old will be the most costly. This group provides funding to a network of GSD rescues — they do not have dogs themselves for adoption. They have a list of affiliated rescues that can help located adoptable GSDs in your region. A breed rescue is, like the name suggests, a pet rescue that is specifically for one breed of dog. These are generally small non-profit groups that operate through a foster system of volunteers who love the breed. German Shepherd rescues specialize in German Shepherds of all ages; some have primarily purebred German Shepherds while others may also have adoptable Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherds. How to Find Breed Rescues Along with the list mentioned above, many breed rescues list their adoptable dogs on large adoption sites such as:. If you are looking to buy a German Shepherd puppy, then you should find one from a reputable breeder. While these puppies are more expensive, a reputable breeder can guarantee the health and behavior of the puppy. These dogs are prone to genetic diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia. These health issues can be avoided by genetically testing the parents, which is something reputable breeders usually do. When improperly raised puppies might have behavioral issues and can cause a lot of damage if they bite someone. A good breeder will have their dogs pass a temperament test. German Shepherd Dog Price While most dogs in shelters are adults, adopting a German Shepherd is a great way to find a dog without supporting unethical breeding. Sometimes these hardworking shepherd dogs are given up because they are very energetic. Not everyone is able to take care of a dog that needs a lot of attention and exercise. Some people buy a German Shepherd puppy without understanding the work involved in caring for this breed. Why Are They So Expensive? Breeding a healthy and well-behaved German Shepherd puppy is not easy! It is not as simple as crossing German Shepherds together. However, if you want a puppy of good temperament that is genetically healthy, there are other costs involved in the breeding and raising. This is especially important for a German Shepherd. You do not want a puppy that grows up to be aggressive or that suffers from mobility issues due to hip and elbow dysplasia. Papers A paperless German Shepherd puppy will be the cheapest. Typically breeders invest as little as possible in these pups. You get a puppy just how it is, without knowing its pedigree or background. A puppy with health certifications, temperament test results, and registration papers costs more than this. However, those papers will be beneficial not just for you, but also the puppy. This means your puppy meets the breed standard and is a purebred dog. The last thing you want is to buy a German Shepherd wolf-mix thinking it is purebred. Veterinarian Visits Reputable breeders not only genetically health test the parents, but they will also take the puppy to see a vet before 8 weeks for a basic health check. During these visits breeders will also have the puppies vaccinated, dewormed and placed on preventatives. When you buy a German Shepherd puppy from a reputable breeder, they will offer you a health guarantee. Most will also be able to provide you proof that the puppy has passed a temperament test. Training Some breeders also take the time to socialize and train their puppies. Many experienced breeders have a specialized training program that begins the process of potty training and basic obedience. This will mean you have an easier time housetraining your puppy, but you will have to pay for their efforts! These are all good signs that the puppy you are buying is of good quality. This will mean you are more likely to avoid any temperament issues or having to pay for vet visits to diagnose and treat hip and elbow dysplasia. Bloodlines Breeders who focus on breeding championship bloodlines will charge more for their puppies. A family might not need such a high-quality German Shepherd. All they need is a healthy and well-behaved puppy that will bring them years of happiness. However, there are many people who need a working dog or show dog. The most expensive dogs are those that are bred to be champions or protective and hard-working. Some breeders spend thousands of dollars just training a world class service dog. A family friendly guard dog with a protective temperament is not easy to breed consistently. Breeders have to factor in not just the genetics, but also the temperament and training. Origin The most expensive types of German Shepherds are those that are imported directly from Germany. Breeders must pay to stud and import these dogs which is not cheap. Since the German Shepherd breed originated in Germany, breeders in the US import dogs from Germany to breed puppies with a purebred lineage. Breeding in Europe is more regulated so the bloodlines are better protected. These puppies are known as European German Shepherds and are slightly different. They are smaller, have straighter backs and brighter coat colors. Some people think they look similar to a belgian malinois. Most European dogs are bred to be working dogs, while American dogs are more frequently bred for companionship. This is the same for American and German Rottweilers and American vs. European Dobermans. All of these breeder will be able to provide: Pedigree and kennel club registration. Documents that certify the puppy is free of any disease and has been checked by a veterinarian. A health warranty. Health records that guarantee the parents are genetically healthy and will not pass on elbow or hip dysplasia. These German Shepherd breeders all breed their puppies in accordance with the breed standard. None of them will sell puppies that are not registered with the American Kennel Club. Another good place to start looking for breeders is the American Kennel Club marketplace. Many of these puppies are bred to be family dogs and come with their papers. As you start looking into more well-known breeders or those that produce dogs of championship or working bloodlines, then the price of a German Shepherd starts to increase. Julia was a German Shepherd bred by the Harrison K-9 facility, highly trained in protection. She could also understand commands in three different languages. Her intelligence, as well as her ability to protect, were why she was priced so highly. Julia was bought by a billionaire businessman in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The rarest coat color is panda, which is why it is also the most expensive. These German Shepherds are black and white. It is a piebald pattern where the black coat is splotched with large patches of white. Some puppies can have other colors like tan, instead of white. Panda dogs are purebred, but the rarity of this mutation makes them very hard to find. There are very few breeders that sell the panda color. And he actually cost nothing! By the end of his life, Rin Tin Tin had appeared in 27 Hollywood films. Rin Tin Tin most notably helped Warner Bros. But these dogs come in more than just this classic color! There are 11 colors that are recognized by the breed standard. Check out the table below for some German Shepherd prices based on coat color. The tan color covers the chest, belly and legs. White A white puppy has a furry coat that is entirely white, allowing it to blend in with the snow. Its eyes and nose are black as coal. Black A black German Shepherd has a coat that is entirely black. Any other color would classify them as a bi-color. Blue A blue German Shepherd is not literally blue, but has a gray color with a bluish hue. Sable The sable color is one of the most common colors, but is a bit more interesting than the black and tan. The hairs of these dogs have bands of tan and black, giving them a very unique coloring. Some of the factors that contribute to this cost are: Food. If a breeder tries to tell you that his puppies are healthy because their parents never had any issues — do not believe him! It is impossible to diagnose e. Where can you find cheap German Shepherd Dogs? The question is — do you want to purchase a dog with questionable health and temperament? These dogs often are not purebred German Shepherd puppies, but are mixed with e. Labradors, Pitbulls or Golden Retrievers. If you end up with a dog with genetically based health conditions however, be prepared to spend a multiple of the original purchase price on vet costs! Temperament and behavior While a lot of good manners can be taught through consistent training, temperament is genetic to a certain level. When you buy an extra cheap German Shepherd puppy, you not only get a dog with questionable health, but also with unpredictable temperament! Even aggression can be genetic and can be passed on from the mom and dad to the offspring. You can save yourself a lot of time, nerves and money spent on future behavioral training by getting a well-bred and more expensive dog. What is the most expensive type of German Shepherd? Like in many dog breeds, certain rare German Shepherd colors are much more expensive than the most common colors and patterns. It is much more important that your puppy has a sound temperament and fits in well with your family and lifestyle than that he has a certain rare look. These dogs are mutts German Shepherds mixed with Miniature Poodles, Shelties or other smaller breeds. Once more, be certain to not decide on your future dog based on looks alone. A stable temperament and good health is much more integral than a certain size or weight. Working lines vs show lines The German Shepherd was originally bred as a working dog. Since his original use as a shepherd dog however, he has filled many different roles — from guarding properties over being used in the show ring to participating in Schutzhund and IPO trails. Depending on which lines your German Shepherd Dog comes from, the prices can vary a lot! Show line German Shepherds are the dogs that are bred for conformation shows. These are the type of dogs you should decide on if you would like a shepherd puppy as a pet and companion animal. If you are interested in using your German Shepherd as a protection dog and to participate in IPO trials, you should pick one from working lines. There are a lot of highly successful working line breeders both in North America and Europe. For this price, you get an absolutely flawless dog with extensive skills and perfect obedience. Some US dog owners interested in Schutzhund choose to import a puppy from old European working lines. While this might sound insanely high for a pet dog owner, for Schutzhund enthusiasts it is a typical price for a pedigreed German Shepherd pup. How much does it cost a month to own a German Shepherd? This will cover the basics: high-quality food and regular vet checks. Some German Shepherd owners spend considerably more money. Professional grooming is necessary for many German Shepherd owners, as these dogs shed heavily. This breeds tends to exhibit several behavioral issues that can be difficult to fix for first-time dog owners, including: Separation anxiety.

Articles Sit. Heal German Shepherd Hip Dysplasia Signs and Treatments Muscular, intelligent, and loyal, German shepherds are steadfast guardians and all-purpose workers. Highly trainable and obedient, German shepherds provide a range of services—excelling as show dogs and household companions, as well as military and search and rescue animals. Exuding confidence, this breed is royalty of the dog family. They are susceptible, however, to challenging hip and joint issues like hip dysplasia any time from puppyhood all the way through maturation. As with many large breed dogs, German shepherds are prone to canine hip dysplasia CHD , a dog skeletal condition that can be inherited or caused by a traumatic fracture or other environmental factors. CHD occurs from malformation of the ball and joint socket of one or both hips the hip joint is called the coxofemoral joint. If so, it maybe be because of breeding. The exaggerated hind leg angulation is often bred into the dog because of standards that dictate rear legs upper and lower thighs should come as close to a degree angle as possible. Along these same lines, a sloping back causes hindquarters to become more angulate and, thus, prone to lower back pain. These bent legs could point toward one of many health problems, one of which is hip dysplasia. Although irreversible, canine hip dysplasia can be monitored and treated to reduce chronic pain. According to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals , .The progression of it and the treatment options available depend on a number of factors, including the degree of misalignment and age of the dog. CHD has a range of signs, depending on the severity of the disease and degree of looseness in the joint. The severity also ranges from mild to extreme pain—some German shepherds even have to use a wheelchair. CHD Treatment Options Dog hip dysplasia surgery for severe cases in medium to large dogs can be expensive. If invasive surgery is not the best choice for your dog, look into non-surgical, conservative management options, such as dog leg braces, physical therapy, weight control, acupuncture, anti-inflammatories, and massage therapy. Ortho Dog specializes in flexible, adjustable, and affordable dog leg braces. Additionally, leg braces for hip dysplasia may slow the progression of this chronic issue. Is a Hip Hound Brace right for your pup? Designed for dogs who suffer from arthritis and mild to moderate hip dysplasia. Below are four common disorders of the hip and joint commonly seen in this breed: Degenerative Myelopathy As a German shepherd owner, you have likely heard of the fatal, chronic, and progressive disease called degenerative myelopathy that is most prevalent in this breed. Typically apparent between the ages of , degenerative myelopathy is a neurological disorder that affects the spinal cord and muscle coordination, ultimately leading to paralysis of the back legs within months. CHD shares several symptoms with early stages of degenerative myelopathy, including difficulty rising and jumping, and progressive weakness of hind limbs. As with any signs that something may be off with your dog, contact your veterinarian for a full exam. Canine Myasthenia Gravis A rare neuromuscular disease, canine myasthenia gravis is a disorder of the signal transmission between nerves and muscles, resulting in progressive muscle weakness, and fatigue with mild exercise. This disease is not typically confused with CHD because the signs tend to show up on the face more than the hindquarters. This incorrect movement can put a strain on their hips, which causes them to walk with an irregular gait. Our Hock Holder brace offers stabilization and support to the hock to help relieve stress. Osteoarthritis Most often seen in senior dogs, osteoarthritis is the inflammation of the hip joints due to cartilage deterioration. You may notice your dog moving a bit more slowly and having trouble with stairs. With less cartilage, bones can grind against each other and cause inflammation. Much like a human wearing a wrist or hand brace for arthritis, the Ortho Dog Hip Hound brace limits the movement of the joint, which helps with the pain. With dysplasia, the end of a bone no longer fits snugly into the socket of a joint, causing the bone to move around more than it should. This leads to pain and inflammation. In elbow dysplasia, uneven growth of the radius and ulna lower front leg bones can damage cartilage in the elbow joint. Dysplasia may cause your German Shepherd to walk or run abnormally. If he has hip dysplasia, he may swivel his hips or have a bunny hop when he walks or runs. With painful and uncomfortable joints, your German Shepherd will probably not want to move around very much. For example, he may no longer want to go up and down the stairs, or be more hesitant to do so. Go to source In general, your German Shepherd may not want to do any running or jumping. If he becomes aggressive e. He may become irritable enough to bite you, or at least try to. When you start noticing signs of dysplasia in your German Shepherd, take him to your veterinarian. Your German Shepherd will need to be sedated for the x-rays and orthopedic exam, particularly for the hip. Her hips came back from OFA with an "excellent" rating. However, I am concerned because when she runs at a "gallop" she bunny hops and looks to me like she lacks power in her back end. She can't keep up with other dogs that I think she sould be able to outrun. Does anyone know why the bunny hop? Maybe she had some sort of injury or strain? I will give it a try. She has always run this way. No injury or strain, no limping, good straight sits most of the time. Boy what a bummer. No one really knows the cause i would hazard a guess partly to do with the feeding or it may be genitic but not proven However if the dog is in no pain you cannot do much about it if it has always been that way, so long as it is in no pain just let it be the happy dog it is, However any thoughts of breeding with it should not be thought about Steve by ForFoxyRoxy on 17 September - Hi Steve, KInda tricky. Hope I did it right. Both front feet just stayed in position and she ended up rolling off to the side. Both rear feet sprung out but after 2 seconds. I did it on the carpet. Is that the best place? I will look up Wobblers. She has only exhibited pain twice when playing with another dogs. Once a young make got on top of her you know in the mating position. She backed him off as if in pain. The other time was with a young American Bulldog that got pretty rough playing with her and she did the same thing Thanks Cara. He runs great. Jumps great and shows no hip problems. However at 13 months he still bunny hops when running at full speed like a rabbit both back legs move at the same time. Also when he goes up steps real fast and he can. Sometimes he will bunny hop-leap up the steps to get up even faster. He bunny hop leaps up 4 or so steps st once. Is this bunny hopping something I should be concerned about?? I have seen on line and told this kind of bunny hopping is an early warning sign of impending hip problems. Thanx Much Bill.Marie replied: Thanks for your question. I can understand your concerns. As German Shepherds are a breed that is known to have a predisposition towards hip problems, I can see how an odd gait could make you a little worried. As far as I know, however, there is no evidence that shows that dogs who have an odd gait as a puppy will be more likely to get hip dysplasia. Dogs with hip dysplasia usually do not end up showing signs of hip dysplasia until they are quite a bit older. Often, by two years of age there can be changes that can be seen on an xray to indicate that hip dysplasia is likely to happen years down the road, but usually there is no outward sign of problems with the hips at this point. In my career I have seen a couple of dogs who had problems with their hips when they were as young as 13 months. But, I wouldn't say that bunny hopping would make me concerned. Now, if Navoc was showing signs of pain such as limping or whining while he was walking or jumping then I would be more concerned. It's never a bad idea to have your vet take a look and even consider xrays, but I don't think that the bunny hopping that you have described is anything to worry about. January 10, For Pups With Short Attention Spans… German Shepherds are prone to a number of health issues that potential owners should be aware of. Some health conditions include, hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, degenerative myelopathy, eyesight issues, and cancer. Intelligent, noble, and naturally protective, German shepherds guard our homes—and our hearts. These gentle beasts are often bred for agility and herding. These two bones grind and grate together—think something like a mortar and pestle—causing inflammation and pain to the hip joints. You may begin to see your GSD bunny hopping or limping due to stiffness in their hind leg. Your active pup may even begin to resist going for walks to their favorite park or roughhousing with their other furry friends. Treatment Unfortunately, there is no way to cure hip dysplasia. In fact, it can cause a rather large amount of pain and discomfort to your pup. The German Shepherd breed and other large breeds have genetic predispositions towards this condition. This inherited condition occurs when the elbow joint develops abnormally during a German shepherd puppy growth spurt, causing the bones and cartilage in the joints to rub together. German shepherd dog with this condition may have difficulty performing physical activity due to their swollen and painful joints, like: Running Jumping Treatment Treatment options for elbow dysplasia are identical to those for hip dysplasia—give your growing pup plenty of exercise and joint supplements and consider veterinarian intervention. When your GSD eats too quickly, they can inhale a large amount of air that may cause their stomach to twist and expand. Your companion may attempt to tell you something is wrong by vomiting or drooling excessively. You may also notice their stomachs start to swell. Treatment and Prevention If your GSD has gastric dilation or volvulus, they will most likely need to visit a vet, and receive fluids, medicine, and regular exercise to dispel the gas. To prevent bloating, you may need to feed your GSD small meals throughout the day and avoid strenuous exercise immediately after eating. You can also buy special bowls that make your working dog slow down as they eat. This disorder is quite severe and will eventually progress to complete paralysis of the: Bladder Bowels Limbs German shepherds with this condition typically start showing signs around 8 to 9 years old with the weakening of one or both hind limbs. Over weeks or months, this progressive degenerative disorder will spread to the front limbs. Treatment There is currently no cure for degenerative myelopathy. Physical therapy has been shown to delay the degeneration of the limbs but will not stop the progression completely. Pannus is a genetic condition that affects the cornea of the eye. GSDs with this condition will develop a cloudy, pink mass that covers and scars the eye. Pannus typically occurs in older German Shepherds, and if left untreated, your GSD may experience blindness. Treatment Similar to other genetic disorders, treatment of pannus will only stall its progression and will not offer a permanent cure. Topical corticosteroids and antibiotics may be used to treat the health condition directly. The most common types of cancer include:1 Osteosarcoma — This is a type of bone cancer that produces aggressive tumors that progressively damage the bones of the limbs, skull, vertebrae, ribs, vertebrae, and pelvis. Hemangiocarcinoma — GSDs are genetically predisposed to hemangiocarcinoma. This cancer develops in the blood vessels of GSDs and can target the heart, liver, spleen, and skin. Lymphoma — This cancer goes after the entire immune system of GSDs. Though aggressive, this cancer is not particularly painful to your pup. These growths will often feel lumpy or hard to the touch. If the tumor is malignant, your dog may also experience abnormal discharge, panting, or loss of appetite. According to a study from the Royal Veterinary College, German Shepherds are the second most common dog breed to experience pet health disorders as a direct result of their breeding traits. It all comes down to their unique disposition—selective breeding favors German shepherds with low hindquarters and sloping backs.

Welcoming a Bernedoodle Puppy: How to Prepare with Proper Supplies February 13, Bernedoodles are lovable, playful dogs that like spending time outside as much as they enjoy curling up on the couch. They are excellent family dogs and have a special affection for children. Because they are the offspring of poodles, they also inherit a nearly hypoallergenic coat. The Bernedoodle, a hybrid between a Bernese Mountain dog and a poodle, was first bred in .They were raised primarily to be family pets, and thrive when showered with affection and cuddles. When it comes to Bernedoodles, they are equally at home on the sofa or trekking with their owners. They might be stubborn and uncooperative at first, but quickly learn to control their behavior. Preparation These preparatory tasks will help you and your house to welcome a new dog. Before bringing home a new puppy, certain considerations should be taken into account. These include where the puppy will spend its first night, who will be responsible for its care, and whether you have the necessary materials on hand. Keep your cool and avoid bringing home a Bernedoodle when it is not the right moment. Make sure you do your homework beforehand. Learn how to care for and nurture a puppy before you bring one home. Many adjustments will be necessary for your house to accommodate this new family member. And if finding the right items seems hard, Doodle websites like WeLoveDoodles can help you with the required information. It is common practice to teach dogs to sleep in crates to give them a sense of security. Pick a spot for your dog to eat. Keep their food where they can reach it. Baby gates can be used to keep your puppy out of particular areas of your house. Ensure your house is safe for your puppy by performing proper inspections, such as toxic plants, cleaning chemicals, and wires. Buy the Right Supplies Your new puppy will need a place to sleep, such as a kennel or a bed. Bowls for food and drink are a necessity. You cannot take them on a stroll without a leash, tag, harness, or any other type of leash attachment. When training your puppy, you should use a harness. If you are a frequent traveler, a vehicle restraint is a must for the protection of your dog. There are poo bags and puppy pads for both indoor and outdoor usage. Food Check with the shelter or breeder on food the Bernedoodle has been used to. Purchase the same bag and keep it on hand at your home. When it comes to welcoming your puppy to their new home, nothing beats a delicious dinner and some playtime! Having their food brand on hand will save you the stress of running to the store to find the brand they need. Choose a vet-recommended brand specifically designed for young puppies and ease them into it with a bit of new food mixed in and gradually increase over time. Bed If you are house training your Bernedoodle, we suggest that you choose a bed that takes up the majority of the available space in your cage. Collar You should start training your puppy to wear a collar as soon as possible. Treats After using the potty, your dog probably wants a big snuggle and some playfulness. Grooming Tools Every weeks, you should take your Bernedoodle to a professional groomer to get their hair trimmed. The sooner you start brushing your dog, the easier it will be for them to adapt to it. Brushing can be done as frequently or as little as you choose. Also, you will need to get bath supplies for your dog. Dogs should be bathed correctly and with the right items. Here is a list of supplies you should get before welcoming a Bernedoodle puppy. Puppy food. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. The biggest challenge is the first few weeks. We recommend that you plan on using some vacation time during the first few weeks to get your puppy off to a great start. Put the hard work in early, and you can sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labor after! We see the biggest failures occur when people are not willing to invest the time needed during the first few weeks. In these weeks, your puppy will become crate trained, housebroken, and continue learning their basic commands sit, down, stay and come. We will have already started this in our home but you must continue putting the hard work in the first few weeks. Yes that could mean some sleepless nights but it will be over before you know it. Once Your Puppy is Home: Once your puppy is home, enjoy it. First and foremost just know that this will not last for a long period of time. Puppyhood can be so rewarding but you have to be patient and be their leader. Bernedoodles must be trained using a very loving and patient approach. We feed ours about 2. See our puppy contract in header above, click the link, and we have the feeding schedule spelled out there. If you want a housebroken puppy, and fast, the bottom line is that you need to get your puppy out frequently. We take ours out every minutes, and more frequently right after meals. After they drink we always allow them access to clean fresh water or eat we will take them out every minutes until they have both urinated and defecated. The bottom line, is that if you want to housebreak your puppy fast, you need to prevent as many accidents as possible. Never, ever, use newspaper or puppy pads if you want to do this the right way. Bottom line is that the puppies will quickly learn that outside is where they are supposed to go to the bathroom. Every puppy is different, and some will have faster metabolisms. You need to watch for the visual cues your puppy will tell you when they have to go increased pacing, head down sniffing.Also we set up our puppy area using baby fences that is next to the door that they will use to go in and out of the house to go potty. They will quickly learn to tell you when they have to go by either sitting or standing next to the door, or in some cases, scratching at the door.Some people have had success training their dogs to paw at some bells that you can tether up at the back door as well. Bottom line, is that the more you're on top of this early, the quicker they will learn the deal of housebreaking. In most cases we have had our puppies housebroken within a day or two, but this means we are always with the puppies the first few weeks until they have the hang of it. Once they do, they won't be perfect and accidents will still happen and usually the persons mistake. DO NOT scold the dog. Just quickly scoop up the dog and take them outside. When the puppies are young, we start telling them to go potty for pee and poo poo for.You can use any other command but this is what we have used successfully. Training them to go on command is hugely helpful and starts imprinting on the dog what they need to do outside. As the puppies start moving around outside we just say "Go Potty".We keep repeating this until they give the characteristic squat of urinating or hump backed and crouched position of defecating. As soon as they are done at the very moment, and not a second later we excitedly praise the puppy by saying "Good Potty" or "Good Poo Poo". You can also first say "Yes! The Bernedoodle puppies want to please you and they catch on to this very quickly. You continue to repeat this process everytime they go outside and they will get the hang of it. This is extremely useful especially when you're on long road trips or in a rush to leave the house for a bit! We typically remove food after the puppies have had all the opportunity they want to feed and usually have the last feeding around 7 pm but leave water out all the time until about 8 pm. We will continue to walk them every minutes unless they are sleeping and we try to get them some good romping around time at this point so they are good and tired for bed time. We use crates at night time and during the day on occassion to get them used to the crate. We give them one last walk around pm. When they are weeks of age, expect to get up once in the early morning hours to walk them, but just let them go to the bathroom, and then promptly return them to their crate. Be strong with this! Don't give in to any whining or barking or the like. If you do, they have conditioned you and the crate will become a dust collector. The first few nights the puppies may literally go bizerk on you.Be strong! Don't do anything more than this. We had one puppy that cried and pawed at the crate door the whole night and we thought for sure this would be the one that wasn't going to crate train. Well by day three, she was perfect. You just need to know that except on very, very, very rare occassion, your puppy is going to learn to settle and sleep in their crate. You just have to be mentally strong, get some ear plugs, give your puppies maybe a sound machine and some toys, and try to get some rest. We just get one of the XL size crates and then safely secure an object to give them less space.This way you won't have to get a bigger crate when they grow. Although we give them an open fenced in area that we supervise to play in, we will put them in the crate several times during the day for about an hour so that they can get used to the routine. They may fight it at first, but will learn to love it very soon. Just don't quit on this very important step. Don't over do this at the young ages and just incorporate training throughout the day as a general part of their daily routine. SO if you want to teach them sit, just put a piece of food in your hand, palm facing up, and begin moving the food slightly above their head and backward while saying "sit".We will have already started this with them but keep it going! Just be patient, enjoy puppyhood, have a great attitude, and you'll develop what will be your favorite dog ever! However there are some things you can do to help. First, have a toy or bone within reach and when the puppy begins mouthing a hand or arm or something just say "OUCH" and then give them the toy or bone. Do not hit nor tap on the puppies snout. Just a firm and loud "OUCH!! Puppies are exploring and play biting each other during the first 8 weeks and they learn how hard they can and can not bite. Human flesh, without the thick coat, is a lot more sensitive and the puppy needs to learn what is and what is not appropriate. Don't be afraid to raise your voice when the mouthing is too hard. Or if the puppy is doing good licking then say "Good kisses" or whatever praise statement you want to use. But really encourage the good behavior. The frequency of puppy mouthing will naturally decrease but you need to teach them acceptable force of their bite.We are always here for you and will help partner with you during this process. Please never, ever hesitate to drop us a line with any questions or concerns. We want to see you have great success with your new family member!! By Kaitlyn Arford. Reviewed by Barri J. Morrison, DVM on Jun. This is directly related to their lineage, or the breed of their parents. The higher the number, the further away you are from the simple Bernese Mountain Dog-Poodle mix. Standard Bernedoodles weigh 61— pounds, stand up to 29 inches tall, and can live 12—15 years. Mini Bernedoodles, full-grown, weigh 20—45 pounds, stand up to 22 inches tall, and live 14—16 years. Toy Bernedoodles weigh less than 20 pounds and stand 12—17 inches tall. These dogs live the longest, up to 18 years. For example, Toy and Miniature Bernedoodles can each live happily in a small apartment. But a Standard Bernedoodle might prefer more space to stretch their legs and spread out when sleeping on the floor. But these dogs are also very adaptable, so a well-exercised Bernedoodle—of any size—can happily fit into most families. Bernedoodle Health Issues The Bernedoodle lifespan ranges 12—18 years, depending on how big your dog is. As a general rule, smaller dogs live longer than larger dogs. These dogs can inherit conditions from both of their parent breeds, but Miniatures might have different health issues arise than Standards. Before you bring your puppy home, check with your Bernedoodle breeder to get a complete health history for your pup and their parents. Breeders should vaccinate dogs, screen for different health conditions, and be able to provide a family history. Both are inherited conditions that, if left untreated, will lead to arthritis. Hip and elbow dysplasia can be treated by keeping your Bernedoodle at a healthy weight, as obesity puts more pressure on their joints. However, hip and elbow dysplasia may also require medications, joint supplements , or even surgery if the case is severe. Dogs with PRA experience declining eyesight that eventually leads to blindness. Symptoms include: Clumsiness Cataracts Night blindness this is often the first sign There is no treatment for PRA, but blind dogs can live long and happy lives with proper care. Allergies Although Bernedoodles are known to be a good fit for people with allergies, this breed still experiences allergies of their own. Their allergies can be from food or the environment , and signs include persistent itching or licking, rashes, skin and ear infections, and hair loss. If you notice any of these symptoms, talk to your vet. They can help you come up with a plan for identifying and treating the allergy. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus GDV Large dogs with a deep chest, such as Standard Bernedoodles, are at risk for developing gastric dilatation-volvulus , a severe form of bloat in dogs. Both the stomach and the spleen can be affected; when the stomach twists the spleen gets entangled as well. This can occur in dogs who eat too quickly or who eat one big meal for the day. Symptoms of GDV include: Inability to settle. Purebreds have been bred for generations following a special blueprint—the breed standard, which is the written description of the ideal physical and temperamental traits of the breed. For this reason, purebred dogs are very standardized, with predictable height and weight, body structure, color, coat type, and temperament. Because the Bernedoodle is a hybrid and not a purebred dog, it is not recognized by any of the reputable purebred dog registries such as the American Kennel Club or United Kennel Club. The Bernedoodle also does not have an official breed standard, so there is a lot of variation in how individual Bernedoodles look and act. Bernedoodles may be first generation crosses called F1 , second generation F2 , third generation F3 and so on. The resulting puppies in an F1 litter are quite variable. Some may look more like Bernese Mountain Dogs and some may look more like pooodles. Some puppies might look like a mix between the two parent breeds, and some might look nothing like either parent breed. Coat type and level of shedding can be all over the map in a litter of F1 Bernedoodle puppies. F2 Bernedoodles result by crossing two F1 Bernedoodles. F2 Bernedoodles also have variable coat types. Some breeders introduce more poodle into the bloodlines to help achieve more consistency in coat type. This is called backcrossing and is indicated by a B for instance, F2B. Bernedoodle Care Grooming requirements for the Bernedoodle vary depending on the type of coat. Although most Bernedoodles have wavy to curly coats, some have straighter coats. Coats that are more straight than wavy tend to shed more, so need more frequent brushing—daily or every other day—to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Curlier coats shed less, but also need regular brushing to keep the coat untangled. Brush wavy and curly coats a few times a week. Like poodles, wavy-and curly-coated Bernedoodles need trimming from a professional groomer every four to eight weeks. If you see excessive dirt or redness in the ears schedule a veterinary visit. Bernedoodles are smart, but how trainable they are depends on if they inherited the more agreeable nature of the poodle or the stubborn side of the Bernese Mountain Dog. Either way, positive training methods like clicker training paired with tasty treat rewards will help you get the best results from your Bernedoodle. Bernedoodles need plenty of daily exercise, including one or two walks a day plus off-leash games of fetch in a safely enclosed space like a fenced yard or dog park. Athletic Bernedoodles with biddable temperaments might also enjoy training for fun dog sports like agility, flyball, obedience, rally and dock jumping. Most purebred dogs have certain inherited health disorders in their family history. Crossing Bernese Mountain Dogs with poodles means the puppies can potentially inherit any of the genetic diseases common to either breed. Responsible breeders start with healthy, well-bred adult purebred dogs and test them for the genetic diseases common to their breed before breeding them together. Reputable breeders should also test their adult Bernedoodle hybrids before breeding them to decrease the probability that the puppies will be affected by genetic issues. Responsible breeders should also offer a health guarantee on their puppies should the puppy develop a genetic disease later in life. Feed measured meals twice a day rather than free feeding leaving food out all the time. Standard Bernedoodle puppies that may grow to be giant sized by adulthood should eat a food formulated for large-breed puppies to encourage slow and steady growth. Talk to your breeder or veterinarian to get a recommendation for a healthy food for your Bernedoodle, as well as an ideal healthy weight for your adult Bernedoodle. Not a huge deal, but good to avoid if possible. FYI we have Nationwide and are pretty happy with it so far. Socialization classes: Socialization classes with other dogs the same age and same vaccine level were a huge win for us. Knowing she will confidently run up to and play with any dog makes us so happy and is the result of just a few of these classes. Sign up for these early as spots are limited, especially during Covid times. Vet appointment: Similar to socialization classes, vet appointments are hard to come by with all these new puppies. Once we knew what date we were getting Moose, we made her first vet check up for the next day. Training plan: Start figuring out how you want to approach training. We did all of our training at home from Zak George videos on YouTube. Here are the essential items for the first few weeks. Crate : You likely hear about crate training a lot. We can post more about crates if people are interested! The two worked really well together. We also adjusted her playpen from a small circle around her crate to blocking off part of the living room and eventually blocking off half of the apartment. Bed optional : I would wait on this one, honestly! So many things to buy and set up at once. Food, snacks, etc. Kibble: Find out what food your dog has been having with the breeder or shelter. We chose to keep Moose on the recommended kibble. Treats : Again, you have years to buy more treats. We did a lot of dehydrated chicken before expanding to other meats. We used ice cream bowls the first few months because her bowls were way too large for her servings. Many people swear by potty pads, but we mostly stuck with grass and tanbark patches. These made it easy for her to transition to pottying outside once vaccinated. Lots more to say here so let us know if you have questions. Potty spray : Accidents are going to happen. Poop bags : These are a good one to get a subscription on because you know.We used them a ton before Moose was fully vaccinated if she went anywhere public to help reduce the risk of a disease etc. Brush : Start brushing your puppy in the first few days so they get used to it. Lightweight ones are great while your pup is small. We got a rope one we loved, but it was too heavy for Moose until she was 6 months old. We ended up getting a few of the same one but you can mix and match. Start with smaller, lighter toys. Learn which toys your dog is having the most fun with, then buy more. Rotate them around so they still feel new and exciting. We got a simple soft one for carrying her around before she had her vaccines. It also gave us more peace of mind and confidence leaving her alone for short periods of time without worrying that she was disturbing our neighbors. Have questions or topics you want to hear more about? Let us know in comments below! February 7, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? When it comes to having the best of both worlds, Bernedoodles are it! These mixed breed designers pups were bred to be the perfect companion dog and quickly rose up in the ranks of popular puppy breeds over the last two decades! How do you know if a Bernedoodle is a right fit for you and your family? A Brief Background on Bernedoodles! Sherry Rupke of Swissridge Kennels claims to be the very first breeder that purposely cross-bred two purebreeds: Standard Poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog. Since this breed is only approximately two decades old, the American Kennel Club still does not consider the Bernedoodle a purebred. Nevertheless, the rise in popularity has also led to many more breeders producing these pups. If you were interested in bringing a Bernedoodle home, while there are many reputable breeders that specialize in these pups, you can also find these pups in shelters or rescue groups that focus on Poodles and Bernese Mountain Dogs, to potentially find these mixed pups! What are Bernedoodle Breed Characteristics? When it comes to range, few breeds can beat the Bernedoodle! These pups come in a variety of sizes and coat colors. Bernedoodles come in a few different sizes: tiny, miniature, medium, and standard. They can range in weight from ten pounds in the tiny category all the way to ninety pounds in the standard category. Along with variety in sizes, their coats can be within a range from completely black, black and white, black and brown, or tri-colored with patches of either black, white, or brown. Probably the most common coat and markings people seek when looking for a Bernedoodle puppy is the tri-color variety that is in closer resemblance to the Bernese Mountain Dog. Depending on which side of their genetic makeup your pup takes after, some Bernedoodle pups coats can be curly, or wavy like the Standard Poodle and not shed as much making them a good candidate for parents who suffer from allergies. Other Bernedoodle pups can have straighter coats that have a tendency to shed more and are not hypoallergenic. What are Bernedoodles Personalities like? The Puppy Academy student, Hamilton! Goofy, smart, loyal to their families, and friendly, these pups have the best personality traits from both sides! Most Bernedoodles parents pick these pups because of their good demeanors and temperaments. Your puppy may lean toward the Standard Poodle side, depicting traits of high intelligence, hard-working, and loyal. Or your puppy can lean toward the Bernese Mountain Dog which is good-natured, confident, and affectionate. Some Bernese Mountain Dogs can be stubborn, in particular during their adolescent phase, and a bit aloof or standoffish toward strangers. With good basic obedience and early socialization, any Bernedoodle can make a great fit for a family and develop friendly demeanors toward new people. While these pups are considered to be working dogs and do require daily exercise, they are also content with hanging out with you at home. Moderate exercises such as one to two longer walks, with play sessions in between, a day is sufficient to burn off energy and keep your pup content! Tiny and Mini Bernedoodles are better equipment for urban environment living whereas Medium to Standard sized Bernedoodles would need more space to exercise and play. No matter the size of your Bernedoodle puppy, they are going to need adequate exercise, which is why they do really well with active families! Tiny and Mini Bernedoodles will require a bit less activity and can adapt to tighter living spaces that come with urban environments such as apartments or condos. As for Medium to Standard-sized Bernedoodles which are taller and wider and can grow upwards of ninety pounds, they may be bumping into more coffee tables and have trouble fitting in the same hallway as you in smaller dwellings! For all sizes, access to either a fenced-in yard or a nearby park you can take them to is ideal for this breed! How to Care for Your Bernedoodle Puppy! When it comes to caring for your new Bernedoodle puppy, start off by scheduling a first veterinarian visit within the first week of bringing your puppy home! Like many large breed working dogs, Bernedoodle may suffer from joint dysplasia. Bernese Mountain Dogs have been known to suffer blood disorders, some cancers, and progressive retinal atrophy. Generally, Bernedoodles are healthy and sturdy especially if they come from a reputable breeder. General care for your Bernedoodle puppy will include brushing their teeth to avoid tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Floppy ears means they may be susceptible to ear infections so regularly check and clean them to avoid these from happening. Because their coat types can vary, depending on your puppy, if they have a curly coat you may need to frequently brush them to avoid matting. We recommend that you take your puppy to a professional groomer every few months to get their fur trimmed. The Puppy Academy student, Cali! Create a Daily Puppy Training Schedule Bernedoodle puppies are smart and easily trained but they can have a stubborn streak as they get into their adolescence. Creating early structure at home can help mitigate this stubbornness by establishing daily routines your puppy can expect and also establish you as leader. Since Bernedoodles are made up of two intelligent hard-working breeds, basic obedience training with food positive reinforcement will benefit their behavioral growth! Socialize Your Bernedoodle Puppy with People, Children, and Other Pets Bernedoodles have friendly dispositions and make great family dogs, however, they can be standoffish to new people as they get older. Use Play to Help Train Them Tap into their playful nature and use your playtime sessions together to teach good manners! For example, use Fetch to teach your Bernedoodle how to come to you, Drop-it to give the toy back, then ask them to sit to teach polite manners as they learn to wait until you toss the toy again for them to get. Although Bernedoodles love to work, they sometimes need a bit more motivation! This can come with the aid of food rewards, and providing variation to their training routines to keep them engaged. Enrolling your puppy in training classes, or working with them by yourself at home using a program like our online puppy school will give you a plan to follow with basic training routines to teach your Bernedoodle good manners, as well as keep challenging them along the way so they never get bored, and advance their skillset! Did you recently bring home a Bernedoodle puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! One thing is certain — your life will never be the same again once you bring this little bundle of happiness home. Dogs change your life in ways nothing else can — a Mini Bernedoodle is an affectionate and loving companion. Bringing home a puppy also means you are responsible for their well-being. Here are some handy tips on how to take care of and train your Mini Bernedoodle puppy. Diet and Nutrition There is no universal food when it comes to dog foods. What is suitable for one dog might lead to allergies or digestive problems in another. Just make sure you only provide high-quality dog food for your Mini Bernedoodle puppy for them to stay healthy. Your veterinarian might also have some specific suggestions. The feeding quantity will depend on the age and size of your MiniBernedoodle pup. Here is a rough feeding guide: puppy food meals till 6 months 2 puppy food meals a day post that Change to adult food once they are a year old The general rule of thumb is to feed 20 calories per pound of body weight. For example, a pound Bernedoodle puppy needs calories per day. Activity and Exercise Mini Bernedoodle puppies are very active and need a lot of exercise. You can take your Mini Bernedoodle puppy for regular walks, hiking, running, and even swimming. These pups love water. The critical point is to have regular playtimes with your Mini Bernedoodle pups, or they can become restless. If you cannot take them for walks, do have playtimes at home. Play fetch in the yard or make them run around the house. Just make sure they have enough activity throughout the day. MiniBernedoodles enjoy playing in the snow as well! Grooming Mini Bernedoodles will need to be brushed a couple times a week to prevent tangles and matting. This also distributes oils in their coat to keep in looking shiny and healthy. You Mini Berndoodle will also need the occasional bath — rugged outdoor play may find them a bit dirty. When you bath your minibernedoodle use a gentle shampoo that is meant for dogs. Be careful to keep soap out of their eyes and give them treats to make bath time more fun. Every couple months your mini will need to visit the pet salon for a day for relaxation. A skilled groomer will give your mini bernedoodle a bath, trim her hair, trim their nails and express their anal glands. Your veterinarian will give your pup a thorough examination, help keep you on track with immunizations and may suggest heart worm and flea tick preventatives. Being an active participant in your pets health is crucial — so be ready with any questions or concerns you have when you visit your veterinarian. Mental Health Mini Bernedoodle puppies are like Velcro; they like staying close to their humans. If you work long hours away from home, a Mini Bernedoodle puppy may not be a good choice. They tend to suffer from separation anxiety and become depressed if they are left alone for prolonged periods. You need to keep them close, they will enjoy coming along on trips to the park and pet shop. Mini Bernedoodle pups are also very intelligent, given they are bred from poodles. Poodles are the second most intelligent dog breed in the world. Make sure you give them a wide variety of toys and play mentally stimulating games with them. They will be happy, healthy, and will thrive if you can provide them with such an environment. Laura:

How to Train a week-old Labrador Puppy? Training older dogs is quite a difficult or nearly impossible task. The age of 2 months or 8 weeks is the best time for your pup to begin its training. This is because your pup has grown enough to be independent and can also understand the cues of the owner. How to Train an 8-week-old Labrador Puppy? You must keep things simple in the beginning because the pups are already learning the behavior of their owners. Below are some basic things that you can teach to your 2-month-old Labrador puppy. Follow Me — This command can be taught by walking a few steps here and there while holding a treat. This will allow you to go out to different places or visit friends comfortably with your dog. Deject Biting — You will use 2 treats to train your dog. You can rarely use a simple punishment, like ignoring, if the biting was hard. At this age, it is assumed that a Labrador puppy is already familiar with some basic things. Hence, you can teach your canine friend some simple commands. Heal — As of now, your dog should be habitual to follow you. In this command, you will use a dog leash and grab it in your left hand. Recall — This command is used to recall a pup to repeat the previously performed training. In this command, we can use a whistle, clapping, or any other sound as a cue. More Socialization — Make your Lab more comfortable in crowded places. Also, visit friends frequently so that your pooch can become comfortable around strange people. Then, add more twists by taking an object and using the touch command so that the pup touches the target. At this age, a Lab is considered mature enough to respond to some positioning commands as well as verbal instructions. Sit and Stay — Simply use a treat while your pup is in a standing position and move it towards the floor. For teaching this command, hold the treat for some time before feeding after your pooch has sat on the ground. Fetch — A 4-month-old Labrador puppy knows how to get to a target. If the puppy goes to the object and brings it back, a treat is offered. It is recommended to use the favorite toy of your pup as the target. Stand — Take a treat and move it up while the pup is in a sitting position. For this purpose, you can use a recall command with some specific sound for it. Strengthen Earlier Trainings — You should focus on all the previous learning firmly. Spend some quality time with your puppy to make this into a strong relationship. At this age, you can start teaching your dog some advanced commands. Leave it — It is used when the dog is biting down on something and not leaving it. You can also use this command to keep your pooch safe from potential troubles. Once some sort of discipline is implemented, you can remove the treats from the training and use appreciation. Wait — This is used when your dog is running continuously or doing rigorous exercise. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Commencing Marker Training your chocolate labrador pup Start Marker Training at 8 weeks of age When you take your 8 week old labrador pup to their new home, you should commence their obedience training immediately. Just repetitively say yes and give your pup a treat immediately. Then familiarise your labrador pup with a leash. Clip the leash to their collar and allow the pup to roam a little. This way they will adjust to its weight and the sensation around their neck. If you try to walk your pup straight away, they will simply resist. Don't pull and command, but rather cultivate a positive experience with a leash. Secondly, I recommend that you feed your new labrador pup with a leash attached until they learn to sit. This will establish you as the master and immediately teach the pup restraint. Do not give the food bowl to your dog without firstly bringing him under your control. Even with my mature dogs, I will not let them feed except on command. Feeding should never be random. Hold the leash close to the labrador pup's neck and push their rear end down to the seated position. When they are sitting, enthusiastically praise your pup and, only then, reward their obedience with food. Remember, food should always represent a reward for good behaviour. They hear tones and frequencies. When we train them, we are conditioning them to associate a particular sound with a response so that it means something to them. Labrador puppies like all dogs learn contextually and by consistent repetition. In this way, a labrador pup learns to associate sounds with responses and rewards. This is why you should reward your pup immediately when they have performed a command correctly, even if they did not intend to do so. In the early stages, I prefer to teach a dog to 'sit,' then move on to 'staying' before teaching them to 'come'. This is especially so while they are still a puppy. Remember that a 12 month old dog is still a pup. They are regularly hyperactive and overstimulated. The goal is to get your labrador puppy into a calm and submissive state as often as you can. Ensure you are demonstrating a calm and composed, yet assertive demeanor. When you are in charge, your labrador pup will willingly sit and look to you for direction. Exercise patience and be repetitive but don't overdo it. Remember that the time you put in now will help you bond with your young dog, even if they do not appear to be advancing quickly. It will be a very worthwhile investment in a long term relationship for years to come. Of these three basic commands, the 'stay' command will take more time to teach. When this is mastered and entrenched in your dog's obedience, it can save your dog from danger. You are teaching them associations, not English words. Sit Teaching your new labrador pup to sit should begin immediately when you take it home. Begin by feeding them on a leash. Hold the leash close to the pup's neck. Give the pup the 'sit' command, but don't reward them with food until they are sitting. In this way you have begun to condition the pup to the 'sit' command. This requires patience at meal time. Remember that a labrador pup requires 4 feeds a day for the first phase of their life. This gives you ample opportunity for repetition and reward. When the dog sits, reward them with a treat and a lot of enthusiastic praise. Each time they repeat the behaviour, reward them with a treat again. You can train your labrador pup for short intervals at any time. Carry a few small pieces of food. Call your pup, then reward them with lots of affirmation and a piece of food when they comply. Teach them to sit by offering a small treat. Say 'sit', then let them smell the food as you move your hand over their head. A labrador pup will automatically lift the nose in the air to follow the food. As the head moves up and back, the pup will tend to sit. Give lots of praise and gradually increase repetition as they associate the word 'sit' with the food. Stay Your Labrador pup will need to understand the 'sit' command before you advance to 'stay'. Before you give the 'stay' command, make sure that the dog is seated. To keep the dog in the sitting position, you will use your hand with the fingers pointing up and the palm in front of their face. To begin with, position yourself about half a metre away from your pup's face. Direct the 'stay' command calmly, with your hand up. Slowly take half a step back and remain there for 3 seconds to begin with. Then step back towards to the dog. Wait for another 3 sec and then reward your dog with a treat. Repeat this 5 times. Reward them at the end of each 'stay' routine by praising them enthusiastically and giving them a treat. Don't praise or reward the dog until they have remained seated in front of you for a minimum of 3 seconds when you return. Your puppy should not move a millimetre until you give the reward. If your dog breaks early, you have gone too far. Simply return to your dog, reset them in the seated position and begin the routine again. Come It is important to make sure your Labrador understands the 'stay' command before you begin the recall or 'come' command. Make sure you pup is seated before you give the 'come' command. As your walk away from your pup, maintain eye contact. Don't back away too far too soon. If the pup breaks early, give the 'come' command to establish association. When you call your dog to 'come', do not let them jump up on you. If the dog wants to stand on its back legs and reach up, place the palm of your hand on their head and hold it away from you. I suggest that you don't say 'no! The down command should be used as a more constructive training command. If your pup jumps up, make your disapproval known by using a 'dog' sound; 'Ahhh! If you find yourself becoming frustrated, then put the pup away and start again tomorrow. Don't take it personally and don't blame the dog. Corrections are necessary, but not out of frustration or anger. If it's not working, then look at your consistency and your communication. If the training is a positive experience then you will strengthen the bonding and learning process. Develop consistent communication and trust with your dog in the process of the training. Labrador pups love to please and they will be very proud of themselves when they accomplish the command and gain your approval. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the bathroom at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialization Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the yard Besides the gnomes and questionable yard furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own yard is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and yard to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favorite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. Puppy training development after 6 months It is very tempting to get carried away with puppy training. Your young do is so willing to please and such fun to be around. It is important to go at a happy pace for you both. Positive reinforcement training is the right choice for your puppy because there are no negative consequences to getting something wrong. But you can still both suffer from burnout and frustration if you try to reach the later puppy training stages without totally aceing the earlier developments. Your Puppy Training Schedule This may not be exactly the same for each puppy, especially with retrieving which is more Labrador specific. However, it gives you a rough idea. Constantly changing direction. Stopping frequently for cuddles and rewards. This means I blow the recall whistle whenever the puppy runs towards me, no compulsion, and no whistle unless the recall is already underway. Socialisation: Lots almost daily of outings to different places rural and urban carried Visits to family and friends. Bite inhibition: Discourage hard biting, allow mouthing. Working with food: Learning how to take food gently without snatching or grabbing at the treat pot. I still give the puppy lots of encouragement by running away as soon as I blow the whistle. Socialisation: More socialisation, at least twice a week to busy public places. Bite inhibition: Discourage hard biting, allow gentle mouthing. Retrieving: Encourage chase and pick up retrieve drive. Hand touch: I teach all new puppies to touch my hand with their noses. This is a great foundation for other skills. Recall: Puppy recall continues, reduce my run to a walk, avoid any distractions. Still frequently blow the recall whenever the pup runs towards me of her own free will. Socialisation: From ground level after vaccination. No other leash walking at all Bite inhibition: No biting, gentle mouthing allowed. Retrieving: Continue to build drive. Positions: I introduce three positions — sit, stand, down. What to expect from your 3 month old puppy Most three month old puppies will be sleeping through the night. And will be having less potty training accidents in the house. There are a few potty training problems that arise at this age, and they are all covered in 15 potty training problems solved. Biting is a big shock and a big problem for many new Lab puppy parents so do check out our complete guide to biting , and join the forum for help and support. Help encourage your puppy to stay in their bed while you are eating. I have a pot of dog treats on our kitchen table, and whenever we sit down to a meal, the puppy gets a treat each time she steps into her basket. Just a treat for stepping in there. What to expect from your 4 month old puppy Your 4 month old puppy will be pretty much potty trained, but accidents still happen if they are left alone too long. Biting is usually starting to subside now, and many four month old puppies will be able to mouth at your hand without hurting you. At this point I start to discourage all mouthing. I teach every puppy to let me touch her face or approach her with my hand, food, a leash etc while holding eye contact and not grabbing at me, or at what is in my hand. This is the age at which people often start to push forward with training. Your 4 month old puppy is capable of quite a lot. There is nothing wrong with teaching your puppy different cues and even some tricks. I recommend you still avoid long duration activities at this point as they are a common stumbling point with puppies young enough to have a short attention span. A ten second sit is ample. Add mild distractions Recall: Fade additional cues. Begin to whistle the pup and stand still. Add mild distractions. Clicker train to polish this in more mouthy puppies. No commands are needed for this. Gradual introduction of distractions. Advanced puppy training begins in earnest This is where I start a programme of sporting training with my Labs. You can begin raising your standards and expectations, asking for longer and more complex behaviors. Teaching your puppy to walk to heel nicely for longer distance and past all kinds of distractions and temptations. Or teaching your puppy to sit and stay for longer periods of time, and even while you go out of sight or while other dogs play nearby. What to expect from your six month old puppy Six months is a common time for people to have a lot of questions and to be struggling with a few challenges. This is now a very bouncy, quite powerful and rapidly maturing young dog. And you may need to patch up a few holes in his training or manners. We have a great article for owners of six month old Lab puppies. Print Raising a retriever puppy like the pros Your Labrador puppy can seem small and fragile during those first few weeks home from the breeder. Labrador puppies will learn quickly about acceptable and unacceptable behavior those first few weeks, if you, the owner, are willing to set and enforce boundaries. Here is the training you should be working on with your week-old Labrador puppy. About this series of posts This is post three of a step-by-step training and socialization program for Labrador puppies. If you read our first post , you know that this series follows our training of Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to raise and train her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. In this case, Bubba will be with us for almost a year and a half. Training and socialization for week-old Labrador puppy — week three home Your week-old puppy has been with your family for approximately 3 weeks now. This week you should start noticing some bigger changes with your puppy. Here are some of the changes I notice with Bubba. First, she is growing fast! Bubba is almost ready for a new collar already. I have loosened her current collar twice, and there is no more room to expand it. She is also learning a lot. Bubba is also becoming more personable. She likes and has more interest in people now and wants to be petted and scratched more often. Training equipment for Lab puppy We added a couple new training tools this week. But a thicker check cord will also work. We use this check cord for longer outside marks and assistant-marks which I will discuss more in a bit. Puppy sized canvas or light-weight plastic bumpers In week two, we introduced formal retrieving in a hallway in the house. In week three, we move outside with retrieving and introduce assistant throws, so it is helpful to have a few more bumpers. Puppy training that will continue Much of the training I have been working on for the past two weeks with Bubba will continue into this week and beyond. Dog training is not something that has a definitive end-date. For instance, you teach your puppy to SIT and then you must work and practice that command daily or weekly, often for months before the response to the command is solid. But even once the response is solid, you cannot completely stop training. If you stop training, even an older dog, the dog can lose the previous training. So, realize that you are never done working with your dog, especially on obedience training. Some areas that we will continue training Bubba on are: Crate training Bubba is doing great at crate training. She rarely makes any noise while in her crate and settles down quickly after being put into her crate. In the upcoming weeks, we will work towards getting Bubba to enter her crate on command. Looking for more information on crate training? Housebreaking Housebreaking Bubba is going well. We have caught her in a few accidents, but she already seems to understand that she is not supposed to go potty inside. This does not mean that she is done housebreaking. We still expect accidents and will for a few months, so we watch her carefully while she is running around in the house. We also praise her for behaviors like going to the door and tapping the door or whining at the door. These behaviors are rewarded with us taking her outside to go potty. When she goes potty outside, we praise her and then take her right back in. We want her to start understanding that these cue behaviors will get her out to go potty and that is all. Looking for more information on housebreaking? But we will also add a few new ones. We will use this while teaching our puppy the SIT command. It also will be used going forward, anytime we are done working on structured obedience work. We will release the dog from formal work with the OKAY command. But we also use it to mean go to a certain place, such as on a mat or stand. Or, when we want her to go into her crate or kennel. This is an associative command, meaning the puppy will learn the command through our repetition of the word as we tie it to a behavior. But over time, she will make the association and will perform it on her own. This is very important especially if you ever plan on doing more advanced training with your retriever. You will use whatever your dogs name is. A few commands that we will continue to work on this week We will continue to work on obedience commands this week and in the weeks to come. Each week we will expect a little more and better compliance and performance to the command. She is sitting when I put the leash and chain collar on her and when I am taking it off. This week we also added SIT before eating. We only make her SIT for a few seconds; we are working on control. She does not SIT on her own yet, but she will be doing that within a week or so I would guess. Right now, I grab her collar and say SIT. In week three, I have a slightly higher expectation. On walks, I make her walk right beside me for a minute or two using the HEEL command before releasing her and letting her run back and forth a bit. This tells me that she understands the command. Then release her. If every time your puppy comes to you, you put her away or take something away from her, soon your puppy will not want to come to you. You must work hard to make coming to you a good experience for your puppy. So, call her, praise her when she comes and release. Remember: Never use a HERE command if you are not in the position of being able to enforce the command. Make every effort to socialize your puppy You should continue to take steps to socialize your week-old puppy. Anything you can think of. The more things and situations you expose your puppy to, the better your puppy will be equipped to adjust and learn in the future. Learn more about socialization. Hand throws with a puppy bumper you are throwing out a bumper done outside will carry a lot more distraction than retrieves in a hallway. Just pick up the bumper and try again tomorrow. When retrieving outside, make sure you have a long foot rope attached to your puppy. Never try to do retrieves outside without a rope. You will have problems and encourage bad behaviors. You must have a way to get the puppy to come back to you, otherwise you should not be doing retrieves outside. Once your puppy is doing well retrieving outside, you are ready to introduce assistant marks. Introduction to assistant marks The most important thing we worked on with Bubba this week is assistant marks. Assistant marks are retrieves where someone else is throwing the bumper, not you. This teaches your puppy to watch out in the field for a mark. It is very rare that a duck will come from behind you, fly over your head and you shoot it. The ducks and pheasants will be falling in front of you, so the dog must learn to look out and watch for the mark. We start assistant marks on very short grass with white plugs so that the puppy can clearly see the item on the ground. We hold the puppy in a SIT position facing a thrower who is about 20 feet from you. When your puppy picks up the bumper, immediately start calling her back to you. Remember, you should have the foot check cord on her so you can pull the puppy in if needed. Then, take the bumper from her, throw it behind you, make your puppy sit facing the thrower again and repeat. Only do retrieves and then call it a day. Soon your puppy will learn this game and love it. They will start facing the thrower on their own and sitting and waiting for a mark. Final thoughts on training for your week-old Labrador puppy week-old puppies are so eager to learn, so be sure and take advantage of this enthusiasm to teach new concepts and enforce previous ones. Continue to teach your puppy to handle more and more pressure and correction while maintaining a good attitude. Lastly, assistant marks are a big deal. Once a dog learns this part of the game, you can work to increase the distance and complexity of the marks. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving. Print Preparing for the teething stage If you have been following my puppy training program since the beginning, you will have some down time for the next month or so. This is not to mean that you will not be working with your puppy at all, but only means that you will not be adding any new training. For the next month or two, you should continue working on basic obedience. I will discuss this more later in the post but Here is the training for your 4-month-old Labrador puppy. About this series of posts This is post eight of a step-by-step training and socialization program for Labrador puppies. If you read our first post , you know that this series follows our training of Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to raise and train her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. In this case, Bubba will be with us for almost a year and a half. Bubba Training and socialization for four-month-old Labrador puppy Here are the things we worked on during the past two weeks while training Bubba. Working on self-control and restraint If you have ever been pushed out of the way as your large dog rushes to get outside or inside ahead of you, you know how that feels. It can be downright dangerous, and there is no reason to allow it. You can start eliminating these future problems by spending time now, teaching your 4-month-old puppy to have self-control and restraint. There is a vast array of situations that you can use to teach your puppy self-control. The first and easiest one to teach is sitting before eating. Simply do not give your puppy their food until they SIT calmly. Here are some other opportunities. Sitting before getting a leash on and off Sitting by door, waiting to go outside or inside, until released from SIT Staying in crate or kennel until released, even with door open All these training opportunities work toward the same thing — self-control. There are probably many more situations that would also apply, use your imagination, and teach your puppy to listen and exert restraint in all situations. Bubba has learned all these lessons well. She understands that she must wait for a release command and that if she SITS very still the release comes sooner. Obedience training your 4-month-old puppy We continue to work on obedience training using a chain collar and heeling stick. Bubba has come a long way regarding heeling. She is not perfect, but she does understand the command. However, remote SIT is not going well. Bubba really struggles to SIT still, even for a few seconds. I had to be reminded that Bubba is a chocolate lab. Chocolate labs tend to mature much slower than blacks or yellows, and Bubba is proving that to be true. Given this, Bubba will probably need some more maturity before I can expect too much from her on obedience. Well, let me rephase. Bubba knows the HERE command but still struggles to respond to it consistently. This is a huge source of contention for me, but again, Bubba is a chocolate and is very immature. A halt on retrieving Up until now we have been doing retrieving daily with Bubba, but as she enters the fourth month, we are increasing aware that she will be teething very soon. Because of this, we will be stopping retrieving until we can confirm that all her adult teeth are in. This concerns a lot of owners; they are concerned that their puppy will forget how to retrieve or will stop wanting to retrieve. We have never had this happen. Final thoughts on training for your 4-month-old Labrador puppy As your puppy approaches four months of age, it is good to take a moment to reflect on all the progress you have made in terms of training. These are important steps that will lead your puppy down a path of becoming a happy, healthy family dog and hunting companion. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving. Training your 4-month-old Labrador puppy? You should take your puppy outdoors and let him exercise his socialization potential at a young age. Visiting friends and family is one way to go about it. You can also spot a dog park and carry him there. Remember that your pet is still learning to follow directions and walk with you. You cannot expect him to cover long distances. The best way to avoid this is to take them far enough from the house and ensure they have a positive outside experience. It is worth noting that you should do this as often as you can, preferably daily. Start Potty Training It would be best to start potty training your Lab puppy the first day you bring him home. Start by showing your pup where you want him to potty, such as a sectioned-off area of your yard or garden. A good idea is to cordon off a small area and add some bark chippings. Next, you need a potty training schedule such as first thing in the morning, after mealtimes and play, and hourly for young pups. Many owners use dog crates to help with house training. I have a step-by-step guide on Labrador puppy crate training where you can learn tons more. Discourage Biting If you follow my blog, you know I am against punishment-oriented training. If you train your dog young enough to avoid harsh bites, you will not need punishment-driven discipline strategies. In any case, using physical force or yelling at your pup will only instill fear and distrust and can cause aggression in your dog. You can also check out my article, How to Discipline a Labrador , for greater insight into this topic. Instead, you can wait until your Labrador bites during a positive activity and then discontinue it. It will anchor the consequence better. Follow up using positive reinforcement by rewarding the correct behavior with a treat. Your Labrador will quickly learn that displaying good behavior reaps nice things. Puppies need to learn their bite inhibition soft-mouth by continuing the excellent work their mother and siblings taught them. Learn Bite Inhibition Training! Instill Patience You must use your best judgment when training your dog to be patient. Generally speaking, your Labrador will be mature enough to learn self-control by the tenth week. You can use a clicker or a whistle to teach your puppy to assume the natural heel position. Chances are, at first, your Labrador will try to change his pace to be behind you because of the force of habit. Walking in areas familiar to your dog will eliminate this problem. While you previously trained him to assume a heel position, you can also teach him these techniques. You may notice that your puppy can tell your words apart by the thirteenth week. So by the time he is four months old, you can use the position cues and positive reinforcement to get your dog to follow. These included whistling, clapping, or saying a specific word to indicate that your Labrador is doing a good job, typically followed by a well-deserved treat. Now is the time to see whether the anchors work! Where you previously whistled when your Lab ran towards you, now you must whistle, so he begins his run. This is the start of his Labrador recall training. Teaching good recall is an ongoing process. My dog was around 12 months old before seeing a noticeable improvement in her recall. Please avoid forcing the dog, as that only introduces confusion. Build Comfort With Crowds — Work on Socialization You have trained your Labrador to acknowledge close friends and family in the past few weeks. While this enables the puppy to be more social when you have visitors, a grown dog must learn to walk outdoors without acting out. This transition must be gradual, and try to keep experiences positive. Whether it is a cuddle, a pat, attention, or something tasty, you must teach your pup target training , for example, to touch a target with a specific part of his body. Remember that your Lab may end up biting or clawing to communicate if you do not teach him more acceptable communication methods. Here, I recommend teaching your Labrador to touch your hand with his nose. Ultimately, this is an excellent replacement for bites! Hand targeting is fun to teach, helps your pup build trust, and gets him using his brain! You have laid a strong foundation of discipline and positive reinforcement, making it easier to train your dog to follow more complex commands. In these weeks, you will introduce him to assuming different positions, obeying your commands as he moves away from you, and reacting to more nuanced anchors. Remember, 4-month-old Labrador puppies have a short attention span, so avoid long training sessions. Teach the Sit and Stay Teaching your Lab to sit and stay is a useful command for him to learn. Train Your Dog to Fetch If you have taken your Labrador to public parks and he has seen other dogs play fetch, it will be easier to teach him to retrieve whatever you throw. Your Labrador may not bring the toy back to you for a second round, but he will soon get the idea of retrieving it. You can gradually turn it into a game of fetch over the next few weeks and reward your doggo with high-value training treats. Continue Potty Training In the fourth month of Labrador training, you will continue potty training with a degree of independence. Continue with a good schedule and sync your walks with his natural cycle to align with the times he needs to go. You can use it to control your Labrador and later to test his ability to execute a command off-leash. A harness is also a good idea and is used for outdoor training and walks. Many owners will opt for a rear-attaching harness. Related: Harness vs. Collar for Lab Puppy: Which is Best? How to Train a 5-Month-Old Lab Puppy A five-month-old Labrador puppy is ready to be tested for his general obedience and the ability to deal with distractions, whether other dogs, people, or other animals such as squirrels or birds. Earlier, I mentioned that you could not expect an eight-week-old puppy to delay gratification. Your puppy can deal with distractions at five months old if you introduce them slowly. You must be prepared for your dog to run ahead of you now! However, suppose you have developed a solid relationship with your pup and worked on his training. In that case, he will stay within a reasonable distance, remaining by your side and showing loyalty. Once your Lab puppy has reached his 6-month milestone, it also marks the point where you introduce him to advanced obedience training. The good news is that all the training you have previously given will make it easier for your dog to follow your lead. Conclude Potty Training Your dog has had months to learn how to communicate his need to go potty. He has also likely refined the patience to hold it instead of relieving himself on the floor. Therefore, you can communicate your disappointment with your body language if your dog makes a mess. Avoid physical punishment and even verbal chastising as it impacts your dog negatively. All dogs can still have the odd accident up to 12 months old. Moreover, you must be prepared for your dog to relieve himself indoors if he is excited or frightened, known as either excitement or submissive urination. Increase Exercise Now that your Lab puppy is six months old, you can increase his exercise to thirty minutes twice daily. Energy levels, especially for larger breed dogs, escalate during this time. While the average exercise for a pup before this is generally five minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day, a six-month-old Labrador can be out for one hour if you split his walks into thirty minutes a day. To train your 6-month-old Lab puppy, start with two commands with the most practical use. From six months onwards, until your Labrador is a well-trained adult, you can teach the following commands or tricks in any order. How to Train a 7-Month-Old Labrador As your Lab progresses to seven months old, a lot of the previous training needs to be kept consistent as you gradually teach him to comprehend more commands. Maybe there is a trespasser, and you want your dog to scare them away. You will need to continue training your dog to hold things or release them on command, but you can also proceed to add distance and even more background distractions. Ironically, you need to teach him to bark on command before learning to be silent on cue. Over this month, he will learn to associate the respective commands with barking and silence. This is quite tricky, but your Lab will eventually get there if you practice and stay consistent. The eighth month is ideal for training your Lab to go to different places upon hearing the command word. Either way, do not overload him with place commands, and stick to no more than two per month. Or you can use the ninth month to teach a cool party trick! After a week, you can remove the treat and teach your Lab to follow your finger. Of course, you will still need to reward him after he follows the command. By the third week, you can cue your doggo to spin and see if he does so without your finger guiding him in a circular motion. It might take an extra week or two, but I recommend this as an addition in the ninth month because it allows you to continue training your pet to learn previous commands better. You can teach him to go to different places, hold or release objects, and fetch toys. You can now progress this further and teach him to roll over on command. Your 1-year-old Labrador only learns to comprehend more at the same pace as he has since the 6-month mark. You should also audit previously taught commands and see any weak associations you can reinforce. How to Train an Month-Old Labrador You will not have to alter your training regimen dramatically if you have trained your Labrador properly from eight weeks onward. If anything, this is the period where you customize his training to your convenience. Now is when your dog must learn to be compatible with your life. From the month mark onwards, you must train your dog to be harmonious with modern adult life within reason. It is sad to see dog owners having to give away their pets because of behavior issues. Such things are avoidable if you train your dog correctly and sufficiently exercise him. It would be best if you simply established authority by having a positive yet commanding presence. Once your dog acknowledges your authority and sees you as a guide, you can merely treat him as a six-month-old, albeit on an accelerated schedule, and train him accordingly. Your job becomes even easier once you have a workable training schedule and stick to your routine. This month-by-month Labrador puppy training schedule will help you successfully train your doggo and turn him into the beloved companion you always desired. Good luck with your training! Related Posts You May Like:.

You can use the information on dog food packets.Show more How much grooming does a Pug need? Although Pugs have short fur, they do shed so you'll need to brush them occasionally. To help your dog feel comfortable with handling and grooming, introduce it in a positive way, one step at a time. Show more What size crate do you need for a Pug? When inside their crate, your dog should have plenty of space to: sit and stand up at their full height turn around without touching the sides lie down fully stretch.To find out more about potential.Are Pugs easy to train? You can teach any breed of dog new tricks! Find out what your dog loves so you can use this to reward them after a success. Just like you, every dog is an individual with their own personality and prior experiences. So every Pug temperament is different. As dogs grow from puppies, they learn all about the world. They develop their own like.Show more Are Pugs good with children? Every dog has their own unique personality that has been shaped by their own experiences of the world. However, there are som.Show more. Select Page Adopting a Pug We are always on the lookout for the right people and environment to provide forever homes for pugs in our care, across the UK. There is an urgent need for new homes currently, due to a high level of pugs being surrendered this year, plus for those with special-needs or requiring specific environments to suit their physical or emotional needs. Occasionally this means homes without other dogs. Due to the care taken, to match each pug according to their individual needs, waiting times for successful applicants will vary. If you are considering adopting a pug or a bonded-pair of pugs, please read this section. As a registered charity we rely on donations from the public to carry out our work which is undertaken by a small team of volunteers. The Pug is a unique and special breed, requiring a unique and special home. Pugs are rehomed with the applicant most suited to the specific needs of each individual Pug. It should be noted that taking on a rescue Pug is a huge commitment both emotionally and financially. Many of our Pugs will require special care and attention. Please consider this very carefully before applying to adopt. Please note that adoption donations are non-refundable. Before completing the Adoption Application Form, please read the following guidance notes. If your initial application is successful, you will then receive a further email to arrange a home check. If your home check is successful, you will receive a further email advising that you have been placed on our waiting list. Please note that it will usually take a few weeks for your application to be processed, although occasionally the adoption process can occur quickly if suitable pugs are waiting in foster homes. Applicants must be able to provide adequate insurance for the pug. Applications from those in full-time work, outside of the home, cannot be accepted. Pugs are a companion breed and need company therefore specify on your application what arrangements are in place for their daily supervision. Applicants who already own un-neutered males or un-spayed bitches will not be considered. If you are willing for your dogs to be neutered or spayed please advise us. A vet bill will be required as proof. Please keep us up to date on any changes in your circumstances. It should be noted that all Pugs are rehomed to the most appropriate home to suit the Pug. May we remind you that applicants must be aged 21 and over, and reside in the UK or Channel Isles. If you are selected to adopt a Pug, you will usually be required to take him or her at very short notice, and without having seen the Pug. If your application is successful, an adoption donation will be required, as we do need funds to allow us to continue to rescue Pugs and to help pay for vet fees and transportation costs. Please ensure that you have read, understood and accept the above guidance notes. Naturally as they grow older they require different levels of to younger pugs. Similarly, we have an increasing number of requests for bonded pugs who need rehoming together. While this may cost you a little more, they are ready-made companions who bring twice the love! If you feel you can help in either of these circumstances, please see our Golden Oldies and Perfect Pairs pages for more information. Vocality level 5 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament ACA delightful blend of dignity and comedy, the Pug is an amiable, playful, and confident companion. They can be stubborn and headstrong, but they are pleasant and generally willing to please. They love to cavort and show off. Upkeep The Pug needs daily exercise, either in the form of a lively game or a moderate walk. They do not do well in heat and humidity. They needs minimal coat care but daily cleaning of facial wrinkles. Their smooth coat needs only occasional brushing to remove dead hairs; however, the wrinkles need regular cleaning and drying to prevent skin infections. The Pug may often wheeze and snore. Health Major concerns: Pug dog encephalitis, CHD, brachycephalic syndrome Minor concerns: elongated palate, stenotic nares, patellar luxation, Legg-Perthes, entropion, KCS, skin infections, hemivertebra Occasionally seen: seizures, nerve degeneration, distichiasis, allergies, demodicosis Suggested tests: eye, hip, knee, DNA Pug dog encephalitis Life span: 12—15 years Note: The Pug cannot tolerate heat and is sensitive to anesthesia. They are prone to corneal abrasion and obesity. The Pug is somewhat of an exception in the Toy Group because they are perhaps the only one to be descended from mastiff forebears. Although their exact ancestry has been lost in antiquity, the Pug retains many mastiff characteristics. The Pug is an ancient breed, one of several miniaturized in the Orient, where they were a favorite pet of Buddhist monasteries in Tibet many centuries ago. Here they became quite popular and were recognized as the official dog of the House of Orange after one saved the life of Prince William by sounding an alarm at the approach of Spanish soldiers in .Pugs were first brought to England during Victorian times and became incredibly popular with the wealthy, displacing the King Charles Spaniel as the favored royal breed. Several Pugs were brought to England from China in .A year earlier, the breed had been recognized by the AKC. Since that time, they have remained popular a pet. Related Content. PDWRA has been receiving an increasingly high number of surrendered pugs, so please consider either of these options to give these pugs the future they deserve! Please see our Adoption section to find out more about the requirements to take into account for adopting, also to apply. Fostering We are in URGENT need of more foster homes due to the increasingly high level of surrendered pugs, many requiring dedicated healthcare or rehabilitation prior to adoption. Please read our Fostering section for all the details and considerations, also to apply. As with many rescues, the volume of pugs being surrendered has risen greatly, many in poor health, over and above the suitable homes available for them. We will be focussed on doing the best for those in our care, in order to Re-Open as soon as possible. Please read our Surrendering section for further details. Volunteering There are a number of ways that you can volunteer to support PDWRA, including: Home checking, by assessing adoptive or foster applicants in your near locality, according to rehoming requirements. Transporting involves the collection, delivery and safe transportation of a PDWRA pug to its new home. Fundraising, in a variety of ways including at Events, or organising your own, to raise much needed funds for the pugs in our care. There are also vacancies for specific, dedicated roles in the charity, that you can apply for. If you would like to find out how you can get involved or to apply to volunteer, please see our Volunteering section. Lynn lives in the lovely South West of England with her husband Geoff, and their family of five male pugs.

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Labradoodle Highlights Friendly and intelligent: Labradoodles are known for being friendly and intelligent dogs. They are good with children and other animals, and they are easy to train. Hypoallergenic: Labradoodles are often considered to be hypoallergenic, which means that they do not shed as much as other dogs. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies. Active and playful: Labradoodles are active dogs that need regular exercise. They enjoy playing fetch, going for walks, and swimming. Loyal and devoted: Labradoodles are loyal and devoted dogs that make great companions. They are always happy to see their owners and they love to cuddle. Versatile: Labradoodles are versatile dogs that can be trained for a variety of tasks, including therapy work, obedience, and agility. They can be expensive to purchase and maintain. They require regular grooming, especially if they have a curly coat. They are prone to some health problems, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Overall, Labradoodles are wonderful dogs that make great companions for people of all ages. If you are looking for a friendly, intelligent, and hypoallergenic dog, a Labradoodle may be a good choice for you. Labradoodle History Wally Conron, who was in charge of the breeding program for the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia, purposefully crossbred a Standard Poodle and Labrador Retriever in to develop the Labradoodle as a hypoallergenic guide dog. The first cross produced Sultan, a dog with a hypoallergenic coat, aptitude, intelligence, and personality suitable for being an effective guide dog. Sultan worked successfully with a woman in Hawaii. Other breeders saw the merit of crossing these two breeds, and the Labradoodle quickly rose in popularity like its Labrador Retriever parent. These dogs are often produced by crossing a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle, but multigenerational breeding has begun in an attempt to produce a viable and recognizable breed. The Australian Labradoodle Association and the International Australian Labradoodle Association are taking steps to move this designer breed into registered breed status in the next few years. These groups have made great efforts to bring breeders together so that they are working to achieve the same standards through multigenerational breeding. Labradoodle Size The Labradoodle comes in three size variations, depending on the size of the Poodle used for the first-generation breeding. The three sizes are Standard, Medium, and Miniature. The Standard Labradoodle should be 22 to 24 inches in height for a male and 21 to 23 inches in height for a female, while both can range in weight from 50 to 65 pounds. The Medium Labradoodle should be 18 to 20 inches high for a male and 17 to 19 inches high for a female, with both weighing from 30 to 45 pounds. The average size for a Miniature Labradoodle is between 14 to 16 inches and 15 to 25 pounds. All of that said, there is a lot of variation in Labradoodle sizes. Some can be smaller or larger than expected. Labradoodle Personality The Labradoodle is an intelligent dog who can make the ideal family pet if properly trained. They are friendly and accept and treat everyone like their best friend. They can be gentle, but they can also be joyful, showing their happiness through exuberant jumping and playing. They also tend to be easygoing, since the Labradoodle was bred not to be aggressive. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings, parents, or other relatives of the dog is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when they grow up. Socialization helps ensure that your Labradoodle puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking them to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help them polish their social skills. Here are a few conditions to watch out for: Ear Infections: These can plague Labradoodles because of their floppy ears. The ears trap moisture and should be regularly checked. X-ray screening is the most certain way to diagnose the problem. Either way, arthritis can develop as the dog ages. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia : Similar to hip dysplasia, this is also a degenerative disease. The disease varies in severity: the dog could simply develop arthritis, or they could become lame. Treatment includes surgery, weight management, medical management, and anti-inflammatory medication. It can cause mild or severe seizures that may show themselves as unusual behavior—such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding—or even by falling down, limbs rigid, and losing consciousness. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Allergies: Allergies are a common ailment in dogs, and the Labradoodle is no exception. Treatment varies according to the cause and may include dietary restrictions, medications, and environmental changes. Diabetes Mellitus: This is a disorder in which the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels. The dog will lose weight because food is not being used efficiently. Symptoms of diabetes are excessive urination and thirst, increased appetite, and weight loss. Diabetes can be controlled by diet and the administration of insulin. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA : This is a family of eye diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina. Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind; they lose sight during the day as the disease progresses. Many affected dogs adapt well to their limited or lost vision, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Hypothyroidism : This is a disorder of the thyroid gland. It is treated with medication and diet. They require about 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day and would do better with a fenced yard in which to expel some energy. Some Labradoodles, especially in the first generation, can require even more exercise. The Labradoodle makes an excellent jogging companion but also needs some time off-leash to burn off steam. The Labradoodle is an intelligent and eager-to-please dog. Training should be easy as long as consistency and positive reinforcement are the methods. Socialize them from puppyhood, since they tend to hurl themselves headlong into canine situations without regard to the feelings of other dogs. This can lead to some problems if the unknown dog is aggressive. Despite their activity levels, a Labradoodle can adjust to living in suburban or city environments and can do well in rural settings. A crate is also a place where they can retreat for a nap. Crate training at a young age will help your Labradoodle accept confinement if they ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized. Never stick your Labradoodle in a crate all day long, however. Labradoodle Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 2. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Labradoodle in good shape by measuring their food and feeding them twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at them. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on their back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see their ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Labradoodle, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Labradoodle Coat Color And Grooming Although a Labradoodle can have one of a range of coat types, the desired length is four to six inches. They have a single coat with hair ranging from straight to loose curls. There are three types of texture: The Hair coat, which is similar to fur in shedding breeds, is the least popular. Hair coats shed and usually have a normal doggy odor. This coat is seen in first generations, although breeders try to avoid it. The Fleece coat has a silky texture often described as an Angora goat texture. This coat ranges from straight to wavy. Labradoodles are considered to be non- to low shedders, especially those with a Fleece or Wool coat. Hair coats tend to shed just as they do in other breeds, ranging from very low to average shedding. The Labradoodle comes in a wide variety of colors. They can also have parti-colored coats, which consist of brindles, phantom, patched, or sable colors. Grooming requirements vary depending on the length and type of coat the dog has. Generally speaking, you can expect to brush a Labradoodle about once or twice per week. Some can be clipped or trimmed every six to eight weeks to keep the coat easy to maintain. Like Labs, Labradoodles can be prone to ear infections, so take a little extra time caring for their ears. Dry and clean them after a swim, and check them once a week for dirt, redness, or a bad odor that can indicate an infection. Then wipe them out weekly with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to prevent problems. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding—and your dog may not cooperate the next time they see the nail clippers come out. Handle their paws frequently—dogs are touchy about their feet—and look inside their mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Labradoodle Children And Other Pets The Labradoodle does well with children and can be an affectionate and gentle companion for any child. They can also be exuberant and might knock down smaller children, but they will love them with all their heart. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Labradoodles usually get along well with other dogs and pets. Like most dogs, they need training and socialization for optimum success at living with and visiting other animals. Labradoodle Rescue Groups Labradoodles are often brought home without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. Many end up in the care of shelters or rescues because of this. It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Labradoodles because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Labrador Retriever or Poodle breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. But in the early days, we recommend keeping them close to you at night. It will help them feel safe and cared for — leaving their litter is quite a big step, after all. Your puppy may be unsettled and will most likely need at least one bathroom break through the night. It will all be okay in a few weeks time, though. The crate should be a cozy warm den for your puppy. Soft blankets and a cuddly toy should do the trick to help them settle. It is also a good idea to cover over the sides but keep the front uncovered so your pup can still see out. Just before bed, take your pup out for one last potty stop. With that beautiful voice of yours, gently reassure them and rest your hand in the crate so they know you are there. When your puppy wakes up in the night they definitely will at some point , listen to see if they are settling back down. Expect to be out at or am to take them straight to the loo. They will be bursting! That just about covers the first steps of Labradoodle sleep training. Very tired. But early mornings, late nights and disturbed sleep are all part of owning a puppy. As they mature emotionally and settle into their new home they will be happy in other parts of the house, and even outside of their crate. Having them in your room does not cause separation anxiety later on. Stick to a routine! Consistency is everything. It will backfire on you. Check out our guide on how to get a puppy to sleep through the night for more tips. Alone Training Labradoodles are very sociable. That can mean two things — they will always be happy to see you and that being alone can be challenging for them. This will help them feel at ease without you and also help them love their crate a little bit more too. While they are eating, go and do something close by. No need to go completely out of sight, but try not to focus on your puppy either. Labradoodles love to eat, so use this time wisely to distract them away from you. Just a few seconds is good enough in the early stages. Repeat: Practice makes perfect! Do this exercise at least once a day to build up alone time, and check out our guide to puppy separation anxiety. We expand on our little secret in our puppy potty training article. Every 30 minutes, after eating, sleeping or playing. Socialization Exercises to do This Week Early socialization is important for all puppies. It gives them confidence and teaches them to view the world in an optimistic way. Here are some puppy socialization exercises to do with your Labradoodle. Let your Labradoodle Puppy Explore the Yard The yard is a great way to introduce your puppy to the great outdoors. They will also get used to walking on different types of surfaces such as your tiled, wet lawn or open flower beds. To get them there, here is a quick exercise you can run through: Exploring different surfaces exercise Have plenty of treats ready. Only use safe surfaces, nothing too slippery. Gather surfaces such as: A piece of carpet A large tray with a thin layer of water A large piece of tin foil or cardboard, something that makes a noise. Put the surfaces out on the floor and let your puppy investigate. Let them take their time and go at their own pace. In our experience Labradoodles are quite food motivated, and you can probably use a low or medium value treat for this. You can even try to use their kibble as many will be delighted to work for their food. For more info on what rewards to use check out our article on rewards and treats. Teach your puppy their name One of the first things your puppy will learn from you is their name. Fortunately, teaching a Labradoodle puppy their name is rather simple. Pretty easy, right? Practice this a few times everyday until they start flipping their head at you every time you call their name. Make sure everyone in the family uses the same name too! Teach your puppy to sit Labradoodle training is often started by teaching them how to sit. We call this a marker word. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow with a tasty treat. Bits of smelly sausage or cheese will definitely do the trick. If this happens, try to keep it simple at first and just use their own kibble if they are motivated to work for it. Save the big guns in treat terms for when you really need it! How to do it Always begin training at home. The outside world is far too exciting at the moment, and your puppy will probably not focus on you. Stand in front of your pup with a treat in your hand and place the treat on their nose, then bring it up to your waist. Recall — How to teach your Labradoodle puppy to come back when called Your puppy should have a good grasp of their name by now, which should make recall training pretty straightforward. Pun intended. How to do it You will need plenty of those high value treats and your best cheery voice. Call your puppy only once! This is super important as you want them to learn that their name only has to be called once for them to react to it. How to do it Get your puppy excited by showing them their favorite toy and making it come to life by waving it around. Once they are interested in the toy, throw it a short distance away from you. With that lovely singing voice of yours, encourage them to bring it back to you. When they do, swap the toy in their mouth for another identical toy. Repeat about 5 times and practice everyday. Get your puppy excited by showing them their favorite toy and making it come to life by waving it around. Prevention of Resource Guarding This part of Labradoodle training is important — it will prevent resource guarding by teaching your puppy how to give up items willingly. Resource guarding is this thing that happens when dogs are unwilling to give up items back, or when they get protective over something from humans or other dogs. From the training tips above, preventing resource guarding always comes down to a good swapping. Resource guarding starts when we force our dogs as puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. To avoid that, resist your temptation to reach deep inside their mouths to get whatever it is they have. Ultimately, we want our puppies to be willing to give things up when we need them to. What we really mean is care, handling, health and grooming. Start by just showing them the brush and running it over them with the apartment side so they get used to the sensation minus the bristles. Hand Touch and Handling If you handle your puppy too roughly or grab at them, not only are they going to have a bit of a fright, but it could make them feel scared about being touched in the future. Use plenty of treats, and remember to stop if they walk away. Touch should be a pleasant thing not forced. Week 2 — Training your Labradoodle puppy Week 2 already! Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Fireworks — Watch the world go by outside your house — Play dress up.