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View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Bonney Lake Washington and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups! Life Span Did You Know? They tend to be affectionate and loving dogs that make great family pets. They are even known to make great therapy dogs! Although they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other canine registries. One of the facts about Bernedoodles is that they are true companion dogs. They are cuddly companions that love nothing more than being with their favorite humans. As long as they are well-socialized and trained, Mini Bernedoodles tend to get along well with children, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Miniature Bernedoodles are highly adaptable dogs. They do well in larger homes as well as apartments. They are sensitive to heat and extreme cold, but do well in most climates. Because they bond so closely with their families and thrive on attention, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time and can develop separation anxiety if you do not work with them early on. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. You can ask about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Mini Bernedoodles are intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. This makes them a highly trainable dog that is a good fit for owners of all experience levels. They can become stubborn if training is not consistent or clear. Although their coat tends to be low-shedding and will range from straight to wavy or curly, the Mini Bernedoodle coat requires some maintenance. Daily brushing is recommended to remove tangles and prevent mats. Professional grooming is recommended every weeks. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep them from growing too long and causing issues. Ear checks on a weekly basis with careful cleanings as needed help to prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, Mini Bernedoodles are more prone to developing gum disease. Good dental care for dogs early and consistently throughout their life can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Daily tooth brushing, plus cleanings at the vet as needed, is ideal. Although Mini Bernedoodles will be playful and have bursts of energy while playing, they are not high-energy dogs. They tend to sit in a more moderate range. Daily walks plus some playtime throughout the day are usually enough for them. But, they love spending time with you and will likely be up for more activity if you are. They may be smaller dogs, but they also tend to be relatively athletic. When puppies finish growing , you can try higher-impact activities like running, hiking, training for dog sports, and more. Fully-grown Mini Bernedoodles usually stand inches tall. They can range from pounds. F1B and F2 Mini Bernedoodles usually weigh pounds and are on the shorter side of the range. Mini Bernedoodles generally live for years on average. Featured Mini Bernedoodle Article.

These desirable qualities are a result of meticulous breeding practices and superior genetics. Ritterhund K9s are specifically bred for stability and soundness. Our German Shepherds exemplify the values of Obedience, Protection, and Service, making them exceptional ambassadors. While they possess strength, endurance, and speed, they are also affectionate and devoted family companions. These are the dogs you can rely on to safeguard your home and watch over your loved ones when you're away. German Shepherds view their family as their "pack" and are instinctively protective. They can cuddle with your toddler and accompany your child to the school bus, but should any threat arise, their strength and fierceness will manifest as an unstoppable force. When you become part of the Ritterhund Family, you become a lifelong member. We take great pride in our breeding program and are committed to surpassing expectations for both our K9s and customers. If you are fortunate enough to own a German Shepherd with these genetics, then you understand the difference in these K9s. Bomber is an absolute legend in the K9 Community. These puppies will be large, have high and medium drives, and be steady-tempered. We put countless hours into raising them with the proper foundation they need. Structural balance and harmony that you will only find in this genetic combination we have in this breeding. We are very selective in the homes in which our puppies are placed. A family who is educated on the breed, lives an active lifestyle, and who are willing and able to put the time and effort into properly raising their puppy. We are located near the Central Coast of California. We hand deliver our puppies to their new owners if within reasonable driving distance for no charge. Air in-cabin flight nanny and Ground transport are available for an additional charge for customers located out of the surrounding areas or state. We highly recommend placing a deposit early as our puppies do go quickly. Please download the puppy application or contact us via email or text for details. Please contact us for puppy prices. But once your puppy is born and you have accepted an alphabet puppy litter and choose to back out, your deposit is subject to forfeit. Birth to weaning so if you change your mind after confirming, you are reducing the time the next family has to also prepare for their new puppy. No restrictions on AKC full registration and full breeding rights given on your haus von Wiese puppy. Final payment is due at time of puppy pick up or after delivery arrangements are scheduled, 2 days prior to flight. No additional Charge for puppy pick up in Huntersville NC. September Breeding We had a successful breeding between Lotte and Gringo. We expect our "B" litter to arrive in early November, with take home after 8 weeks of nursing taking us through New Years .The breeding took place but we need a month for the puppies to grow in utero before our vet can confirm the pregnancy. Any overflow will roll over to our Spring Cersei long coat dam litter. Paska is undoubtedly one of the most well known working dog Black German Shepherds of all time. Just as strategically as horses are bred to increase positive attributes, we are breeding in a similar style. Our goal is to save Paska's heritage and continue to produce puppies containing his well balanced temperament, drive and strong working ability. Bomber carries some of the same impressive attributes as Paska and is the product of highly accomplished and highly decorated shepherds in Germany. It is our goal to preserve both bloodlines while integrating fresh new lines from Germany to be sure of safe breeding outcome. Along with 7-week old personality and drive level testing on each puppy, we strive to match each puppy with it's family to achieve long-term fit and family harmony. Our breeding pairs are selected with great health, hips and elbows from multi generational excellence of their lineage. Scroll below to our breeding dogs and click on their Pedigeree Link to view their impressive German pedigree. Thank you to the families that are giving loving new homes to our precious black German Shepherd puppies! Please call or text to reserve your puppy. Nolan was a magnificent 4 time competitor of the German Bundesseiger. You don't want to miss this stunner! Winn-Dixie is a fabulous mix of both Unkas and Nolan. V Paska vom Salztalblick. We are hapy to include Aurora and her freshness to our breeding program. Basia is an incredible product of our exclusive breeding program from the flawless Paska bloodline. Lotte and her parents have all tested the highest for Hip and Elbow tests in Germany, A normal. Mazikeen joined us from German European Import parents. Mazikeen's coat is long, glossy and incredibly soft. Mazikeen has a sweet natured and pleasing personality who produces family companion pups. Cersei's coat is long, glossy and incredibly soft. We are proud and excited for her to join our home and our breeding program. This is not true. They have a large, muscular build They have a fluffy tail Their ears are erect They have a double coat They are heavy shedders They are a solid black color They can be larger They often have a straighter back Their coat can be longer, sometimes with a flowing mane around the rear of the neck , skirting on either side of the body between the front and back legs and feathering long hair on the ears, backs of legs and beneath the tail 3. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black All German Shepherd puppies are either born black, gray or white and can change color as they grow. Their true coat color can usually be determined at about 8 weeks of age. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black and will stay black through adulthood. So, if you are looking for a solid Black German Shepherd puppy, you will want to get her at this age, and not before, in order to be sure she is indeed a solid black color. A German Shepherd that is, say, black and tan, can carry the recessive solid black gene and produce Black German Shepherd puppies. However, both parents must have the recessive gene for solid black to appear in the litter. It can happen. The second way solid Black German Shepherd puppies are produced is by mating two solid blacks. This mix can only produce a solid black litter. The color of this dog does not affect its temperament. The Black German Shepherd is just as loyal, alert, active and intelligent as the standard variety and is not predisposed to aggression. She is often aloof at first, but once you bond with her, she will be your companion for life. Black German Shepherds are also incredibly trainable and are used as police and military dogs, disability aid dogs, and obedience dogs. Look how obedient this month old Black Shepherd puppy is: Just like any German Shepherd, their protective instinct can be strong. These are dogs that were used to herd and protect livestock, and they will do the same with their human pack! In the case of your family coming into danger, have no doubt this dog will defend you. As a companion dog, however, you want her to recognize that not all people are a threat. Make sure you socialize her from a young age so that she gets on well with people in adulthood. They can be pricey Black German Shepherds are quite rare and for this reason tend to cost more, especially if they have the long, luxurious coat. Like all German Shepherds, they are prone to health problems The German Shepherd breed can, unfortunately, suffer from numerous health issues. The number one concern for this breed is hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. This condition occurs when the ball and socket joint is malformed and can result in arthritis or even lameness. This can be helped by maintaining a healthy weight in your dog. Other potential health problems include: Heart disease. Playfulness Watchdog Ability The German Shepherd Dog is a natural protector and so adaptable and intelligent that they have performed about every job known to dogs. If he had opposable thumbs, he would be unstoppable. Intelligent and obedient, purebred German Shepherd puppies are more than devoted pets - they are lifelong companions. Pure-breed black German shepherd puppies have the right temperament to make engaging family pets. Leave them alone or confined. These pups will grow mischievous and become high-strung. As the name implies, they originated in Germany in the late s. As part of the Herding Group, German Shepherds were used for livestock, herding, and guarding sheep. Back then, GSDs were not considered pets or companions but servants of farmers. Although German Shepherds weren't considered household pets, their owners did provide proper food, protection, and shelter. In the early s, a German cavalry officer named Captain Max Von Stephanitz made it his mission to create an ideal German herder. He co-founded the world's first club devoted to German Shepherds. Von spent 35 years promoting and refining the wonderful breed. People finally noticed how strong, smart, and obedient German Shepherds are. So now the military employs them as working dogs. Their intelligence, strength, speed, obedience, agility, and keen sense of smell make them perfect for the job. German Shepherds are also very versatile and make great companions. Their impressive and lovable personalities soon drew the attention of other countries. German Shepherd dog was brought to the United States in the early s, and American breeders began to develop their own lines of the breed. The American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd in , and the species has been one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States ever since. Today, GSDs are not only considered one of the most favorite household pets. The versatility and outstanding characteristics make German Shepherds beautiful pets, companions, and protectors. Due to the breed's reputation for being loyal, courageous, and easy to train, German Shepherds are used as police or military dogs. Personality Know the personality and temperament of your German Shepherd Dog German Shepherds are well-known for their smartness, confidence, intelligence, loyalty, and courageous personalities. As household pets, German Shepherd dogs get along with their owners and other members of the family. However, they do not get along with strangers easily, but with time, they warm up to anyone who tries to be friendly with them. The German Shepherd dog breed is distinguished for courage, loyalty, and the ability to maintain training. Because German Shepherds have strong guardian instincts, they tend to be loyal and protective of their owners and children. Given their strong guardian instincts, inadequate training and poor socialization can make them aggressive toward strangers. Their over-protective and aggressive behaviors can put any owner at risk. Therefore, GSDs should be carefully socialized with proper training from a very young age. The best thing about GSDs is that they are intelligent. German Shepherd dogs are usually active and like to be occupied with an activity. They do well with people who allow them to stay active. They need an ample amount of exercise daily to retain their activeness. They should be continually exposed to supervision during the training period. Most importantly, your German Shepherd should not be confined to a kennel or backyard alone, as GSDs like to be around their loved ones. Keeping them tied up alone will make them lonely and aggressive. A German Shepherd dog should be purchased from a good and reputed breeder. We do not hand over any puppy or dog without having them vet-checked. Health Health is wealth, even for your German Shepherd dog. As a dog lover, when you welcome a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they become an integral part of your life. Besides training your dog, it is best to focus on your pet's wellness. You must do everything you need to optimize your pet's health and happiness. Most German Shepherds are usually healthy dogs if purchased from a good breeder. A responsible breeder will screen breeding stock to check on health conditions such as elbow dysplasia, canine hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, etc. The German Shepherd Dog has an average lifespan of 9 to 13 years. Male, Adult German Shepherd weighs around lbs. Female, Adult German Shepherd weighs around lbs. They can run 30 mph Maximum Running. Moreover, German Shepherds are prone to experience problems like bloat, skin allergies, gastric torsion, and abdomen swelling. German Shepherds experience these conditions. German Shepherds must be taken to the vet, like most other dogs, for routine health checkups. A regular checkup allows you to track your pet's health condition. Owners should be aware of all the GSDs' health-related symptoms to take care of them by taking their dogs to the vet when any symptom occurs. Besides, if you want to buy a healthy pet, you must contact a good breeder. We do everything a good breeder would do to deliver a healthy puppy to a customer. We also discuss health problems in the genetics of a puppy or dog. Grooming The importance of grooming your German Shepherd dog The adorable appearance of the German Shepherd dog is known to all. They are very adorable and majestic to look at. GSDs usually shed twice a year. Proper grooming helps in controlling shedding and keeps the coat nice. They only need a quick brushing a few times a week. A thorough brush helps to remove loose hairs from their coat and keep the fur nice and shiny. During the shedding time, frequent brushing is required to prevent the mess caused by heavy shedding. Giving the occasional bath should suffice to help them clean and smell nice. Your dog can end up hurting you unintentionally if the nails are too long. Invest in quality dog grooming products to ensure proper and safe grooming. Thus, do not forget to groom your precious German Shepherd dog. Finding How to find the right German Shepherd Breeders? The German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breeds in the U. S and all over the world. GSDs have love and affection towards their owners, whether a puppy, a young dog, or an adult dog. Find and choose a good breeder to find the right German Shepherd puppy. Finding a good breeder is the key if you want a purebred and healthy German Shepherd puppy or dog. You need a good and reputed breeder to find the right puppy or dog for your family. Most importantly, puppies and dogs sold by breeders must be AKC-registered, which means that they follow the rules and regulations established by the AKC. We care more about placing the puppies in the right homes than making big bucks. We are happy to share any information you need about a puppy. We welcome any questions about a puppy with a big smile. The price is determined by several factors, including but not limited to the following: The breeder's location Show Record How many puppies can a German shepherd have? A German shepherd can have six to eight puppies. Larger litter are usually born to dogs that are bred early and often. The mother's milk production is also stimulated by the hormone prolactin, which is secreted in large amounts after mating. When do German shepherd puppies' ears stand up? Some puppies' ears stand up as early as 5 or 6 weeks old, but others don't have completely erect ears until they're a few months old. As long as the puppy's ears start to stand up by about 8 or 9 weeks old, there's no need to worry. If the puppy's ears haven't begun to stand up by then, you should take it to the vet to see if there's a problem. Contact us before the puppies get sold. However, the black German Shepherd is much less well-known. This coloration is extremely rare and not currently recognized by most major kennel clubs. But they have since grown significantly in popularity. Usually, German Shepherds have a single coat pattern — black and tan. However, fully black German Shepherds do exist. This is not due to crossbreeding; the gene for completely black coats is carried by purebred German Shepherds. It is much rarer than the usual coloration, though. They have the same build and grow to be the about same size as a purebred German Shepherd. Males usually weight between 65 to 90 pounds, while females are 50 to 75 pounds. These are considered medium-to-large dogs, so consider whether you have the space before adopting one. Their height is around inches. This is correct for both males and females. Black German Shepherds are completely black. Most German Shepherds have at least a little bit of black on them. However, German Shepherds have nothing but black. Their coat is generally the same besides for their different in coloration. Their double-coat helps them stay clean and warm. As working dogs, these canines are built to work, and it shows. This coat color is accepted by the AKC. It is also not the result of crossbreeding, as some misinformation may state. Instead, it is simply a rare color that very few German Shepherds end up with. It only showed up recently and is sometimes encouraged through selective breeding. While the gene for a solid black coat was once though to be recessive, many people now consider it to be dominant. These dogs always have dark-colored eyes. Blue eyes are extremely rare and usually a sign that a dog has other breeds in his pedigree, such as Huskies. Other than the color, the body of black German Shepherds looks just like his black and tan cousins. As in all German Shepherds, the ears are typically erect, though floppy ears in adult can be seen occasionally. History By , the generalized herding dogs of Europe had split themselves into a few different distinctive breeds, including the German Shepherd. During the s, there was an attempt to standardize dog breeds and promote traits that encouraged sheep herding, including speed, strength, endurance, and intelligence. However, varieties still existed from place to place. Slight breeding difference had led to slightly different shepherds. During the industrial revolution, the need for sheepdogs decreased along with the predator population. Luckily, by this point, people were already recognizing the intelligence and ability of the previous herding dogs. From this dog the breed standard grew. In just a few generations, the German Shepherd was one of the most populous in the world. Honrand fathered many puppies. Nearly all German Shepherds today are descended from him. There was quite a bit of inbreeding that occurred to produce the German Shepherd breed we know today. The Black German Shepherd has likely existed to some extent since the breed was produced. However, many dogs do not carry the completely black gene. Many completely black German Shepherds in the past were likely culled at birth due to the defect. Today, the gene is seeing a reoccurrence. Personality and Temperament The German Shepherd is often considered to be an aggressive dog. However, this is not completely true. They do have significant protective instincts, as they were originally bred to guard flocks of sheep. For instance, the German Shepherd has a bite force of over 1, newtons. But there are several dogs that rank around this as well, including the Rottweiler, Pit Bull, and Labrador Retriever. Most dogs at about this size are going to have a similar bite strength. German Shepherds are considered to be moderately active. They need just about as much exercise as dogs of a similar size. This breed is well-known for being heavily devoted to their people and easy to train. When trained properly, they will absolutely listen. However, they do have innate protective instincts. If you want to dog that is going to be protective of their family, this is a great choice. These canines do need extensive socialization starting at a young age, though. Otherwise, they can become a bit too protective of their family and territory. These canines are not the friendliest. They are people-oriented, but not with strangers. They tend to be quite unsure with strangers. At best, they usually ignore them completely. Other times, they may be obviously uncomfortable. German Shepherds have high prey drive. On the one hand that means that you can easily motivate them with a ball or tug toy. On the other hand, it requires a lot of supervision for owners that have small dogs or cats in addition to their shepherd. While your dog might not outright try to fight with a cat or smaller dog, he could even accidentally hurt them during play. They are extremely intelligent and devoted to their owners. Unlike some dog breeds, they will listen to their owners in most real-life situations. They can learn a variety of different commands very easily and will actually do them when asked. However, these dogs do need the training. Without it, they can be overly protective and even potentially dangerous. Their ease of training does make fulfilling this need quite easy, though. We do recommend puppy classes starting at a very young age. These classes provide the extra socialization that your dog needs, as well as allows you to jumpstart their training. We only recommend private classes for dogs that are too reactive around strangers and other dogs to thrive in a group class. Usually, only German Shepherds who were not properly socialized as puppies will fit into this category. If you adopt an older German Shepherd that seems in need of socialization, we recommend taking private classes with an experienced trainer. You can work your dog through some basic commands and then work on socializing them with safe people and dogs. The trainer should be able to help you in this regard. The German Shepherd is a more active breed, and completely black German Shepherds are not different. While there are more active dog breeds out there, these canines are best for those that are quite active. They need at least two medium-to-long walks per day. Puppies will likely need some extra play sessions as well. Health and Care German Shepherds are pretty healthy as far as purebred dogs come. However, they are prone to some health problems. Many of these are due to the inbreeding that occurred early in the breed, which made some previously rare traits more common. Black German Shepherds are not known to have any more health problems than their black-and-tan cousins. Their coat coloration is not associated with any particular health issues or anything of that sort. It is important to purchase these dogs from a qualified breeder, as they tend to perform plenty of health testing on any dog they plan on breeding. This helps them recognize health problems and pick only the healthiest dogs possible for producing litters. We do recommend purchasing a German Shepherd that was bred as a working dog — not one produced as a show dog. These two lines of dogs are somewhat distinct as they have been bred for two very different purposes. Show dogs tend to confirm to an extreme extent to the breed standard, which increase the amount of health problems they develop. On the other hand, working dogs were bred with practicality in mind. Many German Shepherds have hip and elbow dysplasia. This disease occurs when the ball and socket of the joint do not line up correctly, leading to excess wear-and-tear. Eventually, this cause arthritis-like symptoms, but at a much earlier age than arthritis typically shows up. Usually, this damage occurs during puppyhood when the dog is growing, but they may not show symptoms until a few years later. There are a few things pet owners can do to reduce the chance of hip and elbow dysplasia in their German Shepherd. Many of these dogs are also affected by degenerative spinal stenosis. However, this study had a notably small sample size, so it may not be entirely accurate. On a good note, German Shepherds are actually less likely to get ear infections than other dogs. Degenerative myelopathy occurs often enough in German Shepherds that they are likely predispositioned to it. This test is very expensive, so many breeders perform it on their dogs before breeding as well as on the puppies after they are born. Once the test is used regularly, it becomes very easy to remove it from the breed. Von Willebrand disease also occurs at a higher level in German Shepherds than in the normal dog population. It is likely that they are genetically predispositioned to it. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency occurs in German Shepherds as well. This condition is usually treated with medication and pancreatic supplements. It is most likely genetic, so health testing and keeping track of pedigrees is important to eliminating it in the breed. Medium-coated dogs will only need brush two to three times a week. Long coats will need combed through at least once a day to prevent mats. Because of their double coat, dogs of all coat types will shed profusely. Do not adopt a black German Shepherd unless you can deal with a lot of extra hair. Even if you brush your dog daily, they will still shed everywhere. Usually, this occurs in the spring and fall, but it can depend on your local climate. Shedding is also tied to hormones — not just the weather. There is little you can do to reduce the overall amount of shedding your dog does. However, anti-shedding shampoos and a high-quality diet can help. It is usually not too difficult to find a normal German Shepherd breeder somewhere near you. However, not all breeders produce black dogs. Most will also be significantly more expensive than a black-and-tan German Shepherd due to their rarity. Many people want a black German Shepherd, which means that you often have to be prepared to pay a bit extra. However, this is still much cheaper than you might expect for a large dog. As a common breed, they are usually cheaper than most. It may be tempting to cut corners and purchase a cheaper puppy. However, this is not recommended, especially when it comes to German Shepherds. These puppies need socialized from the moment they are born. Often, breeders put in this time and effort. We highly recommend only purchasing puppies form very experienced breeders. Otherwise, you may end up with an unsocialized puppy and a troublesome temperament. You should always ask about the pedigree of the parents, as well as the health testing the breeder has done. Ask to see the parents if at all possible. Sometimes, the father will be located somewhere else, so only the mother will be at the breeder. In this case, it is usually fine to just see the mother. You can tell a lot about a breeder form how they keep the mother and the puppies, so be absolutely sure to ask to see their living conditions. The parents should be AKC registered, so you should ask for registration. But AKC registration does not mean that the dog is high-quality. Every German Shepherd can be registered — even those with no health testing. Preferably, you should have owned at least one dog before. It is recommended that you have some experience with more active dogs, as well. These dogs are quite active and tend to be high-energy. Without the appropriate amount of exercise, they can easily become destructive. In fact, most of the destructive behavior associated with a German Shepherd is due to a lack of stimulation. German Shepherds require extensive training as well, so it is best if they have a handler that has previously trained dogs. They will take up a few hours a day as puppies and require as much as an hour or two of exercise alone. Many of these canines are more expensive than their black-and-tan counterparts. However, they have won the hearts of many pet owners. It will often take you a little bit before you locate a completely black puppy, so be prepared to sit on a few waiting lists. Despite their unusual colorations, these dogs are very similar to all other German Shepherds. They have the same temperament and work great as guard dogs. You have to prepare to train and socialize them properly. They require quite a bit more work than other breeds, but it is absolutely worth it in the end. We recommend these dogs for serious dog owners who have previously owned dogs. German Shepherds are not for the casual dog owner. They need someone who can commit to their training and activity needs. 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. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.

The dog requires some outdoor space to loosen up when bored. Not only does the dog typically captures the bodily appearance of a Chow Chow, but also has a curved tail that is unlike the tail of a German Shepherd. The dog is also seen to inherit the long muzzle of the German Shepherd parent dog side along with a black accent on its face and pointy ears. This makes the German Shepherd Chow mix resemble the facial appearance of a bear or a lion. This dog is a quick learner, making it easily trainable even as a puppy. Part of its personality that you should try to address while training your dog is its stubbornness which originates from the nature of its Chow Chow parent dog side. Obedience training should be your initial and primary training method on the dog. Unlike the stubbornness of a Chow Chow, the German Shepherd Chow mix find great pleasure in exhausting itself with constant play time and attention by its owner. Without any form or source of mental or physical stimulation, the dog can easily become bored and may end up acting more aggressively or destructively to release its restrained tensions. The dog is prone to chasing things that run by it, so make sure it is always kept on a leash once the dog is taken for a walk or any other outdoor activity. German Shepherd Mixed with Chow Chow Puppies for Sale Before buying a German Shepherd Chow puppy, you need to consider your budget and the costs involved after paying for its ownership. About more than a thousand dollars is required for purchasing the puppy and providing it with medicines and vaccinations. The typical price of a German Shepherd and Chow Chow offspring range from two hundred and fifty dollars to seven hundred and fifty dollars. The best way of looking for this puppy is by checking out dog breeders who specialize in breeding German Shepherd Chow offspring. Besides crossing out possible health issues from parent dogs, your other concern when looking for quality breeders is the price of their puppies. Another budget-friendly method is by looking at adoption centers or German Shepherd Chow mix breeders who are open to adoption. An excellent and responsible dog breeder is someone who makes as many background checks on the buyer as possible. Below are some adoption sites and dog centers to get a German Shepherd Chow puppy: Petcurious. You could also attend professional dog shows, contact or join dog clubs, or talk with a veterinarian who may know or refer a German Shepherd Chow mix breeder to you. Since the dog would appear like its Chow Chow parent dog, its long hair can result in excessive shedding. Having a vacuum around can help you clean up the mess in your surroundings. You should shampoo the dog only when necessary such as flea or skin problems or in cases when it starts to smell unpleasing using shampoo products made for long coats Chow Chows. This dog shampoo is formulated with a Sweet Pea Vanilla scent for a more pleasing smell on the dog. It is also specifically designed for Chow Chow coats and is hypoallergenic. This dog shampoo is a good alternative for skin allergies and infections. It contains Bentonite clay which helps in alleviating itchiness, dry skin, and hot spots. Earthbath All Natural Pet Shampoo. Also formulated as a moisturizer, this dog shampoo includes Aloe Vera extracts. Do not forget about maintaining the nails of the dog. Just like many dogs, the German Shepherd Chow mix also needs its nails trimmed once in a while using specialized nail clippers for dogs. This is a genetic illness that is common to many dogs in general. In other cases, obesity and improper nutrition and diet can contribute to the development of hip dysplasia as well. The hip joints of the dog slowly deteriorate and could result in skeletal malformation. Flea Allergy. Irritation can occur once ticks or fleas get into the coat of your dog. The long coat of the German Shepherd Chow mix can provide the perfect and warm atmosphere for the pests to breed and feed for their eggs. Scientifically termed as gastric dilatation and volvulus or GDV, bloat is the result of gas filling up in the stomach. As the stomach expanses, the diaphragm and blood vessels get squished and could cause breathing and heart problems to the dog. Eye Problems. Pannus or chronic superficial keratitis is a common eye problem with the German Shepherd breed. When it is left untreated, the dog may experience blindness. It is usually common for the dog at its middle to the old age of seven to nine years and above. Heart Problems. Vital signs that you should be wary of are breathing problems, behavioral changes, weight and diet changes, abdomen swelling, and weakness. There are several reasons for the dog to catch a heart problem but being aware of the signs and symptoms should help in treating it as soon as possible. The German Shepherd Chow mix does not necessarily have any health issues or illnesses that were specifically pointed out. Nevertheless, the sicknesses and health problems that were mentioned above can still be passed on to the offspring derived from the genes of both parent dogs. Healthy supplements including chondroitin, fish oil or omega three acids and glucosamine should help in preventing or reducing hip dysplasia problems. According to the American Feed Control Officials, a German Shepherd Chow mix puppy should eat protein at about twenty-two percent, while an adult German Shepherd Chow should consume only eighteen percent of protein. Protein from whole meats including beef, fish, and chicken are recommended in its diet. It features the following ingredients: salmon, chicken meal, menhaden fish meal, pea derivatives, sweet potatoes, carrots, blueberries, and parsley. It is made grain-free and packed with protein. Ingredients are as follows: duck, chicken meal, turkey meal, whitefish meal, egg protein, peas and chickpeas, sesame oil, and almond oil. It is another grain-free dog food with a hundred percent satisfaction guarantee. This dog food contains a variety of animal protein and healthy fat sources. Ingredients include salmon, chicken meal, menhaden fish meal, lamb meal, chickpeas, split peas, dried potatoes, and sunflower oil. It is a unique-tasting and premium dog food made of real beef, dried whole eggs, pork meat meal, beef liver, potatoes, and sweet potatoes, salmon oil, cauliflower, apples, green beans, carrots, blueberries, and other sources of antioxidants. This dog food is full of nutrients and proteins without containing wheat sources. The ingredients include turkey, turkey meal, chicken meal, chicken fats, chicken liver, salmon oil, peas, and potatoes. Feeding your German Shepherd Chow mix should have a balanced diet just like any other dog. You should consult with your veterinarian about these dog foods and devise a holistic dietary plan. Too much protein is too much calorie for the dog and may result in too much weight. If you want to obtain the best food for your sweetheart, this is a place to start. Senior dogs have specific nutritional requirements and you should search for their food in the best senior dry dog list. In case you have welcomed a puppy into your home and the little munchkin is just getting used to a regular diet, take a look at the list of the best puppy food brands. Your sweetheart comes from two different parents, which makes your pups more likely to grow to love dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. The same is expected from its offspring too. Hence, the German Shepherd Chow needs a daily dose of mental and physical stimulation to stay on the right track of things. Aside from doing activities with the dog including running, hiking, jogging and cycling, training is also another way of stimulating since German Shepherd Chows enjoy pleasing their owners. Below are some activities that you should do with the dog: Swimming. Swimming is not only an exciting activity for both the dog and its owner, but it also burns a lot of fuel or energy from the dog. The German Shepherd Chow mix is a friendly dog to people, but it is equally essential for it to recognize other dogs and behave in the same manner towards them too. Dogs, in general, are curious animals, and you can keep their curiosity in check by teaching it how to be around and respect other dogs. The dog will eventually learn new social skills. Scenting or Tracking Games. The German Shepherd parent dog side of the German Shepherd Chow mix was tracking dogs that loved to hunt things. Some games include finding the treat, hide and seek, and find the toy. Obedience Training. There are many ways to train your dog, but it all boils down to giving it commands and following your orders. Any form of training should keep the dog mentally and physically engaged and exhausted too. The Chow Chow parent dog side of the dog is known to be independent due to its stubborn nature and may choose not to obey you when you tell it to do something. Here are some training methods that you could apply to the dog: Puppy Training. The most important part of training the dog as a puppy is giving it your time and company. This should teach your dog the value of your bond with it and will soon acknowledge you as its alpha. Let it play with toys that you give so that it learns that being with you is a rewarding experience. Positive Reinforcement. Rewarding your dog while teaching it commands can come a long way to its relationship with you. You give your dog a reward such as a treat or a toy whenever it successfully responds to your command but gives it nothing until it learns how to react correctly to your call. A German Shepherd Chow mix needs to be taught how to socialize and behave properly around both humans and animals. If the dog would live in a home with children, it should be exposed to them as early as possible so that the dog learns how to tolerate your kids and feel more comfortable around them. They are playful towards any member of the family and is also easy for anyone to get along with as long as the person is introduced to the dog properly and not spontaneously. It is generally a peaceful dog that barks less unless provoked or neglected of attention. Some traits that make German Shepherd Chows great family pets are loyalty, protectiveness, and loving. It is also a perfect watchdog because the dog when faced with a stranger or someone not belonging with the family, becomes wary and can show intimidation as a warning sign to potential intruders. This is not just an energetic dog, but it is also a larger dog breed in size. In terms of lifestyle, the dog does very well with owners who are also active outdoors. The family does not necessarily need to have an energetic attitude towards the dog since it can be stubborn too, but owners should set daily activities that include the dog in their routine. Overall, the German Shepherd Chow mix is an excellent dog breed and family pet to own. With the parents of two dog breeds that are geographically far apart, a combination of the German Shepherd and the Chow Chow seals the deal. This energetic hybrid dog breed is becoming increasingly popular. The Chow Chow German Shepherd is a designer breed. To create a new breed, it was bred from two different pedigrees. Designer dogs are more robust and healthier than their parent breeds. But, poor breeding can have the opposite effect and magnify any existing health problems. Before you buy or adopt a Chow Shepherd, make sure to do extensive research. Type of coat: Thick, dense coat lengths may vary. Shedding: Moderate to heavy with seasonal shedding Lifespan: Approx years Variations in Color: Tan, brown, chocolate, black, silvery grey, and red colors and patterns may favor one parent breed. Notable Features: Large ears and tufts, with ruffled fur around their necks may vary depending upon each dog , thick coat, and a face that resembles a German Shepherd Daily exercise: High exercise requirements, many hours of intense exercise daily Daily Food: You should eat one to two meals of kibble per day for medium-large dogs the recommended amounts will be in your dog food packet. A Chow Chow was first crossed with a German Shepherd by breeders to create a superior breed that could be a great herding dog and a loving companion. Chow Chows are the oldest dog breed. They were used for hunting in ancient China. According to some reports, a Chinese Emperor kept over 5, of these dogs. Queen Victoria loved Chow Chows and even took her beloved bet everywhere she went. German Shepherds are still working dogs today because of their intelligent and protective nature. You will often see them serving in the military and police forces. They are used here as guard dogs, search and rescue, sentries, drug detectors, or messengers. This breed can be a little wary of strangers due to their vigilant and watchful nature. The graceful and beautiful Chow Shepherd is a German Shepherd-like face with a long muzzle. The tail curves upwards and around, much like the Chow Chow. Because they are a cross between two parent breeds that shed, their grooming requirements are high. Daily brushing with a de-shedding tool is necessary for your German Shepherd Chow mix. If the seasons change, you should do it more often as he will shed more. You should also be ready to vacuum your home regularly. Dogs with healthy nails can grow very long if they are not taken care of. Chow Shepherds are loyal to their families and cautious of strangers. Chow Shepherds are similar to German shepherds and can be trained to guard their family members. They also have less separation anxiety than traditional Chow Chows. Chow Shepherds are stubborn, however. Chow Shepherds are intelligent and can make training challenging. Chow Shepherds can sense inconsistency and uncertainty in a trainer and will react accordingly. Chow Shepherds can be socialized with other pets, but it takes effort. Chow Shepherds may not be the right choice for families with small children and pets. Chow Shepherds need mental stimulation as well as physical exercise. Chow Shepherds are very social and love attention. They can be irritable if left alone. They may chew on and destroy furniture or cause damage to it while their owners are away. Purebred dogs are more expensive than mixed breeds. Shepherd Chow mixes can be slightly more expensive than other popular breeds but have had problems with dangerous breeders. Many puppy mills used unsafe breeding methods to produce the Shepherd Chow mix when it first became popular. These puppies were often sick or abandoned at the pound. Although price is not everything, it can be a good indicator that your puppy will likely suffer more from a lower price. However, it is important to do your research and get the license of the breeder before you buy from them. They can be socialized from a young age and will do well. However, it is better to have one of these breeds in your home to teach your children how to respect animals. They will get along well with teens and tweens and love to play together all day. Keep your Shepherd Chow mix on a schedule and keep them from eating too many treats. Usually, they will need only one or two meals per day. Ask your veterinarian what you should feed them each day. Grooming Needs Chow Shepherds require regular grooming due to their dense, thick coats. It is recommended that you brush your Chow Shepherd at least twice a week. Your Chow Shepherd will require more frequent brushing during shedding season. Chow Shepherds should not be used if you have allergies. After bathing your Chow Shepherd, dry it thoroughly. Chow Shepherds love playing in the snow and it keeps them cool in winter. Exercise Needs Chow Shepherds require a lot of exercise. Your dog will be happy and healthy if you give them at least one hour of intense exercise each day. Chow Shepherds are often unable to be left alone so make sure they have access to a safe area. For a Chow Shepherd to stay energized and healthy, running, hiking, and playing fetch and throw are all great options. Other German Shepherd Mixes. Any puppies that qualify as a German Shepherd Mix are a cross between a German Shepherd and another dog breed. In a mixed breed, you can get any mix of characteristics in the parent breeds. German Shepherds tend to be strong-willed, intelligent, playful, and loyal. To get a full idea of what to expect in your puppy, be sure to ask the breeder about the other dog breed in the cross and check out the mother dog in-person to get a general idea about size and temperament. On the German Shepherd side, you have an independent dog with high intelligence and a playful spirit. German Shepherds make great family pets and are born protectors. Because of their protective instinct, they can be suspicious of strangers. Socialization early and often can help curb this suspicion and make them more open to new people and situations. German Shepherds also tend to be loving and have a lively personality. The German Shepherd Mix can have any or all of these characteristics plus any characteristics from the other parent breed in the mix. Before buying a German Shepherd Mix puppy and bringing them home, be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed. If the puppies are being family-raised around children, you should be able to get an idea of how they will do in a family setting that includes children. The German Shepherd is a moderately adaptable working dog that was bred to guard, work, and herd. They do not tend to do well in apartments and are best-suited for houses with yards. GSDs prefer to be with their families and do not like to be alone. They also tend to prefer cooler climates as they are sensitive to heat. With a German Shepherd Mix, you could get a moderately adaptable dog that is just like a purebred German Shepherd. You could also end up with a dog that is more like the other parent breed. Talking with the breeder about the other parent breed can give you a good idea of what to expect. German Shepherds can be prone to elbow and hip dysplasia. You will need to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an idea of any other health concerns to be aware of in your German Shepherd Mix. Health screenings, clearances, and the genetic history of the parents can help allay concerns about potential health conditions. On the German Shepherd side, training and obedience classes are highly recommended for novice dog owners. Although GSDs are highly intelligent, pick up on things quickly, and train fairly easily, they can be stubborn with an independent streak. Regardless of the other parent breed in the cross, you should be prepared to enroll in obedience and training classes with your German Shepherd Mix. The experience will be beneficial to both you and your puppy and will also offer some opportunities for socialization. You will still want to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the cross to get an understanding of what to expect during the training process. Professional grooming a few times a year and the occasional bath is also recommended. Regardless of the coat type, your German Shepherd Mix will need to have their nails trimmed monthly and their teeth brushed regularly. Not every dog will allow you to do this, so try to get a tooth brushing session in at least a few times a week to reduce tartar buildup. This will help prevent dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Plus, it will help cut down on bad breath! German Shepherds tend to have a high activity level. They were bred to run, herd, guard, and protect, so they are used to working and having a job to do. They are definitely not a lazy dog breed! Be sure to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix. You will still want to go in prepared for a high energy dog with the understanding that your German Shepherd Mix puppy may have an activity level closer to the other breed in the cross. If both are high energy dogs breeds, expect to end up with a high energy dog. A German Shepherd is a large dog breed that generally weighs between 55 and 90 pounds. They also usually stand between 22 and 26 inches tall at the shoulders. The other dog breed in the cross could result in a smaller or larger German Shepherd Mix. A German Shepherd generally lives for years. You should be able to expect a similar range in your German Shepherd Mix, but the other dog breed in the cross could affect this range. Featured German Shepherd Mix Article. Because of this, it is important to understand how these dogs were intended to be used before you decide to purchase one. This breed has a very long life expectancy and is not at all prone to being deformed or unhealthy in any way. People around the world tend to think that the German Shepherd is one of the smallest of large breeds. However, contrary to what many people believe, it actually stands up against the most well-known breeds like the Dachshund and the Yorkshire Terrier in terms of size. This is quite surprising to some people who consider the average size of these dogs. Some even consider them to be more slender than the Cocker Spaniel. The life expectancy of the German Shepherd is really quite astonishing. It has been found that in the last century, the lifespan of a male German Shepherd has been around seven years while a female has lived for nine to ten years. This is a very long life span for a dog that only weighs about twenty to twenty-five pounds. Unlike other breeds, the German Shepherd is very intelligent, especially when it comes to learning basic commands such as sit, stay, and come. Aside from the amazing health and longevity, German Shepherd Chow Mix Puppies for Sale also has another great benefit: they are extremely social animals. Since these dogs are social creatures, they are well-suited to live in small apartment homes or apartments. They can easily interact with other pets and humans because they are extremely social creatures. They are gentle and cuddly but can be extremely protective of their family. They will bark when there is an intruder in the house but they do this only when there is an intruder. This makes them ideal dogs for use in hunting. The German Shepherd is an excellent choice for anyone considering a dog of this type. They are very healthy and durable, very responsive to training, and extremely well-behaved. Chihuahuas are common and easy to find, but German Shepherd puppies can be very difficult to locate. A large number of German Shepherd owners prefer to adopt their dogs, but unfortunately, this breed has become exceedingly rare. There are a few things you can do to find German Shepherd puppies for sale. All of these tips will save you money. The first place most people look when they want to find German shepherd-chow mix puppies for sale is a breeder or rescue group. These groups have a list of dogs that have been screened for health problems and temperament so that the general population of dogs would be safe. You must do your homework before choosing a breeder or rescue group to adopt a German Shepherd. You should be aware of the expenses that go along with adopting a German Shepherd and be sure that you can afford the price before making an offer. Another place that can help you locate German Shepherd puppies is at your local animal shelter. Almost all local animal shelters have German Shepherds in their foster care programs. These dogs are there because their owners do not have the funds to purchase another pet. Because the shelters help animals, they tend to have very low-cost pets and German Shepherd mixes are no exception. Adopting a Chihuahua or any other breed of small dog from a shelter will cost you much less than it would cost to purchase a German Shepherd from a breeder. Many owners of German shepherd mixes choose to adopt their dogs from animal shelters instead of going through the time and effort to purchase one from a breeder. While there is nothing wrong with this, you need to be aware that there are several different German Shepherd breeders out there and not all of them will raise good quality dogs. There is also the possibility that shelter dogs could have been exposed to unhealthy conditions. It is your responsibility to research before choosing a shelter to adopt a German shepherd mix puppy from. All shelters should be checked out thoroughly by the proper authorities so as not to make the situation worse for the dog. If you decide to go through with purchasing a German shepherd-chow mix puppy, then you should understand that the breeding process can be very complicated. Not only does the mother have to be ready to take over the entire litter, but she also has to have proper pups to take care of. Although the German Shepherd breed has some excellent temperament, it is important to remember that these dogs were originally intended to be used as herding dogs. They were originally intended to be used for herding cattle. This means they were originally used for sheepherders and farmers. A good way to help you understand the history of the German shepherd is to do some online research. You can learn about the origin of the breed, the original breeding methods used to develop the current dogs, and how they are being raised today. Knowing all of this information will help you better understand the German shepherd mix for sale. The more you know about the breed, the more likely it is that you will make the best possible choice when purchasing one for your household. One thing to keep in mind when searching for German shepherd-chow mix puppies for sale is that many of the current owners of these dogs no longer want them. Part of this may have to do with the type of work that they are getting. Many of these dogs were used as herding dogs and had to be raised in large stables to help them exercise and live up to their breeding standards. Some of these dogs were sold because their owners could not keep up with the expenses associated with keeping such a large dog. TherSome lucky ones will up with a large enough purebred chow that they can maintain their current lifestyle while also making sure they are getting a great companion dog. German shepherd dogs mix puppies for sale come in a variety of colors and patterns and should appeal to the majority of dog owners. The large size of some of these dogs combined with their beautiful coats can make them a popular option for many households. Just remember that owning a German shepherd is not something to take lightly. You must take care of these dogs properly or they will not perform the way they were designed to. If you are willing to put the time and effort into finding the right German shepherd-chow mix for sale, your family and the dogs you bring home will benefit from the wonderful companionship you receive. Share this:.

If you notice any symptoms or changes to their appetite, mood, or energy levels, make an appointment with your vet. As a large mixed breed, New Sheps may tend to grow and develop rapidly. This can cause bone and joint issues in the long run. This is often a higher quality food that is lower in calories. It is important for this food to contain high-quality ingredients and to be free of any fillers, preservatives, or additives that will unnecessarily add calories to the food. Always measure out the appropriate amount for each meal. As a puppy, it is best to restrict treats and snacks too. Even as a puppy, your New Shep will require regular exercise. As mentioned, though, these pups are at higher risk of bone and joint issues since they grow so rapidly from the age of four to seven months. You need to be careful with how you exercise your puppy for this period. Steer clear of hard pavements and surfaces — anything that can be tough on their bones or joints. In particular, prevent them from jumping around on such surfaces. It is fine for them to play on grass and similarly soft surfaces. If your pup takes after their Newfoundland parent, they will love to swim, so this is an activity that you can try. Swimming is a great way for your pup to get a workout without putting too much stress on their joints. For high-energy dogs, break this up into two sessions. A brisk walk is the easiest physical activity. Frisbee and fetch are great for keeping things interesting. A good way to decide how much exercise your dog needs is to give them about 30 minutes and take note of their energy levels. If they seem content and not overly tired, you have hit the right time limit. If your pup still seems to have a lot of energy, slowly increase their playtime until they are satisfied. You should be aware that some New Sheps can be a bit lazy when it comes to exercise. Despite this, your dog should get a minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity a day. You may need to be a bit firm about taking them outside. If your pooch is on the smaller side and takes after their German Shepherd more, they may also enjoy agility training. On the other hand, make sure that you schedule a regular swimming session if your New Shep takes after their Newfoundland parent a bit more. You can expect quite a bit of shedding with this mixed breed. The best way to minimize this is to brush them regularly. Make it a point to brush your dog at least three times a week to reduce loose fur around the house. You will need to use a slicker brush and an undercoat rake as your dog has a double coat. It will make all the difference. If your New Shep has a coat that is more similar to Newfoundland, you should be aware that it will attract dirt, grit, and burrs. This means that your dog needs to be brushed whenever you take them out to a wooded area or a dog park. Failing to do so can leave the fur matted and dirty. Your dog will likely blow their coat a couple of times a year and the shedding will reach peak levels at this point. During this period, you should brush them out every day and use the undercoat rake more regularly. You will also have to add a de-shedding brush to the routine. Once every month or two is more than enough unless your dog gets dirty. Bathing them too often can dry out their skin and damage their coat. It should be noted that their coat can be rather overwhelming to the groom. This is why owners will often hire groomers to handle this task. They are best suited to cool or cold climates. They should always be kept indoors when the sun is out. It is best if they are close to a fan or air conditioning. Keep a close eye on your pooch to make sure that they are as cool as possible. Avoid taking your dog out during the hottest parts of the day as they can overheat quickly. Give them exercise early in the morning or later in the evening. New Sheps are far too big for apartments. They need a lot of space so they will work better in larger homes. In smaller spaces, they may be prone to knocking things over. If your New Shep is of the high energy variety, though, having access to a yard can help them to burn off some excess energy. These dogs love human companionship , so never leave them alone in the yard for a long period. Instead, give them the option of coming in and out so that they can spend time with you when they want. Newfoundland German Shepherds are highly trainable. They have a great work ethic and are intelligent to pick up a wide variety of commands and instructions. You should start their training from the moment you bring your pup home. They can be difficult to control as they get bigger so starting young can help to avoid a lot of issues. These dogs are people pleasers so use positive reinforcement to get them to learn tricks more readily. You will need to find a breeder that specializes in this particular mix. Look for one that has tracked the health of both parent breeds, going back several generations. This can help to prevent various diseases in your pup. This is a rare mixed breed and is a designer one to boot. You may not always find one in a shelter, but looking at German Shepherd or Newfoundland-specific shelters may help. These dogs can grow as tall as 28 inches and weigh over lbs and might need to be classified as an extra-large breed. They are excellent family dogs and are great with children and other pets. This wraps up our guide to Newfoundland German Shepherds. With this information, you can now decide whether this pup is a good fit for you. 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. They should be fed about 3 cups several times throughout the day with a high-quality kibble. Because of their large size, they will not be as suitable for apartments, but they love being in the water , which will allow them to burn off some of their excess energy. The Newfoundland part of the New Shep makes them excellent at water sports, hauling such as sleds or small carts and they have the potential to become exceptional therapy dogs. The undercoat tends to be dense and will be prone to tangles and matting. Particular attention should be paid during the spring and the summer when they start shedding. Dog skin differs from human skin and using the wrong shampoo might create skin problems for the dog. The ears of the New Shep might be erect like the German Shepherd or folded over like the Newfoundland. The Newfoundland is also susceptible to cataracts but also abnormal eyelid and lower eyelid droop. The vet will run allergy, skin and eye tests to screen your dog for any possible inherited health conditions from its parents. Your vet will run hip, elbow and cardiac tests as well as DNA tests and a full physical exam on your dog. Your New Shep is a hybrid, which means it might inherit some of these conditions from its parents, but it is less likely. Male vs. Female Female and male dogs tend to differ in size, with the female usually smaller and lighter. The male can be 25—28 inches and weigh — pounds and the female might be 23—26 inches and weigh 80— pounds. As previously mentioned, these dogs can actually weigh as much as pounds. Obviously, female and male dogs also differ biologically. If you decide to have your female dog spayed, the surgery is a little more challenging than neutering the male dog. This comes at a slightly higher expense and a longer recovery time for the dog. Some believe that there are personality differences between males and females. Generally speaking, males are thought of as being more aggressive than females. In contrast, the females are thought to be more affectionate. However, there are debates on this subject. The most important thing to consider in the male versus female dog debate is that the primary source of their personalities will come from how you train and socialize them when they are puppies. Final Thoughts When you combine the intelligence and the energy of the German Shepherd with the calm and affectionate Newfoundland, you might just end up with the perfect dog for your family. The New Shep is a beautiful, large dog that loves the water and will make an excellent watchdog but without the aggression. New Shep puppies are not easy to find so you might want to begin by speaking to breeders of German Shepherds and Newfoundland dogs. Attending dog shows and talking to rescue societies as well as local and national dog clubs could also prove helpful. Last of all, posting messages on social media will help you spread the world to a much bigger audience. The New Shep requires a fairly vigorous brushing routine, but otherwise, you will end up with a loyal and loving gentle giant that will become a beloved member of your family. See Also:. Final Thoughts The question may arise — if people have carefully perfected purebred dogs, like German Shepherds and Newfoundlands, why do they need to mix these breeds now? The German Shepherd Newfoundland mix is not bred accidentally, of course. The answer is that the purpose was to receive the dogs with the best features inherited from the two breeds, such as a larger working potential and a calmer temperament. That is the answer to your question. The new dog hybrid is also called a New Shep or the Newfie Shepherd, and it is a designer dog whose characteristics are more predictable than those of other mixes. After reading this article, you will be able to decide whether this dog is right for you. Characteristics of the Crossbreed If you are interested in a New Shep, learn what characteristic features it inherits from its predecessors — German Shepherds and Newfoundlands. German Shepherds look intimidating and bark loudly. They are highly intelligent and become loyal companions to their beloved owners. They are also pretty trainable, eager to please the owner, and have a strong working drive. Shepherds are multipurpose workers suitable for doing jobs in the police, military, and guidance services. Guarding is also a good job for them because they are fierce and alert. Newfoundlands are much bigger and stronger than Shepherds. Though, they are also much calmer. The abundance of fur and big bones make them look impressive. They are gentle and sweet, but they also make perfect working dogs to carry out emergency services and rescues, especially those that include swimming in icy water. Rescuing children and adults from drowning is the job they have become well-known for. Nowadays, Newfoundlands are kept as home pets. The German Shepherd Newfoundland mix puppy is the offspring of crossbreeding that displays the best characteristics of German Shepherds and Newfoundland dogs. It is larger than a Shepherd but much calmer and more affectionate. It is more open and patient to the presence of strangers, and more welcoming to other animals. Nevertheless, the New Shep has an outstanding work drive and very strong protective instincts. Appearance Like in other dog breeds, males and females differ in size. The male is usually inches cm in height, and they weigh pounds kg. Females are usually smaller and lighter. They can grow as tall as inches cm , and their weight is as much as pounds kg. Some dogs can grow very big and weigh up to pounds 91 kg. The typical Newfoundland German Shepherd mix has medium-length hair, and the double coat is immensely thick. The colors of the coat may vary a lot. These hybrid dogs can be solid black, sable, or even liver, blue, and white. However, the most common color after the GSD is tan with a black saddle. Some crosses may also inherit the color from their Newfoundland parent, and their coat may be brown or gray. The other characteristic features inherited from the two breeds depend on the gene mix. They can do well with children of all ages and people who are not a part of the family. These dogs are pretty approachable, though they may look intimidating because of their massiveness. New Sheps are amazing family dogs without the aggressive tendencies German Shepherds are usually prone to. They are very careful and patient with young kids. If this dog is properly socialized, it can get along well with other household pets. However, it can be wary of other dogs, especially if they are of the same sex. These dogs are very strong and fast, despite their big size. So, they can be excellent herders and work successfully in criminal apprehension for the police. They are also agile swimmers due to the feature inherited from their Newfoundland parents. The mix of German Shepherds and Newfoundlands produces more admirable personalities. While German Shepherds are alert and courageous, though prone to fearfulness, aggression, and neurotic spans if bred and socialized improperly, Newfoundlands are more loyal and selfless, courageous, calm, and patient. The mix most often displays the sweet and docile nature of Newfoundland. While being trained, New Sheps can be more stubborn and need more repetitions and consistency than their German Shepherd ancestor. This trait is also inherited from Newfoundlands and should be taken into account. It is longer than in purebred Newfoundlands but shorter than in German Shepherds. The reason is bigger because all large dog breeds tend to live shorter. The puppies are mostly born healthy, and this mix generally is not prone to severe health issues if it is bred responsibly and then well-cared and fed. The German Shepherd tends to get such minor issues as hot spots, allergies, perianal fistulas, and cataracts. The Newfoundland also tends to have cataracts as well as eye issues such as abnormal eyelid and lower eyelid droop. So, all these conditions can be inherited by your mix-bred puppy from its parents. As for serious health problems, the German Shepherd can suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia, bone inflammation, heart disease, fungal infections, and gastric torsion. You will need to have hip, elbow, and cardiac testing, DNA tests, and a complete physical examination for your puppy with your experienced vet to be sure about its health condition. Having the appropriate health test certificates from your reputable breeder is also great. Feeding and Care Since a Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a very large dog breed, it requires a special, high-quality diet meant for big dogs. You should give it 3 cups of kibble at least twice per day. You need to talk to your veterinarian if you have any concerns about weight loss or gain. Your doggy may need nutritious supplements or more exercise. You may also feed your hybrid puppy with a homemade raw diet, but it should be properly balanced and high-quality. Remember that human food is inappropriate for your dog, and human supplements do not suit it, either. As for taking care of the New Shep, it needs a lot of grooming. The immensely thick coats require brushing on a daily basis. The undercoat is very dense, so if left without care, it can form tangles and get matted. Brushing is especially important in springs and early autumns, when shedding is excessive. Do not bathe your dog too often. Bathing is necessary to remove heavy debris and dirt but not more often than once in two months. The special dog shampoo should be applied to avoid bad skin irritations. The ears can be either erect or folded, depending on the gene inherited either from a German Shepherd or Newfoundland parent. However, you need to clean them carefully in both cases, especially when the ears are floppy. You should also trim its nails and brush its teeth regularly. Ask for expert advice from your veterinarian if you are unsure how to do it correctly. So, if you live in a small apartment, this dog is not appropriate for you. You should at least walk with your doggy for about 60 minutes per day and play a lot with it. These dogs love being in the water, and that allows them to burn off their excess energy. So, swimming is an essential part of exercising. The doggy will enjoy hiking and biking with you, too. The dog also needs a lot of mental stimulation, including puzzle toys and enrichment games. The trainability of the German Shepherd and Newfoundland mix is amazing. These dogs are incredibly affectionate with their owners and always ready to follow all the commands. They are playful and patient, with strong guarding instincts, alert to threats but open to the presence of strangers. However, they can be pretty obstinate sometimes. So, you need reward-based and persistent training sessions for your doggy from a very early age. These dogs can become outstanding search and rescue helpers and are also great at obedience training and agility sessions. They are perfect at water sports and hauling sleds and small carts will be appropriate for them. They also can become exceptional therapy dogs due to their patience and affectionate attitudes toward people. It makes up a perfect family dog with strong guarding and protective skills. It is intelligent, patient, calm, and affectionate. The dog can be a remarkable companion, rescuer, and hauler. However, be careful to socialize and train it properly. If you have decided to adopt the New Shep, you will get the best friend and amazing companion if it is properly socialized. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. They will require plenty of space and humans that are strong enough to handle their size and weight. The color will depend on which parent it takes after. Most crosses that take after the GSD will don the famous tan coat with a black saddle. Other common coat colors include solid black and sable , while rarer GSD colors include liver , blue , and white. Similarly, crosses that inherit their coat from the Newfie parent are likely to be solid black, brown, or gray. Grooming Because the German Shepherd Newfoundland mix tends to have very dense undercoats, keeping them properly groomed involves a thorough brushing several times a week. This may become a daily requirement twice a year when they blow their coats and shed very heavily. Baths, however, can be done as infrequently as every 6 to 8 weeks. As with any other dog, regular toothbrushing is an essential part of keeping the Newfie-GSD mix properly groomed. Maintaining proper oral hygiene will keep odors at a minimum and will contribute greatly to good health and longevity. Strength Both German Shepherds and Newfoundlands are strong dogs, so their offspring will definitely be strong as well. Just seeing their size and musculature gives you a good idea of the strength of these dogs. This is a critical part of what makes them excellent working dogs. Speed Despite their size, Newfoundland-German Shepherd crosses are surprisingly nimble on their paws. Additionally, mutts that take after the Newfie parent are especially agile swimmers. They need lots of exercise to keep them on their best behavior. At a minimum, these dogs would need 30 minutes of moderate-to-intense physical activity per day — however many of these mixes will need more especially in their younger years. Among the activities they are likely to enjoy are hiking and swimming. Because of their heritage as working dogs, Newfoundland-German Shepherd mixes also require lots of mental stimulation. Enrichment games, puzzle toys , and regular training sessions will keep them sharp and happy. Trainability Among the best traits of the German Shepherd Newfoundland mix is that they are incredibly sweet and affectionate with their family. They are also playful and patient with young children as well as tolerant of other animals in the household. Despite their seemingly docile temperament, the Newfoundland-German Shepherd mix has strong guarding instincts. They are alert to threats and are capable of engaging if needed. However, they are more open to the presence of strangers than purebred GSDs. Health Newfie-GSDs are generally healthy dogs. However, their sheer size and weight make them more prone to bone and joint issues like elbow and hip dysplasia. Ideally, both parents would be screened for such conditions before being allowed to mate. Make sure to clean them regularly and keep them dry. Lifespan Newfie-GSDs are expected to live between 9 and 14 years old. Nevertheless, Newfoundland-GSD crosses often surpass this average lifespan when they maintain a healthy weight throughout their life. A high-quality, balanced diet is also essential to longevity. The AKC Canine Partners Program enables mixed breeds to register with the club and participate in various sports and canine events. This includes the eligibility to compete for titles in such activities as Agility , Diving Dogs , and Flyball. As far as crossbreeds go, the Newfoundland-German Shepherd mix is not very popular. That may have to do with the fact that each of these two breeds is more valuable as purebreds. However, it requires a dedicated handler willing to take on the responsibilities of such a large and active dog. Nevertheless, they can be an excellent dog to have, whether as a working companion or as a family pet. German Shepherd mixes come in many different forms and have many unique characteristics. The Newfoundland dog is loving, gentle, and are also famous for their loyalty and strength. Whereas, the German Shephard is recognized for its protective nature and courage despite being loyal. Now let us see, what are the traits of the mixed breed of these two dogs, the Newfoundland German shepherd mix. Newfoundland German shepherd mix physical appearance: The Newfoundland German Shepherd cross is a giant, sturdy and athletic dog with a strong and heavy bone structure. Both the parent dogs have strong and straight backs usually, whereas in some cases, the back of German Shephard is slightly sloped whereas that of Newfoundland is leveled. The chest of Newfoundland is deep while the skull is broad. Looking at the muzzle, it is more tapered and long in the case of a German Shepherd. Both the breeds have commonly pointed ears and brown eyes. The nose of the New Shep Breed dog is either brown or black. In short, the Newfoundland dog German Shepherd Mix can have traits of any of its parents. Lastly, the average lifespan of the dog is 10 years. Newfoundland German shepherd cross temperament and personality: Mostly, the New Shep hybrids are a combination of the personality of the parent breeds so, both of them are good-mannered as well as confident. If not trained properly, they can develop aggressive and anxious temperament so, train them patiently. They are playful and happy among children, but their immense size can harm them so, keep the younger ones away. They are fun, calm, and easy with the family members as well. Although the dog is intelligent, you will surely have to put some effort to train this dog. Newfoundland German shepherd mix for sale: There are two options for having a purebred New Shep Breed dog, one you can buy it from a reputable breeder, and the second adopt it from a shelter, former owner, or rescue. But it is not always the truth so, be sure about the health and lineage of your dog before purchasing it from a breeder making false claims. The only difference between these two methods is that adoption will cost you very little as compared to purchasing it. Newfoundland German shepherd mix puppy coat: The Newfoundland German shepherd mix puppy has a slightly dense coat that is wavy in texture and medium in length. The coat of this dog breed is more likely to catch dust, debris, and other particles. Also, their hair gets tangles frequently and heavy shedding is common in New Shep breed dogs. So, purchase a de-shedder, comb, brush, and de-matter for maintaining the coat of the dog. There are many possibilities of the coat color including sable, black, white, blue, brown, grey, cream, red, and silver. Newfoundland dog German shepherd mix training: If you have a good experience with dogs, then start training them with patience after purchasing it. As the Newfoundland and German Shepherd Mix dog is intelligent, so they pick up things easily. Be aware of the little obstinate nature of the dog and handle it with patience rather than behaving harshly or aggressively. If you are unable to control and train the dog, then take it or group training sessions. Also, hiring a personal trainer will help you a lot in this regard but then get ready to pay a little more training price than usual. Newfoundland and German shepherd mix grooming: As discussed, the coat of the Newfoundland German shepherd mix dog is dense and tangles easily so, daily brushing is necessary to maintain the look of the dog. Usually, the coat sheds in the summer and spring season, so maintaining the coat in these seasons is a challenge. Excessive or cheap shampoo can damage the skin of your dog resulting in skin irritation so, only give it a bath when there is a dire need to remove the dirt. Keep on clipping the nails once a month and visit a professional groomer 3 to 6 times a year. Make sure you are providing a hygienic and quality diet to your dog. Usually, a New shep dog eats 3 cups of kibble every day. Well, if you observe any disturbance in the health of the dog, immediately consult your vet. New shep breed health concerns: Just like every other dog breed, purebred or mix, the New shep dog also has some common health concerns. Some of the minor concerns include bloating, gastric dilation volvulus, subaortic stenosis, degenerative myelopathy, perianal fistulas, and hip or elbow dysplasia. Whereas if we talk about some serious health conditions that can be fatal for the new shep breed dog, then these include pyoderma, mitral valve dysplasia, urolithiasis, pannus, cherry eye, cataracts, exocrine pancreatic, footpad disorder, insufficiency, progressive renal atrophy, persistent right aortic arch and many more. To prevent these conditions, keep a healthy track of the diet and physical activity of your dog. Male and female Newfoundland German shepherd mix puppies for sale: The height of a male Newfoundland dog German shepherd mix is 25 to 28 inches whereas that of a female dog is 23 to 26 inches. The weight of a female New Shep dog is 75 to 95 lbs while a male dog weighs 95 to lbs. The temperament of the dog depends on socialization and training rather than gender. Also, spaying of the female New shep dog is a bit complicated than neutering the male dog as spaying requires a little more time to recover. January 14, Fancy a dog with the smarts of the impressive German Shepherd and the sweetness of the gentle Newfoundland? What about the Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix? Why not learn a little more about the Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix? If you are a fan of big dogs, with big hearts then a Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix might just be the dog for you! Origins of the Newfoundland Newfoundland dogs have long been relied on by Canadian fishermen to help on fishing boats. They would bring in the nets of fish and pull them to the markets on carts. Their strength and natural swimming ability also earned them a reputation as lifeguards. They are skilled at saving people in trouble in the water. The first German Shepherd showed up in America in and by , the first German Shepherd club has been established. At this point, it is worth addressing the controversy which surrounds the purebreds versus mutts. The Mixed Breed Controversy Advocates of purebred dogs claim the size, temperament, and health of a purebred can be reliably predicted. Moreover, their lineage can be traced back for many generations. They also assert that supporting purebred dog breeders encourages the betterment of breeds. This is mainly because breeders will ensure the characteristics and abilities inherent in purebreds can be improved upon and preserved for generations to come. On the other hand, advocates of mixed breeds voice concern that inbreeding and exaggeration of certain physical characteristics in purebreds often result in dogs with serious health problems. They point out that breed standards, which dictate the desirable physical attributes of purebred dogs, can at times have more to do with aesthetics than the welfare of the dog. This has led to dogs with breathing difficulties, back and joint problems, and even difficulty giving birth. Many believe hybrid dogs are healthier since they are purportedly less predisposed to inherited conditions than purebreds. Indeed, one study has suggested that dogs with genetically diverse backgrounds are healthier and appear to live longer than their purebred counterparts. Here are some that stand out: The actions of one Newfoundland may have had a hand in how history played out. In a Newfoundland reportedly saved the life of none other than Napoleon Bonaparte when he went overboard while fleeing the island of Elba. Rin Tin Tin starred in 27 films throughout his life. In the end, the Academy decided the award must be given to a human. Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix Appearance The Newfoundland stands between 26 and 28 inches at the shoulders and weighs between and lbs. They are sturdy and strong in build and appearance. Their thick double coat is water resistant and comes in black, brown, grey, and black and white. White patches are the only markings seen in this breed. The German Shepherd stands 22 to 26 inches at the shoulders and can weigh from 50 to 90 lbs. While strong and muscular in build, the German Shepherd also has great agility. They have a thick, wiry outer coat which comes in variations of black, tan, solid black and sable. This coat needs regular grooming. Both dogs are large, so a mix of the two is going to be a large dog. The coloring could be any combination of the parent breeds markings. Owning a dog of this size may bring with it challenges in terms of caring and housing for your dog. But the Newfoundland wins big points for being so agreeable. Temperament-wise, the German Shepherd is quite different from the Newfoundland. Its definitive qualities are loyalty, intelligence, and courage. Perhaps the greatest evidence of this is their status as the preferred breed for law enforcement and military organizations. In the family setting, a German Shepherd will make a loyal protector. As such, they tend to remain a little reserved when introduced to strangers. The sight of a German Shepherd may incite fear amongst many, and they have a reputation for being good watchdogs. A study published in found that German Shepherds did score higher than other breeds when it came to dog on dog aggression as well as aggression toward strangers. In terms of aggression towards owners, however, you have more to fear if you live with a Dachshund than a German Shepherd. A mix of these breeds could produce a dog that takes after one breed more than the other. However, the sweet nature of the Newfoundland could balance out the more serious and protective tendencies of the German Shepherd. Both these dogs are large and powerful. The German Shepherd is by nature a little wary of strangers and protective of their human family. Socialization, which involves exposing your puppy to as many new situations and experiences as possible, is an absolute must if you decide to adopt a mix of these two dogs. German Shepherds are active, intelligent dogs. It is important that you keep them busy and engaged mentally. Both of these dogs enjoy regular exercise. Both breeds enjoy canine sports such as agility, dock jumping, and herding. Crossing with a Newfoundland might reduce such problems. Ultimately, checking that their parents did not suffer from these issues before choosing your puppy is the wisest course of action. Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix Health Both these breeds are susceptible to elbow and hip dysplasia. The German Shepherd Club of America does not require any further health tests. However, as we mentioned, German Shepherds are prone to conformational problems. The Newfoundland is susceptible to heart problems and cystinuria, a condition in which stones form in the urinary system. Both dogs can be expected to live up to 10 years. If your puppy has taken after their Newfoundland parent and has floppy ears, check them regularly for infection. As with any breed, feed your dog a well-balanced, high-quality diet to keep them healthy. Being big dogs, make sure you have the budget for this. Both dog breeds have thick coats, so they will have to be brushed regularly even when they are not shedding. In shedding season, these bushings may need to be daily. The combination of these two breeds can make great a family dog. Taking into consideration the size, power, and temperament of the parent breeds, however, socialization and appropriate training is an absolute must. Ideally, your family should have enough time and space to devote to training and exercising this mixed breed. Rescuing a Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix If you are looking to rescue one of these dogs, check local rescue groups dedicated to the parent breeds. Sometimes these groups will help find homes for crosses as well as purebreds. Otherwise, check at your local shelter. Get as much information as you can about the background of the dog, as they might have some special requirements if they have been abused or neglected in the past. How to Find a Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix puppy The growing popularity of mixes can be good news for the general health of dogs. However, some unscrupulous individuals have taken advantage of the demand, and view the production of puppies as nothing more than a way to make a profit. While it may seem to be the easiest option, getting your new puppy from a pet shop is not recommended. Sadly, these puppies have more often than not been bred in puppy farms. Dogs kept in puppy farms are housed in appalling conditions and often suffer untreated injuries and health problems. Not only are they often neglected physically, but mentally these dogs are deprived of the chance to socialize and play. First and foremost, make sure you can meet the parents of your dog, and see where they have been raised in person. Care needs to be taken with training and socialization due to the size of both breeds, and the protective traits of the German Shepherd. This dog will have a thick coat which will shed. Pros The Newfoundland German Shepherd Mix will be loyal to their family and eager to please loved ones. This mix is great for those who like swimming and the outdoors. The kind nature of the Newfoundland mixed with the intelligence of the German Shepherd is an appealing combination. Similar Mixed Breeds and Purebred Dogs. No one knows for sure who first came up with the idea to breed a German Shepherd with a Newfoundland or exactly why. Experimentation with the breeding probably occurred a few times before anyone came up with a clear-cut reason or thought it was a good idea. We know the German Shepherd originated in Germany from generic herding dogs. A show dog named Hektor became the foundation type for the breed, further developed by Max von Stephanitz beginning in the late s. According to German Shepherd Rescue Elite , Stephanitz was a former student of Berlin Veterinary College and highly interested in how conformation correlated with working proficiency. Most experts agree that Newfoundland originated from native dogs of the Newfoundland coast and Labrador, in Canada, but are uncertain if the black wolf, Great Pyrenees, or others had the greatest influence. DNA confirms the fact that St. A well-established Newfie type was apparent by , represented by massive black dogs that had huge heads. George Cartwright officially named the Newfoundland in , and the English further modernized the breed beginning in the s. What is a designer dog? Undoubtedly clear to most, not every mixed dog is a designer dog. The marketing of specific breed combinations enables owners of these hybrids to ironically attain an elevated social status among their peers. In historical times, starting with the Victorian era in the s , many societies linked superiority with smaller genetic pools. Owning a purebred dog was equivalent to privilege. Until the advent of what would become the designer dog craze, purebred dogs remained at the pinnacle of desirability and personal worth in many societies. The appeal of certain purebred dogs, like French Bulldogs and Pugs, will probably never wane, but designer dogs have given owners another avenue to climb the social ladder. Generally, the name of the hybrid will be a blend of the two separate breed names. The Labradoodle was the first such designer dog, matching a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle in , and the New Shep arrived much later. The New Shep remains much less common than some of the other designer dogs. Many early designer dogs originated intending to introduce the hypoallergenic low-shedding hair of the Poodle to breeds with desirable charms like an easy-going steadfast temperament, unusual charisma, or unique coat color. Later, dog lovers sought to improve the health issues of breeds they loved such as the English Bulldog. Purely speculative, the New Shep may have come about to smooth some aggressive and neurotic tendencies of the Shepherd and increase the lifespan and add novelty colors and trainability to the Newfie. What makes the New Shep unpredictable? New Shep puppies have a greater number of standard characteristics in common with each other than alternative German Shepherd crosses because there are more of them. We can judge probability based on how the majority of current litters turn out. That being said, first-generation genetics is still largely a roll of the dice. Many features, like personality and temperament, are more unpredictable than coat length and size. Individuals inherit some qualities as a straightforward recessive or dominant single gene. Other genes, like those for coat color, are multiple and incompletely dominant. Separate breed standards tell the tale of the Newfie Shepherd Mix. Most people know what a purebred German Shepherd or Newfoundland looks like. The German Shepherd, with her elegant good looks, has a dome-shaped forehead with a narrow, somewhat square muzzle, a long back sloping down from the shoulders to the hips , brown slightly-slanted eyes, large open upright ears, and a thick tail. Classic colors are tan or red with a black saddle and black mask. German Shepherds can also be silver and black, sable, or solid colors like red, blue , black , or white. Where Shepherds are solidly-built and athletic, Newfoundlands are stately and powerful. One of their most remarkable features is their partially webbed feet, which contribute to their legendary swimming ability. Newfoundlands can sport the colors solid black, brown, white and black, known as Landseer, and, less commonly, gray. New Sheps range from 23 to 28 inches tall and average to pounds. The range, however, can be from to over pounds. New Shep dogs sport an array of colors such as black and tan, solid black, gray, silver, blue, or red, black and white, or sable. What is hybrid vigor? Hybrid vigor, despite numerous misconceptions, does not necessarily imply increased health and vitality. It refers, however, to improved biological functions which usually influence size and fertility. According to the Centre for Small Animal Studies in Suffolk , hybrids tend to have a higher lifespan than purebred dogs except for certain toy breeds. Moreover, any comparison between dogs illustrates a smaller size generally means a longer life. Not all crossbreeding results in hybrid vigor. New Sheps are frequently larger than their parents. It is not uncommon to see Shepherd Newfoundland mixes that are pounds. Giant size likely accounts for a shortened longevity. What kind of personality can you expect? German Shepherds are also courageous, loyal, affectionate with their families , and protective. Poor breeding allows fearfulness, aggression , or neurotic tendencies to enter specific German Shepherd lines. The breed standard for the Newfoundland calls for a sweet disposition to define her, more important than any other character trait. An irresponsibly bred Newfie can be fearful or aggressive. A German Shepherd Newfie cross should shine as a family companion with a loyal, sweet, and affectionate nature. Most puppies exhibit the calm and docile natures of the Newfoundland. New Sheps tend to get along with children and other dogs, especially with effective socialization by you the owner. Shepherd-Newfoundland hybrids may inherit some dog aggression from the GSD and same-sex aggression from the Newfie. Again, frequent exposure to other dogs as a puppy will help prevent inter-dog aggression from cropping up later in life. Does New Sheps have high intelligence and trainability? According to Dogbreedslist. The ranking includes purebred dogs. Both breeds are amenable to consistent and early training. The German Shepherd excels at learning quickly and obediently. She is considered one of the most trainable dogs. Newfoundlands demonstrate an uncanny instinct for the prevention of drowning and knowing how to save people from hazardous situations on land. However, they tend to be independent and need repetition to pick up simple commands. How much exercise does a New Shep need? Hybrids inherit the more laid-back demeanor of the Newfie, not nearly as exuberant as the Shepherd. They require moderate to low exercise. The winter cold is not likely to be a concern for your New Shep. Newfoundland and Shepherd mixes are also sure to enjoy swimming. Some training and walking services suggest 14 miles per week and an hour every day of exercise for your New Shep, although your dog will probably thrive on half that. Grooming requirements depend on coat thickness Both the Newfoundland and German Shepherd have thick undercoats. They have two large molts a year, dropping copious tufts of hair during these times. The Newfoundland requires daily brushing to prevent matting of his fleecy down. The rare Shepherd has long hair without an undercoat. Both dogs should get a consistent bath to eliminate odors and resistant dirt. German Shepherds are not particularly averse to water, but most Newfoundlands love it. New Sheps can possess a variety of coat types. Most of them will have a medium to long moderately thick wavy outer coat with dense underfur. Some have short hair and others have thinner hair than usual for either breed. A few dogs have straight hair while others appear to have loose curls in areas. Brushing is crucial for the same reasons as with the parent breeds. Will your New Shep be a good watchdog? While the German Shepherd is renowned for guard abilities, the Newfoundland has always had a more utilitarian heritage. Since biting and aggression is so contrary to rescuing people from the water, the Newfie has minimal guarding tendencies. You are pretty lucky if your Newfie barks to announce a stranger. You can expect a Newfoundland German Shepherd mix to be friendly and even affectionate to guests. They likely will make better watchdogs than Newfies, barking if sensing a disturbance. Certain families of dogs, as mentioned above, can produce New Sheps with the same undesirable characteristics of the responsible parent, such as fear-biting, uncharacteristic aggression, and shyness. Unfortunately, ailments plague all purebred dogs. While trying to improve a breed through hybridization is a noble endeavor, the reality often falls short. Improvement in the puppies is only possible when exercising a strict selection process with the parents. Some breeders do not adhere to strict breeding criteria, whether involved with purebreds or designer dogs. Moreover, potential owners may not know what kinds of problems their new dog may be susceptible to or what tests may pertain to particular breeds. Still, another factor is dogs inherit some disorders like hip dysplasia, across multiple genes While a few of the sources we ran across cited Shepherd Newfie hybrids as having no health issues, this is probably not entirely accurate. Because of their parentage, we must theorize that New Sheps are vulnerable to the following health issues, discussed by Science Direct and PetMD. According to the Veterinary DNA Center , Newfoundlands can exhibit cystinuria at the exceptionally young age of six months. What fun activities can you do with your New Shep? German Shepherds may excel at agility trials and obedience challenges, like Shutzhund, but Newfoundlands are better suited for hauling competitions and water sports. Both can make excellent therapy dogs and search and rescue workers. Some New Sheps may be more athletic than Newfies. Depending on their size, a hybrid will probably show the greatest promise in activities similar to what a Newfoundland does best. With a German Shepherd-Newfoundland hybrid, you are likely to get what looks like a giant black or black and tan Shepherd. His ears may be erect or semi-prick. Your New Shep will have intelligence and trainability approaching the Shepherd with a slightly stubborn or willful streak. She will greet strangers and friends alike with friendly enthusiasm but in a contained manner. She may bark at intruders but will likely blend in happily with children and other animals in your household. Your Newfie Shepherd cross may take to the water like a sea lion and may even have webbed feet. The only drawbacks are a medium tendency to drool, heat sensitivity, her tremendous size, and her thick coat. This German Shepherd Newfoundland mix is pretty close to one of the varieties you could see in a typical litter. The puppy is not yet sporting his adult coat but looks like he will end up red fawn or sable with a black mask. You can also gauge youth by how much higher his hindquarters are than his shoulders, an indication of a growth spurt. The combination of these two breeds results in a dog with an outstanding temperament and robust physical strength. This sturdy breed is known for its loyalty, protectiveness and obedience. They are also intelligent, eager to learn and make great family pets. Newfoundland and German Shepherd — Breeding History The Newfoundland is a large working dog breed originating from the island of Newfoundland, off the coast of Canada. They were originally bred for helping fishermen with tasks such as hauling in nets and catching fish that had escaped from the nets. They are also known for their water rescue abilities and were used extensively during the 19th century by lifeboat crews. The German Shepherd is a medium to large-sized breed of dog that originated in Germany in the late 19th century. They were originally bred for herding and guarding sheep. German Shepherds are one of the most popular breeds of dog in the world and are highly prized for their loyalty and working ability. They were first used as police dogs back in in Gelsenkirchen, Germany. They are well known over the years as highly effective police and military dogs due to their loyalty, obedience, and intelligence. The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a relatively new crossbreed that has become increasingly popular in recent years. Known as adaptable designer dogs, the mix of these two breeds result in a dog with an outstanding temperament and robust physical strength. The most common reason people mix these two breeds is to take advantage of the best traits of each. Their characteristics will vary depending on which parent breed they take after more, but they will typically have the long head and muzzle of a German Shepherd combined with the thick coat and webbed feet of a Newfoundland. They are typically strong and muscular with a large, square head and medium to long coat. The typical size of a Newfoundland is inches cm at the shoulder, weighing between pounds kg. The typical size of a German Shepherd is inches cm at the shoulder, and they weigh between pounds kg. A mix of both breeds will typically fall somewhere in the middle, with males generally being larger than females. Coat Type The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix will have a thick, double coat that is water-resistant and sheds moderately. Their fluffy coats can be either short or long, but is typically medium in length. They will have the thick undercoat of a Newfoundland combined with the longer outer coat of a German Shepherd. Colors New Sheps can come in a wide variety of colors, depending on their parentage. Their coat color can be either black, brown, gray, red, or white. They may also have markings of a different color on their face, chest, or paws. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. New Sheps are active dogs that need plenty of exercise and stimulation. They are also guard dogs by nature and will bark to warn you of strangers or any potential danger. While they make fantastic family dogs, New Sheps are not recommended for first-time dog owners due to their high energy levels and need for training and socialization. Protectiveness New Sheps display extreme protectiveness of their owners and are very loyal. This behavior is instinctive and cannot be trained out of them. It is important to socialize New Sheps early on so that they can learn to distinguish between actual threats and harmless strangers. Without early socialization, they may become overly suspicious of anyone who is not their owner and become aggressive toward them. New Sheps are also very protective of their families and will do anything to keep them safe. They make excellent watchdogs and will bark to warn their family of any potential danger. They are also very loving and affectionate toward their families and will do anything to make them happy. Strength The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a very strong and large dog. They are one of the strongest dog breeds, and their size can be intimidating to some people. They are also very muscular, and their coats are thick and dense, which helps protect them from the elements. Speed The speed of a Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is about 27 miles per hour mph , but can reach up to 35 mph when running. They are working dogs and were bred for their herding and guarding abilities, so they have a lot of energy. If you have an active lifestyle and are looking for a canine companion to join you on hikes, runs, or swims, this mix may be a good fit. Newfs are known for being relatively lazy, while German Shepherds are much more active. A good rule of thumb is that this mix should get at least an hour of daily exercise. This can be a combination of walks, runs, hikes, and playtime. If your dog is particularly energetic, they may need even more exercise than that. This could include water sports, agility sessions, or other intense activities. Having plenty of space for exercise will naturally be of huge benefit for you and your dog. This mix would be a great companion for you if you live an active lifestyle. They can keep up with most activities and will be happy to do so. Just make sure to give them plenty of breaks, as they can overheat easily. Along with physical exercise, they also need mental stimulation and regular brain exercise. They will likely become bored and destructive if they have excess energy and their activity level is not catered for. Make sure you are prepared to give them the exercise they need before bringing one home. Some may need more obedience training than others, while some may require more socialization. Always consult with a professional trainer to determine what training methods would be best for your specific dog. Typically, the first type of training a Newfoundland German Shepherd mix will need is obedience training. This type of training will teach the dog basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. It is important to start obedience training early on, as it will set the foundation for all other types of training. The second type of training a Newfoundland German Shepherd mix may need is socialization training. This training is important to help the dog develop a gentle nature and become comfortable around people and other animals. Socialization training can be started at any age, but it is typically best to start early on. They are going to be very trainable and will likely excel in obedience trials and other activities. Newfoundland German Shepherd mixes are also likely to have above average intelligence when compared to other dog breeds. This means that they are likely to learn new tricks and commands quickly. They may also be quick to understand the intentions of their owners and be able to follow complex commands. So, if you are looking for a dog that is intelligent and easily trainable, then a Newfoundland German Shepherd mix may be the perfect breed for you! Good with Other Dogs The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a good dog for people who have other dogs in their family. They are gentle and good-natured and get along well with other dogs. Due to their size, they need to be properly socialized with other dogs when they are puppies so that they know how to interact with them and not be afraid of them. They do have natural protective instincts, so they may be leery of strange dogs, but with proper socialization, they can learn to get along with just about any dog. They make great family dogs and love being around people, which is why they do well in homes where there are other dogs present. Good with Children The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a great breed of dog if you are looking for one that is good with children. This mix is known to be gentle, loving, and protective of those they love, which makes them perfect for families with young kids. They are also known for having an affectionate nature. They will quickly become a loyal and trusted friend to your children, and will always be there to lend a furry shoulder to cry on and for constant companionship. Newfoundland German Shepherd mixes are also great dogs for first-time dog owners, as they are relatively easy to train and care for. For example, a growing puppy will need more calories than an adult dog, and a working dog will need more calories than a couch potato. In general, the Newfoundland German Shepherd mix will need a diet that is high in protein and fat, and moderate in carbohydrates. When it comes to choosing a commercial dog food, look for one that is specifically designed for large breeds. Avoid any food that contains fillers or by-products, and make sure the first ingredient is a meat protein. Grooming When it comes to grooming ,the Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a low-maintenance dog. A weekly brushing will help to remove dead hair and keep their coat healthy and clean. Ears should be checked regularly and cleaned when necessary to prevent infection. Teeth should be brushed on a regular basis as well. Newfs are known for being heavy shedders, so expect some extra vacuuming during shedding season. Shedding The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix will be a moderate to heavy shedder. Newfoundland German Shepherd mixes are double-coated, so they will also require regular grooming to help reduce matting and tangles in their fur. Drooling The Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is known to be a very sloppy dog in relation to drooling. This can be quite a nuisance for owners, as it can result in wet floors and furniture. Adaptability to Weather In terms of adapting to weather extremes, the Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a very versatile dog. They can withstand very cold and very hot weather conditions better than most other breeds. They have a thick, double coat of fur that helps protect them against the cold weather and their long legs help them keep their balance in the snow. In terms of the hot weather, they do not have as much fur so they do not get as hot as other breeds. They also have a lot of energy and can run around in the heat without getting tired. Just be sure to provide plenty of shade and fresh water during extremely hot temperatures. Overall, the Newfoundland German Shepherd mix is a very versatile breed that can adapt to any type of weather condition. They are, however, susceptible to elbow and hip dysplasia, which is common in large breeds.

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

These are dogs that are strong, intelligent, alert, courageous, energetic, and loyal. The breed excels as a guardian and these dogs can be trained to perform a range of important tasks. But most of all, this is a dog that protects the ones he or she loves and holds dear. Naming Advice When it comes to naming your German Shepherd, there are a variety of factors to keep in mind. Check out these super cute Pet ID Tags! Personality Finding the right name may not be immediately apparent, and sometimes it takes a while to decide which moniker fits your pup best. Wait for his or her personality to fully emerge before choosing the ideal name. Spend a little time with your new friend and the perfect name will come. Name Length A good rule of thumb is to keep the number of syllables in the dog's name to one or two at most. Three is acceptable but the shorter the name, the easier it is for your dog to hear and respond to commands. Clear communication is imperative for German Shepherds, particularly during training. Avoid Confusion Some names may sound like commands and this will only serve to confuse your pup. If you name your German Shepherd something that sounds identical to those and other commands, obedience is going to be an uphill battle for both you and your pet. Perhaps one of these names will fit your pet best, or maybe these names will help you think of the best possible name for your particular pup. German Shepherds have distinct personality traits and all of these names can reflect those attributes every time you call his or her name. The intelligence, trainability, and strength of the dog meant that it was soon adapted for other purposes, such as being police dogs, military dogs, and, of course, household pets. German shepherds have a rich history, and this can offer some interesting naming options. Beowulf — one of the first puppies of the breed, ideal for strong dogs with sweet personalities Heinz von Starkenburg — one of the first puppies of the breed, perfect if they are sweet like baked beans Hektor Linksrhein — after the father of the breed, a great name if you are adopting an older German shepherd Horand von Grafrath — Horand or Grafrath after the very first German shepherd recognized at shows, the ideal name for sleeker examples of the breed Max von Stephanitz — Max or Stephan or Stephanie after the founder of the breed Phylax — after the Phylax society founded in the late 19th century to standardize the breed Pilot — one of the first puppies of the breed, and a name for a dog that likes to take the lead on walks Names Of German Gods And Goddesses Pre-Christian Germanic religion is a rich and interesting culture linked closely to the Norse religion. Why not name your German shepherd after one of their fierce gods or goddesses? Why not name your dog after some of the famous Germans that have made their mark on history. Keep It Short Choose something short, ideally only one or two syllables, or at least something that can be shortened. This is because it is easier for dogs to learn shorter names, which means they will start responding when you call sooner than if you chose a longer and more complicated name for them. Considering that it is the nickname that you will be using most often and that they will recognize best, make sure you consider their nickname just as carefully as their full name. Consider The First Letter It is a good idea to choose something that starts with a sibilant consonant or blend consonants, such as an S or an SH, or a hard commanding consonant like a K or C. These subtle choices will make it easier for your dog to distinguish their name from all the other ambient noise around them, which means it will also be easier for you to get their attention. Avoid Names That Sound Like Other Important Words Avoid names that sound too much like commands that you will use regularly, as this can just confuse your pup. If their name sounds too much like a command that you use regularly, such as sit or stay, they may confuse the two words. This is why it is rarely a good idea to choose something rude or potentially offensive. All too often, people give their dogs names that they think are funny at the time and then find they are embarrassed to use it later. Remember, everyone in your family who is responsible for your dog will also need to be able to use their name with ease. You can read our guide to teaching your dog their name here. The Verdict Finding the perfect name for your dog really is about exposing yourself to lots of inspiration and ideas until you come across something that feels right. After that, you should sense-check your name to make sure it works. Hopefully, the lists in this article have provided you with some inspiration and our guidelines for checking a name can help you find the perfect name for your German shepherd pup. Do you have any recommendations for the perfect name for a German shepherd? Share them with the community in the comments section below. Related Article:.

All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. In the last weeks she has calmed down a lot. At home she couldn't be sweeter and more adorable. Of course she sometimes counter surfs and needs to be reminded to sit or lay when we are eating or cooking. But in my book that's totally normal puppy behaviour. Nights are a bit tricky, for a month she has been waking us up every night at three and every hour after that. Right now it's not so bad anymore, but she still wants to get up at 4. But I'm usually tougher and keep ignoring her, so when my husband is not at home she might even continue until 7 am. Leash walking has been one of the biggest concerns, but this is now very manageable. By preventing situations that create nervousness avoiding peak hours with a lot of distractions and dogs barking behind fences things are going pretty well. When I sense that she's getting nervous lagging behind, constantly searching for contact and jumping on me I start to praise her and give treates every time she walks nicely and ignore the jumping or say no. After a minute or two of constant praise and reassurance, she she can usually relax and start to sniff around more. When a scary sudden sound emerges or she hears a dog barking she doesn't see, I usually throw treats on the ground right away to avoid the jumping up reflex. I can continue this for as long as the scary sound or other impulse is present. It's now been a couple of weeks since she's jumped up on me and grabbed my arm with her teeth, as she did before when things got over the treshold. I have now come to a conclusion that when she's nervous or unsure what to do, she seeks a reaction or relief of some sort by jumping and using her teeth. I have also introduced the palm touch when I sense she's anxious, so she finds a new way to take contact, instead of the jumping up. When she jumps a lot and finds it hard to to proceed calmly, I sometimes ask her to sit for a while and give a lot of praise when she does. Now she knows that when things get too excited, she sits down for a while and waits for my reaction. The teeth come out also when somebody rubs or pets her the wrong way and she gently or not always so gently moves the hand away with her teeth. However this is not biting. So we try to avoid these situations. When she greets someone at the door she now takes a toy or a shoe in her mouth because she knows using teeth is not okay in this situations. So I'm quite optimistic about her forgetting the teeth thing for good at some point. We are really taking baby steps, I'm actually going the same route with as little distractions as possible, with a little variation to make sure the walk is as relaxed as possible. Some day we might even be able to go to the park with the dozen dog smells, which is a little too overstimulating to her most times. Now we are also able to play a bit of fetch or tug-of-war without her going all crazy zooming around and jump biting. When something new is introduced to the environment like snow we try to avoid stimulating her senses with this kind of play, because it can all be a bit too much at once. Even our year old boy can safely play with her inside the house, without us monitoring the situation all the time. Thanks for the encouragement and support! Hope someone else is able to see a light at the end of the tunnel, when reading this thread. It WILL get better. However, I would be surprised if there weren't any backlashes coming ahead when puberty really hits. What commands should my six month puppy know? And much more! Average 6 month old Lab size? It seems amazing that the little fluff ball you bought home just four months ago should be so big. And bouncy! But I know you want an answer, so as a very rough guide, many 6 month old lab puppies will weigh around 50lbs. The remainder of his growth, another lbs or so will take place more slowly over the next 6 months. What should my black, yellow, or chocolate Labrador weigh at six months? People often ask if there is any difference between the different colors with regard to weight and size. The answer is kind of. Working type American or field bred Labradors are often lighter at six months than show type English or bench bred Labradors. And in the UK at least, most field bred Labradors are either black the majority or yellow including fox red. Most not all, but most chocolate Labs in the UK are show or pet bred Labradors and tend to be more heavily built. There is a softness to his features that will last another couple of months or so. How much food does a 6 month old Lab need? How much food your puppy needs will depend on how much he weighs and what condition he is in. Have a look at our puppy feeding chart and also at the instructions on the packet of food that you are using. If your puppy is a little on the skinny side give him a tiny bit more food than recommended and if he is looking a bit plump, a little bit less. Consistent overfeeding will make a puppy fat. Consistent underfeeding will see him lose weight. How often should I feed my six month old puppy? Your 6 month old Lab can drop down from three meals a day to two without any problems. This means that you will be giving the same amount of food as before, but in two larger meals instead of three smaller ones. So, if your pup gets diarrhoea when you switch to twice daily feed, skip a meal to let his tummy settle, then go back to three meals a day for a few days. When you next try going down to two meals a day, give him two small meals to begin with and increase the meal size gradually over the next few days How far should my six month old be walked every day? If you are not familiar with it, the five minute rule says that a puppy needs five minutes of exercise per day for each month of his life. Like many young Labs, adorable six month old Myles loves everyone: by Ericka from the USA Most experts would divide that into two sessions. This refers to formal walks, not playing in the garden or messing about with other dogs. And the reason for that caution is that your puppy is still growing and the growth plates in his joints are still vulnerable to damage. So my advice would be to avoid hard exercise until your puppy is well past his first birthday and then to build up gradually over a period of several weeks. Sexual maturity in Labradors Puppies become sexually mature before they are physically mature and long before they are mentally adults. Some six month old puppies are capable of breeding. And definitely should not be allowed to do so. Apart from the ethical and moral implications, it may be physically harmful to breed from such a young female. Many female Labradors will have their first season sometime between six months and a year, so this is something you need to be looking out for. Neutering Some of you will have already had your 6 month pup neutered, others will be thinking about doing so in the next few months. If you decide against neutering, this is a good point in time to review the security on your property and make sure it is thoroughly dog proof. Labradors are surprisingly agile and can often jump higher, and dig deeper, than you imagine. Beautiful Poppy at just seven months old: by Karen R from Germany Once sexually mature, many a Labrador, particularly but not only males, will make more effort to explore beyond the boundaries of your property. And if you have a female in season, other enterprising males will do their best to find a way in! Whatever your intentions, the time for breeding is a long way off right now. Bear in mind your dog is nowhere near grown up. In many ways he is still a baby. Has my 6 month old Lab finished teething? Most puppies have shed the last of their baby teeth by six months of age. And will have cut many of their adult teeth by this point too. Most will have all their adult teeth within the next month or so. This is the point at which most young dogs start to lose their fear of losing you. This has some big implications for those that exercise their young dogs off leash in open country, where there are temptations such as wild birds and animals to chase. Which brings us to the next question. As a trainer of working retrievers I can tell you that I have had six month old Labradors that were quite advanced with their training and others that had barely started. All reached the same standard eventually. However, it is important to get started with training now. And while there is no set standard your puppy should have reached, it is definitely time to get some safety cues installed. What commands should my six month old puppy know? Most six month old pups have only quite basic obedience and are not yet reliably obedient when there are lots of distractions about. While many six month olds will sit when asked, and come when called in the house and yard. And a lot the majority of six month old Labradors are still pulling on the lead. Professional or serious hobby trainers aside, this is fairly normal. Most importantly, you need to focus on proofing these cues against distraction. Come The come cue, or recall, is important so that your dog can be allowed safely off leash and recalled if any hazards appear. You can find information on teaching recall here: How to teach a basic recall Even if you have made quite good progress with recall, now is quite a good point at which to be thinking about the about turn walk this is a technique to prevent your dog from getting too far away from you on walks. This is especially important as he grows bigger. Labradors are strong and often friendly dogs. This makes pulling on the lead very common as your puppy does his best to engage every passing stranger in a game. Gorgeous Charlie enjoying a run at six months of age — he also appears in our feature at the top of the page: by Julie T from Cornwall UK I have seen grown ups pulled clean off their feet by large dogs on leash. Being pulled off your feet, or losing control of your dog at the roadside is a very real risk. Many young Labradors are very friendly and while this is a great thing overall, it can cause some problems with training at this age. I mentioned proofing earlier, and proofing is the process which teaches our dogs to come away from other dogs or people. And proofing is the way to succeed. The main problem with proofing is that it takes time and help. You might also find proofing Labrador obedience helpful. What is the best way to train my 6 month old? Training methods are changing. We are in something of a new era with regard to dog training methods and there are now plenty of good trainers who can show you how to train your dog effectively without fear or pain. Behavior problems Most six month old pups are through the housetraining phase, though there may be very occasional accidents if a your dog is left alone for a lot longer than usual. Female dogs may have an occasional accident during their first season too, but these are usually isolated incidents. What about chewing? If you are expecting chewing to stop at the same time as teething coming to an end, you may be disappointed. We look at destructive chewing in more detail in this article , but it can be at its worst between 6 and 9 months of age. Which brings us to a common question Can I de-crate my six month old Lab? It seems mean to shut him away at bedtime. Why not give him the freedom of the kitchen during the night? Well, this can work. But often it does not and results either in a bad chewing problem or occasionally, in a relapse in house training. You can find out more in this article which includes detailed de-crating instructions. The other big issue for many puppy parents with six month olds, is excitable behavior. Particularly jumping up, and sometimes nipping How do I stop my six month old Labrador from jumping up? Jumping up is a common problem in young labs. These are friendly and affectionate dogs who enjoy close contact and like to greet their friends up close! You and your visitors not only tolerate it, but actually reinforce it by petting the puppy as he does it. Or rather over- excitement. This is the age at which excitable behavior can become quite a challenge again. Partly because the dog is now physically bigger, stronger, and more difficult to control. Now, more than ever, you need your dog to listen and respond to your voice. Playing safely More often than not, excitable behavior that has got out of control, started out as a game. However, if you are struggling a bit, you are not on your own. Drop into the forum and say hello to all the other puppy parents. If you are following my training of Bubba, you know that training a 3—4-month-old puppy is a big challenge. By the time your puppy reaches the 5-month age, they have generally started to mature some, not a lot and are usually a bit more receptive to training. Here is the training you can work on with your 5-month-old Lab puppy. Regarding this series of posts This is post nine of a step-by-step training and socialization program for Labrador puppies. If you read our first post , you know that this series follows our training of Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to raise and train her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. In this case, Bubba will be with us for almost a year and a half. Bubba Bubba has turned the corner from puppy to adolescent. She now understands the training schedule and looks forward to being trained twice a day. I know this because when Bubba comes out of the dog trailer, she is watching me and bouncing in anticipation of being trained. She has learned that if she does her obedience work, she gets to retrieve. So, she is willing to do the work to get the reward. This simple shift has made working with Bubba so much more enjoyable. Now is when I get to really see her start to improve, and I find that so rewarding. Training and socialization for five-month-old Labrador puppy Here are the things we have been working on and will continue to work on with Bubba in month five. Increased self-control and restraint This goes hand-in-hand with obedience. I must continue to increase my expectations of Bubba and put her in more and more situations where she must make the decision to obey. At this age, I can see the conflict going on in her mind. I call her with a HERE command, but she wants to run after the cat. She looks at me, so I know she heard me and then she looks at the cat. At this point, she will more often than not choose to obey the HERE command and come to me. This is huge. It shows some maturity and an increase in knowledge and understanding of right and wrong behavior. Dog trainers live for times like these. It means the dog is growing and learning and making good choices. This drill is very simple. Why is this important? Well, most people have problems with their dog coming to them consistently. The reason is most often because each time the dog comes the dog gets put away in the house, or in a crate. Or they get something taken away from them like a toy or a stick. It allows your dog to learn that coming to you is a good thing and not a bad thing. Obedience training your 5-month-old puppy We continue to work on obedience daily with Bubba and will for at least the next months. After that, we will still do obedience training at least twice a week. You are never done obedience training. Your dog may get very good at obedience work, but if you do not work on it for a few weeks or longer, it will start to deteriorate. For now, we simply use a chain collar and heeling stick, but not too far down the line we will start collar conditioning her for corrections by the electronic collar. In fact, technically, we are already collar conditioning Bubba since each time we take her out to train we put an e-collar on her. It is a small puppy sized collar and it is not turned on, but she wears it each time she gets trained. So, when I pull out the e-collar, Bubba gets very excited because she knows she is going to get trained. This is the response we are looking for. Some dogs get very excited when the owner grabs the leash, because they know that they are going for a walk. This is the same reaction we are looking for from putting on an electronic collar. The dog should not act differently when the e-collar is on. If your dog cowers or fights you when you want to put the e-collar on, then you have introduced the collar incorrectly and your dog now thinks that the e-collar is a bad thing. This means that your dog is collar wise and will act completely different when the e-collar is on. This is a huge problem because it is very likely your dog will be obedient when the collar is on and disobedient when the collar is off. That is not what we want to achieve. We want your dog to be obedient with or without the e-collar on. Micro-obedience sessions At this young age, we often do what I call micro-obedience sessions. These are obedience training sessions, but they are only around minutes long. These are very effective for puppies because they have a very short attention span. You just must pick one obedience command to focus on for each micro-session, preferably only one drill. It is better to do micro-sessions a day than to try and pack too much into each session. She is not perfect, she is still a puppy and therefore makes a lot of mistakes, but she understands the HEEL command and I can walk in squares or a figure 8 and she is following my legs for the turns. I will continue to work on longer and longer walks with Bubba at heel throughout the month. Learn more about How to obedience train a Labrador puppy. Bubba is a chocolate Lab, and as I have said in the past, chocolates tend to mature slower than black or yellow Labs. Because of this, Bubba really struggled with a remote SIT for a long time. She could not seem to stop her little butt from moving! However, we have made progress and she is now sitting still, and I can walk away from her to a distance of around six feet while she remains seated. Again, she makes mistakes. She is a puppy, and we must give her some grace, but we still correct the mistakes and continue to work on improvement. The distance can be anywhere from 3 feet to 6 feet. Later, this will be very important since this is the position to which I expect all my dogs to deliver the birds. She will end facing the same direction I am facing, sitting next to me. This is a vital drill that we do with every dog that goes through one of our programs. It teaches the dog to deliver the bird to a HEEL position. By starting this with Bubba at this young age, she will learn quickly what the HEEL position is and soon I will be able to say HEEL and put my left hand out from my side slightly and she will come into that position. I did use treats for a short time, which again, I am not a fan of for many reasons. HERE is a vital command and so we will work on it daily. And for those of you who are wondering, yes, manually does mean chasing her puppy butt down, putting on a lead and pulling her towards me with the HERE command all the way back to where I was when I issued the command. It is so important that you never, and I mean NEVER, give a dog a command that you are not willing to enforce in one way or another. For your dog to learn that commands are meant to be obeyed, they must understand that any refusal of the command will be backed up with a correction. The correction may only be a sharp NO, or it may be more serious like a lead correction. Retrieving with your 5-month-old Lab puppy In my last post, I talked about how important it is for you to NOT retrieve with a teething-puppy. Bubba has most of her adult teeth in already, we are just waiting on a few, but she is showing us she is more than ready to retrieve again. So, we have begun hand thrown marks again and she is going out like gangbusters and delivering the bumpers right to my hand. If I notice any problems with her carrying the bumpers or if she starts dropping them a lot, I will stop again until the teeth are more solid. If Bubba seems to be in pain at all during retrieving, we will stop immediately. We never want her to associate retrieving with pain. Bubba already understands the retrieving game when it comes to assistant thrown marks too. She sits with me or Steve at the line and faces the gunners throwers in the field. She sits tall and proud; she knows what the gunners are out there for, and she is ready to do the work. It is so fun to watch these puppies figure out the game and what their job is. It is time to start a new retrieving drill with Bubba. The drill is designed to get a dog to mark throws that are further and further away. It gets them to run out a longer distance to a mark and not even notice the change in distance. It is done by starting with a 20—yard mark, generally on shorter grass where the bumper can be seen on the ground. Have the thrower throw the bumper and send the dog using their name. After the dog picks up the bumper and is running back to you, take a few large steps backward. Take delivery of the bumper and line your dog up for another mark. The mark will be in the same place, but that location is now several yards deeper since you have backed up. Have the thrower throw another bumper and again send your dog. After the dog picks up the bumper and is running back to you, again back up several yards. Repeat until your dog is retrieving at longer distances. This drill works well for dogs that have a very strong retrieving desire. For dogs with less desire, you will need to move much slower, only doing marks total in a session. Remember, you never want to burn out your dog with retrieves. Always leave them wanting more! Final thoughts on training for your 5-month-old Labrador puppy If you have been following these posts, you are getting very close to moving your dog into hunting training. We take dogs for our hunting programs right after their adult teeth are in, so generally at months of age. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving. Training your 5-month-old Labrador puppy. Size 5-months Labrador retriever is already a big and large dog by its size: its average weight is kilos and its height at the shoulder is approximately cm. Training Take walks a day and do not overstrain a puppy with active games. It is still too young to undergo some special training which starts from 1 year, as a rule. You just can proceed with slightly breaking of the habit of relieving a puppy at home and praise your puppy for doing it outdoors. Advice: from this age start to show your dog that you are his master and it should obey you. Be careful! It is necessary to unleash a puppy in safe and enclosed areas only. Healthcare Your 5-months Labrador puppy was vaccinated in 2. Besides, you can already treat your puppy against worms before the next immunization. Remember, that puppies under 1 year are still have vulnerable immune system. Feeding Now you can feed your puppy less frequent, 3 times a day, at that, one meal should be a between-meal snack. For example, you can feed your puppy like that: 8 a. Labrador retrievers are prone to obesity, so, you should not overfeed your puppy. Feed it 3 times a day in strict proportions and, if you feed a puppy with dry food, choose one for puppies prone to extra weight. Advice: your Labrador puppy is growing very fast, so, it needs some food supplements to be strong and healthy, with correct body and skeleton development. Choose special vitamins for puppies with a maximum content of calcium, vitamin D3 and phosphorous. Conclusion 5 months is the age during which a dog owner should be very responsible towards a puppy since its health, immune system, as well as behavior traits, are beginning to form. Take care of your Labrador puppy since its puppyhood to make your dog sound and healthy. This post may contain affiliate links. That Mutt may earn money from the companies mentioned in this post. My Lab puppy Rip is almost 5 months old at the time of this writing. He is a very good puppy with just the usual puppy issues like trying to chew rugs and jumping on us for attention. The potty training also seems to have finally clicked! I wanted to write this update about Rip for my own reference. So, here is my Rip update! He will be a bigger puppy then but he will also learn so much. During 3 weeks of introductory training, my puppy will get a lot of experience with flushing and retrieving live birds and a lot of proper exposure to gunfire. Lab puppy, Rip! I hope to hunt with Rip next fall and possibly take him to some retriever hunt tests. Puppy training vs. Meeting different dogs and people Rip has met lots of different dogs and people of different ages. He gets excited and will sometimes jump on people but he is not as over the top as my dog Remy still is. Rip is more reserved and does a lot of thinking. He plays appropriately with different dogs. He is not too rough. Such as in the car while driving somewhere fun. I will say, Rip seems to be a very well-adjusted puppy and I know most of that is from his genetics. When Rip comes back from bird dog training, I plan to dive into obedience a lot more. Right now, he really only knows sit, down and stay for a few seconds and come! I already have one resource guarder , I would prefer not to have two! Not jumping on people Rip does not get quite as excited as Remy does when we greet people but he does want to jump on people , as most dogs do. So I am going to try to really get ahead of that habit and correct it early. Wish me luck. Puppy leash training and walking Once he turned 4 months old, Rip finally wanted to go for walks so I started walking him for about 1 mile twice a day. My parents are doing something similar with him now, I believe. He is so different from my weimaraner Remy who was marching along for miles a day by 10 weeks old. Right now, Rip has no leash manners. He pulls, stops, sniffs, cuts behind me and in front of me, chases leaves, bites plants, sits down, zig-zags, stops to look at birds. So, I have a plan to work on some serious leash manners starting in late November when he comes home. How to stop a 5 month old Lab puppy from pulling There are different methods to teaching a dog not to pull. If he pulls, I simply will not move. My adult dog Remy pulls all the time. Due to my lack of patience and his strong will, I gave up on him and just manage him with a no-pull harness. Let me know if you have suggestions on this. I wrote a Facebook post a few months back where I said I purposely have my dogs spend time away from each other each day — chewing on Kongs in different rooms or walking with me at separate times. Remy is a very high-energy dog and needs to run hard every day to be fulfilled. My adult dog guards toys from my 5 month old Lab puppy The other issue is how Remy will guard toys. Thankfully, he does not lunge and bite over a toy. Instead, he snatches the toy and then clamps down hard on it with black eyes and hackles raised, growling. This can get frustrating because the puppy obviously needs toys to chew on or he starts chewing on rugs and furniture. So this is another reason why they get separated at times. Remy chews on a Kong in another room while Rip plays with some other toys. Puppy kennel training I have never had an issue kennel training a puppy. He usually just falls asleep. So, those are the latest updates with my 5 month old Lab puppy Rip! He really could not be any better. He is such an easygoing puppy. If you are raising a puppy right now, what is your biggest struggle? Thank you! Lindsay Stordahl is the founder of That Mutt. She writes about dog training, dog exercise and feeding a healthy raw diet.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Do you want to know how to fatten up a German Shepherd to make them gain weight in a healthy way? Are you worried that your German Shepherd is thin and underweight and want to know how to bulk up a German Shepherd for safe weight-gain? Is Your German Shepherd Underweight? Your dog should have a trim, athletic appearance. They are large breed dogs with fast metabolisms that are active and energetic in their daily lives. Fit German Shepherds may at first seem slightly underweight. They are lean, athletic dogs with a strong, firm figure and you should avoid learning how to make a German Shepherd fat. Instead, you want to bulk-up your German Shepherd to make them fit. But if you see their ribs protruding or their hip bones raised and easily felt when petting, this is a sign of being underweight. You should first check with your vet for possible medical issues. You want to know if they are gaining weight, losing weight, or remaining the same. This helps you to decide if your weight gain plan is working — or if you need to adjust your plan. If your dog continues losing weight or if you see a lack of progress, take your dog back to your veterinarian. You need to see this as a long term plan and not an overnight fix to get your German Shepherd fat and by fat, I mean bulk-up not obese or overweight. Look for foods that have a higher percentage of fat and protein than your current food. Adults and seniors should eat about 20 to 25 percent of their daily calories from protein and 25 to 50 percent from fats. The rest of the calories should come from carbohydrates. This is anywhere from 8 months to a year or longer. Change to Puppy or High-Performance Food If you have an adult dog, switch them to a puppy or high-performance dog food to help them gain healthy weight. Both puppy and high-performance also known as a working breed food is higher in calories to support complex energy needs and sustained growth. Puppy foods generally have added nutrients to support puppy growth which can help your underweight German Shepherd gain weight and fatten up in a controlled manner — which is what you want. Mixing regular adult and puppy or high-performance food helps your GSD gain weight and fat in a regulated manner. For More Calories Feed Dry Kibble Dry kibble dog food generally has more calories if you want your dog to gain weight. Dry kibble is denser and contains more calories than wet food because the moisture has been removed from dry foods. Therefore, dry food has up to 4 times the number of calories as the same amount of wet food — dry kibble is a weight gaining powerhouse! If your dog is currently eating wet meals, then try mixing in some dry food with their wet food to help stimulate weight gain. Wet foods may taste better to your dog, so mixing in the dry foods with the wet still encourages your dog to eat in order to not lose more weight. Look for dry food with higher protein and fats to encourage weight gain in a healthy manner and go with one of the foods mentioned above for fat gain that is healthy. Begin by feeding your dog a bit more of their current food spread out over one more meal per day. Add a quarter to half a cup of extra food per meal. You can also take their regular feeding and the additional food and increase their feeding schedule to four times per day, splitting the food equally at each feeding. If your German Shepherd is picky about when they eat, then it may help to leave food out for them all the time. This is called free feeding. Dogs who can free feed tend to gain more weight than dogs fed on a schedule. Free feeding allows your dog the chance to eat a little whenever they are hungry or bored. This type of feeding may help them eat more overall. But only use free feeding with dry food, since wet foods spoil when left out for more than a couple hours. They may follow you around rather than eat when you offer their food bowl — this may be especially true of Shepherds since they tend to get fixated on their caretaker. But, just keeping your dog company while they eat may stimulate their appetite. Find a comfortable spot to sit and wait on your dog while they eat. Bring a book or do a quiet activity while they eat close to you. Simply sit with them and enjoy your time together while they eat. Keep the treats handy and offer them to help get extra calories into your dog. Adding these foods into their regular kibble may also entice them to eat more of their dry dog food, which can help an underweight puppy or adult. They also add extra calories which are healthy and nutritious. To get your dog more interested in their food, try sprinkling on a topping to their usual meals. You can even buy healthy toppers that are easy to add. Seniors, adults, and puppies all have various nutritional concerns. Most commercial and pre-made dog foods specify their intended age range on the packaging and state what groups the food is aimed at feeding. Underfeeding a German Shepherd puts your dog at a serious health risk. You need to make sure they get enough food for their age and energy needs. Puppies generally eat almost double the number of calories an adult dog needs, so be sure to check out this post on what amount to feed a German Shepherd puppy to keep them healthy. While a senior GSD may eat significantly fewer calories, if they are losing weight or underweight and a vet has been consulted, they may need extra feedings or food to help them gain the weight back. German Shepherds thrive on consistent physical activity. Walking and swimming are activities that build muscle and are lower impact and less intense on their joints and bones. They can be done every day to keep your dog active and help them to maintain their muscle mass. But these two exercises can be performed at a lower intensity so that even older dogs and puppies can enjoy their benefits make sure your puppy can swim first. Keeping muscle mass is important to prevent wasting and help maintain their health and mobility, as well as their athletic appearance. Try walking up hills to improve muscle growth or a gentle game of tug using a spring pole in which your dog can start and stop on their own. Some of the herbs used to increase human appetite are also safe for use in dogs. Dandelion is available in this for-1 multivitamin , along with other herbal supplements to make your GSD gain weight. B vitamins are natural appetite stimulants and are readily available over the counter and online. Visit Your Vet Regularly Always see your vet regularly. Regular vet appointments are especially important for your underweight German Shepherd. Your vet will use your notes to help make medical adjustments, as necessary, and to give you the right tips and advice. Helping Your German Shepherd Gain Weight Knowing how to fatten up a German Shepherd can help you and your dog achieve their ideal weight and maintain this healthy condition. There are many reasons why your dog or puppy may not be gaining weight. But there are also ways to help your dog at home to become healthier and have more energy. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. If you normally feed your dog once in the morning and once in the evening, add in one more meal right before bed. Start by feeding them the same amount spread out over more meals. If this does not help them gain weight, you may need to give them more food, adding a quarter to half a cup per meal. This type of feeding schedule allows your dog to nibble a little whenever they are hungry or bored, which may help them eat more overall. Keep in mind that free-feeding may not work for your dog. For some dogs, the excitement of getting their food at certain times during the day makes them eat more than if it was available to them all the time. Treats should not be a primary calorie source for your dog. Giving them a few extra treats throughout the day, though, can help your German Shepherd gain some weight. Some dogs find treats from your fridge to be more appealing than treats from a bag. Give your German Shepherd small amounts of cooked chicken mixed with rice, a spoonful of peanut butter, a scrambled egg, or some apple slices every day in addition to their normal food. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. A sprinkle of rice, a couple heaping spoonfuls of pumpkin, a bit of wet food, or a big spoonful of peanut butter mixed in with dry food could intrigue your dog into eating. Coconut oil has a lot of calories, and it's easy for dogs to digest. It can be a minor issue or flat-out hazardous. So, we applaud you for trying to learn why you have a skinny German Shepherd. Excessive Exercise It could be likely that your skinny male German Shepherd is overly active and getting a lot of exercise. More work means more food, not just any food but those high in calories. Dental Issues We often let dental problems in our dogs go unnoticed. It can be a sore, abscess, ulcer, or even broken teeth and gum infections. It can cause weight loss over time or even spread to other areas in the body if not treated quickly. Health problems that affect their weight can range widely. Parasites and worms are common issues in many dogs, while more severe problems like cancer and heart disease also cause unusual weight loss. Look for other symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and dizziness as they usually accompany weight loss when the dog suffers from a serious health issue. Your dog can get undesirable effects too. Not getting enough attention, training , exercise, or not socializing enough can lead to anxiety in your dog. Other causes include moving to a new home and bringing home a new pet. Think about what might be causing stress in your dog and consider how you can improve its overall living quality. Genetics Sometimes, the reason for a skinny German Shepherd can be as simple as its genetic factor. Most working German Shepherds are lean, so your dog will most probably be skinny because it is from this bloodline. Try to recollect how it looked when it was younger. Aging causes dental problems and appetite loss, which makes them skinny. However, it can also be because of deeper health problems brought about by aging, like cancer. Here are some effective options you can consider: Visit the Vet The foremost thing to do when your German Shepherd is suddenly losing weight is to see a vet. Consider Puppy Food Puppy food contains ingredients that help puppies grow rapidly and healthily. Try feeding puppy food to your older dog to let it gain weight. However, consult with the vet before implementing this step to ensure safety. Try Wet Food German Shepherds with dental problems will benefit tremendously from wet food. It is much easier to consume, making your pet want to eat more. Let Them Eat When They Want German Shepherd parents who cannot make time to give them multiple meals daily should consider leaving the food out for them to eat anytime. Leave dry food instead of wet food, as they will remain fresh for longer. Homemade Treats Might Help Making treats for your dog at home ensures a healthier diet. Cheese and peanut butter are great options. While buying them, make sure to look for those high in calories. Note: Steer clear of grapes and chocolates while preparing homemade treats for your GSD. It can also relieve you to know that your pooch is gaining weight, even if slowly. The Takeaway Whether you have a skinny female German Shepherd or a male one, seeing them lose weight can be disheartening. While some breeds are lean by nature, a variety of underlying health issues might be causing it. Take it to the vet to rule out all possibilities, or treat them ASAP. You can also help your dog gain back weight by following the above measures. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Cutting back on treats. Take your dog for a walk before mealtime. If your dog is not eating after min, take the bowl away and allow her to skip the meal. Feeding your pet on a regular schedule, usually at least twice a day. Let your dog eat in a quiet corner without distraction. Make mealtime fun, such as letting her play with a food dispenser or rewarding your dog with food for doing a trick. You might even put a few pieces of food on the floor. But be careful GSD are can get bloat with an elevated eating position. Switch to a different kind of food, such as wet food if you normally feed your dog dry food. Why do dogs become overweight? On the other hand, being overweight can also lead their other health issues such as arthritis, diabetes, joint injuries or high blood pressure. So you also need to be aware of your dog is overweight. Although German Shepherds are active dogs, they still can become overweight for many reasons. The obvious ones are: Overeating: Too many calories, or the wrong type of calories Aging: As dogs age, they lose muscle mass over time, which leads to slower metabolism and weight gain. Osteoarthritis: This frequently causes hip pain. The more overweight your dog is, the greater the strain placed on their joints. Unfortunately, the pain caused by osteoarthritis makes it harder for your dog to exercise. Hip dysplasia: Your dog may experience pain when the hip is touched, which eventually deters them from moving around. Here are our top tips for how you can help your dog lose weight: Cut back on the snack or treats Choose high-quality dog foods Reduce processed carbs; replace them with healthy proteins and vegetables. They may have food recommendations for overweight dogs, and your vet can help ensure your dog is getting adequate nutrition. How do I know if my German Shepherd is healthy? Much like humans, preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best ways you can do to ensure your dog is in top shape. Health costs for a big dog like a German Shepherd are more expensive than their smaller dogs. Treatment for many conditions can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance or cost-sharing service is certainly a good investment to prevent you from breaking the bank, by covering the medical expenses in the worst-case scenario. Some plans are also available to cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, congenital conditions, and more. Conclusion Helping your dog maintain a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. At the end of the day, keeping your GSD at a healthy weight will ensure a lifetime of health and joy for both of you. More on German Shepherd Health and Care. So too will a GSD that is consuming low-quality food in general. Getting the calories right! Moderately active German shepherds need around calories per day, whereas highly active German shepherds need around calories per day. Highly active working GSDs may even need upwards of calories. Either the quality of the food is fine, but the portion sizes are too small too few calories , or the quality of the kibble is lacking. Again, this ties into calorie consumption. If your GSD is super active over 3 hours of exercise a day , she will likely need calories per day. Health issues In most cases, health issues are the cause of sudden weight loss. Health issues that affect weight can range from harmless and treatable all the way to serious, even fatal issues rarer. Common problems like worms and parasites particularly in puppies can cause weight loss. Rarer and more serious things like heart disease and cancer can also cause weight loss. Health problems usually always come with multiple symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, dizziness, or any noticeable change from her normal self. If this is the case, then it would be evident right from puppyhood. If you were lucky enough to see the mum and other puppies in the litter, they would have all been similarly skinny. Some GSDs are just smaller than others. Stress and anxiety Just as stress can have many undesirable effects on us, it can do the same with our furry friends, too, weight loss being one of them. Common reasons include spending too much time alone, not receiving enough exercise, attention, or training. Additionally, it could be down to a change in their environment like moving homes, new neighbors, or even the addition of a household pet. Consider your GSDs overall quality of life, basic needs and think about the possibility of them being stressed. Bad eating habits Fussy eating is something many owners have to deal with at some point. The issue is that this could be the cause of weight loss. Once again, it comes back down to the calories in versus the calories out. I have an entire article dedicated to why your GSD might be refusing their food. Dental issues If your GSD is suffering from any kind of dental complaint, this could cause them to refuse their food and lose out on calories. So I think it deserves its own section. In fact, this was actually what happened with my GSD when she was 7. After refusing her food and simultaneously losing weight, I checked her mouth to find some serious gum irritation thankfully not gum disease. We got that resolved with the help of our veterinarian, and her appetite came back right away. Aside from using the scales, one of the best ways to know if your GSD is underweight or not is to simply feel them and look at their waistline. Ribs Run your hand along their side with light pressure. You should be able to feel their ribs a little this is normal! Waistline Waistline abdominal tuck should be noticeable but not extreme. Check out this chart from Petcarerx source. If the weight loss has happened suddenly for no obvious reason, it is advised to see a vet. Important note: If you suspect your GSD is losing weight for an alternative reason like stress or dental issues, the best solution would be to address those issues instead of adjusting their diet. Always consider the cause first. Add wet dog food My all-time favorite way to stop fussy eating while adding a boost of nutrition and calories is to mix in a small amount of wet dog food to their kibble. This is a known and safe method that veterinarians recommend to help with weight gain. Mix in some wet dog food preferably the same brand , and your GSD will likely benefit from this greatly. Add it once a day or every other day. This will enhance the flavor and beat most cases of fussy eating. Just ensure the meat broth you use is a healthy option without a high salt content or artificial flavorings or additives. Increase portion size Assuming you are already using a high-quality kibble and your GSD is getting on well with it no digestive issues or diarrhea , then it could be a simple matter of increasing the portion size. Be sure to check the back of the bag and work out how many calories you are adding. This is a noticeable difference for a dog, so you should see some changes in weight over weeks. Avoid giving too many treats Although we are trying to add calories and encourage weight gain, treats are not the solution to this. Especially if your GSD is refusing the food anyway. These brands focus on high-quality ingredients that are fresh and close to their natural state. Brands like these also prioritize protein and fat over carbohydrates, which is an instant sign of higher quality. Inferior brands are known to use carbs to bulk out their food while keeping prices cheap. In addition to this, canines, in general, are better adapted to eating a wild diet. Wild diets are high in protein and fat while low on carbs. This results in better digestion and absorption of the food they are eating. Just remember to change foods gradually over the course of days, phasing out the old and incorporating more of the new. This should prevent stomach upset. Additional articles that may help:. So as well as checking for a loss of weight you should also look for the following. Dull, Lifeless Coat A dull lifeless coat is also another sign of an underweight german shepherd. Once again without the proper nutrients in their diet, their body will begin to suffer. In a lot of cases, the quality of their fur will suffer first. On top of this, when the body gets too starved of energy it will begin to eat itself. And muscles are the first thing to go. This might show itself in a loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. And it can also be a sign of a serious health issue. Ribcage Showing In extreme cases, an underweight german shepherds ribcage will show. You should never allow your dog to get to this point, however, if you do then you need to take them to the vets immediately. Looking Down At Them When your german shepherd is standing up, stand over them and look down. They should look bulky and full. Slimming at the waist is to be expected as well. Feeling Their Ribs Another great test is to run your hands along their ribs. In a healthy dog, you should be able to feel their ribs ever so slightly under a small amount of fat and muscle. However, if your german shepherd is underweight his ribs will feel like skin and bone. And if it is, are you feeding them enough? On top of this food also has different calories. Check out the best food for german shepherd puppies. This is one of the reasons you need to take your dog for frequent check-ups at the vets! Dental Problems A lot of the times dogs have dental problems that you may not even be aware of. For example, one of my labradors had a tooth that chipped and went rotten. However, if it was, it would have only been spotted by accident. As well as having a broken tooth there are also other dental problems that may be causing your german shepherd to stop eating. Diabetes One symptom of diabetes in dogs is weight loss. However, as well as weight loss you may also notice symptoms such as excessive thirst, urination, and urinary tract infections. If you think this is the case then you can try changing their food and leaving them to eat by themselves. You Have An Old Pup! As your german shepherd enters their senior years they may begin to eat less and less. Things that seem small to you could be stressful to your german shepherd, and their weight loss could be caused by this. Find out more common reasons your german shepherd may not be eating or what to do if you have an overweight german shepherd! How To Fatten Up A German Shepherd When you notice your german shepherd is underweight then your best choice is to consult a vet and make sure nothing is wrong with them. However, if your vet has given them the all-clear, then here are some great ways you can help your german shepherd gain weight. If this is the case, then you should consider swapping to a different type of food. You should look for foods that are high in protein and fat. Check out the 5 best foods you can feed a skinny german shepherd. Try Puppy Food As well as using high-calorie dog food you could also give your german shepherd food made for puppies. This type of food is designed to sustain a puppy when their growing. If you do plan on feeding your german shepherd puppy food make sure you consult your vet first. Two big meals and one small meal have the added benefit of already being similar to the routine they have now. Secondly, if your German shepherd realizes they can eat whenever they want, they may end up eating even less than before. If you feed your german shepherd to many treats then they may end up being too full to eat their regular meals. Apples, bananas, peanut butter, eggs, and strawberries are all great choices! Giving them peanut butter and cheese is a great way to introduce excess calories in small amounts. However, when giving your german shepherd home-made treats remember there are some foods that are fine for humans but not for dogs. Stay away from chocolate and grapes and make sure you check before introducing anything new to their diet. Add Home-Made Food To Their Meals Chicken and rice is a staple for my dog whenever they have an upset stomach, however, it can also be used as an addition to their regular dog food. As well as chicken and rice you could also try adding egg and pumpkin. Wet food is going to be a lot easier for them to eat, and once they can eat easily they should start gaining weight again! FAQ Here are the answers to your frequently asked questions in relation to a skinny german shepherd! They grow at different rates and oftentimes they may end up being skinny and gangly. You should be able to feel your german shepherd spines, however, you should also be able to feel skin and muscle around it too. A male german shepherd should weigh between lbs and a female german shepherd should be between lbs. This should also be in proportion to their size though. So they do definitely tend to have sensitive stomachs. Cheaper than replacing everything they might break. And definitely cheaper than a lawsuit against you, if they decide to bite someone. And the best part is it also has a day money-back guarantee! You can also check out a full review here , to learn exactly what the course has to offer! Recap As you can see there are plenty of things you can do to help your german shepherd gain weight. There are also plenty of things that may be causing them to lose weight. Give them puppy food as it supports growth. Try feeding them more meals a day or letting them free feed. Give them more treats and try making homemade treats. Add homemade food to their meals such as rice and chicken, peanut butter and pumpkin. Lastly, journal their meals and weigh them regularly. If you liked this article or have any more questions leave them in the comments below, otherwise have a great day! Related Posts:. Your veterinarian can check for worms with a stool sample. Certain types of worms such as roundworms can be fatal in puppies if left untreated, so it is crucial that you take your puppy for regular checkups. Has your Puppy Been Traveling Regularly? If you feel that your GSD puppy is too skinny, consider if you have been taking it along for car rides on a consistent basis. Many puppies experience motion sickness. This does not necessarily mean that they will vomit or have an upset stomach only. Some puppies will do neither, and instead, decrease their eating to the point of losing weight. If this is the case, limit the amount of time your puppy spends traveling in a car. This will allow your puppy to have you as a reference point and a distraction. Provide a small puppy bed on the seat. Make sure that the temperature in the car is neither too hot or cold. Pay attention to how you drive. Often times we take our driving for granted without considering the comfort of our passengers. Puppies can be especially sensitive during car rides, so be sure to take turns gently, and do not brake or accelerate suddenly. A change in the environment is a common cause of a longer-term loss of appetite and weight loss in puppies. A change in environment for your puppy does not just mean that it has moved from one physical location to another. They learn and function well with routine. This can sometimes result in a long term lack of appetite and weight loss. You may likely find that if one or more of the above changes are addressed, that your puppy will resume a normal eating schedule and quickly bounce back from being underweight. Your GSD puppy needs adequate nutrients in its diet for growth and to maintain a healthy weight. GSDs are considered medium to large-sized dogs, and they need to be fed the appropriate breed-formulated dog food, especially as puppies. If you are not feeding it the right formulation for its breed size, this can result in undernourishment and a skinny puppy. Tweet We get a lot of questions from German Shepherd owners about how to keep weight on their pups. Chronically skinny, underweight Shepherds can be heartbreaking for an owner who is desperate to put weight on them. What do I do? Schnauzers can have this problem too. So what is it? Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency or EPI is a condition in which the pancreas is not able to produce adequate enzymes to digest and absorb food properly. To determine if this is the case with your shepherd, make an appointment with your veterinarian and request some blood testing. Shepherds are also susceptible to pancreatitis so it's important that you think preventatively! So what can you do if your shepherd has EPI? Your first line of defense as a pet owner is choosing the type of food and supplements you put into your shepherd. Try the following: Provide as many dietary enzymes as possible. Our recommendation is by feeding a raw diet. Raw meat, bones, organs, and juiced veggies combined will contain all the necessary enzymes for better digestive function. By relieving the pancreas of having to produce additional enzymes you can prevent pancreatic inflammation Pancreatitis. Shepherds that are fed only processed or cooked diets are often missing these vital nutrients. Suggestion: A rotation of our 3P veggies 1 and 4 is a great way to give natural-source vitamins and minerals as well as metabolic support for a dog suffering from a pancreatic disease. This may be a bit gross for some, but excellent for your pup! Add a good portion of raw, green tripe to the diet. Green tripe, an animal stomach that smells horrible, but it works! If fed raw not canned it contains the highest levels of digestive enzymes available in a natural form. Wild canines eat the stomach of their prey first because of this fact. Your shepherd will benefit too. Us it as a supplement on top of regular food portions. Ensure you are purchasing freshly frozen, grass-fed tripe. Provide a canine-specific digestive enzyme supplement that includes ox bile and a variety of other digestive enzymes. This will also provide some extra digestive support. Start slowly and build up to a full dosage if your shepherd is experiencing regular diarrhea. Keeping the gut flora in good working order will help your dog to absorb as many nutrients as possible. Good bacteria in the gut will also help with enzyme production, so don't leave the good bacteria out! Look for canine-specific, high potency, multi-strain probiotics with a pre-biotic added. Feed a lean, low-fat raw diet. High-fat diets can overwork the pancreas and the liver and are not recommended for shepherds with EPI or other pancreatic dysfunction. High-quality lean protein will help pack on the pounds for shepherds having difficulty gaining weight. Steer clear of lamb, duck, and other naturally high-fat meats. Cook yams or squash to add as low-glycemic carbohydrates. Cooked yams and squash are more nutritious and easier to digest than other forms of carbohydrate, such as rice or oatmeal. Also yams and squash pair better with the digestibility of raw foods. Remove the skin, unless vegetables are organic then you can keep the skins on. Make all dietary changes slowly and add one thing at a time.

View All Articles in Labradoodle Breeders Location Depending on your geographical location, you can expect to pay more money in certain areas. Naturally, the Labradoodle price is usually tied to the overall cost of living in that area. Of course, you might be tempted to adopt a puppy from a different state. Any of those can add a few hundred dollars to your total Labradoodle price. Breeder Stock Another factor that influences the Labradoodle cost is breeding stock. Breeding different generations of Labradoodles requires a certain set of parent dogs. For example, F1 or first-generation Labradoodles are often less expensive than F1b or F1bb Labradoodles. See Also: Click the image Demand Needless to say, the high demand can also hike up the price of Labradoodles, especially in more populated areas like major cities. The best reputable breeders have waiting lists that filled 6 months in advance, sometimes even up to a year or two. This in turn means that breeders will charge higher rates to keep up with the demand while not overbreeding the mama dogs. Size, Color, and Coat Type Another thing you should keep in mind is that certain sizes, colors, and coat types can cost you some extra money. For instance, some breeders charge more for Mini Labradoodles compared to Standard Labradoodles. Usually, the most hypoallergenic Labradoodles are found in F1b, F1bb, F2b, and F2bb generations, which also require more genetic testing to achieve. See Also: Click the image Breeder Reputation Lastly, reputable breeders also charge premium rates for their Labradoodle puppies. Ethical, reputable breeders put a lot of time, money, and effort into breeding and raising healthy and well-rounded pups. All of this reflects in the Labradoodle price. Professional breeders have learned all about health and genetic testing. See Also: Click the image In addition to that, reputable breeders know the importance of early socialization , training, and other enrichment methods. Ethical breeders also follow breeding guidelines set by established organizations we mentioned above. Many of them are also affiliated with the organizations and continuously keep educating themselves on the best breeding practices. How much does a Labradoodle cost when adopting a puppy from a professional, ethical breeder? Of course, there are many backyard breeders who have the best intentions in mind and only want to share the joy of this adorable crossbreed. However, oftentimes, these breeders might not conduct all the necessary health and genetic testing on their breeding dogs. Nor can they provide proper health guarantees for their puppies. Additionally, many backyard breeders do not choose new homes for the puppies as carefully as professional breeders. When a litter is born, they just sell all the puppies on a first come first serve basis. How much are Labradoodles when adopting from a backyard breeder? Puppy Mills Finally, we have the worst of the bunch — puppy mills. Unfortunately, these breeders only work for their own financial gain. More often than not, they neglect the wellbeing of their breeding dogs and puppies. Beware of pet stores, as well, as they often source their puppies from puppy mills. Puppy mills usually overbreed their mama dogs and keep them on tight schedules to produce more and more puppies. Meanwhile, the dogs and puppies are kept in unsafe and unclean environments, often in small cages and kennels. Moreover, these pups often come with serious health conditions. How much does a Labradoodle cost when adopting from a puppy mill? Above all, we urge you to avoid these breeders at all costs. As a general rule of thumb, larger, Standard Labradoodles require more calories per day compared to smaller, Mini and Medium Labradoodles. All of them are tried, tested, and recommended by Doodle owners. Training Training and early socialization both play a key role in raising well-rounded Labradoodles. Vet Visits One of the most expensive parts of owning a dog is taking your pup to regular vet visits and wellness checks. And to be prepared for those unexpected vet visits, we recommend you choose a trustworthy pet insurance company. During the first year, you should make sure that your puppy is up to date with all of its vaccinations and preventative care for worms, fleas, ticks , and heartworm. Grooming You might already know that Labradoodles are high-maintenance when it comes to grooming and coat care. Time Investment Like any other pet, Labradoodles require a lot of time and effort from your part. Other Costs In addition to all the Labradoodle costs we mentioned above, there are other everyday items that your dog will need. These include food and water bowls, dog beds, dog crate, a collar and a leash, toys and chew toys, and poop bags. So, you know with absolute certainty that the Labradoodle is the right pup for you. But how can you find quality Labradoodle breeders? As fellow Doodle owners, we know how difficult it can be to find ethical, reputable breeders in your area. Why Are Labradoodles Expensive? Ethical Labradoodle breeders charge higher prices for their pups, as they carefully screen the breeding dogs through extensive health and genetic testing. In addition to that, they provide their clients with genetic health guarantees and implement various forms of enrichment methods when rearing the puppies. How Much Does A Labradoodle Cost: Final Thoughts Adopting a dog is not just a huge emotional commitment, but also requires you to think whether or not your finances allow you to take care of another living being. Hopefully, this article has managed to answer all of your questions about the Labradoodle cost of adoption and the ongoing costs throughout their lifetime. Avoid making the mistake of choosing the wrong Doodle temperament for your family, lifestyle, or current living situation. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. If you are thinking that a Labradoodle might be a perfect addition to your family, you are right. They are friendly and intelligent dogs, and many have a low-shedding coat, which means they can be a good choice for families dealing with allergies or asthma. But exactly how much will it cost you to bring a Labradoodle home? The cost of a Labradoodle actually varies significantly depending on the specific dog and where you get it. We will go through all the things you are likely to have to pay for within the first six months of bringing the puppy home, and what you can expect to spend on the care and upkeep of your Labradoodle throughout their lives. The Cost Of Adopting A Labradoodle How much it will cost you to bring a Labradoodle into your household will vary significantly depending on where you get the puppy from. Whether you are looking for a standard Labradoodle or one of the small breeds that are the result of breeding a Labrador retriever with a miniature or toy poodle, also makes a difference, with the smaller dogs being more expensive. Why Are Labradoodles So Expensive? Labradoodles tend to be expensive because they are such desirable dogs. They are a mix of a Labrador retriever and a poodle, designed to be the perfect service dogs. Labrador retrievers have long been known as excellent working dogs because they are intelligent and motivated, which means they can be trained to complete the required tasks, and they also have a friendly and loving personality, so they know how to behave in public. This is essential when service dogs are able to enter public spaces that will be full of people, children, and other animals. However, the problem with Labradors is that they shed a lot. This means not only that they can be challenging to clean up after at home, but that they can be a health hazard in restaurants and places that need to maintain sanitary conditions, such as hospitals. Enter the poodle. Instead, the hair gets caught up in their coat and needs to be brushed out regularly. They are also highly intelligent, even more so than Labradors, which means they have a great ability to learn new tasks. They are also very loving, having been bred as companions, though they are a bit more wary of strangers than Labradors are. So the idea is that you combine a Labrador retriever and a poodle to get a Labradoodle, which has all the characteristics to work as a service dog and also has a low-shedding coat. But, since breeders are often catering to a specialist market, they do need to be careful to control for the characteristics they want. They need to be very careful to breed for the low-shedding coat since a Labradoodle naturally has an equal chance of inheriting a high-shedding Labrador coat and a friendly personality, as well as intelligence and an ability to learn. This is a lot of work for the breeder, so they charge more. The smaller pups cost even more because they are harder to breed due to the size difference between Labradors and small poodles. However, if you do come across a Labradoodle that does have the high-shedding coat of a Labrador, you might be able to get them a bit cheaper, as they will be harder to sell as service dogs. But be warned! It is almost impossible to tell whether a Labradoodle will have a low-shedding or high-shedding coat until they are at least 12 weeks old. With so much variation in the price of Labradoodles, it can be hard to know whether you are getting a good deal, or if you are being ripped off. Below are the main factors that affect the individual prices of Labradoodles and will push the price above or below the standard. These factors should help you determine whether a Labradoodle is being priced appropriately. Location Yes, just as housing costs more or less depending on where you live, the same is true of Labradoodles and all other dogs. Size As we have already said, size makes a big difference, and small Labradoodles that are the result of breeding between a Labrador retriever and either a miniature or toy poodle are significantly more expensive. This is because they are harder to breed, and they are also highly desirable pups. A mini Labradoodle can cost twice as much as a standard-sized version. Coat Type Labradoodles have three different coat types, which are classified as flat, wavy, or curly. Flat coats are most like the high-shedding coats of the Labrador, while curly coats are most like the low-shedding coats of poodles. Wavy coats fall somewhere in between. It will be no surprise to learn that curly coats are the most popular, and that dogs with these coats are more expensive. You might get a Labradoodle with a flat coat at a discount because they are shedders. This is easier to predict if you are breeding two Labradoodles that both already have the desired coat characteristics, but is very difficult to determine with first-generation Labradoodles. Coat Color Labradoodles come in a much wider range of colors than Labrador retrievers, and many of the more exotic coat colors are highly prized. Dogs like the Phantom Labradoodle and the Tuxedo Labradoodle are very coveted, and this can add significantly to the price of the dog. Breeder Reputation The fact of the matter is, when you are buying a dog from a breeder, you are putting a lot of faith into the assumption that everything they are telling you is true. They are the ones telling you that the parent pups have undergone extensive health screenings and that they have controlled for desirable characteristics. For this reason, reputation is very important among breeders, and you should always do a little bit of research on your breeder before purchasing. If you do find a good breeder with a reputation for producing happy and healthy pups, you can expect to pay more. They are at the top of the market, so they can afford to demand more money. Plus, good practice is usually more expensive to deliver. Additional Expenses When Buying A Labradoodle Puppy There are other expenses related to bringing a new puppy home beyond the price of the puppy itself. When you but a Labradoodle puppy from a reputable breeder, the price usually includes: Initial vaccination shots. A close up face image of Labradoodle puppy Max The price depends on many factors and can vary from breeder to breeder. While this might seem like a hefty price to pay for a puppy, the low prices that you find on social media or other ads are usually from puppy mills that try to over-breed these beloved animals in inappropriate and unethical ways. Low-quality living conditions notwithstanding, puppies from such places have a high probability of suffering from ailments and issues caused by genetic mutations occurring from rapid breeding. Labradoodle costs around the world In Australia the average prices for non-shedding Labradoodles ranged from AUD. There were some niche breeders that charged much more. Depending on how unique the coat color is, the price will vary. Parti-colored Labradoodles like Tuxedo Labradoodle or Phantom Labradoodle cost significantly more than a solid-colored cream, black, or gold Labradoodle. Sometimes, depending on your location, you may have to shell out extra dollars if you specifically want a multi-colored Labradoodle. Coat texture is another influencing factor. Shiny, sleek coats are more attractive and an indication of a superior bloodline. Hence, they are going to cost more. Curly and wavy-haired Labradoodles will be more expensive than straight-haired ones as they are almost non-shedding and hypoallergenic. Blue-eyed Labradoodles can be even more expensive, owing to their rarity and beauty. Labradoodle Size As they are crossbred, there are no specific breeding standards for Labradoodles. Most breeders classify Labradoodle puppy sizes as standard, medium, and miniature. Toy, teacup, miniature, and maxi are some other terms used to describe the size of Labradoodle dogs. The smaller the puppy size, the higher its price. This is because of the increased demand for smaller-sized dogs. Some breeders have their own standards and classifications when it comes to dog size and weight. While some breeders consider pound dogs as petite, others see them as miniature. Micro and petit are other terms that are used, both interchangeably and independently by different breeders. Usually, petit dogs fall in the pounds range, and micro dogs under 10 pounds. Age Typically, most people prefer buying a young puppy rather than a full-grown dog. Hence, prices are higher for puppies than dogs. For instance, a 6-month-old puppy is going to cost less than a 6-week-old one. A rich Apricot coat Labradoodle at the groomer. Generation Type Another determining factor is the percentage of each parent breed in the Labradoodle puppy. F1B generations have a purebred Poodle and an F1 generation Labradoodle as their parents. While this is a rarer generation, they are cheaper as their chances of being hypoallergenic is lesser than that of others. Generally, F1B Labradoodles are the most expensive generation as they have the highest chance of being hypoallergenic. Location and Demand The Labradoodle breed is one of the most popular crossbreed dogs, a close second to the Goldendoodles. This has significantly increased their value and demand. Dog breeders of bigger cities will have a large client pool and higher earnings. They usually have a hard time keeping up with the demands and hence have to increase their price. Breeders from rural areas have comparatively lower demand and charge less for their puppies. Nevertheless, the demand for low-shedding, hypoallergenic dogs is high everywhere, regardless of the size and popularity of a place. While it might be cheaper to buy your Labradoodle puppy from a rural breeder, you might still have to beat your budget to travel the extra distance or to have the puppy transferred to you. Although the low prices advertised at puppy mills might be tempting, getting a Labradoodle puppy from a reputed breeder is always a better option. Besides being spayed, neutered, and vaccinated, puppies from reputed breeders will also be appropriately socialized. This will make it easier for them to adapt to their new home. Most reputable breeders establish their prices based on their experience, investment, knowledge, credentials, and reputation with previous customers. Some breeders even incorporate training from a young age, and some puppies are potty trained at just eight weeks old. Reputed breeders also have health certificates and genetic records of both parent dogs in place. These certificates are proof that your Labradoodle is in the best of health and hygiene. Other Costs Associated With Labradoodles The preliminary cost of a Labradoodle will be substantially less than the total expenses involved throughout its life. Additionally, you might have to spend more on training foods and treats. Grooming The grooming needs of Labradoodles may vary depending on the type and length of their coat. Although Labradoodles are almost hypoallergenic, they need regular brushing and bathing. Medical Costs Most crossbreed dogs are usually less prone to ailments and diseases. Their larger gene pool also reduces their risk of inheriting diseases. One of the most common health issues with Labradoodle is hip dysplasia. And the surgical procedure to fix this is expensive, which is especially necessary for older Labradoodles. Besides this, there are other health care costs like vaccinations and regular veterinarian check-ups Ohio State Veterinary School source. It safeguards you against any unforeseen situations that may arise in the future with regard to its health. Training and Boarding Costs Although Labradoodles are very intelligent and highly trainable, it is advisable to enroll them in a professional training program to ensure their all-round development. It also helps address their excessive barking and jumping, which is common in Labradoodles. Labradoodles are high-energy dogs that can turn destructive when left alone for a long time. So whenever you go on trips, you will have to leave them at a doggie care center. Can Labradoodles smile? Ideally, you should purchase an adjustable crate whose length you can adjust as and when your puppy grows. Labradoodles are highly energetic dogs who need toys to maintain their mental stimulation and to keep them from getting destructive due to boredom. You might also have to make a one-time investment on a good quality bed as they often tend to chew and scratch at it. Labradoodle Adoption Price While you may want to get your Labradoodle puppy from a shelter, the chances are slim as Labradoodles are highly sought-after breeds that are usually kept in tight breeding groups. This is usually done to cover the cost of medical and maintenance care. Adopting a puppy from a rescue shelter is a noble idea, but you must also prepare to deal with any possible future problems with their health and temperament, as rescue dogs usually have health and behavior problems. My Miniature Labradoodle Max wearing a stylish rain coat Avoiding Disreputable Breeders The pet business has now emerged as one of the biggest industries worldwide. Unfortunately, this has also birthed unethical puppy mills, backyard breeders, and online pet stores, who have little to no knowledge about raising and nurturing puppies. Often, unsuspecting pet lovers trying to save some money fall prey to these tricks and end up with an unhealthy puppy with health and temperamental issues. This leads to them spending a lot of money on the treatment and maintenance of these puppies down the road. So, is there a way to distinguish between good and bad breeders and avoid paying exorbitant prices by accidentally supporting these puppy mills? Start by doing plenty of research on the breeder and consciously avoid backyard breeders, pet stores, and online stores. Additionally, look out for these red flags: Unusually low-priced puppies. The breeder refuses to show the living conditions of their dogs and puppies. Adult dogs are kept in harsh conditions and small cages. Puppies seem reserved, edgy, and nervous around people. The breeder has no health certificates of puppies and its parent dogs. Breeder refuses to provide any paperwork. Here are some standards and conventions practiced by trustworthy breeders: They breed puppies indoors and will take equal care of the parent dogs. They offer ample space and freedom to their puppies and dogs to run, play, sleep, and do everything they desire. They periodically clean and groom the dogs. They promote a healthy bonding of puppies with their mother and littermates. They try to gauge if you are capable of raising a particular dog breed. They offer tips and tricks on puppy care and maintenance. They have health and vaccination certificates from a licensed veterinarian. They offer proper legal protection like providing a guarantee for puppy replacement after around 1. Going through previous testimonials and customer reviews is another way of determining the credibility of a breeder. Find out how long the breeder has been in the business. Have a proper conversation with them and get all your puppy-related questions answered before you decide to get your puppy from them. With their love and affection, these bundles of joy can not only turn your bad days into wonderful ones, their high intelligence and alert minds also make them great guard dogs. Before purchasing a Labradoodle puppy, make sure to research the breeder and never get puppies from breeders who cannot provide health certificates for the puppies and their parents. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. While this is not actually required, it is highly suggested since it covers vet bills and emergency treatments for injuries. Most of these are optional except for emergency treatments. Owners who need service dogs should be prepared to spend more on special training classes. Dog Walking: Getting a Labradoodle means you get an active dog. For times when you cannot take your dog for a walk or play with them, you can hire a dog walker instead. Medical Emergencies: Expenses for medical emergencies are preferably avoided but are to be prepared for anyway. Accessories and Clothes: If you enjoy dressing up your Labradoodle, you would also want to buy different clothes and accessories for them. There are a lot of places that sell these, so you can either save or splurge. Again, these expenses can arise at specific points in time and can be optional. They also depend on you and how you want to spend on your Labradoodle. You can actually look for this popular breed from breeders or rescue shelters. Given that Labradoodles are well-loved and highly coveted, the chances of you finding this breed are pretty high. Here are some reputable breeders where you can find Labradoodle puppies for sale: Blueberry Cottage Labradoodles — This reputable breeder was from Connecticut and is now based on a acre family farm in West Wisconsin. They specialize in standard-sized Labradoodles that are guaranteed to be in good health. They offer a two-year health guarantee against hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and other genetic conditions. You can visit their website to check for available pups. Interested buyers are assured that their puppies undergo proper health testing and screenings, as well as microchipping and vaccinations. Their pups are also socialized early and are subject to a weekly training program. They specialize in breeding mini and medium-sized Labradoodles. You can find more breeders in our article on the 10 best Labradoodle breeders that are based in different states. While browsing, be sure to read our puppy buying guide so you can safely buy your Labradoodle online. An alternative to shopping for a Labradoodle is to adopt one from shelters, rescues, or adoption sites. They have been trusted and have been working hard for Labradoodles since .You can visit their website to learn more about their adoption process and see the available Labradoodles looking for their forever homes. Doodle Rescue Collective, Inc. They are dedicated to protecting Labradoodles and educating owners and dog enthusiasts. Labs and More — This rescue organization based in San Diego, California, has rescued more than 12, dogs since .They rescue large dogs and mixed breeds, including Labradoodles. You can visit their website, where they have a guide before adopting for those interested. Head over to our 10 best Labradoodle rescues article to find even more options and increase your chances of finding a Labradoodle. You can also visit your local shelter to look for Labradoodles up for adoption. Money-Saving Tips for Labradoodle Owners Knowing that taking care of Labradoodles costs a significant amount, any Labradoodle owner would want to save a few bucks in any way they can. To help, we came up with some cost-effective ways to care for your pooch. Here are some ways to cut down on expenses for your Labradoodle: Groom your Labradoodle at home. While professional groomers can save you time and provide proper grooming thanks to their training and skills, there is no doubt that they can charge quite a bit. Learning how to do basic grooming yourself, especially since this hybrid has a low shedding coat, can surely save you some money. Grooming sessions at home can also serve as quality time with your canine companion. Make dog food yourself. Store-bought dog food and treats are convenient, but the cost adds up. You can try making dog food at home, instead. Not only does this allow you to control what exactly you are feeding your pet, but it can also be cheaper. Buy good-quality items. Getting items that are of good quality and durable can be more expensive at the time of purchase but will actually save you money in the long run. Take your Labradoodle for regular vet visits. Emergency treatments and procedures often cost more than regular vet visits and can help you avoid an unhealthy puppy. Knowing what items to invest in and what to avoid can significantly reduce the cost of owning a Labradoodle. A little creativity and strategizing will go a long way. The expenses for this designer breed are far from cheap. However, you should know that this is nothing out of the ordinary since many popular crossbreed dogs also have similar costs. If you are one of the many people interested in Labradoodles, I hope this guide has helped you decide whether owning one is worth all the investment. We would love to hear your thoughts and insights in the comments below! Owners of Labradoodles are also welcome to share their tips and experiences on the different Labradoodle costs. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Our New Puppy Checklist gives you an easy way to keep track of items you already have and ones you still need to pick up. You will save you time, money, and loads of frustration…take my word for it! Get Your Copy Today! Everything that goes into making a good breeder adds value and factors into the price you pay. We recommend working with a quality breeder when getting a Labradoodle. We explain ways to identify reputable breeders and questions to ask in this article. Caring for the Puppies This goes beyond simply making sure the puppy has food and water. What kind of food are the puppies being fed? A good breeder will be able and willing to tell you this it also helps you prepare for bringing your puppy home. Puppies are like human babies — they are prone to getting sick early on. Smell the puppies! The puppies smelled clean and freshly bathed. Are the puppies receiving the proper vaccinations when they should be? Puppies have a schedule of preventive vaccination and immunizations they should be getting in the first year of their life. What about once you take the puppy home? Socialization and Stimulation Dr. This is so true! And it starts early on. From birth, the puppy should handled and all of their body parts touched paws, mouth, tail, stomach, ears, arms, and legs. This includes laying them on their back. Once a few weeks old, they should be getting exposed to people in a controlled environment our breeder has three kids, which are great puppy socializers. They should be exposed to different surfaces, noises, and encouraged to explore their surroundings, while not startling them too much or endangering them. Giving them this foundation makes training your puppy easier down the road and also makes them a much more adaptable pup. Be sure to head over to this article for valuable tips on continuing socialization after you bring your puppy home. Responsible Breeding Practices A quality breeder puts the overall well-being of their puppies far beyond the money they make from breeding. Get ready to fill out some paperwork! This goes back to their commitment to the overall well-being of the dogs they home. Visit this page to find a Labradoodle breeder near you. Quality Of The Breeding Stock Determining the quality of the breeder is pretty easy, while understanding the quality and genetics of the breeding stock takes a bit more research. Breeding Stock Genetics This part is expensive but is critical to the breeding process for Labradoodles, because certain health conditions often appear within the breed. If a breeder starts with a sire father and dam mother with poor genetics or disease and health problems, what effect will this have on their litter? This part is usually overlooked or neglected by non-reputable breeders because it involves costly genetic testing and screening done by organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals source. Our breeder offered an month replacement guarantee, which was really great see below. We checked the social media accounts of different breeders we were considering to see what others were saying. Talk to the breeder in advance. See how knowledgeable they are about the breed. Come with some good questions that you know the answers to, and compare their responses. Ask the breeder what all goes into the cost of their Labradoodles. Ask them what they do with the puppies regarding socialization. Related Questions: Should I visit breeders before making my decision to purchase a Labradoodle? We highly recommend that you schedule a visit to see any and all breeders you are considering getting a Labradoodle from. Will the breeder require a deposit for the puppy? They may also ask you to pay another portion of the total cost once the puppy is born, to help with costs of caring for them. Why are Labradoodles such a popular breed? Labradoodles are popular and highly regarded for many reasons, including their great personalities , family and allergy-friendly nature, and their low-to-no shed coats. After all, they do become part of the family, right? Grab your copy today! Related Posts:. However, some pups exchange hands for even more, if they have something which makes them especially desirable examples of what that might be coming up! You may also see Labradoodle puppies advertised for far less. This should be a red flag. A good breeder spends a great deal of money to produce a healthy litter. The costs of breeding a healthy litter include: Health screening for the parents. Travel and accommodation to meet a suitable stud dog. Veterinary costs for mom and her litter. Extra food. Whelping supplies, such as a whelping box, heat mats, and bedding. Time off work to look after mom, and start socializing her puppies. Backyard breeders, puppy mills, and online sellers may offer puppies at bargain prices, but only by cutting their own costs first. So their puppies are more likely to leave home with inherited health problems that require expensive treatment later. Or with behavioral problems like separation anxiety or stranger-directed aggression, which are difficult or impossible to overcome. Lots of people are overwhelmed by the upfront cost of a well bred puppy. Adopting a dog from a shelter is one way to find a dog for less, but without supporting unethical breeding practices. And some regions even have dedicated rescue organizations which specialize in rehoming Labradoodles and other Poodle crosses. This is a much less expensive route and adoption fees often cover things like initial vaccinations and microchipping. Such as whether they carry any late-onset inherited diseases, or are reactive to certain triggers. What Factors Determine Labradoodle Cost? There are a number of factors which may make people willing to pay more for a Labradoodle. Breeder Good breeders are rarely in it for the money. Even if they sell their puppies for a more money than they spent on them, the profit divided by the number of hours they spent caring the dam and her litter works out in cents! All breeders have their own personal philosophy on pricing pups. They might have a reputation and a waiting list which means they can charge more than the competition. They might also charge highly to deter people from buying their puppies on impulse. Provided you ask politely, a reputable breeder will be happy to explain how they arrived at the cost of their puppies. But a breeder who refuses to discuss how they set their price at all may be attempting to cover up the fact that their puppies have been very poorly raised and are not worth the asking price. Breeding Stock Breeders who invest in meticulous health screening of their sire and dam may pass the cost of that onto their buyers, and they have every right to do so. Puppies from thoroughly health tested parents cost more upfront, but they are likely to cost less in lifetime veterinary fees. Labradoodle puppies from parents with show or field titles may also be advertised at higher prices. The puppies of Labradoodles that have been backcrossed with a purebred Poodle will have a greater chance of inheriting the Poodle coat. Other factors There are other things which might affect Labradoodle costs too. For example, in cities and urban areas, miniature Labradoodles might command higher prices than standard Labradoodles. Some factors have nothing to do with the dog at all. For example, many reputable breeders avoid producing litters around Christmas time to avoid buyers passing them on as gifts to other people, or buying them on impulse without really thinking it through. Low quality breeders on the other hand, tend to push their prices up at this time of year. The Cost of Owning a Labradoodle in the First Year Whether you go a shelter or a breeder, adoption fees and purchase price are only the beginning of what it costs to own a Labradoodle. The first year will typically be the most expensive because this is when most major expenses occur. Such as Having the dog spay or neutered. Training classes. Accessories like a crate, bedding, toys, collar and leash. Labradoodles have a high frequency of joint disorders such as hip and elbow dysplasia, which may require expensive monthly prescriptions to manage. Bringing a puppy into your life comes with the responsibility to keep him healthy and happy. From food to medical costs, from toys to grooming, there a number of regular expenses that come with owning a dog. Food is such an essential part of ensuring your dog is healthy and there is a wide range of commercial dog foods available. You can spend tens, or hundred of dollars per month! Always choose a good quality food that lists animal protein as the first ingredient and avoid brands that include meat by-products, fillers, and artificial ingredients that can cause gastrointestinal problems and allergic reactions. This article on feeding a Labradoodle puppy can guide you. Feeding your dog a healthy diet and ensuring an active dog like the Labradoodle gets enough exercise will go a long way to reducing medical costs. However, any dog can develop health issues that require treatment that can run into thousands of dollars. Health problems that the Labradoodle can be susceptible to include: Hip and elbow dysplasia.