bernedoodle puppies for sale dublin ohio

Standard Goldendoodles can weigh anywhere between 50 and 90 pounds. Personality The place where the Goldendoodle puppy really excels is its personality. Its breed is known for being simultaneously intelligent and adoring. A Goldendoodle puppy is very sociable, which makes them perfect animals for households with children and other animals or pets, even cats. Just like the Labradoodle, this breed requires correct socialization to ensure they get used to different sights, sounds and smells during puppyhood. This means taking your Goldendoodle to plenty of doggy-friendly parks so they can meet canine friends and introducing them to other people. Our Goldendoodle puppies for sale are fully trained Doodles, so you can focus on the fun bits, like bonding, eating food and playing. These dogs prefer to live in a house with a gated backyard where they can get regular exercise breaks. Do They Like to Play? Goldendoodle Puppy Training These clever dogs are perfect for first-time dog owners because Goldendoodles love to please and take great pride in learning new skills. Are Goldendoodles Intelligent? Both of its poodle and golden retriever parent breeds are known for their intelligence and trainability, and Goldendoodles have inherited this breed trait. This means the person training a Goldendoodle needs to be strong-willed, firm and consistent — but never harsh or aggressive. Much like a poodle, Doodles are sensitive dogs, and positive reinforcement is a must to bring out the best in them. How Obedient Are They? Goldendoodle pups adore human company, and making their pet parents happy brings them genuine satisfaction. As such, correct puppy training produces a highly obedient and loyal adult Goldendoodle. Older adults, people with disabilities and individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders can benefit significantly from the warmth and sweetness of these adorable Goldendoodle pups. Are They Easy to Train? Doodle puppies can be mischievous and cheeky, but aggression is practically unheard of. So as long as you treat them with the same gentle respect they offer, a Goldendoodle is one of the easiest dog breeds to train. Goldendoodles have loads of energy and require regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and calm temperament. A Goldendoodle need a moderately high level of outdoor activity — usually a minimum of 30 minutes, but ideally one hour, of moderate to vigorous exercise per day will keep Goldendoodle puppies at their best. Unlike puppy mills, all good puppy and dog breeders provide a certificate that shows health clearances. At Pride and Prejudoodles, our tests cover common health conditions. As such, you have peace of mind when purchasing your new puppy from us. How Long Do Goldendoodles Live? Goldendoodles live for between 10 and 15 years. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Goldendoodle puppies for adoption. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Lenexa Kansas and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted! You can check with local breeders, search online for reputable breeders, or check with your local pet store. What are Goldendoodle puppies? Goldendoodles near you are crossbreed between a Golden Retriever and a Miniature Poodle. They typically weigh between 15 and 35 pounds and stand about 13 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder. These dogs have become increasingly popular due to their friendly, social nature and their hypoallergenic coat. They are great for families with young children or other pets, as they are very tolerant and gentle. Mini Goldendoodles require moderate exercise and are highly adaptable to different living situations, making them an ideal choice for both city and country dwellers. What is the Temperament of Golden doodles? Goldendoodles are known for their friendly, affectionate personalities. They are highly social dogs that thrive on attention and love to be around people. They are also great with children and other pets, making them an ideal family dog. Goldendoodles are intelligent and easy to train, making them a popular choice for first-time dog owners. They require regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy, but are not high-energy dogs that need constant stimulation. Overall, the temperament of a Goldendoodle is loving, loyal, and adaptable to a variety of lifestyles and living situations. Goldendoodle puppies for sale near me. This is a loving Golden Doodle Puppy who is raised with children and is a real sweetie pie and social. He enjoys to be around people and will make a great addition to your home. This puppy has a real zest for life and loves to play, play, play! He is AKC registered, vet checked, vaccinated, wormed and comes with a 1 year genetic health guarantee. If you are looking for an attractive Lab puppy to join your family…you have found him! Call today!!

If you guessed the Bernedoodle, then you are right. This beautiful hybrid is a new doodle than the Goldendoodle , but it has certainly stolen the hearts of dog lovers across the United States. Just like its Poodle parent, the Bernedoodle is an intelligent canine breed that is easy to train and can hence be used as a service and work dog. For lovers of the Bernedoodle residing in the beautiful state of Florida, we have provided a list of 10 very good breeders of the Bernedoodle residing in the state. These breeders are proven to be reputable and are deeply in love with the designer dog breed. They produce numerous Bernedoodle puppies for families across the United States. They have dedicated over 20 years to raising high-quality family companions that also double as incredible work and service dogs. They breed Berndoodles of medium and miniature sizes as well as Bernedoodles of colors and variations. Their puppies have grown up to become great therapy dogs that assist people suffering from PTSD, depression, and a couple of other psychological issues. Their puppies are from the F1b, the F1bbb, multigene, and F2b generations. Their puppies are home raised on their large property in Florida, where they get all the needed attention for more stable growth. They are fed with the best in puppy food and are placed on the needed supplements to help improve their growth. They get to sleep in warm temperature-regulated environments and are properly socialized with both people and pets. They get to experience new environments, car rides, sounds, sights, and textures as are needed for more well-rounded dogs. Their puppies are also well trained, with potty and crate training. They have a standard but strict breeding line that ensures only the best of the best AKC registered sires and dams are used. These breeding dogs are blessed with very impressive pedigrees and each comes to form impressive backgrounds. Their genetic health testing is done to ensure you are getting puppies free from genetic health defects. All their Bernedoodle puppies come with a written health guarantee that lasts for a period of 2 years. They are health checked by a licensed vet and each has their vaccination and deworming records updated. PuppySpot Looking for a Bernedoodle puppy in Florida? PuppySpot is the perfect resource for you! In addition to providing access to quality breeders, PuppySpot offers personalized guidance from their team of dedicated puppy managers. They also offer access to a network of veterinarians and trainers to help you provide the best possible care for your new furry family member. Plus, each Bernedoodle puppy comes with a comprehensive health guarantee for your peace of mind. PuppySpot is dedicated to giving back to the pet community by supporting various animal-related charities and initiatives. You can get in touch with the breeder for more information regarding this issue. This breeder offers mini, medium, and standard-sized Bernedoodles. You can choose between F1 and F1b pups, although F1b puppies are better for people with pet allergies. It is the first place on this list for a reason! This is one of the best Bernedoodle breeders in Florida for the reasons described above and for delivering the puppies themselves no matter where you are. Highfalutin Furry Babies delivers puppies anywhere around the world except Australia. Contact Information: Phone number: Not specified. Email: You can get in touch with this breeder via email by sending an application through their website. Besides raising Bernedoodle puppies , they also breed miniature livestock. Thus, each dog has enough space to run freely and socializes with different people and animals on a daily basis. Their website displays information about their family, how they breed their dogs, and other animals they have for sale. Like the previous breeder, Juniper Crossing Farms is registered within the United Bernedoodle group due to the high quality of their dogs. A certified veterinarian has thoroughly examined all parents. You can check out the adult dogs under their care at the moment via their website. Furthermore, each puppy comes with a two-year health guarantee against genetic diseases, such as hip dysplasia or retinal eye disease. Still, you can be sure that your puppy will be in the best shape possible once it is ready to come home. If Bernedoodles are not available at the moment, they also breed Aussiedoodles. Contact Information:. View Our Available Bernedoodle Puppies! Standard Bernedoodles are bigger than Mini Bernedoodles reaching weights of pounds. They average inches in height at the shoulders when fully grown. Our Standard Bernedoodle puppies are all 1st generation-F1 variety puppies. They have purebred Bernese Mountain dogs for moms and the dads are Standard poodles. Their Standard Bernedoodles life expectancy is years old. Blue Diamond Bernedoodles have a loving, easy-going, and calm temperament. Bernedoodles are very loyal and social and love to spend time with their parents. Standard Bernedoodles need regular grooming because of their curly and thick coats. Shedding is very minimal after their first haircut and grooming. This breed is known to be a hypoallergenic choice. Here at Blue Diamond Family Kennels, we specialize in breeding Standard Bernedoodles along with a few other great breeds. We have teamed up with a few other reputable Bernedoodle breeders that breed and raise Bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. On our Standard Bernedoodle puppies page you will see all of our available puppies for sale. If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More Planning to expand your family with a little pooch? By combining these two breeds, we get the most intelligent and affectionate pup that comes with a low-shedding coat. The perfect choice for people who suffer from dog dander allergy. See Also: Click the image So, what are the things you should look for in a reputable Bernedoodle breeder in Florida? This is a crucial step, as it helps minimize the risk of the puppies inheriting any genetic conditions that could seriously affect their quality of life, or even lifespan. Having said that, ethical Bernedoodle breeders in Florida will also back their promises with health guarantees. A good health warranty usually covers any serious genetic conditions and hereditary illnesses for the first one or two years from adoption. For more detailed information on this topic, make sure you check out our in-depth guide on How To Choose A Responsible Breeder. They raise all of their puppies in a clean and loving family environment indoors. From day one, they make sure that each puppy is handled and cared for every single day. Of course, they also nurture and spoil their mamas and papas. They feed their dogs and puppies high-quality dog food formulas and supplement them with NuVet vitamins. What Makes This Breeder Unique? Not only do they provide the parent dogs and puppies a safe and nurturing environment, many of their pups have gone on to become therapy and working service dogs. Some pups are trained to assist with diabetic and seizure detection, others have become successful PTSD support dogs. Moreover, check out our Google reviews or Facebook. We want you to enjoy the love of your furry friend no matter where in the US you live. That is why we offer you two puppy transportation options. First, you can come to us and pick up your puppy personally. That is the best way, both for you and us, as we can get to know each other, and you can see for yourself why so many pup owners choose CID as their Bernedoodle breeder. You can still become a proud dog owner of one of our available Bernedoodle puppies. Like most Doodle dogs, Bernedoodles resemble either parent and can inherit the coat type of the Poodle, the Bernese, or a combination of the two. Regarding coat texture, Bernedoodles range from straight, wavy, or curly hair. Bernedoodle puppies can inherit coloring from the Poodle and be black and white, black and brown, and even spotted. Are Bernedoodles Hypoallergenic? However, most Poodle mix dogs tend not to shed. If you have allergies, there is still a chance you could be allergic to a Bernedoodle. What are the available Bernedoodle sizes? It can reach 10 to 14 inches and weigh less than pounds. Tiny Bernedoodles are challenging to breed. Often, Mini Bernedoodles are bred with Toy Poodles to make this hybrid. Mini Bernedoodle Puppies: Mini Bernedoodles are 15 to 20 inches tall, and their weight can range from 25 to 50 pounds. Standard Bernedoodles: The Standard Bernedoodle ranges from 22 to 29 inches tall while weighing 75 pounds and above. Where in Florida can I take my new Bernedoodle puppy? When it comes to dog-friendly travel destinations, Florida offers a wide array of beaches and parks, restaurants, activities and tours you can enjoy with the whole family. Head to Hobie Beach for fun in the sun beach extravaganza! Hobie is a dog-friendly off-leash park located off of the Rickenbacker Causeway heading to Key Biscayne. If you are in the mood for a subdued Miami shopping experience — the shops and restaurants at Bal Harbour, The Village at Merrick Park and Brickell are also open to pets. Across the Peninsula, the gulf shores of Sarasota, Venice, and Bradenton have a string of beaches that are dog friendly.

Contact Us We have a beautiful litter of stunning chocolate labrador girl puppies available to only the best loving homes, born on 22nd July. Our dogs are championship show winners, and our puppies are bred from hip X rayed, eye tested parents of superb quality from long-established proven bloodlines, with wonderful temperaments. We would like potential Labrador owners to realise that it is a huge responsibility and long-term commitment purchasing a chocolate labrador puppy, which is going to mature into a large, strong dog requiring plenty of daily exercise. Homes where the puppy is to be left alone all day are unsuitable, as labradors require company, affection, house-training and exercise. It will be necessary to have a fully-fenced garden and, whilst our labradors are wonderful with small children, puppies should not be regarded as their toys and they must be very well cared and above all loved. Since then family life at Llanstinan has included a house full of Labradors, later to include blacks and yellows. The first litter was bred to give Lynda's 4 young children an insight into life with Labradors. All Llanstinan labrador puppies are insured, microchipped and have excellent pedigrees. They are sturdy chunky puppies with lovely heads and superb outgoing temperaments. They are always whelped in the house, are lavishly reared and are very well socialised with other animals and small children. Lots of relatives of the puppies are resident at Llanstinan, including mother, sometimes father, grandmother, and great grandmother, along with aunts and uncles who all welcome visitors giving a true labrador welcome. Puppies leave for their new homes after they have been checked by the Vet and micro-chipped. They leave with a full puppy pack which includes copies of both parents' health certificates, a 5 generation pedigree, contract of sale and a detailed diet sheet. A copy of Ann Britton's book 'Labrador Retriever' - understanding and caring for your breed, is also given to each new puppy owner. The author of this excellent book, Ann Britton has spent a lifetime with labradors. She judged bitches at Crufts , she is an international show judge and is a breeder of Champion labradors. She also has a weekly column in 'Our Dogs'. Her dogs, several which have Llanstinan breeding, can be seen on www. The children used to dress them up, sleep with them, play with them, and love them. Now the children are all grown up, their own children all have an endless passion for our gorgeous chocolate brown labrador puppies. Chocolate Lab puppy Gallery. Both parents come from a 5-generation pedigree. Mother is IKC registered. Grandparents and great grandparents are field trial champions. Father is a strong, chunky Labrador with an excellent breeding background, he was never registered but both grandparents were IKC reg. Both mother and father are cherished family pets, live together and can be seen. Parents are gentle natured, excellent with kids and have great personalities. Owners are vets themselves. This is our first and last litter as we are not breeders. We wanted to keep a line from both parents which was the motivation to have a litter. Our beautiful puppies are happy, healthy, and very confident. They have a fantastic temperament. Pups have been raised in our family home ensuring they have been well socialised with kids and other animals such as cats. These confident puppies are extremely intelligent and will be easy to train! They are already semi-toilet trained and have great re-call. Puppies are very affectionate and loved by all the family hence we are only looking for suitable home as a family pet or loyal companion. All pups are - Vet health checked - Vaccinated - Microchipped - Wormed at 2,4,6 and 8 weeks - Treated for fleas and mites. Pups will be ready to go to their forever homes from September 17th. For more information or to arrange to view the puppies please call or email me on or megandoherty00 gmail. If I do not answer please leave a message and I will get back to you. Thank you!

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. Look no further than Hooch Jr. With his endearing resemblance to the iconic Hooch from the movies, Hooch Jr. His expressive eyes and that classic pitty smile will melt away your worries in an instant. But wait, there's more — Hooch Jr. It's like he's a master at tugging at your heartstrings with every glance. Hooch Jr. He thrives on human companionship and can't wait to become your new best friend. While he's more than happy to make new furry buddies, his heart truly belongs to his human family. He's a prime example of a lap dog trapped in a slightly larger body, and he's guaranteed to provide you with an endless supply of cuddles, snuggles, and affectionate gazes. Whether it's a romp in the yard or a leisurely stroll with his canine pals, Hooch Jr. This little guy is no slouch when it comes to learning. And if you're a fan of peaceful walks, you're in luck! He's a leash-walking extraordinaire, making every stroll a breeze. If you're looking for a furry companion who wears his heart on his paw, Hooch Jr. His enthusiasm for life and his love for everyone he meets are truly heartwarming. Whether you're young or young at heart, he's bound to wrap you around his little paw with his irresistible charm and his expertly executed pout lip. If you're ready to open your heart and home to a forever friend, don't miss the chance to bring Hooch Jr. He is microchipped, current on his vaccinations and preventatives. If someone has caught your eye and you wish to arrange a meet and greet, we do need you to fill out the adoption application. When your adoption application is received our screening team will verify the information given. Once your application has been confirmed and approved, we will be send it over to the foster parent for review to determine if your home is a good match for the dog. In the event one lucky dog receives multiple applications, please know we do not select based on a first come basis. We try our best to select the best-fit for our animals and families.

Sometimes the blue coloring is due to a coat color called merle , which features "irregularly shaped patches of diluted pigment and solid color," according to the University of California, Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory. Merle is incredibly popular, but it can become harmful for dogs in some cases: Breeding two merle-colored dogs together can lead their puppies to have auditory and visual problems. Other dogs from certain breeds sometimes rarely have blue eyes. German Shepherds, for example, will rarely have blue eyes due to a genetic variation , though most breeders consider it a fault. Sometimes dogs will have two differently colored eyes, with one blue or partially blue, which is called heterochromia which can sometimes indicate a health problem. Scientists have also found that for some breeds, blue eyes are caused by a genetic mutation that is passed down through recessive genes, which means both of the parent dogs must carry the gene to pass it to their offspring, according to National Geographic. For other breeds, blue eyes are the result of a genetic mutation that actually results in decreased pigmentation, so the dogs' eyes aren't really blue — they just look like they are. But, in addition to the fascinating — and confusing — science behind the trait, dogs with blue eyes are mesmerizing just because, well, they are. Here are 10 dog breeds that can have striking blue eyes. Also, contrary to what their name tells you, Australian Shepherds likely originated in the Basque region of Spain. Melanin is what determines eye color, and when puppies are born, their eyes don't produce enough of it to give them a clear color. Something similar can happy with white babies, who are often born with blue eyes that then change to green or hazel or brown. Shepherds with the variation are often called Blue German Shepherds. Often, blue eyes in a Shepherd would result if the dog is actually a mix with something like a Husky. Border Collies with just one blue eye are called "walleyed. When the Great Dane has a merle gene that causes merle coat coloring their blue eyes can remain. The black-and-white coat that can cause blue eyes in a Great Dane is known as "harlequin," according to the AKC. Sanitary Wipes Can German Shepherds have blue eyes? Blue eyes are possible in German Shepherds , although it is scarce. Brown eyes are the most prevalent in German Shepherds. However, some exceptions exist where some German Shepherds possess grey, hazel, amber, and green eyes. How rare is a German Shepherd with blue eyes? Blue eyes are occasionally seen in German Shepherd dogs. It fades into dark brown eyes over time in most of these cases and is only seen in very young puppies. Adult German Shepherds can have blue eyes due to a rare gene mutation in both parent breeds; however, it is rare. Many mature German Shepherds have brown eyes, but blue eyes are prevalent in mixed-breed dogs. Can Purebred German Shepherds have blue eyes? No, because it is not in the breed standard. A healthy purebred German Shepherd will not have blue eyes. Can German Shepherds be odd-eyed? A German Shepherd can possess two blue eyes or be odd-eyed i. While most breeders consider the feature a flaw, many dog owners believe it is desirable. These dogs are often referred to as Blue German Shepherds not only because they have blue eyes. They have classic markings, and the recessive gene responsible for the blue eyes can also give them dark patches on the hair, which seem more blue or silver instead of the usual black. Blue-eyed German Shepherd Dogs are classified into three groups. These can be summed up as follows: 1. However, puppies do not produce a large amount of melanin before or after birth. As a result of this, nearly all German Shepherd puppies will have blue eyes when they are born. Understanding Punnett squares, genetics, and phenotypes will improve your chances of acquiring blue-eyed German Shepherds. A genotype is a group of genes that determines how the body functions. A phenotype is an observable physical characteristic that can be classified. The phenotype is influenced directly by the genotype. For instance, If you possess a tall height gene, it will show in your phenotype, and you will be taller than an average individual. The ability to see the phenotypes of their animals and the progeny they produce is beneficial to dog breeders. It will help them determine genotypes within their breeding pairs using this knowledge. And also, they can use this information to select breeding pairs based on their genetic compatibility. You can also conduct a genetic analysis for your dog. However, this form of expert testing is better suited to individuals looking to avoid congenital disorders caused by inbreeding rather than identifying the eye color of future pups. Genetic Mutation German Shepherds result from more than a century of inbreeding, which is notorious for producing recessive genetic disorders. As a result, offspring from breeding parents with blue eyes recessive alleles may be predominantly dark-eyed. However, their offspring may get the recessive blue-eye feature. In that case, there is a higher chance of getting blue-eyed puppies. Health concerns for Blue German Shepherds German Shepherds with blue eyes are usually equally as healthy as those with brown eyes. However, your dog could be at risk for various health issues, ranging from pigmentation loss to genetic flaws. Skin Disorders German Shepherds are highly vulnerable to skin infections and allergies. However, the presence of recessive alleles for blue eyes makes their vulnerability skyrocket! Genes function primarily to regulate skin cell production. They produce new skin cells to replace dead ones. Recessive genes function differently. It increases the likelihood of your dog developing a skin disease. The presence of the merle mutation increases the risk of auditory and ocular defects such as hearing loss and blindness. To rule out any congenital disabilities, perform an ear and eye examination for your dog. Sensitivity to Light A lack of melanin characterizes blue eyes, which does not appear to be a problem until you realize that melanin protects the eyes from UV rays! As a result of their light sensitivity, blue-eyed German Shepherds are frequently seen squinting or avoiding sunlight. How to care for your blue-eyed German Shepherd? If you suspect that your German Shepherd is suffering from eye pain, here are a few preventive measures you can take: Use of doggie shades As previously stated, German Shepherds with blue eyes may be light sensitive. As a result, taking your dog out on bright days may cause discomfort. You can buy a pair of doggie sunglasses to protect their eyes from sun rays. Eye ointments In case of an eye infection or injury, contact your vet immediately. You can apply an eye ointment as a handy treatment to tackle the problem right away rather than waiting for the vet. Always make use of wet sanitary wipes to keep their eyes clean and hygienic. Oh, the humanity! Fret not, this article should shed a bit more light on this uncommon occurrence, why it happens and how it affects you. What are normal purebred German Shepherd eye colors? Different shades of brown, green, hazel …and blue are normal eye colors. But green, gray and hazel-colored eyes are also normal. More importantly, although blue eyes are rare, depending on the circumstances, they can occur naturally in German Shepherds. The recessive gene or a mutation therein, is typically the main reason as to why every once in a while, a black German Shepherd with blue eyes comes out of a German Shepherd litter of mainly brown-eyed offspring. If you still remember your biology class back in high school with your teacher endlessly droning on about Gregor Mendel and his genetics work, then worrying about your black German Shepherd with blue eyes is a textbook example of this application. German Shepherd eye color changes happen much in the same way that eye color changes happen in normal dogs. Recent research has shown that the amino acid melanin is chiefly responsible for lighter or darker shades of eye colors in dogs. Melanin also determines coat color. More on this later. Is my German Shepherd still a purebred if it has blue eyes? Yes, but not necessarily. To understand why blue-eyed purebred German Shepherds are such a controversial topic, it pays to know why purebred dogs are so highly-valued. Continuing on this line of thinking, blue eyes are a common trait inherent to the Siberian Husky breed and may be a telltale sign that your German Shepherd is not purebred. Purebred dogs are typically associated with the following traits: Well-socialized Prone to suffer genetically-acquired diseases Typically the only kinds of dogs recognized and supported by kennel clubs While mixed-breed dogs are known to exhibit the following: Prone to suffer fear-based behavior problems Have a higher risk of contracting infectious diseases Generally accepted as being more hardy than purebreds It is important to note, however, that white German Shepherds also known as White Shepherds are recognized as their own breed, and should not be confused with mixed-breeds or an offshoot genetic mutation. See also The German Shepherd Dachshund Mix Breed Guide And Information If you find cause for concern regarding your white German Shepherd with blue eyes or any kind of dog with unusually colored eyes for that matter , do some research, reach out to your local vet and inquire about genetic testing for your pet. Is it normal for German Shepherd eyes to change color over time? Melanin as a contributing factor to German Shepherd eye color change was a fact mentioned earlier. This happens because melanin takes time to produce. Because this is the case, it is not uncommon for a baby German Shepherd with blue eyes to have its eye color change over the course of a few months. On the same note, it is normal to find puppies with blue eyes regardless of breed because of this lack of melanin. In addition, it should also be noted that other eye conditions may result in eye color changes for your German Shepherd. All the more so if your German Shepherd is a puppy! More often than not, there are plenty of conditions that account for German Shepherd eye color changes or blue eyes outside of breed. See also The Blue Heeler German Shepherd Mix Breed Guide On the downside, this may mean that there is a small chance your German Shepherd is experiencing some kind of degenerative eye disease or disorder. But in any case, with the advent of modern technology, it should be easier than ever to inquire about your German Shepherd with blue eyes, including requesting genetics tests. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Jul 22, Share You have probably seen a cat or husky with blue eyes, but have you ever seen a German Shepherd with blue eyes? Probably not. To learn more about German Shepherds with blue eyes, read on. This article covers everything you could possibly want to know about German Shepherds with blue eyes. The majority of both purebred German Shepherds and mixed German Shepherds have brown eyes because it is the dominant trait. In contrast, the blue eye color is a recessive trait. For a recessive gene to appear, both parents must have the same trait. Interestingly, the recessive trait that causes German Shepherds to have blue eyes is also found in humans, but it is simply more common in humans. Thus, the German Shepherd has a bluer appearance, and its eyes are blue instead of brown. Although it may sound weird that blue eyes are blue due to lack of pigmentation, the same is true of human blue eyes. Whereas humans with blue eyes can come in all sizes and races, German Shepherds with blue eyes tend to look the same, but they look different from the classic German Shepherd. German Shepherds that end up having blue eyes are called Blue German Shepherds. A Blue German Shepherd can come in three colorations, including blue and black, blue, and dark brown, and blue and tan. Often, the blue and black coloration makes the dog appear dark gray all over. It is considered very rare for German Shepherds to have blue eyes. Not only must the German Shepherd have the recessive gene, but it also must have blue eyes. Plus, most breeders prefer not to waste time breeding Blue German Shepherds for reasons we will discuss next. This recessive gene can be seen in other dogs, such as Dobermans. In Dobermans, the gene can cause the dog to have certain skin conditions. In German Shepherds, there is no negative health link between the recessive gene and the dog. That being said, many breeders avoid breeding Blue German Shepherds because kennel associations view them as a defect. What this means is that you cannot present your German Shepherd at dog shows because the blue coloration is a fault. Of course, you can always find a Blue German Shepherd if you want one specifically and have no intention of showing it. Final Thoughts If you have seen a German Shepherd with blue eyes, you have seen a real treat. German Shepherds can have blue eyes only if they have the recessive gene. Even though the gene is not associated with any health defects, kennel associations view the color as a defect and most breeders view it as a waste of time to breed these dogs. Despite the rarity of blue-eyed German Shepherds, they will bring you just as much fun, love, and companionship as a classic German Shepherd. Related Reads:. A German Shepherd can have blue eyes due to a genetic defect that causes one or both eyes to be a different color. Their piercingly blue eyes have little to no effect on their temperament, so you can expect the same characteristics as a typical German Shepherd. Watch This NOW! The genetic site that causes the blue color is the D dilute locus. The diluted pigment lightens coats from black to blue. It causes, in effect, a watered-down version of black. The two alleles connected with dilution are D dominant full color and d recessive dilute. It takes two recessive alleles dd to lighten black pigment to blue. In simple terms, both parents must carry and pass on the recessive D gene for a German Shepherd to have blue eyes. It is, therefore, impossible for a blue-colored dog to have any black on its coat. While these dogs are beautiful, the American Kennel Club classifies their eyes as an issue, docking points or refusing to let them rank in conformation. So although blue-eyed German Shepherds can enter events, they are seldom seen. This causes controversy among owners of blue GSDs, who often feel discriminated against. A German Shepherd with blue eyes is extremely rare because both parents must carry the recessive D locus gene, home to the dilution gene. When a dog is homozygous for dilute, a black dog will become blue. So it is highly uncommon to get two mutated copies of the gene that causes blue eyes. While many dog breeds can also lose pigmentation in their eyes to make them look blue, a German Shepherd can have truly blue eyes, albeit unique. German Shepherds with blue eyes can be purebred or mixed. This trait is much more common if mixed with a husky since these dogs can naturally have blue eyes. However, a purebred German Shepherd can have light brown, dark brown, golden, hazel, or blue eyes without another breed in the mix. Send a quick sample and find out if your pup is mixed or if his blue eyes are a purebred genetic rarity. All GSDs have striking features, but adding blue eyes makes them even more beautiful. Blue-eyed German Shepherds can also be quite confident and brave. When raised in the right household, these dogs will feel proud of themselves and their territory. Common Health Problems German Shepherds with blue eyes are prone to hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, and digestive issues as they age. All of these health concerns can be minimized or managements with the three following tips: Healthy food is crucial from birth through their senior years. German Shepherds need up to two hours of exercise daily. Attention and affection prevent the anxiety that can cause stress, seizures, and blood pressure problems. I also recommend you invest in a good orthopedic bed suitable for large breeds as they help prevent mobility issues and ease pain and discomfort caused by arthritis. Some owners might be concerned that blue eyes in a German Shepherd cause additional health concerns. But are blue eyes in the German Shepherd breed a health concern? These lovely dogs are just as healthy as the standard brown-eyed German Shepherds. Their health predictability is based on their genetics, diet, activity, and affection. So what causes the confusion? Some dogs, such as the Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, and Great Dane, carry the M-locus Merle gene that causes mottled white patches of fur, solid or piebald, on the face and body. Breeding two Merle gene carriers is, therefore expressly forbidden and deemed inhumane. However, this presents an opportunity to bring a gorgeous pup into your home. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. The few with blue eyes owe their eye color to a recessive gene that needs to be inherited from both parents. Blue-eyed German Shepherds can have two blue eyes, or they can be odd-eyed with one blue eye and one brown eye. Dogs with odd eyes are sometimes described as having heterochromia. A Blue German Shepherd is one with a color variation caused by a recessive gene. It dilutes black pigment so the fur will appear blue-gray or silver-gray rather than black. On the other hand, powder blue German Shepherds have lighter colors. Blue GSDs can be blue-and-black, blue-and-tan, or blue-and-sable dark brown. Strangely enough, Blue German Shepherds can appear in litters containing prototypical black-and-tan pups. While the blue color is a normal variation, both the AKC and many breeders consider it a defect of sorts. Well sometimes at least… The Dog Breed Info website includes a list of dog breeds that are known to have blue eyes on occasion. While all puppies are born with blue eyes, the breeds listed can actually retain their blue eyes as adults. A German Shepherd mix can inherit blue eyes from the GSD parent, or from the non-Shepherd parent if the breed has been known to have blue eyes. These dogs, which are also known as Siberian Shepherds or German Huskies, often inherit blue eyes from their Husky parents. Generally speaking, blue-eyed German Shepherds are as healthy as their brown-eyed relatives. There are, however, some unfortunate exceptions. While this sounds harmless and even attractive, dogs that inherit the merle gene from both parents often have birth defects. Mating two carriers of the merle gene is thus considered inhumane and strictly forbidden. However, a German Shepherd mix can have the merle gene. Such examples of breeds affected by the merle gene include the Australian Shepherd, the Collie, the Great Dane, and the Shetland Sheepdog. An albino dog will thus not only have pure white fur, but the skin around their nose and eyes will be a very pale pink. The eyes may have some pigment and be a very pale blue, or have no pigment and appear pinkish. The pink color is actually due to the blood flowing beneath the skin. Albino dogs of any breed are generally healthy, but they are very sensitive to light and are vulnerable to both sunburn and skin cancer. Are White German Shepherds Albino? In most cases, no. That gene has two alleles or versions: white and non-white. White is recessive, so a puppy would have to inherit the trait from both parents. One big difference between white German Shepherds and albinos is that the gene for albinism affects the skin and eyes as well as the coat. Those that do have blue eyes are the result of another recessive gene. Cataracts, for example, cause the lens of the eye to become cloudy and appear to be a hazy blue. Glaucoma can also make eyes appear cloudy blue. Yes, German Shepherd puppies are born with blue eyes! In fact, all puppies are born with blue eyes, no matter what breed their parents are. This is because the reason behind puppies having blue eyes has nothing to do with inherited genetics. Blue eyes are caused by a lack of melanin in the irises. It is natural for puppies to be born with this imbalance, as melanin is something that develops as they age. This is why puppies are born with blue eyes but will grow out of them by the week mark. But, the irises are never really blue. They are actually clear, but they appear to look blue. However, some dog breeds can retain blue eyes as they grow older. Full-blooded German Shepherds can have blue eyes, however, this is very rare. Blue eyes in German Shepherds are caused by a genetic mutation in the breed line, as the majority of German Shepherds will have brown eyes. However, this genetic mutation does not mean that your German Shepherd has something wrong with them. In some dog breeds, blue eyes can be a sign that something is wrong with your pet. But, German Shepherds are one of the few dog breeds where blue eyes are relatively common. So much so that a sub-breed is recognized for these German Shepherds with blue eyes. So yes, full-blooded German Shepherds can have blue eyes, and these dogs are just as healthy as any other kind of German Shepherd. How much is a German Shepherd with Blue Eyes? As German Shepherds with blue eyes, or blue Shepherds as they are otherwise known, are relatively rare, you can expect to pay more for them than a regular German Shepherd. This is because blue Shepherds are viewed as a premium dog breed. They are very rare, so when a breeder manages to breed this type of German Shepherd successfully, they will want premium prices for the puppies. Additionally, you should expect to pay higher prices for a German Shepherd that has a single blue eye, as this is also considered premium. Does a Blue eye mean a Dog is blind? No, a blue eye in your dog does not mean that your dog is blind, or that it is going to go blind at some point. Blindness is rarely the cause of this. You might also think that blue eyes are a sign that your dog is deaf. This is probably because blue eyes in cats have been linked with deafness. So, no blue eyes are not a sign that your dog is blind. In fact, there are no health concerns linked with blue eyes in dogs, it is simply a genetic mutation. They can occur thanks to a genetic variant in purebred dogs. This fact automatically makes them less valuable to breeders than dogs that can be shown in competitions. Because they are considered a fault, blue eyes are becoming rarer and rarer. Instead, most of them are neutered and sold as pet dogs. A breeder may continue to use a blue-eyed dog for breeding in rare cases, but only if they have exceptional features otherwise. The rarity is increased even more due to the recessive nature of this trait. Both parents have to be carriers of this gene for their puppies to have blue eyes. Brown eyes are dominant, which means that they will cover up the blue eyes trait. A dog may technically have blue eyes — but still, end up with brown due to a dominant brown-eyed gene. Instead, many of them focus on matching the breed standard — which means not using dogs with blue eyes in breeding programs. Breeders that breed show dogs will not have blue-eyed dogs available. However, you may be able to find them produced by breeders that concentrate on pet dogs. These people may even purposefully breed them because they are sometimes sought after by those looking for a pet. German Shepherds usually have brown eyes. This color is the most common and recognized by the breed standard. When many people breed German Shepherds, they aim to breed dogs with brown eyes. The brown-eyed gene is dominant. This means that the dog only needs to inherit one gene for its eyes to be brown. On the other hand, most other eye genes are recessive; the dog must receive two to develop the other eye color. The shade of brown can vary widely, though. Some dogs have dark brown eyes, while others are more of a tan. It largely depends on the amount of melanin a dog produces. More melanin equals a darker shade. There are multiple traits involved. Whether they are brown or blue is pretty easy to work out, but all the traits determining the shade can make determining their end eye color rather tricky. They may look like one of their parents — or they may not work at all. When they are first born, a puppy will not produce all the melanin that they will when they get older unless their eyes are a very light color — in which case they may never increase their melanin output. Therefore, most puppies will be born with light eyes, but they will darken as they get older. Usually, their eyes will reach their final color by the time they are about ten weeks old. This can vary widely from dog to dog, though. Some dogs may have their final color much earlier. Others may develop them much later. Some puppies may even be born with blue eyes — but these rarely stick around into adulthood. Typically, they will darken to brown within a few weeks. Instead, they happen to have blue eyes instead of the usual brown. This is a recessive trait, so your best chance of getting a puppy with blue eyes is to breed two blue-eyed adults. You may occasionally end up with a few blue-eyed puppies from breeding two brown-eyed dogs — assuming that they both have a recessive blue-eyed trait. Some German Shepherd mixed breeds also have blue eyes. Siberian Huskies are a typical example of this. Many Siberian Huskies have blue eyes. Therefore, if you breed them with a German Shepherd, your odds of getting a blue-eyed puppy are much higher. Of course, brown-eyed dogs are much more common. Finding two German Shepherds with blue-eyed traits is much more difficult than finding a Husky with blue eyes. At the moment, it is unknown. There have been few studies done on blue-eyed German Shepherds simply because there are so few of them. Most German Shepherds with blue-eyes are also mixed breeds. There are some health problems associated with blue eyes in other breeds, though. This is primarily because of the decrease in melanin that these dogs produce. For instance, German Dalmatians with blue eyes are more likely to have sensorineural deafness. However, this study also found that there was obvious inheritability even when eye color was controlled for. Therefore, other genes involved caused the deafness — not just the blue eye color itself. It may be that the blue-eyed gene itself has a large enough effect to cause deafness — or German Shepherds may not be affected at all due to their lack of this other deafness gene. Dalmatians also have an increased chance of being deaf if they have blue eyes. There have been other physical traits linked to increased deafness in Dalmatians in dogs, including the amount of spotting in their coat. This may suggest that German Shepherds will have an equal chance of being deaf if they have blue eyes. However, this is not known for sure. What About Merle German Shepherds? There are no merle German Shepherds. However, mixed-breed German Shepherds may have the merle gene — depending on the dog they are bred with. Sadly, the merle gene causes quite a few health problems. However, the science is pretty clear on this topic. Many proposed health problems may come along with a merle coat. However, only a few have scientific evidence supporting them. Dogs with the merle gene are nearly twice as likely to be deaf or blind than those without it. Multiple studies have drawn these conclusions. These health problems likely stem from the decrease in pigment the dog creates, leading to problems with their eyes and ears. Many breeders will not attempt to create merle German Shepherds for this reason. And these canines would not be purebred. It makes the dog worthless since they cannot be shown. Finding a blue-eyed German Shepherd is extremely difficult. For the most part, these dogs are rare. Most breeders produce dogs to be shown in the show ring. Instead, they are focused on producing pet-quality dogs. In this case, they may purposefully breed dogs with blue eyes, as many potential pet owners are willing to pay a high price for these German Shepherds. These breeders are few and far between. You may have to travel quite far to find one. And the waiting list may be substantial. If you want a dog now, you should probably settle on one with brown eyes. Due to their rarity, some people assume that this is a defect. However, it is caused by a recessive gene — it just happens to be a rare one. There may be some health problems associated with this gene. In other breeds, dogs with blue eyes are more likely to have certain health conditions. Plus, the current need for studies is relatively low, as these dogs are often not very common. If these dogs do have different health problems, the odds are likely not substantial. They might have a slightly higher chance of being deaf, for instance — but this chance will be meager. However, you may want to keep this in mind if you decide to adopt one. Conclusion Blue-eyed German Shepherds are very rare. The blue-eyed gene does exist in this breed. However, it is not nearly as common as the brown-eyed gene. Therefore, finding these dogs is difficult. Many breeders do not produce German Shepherds with blue eyes because they cannot be shown. They will avoid breeding these dogs where possible, though some blue-eyed dogs may pop up occasionally. These breeders usually market their dogs to pet owners. Stay on the lookout for more studies, which may be published as this dog becomes more popular. 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.

How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. E-mail Share by e-mail German Shepherds make great family dogs — they are loyal, intelligent, and have lots of energy! A good diet is key to giving your pet a long and healthy life, and the wrong diet can lead to a number of health problems. German Shepherds are big dogs with active lifestyles, so making sure they get the right nutrition at different stages throughout their lives is essential. Feeding your German Shepherd Puppy Puppies are growing rapidly and have very specific nutritional requirements. Puppy food tends to be high in calories and protein as they are bundles of energy at this age! Feeding your German Shepherd puppy a good quality balanced diet is essential to ensure that they grow up to be healthy adults. There are some foods designed specifically for large breeds such as German Shepherds, which provide extra support for their growing joints. You should look out for these foods in the pet store and ideally choose one of these large breed diets. You can find further general puppy feeding guidelines and advice via the AKC as well as specific German Shepherd facts and info. How often should I feed my German Shepherd puppy? Puppies need to be fed more frequently than adult dogs to support their rapidly growing bodies. German Shepherd puppies should be fed 4 meals a day until they are 3 months old, then reduce to 3 meals a day until they are 10 months old when their growth rate starts to slow down. Once they reach this age, they need 2 meals a day. When should I start feeding adult food? Puppies must stay on puppy food until they reach adult size. German Shepherds are large dogs and tend to reach adult size later than smaller dogs. They are usually fully matured at months. German Shepherds should stay on puppy food until they are months old, then they should move on to an adult diet. Feeding your adult German Shepherd An adult German Shepherd will weigh around lbs and need at least an hour of exercise every day, so their diet needs to reflect this. It might seem like your dog is eating a lot, but they need to replace the energy they burn off and eat enough of the right nutrients to sustain them! How often should I feed my German Shepherd? Adult dogs should be fed two meals a day. When should I switch from adult to senior food? As dogs get older their nutritional requirements change again. They are less active, and German Shepherds are more prone to joint problems such as osteoarthritis. You should consider switching to a senior diet at around 8 years of age. What type of food should German Shepherds eat? Whichever diet you pick, you should ensure it is suitable for large dogs or working breeds and that it has plenty of protein and calcium, and also includes some type of doggy superfoods, too. Commercially prepared foods are the best way to ensure your dog gets a balanced diet with all the nutrients they need to stay healthy, and they come in wet or dried forms. Some dogs prefer one or the other, whilst some enjoy a variety and mix of both. Dry Food Dried food is cheap, easy to feed and store, and has lots of benefits for your dogs. Dogs fed a dried food diet will drink more water, and you can soak the kibble to add a bit extra if you like. Wet Food Wet foods contain more water than dried, and often resemble meat which some dogs love. The food is usually in chunks with jelly or gravy, and some dogs prefer it to dried. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are large and active dogs with demanding nutritional requirements throughout their lives. They go through a rapid growth stage as puppies, and as adults need the right balance of nutrients to replenish the energy they burn off exercising. They need to eat a diet that has the right balance of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients, and ensure they get the right number of meals a day to maintain good physical and mental health. Puppies should eat meals a day until they are around 10 months old then they should eat 2 meals a day as adults. Do German shepherds require a lot of food? German Shepherds are large dogs so naturally, eat larger portions than smaller breeds. They are active dogs and need lots of protein and energy to keep them healthy. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Shares German Shepherds are graceful, obedient, and loyal dogs with specific nutritional needs. Following a German Shepherd puppy feeding chart will enable you to track the amount of food your puppy is eating as they grow. There are varieties of foods available in the market and most of them come with guidelines at the back of the packaging showing you how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy. This article will cover different types of diets available and the specific nutritional needs of your German shepherd. It will also help you know what to do to ensure that your GSD gets nutritious and balanced food for every stage of their life. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart There are three aspects of this German Shepherd puppy feeding chart, namely the German shepherd feeding amount, feeding frequency, and mealtime lengths. It is important to find out the appropriate feeding amount, frequency, and length for your German shepherd without leaving out one of them. That way, you can accurately find out the best way to feed your dog. Overall, there are four ranges that you need to keep in mind. An active dog may require a bit more than the numbers in this list, and an inactive dog will need a slightly less amount. But this guide can act as a solid benchmark. A puppy will need to eat more because they are growing very quickly. Talk to your vet about how much exactly so you keep them healthy and happy. Make sure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water all day. When you take your dog for a walk make sure to bring along some extra water in a collapsible bowl. If they get tired on the way or it gets very hot, this can save their life. So for example, if your dog is 60lbs they should eat between lbs of food in one day. If you notice your dog is losing weight, add more calories to its meal size. However, there are other considerations on how much to feed a German shepherd puppy per day. You might want to consider avoiding meals right before bedtime. Let them digest their food first before they go to sleep. Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs All dogs require nutritious, satisfying, and healthy food and every breed have their special diet. For maximum energy and health, there are factors to consider when deciding what to feed your German Shepherd: Size considerations- the AKC breed standard says that a German Shepherd can go to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Females can be around 49 to 71 pounds while Males can be around 66 to 88 pounds. This means that they have a big appetite hence it is good to find quality food for them. They grow pretty fast hence they need specific nutrients for specific stages. Activity level- German shepherds are muscular, active, and agile which contributes to higher caloric needs to be complemented by feeding them a high-quality diet. Health consideration- GSDs are prone to many diseases hence a healthy diet will prevent problems. For example, arthritis that is caused by hip and elbow dysplasia can be mitigated through an excellent diet. Ensure that your GSD diet contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. How long does it take for your dog to be full? Is your dog still hungry after eating his portion? German shepherds normally take anywhere from 10 minutes to 15 minutes to finish the meal, given that you followed the proper feeding guidelines properly. If your dog shows signs of slow eating, we recommend sending them to your vet. If you think your dog is already full before finishing his portion, there is no problem. However, if your dog is still hungry after finishing the meal, consider sending him to your vet. This is because this can be a sign of a serious health issue involving their digestive system. They encourage the puppy to chew hence preventing periodontal diseases or tartar. Kibble is less expensive to buy and can stay fresh for longer. See also German Shepherd Gestation Period And Pregnancy Wet food is also essential for puppies because they allow puppies to feel fuller with less food. If your GSD need to shed a few pounds, wet food is a good way to reduce their caloric intake. Wet food is easier to digest, hence they are good for German shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet food is appetizing and keeps the puppy hydrated. You need to understand why your puppy cannot eat because it will help you determine the way to deal with the issue. There is no need to worry if the puppy lost appetite shortly and goes back to normal eating without any sign of illness. If the puppy loses appetite and takes a few days without improvement, take your puppy to the vet to find the problem because your dog might be sick. If the vet finds that the puppy is sick, they may suggest a special diet that will boost their immunity and give them extra nutrients to better their recovery. The puppy may have stopped eating because of behavioral issues; therefore, you may need to feed them same time to get a routine. Treats and human food that is given to the puppy may need to be reduced and also you can try different kinds of food. The German shepherd is a medium dog breed according to the AKC. Therefore, free-feeding is not a good idea. For the German shepherds, feeding schedules work better. If the puppies are free-fed the puppy may eat the leftover at any time even when they are not hungry. Sticking to a feeding routine help the puppy to stay healthy and prevent obesity. When you have a schedule, managing their weight and house training will improve. The puppy usually relieves themselves around 15 minutes after eating or drinking, therefore, when they feed at the same time every day and are taken outside after a while, accidents will be minimized. A raw diet is good for German shepherds. A raw diet help improves vitality and energy. The puppy gets healthy white teeth with an increased lifespan and reduced shedding as well as a stronger immune system. Raw meat is a great source of protein and an optimal diet. It is like keto to humans because it allows the puppy to reach their total capacity and good health. Dogs are naturally carnivorous, hence raw diet aligns with their natural needs. However, you should speak to your vet before putting your puppy on a raw food diet. The majority of commercially available kibble food is balanced and complete, and of high quality for your German shepherd puppy. Human supplements often contain harmful substances to animals and are unregulated or minimally effective. Therefore, never give human supplements to your German shepherd puppy. But they can eat small amounts of cooked chicken or turkey, plain cooked sweet potatoes or carrots, plain yogurt, and small amounts of fruits like apples or bananas without getting sick. Talk to a vet for advice on how to feed your German Shepherd puppy a healthy and balanced diet. These include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chives, avocado, onions, nuts, grapes and raisins, garlic, raw or undercooked meat, and bones. These foods can cause a wide range of health problems, from stomachaches to more serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney failure. Some foods that people eat may have a lot of sodium or sugar, which can also be bad for dogs. How much food to give an older German Shepherd will depend on their needs and how much they move around. But as dogs get older, they tend to slow down and may need less food to stay at a healthy weight. As a general rule, an older German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of food per day, which should be divided between two meals. A German Shepherd that is getting older should eat high-quality senior dog food that is made for their age and size. Senior dogs might also benefit from getting smaller meals more often. If your German Shepherd puppy seems to always be hungry, you should look at what they eat and how often they eat. Make sure they eat enough for their age, weight, and level of activity. Puppies grow quickly and need more calories than adult dogs, so it is possible that they are not getting enough food. Also, make sure you feed them high-quality puppy food that is right for their age and size. If you are worried about how hungry they are or how much they weigh, you should talk to a vet to rule out any health problems and make a plan for feeding them. The amount of dry food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Adult dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Active dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Senior dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. If the dog is obviously overweight or underweight, adjust accordingly. If you can feel most of the ribs without squeezing your fingers in between them — try 1 cup per day. This is a decent starting point for a growing large breed puppy that needs the extra calories to grow big and strong. If you can feel most of the ribs AND see its waist — try 3 cups per day. This is perfect for an adult German Shepherd which needs extra calories due to being very active. With this amount, it will be able to maintain its weight, but not gain any extra fat. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 3. This is a good amount for a very active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain a healthy weight. This should be sufficient for an adult German Shepherd which is quite active. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 5 cups per day. This is a good amount for an extremely active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain lean muscle mass. For example, when my dog was a puppy, he would feel all ribs and see his waist when eating 2 cups of food per day. However, as he got older and larger, I had to increase the amount — even though I could still feel most of the ribs! He maintained around .Although there are lots of opinions on how much food your shepherds needs, these guidelines work for me and my German Shepherds. Everyone is different though, so you will have to adjust accordingly if necessary — this guide should help you until you find the ideal amount. If your dog is a very active one it may need more food depending on its activity level. Always be sure to give plenty of water since dry kibble can dehydrate the animal over time. However, this amount will vary depending on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Puppies and young dogs, for example, generally need more water than adult German Shepherds. And working dogs or those who exercise frequently may require even more. This is because they can easily hydrate themselves if given free access to water. However, you still need to remember some things. For example, take note that your dog will need to drink 6 ounces of water per day for every 3. Depending on the temperature and activeness, this amount can increase. Lastly, make sure you take extra care in providing water access to your German shepherd. The most preferable way is to fill a bowl with a moderate amount of water, not too much. The feeding amount, frequency, length, and water requirements can always be changed. If you have no time to visit your vet, the following topic may help you. How Much Should A 1-year-old German Shepherd Eat A 1-year-old German Shepherd should eat about two and a half to three cups of food each day, broken up into two or three meals. Pointers for Feeding German Shepherds Improper feeding practices can lead to serious health problems for German shepherds. An owner is responsible for taking into consideration the age and weight of a German shepherd before feeding them. When feeding a german shepherd puppy that is four to six months old, you must give them two meals a day that comprises around eight ounces and five ounces. When feeding a German shepherd puppy that is between seven and twelve months old, the meal amounts should be increased to ten ounces for each meal. This amount should be split into three smaller meals. This is regardless of whether they are active or not. Yep, German shepherds can gain weight regardless of whether they exercise or not. If you think your dog is gaining too much weight, you can split their daily calories into four or five smaller meals. Some people prefer using dry dog food, while others would choose canned dog food. Whatever you choose for your German shepherd is usually okay, but canned food tends to contain more moisture than dry food which may lead to bladder stones in certain dogs. However, when it comes to the amount of dog food you feed your German shepherd, canned food leads to more obesity than dry food. If your German shepherds are over five years old, you must give them an extra meal. This additional meal should comprise around four ounces of food so they can easily digest it during their older age. When feeding a German shepherd puppy, you must know how to correctly measure their food amount. Be accurate when following the proper measurements; otherwise, it could lead to your dog gaining too much weight. Use measuring cups that are specifically made for dry food. If you use any other type of measuring device, it might lead to your dog eating too much or too little food. You must not feed your German shepherd until they are full, but allow them to eat until they are slightly satiated. Do not serve unlimited food; give them about two to three cups of food per day. If you are unsure whether or not your German shepherd is obese, check its waistline. If they have a thick waist and their stomach looks like a sphere, then that is a clear sign that your German shepherd is obese. Never let them finish their meal if they are still hungry; otherwise, you will encourage them to gorge on their food. Your German shepherd must always have access to fresh clean water, so you should ensure they can drink it whenever necessary. Feeding Guidelines by Age Before proceeding with the following points, remember that age is not the only determining factor in a German shepherd feeding chart. Make sure to consider all the content in this blog post as well. It is recommended that you slowly let them adapt first. This can be their regular food from now on. This includes fruits, bones, and more. You should also avoid giving them your leftovers. However, they will need time to adapt. You should also consider feeding your German shepherd foods that can be gnawed and chewed. This is so they can develop their jaws, teeth, and gums. This will result in less feeding amount and frequency. Feeding Guidelines by Weight German shepherds can be of different weight ranges. An average weighted German shepherd 35 kilograms will then need calories per day. This only applies to German shepherds that do not exercise or are inactive. Active German Shepherds: In the case of active German shepherds that exercise regularly, every 1 kilogram equals 55 calories per day. So an average weighted German shepherd will require calories per day to be able to function properly. Take note, however, that this calculation may be affected if the German shepherd has a health disorder concerned with metabolism or digestion. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Guidelines Our last topic involves the difference between a puppy and an adult. The following are some of the facts that recent studies have proven: Puppies have higher energy levels than adults. This means they need to eat more than adult German shepherds. German shepherds will need higher protein and fat content at an early age. The amount of fat and protein will decrease as they grow older. Puppies cannot tolerate too many nutrients. Ingesting extra minerals and vitamins may lead to serious health disorders. Meanwhile, adults are only risking being overweight when taking in more than intended. German Shepherds usually have a good appetite and can eat a lot, especially when they are young and growing. But their food intake should be balanced and right for their age, weight, and level of activity to keep them from getting too much food and getting fat. As they age, they should usually eat less quickly. Most of the time, bones that have been cooked and ground up completely may be safe to eat. Instead, give them dog-made chew toys or treats. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Since German Shepherds consume meat, it follows that they must consume a significant amount of animal protein in order to get all of the necessary nutrients. Although while it is feasible to offer a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, owners of German Shepherds should avoid doing so since it increases the likelihood that their dogs will not get all of the nutrients that they need. After talking about the feeding amount, frequency, and lengths of a German shepherd, you can now easily plan how much, how many times, and how long you feed your dog. You even learned how to hydrate your German shepherd the proper way. Lastly, we talked about the difference between a puppy and an adult in terms of feeding. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Since puppies have a lot of growing to do, they require plenty of calories. You can reduce the amount of food per pound of body weight until they reach standard adult measurements. The specific amount of food to feed a German Shepherd can vary because different dogs are sized differently and have various needs and levels of athleticism. To learn more about specific foods and ingredients, check out this article on the best diet for German Shepherds. Three to four meals of puppy food a day is ideal for a month-old German Shepherd, as the food will be easily digestible and keep the energy high throughout the day. Feeding a puppy 1—2 large meals might make them feel sick, or they may be unable to finish it all at once. When it comes to how much food to give a 1—4 month-old German Shepherd, the recommended amount is approximately one cup g or a little more, depending on activity levels per meal. Be sure to spread meals evenly throughout the day, and avoid feeding your puppy before bedtime. The West Greenwich Animal Hospital recommends not feeding a dog three hours before bedtime because they may need to go out for a toilet break at night. Since their stomachs and bodies are getting bigger, they can generally handle fewer large meals than more small ones. So, you can reduce the number of puppy food meals to 2 or 3. Since the number of meals is reduced, increase the amount of food per serving to approximately 1. The meals should be spread evenly throughout the day to ensure your German Shepherd has consistent energy levels. My German Shepherd Willow at 4 months old 10 to 12 Months At 10—12 months, a German Shepherd begins to mature as its body continues growing. Split approximately 4—5 cups —1, g of food between two meals. However, this is just a recommendation — as mentioned previously, your dog may require more or less than this depending on their activity levels. Keeping the amount of food at cups , g per day may be sufficient, or it may be best to start feeding your dog more or less than this. For example, many active or working German Shepherds may benefit from 6 cups 1. Again, the specific amount is circumstantial. However, some dog owners make the switch earlier. Honestly, this is the issue with every new pet parent. Below is a German Shepherd feeding chart to help you learn more about giving your pooch the right amount of food at the right time. Remember, the below are simply recommendations, so specific amounts can vary by dog and activity level. Age Amount of food per day Amount of servings per day months 3—4 cups — g spread across multiple servings 3—4 3—4. Always check the packaging of the food you buy for a more detailed analysis. There are endless dog food options, so making the right choice can be challenging and stressful. The main protein source is chicken, and it promotes immune system health and digestive performance. Suitable for puppies up to 15 months, this dog food is the perfect solution for young German Shepherds with lots of growing to do! One of the main benefits of this food is that it comes in different sizes, including a pound 6. This dog food contains all the nutrients a German Shepherd puppy needs to grow and thrive. Blue Buffalo dog food has real chicken, fruits, and vegetables, so your pooch will surely enjoy the delicious taste! It comes in two flavors — a chicken meal with oats and a lamb meal with brown rice. Either contains enough high-quality protein to ensure your pup can grow as healthily as possible. Medium-sized dog breeds can continue eating puppy food until 18 months. Like with puppy food, there are many adult German Shepherd dog food options, so choosing the right one can be challenging. Check out some of my below recommendations to make your search a little easier. Best Breed Dr. Best Breed Dog Food aids digestion as it contains a blend of soluble and insoluble fiber. According to a study, musculoskeletal disorders and the inability to stand are the two most common causes of death in German Shepherds. Since puppies need specific nutrients to grow, their food differs greatly from adult dog food. Puppies especially need protein because it aids with the growth and development of cells. Without adequate protein in the diet , puppies are more susceptible to serious health issues, including: Weight and muscle loss General weakness Chest and abdomen issues German Shepherds can continue eating puppy food for the first year of life and beyond. Usually, 16—18 months is a good time for a dog to start eating adult food. The most important thing to remember is that adult food is never the right choice for a German Shepherd puppy that still has much growing to do. However, there are many other factors to consider when it comes to feeding a German Shepherd, like their general weight and activity levels. Weight and Size The weight of your German Shepherd will determine how much to feed it. The general rule of thumb is that the heavier your dog is, the more food it needs to stay fueled. The average adult German Shepherd is around .Pay attention to the general height and size of your German Shepherd to determine exactly how much food to feed them. For example, an underweight German Shepherd will need extra food to get back to a healthy weight, whereas an overweight one will need less food. As you can imagine, a highly energetic dog will need more food than a German Shepherd that lies around all day. If your German Shepherd is still relatively young, i. Health Health issues can affect the way a dog eats. For example, a dog with stomach issues might avoid food altogether. Other health conditions that affect how much a dog can eat include: Pancreatitis Infections Cancer Consider whether your dog is experiencing health issues when feeding them. For instance, if your dog is shedding too much, you need to change a diet that minimizes shedding. Age The age of a German Shepherd helps determine how much food should be eaten and how often. For example as mentioned earlier , younger dogs must eat smaller meals spread evenly throughout the day, while older dogs can have 2 larger meals. A vet can weigh your German Shepherd, ask questions, and listen to the heartbeat to determine a healthy diet plan. As Willow is now a senior dog, I like to take her for vet checkups every 6 months. In many cases, giving puppies homemade food over long periods can cause health issues down the line. A study by the National Library of Medicine concluded that a homemade diet given by the owner caused a puppy to experience various health issues, including vitamin D deficiency and NSH nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism. You can give a small treat here and there, but human food should never make up the entire diet of a puppy. Below are some tasty examples! Eggs Not only are eggs beneficial for humans, but they can also be good for dogs if given in moderation. German Shepherds puppies and adults will receive plenty of nutrients from eggs, including protein and fats. The best and easiest way to give a German Shepherd an egg is to hard boil it. Avoid feeding a German Shepherd or any dog fried eggs too often due to the excessive oil. Hard-boiled eggs are usually the easiest for dogs to eat, but you can also try poached or scrambled eggs. Examples of dog-friendly fruits include: Bananas. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.

Of course, the only one who can tell you that for sure whether a mysterious bump is a cause for worry will be your vet, so be sure to schedule the next appointment available so your furry friend can get checked out. They spend a lot of quality time with their pet and possibly even their personal space. Finding the lump is the first step. The second will be to not panic, not all bumps on a dog mean that they have cancer. There are times when our memories and eyes can deceive us into thinking that the bump is getting larger or smaller, and having a measurement will make it easier to know what changes have—or have not—been happening. They are benign tumors that are just a mass of fat cells under normal skin. These are usually soft, round, and movable. They are commonly found around the ribs—though they can show up in other places on the body as well—on middle-aged to senior dogs who lean toward being overweight. Lipomas are often not something that you need to worry about on your dog. If it grows quickly, or to a point your dog starts to have to work around it, it can be removed. A sebaceous cyst is a blocked oil gland on your dog. Do not try to pop a cyst on your dog. More often than not a sebaceous cyst will go away on its own either by shrinking away or popping in its own time and releasing a white, pasty substance. But do not try to pop it on your own. This can be caused by anything from an infection to an insect bite. Abscesses can develop quickly and become painful to your dog if not cared for quickly. While they do require a trip to the vet, they are not typically something that should cause great worry. Most often, they are taken care of and forgotten about once the antibiotics have run their course. It can be painful when touched for your dog and comes from a direct trauma to that part of their body. They can be caused by many different factors, anything from viral infections, vaccination locations, and even just aging. For most younger dogs, their body is developing their immune system and it will be able to heal the wart by itself. However, for older dogs, they may need to be removed by your vet. Typically, they will go away on their own after the allergen is removed. They are a buildup of excess immune cells that press into the skin. Normally button tumors are able to go away on their own, but if your pup starts to get irritated by it or bite and scratch it, it may be better to discuss a surgical removal with your vet. They can have many different looks depending on where, how, and when they develop on your dog. They usually feel solid and firm to the touch and can be irregularly shaped, rather than the expected rounded bump. Because mast cell tumors are a skin cancer, they need professional treatment. Your vet will likely recommend a surgical removal of the affected tissue as well as a small border layer around it to make sure that all of the cancerous cells are removed. When caught early, this process is very effective and your pup will be back on the move in no time. Enlarged lymph nodes can mean anything from your dog fighting a small infection to canine lymphoma developing in that area. In either case, noticing that there is a lymph node that is swelling, getting them to the vet as soon as possible to have tests run will greatly improve their chances for easy treatment. This is when your vet will take a small, unintrusive needle and stick the bump to get a sample of cells. A majority of lumps on dogs are diagnosed with an FNA. In these instances, the fluid itself is extracted and sent to a lab for closer inspection on a molecular level to determine what that fluid is. For some cases, the plan will just be to keep an eye on the size and note if it starts getting smaller or larger; if the latter occurs then typically a secondary visit to the vet is necessary. For more serious cases they may recommend antibiotics or surgical removal. Many vet clinics also list an associate email address, and pet owners are encouraged to use this email address to ask questions and send in photos of their pet's issue. If a lump is something to be concerned about, the clinic will then let you know to schedule a physical appointment. Dogs can get lumps, bumps, and cysts from normal aging, or they can be signs of a problem. There are two major types of lumps and bumps on dogs: malignant cancerous and benign not cancerous. A veterinarian can take a sample of cells to give you a diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Types of Lumps and Bumps on Dogs Here are several common skin growths found in dogs, along with info on what they look like and what to watch for: Benign Tumors Tumors that are benign are not invasive or likely to spread to other body areas. Histiocytoma A histiocytoma is a benign skin growth that usually occurs in dogs less than 2 years of age. Rarely, they can be seen in older dogs or on other areas of the body. Histiocytomas are pink and fleshy but may get bigger and seem more irritated before improving. They can be diagnosed through microscopic examination of a sample of cells from the growth. Lipomas come from fat cells under the skin or are found in muscle tissue. They usually develop in older, overweight dogs. They may become quite large or appear in multiple locations. A vet can diagnose a lipoma by taking a small sample of cells from the growth to look for fat droplets. No treatment is needed, but these should be monitored for rapid changes. When lipomas start to bother your pet, you can consider surgical removal. Papilloma A papilloma in young dogs is a contagious, wart-like growth that usually occurs in and around the mouth. In older dogs, they might be seen around the eyes or on other areas of the body. Papillomas are caused by a virus that can be spread through direct contact with an infected dog or contaminated items, such as toys or feeding bowls. They appear small, fleshy, and round with a cauliflower-like texture to the surface. Severe cases may make eating or swallowing difficult and require treatment by surgical removal. Medications and other treatment methods are also available, including crushing of the warts to stimulate the immune system. Another type of papilloma is a skin wart that is more common in older dogs. These are usually solitary and not caused by a virus. These bumps may have a hardened surface that looks like a cauliflower. An inverted papilloma may also be seen in young adult dogs, especially on the lower abdomen. If the growth bothers the pet, surgical removal is an option. They are overgrowths of the connective tissue in the skin. They are the same color as the skin but extend out from the surface on thin stalks. Skin tags are common in older dogs and certain breeds. No treatment is needed, but these can be surgically removed if they are bothersome. Sebaceous Gland Tumor A sebaceous gland tumor is commonly found in older dogs. They are typically smaller than a pea and may develop in any location. Some will bleed or secrete a material that forms a crust. Large breeds often form these on their head, specifically their eyelids, and they may be black in color. Treatment is not necessary, but surgical removal may be considered when the growth is bothersome. Meibomian A meibomian gland tumor is a slow-growing benign lump that forms in the meibomian gland at the edge of the eyelid. The tumor can stick out or grow into the eyelid. They may become inflamed, irritated, painful, or ulcerated. They may also cause inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva. Large tumors may cause problems when your dog blinks, because they cause extra tearing and tear staining. They are diagnosed by their appearance and location, and they can be removed with surgery, or the tissue can be frozen for removal. They rarely grow back after removal, but regrowth is possible. Epulis An epulis is a common benign growth found in the mouth of dogs. They may form when a tooth rubs against the gums, as with an underbite in brachycephalic flat-faced breeds. These smooth, fleshy, pink bumps grow on the gum tissue near the outer surface of an incisor, canine, or premolar tooth. They can appear to grow on a stalk of tissue, like a mushroom, or as an unmoving mass, and they may have a bony interior. Certain types can invade surrounding bony tissue. Diagnosis of an epulis is made by recognizing it from appearance and confirming with a biopsy. These growths should be removed surgically, along with the adjacent tooth and any bony tissue that may be affected. They do not usually regrow if the entire tumor is removed. Radiation therapy may help cases where the growth is inoperable. Follicular Cysts Follicular cysts are large, benign bumps on the skin that grow up from the hair follicle. They may release a thick material that is white, yellow, or brown when you push on them. As they get bigger, they can become itchy or painful. These types of cysts are diagnosed on physical examination and may be confirmed with microscopic examination of a small sample of cells aspirated with a needle. Follicular cysts may become infected and require antibiotic treatment. If they are growing or become painful, they may be surgically removed and should not regrow. Perianal Adenomas Perianal adenomas are benign growths common in older, unneutered male dogs. They grow from oil glands near the anus but can also occur in similar glands along the abdomen, on the back, and near the tail. These commonly show up as multiple small lumps. Larger tumors may develop bleeding ulcerations and can compress the anal canal, making it difficult for your dog to poop. Almost all male dogs are cured by castration alone, but large or ulcerated tumors may also be surgically removed. Females improve with surgical removal, but the growths often recur. Laser surgery or freezing the growth may be necessary to avoid fecal incontinence when surgery involves the anal sphincter. Hemangiomas Hemangiomas are benign tumors that occur in adult dogs and closely resemble blood vessels. They may be single growths or multiple, compressible, reddish-black circular lumps that can resemble a blood blister. Some may become large and even ulcerate. The recommended treatment is surgical removal. Nevus A nevus is a dark raised or flat benign growth on the skin, commonly called a mole. These are found on areas prone to trauma, such as the legs, head, and neck, usually in older dogs. Treatment is surgical removal. Trichoepitheliomas Trichoepitheliomas are small, benign lumps that pop up from the hair follicles of adult dogs. They are cyst-like and filled with condensed, yellow, cheesy, granular material. They can occur anywhere on the body, but especially on the face and trunk. Treatment is surgical removal, but they are likely to continue to form at other locations, even after surgery. Cornifying epitheliomas Cornifying epitheliomas are benign growths that stick up from the skin surface and look like horns. No treatment is necessary unless there is evidence of self-trauma, ulceration, or secondary infection. Surgical removal is the ideal treatment. Basal Cell Tumors Basal cell tumors are benign growths that develop on the head, ears, neck, and forelimbs of older dogs. They are raised swellings that are typically firm, solitary, dome-shaped, and small. Some may be hairless, ulcerated, and stick out like stalks from the surface of the skin. They are dark in color and may form cysts that break open and drain fluid or pus. Treatment is surgical removal, especially when the dog is uncomfortable. Malignant Tumors Malignant tumors are cancerous growths that can invade tissue and spread to organs. Angiosarcomas Angiosarcomas are highly malignant blood vessel tumors that may vary in appearance. One or more red lumps in the skin or underlying soft tissue are commonly seen, but they may also appear as a poorly defined bruise. All types grow rapidly and destroy surrounding tissue. They also spread to the lungs and liver. Angiosarcomas may occur in response to sun exposure in dog breeds with short, white coats, but dogs with dark, thick coats can develop them as well. They usually form on the underside of the trunk, hip, thigh, and lower legs. A biopsy is required for a diagnosis. Freezing and laser surgery can help control smaller surface tumors. Chemotherapy may also be recommended to treat any remaining tumor cells. Basal Cell Carcinomas Basal cell carcinomas are flattened or raised growths that appear anywhere on the body of an older dog. They may spread to surrounding skin, forming new ulcerations, but they rarely spread to other organs. Surgical removal is recommended, including enough skin around the tumor to ensure that no tumor cells remain. Liposarcomas Liposarcomas are rare but may develop in older male dogs on the chest and legs. They can be soft or firm lumps that are slow to spread to other locations. Treatment is surgical removal, but recurrence is common. If this happens, radiation treatment may also be required. It can look like flaky skin, red patches, raised and ulcerated areas, or lumps deep within the skin. There are two forms of skin lymphosarcoma that differ in their expected progression and response to treatment, so it is important to determine which type your dog has early on. Treatments include surgical removal, chemotherapy, and radiation, done separately or combined. Mast Cell Tumors Mast cell tumors are the most common malignant tumor seen in dogs. They often affect older dogs but can occur in dogs of any age. They develop solitary growths anywhere on the body, especially the limbs, lower abdomen, and chest. Larger or rapidly growing tumors and those in certain locations are more likely to spread. Their appearance can greatly vary, but most are raised and either soft or firm to the touch. Your vet will need to examine a sample of cells from the growth under a microscope to confirm a diagnosis. There is variation on how aggressive these tumors are. Surgical removal is necessary. If the tumor regrows or spreads, other treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation, may be used. Malignant Melanomas Malignant melanomas are another type of skin tumor of older dogs. They commonly develop on the lips, mouth, and nail beds of male dogs. They appear as raised, ulcerated lumps and may be dark, light gray, or pink. If they appear in the nail bed, the toe is often swollen. These tumors grow quickly and may spread quickly to other organs. Complete surgical removal is the preferred treatment, but it may be difficult and involves removal of adjacent tissue to prevent recurrence. Chemotherapy and radiation are not effective treatment options. Fibrosarcomas Fibrosarcomas are common, fast-growing malignant tumors in dogs. Most are on the trunk and legs and vary in appearance and size. They can invade underlying muscles, but most do not spread to other areas of the body. Treatment consists of surgical removal, though complete removal may not be possible, and regrowth is common. Fibrosarcomas may also be treated with radiation and chemotherapy. Squamous Cell Carcinomas Squamous cell carcinomas can be found in two places on a dog: on the surface of the skin or under a nail. Most appear as firm, raised, irregular, and ulcerated areas. Many are solitary, but areas of prolonged sun exposure may produce multiple tumors. These growths invade surrounding tissues. Some are slow to spread, while others grow more rapidly. Treatment involves complete surgical removal of the tumor along with some normal tissue. How Vets Diagnose Lumps, Bumps, and Cysts on Dogs A sample of cells may need to be taken and evaluated under a microscope for a diagnosis. This can come from taking an impression of the surface of the growth, using a syringe and small needle to withdraw a small sample of cells in the exam room fine needle aspiration , or surgically removing a small tissue sample biopsy while your dog is under local or general anesthesia. Most veterinarians evaluate impression smears or fine needle aspirates by staining the slide and examining it under a microscope in the veterinary office. Trained veterinary pathologists are available to analyze these same samples or small tissue samples to determine a diagnosis. Then your vet can determine the appropriate treatment recommendations and explain the expected outcome. Take pictures and note any changes from day to day in any of these factors. Make an appointment with your vet as soon as possible and bring your log and photos along with any questions you may have. FAQs What does a sebaceous cyst on a dog look like? A sebaceous cyst is a smooth, raised swelling that contains sebum from the oil glands associated with hair follicles. They can become infected and inflamed and may rupture, secreting a thin, yellowish discharge. What can you do for a dog with a sebaceous cyst? A sebaceous cyst should be observed for changes in size or material within the cyst. The cyst may break open from being scratched and release a fluid-like material. This should be gently cleaned with warm water and then allowed to dry. Any sign of infection or sensitivity in the area should be evaluated by a veterinarian for treatment recommendations and possibly surgical removal. How do I get rid of bumps on my dog? Then they will determine an appropriate plan for surgical removal using local or general anesthesia. Can a bug bite cause a bump on a dog? Yes, a bug bite may cause a temporary swelling on a dog. These may be itchy as well. Growths are usually more defined and rarely regress but remain the same or grow larger over time. Is a belly lump normal after a dog spay? A belly lump may indicate a reaction to a buried suture, or rarely, a hernia of the abdominal wall. Contact your vet if your dog has a lump in their belly after being spayed. This would depend on the type of lump that it is. Many benign growths do not need to be removed. However, if the growth changes in appearance, bothers the dog, or interferes with movement, then a veterinary exam is needed to determine the appropriate treatment. For malignant growths, your vet can determine the appropriate treatment. Featured Image: iStock. She completed an internship in small.Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? August 30, in Uncategorized For most owners, a new lump on your dog can be a source of panic and worry. Most people associate lumps on dogs with one of the most common causes of lumps in people: cancer. But it's important to keep in mind that many different types of lumps can develop on dogs for all kinds of reasons, including some which are hereditary, and many which pose no serious health risk to your dog. Even so, lumps shouldn't be ignored. Whether your dog has developed a new lump suddenly, or you have noticed several lumps that have developed across your dog's body, it's always better to be safe than sorry and to have the areas inspected and prescribed the appropriate treatment. Here's an overview of the different types of lumps you might find on your dog, and how to make sure these lumps are appropriately addressed. Common Types of Lumps on Dogs Many different types of lumps may appear on your dog's body, including some that are fairly rare. But most bumps on dogs fall into one of several broad categories: Lipomas - These are among the most common types of lumps on dogs, and are fortunately a growth that owners don't need to worry about. These lumps are fatty benign tumors that may vary in size and can appear across a dog's body, becoming more frequent as they age. However, unless the lump is affecting the dog's mobility or quality of life, there's no health concern or reason to remove the lump. They are typically soft and easily moveable, but it's best to not diagnose at home as they can sometimes resemble the more dangerous cancers. Cysts - A cyst develops when one of your dog's oil glands becomes blocked. These are similar to a zit on a human, although these cysts can grow much larger. Generally, they aren't anything you need to worry about or seek treatment for, and they should go away on their own. Don't pop a cyst, though—this can increase the risk of your dog acquiring an infection through the open wound. Hematomas - A hematoma is essentially a raised bruise that develops as the result of trauma to your dog's flesh. The hematoma itself may be hard, swollen, and tender to the touch, but it doesn't represent a health concern for your dog. The injury underneath the hematoma, though, may need to be evaluated by a doctor to make sure there are no broken bones or serious health concerns. Abscesses - An abscess is caused by an infection, and it should be treated promptly by a vet. These infections will be hot to the touch and painful for your dog, but they don't pose a significant health risk as long as they are treated before the infection spreads to other parts of your dog's body. For this reason, visit a vet or vet hospital promptly to start treatment as quickly as possible. Cancerous Tumors - A cancerous tumor will usually be harder than a lipoma, and won't be hot or sensitive to the touch. The tumor may also be benign, in which case your dog's health won't be jeopardized by this tumor. However, a biopsy should be done to evaluate the tumor and determine whether treatment is necessary. When Do Lumps on Dogs Develop? Lumps may develop on your dog at any age. But an older dog is more likely to develop lumps because of the risk factors they may face for cancer or skin issues. In addition, lipomas and other types of harmless lumps are more often associated with their appearance in aging dogs, although young dogs are liable to develop these growths as well. Other lumps, such as hematomas, warts and cancer cells, are more strongly correlated with other health issues that may develop at any stage in a dog's life. Pet owners should also keep in mind that, with certain types of lumps like lipomas, the presence of one or two lumps may increase the likelihood of more lumps developing down the road. Some types of cancer lumps on dogs will develop on the surface of your dog's skin, which can help owners identify cancer before it reaches advanced stages. Certain breeds, such as boxers and Boston terriers, are especially prone to tumors that grow externally. One of the best ways to identify a potentially cancerous lump is to evaluate how that tumor feels when touched. Compared to the soft, fatty characteristics of a lipoma, a cancerous lump will be harder and firm to the touch, appearing as a hard immovable lump on your dog. A lump on a dog's neck or face may also prompt foul-smelling discharge from the mouth, nose or eyes, and this smell can be another indicator that the tumor is cancerous. Ultimately, it's difficult to know whether a tumor is cancerous just by looking at it. Even your veterinarian will likely need to conduct a biopsy to determine whether the tumor is benign or malignant. Typically, hard, immovable lumps that suddenly appear tend to be more worrisome than soft, moveable or slow-growing lumps, but that's not always the case for every type of cancer or abscess. Because lumps on dogs can be difficult to identify and evaluate at home, owners are encouraged to consult their vet and find out if the lump should be tested and identified. Lumps are likely to develop at some point in your dog's life. In cases such as cancer lumps or an abscess, early detection and treatment can improve your dog's quality of life, and potentially save them from serious and life-threatening consequences. The canine guide to lumps and bumps on dogs The canine guide to lumps and bumps on dogs Does your dog have a lump or bump on or under their skin? While lumps and bumps are more common in older dogs, younger dogs can get them too. Most lumps and bumps are benign non-cancerous , but some of them can be malignant cancerous. The older your dog is, the higher their chance of getting malignant lumps. The good news is that early detection and treatment of cancerous lumps can increase the chances of a cure. What type of lump or bump is more dangerous? What causes lumps and bumps on dogs, and how can you treat them? How your vet can tell what type of lump or bump your dog has Your vet will conduct one or more of the following tests to determine the type of lump or bump your dog has and the treatment required: Fine needle aspiration FNA — Firstly, your vet will determine if this procedure can be performed during the consultation without the use of sedatives. If the vet determines they can use this technique for a diagnosis, a small needle is inserted into the lump to suck out cells which are then deposited onto a slide. Next, the slide is stained and the slide is viewed under a microscope to examine the cells. Your vet may send the slide to a specialist pathologist in a laboratory for examination. Impression smear — If the lump discharges fluid, your vet may rub a slide onto the lump, and then stain it and examine the fluid as with an FNA. Generally, your dog will receive a sedative or anaesthetic and a small part of the lump or the entire lump will be removed. Then the lump is placed in formalin and sent to a lab, where thin sections of the lump are examined under a microscope. Lab test — If the lump contains fluid, the fluid could be sent to a lab to culture and check for infectious agents like fungi or bacteria. Types of lumps and bumps — benign vs malignant Benign non-cancerous lumps and bumps Benign lumps and bumps lack the ability to invade other tissues and spread to sites beyond where they are present. If benign lumps are causing problems, removal should be considered. They tend to be round, soft tumours of fat cells that grow very slowly and rarely spread, so it can take up to six months before you see any change. Lipomas can be easily diagnosed with FNA. If they become very big or hinder movement e. Abscesses Abscesses are swollen lumps that contain an accumulation of pus under the skin caused by an infectious agent. They will generally need to be drained under sedation and copiously flushed with a clean antibacterial solution. In some cases, your vet will prescribe antibiotics if they deem it necessary. Hives urticaria Hives on dogs are similar to those on humans — a rash of round, red weals on the skin that itch and swell due to a reaction of the skin to allergens such as a bee sting or contact allergy. They will often resolve on their own, however sometimes they need steroids or antihistamines to provide relief. Sebaceous cysts Sebaceous cysts are hard, cystic material under the skin that can form due to a blocked sebaceous gland. They appear like swellings with a creamy matter inside them. The swellings sometimes become red and sore. Histiocytomas Histiocytomas are an ulcerated nodule or red button-like lump often found in young dogs, particularly on their limbs. They normally go away quite quickly but you should still have them checked by your vet as they can imitate some very nasty cancerous tumours. Sebaceous adenomas Sebaceous adenomas are tumours of sebaceous glands that appear as multiple wart-like growths. A biopsy is required for diagnosis but vets can often diagnose these lumps by just looking at them due to their classic appearance and slow growth. Perianal adenomas Perianal adenomas are tumours that grow around the anus, mostly in non-desexed older dogs. Any lump or bump around the anal region requires proper assessment and investigation due to malignant tumours in this area being common. Warts Warts are more common in puppies, older dogs and dogs that are immunocompromised, and look like small skin tags or several small lumps. Dogs that go to a doggy daycare or dog parks can get warts due to close social contact with other dogs. A biopsy is required for diagnosis but vets can tell due to their classic feathery appearance. However, they can irritate your dog, and if this occurs removal should be considered. Granulomas Granulomas can be raised red lumps that may have a surface crust, or they can be found under the skin and have a firm consistency. Surgical excision is often required for treatment. Haemangiomas Haemangiomas are tumours of blood vessels or underlying tissues of the skin. Diagnosis is done by a biopsy or surgical excision with the sample being tested by a pathologist. This is always recommended as these tumours can change over time to become malignant. Surgical excision is curative if the tumour is benign. Malignant cancerous lumps and bumps Malignant lumps and bumps grow and can spread through the body and affect organs like the liver and lungs, along with the brain and bones. They can spread by local growth destroy nearby tissues or by metastasis tumour cells enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system to spread to other body sites. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are also often used to prevent further spread. Usually vets will start with a FNA. They usually spread by local invasion and can be difficult to remove, as prompt, careful resection with a wide surgical margin is required. Melanomas Melanomas in dogs are not caused by sunlight and are a lot less malignant than human melanomas. Canine melanomas are tumours involving cells that give pigment to the skin. They can be benign or malignant and appear as dark lumps on the skin that grow slowly. More aggressive tumours grow on the mouth and legs. They have to be removed but they can recur. Squamous cell carcinomas Squamous cell carcinomas are skin cell tumours found on unpigmented or hairless areas such as the eyelids, vulva, lips and nose, and present as raised, crusty sores. They usually grow by local invasion and should be removed. Mammary carcinomas breast cancer Mammary carcinomas are cancerous growths of the mammary glands. They spread by metastasis to the lymph nodes, other mammary glands and organs. Osteosarcomas Osteosarcomas are the most common bone tumour, especially in large male dogs. They can cause bumps or lumps to form in the bone, usually in the limbs, and often spread to the lungs by metastasis. They need surgical removal, which may include amputation of the affected limb. Chondrosarcomas Chondrosarcomas are the second most common bone tumour and usually occurs inside of the nose. A biopsy and lab tests of bone and skin tissue are also required for diagnosis. In some circumstances, the vet will recommend a CT examination to determine exactly where in the body the malignant cells are. This is called staging. Other things that cause lumps and bumps on dogs Ticks Causes Your dog can get ticks if you take them for a walk in bush areas or scrub areas that harbour ticks. Ticks can also reside in tall lawns and shrubs and in compost material in your backyard. Consult with your vet for advice on what ticks are prevalent in your area, and what signs to look for. A tick crater is proof that a tick was attached to your dog. Tick craters can be felt as lumps on the surface of the skin. Most ticks will attach to the face, neck, and ears, but they can also attach to other areas of the body. The best way to avoid your dog getting ticks is to use tick preventatives year round. Check your dog daily for tick craters and bumps by running your hands over their body, paying particular attention to their neck, ears, under their collar and between their paws. More treatment options available for your dog Depending on the type of lump or bump your dog has, its location and size, and the characteristics of your dog, more treatment options are available, including: lumpectomy for benign and early malignant lumps and bumps. This is the surgical removal of the lump. Sometimes a very large incision is required to ensure that all potential cells are removed. This is when extreme cold liquid nitrogen is used to remove very superficial skin lesions. Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to kill cancer cells in the whole of the body. Other types of therapy that can be used to treat lumps and bumps on your dog include: hyperthermia.

I have a great love and passion for German Shepherds, due to their intelligence and loyalty. I have a large, close family that are helping me raise, train, show and breed the dogs I love. Tiltonhaus kennel is attached to our home so that our German Shepherds can live primarily in our home enjoying family life with us. Rotating the dogs this way gives each dog lots of quality time with us. We strive to give our dogs the environment and attention that best enhances their well being and health. We live on 10 acres of land where our dogs can run and explore, along with several secure yards and runs for outdoor activity. Tiltonhaus German Shepherd dogs enjoy family outings, such as hikes, bike rides, picnics, camping, vacations, etc. All of our German Shepherds are purebred, AKC Registered, and come from top West German champion bloodlines known for producing dogs that are not only beautiful, but have balanced temperaments and strong work ethics. Degenerative Myelopathy. Our breeding dogs have had their hips and elbows certified with either the German SV a-stamp program or through OFA, which gives us the confidence to have all of our Tiltonhaus puppies guaranteed for hips and health in writing. Our puppies are handled and socialized from birth. So we become very attached to these little pups and care about their well being. Potential buyers should be prepared to answer questions about why they want to purchase a puppy and their plans for their puppy. We recommend that your new puppy get basic obedience training to be a happy, well-adjusted dog. Tiltonhaus is family owned and operated, fully licensed business located in Deer Park, Washington 15 minutes north of Spokane, WA. The hair length is short and the coat lays flat against the body. The Stock coat has an undercoat, which sheds out twice per year - seasonally. It means a coat is 'plushier' than the short coat, and is preferred more in the show ring. It's basically is a longer, fuller coat. This term can be used on a Stock Coat short or Long Stock long coat dogs, depending on who is using it. Image: Chelsey V. The undercoat will be thinner in the summer and thicker in winter. As a puppy, you can not tell how long it will be. Long and full is desired with sort of a lions mane. It will not grow as long or thick in hotter climates. These dogs are stunning and in high demand. It parts down the middle of the back. It is soft, sort of fly away hair, light and very long. There is never an undercoat. It has long hair or feathering on the ears, legs, and tail. A puppy inherits only one gene form each parent. A long coat has been considered undesirable for many decades, and historically there were just short stock dogs used in breeding and selection. This puppy was considered a fault in the litter. A long coat is demonstrated only when a dog is homozygous on gene "l" - has pair of recessive l alleles at this locus. This is done to have more predictability in breeding, as mating between heterozygous dogs is highly unpredictable and has a large variety of possible outcome from producing puppies of pure short stock LL , to carriers Ll and Pure Long Coat ll. While this seems like a great idea to outcross all heterozygous on the Locus L dogs from breeding programs, this will take some time. Many "plush" dogs are very active in breeding, as frankly, they look great and thicker coat is an added benefit to those breeders that still do not accept Long Coat dogs. Large probability is only scary to those that do not understand how to predict the outcome. We enjoy learning and studying and have pretty clear understanding of what to expect in our breeding. Vom Geliebten Haus. Our breeding program has earned the the highest level of accomplishments that a kennel in the United States can achieve. Nadelhaus breeds purebred German Shepherds year round and we also import both German Shepherd puppies and adults direct from Europe for our clients. Long-haired German Shepherds are technically called a long coat German Shepherd, while a short-haired German Shepherd is called a normal coat or stock coat German Shepherd. Dogs with either coat have the same physiological structure and both have double coats: an undercoat and a top coat. The only difference between the two is the top coat. The long haired German Shepherd will have a heavier top coat than the undercoat. The double coat of a German Shepherd is an important feature of the breed. The double coat weathers and insulates the dogs—it protects them from the cold in the winter and the heat in the summer. The length of the coat of a German Shepherd has no impact on its ability as a working dog. What does a long haired German Shepherd look like? The skeleton and structure of a long-haired German Shepherd will be the same as a short-haired German Shepherd. Both dogs will have an undercoat, but the difference is that the top coat of a long-haired German Shepherd will be longer. The long coat GSD has longer and silkier hair on the chest, back, face, tail, and on the backside of its legs. Short on the head, including the inside of the ears, on the front side of the legs, on the paws and toes, somewhat longer and more strongly covered in hair on the neck, almost forming a mane. On the back side of the legs the hair extends to the carpal joint or the hock and forms clear trousers on the back side of the haunches. Historically, German Shepherds originated in Germany and were native sheepdogs. He firmly believed that the standard of the German Shepherd breed should not include dogs with long hair. Throughout the s, long haired German Shepherds were considered unsuitable and unacceptable for breeding. It is important to note that long-haired German Shepherds are the result of natural genetic diversity and not a separate breed. Their long coats are an inherited trait that can occur when both parents carry the recessive long-hair gene. This gene manifests as a more luxurious and abundant coat, offering a striking contrast to the traditional short-haired German Shepherd appearance. The breeding of long-haired German Shepherds follows the same rigorous standards and principles as their short-haired counterparts. The focus remains on maintaining the breed's exceptional temperament, working abilities, and overall health. Over time, breeders recognized the value of long-haired German Shepherds and began selectively breeding them to maintain and enhance their unique characteristics. Through careful pairings and strategic breeding programs, the long-haired variety established itself as a distinct and cherished branch of the German Shepherd breed. How big do long-haired German Shepherds get? Long-haired German Shepherds are structurally the same as short-haired German Shepherds, therefore they can both grow to similar sizes. Males: inches tall, pounds Females: inches tall, pounds Since both German Shepherds are physiologically the same, they also have the same temperaments: loyal, intelligent, energetic, courageous and protective. German Shepherds are ranked 2 on the AKC Breed Popularity list and make for wonderful family companions and working dogs. How can I identify a long-haired German Shepherd puppy? In the photo below are two litter mates from a recent Nadelhaus litter. The puppy on the left is a long coat and the puppy on the right is a normal coat. The long coat has wispier hair on the chest, back, face, tail, and on the backside of its legs. Long-hair female German Shepherd next to short-hair male German Shepherd. Genetically in German Shepherds, the short hair gene is dominant and the long hair gene is recessive. This means if two short-haired German Shepherds are mated, but neither carries the recessive long hair gene, then no long haired puppies can be produced. However, if two short-haired German Shepherds are mated and both carry the recessive gene, then long-haired German Shepherd puppies can be produced. Long-haired German Shepherds are considered a less common variant of the breed, adding to their allure and exclusivity. While short-haired German Shepherds dominate the breed standard, enthusiasts of long-haired Shepherds appreciate their unique beauty and elegant appearance. Due to their rarity, finding a reputable breeder or rescue organization specializing in long-haired German Shepherds may require some research and patience. However, the joy of owning one of these beautiful dogs is well worth the effort for those who appreciate their longer coats and exceptional qualities. Do long-haired German Shepherds shed more than short-haired German Shepherds? No, this is a common misconception. Although they shed less than short haired German Shepherds, their coats still require regular maintenance. They will need regular brushing and grooming, especially if you enjoy hiking or outdoor activities with your GSD. While it is a rare occurrence for a long-haired GSD to not have an undercoat, most of them do have undercoats. And just like short-haired GSDs, their undercoats will shed more or less throughout the year depending on the season. Should I trim my long haired German Shepherd's coat? The decision to trim a long haired German Shepherd comes down to personal preference, but it is not a necessity. Trimming can help make for more manageable living around the house. If you choose to trim, you can trim around the backs of the ears, on the back of the legs both front and back and then thin the bushy tail. Shaving a German Shepherd on the other hand is never recommended. Their double coats help keep them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. What are long haired German Shepherds called? Regular brushing: Long-haired German Shepherds require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles. Aim for at least a few brushing sessions per week to keep their coat in good condition. Finish your brushing session with a gentle dog brush to clean up loose hairs. Bathing and drying: It's important to bathe your long-haired German Shepherd as needed, using a dog-specific shampoo. Be sure to thoroughly rinse out all the shampoo to prevent any residue. After bathing, use a high-velocity dryer or a cool air dryer to dry their coat thoroughly, as moisture trapped in the fur can lead to skin issues. Professional grooming: Consider taking your long-haired German Shepherd to a professional groomer for occasional trimming and coat maintenance. A groomer can help keep the fur around sensitive areas, such as the paws and ears, tidy and reduce the chances of matting. Watch for seasonal shedding: Like all German Shepherds, long-haired ones will undergo shedding seasons. Be prepared for increased shedding during these times and brush your dog more frequently to remove loose hair. A de-shedding tool can be helpful in managing shedding and keeping their coat healthy. Remember, each dog is unique, and the specific care requirements may vary. Does Nadelhaus sell long haired German Shepherd puppies? Nadelhaus breeds German Shepherds puppies year round and while the majority of puppies we sell are short hair, we do have occasionally have long haired puppies. We breed all our German Shepherds in the black and red color. If you are looking for a long haired adult German Shepherd, we can also import long-haired German Shepherds direct from Europe. Contact us for more information. Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. Have you ever heard the term before - Plush coated German Shepherd? In case you have no idea exactly what this means I'll do my best here to turn a rather ambiguous term into an easier to understand concept. As we've discussed before in this site German Shepherd Dogs basically come in 3 coat lengths which are:Standard, Plush and Coated. So what does that mean? How can you know what coat your GSD is wearing? All righty then.So first let's talk about the standard coat. This is the coat most German Shepherds are dressed in. These German Shepherds usually have less undercoat too. So, maybe this will help if you were to think of it this way - standard coated German Shepherds wear their fur closely to their bodies - kind of like a military soldier who wears their hair cut close to their skull. Coated German Shepherds are also called long coated German Shepherds. As their description suggests these GSDs have a much longer coat with longer fur around their ears, behind the backs of their legs and on their chest and tail. These long feathers aka: feathering are very beautiful and make the dogs look almost "collie-like" somewhat - speaking of coat only. Well, when speaking of coat basically they're kind of in-between the standard coated GSDs and the Coated German Shepherds - but they are closer overall to the standard coat dogs. Plush coated GSDs do not have feathering of any type. The plush coat German Shepherds have a much longer length of hair compared to the standard coated dogs and a much fuller undercoat too. Their fur is thicker, fuller and just longer overall than a standard coated GSD - and it is very obvious to the the touch and to the eye as well. But to make it even easier I'll illustrate with a few pictures here to make the point a bit easier to understand. So, I hope these descriptions and pictures will help you to better understand the difference between standard, coated and plush coated German Shepherds. Return from plush coat German Shepherds to German Shepherd coat patterns "Life is life - whether in a cat, or dog or man. There is no difference there between a cat or a man. The idea of difference is a human conception for man's own advantage.

Small, hypoallergenic and cuddly companions, these pups inherited some of the best qualities from both of their parents. This zesty little designer dog has captured the hearts of many Americans in recent years. With their low shedding coats and playful nature, this pup is suitable for almost every home. The fact the Shih Poo only needs a moderate amount of exercise and is extremely small makes them well suited to apartments and city living. These dogs do need lots of grooming but their gorgeous coats make this a pleasurable task. Read MoreLess Temperament: They are known for their lively, affectionate nature. These little dogs will have everyone smiling with their crazy antics. These guys are confident and friendly with everyone. They are well known for getting along with all people and dogs alike. The Poodle is known for their eagerness to please. These dogs are highly intelligent and trainable. They are loyal and form strong bonds with their humans. Toy Poodles have a reputation for being somewhat highly strung. Adult Weight:. Life Span Did You Know? The Shih-Poo has an adorable, alert expression and small, sturdy body. They can take after the Poodle parent, the Shih-Tzu parent, or be any combination of the characteristics of both parent breeds. Shih-Poos tend to be friendly, playful, and affectionate. They love their families and are avidly devoted to them. They tend to be friendly to other dogs, strangers, other pets, and children. They tend to do better with older children who have been taught how to carefully handle a dog. Due to their small size, a Shih-Poo can be easily hurt by rough play or accidental falls. They can do well in families with younger children as long as any time with them is closely supervised. The Shih-Poo tends to be a courageous little dog. They make excellent watchdogs because they are very alert. However, they can become territorial and barking can become a nuisance if left unchecked. Early socialization and training can help curb these tendencies and help your Shih-Poo puppy grow into a well-behaved, confident dog. This designer dog breed is highly adaptable. They do well in apartments as well as in larger homes and tend to do well in most climates. They are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, so they do best in moderate climates. Due to their small size, they may need to layer up for short trips outside when winter rolls in. Because Shih-Poos crave affection and love their humans, they do not like being left alone for long periods of time. The Shih-Poo is a generally healthy designer dog breed. Although the genetic mix can sometimes result in winning the genetic lottery, a mixed dog breed can still be susceptible to health conditions common in one or both of the parent breeds in the cross. By talking with the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances, you can allay several of these potential health concerns. This designer dog breed is highly intelligent and can be easy to train. However, they can also have a stubborn streak that can cause some difficulty for first-time dog owners. This is often easily remedied with the help of some puppy training classes. They can also be difficult to housebreak, but it can be done with plenty of training, consistency, and patience. Crate training can also help. Shih-Poos respond best to positive, reward-based training. Whether with praise, treats, or play, you can reward your Shih-Poo for the behavior you like, which will encourage them to do more of it. Coat types and colors can vary greatly in your Shih-Poo. They can have the long, silky, and straight coat of the Shih Tzu, the short, curly, and non-shedding coat of the Poodle, or a combination of both. Most Shih-Poos end up with a curly or wavy, low or non-shedding coat. However, you should be prepared for your Shih-Poo to exhibit either coat type of the parent breeds. This coat looks its best with a combination of brushing a few times a week at home and then professional grooming every four to six weeks. This will help remove tangles and loose hair and prevent matting. Regular dental care is also important. Small dogs are more prone to dental disease. Drop down ears, or floppy ears, are more prone to ear infections because they can trap moisture, dirt, or debris. Daily walks and some indoor playtime will give this dog plenty of exercise. Beyond that, most of them can keep up with you on longer walks and can even compete in dog sports like rally, obedience, and agility. Be sure to check with your vet first and get your dog cleared before taking on any rigorous activities or training for dog sports. A Shih-Poo will generally stand 8 to 15 inches tall and weigh between 7 and 20 pounds. The size of the mother dog can give you a good idea of what to expect in your dog. This designer dog breed usually lives for 15 years or more. Some have even been known to live for 21 years! Featured Shih-Poo Article. What coat colors are available? The coat color of a Shih Poo will vary. They can come in black, brown, white, cream, apricot, gold, red and brindle or a combination of all or some of those colors. Will I need to regularly groom my Shih Poo? Daily to a few times per week brushings along with regular scheduled professional grooming appointments every 4 to 6 weeks will keep your little ones coat soft and clean. Will a Shih Poo make for a good family pet? They also really enjoy the company and comfort of older people. With patience and consistency, they will be trained in no time. How much exercise will my Shih Poo need? Since they are smaller dogs, they will require less exercise. Daily walks between 30 minutes will be plenty to keep them fit and active. They also love to have indoor play, so make sure to keep lots of safe toys available to them. What is the life expectancy of a Shih Poo? The average life expectancy of a Shih Poo is between 14 and 17 years. What is the temperament of a Shih Poo? These spirited little pups are full of love and energy. They are companion dogs, so they thrive in the company of others, but prefer the company of older adults. Training them to control their barking is best when it is corrected at a very young age. Does the Shih Poo shed a lot? No, they have very minimal shedding. They make for great companions for those that suffer with allergies. What kind of coat does the Shih Poo have? The coat can vary depending on which parent they take after more. Their coat can be wavy and wiry like the poodle or soft and straight like the Shih Tzu. It may also be a healthy mix of both. Do they adjust well to their living environment? Yes, they adjust very well. They are just as happy and content in a small apartment as they are in a big home. They need to be around people, so it is best not to leave them for long periods of time. If they become too upset or anxious they can get destructive. Shih Poo Reviews.