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You'll be calling your dog this name for many years to come, so be sure to pick something you love. But where to begin? The loving and gregarious Labrador Retriever has maintained the top spot as the most popular dog breed in the United States for three decades, and it comes as no surprise to Lab lovers. Labrador Retrievers are a Canadian breed. They were developed in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, a coastal region on the Eastern side of Canada. Here, Labrador Retrievers were used to retrieve ducks for hunters and to assist fisherman. Labs today are still invaluable retrievers of waterfowl, as well as ideal pets. Labrador Retrievers appear in solid colors of yellow, black or chocolate, with no markings. With its coal-black, glossy coat, the black Lab is especially striking and elegant. Gentle with children, easily trained, and a friend to all, Labrador Retrievers are famous for being excellent family dogs. They love to run and play and are always up for an adventure. They get along with other animals and humans alike. If you think Labrador Retrievers are top dog among all breeds, hundreds of thousands of dog lovers around the world agree with you. You can go in many different ways when choosing a name. Popular dog names are always a good choice, as are more unusual choices. Top Black Lab Names Let's take a look at some favorite black Lab names pulled from different categories. Some of the best names for black Labs include: Captain. You'll find cute, clever, and unique monikers that will fit your pup to a tee. By Lisa Marie Conklin Lisa Marie Conklin is a freelance writer covering health and wellness, real estate, pets, and home. She's also a certified personal trainer and walking coach for a local senior center. Daily Paws' Editorial Guidelines Published on November 24, You would think gathering a list of black Lab names for your new Labrador retriever would be a cakewalk. After all, there's tons of creative names for black dogs already out there, but you want a name that truly captures who your black Lab pup is. No worries, we've got tons of inspiration for picking the perfect name for your pooch! Whether you're looking for black Lab puppy names or monikers for your newly adopted adult dog, you're going to have so much fun choosing from this list of names that parents of this special breed can truly appreciate. Can't really blame her. Dogs are very attracted to stinky stuff , after all! Check out these girl black Lab names befitting your queen.

Ready to go today. That leaves us with a lot to do in order to get her home dealt with and other things that come along with loved ones needing us. Now is just not the time to keep a pup back. I was having fun just watching them grow to see who will be the one or two! These pups are standard size and will be 65lbs or more grown. If you are ready to pickup today we can arrange that as long as we have a few hours notice. One boy is available. We do have new pricing options available for him. Our F1 Bernedoodles are bred from OFA and Genetically tested parents and are an excellent choice for those looking for a healthy and intelligent companion. OFA testing is a series of evaluations performed by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, which can help identify any potential genetic health issues. By breeding dogs that have passed these tests, we can reduce the risk of passing on inherited conditions to their offspring. Bernedoodles, a cross between Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles, are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and affectionate nature, making them an ideal family pet. Choosing an F1 Bernedoodle from OFA and Genetically tested parents can increase the chances of getting a happy and healthy addition to your family. Alice and Jackson also have Genetic Panels completed by Paw Print Genetics so we know their pups will never develop any genetic diseases common to their breeds. As an added benefit and protection, all pups come with a two year health warranty as well. She loves to play catch and she is great at retrieving. She is AKC Registered. Her coat is thick and her puppies usually get this trait from her too. He is your typical Bernese, loves pet and he wants to sit on your lap at all times. He has an incredible coat, soft and so shiny. He is AKC Registered. He is the Dad of our F1 Bernedoodle puppies. If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More Are you planning to adopt a Bernedoodle in Michigan? Ethical breeders carefully select their breeding dogs through various tests to minimize the risk of puppies inheriting any serious genetic conditions. Similarly, responsible breeders will also provide health guarantees, usually for one or two years from adoption. A good health guarantee should cover any serious or life threatening hereditary illnesses that the parent dogs have been tested for. For instance, you can find plenty of customer reviews on Google, Facebook, here at Doodle Doods , Yelp, or even Reddit. To learn more about this topic, make sure you check out our full, in-depth guide on How To Choose A Responsible Breeder. They specialize in a variety of coat colors and patterns, such as tri-colors, bi-colors, but also rarer patterns like sables and merles. And once in a while, they also have solid colors available. In addition to that, they closely keep an eye on all of their puppies and evaluate their temperaments to ensure that each pup goes to the most suitable forever home. What Makes This Breeder Unique? They carefully select their breeding dogs and all of them have undergone rigorous health and genetic testing to produce the highest quality litters possible. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Allen Park Michigan and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups!

Hunting dog names Yes Poodles are traditionally retriever hunting dogs! Simplicity ensures the dog will not confuse their name for another command. This is why it is recommended that you name your dog something with two syllables. Two syllable names allow for intonation and inflection changes in your voice. These changes signal to the dog that the word you are saying is not a short and clipped command but rather an identifying word that they should respond to. There is debate in the scientific community about whether or not dogs have a sense of self and can therefore determine which words you say are meant for them. Using a name with two syllables is a good way to help your dog learn to respond to this word. You should also choose a name that is not too long so you can say it quickly. Additionally, be sure that the name is not offensive to anyone you may know. Many common poodle names are also human names. Get input from other family members. It is a good idea to decide on a name together since everyone in the household will interact with the dog. If you decide on a name and want to change it, do so quickly so that the dog can learn its name without any confusion. Many dog owners have tons of nicknames for their dogs other than their formal names. Do not be discouraged if naming your poodle takes a long time. It takes time to reach the perfect name! Are Poodles hyper? They sure love to run and exercise! Final Thoughts Naming a dog is an important job. Many factors about a dog can help you choose a name. Personality is especially useful to determine a name if you do not already have one in mind. Remember, consider our tips when naming your new poodle! Naming a dog is not an exact science, so just have fun with it. We hope you are inspired by our list of best poodle names. Good luck on your naming journey! My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Whether your Poodle is a standard, miniature or an itty bitty teacup pup, you want to choose a cute name for them that really fits their personality! Here are some great male and female names for your poodle. Top 10 Precious Poodle Dog Names Here are our top 10 favorites divided up between male and female ideas! This is a cute name for a poodle that is charming, funny and pleasant. Caesar is an imperial title given to an emperor during Roman Times, most notably Julius Caesar. Charley— The name Charley is from French origin, meaning free man. Charley was the faithful companion, a black standard Poodle, of famed author, John Steinbeck. Claude— The name Claude is from French origin, meaning lame, enclosure. Claude was the cream-colored pet poodle of Milburn and Margaret Drysdale on the television series- The Beverly Hillbillies. Frederic— The name Frederic is from French origin, meaning peaceful ruler. This is a great name for a poodle that has a presence about him, because there have been a few notable men in the arts field in history. Frederic Edwin Church was a landscape painter, Frederic Remington was an Old West painter, sculptor and writer and Frederic Tuten was an essayist, novelist and short story writer. Rusty— The name Rusty is from French origin, meaning fox-colored. Ginger— The name Ginger is from English origin, meaning chaste, pure. Ginger is a flowering plant that is used in cooking and traditional medicine. Throughout history, some notable females have been named Ginger. Mirabella— The name Mirabella is from Latin origin, meaning wonderful. Molly— The name Molly is from Hebrew origin, meaning wished-for child. Vicky— The name Vicky is from Latin origin, meaning triumphant, victory. Vicky seems to be a popular name for soap opera characters. I found inspiration in those wonderful traits to help you find the perfect name for your new puppy! Check out my favorites for girls!

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

And you would like to get a Haven Kennels German Shepherd. Thank you as I always take that as a compliment and an honor. You have made your decision and now I have my decision to make — whether you are the right home for one of our babies. These puppies are members of our family! We are there when they are born. I sleep on a cot in the puppy room for the first six weeks of their life to make sure our German Shepherd puppies are well socialized and are safe from any harm. A lot of things can happen to puppy in those early days. A mother dog can accidentally lay on a pup injuring it or a pup can choke on something. Rarely will we have a puppy ready for you immediately. All of our litters have waiting lists, and the wait can be a long time sometimes up to 2 years so if you want to have a puppy right away, we may not have one for you. And to be perfectly honest with you, that is the case with most responsible and ethical dog breeders. I make no apologies for the price of our puppies nor do I negotiate price. A lot of work and expense goes into producing puppies of the quality that we offer. If you feel the price is too high, that is your choice. The choice is yours, but do your homework and choose wisely. To download your Haven Kennels Puppy Application, click here. Approval of Your German Shepherd Puppy Application All our potential owners have to go through the same thorough vetting process. The first step is to fill out a puppy application. Please be candid and honest in filling out the application for your Haven Kennels German Shepherd puppy. Your application gives me a lot of information about what you are looking for in a puppy. An informative application aids me in choosing the right puppy to go to your home. I do not allow people to choose their puppy. I have over 50 years of experience in dog training. I have been breeding German Shepherds for service dog work for over 25 years. I carefully watch those puppies from the time they are born and by 6 weeks old I have a very good read on their strengths and weaknesses. When you talk to owners of my previous litters you will find that they are very happy with their dogs and that is because I placed the right dog with the right family. I take great care when I process a puppy application. Trust me, I thoroughly check you out before I allow you to have one of our puppies. I will be calling your vet and local dog officer. I will talk to whoever you put as a personal reference and be asking them lots of questions about you and any dogs you have or had. I will even take a look at your home on Google Maps to see if it fits my standards for an appropriate place for one of our German Shepherds to live. To me it is not about selling dogs but instead finding the perfect home for one of these puppies. If you buy a puppy from Haven Kennels, you will hear from us at least once a year as I check to see how our babies are doing. I love to get emails and pictures of them as they progress through their lives. Once I approve your application and I am sure that you are who you say you are, I will talk with you on the phone. I will also give you contact information so you can call some present owners of Haven Kennels dogs so you can hear firsthand what their experience has been with their dogs and with us as breeders. Our deposits, like most breeders, are non-refundable, except under one circumstance. We will refund your deposit if we cannot provide you with a healthy puppy, meeting the criteria you expressed in your application, within 2 years. We require the 2 year period because a lot can happen in the attempted breeding of a female dog. Female dogs can have split heats, hormonal imbalances, or even skip a heat. We list planned breedings on our home page so you can make a selection if you want a pup from specific parentage. Occasionally we will have quality puppies available from the use of our stud dog, Baratheon von Haven. We are very careful about who we breed our boy to so you can be reassured that one of his puppies are of the same quality as the puppies born here in our kennel. Once in a while, we will have an adult female dog that we are retiring from breeding. These dogs will be years old, neutered, and will be trained and housebroken. It is not very often that we have a retired breeding dog as we tend to not be able to give them up emotionally but we can only keep so many dogs, particularly German Shepherds as they require individual human companionship on a regular basis. These retiring females are a great choice to go to families with small children as they are very tolerant and gentle with kids. Search for:. Our mission is to improve the breed standard, produce stable, clear headed puppies and prepare them for bonding with their new humans. Come and see the difference. Whatever task you may have - a canine from West German Shepherds. Welcome to West German Shepherds. Our mission: to improve the breed standard, to produce stable, clear headed puppies and prepare them for bonding with their new humans. Committed to producing exceptional canines with 14 years of hard-earned expertise and insight; here, you will glean insider information on selecting a German Shepherd pup and why West German Shepherds. She passed away in my arms on Monday September 16th at AM. Brownie was our reigning queen, an alpha female who earned her stripes the hard way; as a result she never flaunted her position but rather ruled with a strong bark and gentle paw. Great with families, working bloodlines, very protective. When the AKC American Kennel Club or CKC either of the 2 following entities Canadian Kennel Club or the Continental Kennel Club registers a new puppy, it does so sight unseen - without ever having evaluated the appearance, health or quality of the parents of the litter. In fact only a minuscule fraction of the tens of thousands of breeding dogs all across America have ever been evaluated. While registration is a great place to start, there is more to consider than whether the dog is registered. Sadly, the marketplace is chock full of puppies with bad genetics and these are from officially registered canine parents. A puppy born with a slight genetic abnormality might come from purebred parents, and can still be registered. An inexperienced or unscrupulous breeder may not recognize the uneven hips on a puppy and sell it to someone who will later breed the puppy. The final outcome will be a new line of registered dogs that are genetically inferior. None of these statements are made to be derogatory of the AKC or CKC, these registration organizations do many wonderful things to improve the health, welfare, training and advocacy of ALL canines. Yes, AKC registration is an important factor that should not be overlooked, but there is much more to contemplate. The pedigree of both parents should be considered as part of your quest for a puppy, the pedigree will list all of the ancestors historically for 3 or 4 generations back up the family tree. All of the canines listed in the pedigree impact the genetics and thereby the health of the offspring. The pedigree itself does nothing to convey the health of a puppy, but it tells the dogs lineage, their titles and country of origin. By searching, you can find a breeder offering puppies from parents with exceptional pedigrees, that have correct body structure, a superior visual appearance, plus the temperament to match your expectations. What is an exceptional pedigree? The more champions in a pedigree, the better. Here is a quick run down of German Shepherd championship titles. The German Sieger beats hundreds of other Champions to be selected this coveted title. The only higher title accomplishment attainable is the World Sieger. It is the same as the Sieger - but is for the female winner of the German National Championship Conformation show. Not many people are familiar with the word Sieger but even less are familiar with the word Siegerin outside of German Shepherd professionals. The Sieger show is held annually in Germany. VA-2 is the Vice- Sieger, etc. The best genetics possible are found in Sieger show winning adult German Shepherds. The puppies born from these bloodlines will be the absolute best in quality and appearance when compared to the average German Shepherd you see on the street. An analogy would be like comparing a shiny Ferrari against a rusted out Ford Pinto. The top bloodlines are found in the VA titled dogs and filtered down into their offspring, but be prepared to pay a significantly premium price for that level of parenthood and prestige. You will hear of dogs described as being from show lines, herding lines or working lines. Show lines refers to canines that are used to compete in conformation shows, herding lines means canines used to herd sheep, working lines denotes canines used to work in protection, Schutzhund or other disciplines. Primarily there are 3 main types of German Shepherd Dogs. Czech Shepherds are longer and leaner in body frame, more narrow across the chest and have taller rear hindquarters. Typical coat colors are black and tan, black and creme, black and silver, brown sable, silver sable and brindled. The coat patterns of a Czech Shepherd run from blanket-back to saddleback and brindled but most are blanket backed. We do not produce Czech Shepherd pups. Yes, Dutch Shepherds still fall under the umbrella of German Shepherds. Dutch Shepherds originated in the Netherlands and are very similar to Czech Shepherds in body form however they are typically more solid, weighty and sturdy than Czech Shepherds. Dutch Shepherds are not very commonly found outside of police or military use. They also present as a harder dog meaning they require an experienced trainer, handler or owner. Obviously there are exceptions to these generalized statements. Dutch Shepherds are brindled in coat color, brindled simply means a mottled and multi-colored un-patterned coat appearance. We do not produce Dutch Shepherd pups. West German Shepherds come from the democratic capitalist state of West Germany. West German Shepherds have shorter more compact torsos, thicker across the chest and have the squatted or lowered hindquarters. It is not that the dogs are stacked or posed for pictures, their rear bone structure is genetically encoded to be positioned more angular than that of a Czech Shepherd. The coat colors of a West German Shepherd are black and red set in a saddleback pattern. While interesting, we do not own or breed for these types, nor am I going to invest any time delving into them further. Over the past 25 years I have owned and bred different types of German Shepherd dogs. I keep track of the litters being sold in our geographic region. The West German type German Shepherd dog is the most sought after type. This is the number one variety of German Shepherd dog that previous GSD owners, consumers, enthusiast and new first time owners are actively seeking. You might assume that the cheap dogs are not as healthy or desirable, and the more expensive ones are a better, safer choice. Breeders know this. Many breeders will put a higher price on their low quality dog to look professional and make their dogs appear more valuable. Some breeders import very expensive dogs so they can breed them to sell puppies at a higher price bracket. An experienced breeder can evaluate a dog by comparing the conformation or show quality, health, physical performance and the ability to work; but can only do so after having studied the breed and being immersed in these canines for many years. One factor that has impacted price structure is the difference between Czech Shepherds and West Germans Shepherds based on an over-inflated value. Many first time German Shepherd buyers are ignorant of this fact. The new buyer will look at a few breeder websites, see the price tag, then sticker shock sets in; so they search again based on a lower initial purchase price and soon find a breeder that sells at lower price tiers. It never was a bargain. Czechoslovakian Shepherds sell for less money for a number of reasons. The market is diluted with them, it seems they are on every street corner. If you want the best German Shepherd for your money you will need to hit the perfect trifecta: choose breeder, bloodline and puppy very wisely. Breed level dogs or dogs used for breeding purposes should be exceptionally beautiful, it should be like a day versus night comparison. Its time for a really bad analogy, but it should be like comparing the cute girl you saw at BurgerDoodle against the hot supermodel on TV. Or for the lady readers, it would be like comparing an overweight plumber to a ripped fitness instructor. There should be an impressive difference between the quality of a German Shepherd breed dog when compared to the German Shepherd you just saw on the street corner. Both parents should have correct body type, not be excessively underweight or overweight, they should have dark eye colors, the coat should be exceedingly beautiful with vivid color pigmentation. The body should be proportional to the animals overall size, the body should not be too short nor should it be too long. The dog should not be a giant massive pound beast, nor should it be a petite 55 pounds worth of dog. The withers should be the high point and the back line or top line should gracefully slope to the hind quarters from there. The torso should appear rugged with powerful legs, the angulation should be correct and the stance when viewed from the side should look as if the German Shepherd were ready or capable of striking in a nanosecond. The West German Shepherd is a herding type breed and should weigh between 70 to 90 lbs and be 22 to 26 inches tall. That is 22 to 24 inches for a female and 24 to 26 inches for a male Toss a ball and observe the adults as they run, their movement should be easy, graceful as if to announce - yep, I can do this all day long! Look to see if the movement is fluid or constrained. Check the eyes, ear and teeth. Eyes should have dark pupil colors, teeth properly aligned, ears should be set close and stand erect, they should be reasonably clean and not coated with goo inside. Do the adult dogs track you as you move around? Are they agitated or nervous at your presence there? Pet them, handle them and look for their response. Nearly every German Shepherd breeder in America will tell you that they have champion bloodlines. Immerse yourself by studying, looking at pictures, making comparisons, asking questions via phone, text or email and then going to visit several of the top contenders. Go visit, meet them in person, ask questions, make notes etc. Choosing a breeder does not sound like a complicated task, however you should visit with several individuals and keep a skeptical eye open. Just because this breeder has nice looking German Shepherds - does not make them an ethical or honest person. Nearly everyone has heard the term puppy-mill. This refers to a large breeding operation that mass produces puppies to sell in a variety of retail outlets. Some of the puppies go to pet stores and boutiques, others are sold on-line and shipped in crates via carrier or air-freight, still others are to be sold at events like dog shows, local flea markets, farmers markets, outdoor festivals or from the back of a pick-up truck. Please beware of purchasing from the aforementioned venues, a large portion of these animals also come with very serious life threatening diseases. The puppy mills are known for over-crowding, unsanitary conditions and harsh treatment of animals since they often operate in secrecy in a warehouse or very remote type location. Another type of breeder is the novice, money driven or back yard breeder. These types are largely copy cats. They read websites of professional breeders and the on-line ads, familiarize themselves with the terminology, soon enough they begin executing their forgery. They position themselves as professional breeders but on a smaller scale, offering puppies that are hand raised etc. If you were to look around their property - they place looks like a normal home, there is no footprint or significant investment to indicate that they have created a top-notch, professional environment for their canines. See the selecting a breeder section for more information on how to identify unsavory breeder types and more specifically what to look out for. The canine breeder should be a walking encyclopedia about the overall health, housing, care, nutrition, exercise and training necessary for the type of canines they are breeding. They should have built up a considerable amount of knowledge, expertise and experience around their breed, they should also be proficient at mating and whelping too. Their kennels and property should reflect careful consideration about every decision that impacts the housing, health and environment for their canines. I highly recommend you visit with a few breeders, there is no substitute for this step. This is an opportunity for you to evaluate the breeder, to observe the adult canine animals and also the time to examine the relationship between the breeder and their animals. If the breeder is a professional - then there should be compelling evidence that they have made a significant investment in providing great facilities for the animals. What is the condition of the fencing, the shelter, the dog house, the whelping area etc? How does the breeder talk, do you feel extremely comfortable with their knowledge, character, speech and demeanor? This is the precise moment in time where you need to follow your gut. I have visited other breeders and seen unbelievable things, such as: When the puppies eat, play, then take a nap; mice scurried out from under the shed and begin scarfing crumbs of food dropped by the puppies. Another breeder had a koi pond with long strands of green slime pond scum, the puppies were using this as a water source; the issue was every time that it rained, the runoff rainwater drained back into the koi pond carrying with it the germs and bacteria from the waste products generated by the puppies. I have met a few great breeders and many really bad ones. In the final analysis - you are not just buying a puppy, but you are buying into the combined genetics of both parents, you are buying into the kennel, the breeder person, their level of knowledge and expertise, lastly whether or not that person is honest and ethical. Believe me - there are some real unsavory characters out there breeding dogs, selling puppies and offering stud service. For more info please read - Selecting a Breeder. The health of the animal is determined by genetics as passed down from both parents. Each pup has 2 parents, 4 grandparents, 8 great grandparents 16 great great grandparents all of these ancestor impact the offspring. Inquire of the breeder if there are any known genetic problems. Inquire about the frequency of those genetic problems occurring. If a breeder proudly says there have never had a problem with any of their animals then you should consider 1 of 2 possibilities. The very best kennels in the country have encountered genetic problems, but because of strict quality control protocols they move to a different pairing of adults to eliminate the genetic problem or they stop breeding that line altogether. A sincere breeder should offer a health guarantee to protect the customers investment. Always read the contract and ask questions long before making a deposit. A genuine breeder should want to stand behind their puppies, they should want to protect their reputation and provide detailed records. Furthermore a breeder should encourage open communication and build a relationship with their customers, how else will the breeder stay abreast of the health, wellness and genetic factors that are happening within their bloodline? An experienced breeder should have insight as to the traits of each puppy in the litter. The breeder should be able to help show you which puppy best suits your needs based on the criteria you have stated. What is the singular most important trait to you? Do you travel frequently and want a protective dog for your family? Are you seeking a dog for companionship? Is your situation that you have a big family, a lot of friends, neighbors and relatives who visit often and want a family dog? Were you planning on working the dog? Share this information with your breeder and ask them to help steer you towards a puppy that exhibits traits that are well suited for your primary intended purpose. Many clients want to actively choose a puppy, while others are more comfortable with a passive approach, spend time with the litter and allow the choice to be more organic and mutually made by the puppy that is attracted to them. There is nothing wrong with either method but I will offer this - If you want to ensure that you get the puppy with the traits that most closely match your needs, then for optimum results take an active role in making the selection. In each litter there will be certain trait variations the pups have inherited from their parents. Any German Shepherd puppy born in the litter can be trained to serve or work in any type of role that you desire, however some pups are more naturally suited to be self starters and do the task with minimal input from you. A German Shepherd is not naturally a mean or vicious dog, however they are alert, aware and protective. These traits have been locked into them from the start by the nature of the breed, these animals were coded to be discerning from the start. A Golden Retriever is a great congenial dog, it loves everyone it encounters right down to the burglar who is prying open the back window of your home with a crowbar. The Golden Retriever will hold the door open and wag its tail as the contents of the home are being ransacked and loaded into a truck. Now flip the script and try that with the German Shepherd dog. The German Shepherd dog has already been eyeballing everyone long before they set foot on the property. Even if the dog was inside and did not see someone coming - it is always listening for sounds that are non typical for its environment. Go ahead and pry the window open with the crowbar - lets see how that works out for you. Someone may actually get inside but I am pretty confident they will be encouraged to leave hastily by the canine with intense actions of fierce barking, deep growling, hackles up, ears on high alert and eyes laser focused on the intruder. The uninvited guest will drop everything - run out the door with empty arms, a chewed up backside, a renewed fear of God Almighty and total respect for the German Shepherd Dog… Again, the German Shepherd is not a mean dog, it is not a vicious dog, but it is a vigilant dog. It is a watch dog - it is a dog that closely looks after the people that it is bonded to and the place where they live together. All things considered - a German Shepherd is a very practical investment for peace of mind regardless whether you are young or old, single or have a large family. On pickup day I will spend a minimum of an hour and a half with each new owner going over paperwork and the best practices for feeding, health, training, tips on care, etc. With West German Shepherds. You are buying into the tremendous wealth of bloodlines we have selectively cultivated and created, you are buying the expertise we have accumulated in 14 years of running a top notch breeding program. I am passionate about this breed and ensuring that everyone who wants a German Shepherd - has an amazing experience. Please contact me if I can be of service to you. Thank you for visiting West German Shepherds. The original quote was intended for every breed of dog; as German Shepherd owners already know - these canines are far superior to any other breed on the planet! I often repeat - some days you are the dog, some days you are the fire hydrant. More quotes can be found at the bottom of each page. I have three pets at home which answer the same purpose as a husband. I have a dog which growls every morning, a parrot which swears all afternoon, and a cat that comes home late at night. Do you get the difference? The man will be there to feed the dog. The dog will be there to keep the man from touching the equipment. June 12, Home » How much should a German Shepherd cost? Older puppies with additional training from responsible breeders often cost more. If you are not familiar with the huge differences in shepherds, please reference our article on the different types of German Shepherd Dogs and selecting a German Shepherd breeder. Rescue Dogs There are many great rescues that charge a reasonable fee. There are many costs that go into rescuing dogs. Some shelters specialize in rehabilitating German Shepherds, and this can take a lot of time and money. These shepherds should at a very minimum be AKC certified. With no paperwork, free might be acceptable if you just want to give a dog a new home. Hopefully the people responsible for their actions would also cover deworming, vaccinations and other fees. German Working Line These Shepherds range depending on the breeder, facilities, bloodline, etc. They can be more with additional training. German Show Lines These are dogs that adhere to the breed standard and are significantly different animals. While any dog can be an excellent companion, these are beautiful, extraordinary family members with a little less drive than the working line. The very first steps to picking out a puppy should first be you determining what it is you would like out of your new puppy. First, determine which German Shepherd type fits you best, then, carefully select a breeder. Thank you, Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article.

Professional Grooming Bernedoodle Grooming Basics Grooming any dog can take time, and the Bernedoodle is no exception. Bernedoodles can have a few different types of coats , each of which can affect their grooming needs. The most common type of coat is either the curly or wavy coat. However, some Bernedoodles have straight coats, which do shed more. But no matter what type of coat your Bernedoodle has, weekly grooming is an essential part of their routine. Weekly Grooming The most important step in grooming a Bernedoodle is brushing. Like people, dogs need regular brushing to avoid mats and tangles in their fur. Brushing your dog consistently will also help keep their fur healthy and shiny. At a minimum, brush your dog at least two times each week. The brushing will help you get any dead fur out of their coat. If your Bernedoodle has a curly or wavy coat, consider brushing your dog more often. The curly and wavy fur has a higher risk of tangling, so you may need to brush three times a week or more to prevent that. If you notice that your dog needs more brushing, you can do that. How to Brush Your Bernedoodle Before you begin brushing your dog, you need to get the right type of brush. You can use a general dog brush for regular grooming , but you may need a special brush to tackle matted fur or other issues. In that case, you can use a universal slicker brush or a shedding blade. No matter what type of brush you use, you should give your dog a chance to examine it. Then, you can take the time to brush through their entire coat. You should make sure to brush their legs, head, and tail as well as their back and stomach. But if your dog starts to get scared, you can stop and come back to brushing them later. In some cases, they may start to find it relaxing. Monthly Grooming Even if you keep up with regular brushing each week, you should bathe your dog every so often. Every two months should be more than enough to keep their hair clean. However, if your dog gets into something and gets dirty, you can give them a bath in between their regular baths. Some dogs hate being near the water, and it can stress them out. So before you give your dog a bath, you should try to make it comfortable. How to Bathe Your Bernedoodle When it comes time to bathe your dog, include some toys or treats. You can also offer attention so that they associate the bath with something good. And the earlier you start giving them baths, the easier it will be for them to get used to it. Every two to four months, find your stash of dog shampoo. Look for shampoos with a good smell, and start with a small amount of it. This can cause health problems. If you have any issues, you can consult your local dog groomer for advice. Bathing a dog can be a huge ordeal. You have to make sure you have the right shampoo, and you have to keep your dog calm throughout the process. Luckily, you only need to bathe your Bernedoodle every two months or so, and that can help when the time comes for even more grooming. A professional groomer can make sure your dog is healthy, and they can address any problems they find. If your dog has an infection, a groomer can help you determine how to get rid of the problem. A groomer can also give your dog a nice cut, and there are different options you can choose. And if you want to show off the Poodle part of your dog, you can cut the fur around their back and belly while letting other areas grow out. Conclusion Properly grooming a Bernedoodle involves a few steps, from brushing to professional help. Whether you just got a Bernedoodle or have had one for years, you should know how to keep your dog in tip-top shape. So consider the steps mentioned above the next time you need to brush or bathe your Bernedoodle. I am a dog parent in Hot Springs Village, Ar. I created this site to help fellow Doodle owners with up-to-date information and tips for raising your puppy right! Post navigation. So, how often should you wash a Bernedoodle? You should wash a Bernedoodle once every 1 to 3 months to keep their coats in good shape and prevent them from accumulating any dirt. You can wash the dog more often during summer to cool it down when it gets too hot. However, keep in mind that washing the dog frequently will damage its coat. Continue reading to learn more about the kind of coat Bernedoodles have, how often to bathe them, and how to bathe them properly. Bernedoodles have three kinds of coats: straight, wavy, and curly. These coats vary in appearance and properties, such as their length, texture, and shedding frequency. Since Bernedoodles are a hybrid breed, the kind of coat they will have will be determined by their genetic makeup and which one of their parent breeds, Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles, they take after the most. They are long and moderately thick with a soft texture. They have the highest shedding frequency of all coat kinds, which makes them the least hypoallergenic. Wavy Coats They are also known as fleece coats. They are also long and moderately thick, but they have a softer and looser texture than straight coats do. They have a lower shedding frequency than straight coats, making them more hypoallergenic. They are short and thick with a coarse texture. They are the most prone to tangling and matting, so they require the most effort to keep in good shape. They have the lowest shedding frequency of all coat kinds, which makes them the most hypoallergenic. At the recommendation of various grooming Bernedoodles, you should bathe your Bernedoodle once every 1 to 3 months. The frequency at which you should bathe your Bernedoodle will depend mostly on the kind of coat it has. Bernedoodles with curly coats should be bathed more often than those with wavy or straight coats. That is because curly coats are thicker, and they collect dirt more easily. You can also bathe your Bernedoodle more often during the summer, as it will help cool it down when the temperature gets too hot. You can learn about the other ways to keep your Bernedoodle cool during the hot summer months here. If you do not bathe your Bernedoodle often, its coat will appear neglected, and it will smell bad. If you bathe your dog too much, you will be putting it at risk of developing skin conditions that will cause a lot of irritation and dryness. How to Bathe Your Bernedoodle Properly? Not all Bernedoodles enjoy being bathed, so you might find it challenging to keep your dog calm during bath time. You will first need to take some measures to prepare the dog for taking a bath and ensure that it will be safe and comfortable. Then, you need to follow some steps to bathe the dog properly and quickly. You can take the dog for a short walk or exercise it about an hour before the bath time. This will allow the dog to release its energy so they will be too exhausted to make any fuss during the bath time. For my recommendations, check out the best Shampoos for your dog here , and check out my recommended brushes here. You can apply more shampoo and rinse again if necessary. Make sure to give your dog treats throughout the bath time to reward its good behavior and to encourage it to remain calm when bathing in the future. Drying your dog after a bath will also help prevent its skin from becoming irritated or infected. You can learn a lot more about how to dry your Bernedoodle in minutes by checking out my complete guide to drying your dog after a bath here. You should brush your Bernedoodle daily or at least two times a week to remove loose hair from its coat and prevent it from getting tangled. The frequency at which you brush your Bernedoodle coat will depend on the kind of coat it has, as curly coats should be brushed more often than wavy or straight coats. You can use dry shampoo for Bernedoodles. It would help if you also shaved your Bernedoodle during summer to help it tolerate hot weather better. Check out the best and healthiest foods for golden retrievers at every age here — Dry, Wet, Homemade Recipes, and Treats! Taking a walk? These are the best leashes, collars, and harnesses for the buck that you can find. Grooming Your Bernedoodle Grooming Your Bernedoodle The Bernedoodle breed, also referred to as a Bernese mountain poo, is the product of a Bernese mountain dog parent and a poodle parent. This hybrid dog breed combines the best characteristics of both types of dog, such as the intelligence and low-shedding coat from its poodle part and the unwavering loyalty and laid-back demeanor of its Bernese mountain dog part. This combination of dog breeds also makes Bernedoodles irresistibly fluffy, with several variations in coat types. Of course, this means grooming your Bernedoodle should be done reglarly. Consider this your ultimate guide on how to properly groom a Bernedoodle , complete with a list of popular Bernedoodle haircuts you can choose to keep your furry family member looking its best. Keep reading to learn more about grooming needs. Except, of course, the fact that they require a substantial amount of grooming. More on that later. Keep in mind that grooming this breed is more than simply keeping its hair clean and trimmed. It also involves nail clipping, regular brushing and keeping its skin moisturized. For some people, the rule of thumb for Bernedoodle baths is whenever their pup starts to smell or becomes visibly dirty. Regular grooming will keep your dog happy and healthy. Bernedoodle Coats and Shedding As previously mentioned, Bernedoodles have different types of coats, and each coat type comes with different attributes. These are the different Bernedoodle coat types and what you can expect from them in regard to grooming. Straight coats are a characteristic of the Bernese mountain dog parent. A wavy-haired Bernedoodle will have a much softer coat compared to straight coats and be more prone to matting. Curly coats wool are a characteristic of a pure poodle parent. However, these coats need regular daily brushing because of their tightly wound curls, the coat type most susceptible to matting. The general consensus for weekly brushing is: Your dog needs a minimum brushing of twice a week to get rid of any dead or loose fur. As long as you commit to it a few times a week, it should be fine. Most Bernedoodle owners stick to two to three times per week, paying close attention to whether their dog needs an extra brushing session or two. You should bathe your Bernedoodle every two to three months and whenever they get into something dirty, like mud puddles. For both straight-haired Bernedoodles and curly-haired Bernedoodles, most groomers recommend you bring them in every four to six weeks for maintenance. However, a puppy is a different story and will likely take more effort on your part to train it to become accustomed to the process. The goal is to make brushing and bathing a positive experience for your Bernedoodle puppy so the process becomes easier each time you do it. To keep from scaring your puppy during bath time, pre-fill the tub or sink with lukewarm water before bringing it into the room. Be very gentle as you soak and wash it, giving more praise during the process. Refrain from scolding if it hesitates or is visibly afraid — this is an important part of their development, and fear can lead to anxiety issues later on. To do this, handle their paws beforehand, one at a time, increasing the amount of time each day. Once puppy vaccinations are complete, you can take them to the groomer. So, fill up the tub with lukewarm water, and be sure to soak it thoroughly before adding the shampoo. Give it a thorough rinse, then follow the same steps with the conditioner. Be sure to speak with your dog groomer first about what they recommend for your specific breed, as well as which services such as conditioning count as an additional option. Many Bernedoodle owners opt for a shorter haircut as it reduces at-home grooming time. You can also alternate Bernedoodle haircuts to try out different styles or get it ready for changing seasons. However, it will require more frequent brushing, especially if your Bernedoodle has curly hair. The Bernedoodle Summer Cut, as expected, is much shorter. The Bernedoodle Poodle Cut imitates the traditional look of a poodle and can become high maintenance, as the hair will be longer on some body parts. This cut works best on curly and wavy hair. The Bernedoodle Lamb Cut is another poodle hairstyle in which the hair is the same length all around with the face, feet and most of the tail shaved. Keep in mind that when you groom a Bernedoodle , it should be a bonding experience. So, learn to do it correctly and make sure you have the proper tools and the time to commit to your pup. Bernedoodles are an adorable mix of the Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles. They are a very robust dog breed and suitable for all types of families. Grooming Tips for Mini Bernedoodles Do you have to brush them regularly? Short answer, yes. Bernedoodles need their routine brushing from their owners. You need to brush a bernedoodle every 2 to 3 days. Visit your local pet groomer every six to eight weeks. This can keep your Mini Bernedoodles coat in great shape. Your mini bernedoodle will probably enjoy being brushed, brushing can help you develop a better relationship with your pet. This is what is referred to as matting. While matting does not seem much of a problem, it can be difficult to handle for both the owner and the dog. Mini bernedoodles have three types of coats — straight, wavy, and curly. But any coat can get matted, and this is why you should brush them regularly. If not taken care of, severe matting can cause pain and discomfort to the dog. You should never let your dog get to this point. A groomer is the best solution for avoiding this. How often do I need to bath my mini-bernedoodle? The key here is to remember that bathing them too much can ruin the protective oils on their coat. A good rule of thumb is to bathe your mini Bernedoodle once every three months or so. Remember to only use shampoos and conditioners that are recommended by your groomer. Which quickly leads people to their next question. Do Bernedoodles need grooming? The frequency of professional grooming will depend on their hair growth and the appearance the owner prefers. Routine brushing, combing, and bathing should be done between groomer visits to keep their coat healthy and free of painful and damaging mats. Ok, so you know that your Bernedoodle will need to see a Groomer from time to time. It spreads the naturally occurring oils throughout their coat, giving it a nice healthy shine. Since Bernedoodles shed very little, they should be brushed regularly to avoid tangles in their coat, which will lead to matting. Mats can be extremely uncomfortable to the dog and damaging to the coat. That will leave them with a patchy and unattractive coat. Most owners find that brushing times a week does the trick. Daily brushing early on will help them get used to being brushed and make them more tolerable of being groomed. Bernedoodles have different coat types, and each coat type has different attributes. Generally, the curlier the coat, the less it will shed and more brushing it will need. Straight coats are similar to the Bernese and have a slight wave to them. These coats will shed more noticeably than the others. Wavy coats generally work well for most individuals allergic to dog dander. Wavy coats are much softer and generally easier to brush and less prone to matting. Curly coats are similar to the coat of a Poodle and generally do not shed. Curly coats are by far the best coat for people suffering from dog dander allergies. Because of their tightly wound curls, these coats need more frequent brushing and are the most susceptible to matting. Mats And How To Avoid Them Matting may seem like nothing more than a slight inconvenience, but they can become a big nuisance to you and the dog. Because of the long curly hair, you may not see the sores, but the dogs can feel them. They also have the potential to spread to the rest of the body and cause the dog a lot of pain and discomfort. Once it gets to this point, you may have no choice but to go to a professional groomer and possibly a veterinarian. Groomers typically charge more when they have to remove mats due to its time-consuming nature. Yet another reason to take good care of your Doodles coat. The best way to avoid mats is to brush the Bernedoodle regularly and properly. One common mistake, which often leads to mats forming, is not brushing all the way to the skin. Be sure that the brush or comb is not just touching the top layer of hair, but is making it all the way to the base of the coat. The length of the coat also plays into the frequency of brushing needed. Longer coats will likely need to be brushed daily to keep them healthy and tangle-free. The coat needs these oils to keep both the skin and coat healthy. The dog needs these natural oils to keep the skin moisturized and healthy. With that said, the Bernedoodle should only be bathed every three to four months. If your Bernedoodle spends a lot of time outdoors and has a love of water and mud puddles, you may find yourself bathing him more often. If you let the coat dry, you may find that you can easily brush out the dirt and avoid having to bathe the dog. Oatmeal formulas tend to be fairly gentle. Brushing your Bernedoodle regularly is a great way to keep his hair clean, avoid the need for unnecessary bathing, and grow your bond with him. Be prepared for the fact that most groomers, even the best out there, are not experts at grooming Bernedoodles. Also do this on the sides of neck, from under their ears down to their elbows. Using scissors, cut the body length to three inches. Use scissors to shape the front legs like tubes from the elbows down to the foot, and back legs from the top of the hock to the foot. Pick up the foot, turning it over, so that you can comb the hair over pads and scissor it even with the pads. Place the foot down flat and scissor around it. Then place the foot down and scissor around the foot. For The Tail Use scissors to cut the tail so that its hair is a little longer than the hair on the body. The tail should be nicely blended into the body. For The Head Use thinning scissors on the top of the muzzle, from the nose to the eyes. Comb hair on top of the head over eyes and scissor cut the hair until the eyes are showing. Use scissors to cut under the muzzle and on the side of the muzzle to blend it into the rest of the head. Also clip on the sides of the neck, from under the ears to the elbows. Pick up the foot and turn over, so that you can comb the hair over pads. Scissor cut the hair so it is even with the pads. For The Tail Scissor cut the tail so that the hair is a little longer than the hair on the body. For The Head Using thinning scissors, cut on top of the muzzle, from the nose to the eyes. Comb hair on top of the head over the eyes and scissor cut the hair until the eyes are showing. Scissor cut the muzzle so there are no long ends. Check out our Bernedoodle Haircuts board on Pinterest for pictures and ideas of different cuts. Related Questions When should a Bernedoodle first go to the groomer? This is usually around 16 weeks or 4 months of age. To make it a little easier on the pup, ask the groomer to not use the clippers the first time. Just have a clean-up cut done with scissors around the eyes and feet, the coat brushed, ears cleaned, and nails trimmed. Reserve the clippers until the second or third visit. How long will a Bernedoodle coat get? The Bernedoodle coat will grow to several inches if left unattended. Bernedoodles love attention and love spending time with their owners. They enjoy it so much that regular grooming may even become something they anticipate with joy. References Rupke, Sherry. Bernedoodles: A Head to Tail Guide pp. Sherry Rupke, Sandy Rideout. Kindle Edition. Related Posts:. LinkedIn Giving your dog a bath is an important part of his grooming routine. It helps rid your pet of dead hair and dirt to avoid infections and diseases. For those with Bernedoodles, you should bathe your berne once in 3 months. They need these oils to keep their skin healthy and moisturized. When their skin gets dry, they would feel uncomfortable because it would cause itching and pain. Bathing also depends on the lifestyle and activity level of your dog. If he likes to go outside and play in the dirt, then you should bathe him more often. But if your berne just usually stays indoor, then you can follow the recommended bathing schedule for your doggo. In place of bathing, you can brush his coat frequently instead to keep it healthy and free of mats. When you give your Bernedoodle a bath, make sure you use dog shampoo or conditioner especially formulated for sensitive skin. You can bathe your pet by yourself or take him to the groomers. But as furparents, it is recommended that you know how to give your Bernedoodle a bath. It can save you big bucks and provide a great bonding activity between you and your pet. Your pet loves spending time with you even if that time is bath time. Get him used to his grooming routine so that he will learn to relax and even look forward to these moments. Remember to keep him calm and relaxed so you can make bath time an enjoyable experience for the both of you. Preparing Pups for Grooming The first step in grooming your puppy is preparing them for the grooming process. Your pup needs to be properly desensitized to a variety of stimuli such as running water, blow dryers and having their paws handled. It is important that you introduce your puppy to these experiences early on and in a kind manner so that they only associate these practices with positive experiences. Many puppies are afraid of the sound of running water, so try to have your sink or tub pre-filled prior to bathing your puppy. Be gentle with bathing your puppy and reward positive behavior with lots of love and praise. Do not be rough to your puppy in the bath or scold them for being afraid. Another experience that may be strange to your puppy is brushing. Your puppy will probably be unsure of what to think about having their hair brushed. Having their nails clipped is an unusual experience for all dogs, so it is best to prepare them early. Your Grooming Checklist In between professional grooming sessions, your Bernedoodle will require some maintenance care at home. The biggest one is daily maintenance of their coat. Bernedoodles have a hair coat, which means they are little-to-non shedding, however that can lead to matting of their coat over time if not properly maintained. Brush your Bernedoodle daily with a brush or comb. We love and highly recommend the Greyhound Comb! Your Bernedoodle may need bathing in between grooming appointments, but be careful not to over bathe! Most people think their pooch needs a bath once a week, however, too many baths can lead to dry, itchy and uncomfortable skin. If your puppy does suffer from dry skin especially in the colder months we recommend using a tea tree shampoo to soothe them! Always look for any unusual bumps, cuts or rashes when bathing your dog. First Trip to the Groomer! Once your pup has been fully vaccinated around weeks it is time for their first trip to the groomer! Even if you do not want your pup to receive a full groom at this time, we think it is very important to take your pup to the groomer anyway. Even if it is just for a quick bath and blow-dry, the earlier you can expose them to this practice, the more likely they are to acclimate to it without fear. We suggest taking your pup to the groomer every weeks for a professional bath and blow-dry. It is important to go with photos in mind of what you would like your pooch to look like. If you prefer a longer coat, remember that your upkeep is going to be much greater! Your groomer will be able to suggest to you different clipping options best suited for you and your Bernedoodle. Professional grooming should be done every weeks, with regular at-home maintenance in between. If you are ready to add a Midwest Bernedoodle to your family, please visit our available puppies page for updates on upcoming litters and open reservations. If you have any questions, feel free to check us out on Facebook or shoot us an email. We look forward to helping pair you with your new best friend! An eight-week-old puppy will likely not require much grooming, as they will have little hair. However, starting at this young age will help them get used to the process and keep their coat shiny and smooth. Puppies are very impressionable. Your Bernedoodle will be much less likely to react negatively to grooming if you begin as soon as you bring them home. On top of a daily brushing routine, your Bernedoodle will likely need regular professional grooming. Often, this is required to handle their hair growth, as many take after their Poodle parent in this regard. You can start these sessions as soon as your puppy is up-to-date on vaccinations. Usually, most groomers will allow the dog to come in after receiving their rabies vaccination at 12 to 16 weeks. Some owners may decide to wait longer — at least until the puppy has received multiple doses of other vaccinations, like canine distemper. You can speak to your vet about when the best time to start professional grooming sessions is. The earlier you start taking your puppy to a professional, the better adapted to these sessions. These sessions also provide a great deal of socialization, as your dog will be interacting with the groomer and potentially other dogs. We recommend that you start grooming your puppy at home as soon as possible. Grooming a Bernedoodle can be a bit complicated. They are a mixed breed, so their coat is not as standardized as other breeds. They may inherit genes from either of their parents, which will affect their coat. In general, Bernedoodle will need to be brushed two to three times a week. These sessions will help keep their fur sleek and free from tangles. With the right brush, you can often remove much of the dirt and debris during these brushing sessions, which will elongate the time they need between baths. You can start these at-home sessions as soon as you bring your puppy home. They may not need them quite as much as this young age. But starting new will make them more accepting of the brush later. Puppies are very adaptable and will become used to whatever they are around, including grooming. You should also get your puppy used to having their feet handled, as this is important for nail clipping. Do the same with their ears, as they will likely need to be cleaned every few months or so. Most Bernedoodles will need professional grooming and a haircut every two to three months. Many of them do not shed, so this haircut is essential to their overall wellbeing. Otherwise, their coat will keep getting longer. Most groomers will not allow your puppy to be groomed until they have received their rabies vaccination. Usually, this occurs between 16 to 18 weeks. But you can sometimes request it as early as .Some owners prefer to wait until their dog is wholly vaccinated at 16 weeks anyway. Waiting to get their rabies vaccination at this time often makes the most sense. We recommend getting your puppy to a groomer as soon as their vaccinations are complete. The earlier they start going to a groomer, the more comfortable they will be. Should you use grooming clippers to shave your dog down when it gets hot? It depends on their coat type. If your dog has a double coat, it is not recommended to shave them during the summer. A double-coat works by having a soft, insulating layer underneath a waterproof layer. If you shave them, these two layers will be at the same level. The insulating layer will not be protected from the elements, and neither will your dog. While a double-coat may seem thick, it is designed to keep the dog cool during the summer and warm during the winter. A Poodle does not have a double-coat, so they are less able to regulate their body temperature. We recommend trimming Poodle-like coats down in the summer months and then keeping them longer in the winter. For dogs with a Poodle-like coat, you can technically cut it down as much as you want. You could completely shave the dog, and the fur would still grow back fine. However, dogs with double coats should not be shaved down to their undercoat. However, they cannot be shaved down any considerable amount. Be sure to speak to a professional that has experience with these canines. Puppies usually cost less because they are smaller. It takes the groomer less time to groom them, and they can be handled more efficiently. However, you can expect your costs to increase as they age. The size of your dog also plays a significant role, as a larger dog will take longer to groom. Conclusion Bernedoodles should begin at-home grooming sessions as soon as you bring them home. Many breeders start grooming their puppies very early and can let you know their routine. They will not allow your puppy inside until then, as they can potentially catch diseases from the other dogs. And, in many areas, it is illegal for breeders to groom dogs that have not been vaccinated against rabies. Therefore, the odds of them catching an illness are relatively low. Plan to go to a professional groomer when they are around 16 weeks old. Author: Kristin Kristin was born in Tennessee and currently lives there with her husband and children. She is passionate about educating pet parents and helping them make the best possible decisions for their pets. She currently owns one dog, two cats, a lizard, and a variety of fish. Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.

My story started here. My best friend, my constant companion, everywhere I went, she went with me. She protected me, helped teach me about life, and was my Best friend for 16 years. My inspiration. I'm Robin.I breed long coated German shepherds. My dogs are from European countries with outstanding lines. I breed for temperaments, beautiful red and black color, quality not quantity. I am a small hobby breeder, breeding with attention to detail. My dogs live with me in my home, not outside in kennels. They are a part of our family. Feel free to visit our Ranch in Pennsylvania to see for yourself. SG1 Baldrsens Tequila is beautiful, graceful,and with great confirmation in show lines. Tequila is very protective of her family. Excellent Mother! They say the eyes are the mirror to the soul. Our Bobbie is protective of her family, a joy to be around and one of the prettiest long coat Black German shepherds I ever had the pleasure to own and love. Eve has Good Hips and Elbows, Dm test score is "A" Eve has matured into a very stunning female, highly intelligent, and is high drive with a willingness to learn. We are a small hobby breeder of West Showline German Shepherds with only a few litters a year. Our dogs are part of our family, share our home, and travel with us. We are located in Halifax, PA about 30 minutes north east of Harrisburg. I was impressed with their working ability and superior intelligence along with a loving demeanor that was absolutely unmatched. As I was learning more about the breed and looking for my perfect addition to my family, I saw the Long Coats for the first time and fell in love. Our dogs have brought pure joy and happiness into our home and it is our goal to bring the same joy and happiness into yours! They have sound temperaments, are very intelligent, easy to train, loyal, and protective. Everyone is encouraged to stop in for a visit of our home, meet our family, and see our GSD's. It is our goal to produce top quality German Shepherds with a stunning black and deep red coat with loving personalities, outstanding character, and family protection in one perfect package. Integrity is Very important with us, you will Never feel pressured into getting a Puppy, we are very honest and direct with our process and time table when we will have Puppies available. All the Information Posted about our Dogs can be verified through Documentation. Our Pictures are Never Altered or adjusted to mislead you into thinking our dogs are better than they are, and to be Honest we do not need too : The day you pickup your Bergerhaus puppy you will be invited into a Secret Facebook page called Bergerhaus Puppy Club if you so choose to accept here you can interact with others Bergerhaus puppy owners, watch littermates of your baby grow, become friends with other puppy owners, and ask advise from everyone in the group! NET I am no longer able to log in or send out from the epix. I apologize for any inconvenience. Thank you. With many years of experience in ethical, responsible breeding as members of the German Shepherd Dog Club of America - we adhere to the standards they provide. Our AKC registered dogs are deeply rooted in select German lines, and select American lines with a careful breeding plan we produce puppies, 4 to 6 annual litters, that excel as cherished family pets, working and show dogs. We are also expanding what we train or introduce our pups to, we have plans to bring in canine agility training and conformation. We remain active with our dogs and take great pride in ensuring that our pups are raised in a healthy, well socialized and loving environment. We talk below about some of the specialty areas that our pups have been and will continue to be successful in. You'll find our pups grow to be great protectors, wonderful pets, excellent in the fields of search and rescue, remarkable therapy dogs - it all begins with our puppy training. We are a small family breeder located in a rural community in Sullivan County, north central Pennsylvania's Endless Mountains Region. North Mountain is the highest mountain in this range. It is a wonderful place to live and a great place to raise, and companion with, German Shepherd dogs. Four years ago we were introduced to the West German Long Coat German Shepherds, and quickly realized they were an exceptional animal. We started with an impressive black and red long coat female, our Ana, and later purchased and imported two top quality puppies from Germany from reputable breeders. We believe the German Shepherds we breed should improve the health, quality, and temperament of the breed and should be able to be and do whatever the owner would want to accomplish with these wonderful dogs, whether it be for family, show or service. Above all, we strive for outstanding companions. We have been responsible pet owners and occasional breeders for many years. Our puppies are raised in a family environment with frequent exposure to kids we have seven grandchildren , other animals, and a variety of experiences to encourage socialization and stable temperament. We are very well versed in what it takes to raise outstanding puppies and are dedicated and prepared to make this happen.

Best Starter Foods for Golden Retriever Newborn month old : After your Golden Retriever puppy completes 1 month, they should be introduced to a good starter dog food which is an ideal transition from maternal milk to solid foods. These foods meet both the energy and dietary needs of the pups during their weaning phase. The starter foods can also be served to lactating mothers, fulfilling their high energy demands during the nursing period. Here are a few starter food options: 1 Royal Canin Maxi Starter Imperial Royal Canin Maxi Starter is healthfully complete starter nourishment meant exclusively for a large breed dog like Golden Retriever. It has all the significant components for keeping great wellbeing in both the lactating bitch and her little puppies. The benefits of Royal Canin Maxi Starter: The kibble rehydrates rapidly into porridge-like consistency, making it very delicious. Supports excellent digestive health. Strengthens the natural defence of both the mother and pups. Contains essential vitamins and minerals which improve cellular health and immunity. Prebiotics and probiotics in the diet assist gentle and healthy digestion. Contains lean proteins to build strong muscle mass. Consists of natural ingredients that support a higher nutrient absorption and a healthy bowel activity. Consequently, they should be fed at least three times each day. A typical Golden Retriever Puppy consumes around calories a day. Nutritional Requirements of Golden Retriever Puppy 1. Having a good measure of fats in their diet gives them a consolidated energy source for keeping up a functioning way of life. The unsaturated fats too help to brace their skin health. Omega Fatty Acids: Omega 3 and Omega 6 essential fatty acids are vital elements in their diet for keeping strong bones and joints. It also offers good anti-inflammatory effect, that reduces pain and swelling in the joints. The kibble size and shape perfectly adapts to the jaws of a puppy Golden Retriever. Consists of natural fibres to promote excellent digestion in pups. Anti-oxidants build a strong defence mechanism in the pups. The benefits of Orijen Puppy Large Breed: Biologically appropriate food that maintains supreme health and wellbeing in pups. Infusions of freeze-dried chicken and turkey liver make the food highly palatable. Natural sources of Glucosamine and Chondroitin keep strong muscles and joints. Clinically proven anti-oxidants maintain a strong immunity in puppies. Unlike puppies, most grown up Golden Retrievers are satisfied with 2 meals per day. Taurine keeps good cardiac function and also healthy eyesight in the dogs. Contains dietary fibres that keep healthy gut and excellent digestive functioning. Extensive protein content to enhance muscle mass and strength. High quality meat and rice offering greater taste and nutritional value. The low glycemic index of the food eliminates obesity and diabetes in the dogs. Pumpkin as an ingredient regulates intestinal motility. They become less active and therefore a little vulnerable to obesity. It is critical to nourish them with low-calorie sustenance as it keeps an ideal body weight and consequently puts less pressure on the joints. Also owing to their low exercise requirements, they only consume around Calories daily. Low Carbohydrate Content: A diet that has low carbs keeps a healthy blood sugar level in the dog, thus eliminating diabetes and obesity. High Fibre Content: Nature Fibres are essential for Senior Golden Retrievers for keeping an ideal body weight and excellent digestive health. Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Having traces of Glucosamine and Chondrotin in the diet of a senior Golden Retriever, alleviate pain produced in bones and joints. Best Foods For Senior Golden Retrievers 1 Orijen Senior Food In case you are searching for organically proper sustenance that has a low glycemic record that keeps diabetes and obesity at bay in your senior Golden Retrievers, you can have Orijen Senior Food which is effectively the best eating regimen for senior Golden Retrievers. A low carb content keeps an ideal weight and a healthy blood sugar level. Highly delicious meal having fresh Free Run Chicken and Turkey tempts the fussiest of eaters. It comprises of edible protein supporting pure osmosis of supplements and furthermore has L-Carnitine which consumes the abundance of fat stores in the body. The ideal ratio of Omega 3 and Omega 6 controls blood clotting and maintains the health and sheen of the coat. Essential vitamins and minerals keep a robust immune system. Below are some of the foods that should not be given to a Golden Retriever: 1. Raw Eggs. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. We all love our pets and we generally turn to the big named brands to ensure we get the right pet foods. However, it really is no secret that Pedigree has been one of the most popular brands on the market for decades. When the brand got its first big recognition, their marketing efforts were geared toward breeders and show dogs. However, over the years, the brand has shifted its marketing focus to more closely on shelter dogs, subsequently ending their partnership with the esteemed dog show. This article will take a deeper look into what this commercial dog food is actually made of and explore what customers really think of one of the most well-known dog food brands out there today. Our Rating After comparing multiple sites along with customer reviews of Pedigree Dog Food ingredients and satisfaction, Pedigree receives 3 out of 5 stars. If you want to see our top-rated dog food read the guide here. Reviews The Pedigree Dog Food reviews were quite shocking given the fact that the brand has been a household name for quite a while. There was obviously a need to determine the answer to the question is Pedigree a good dog food because there have been studies and analyses completed regarding the ingredients found in the well-known dog food. Unfortunately, while reviews from chewy. Pros Dogs Prefer Most of the comments regarding the canned food on chewy. Customers stated that while they have tried other brands, they have found that their dogs specifically choose Pedigree more frequently. There is also no denying that Pedigree dog food contains a source of essential vitamins and minerals, such as d-calcium pantothenate, monocalcium phosphate , potassium iodide, potassium chloride, and folic acid. Price Customers reported enjoying the price point of Pedigree because it was affordable with an ingredient list they could agree with respectfully. While corn is inexpensive and used mostly as a filler, dogs have a hard time digesting it. It has also been proven that corn is known to cause many allergies and skin issues for dogs; therefore, it is hard to understand why corn would be the number one listed ingredient in this dog food. Among the top ingredients listed were corn gluten meal, soybean meal, and ground whole wheat. With that much grain in one recipe, dogs are bound to produce much more gas and waste than ever necessary. Colors and Dyes According to Dog Food Insider, a breakdown of the ingredients list for a complete Pedigree Dog Food review showed that artificial colors and dyes were used frequently in all of their recipes. The customers even stated that their dogs refused to eat Pedigree Dog Food after just one taste. These were among the most common complaints found on the purchase sites. Watch this video from a veterinary surgeon for more pros and cons: Product Line. Save Synopsis Pedigree dog food is the perfect choice for pet owners who prioritize their furry friend's well-being. These carefully crafted formulas are packed with high-quality ingredients that promote strong immunity, healthy digestion, and a lustrous coat. Ignite their vitality and delight with the finest Pedigree dog food, providing enduring moments of wagging tails and boundless happiness throughout their entire lives. Team ProductLine Choosing the right dog food is of utmost importance when it comes to the health and well-being of your canine companion, and Pedigree dog food stands out for several reasons. It is carefully formulated with high-quality ingredients that provide essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals tailored to meet the specific needs of dogs. By promoting a healthy digestive system, Pedigree helps minimize the risk of digestive issues, ensuring that your dog gets the maximum benefit from their food. Pedigree dog food contributes to various aspects of your dog's well-being. It supports strong immunity through the inclusion of antioxidants and essential nutrients. It also promotes healthy skin and a shiny coat with the incorporation of key fatty acids. Additionally, Pedigree includes specialized kibble shapes and textures that aid in dental care, helping to keep your dog's teeth clean and their oral health in check. With Pedigree, you can have confidence that you're giving your dog the nutrition they need to thrive and enjoy a vibrant, active life by your side. List of the best Pedigree dog food Name. Ingredients: ground whole grain corn, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain wheat, soybean meal, meat and bone meal, animal fat source of omega 6 fatty acids [preserved with bha and citric acid] , brewers rice, natural flavor source of chicken flavor , corn gluten meal, salt, monocalcium phosphate, fish oil [source of dha] preserved with mixed tocopherols , brewers dried yeast, potassium chloride, calcium carbonate, choline chloride, dl-methionine, dried peas, zinc sulfate, l-tryptophan, vitamin e supplement, yellow 5, yellow 6, blue 2, dried carrots, copper sulfate, red 40, niacin supplement, sodium selenite, potassium lodide, d-calcium pantothenate, vitamin a supplement, riboflavin supplement vitamin b2 , vitamin b12 supplement, thiamine mononitrate vitamin b1 , vitamin d3 supplement, pyridoxine hydrochloride vitamin b6 , folic acid Shipping details Estimated ship dimensions: 3. This item must be returned within 90 days of the date it was purchased in store, shipped, delivered by a Shipt shopper, or made ready for pickup. See the return policy for complete information.

Our 'Puppy Quickstart Program' makes bringing a new puppy into your home easier! Do you want a german shepherd puppy.We offer shipping to select states and countries around the world for these trained puppies. Please note: availability for this year is extremely limited. The answer all depends. .From weeks your puppy is in its first fear stage, which is critical for expose to scenarios they will encounter in their future adult life. During this stage, puppies should be exposed to new people and other healthy dogs, as well as differing terrain and environment. These experiences provide the foundation for the adult dog they will eventually become, but first it's important for them to become a trained puppy. It is vital to keep all activities and real-world exposure extremely positive, safe and monitored as you train your puppy. This time period is critical for their future temperament and personality. If you work a normal job, putting the necessary hours into training your puppy during it's first month at home ages weeks may not be entirely possible. And leaving your young un-crate trained puppy alone in his or her crate for an entire day is sure to have detrimental affects down the road. Training a German Shepherd puppy is hard enough. When you leave the pup in their crate all day, this "ball of energy" becomes even harder to train and house-break. Introducing, the Puppy Quickstart program.The long-requested "trained puppy program" is finally here at Hayes Haus. Here's how it works: From ages weeks of your puppy's life, he or she will remain at Hayes Haus and partake in an extremely regimented training program. During this program, your new puppy will be monitored round-the-clock to ensure proper training and development, which includes but is not limited to socialization with strangers including well-behaved children as well as safe cats and dogs. In order for your puppy to be obey you around other pets, it's important to begin training them at an early age to do so. What goes into a "Trained Puppy Program"? On any particular day at Hayes Haus, your puppy will be going through any number of proven-safe scenarios for puppies. We take short rides in the car to some of our neighborhood parks and trails to use some of the natural obstacles; we teach puppies to pleasantly accept grooming and expose them to bathing; we instill good habits such as keeping your paws on the floor and eliminating on leash; we also use puppy games to teach important life commands. Here's a more in-depth breakdown for you: Training begins at 3 weeks of age, teaching the puppy to make eye contact The puppies are monitored around the clock and follow a very regimented schedule will send exact training schedule to the email address you enter above Socialization exercises are conducted daily All trained german shepherd puppies are available for pickup at 14 weeks of age. At this time, your puppy will know his or her name and be used to the schedule you provide us, which helps with easier integration into your home. When your puppy comes home, they'll be crate-trained, and have the groundwork extensive exposure to training for the following commands: Sit. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.