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Our German Shepherd Kennels are located in Southwest Michigan and we offer to ship nationwide, and delivery services. We created this German Shepherd Kennel for the serious German Shepherd enthusiast who is committed to maintaining these world-class pedigrees, and working heritage set forth over a century ago carried on through the Verein Fur Deutche Schaeferhunde Club. Our commitment is only matched by our love for the breed and its extraordinary capabilities. In Germany, Purebred German Shepherd Breeders would be required to show their dogs at the German Sieger Shows to obtain breeding titles, which would continue to improve the breed. VA4 Taifun vom St. DM stands for Degenerative Myelopathy. There has only been a few stud dogs in the history of the breed that have ever produced a vise world sieger and Uran is one of them. Kolenda Kennels is a German Shepherd Breeder that is a personalized kennel and dedicated to improving the breed, located at th Ave Dorr, Michigan , located in Grand Rapids Michigan area. When buying a puppy it is a good ideal to visit the kennel. You should be able to interact with their dogs, especially the mom and dad of the puppy you are considering. This is the only way to check the temperament of their breeding dogs. By visiting the kennel you can inspect the cleanliness of the facility, and how the puppies are being taken care of. You can interact with the puppies and also, check the temperament of the puppies themselves and over all health. By visiting the kennel you will also be able to see the over all looks and structure of the breeding dogs. By doing these things this would help improve the German Shepherd Breed itself. It would make it difficult to breed and sell inferior puppies, which would help keep the breed from deteriorating. When my wife and I decided to make being German Shepherd Dog Breeders our full-time career we decided to put together a German Shepherd Kennel that is dedicated to breeding the best Imported German Shepherds. This way, we could offer this beautiful, outstanding tempered dog to the public. This involves handling neonatal puppies in a variety of positions in order to help stimulate and develop their neurological systems, increase stress tolerance, promote stronger heart beats, immune systems and adrenal glands. We have also started baby nose work on our puppies. Puppies with the most aptitude may be available to homes looking for service dogs for diabetes, epilepsy, search and rescue etc. Puppies receive different activities that are a part of the Puppy Culture Program. These activities are based on the age of the puppy versus their development. Those puppies that have rear dew claws will have them removed by our vet, we do leave front dew claws on our shepherd puppies. We invite those that have deposits on puppies to come to the 6 week vet check. There is a lot that goes into raising our puppies so that they make perfect companions! Parents of our puppies have appropriate health certifications including more than just hip and elbows. Our parents often have shoulders, PennHIP, eyes, heart and other certifications. Parents of our puppies often have Top Show Championship titles and recognitions as well as performance titles. I do work with newbies. You can contact me for details. The reason I like to keep homes closer by is to be able to mentor the homes since I often have newbies in my co-ownership program. As always, if you have an interesting proposition, please let me know. I do have dogs on Coownership in the state of Washington, so if you have an interesting proposition, as said, let me know. Email [email protected] and ask for a puppy questionnaire and fill out and return to me 3. If I do not have a puppy questionnaire or deposit from you, you do not have a puppy reserved. I accept deposits on litters once the litter is born so I know I have proper gender and color I may not know coat length until the litter is weeks of age or if gene testing is done. If you are close and have filled out the questionnaire, you can come and visit the litter and leave a deposit. Those further out should consider Priority mail or Overnight. I do encourage you to come and visit the litter and socialize with the puppies. I allow people to come over as long as they have not visited another litter, dog show, stable, farm, zoo, rescue etc within a week of coming over to visit this litter to keep potential diseases out of my home. I am sorry, but I do not ship puppies. You must come to pick up your puppy. I have had a person as far as New Mexico drive in to pick up his puppy, and one couple came in three times for three different puppies over the years from Massachusetts. You also have the option to fly in and take the puppy back with you in a Sherpa bag.I have had people fly in and take puppies back in Sherpa bags from as far west at Washington and California, as far east as Maine, and as far south as Georgia. I have also had a couple puppies that went to Europe that went with their new owner who flew in for them. I will meet you at the Detroit Metro airport in these instances. Nike is also pictured when she was younger.

Airy Animal Hospital, they will have had their first round of booster shots, been wormed and microchipped. All of the puppies from Belquest Kennels come with a four generation pedigree, and are registered with the American Kennel Club. We keep a puppy or two from each litter to carry on the bloodlines at Belquest. Our lines go back to some of the finest kennels in the world. Labrador and Golden Retrievers are not all alike. Through the years we have practiced selective breeding which has developed puppies with a wonderful temperament Which is the Hallmark of these Breeds working ability, and good looks of a beautiful Labrador or Golden. Our puppies have grown to become Service dogs, Guide Dogs, Hunting dogs, and terrific family pets. Visits to the Kennel are welcomed by appointment. We would like to get to know you and have you meet our crew. Feel free to email us to set up a time or to answer any questions you may have. Flight nanny to bring your puppy to you by airline or Transportation by vehicle can be arranged. Belquest is very experienced in all facets of continental and international shipping. All puppies are dewormed on vet recommended protocol. All puppies are microchipped and have received their first puppy shot and Bordetella vaccines, Health Certificate and negative fecal report prior to going home. We do extensive health testing on our dogs. We never know how many healthy pups will be born or sexes, colors etc. All of the puppies from Belquest Kennels come with a four generation pedigree, and are registered with the American Kennel Club. We keep a puppy or two from each litter to carry on the bloodlines at Belquest. Our lines go back to some of the finest kennels in the world. Labrador Retrievers are not all alike. Through the years we have practiced selective breeding which has developed puppies with a wonderful temperament Which is the Hallmark of these Breeds working ability, and good looks of a beautiful Labrador. Our puppies have grown to become Service dogs , Guide Dogs, Hunting dogs, and terrific family pets. Visits to the Kennel are welcomed by appointment. We would like to get to know you and have you meet our crew. Feel free to email us to set up a time or to answer any questions you may have. Puppies can leave to go to their forever home at 8 weeks of age. Belquest is very experienced in all facets of continental and international shipping. We also can arrange a flight nanny, personal hand delivery of your puppy to you at your airport and the puppy travels under the seat during take-off and landing. Also available is transportation by vehicle can be arranged to bring the puppy to your home.

Can puppies eat carrots? A Toy Box. This is better than having all of the toys down at the same time as puppies quickly become bored. If you like, you can allow your pup to have a look at the box each morning and choose their own toys for the day! Should I let my puppy play with a box? Do puppies like cardboard boxes? Well, first of all, dogs love to chew. So, your dog might just find the cardboard to be a fun and exciting chew toy. Shredding a cardboard box to pieces is a lot of fun. Do dogs like to be in boxes? Introducing … busy boxes! Not only do dogs love receiving these boxes, but they provide an appropriate opportunity for your dog to think, chew and enjoy. Can dogs play with cardboard box? Although it is not toxic to your pet, it is indigestible. Do puppies need blankets at night? Indestructible bedding is best for a puppy. Avoid blankets and towels, which a puppy can reduce to shreds and then swallow. How long do 8 week old puppies sleep? Most puppies will sleep about 18 to 20 hours a day to support their fast-growing brains and bodies. Puppies from 8 to 12 weeks old may seem to go from zero to 60 out of nowhere, then suddenly pass out to nap within minutes of being in overdrive. Why do dogs like to sleep in boxes? Each dog has his own space and often is fond of sleeping in his or her kennel. Some dogs simply feel more secure in confined surroundings. Not every dog likes small, confined spaces. What happens if a puppy eats cardboard? No, cardboard is not usually toxic to dogs. Eaten in small quantities, it is unlikely to cause any problems to your pet. Most dogs will be fine after eating a small amount of cardboard or paper. How can I get my puppy to stop nipping? However, this is completely normal for puppy teething and necessary for development, and something you can train away with a few simple steps. Teach your puppy bite inhibition. Can a puppy sleep in a cardboard box? The box should be big enough for the puppy to stretch out and sleep but not so large that he can move away from any mess he makes. It should be tall enough so that he cannot climb out. Is cardboard bad for puppies? The key here is to keep an eye on them, and look out for the following symptoms: Diarrhea. Can I put my puppy in a box at night? Are toilet rolls bad for dogs? Eating toilet paper can lead to serious digestive issues. At the very least, your pup may experience an upset stomach as the toilet paper passes through their system. This could cause vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and lethargy. How do you entertain a dog with a cardboard box? To help dog owners, The Dog's Trust has shared eight fun ways to turn cardboard boxes and toilet roll tubes into DIY dog games — and they're incredibly easy for everyone to have a go at. From activities involving their favourite treats, to games using things you may have left over from online deliveries, there are many ways you can keep your dog active, without stepping outside your front door. Want to give them a go? Take a look at the games below.Creating a figure eight how-to video above 1. This game is a simple way to introduce some fun into your pup's day. First, get two cardboard boxes and set them apart at a little distance. Next, hold your dog's favourite toy or treat in one hand and slowly start to move them in a figure of eight around the two items, swapping the reward into your other hand at the centre point. One arm will guide your dog around the item to the left and the other arm will guide your dog around the item to your right. Repeat several times until you've got the movement smooth and well-rehearsed. Digging game For this game, you will need an empty cardboard box and some old scrunched-up newspaper. All you have to do is tear the newspaper into pieces you can also use regular paper, too and place into the box. Drop in some treats or toys, and watch your dog dig away! Paws-up game This game is incredibly simple but also mentally stimulating for your pup. Take the cardboard box and see if you can get them to put their front paws on the box. Then switch it over and see if they can put their back feet up. Bowling balls Take your empty kitchen roll tubes and grab a soft fabric dog ball. Have a competition with your pup and see how many of the tubes you can knock down. It's a great way to create a bond with your pet. Create a tunnel for your pup For this game, you will need to cut the sides of a few boxes and line them up to make your own DIY tunnel. Encourage your dog to go through the tunnel by hiding treats at the end. Perfect to do inside if you don't have a garden. Memory game This game is great for helping to jog your dog's memory. Lay out multiple boxes in a semi-circle and pop a treat in one of them make sure your dog sees you do this. Next, hold up a sheet to block your dog's vision and then drop it to see if they remember which box the treat was in. Keep playing the game to see how many times they get it right. Related Story Dog games to play with your pup 7. Snoot challenge To play this game, cut a hole out of your box and see if your dog can poke their nose through it. It's a fun way to keep them entertained during lockdown. Teach your dog to read To begin with, start by writing down different words such as sit, down and paw on different boxes. Once you've written the words on the boxes, speak them aloud and ask your dog to do what it says. Remember to reward your pup with a tasty treat once they have guessed it correctly. Like this article? Sign up to our newsletter to get more articles like this delivered straight to your inbox. Can Puppies Chew on Cardboard? Raising dogs can be fun, but it takes all the responsibility of raising a child. Knowing what behaviors should and shouldn't concern puppy owners helps puppies receive the responsible care that they need. Puppies can chew on cardboard. Cardboard is not toxic, it won't hurt them, and it doesn't cause sickness. Chewing on cardboard is also a good activity during teething as it helps them to learn about their environment. However, get them to stop early on to prevent bad habits of chewing later. While carboard isn't toxic to puppies, it can be indicative of various health issues and should still be regulated. It can also lead to bad habits that should lead puppy owners to consider other creative, energy-engaging activities for their pets to enjoy. Why is it Okay? Chewing on cardboard is okay simply because it isn't toxic to puppies, and it doesn't have any negative effects on their teeth. In fact, especially at the puppy age, it can be an enrichment activity as puppies learn about the world around them. Teething will also be an uncomfortable period of growth, and puppies will be looking for ways to numb the pain. Think about puppies as though they were a human baby. As babies grow, they become more mobile and curious about the world around them and their teeth. During this growth period, they will learn to chew on soft foods, and they'll probably shove an unidentified object into their mouth, that they picked up off the ground, and that their parent will spend the next 30 seconds trying to dig out. Ultimately, they'll be fine, if not a bit confused. Puppy owners can expect the same for their small canine friends. Chewing on a bit of cardboard as their teeth come in, and maybe even swallowing a small piece or two, won't do any harm to the puppy. They're just trying to experience their environment through tastes and textures, and relieve some pressure on their growing teeth. Can it Be a Bad Habit? While chewing cardboard is fine, it can lead to bad habits, as well as become a health issue. Chewing and then eating cardboard begins to become a health issue if large amounts are ingested. Because cardboard isn't digestible , it can cause an intestinal blockage, which will lead to symptoms such as appetite loss, weight loss, weakness, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Ingesting too much cardboard is perhaps the worst it will do to a puppy. However, other results of chewing cardboard can result in annoying behaviors for their owners. If a puppy really loves chewing cardboard, it may start to seek out cardboard and similar items on its own. These items might be toilet paper, books, and yes, homework. Some people use cardboard boxes to store important documents which will lead to double trouble for unsupervised puppies! As puppies find similar chewy textures around the house, the potential for them to create surprise messes will grow. In order to keep chewing cardboard from becoming a destructive habit, it will be important to regulate the activity as soon as a puppy is introduced to it. How To Regulate Chewing on Cardboard Firstly, knowing why puppies chew can help their owners better understand when the behavior is good and when it is getting out of hand. Chewing behavior can be caused by several different issues. At its most basic root, it may be a result of your puppy teething. Puppies may teethe from two weeks of age to eight months, at which point they should have their adult teeth. Because of this, as was mentioned earlier, chewing on cardboard may be an activity of relief or curiosity during this period of growth. Additionally, excessive chewing in a puppy can potentially indicate a health issue known as pica, which is when pets eat or chew unconventional things. In puppies, it may look like an especially unnatural penchant for chewing—and eating—cardboard and other paper products. The behavior can be addressed by ensuring that puppies are receiving proper nutrients and exercise, or by mixing up the variety of toys and food that puppies receive. Not all chewing behavior is meant to be interpreted as pica. As long as puppies are receiving proper care for all their health needs and display other healthy chewing behaviors, chances are that their cardboard chewing habits are not detrimental. In order to ensure that chewing on cardboard doesn't lead to destructive habits, the best action that puppy owners can take is to regulate how often and how long puppies are allowed to chew on cardboard. Because chewing on cardboard can lead to puppies destroying other paper products, and even books, they should be constantly supervised when gnawing on this particular toy. If puppies begin to seek out cardboard on their own, their owners can take the opportunity to remove the unregulated item and redirect them to a variety of toys to chew on, such as bones, balls, or a noise-making toy. Playing with puppies will also focus their energy on the toy being used, and create fun memories at the same time! Another solution may be the simple fix of getting them a meal. Slow feeders for puppies can help them to get proper nutrients, as well as chewing stimulation from slower eating. Introducing a variety of slow feeders can help stimulate a growing puppy's mind, allowing them to divert their focus from cardboard. Lastly, if regulating their interactions with cardboard isn't doing enough to keep them from seeking it out on their own, then puppy owners may need to puppy-proof the house by keeping cardboard and similar items out of the reach of their pets. This may look like reorganizing bookshelves, moving tissue boxes onto high shelves, keeping important documents secure, closing bathroom doors, and either using a more secure disposal for recyclables or moving them to the garage. All in all, if a puppy is just enjoying a moment to gnaw on the corner of a box, there isn't anything to worry about. Let them explore the world around them and see what else they might discover! Cindy J. Cindy is a prolific writer and online researcher who can't imagine life without dogs. There is scarcely a dog topic she has not researched or written about. Her love for dogs and helping dog parents is evident by the thousands of dogtemperament. Most of all, each topic Cindy writes on helps forge a stronger bond and understanding between her and her happy Catahoula Leopard Dog Jossie. Why Do Dogs Love Cardboard? Many dog lovers have noticed their dog has a special love for cardboard boxes or paper towel rolls. And, is it a reason to worry? Why would our dogs love it so much? Especially when they have their delicious doggy food. Well, first of all, dogs love to chew. So, your dog might just find the cardboard to be a fun and exciting chew toy. Shredding a cardboard box to pieces is a lot of fun. Pieces go flying. And your dog has made a huge accomplishment. He fought a cardboard box… and he won. But… if eating items other than their food becomes compulsive your dog could have pica. Pica is a condition where our dogs or humans eat foreign items. Instincts or Boredom? The cardboard, or paper, could also be an instinct thing. Hear me out. When paper or cardboard is shredded, could you imagine it feeling like feathers in their mouth? Our dog could just be plain out bored. And, when dogs are bored, they will find themselves something to do. As the saying goes, a tired dog is a happy dog. The main worry we have with a dog eating cardboard is that it could obstruct their intestines. The treatment might range from stool softeners to surgery, but you want them to make the decision. Stop Chewing the Toilet Paper Rolls There are a couple of behavioral issues that could be causing your dog to eat cardboard. Before diving into the behavioral side of things , you should first talk to your veterinarian. Better safe than sorry in all of these situations. The first step on the behavior side of the spectrum… find out if your dog is just plain out bored. Take him for an extra walk. And, play with her a little longer than usual. You can even try a mental stimulation toy for dogs- like a puzzle. Yes, there are puzzles just for dogs. Brain Puzzles for Dogs Brain puzzles for dogs give your dog a job. They give your dog a sense of purpose. Before you start breaking them down and putting them in the recycling, you can find useful ways to reuse them around the house. For pet owners, there is only one rightful place for those unused boxes and your animals will make sure to let you know! Whether you have cats, dogs, bunnies, hamsters, or birds, a cardboard box makes for hours of entertainment for your pet! Cats, as we all know, have the biggest personalities. From knocking things off counters and attacking your feet, to following you around the house and rubbing themselves all over you to show their affection. Although every cat has its own unique personality, you can almost always count on them to fall in love with a simple cardboard box. There are a few reasons that cats absolutely adore cardboard boxes: Cave Like Enclosure — Despite being domesticated and comfortable in your home, cats have natural instincts. They are both predators and prey in the wild so they feel the need to observe their surroundings in a safe, secure place. Safe Zone — Cats simply love confined spaces. Cardboard boxes provide cats with comfort and security and allow them to hide from unwanted attention and relax. Insulated — Cats tend to feel more comfortable at a much higher temperature than us humans. This of course depends on multiple factors including breed, hair length, and more. Cardboard boxes are an excellent insulator, cats can stay nice and warm which is another huge draw for them. Scratching Post — Some cats love to scratch and while there are many different types of scratching contraptions on the market for your cat, a cardboard box will often take the cake. So, you might as well put them to use! You can cut holes, build tunnels or even build a whole kitty castle. Your cat will love it and you! There are several reasons why dogs chew such as teething pain, cleaning their teeth, and strengthening their jaw. However, not all chewing can signify a healthy behavior as some chewing can be a result of boredom, anxiety, and other issues. Can Dogs Eat Cardboard Boxes? Although it is not toxic to your pet, it is indigestible. A small amount of cardboard consumed by your dog during play is unlikely to cause a problem and not concerning. In order to prevent your dog from eating cardboard, you should always monitor them while they play with the material. If your dog has a continued tendency to eat cardboard, consider another option for mentally stimulating them. Bunnies are becoming more and more popular as household pets. They are each unique in their own way and full to the brim with personality and energy. Rabbits love to be mentally stimulated and they have their own special category of toys that are very different from a traditional cat or dog toy. They love chewing, tossing, digging, and pushing around their toys. Cardboard provides an all-in-one solution! Insider tips: Fill your cardboard rolls with hay and other fun snacks to pique their interest. Rip up small bits of cardboard and paper into another cardboard box to create a digging box. Put a few treats or pellets in the box to get them to dig and forage for food. Can Bunnies Eat Cardboard? Cardboard is perfectly okay for your bunny to chew on, shred and tear apart. A small amount of ingestion is also inevitable and not a concern when it comes to rabbits, however, it is important to closely monitor how much cardboard your bunny may be consuming. Rabbits have delicate digestive systems and too much cardboard can cause obstructions and other issues. Keep an eye on your rabbits when playing with their cardboard toys until you can determine what kinds of habits your bunny may have. If they consume their cardboard while playing, try limiting their time or the amount of cardboard you give them to prevent any digestion issues. At The Packaging Company, we know how important your pets are to your family. We are not only happy to hear that our natural cardboard boxes provide safe spaces and hours of fun for your pets, but we are thrilled to see them being reused before they are sent to compost or recycling. We love when customers repurpose our materials, so much so we wrote a whole other blog about it, check out how to repurpose your moving supplies today! Submit a Comment Your email address will not be published.

For your convenience, we provide many options for your method of payment. We take pride in our exceptional service throughout the adoption process and encourage you to call us at any time with questions. Each of these litters takes years of planning to produce. Due to their popularity, these spots fill up quickly. There are usually quite a few families on our Small Goldendoodle waitlist anxiously awaiting the arrival of a new litter. Most people don't realize how long it takes a breeder to breed down to this size. Each of our litters is a four-generation process that has taken approximately 8 years of planning. These litter sizes are small therefore the spaces are extremely limited. We do not breed very many Extra-Small litters, therefore the waitlist can be a bit longer. Like our Small Goldendoodles, Extra-Small litters are a four to five-generation process that has taken approximately 8 years of planning. This breed is completely exclusive to Smeraglia. These puppies are guaranteed to become one of our most popular breeds. We breed this design only four times a year, therefore spots can be extremely limited. Avoid this fee with a Bank Draft or by mailing a check or money order. Subscribe Stay up to date with us, our whereabouts, and events in your area. Welcome to Sunshine Acres, where our Goldendoodle puppies enjoy interacting with our family throughout each day. As experienced, ethical Goldendoodle Breeders we help match many families to their wonderful Irish Goldendoodle puppy. What are you looking for in your new puppy? A walking buddy, a cheer-giver, a friend of children? In your quest for a healthy, loving Goldendoodle, we can help match you with your ideal puppy. We are available with tips and advice to make the choosing easier since we interact with each puppy daily since birth. Let us know what characteristics you are looking for in your Goldendoodle puppy so we can point you to the puppies or litter that best matches those traits. Our puppies are born here. They are lovingly raised by our family. Because of this, we know not only their individual health history and temperament, but the history of their parents. We are glad to be a source of knowledge for you, not only before your Goldendoodle puppy comes home, but for the many years after, as well. Relationships are important to us and we are interested in watching our puppies integrate into your families and your lives. Featured Puppies. More Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Regardless of generation, golden doodles have a consistent record of being extremely intelligent, easily trained, and most importantly, having a loving, friendly, outgoing temperament. F1 doodles possess all of the wonderful traits that make retrievers and poodles such desirable pets. This includes incredible intelligence, a loving demeanor, and hypoallergienic qualities. This makes them better for homes with only slight or moderate allergies. F1 doodles tend to have a shaggy or wavy coats, but can occasionally have a very curly coat. This generation has become the most popular generational breed for those looking for the most hypoallergenic dog. F1Bs are the best option for families with moderate to severe allergies. They are known to exhibit the same favorable personality traits and behaviors as F1 doodles with the exception of shedding! F1B doodles came in a wide range of colors depending on their family pedigree. We strive to produce puppies with the very best temperaments and personalities, and the health and overall condition of our puppies is a top priority. All of our puppies come with a two-year health guarantee, have been vet-checked, have received their first shots and have been wormed on a regular basis. We provide thorough socialization, as all of our puppies are raised in our home with our four children, our four goldendoodles and one bernedoodle furbabies, and loving extended family. Our puppies will be exceptional due to our high standard breeding methods, the intensive level of care we provide, and most importantly, the tremendous love we have for these amazingly intelligent, sweet, and loving furbabies. So, if you would like more information about our puppies, please fill out the puppy application on our website. We will call you to discuss your preferences and our upcoming litters. She weighs 42lbs and is red in color. She was bred with Enzo, and F1 miniature weighing 35lbs. Their pups will be F2b and should range between lbs. They will be ready to go home at the end of April. Pictures of Ana, Enzo, and their last litter are posted below. She weighs 78 lbs and has tri color markings like a Bernese Mountain Dog. She was bred with Charlie, and moyen poodle weighing 35lbs. Their pups will be F1b and should range between lbs. Pictures of Winnie, Charlie, and their last litter are posted below. If you are interested in a puppy, please fill out a puppy application and email it back to us at saratogagoldendoodles gmail. We will, however, refund the deposit if there is only one puppy left to choose from and this puppy is not a good match for your family! If this occurs you can switch your deposit to another puppy or litter, or we will refund the deposit for you. We do understand all too well that lives change and sometimes getting a puppy needs to wait. So if you are unable to take a puppy when we call, you may use your deposit for a future litter or depending on the circumstances, at our discretion, we may refund your deposit. We do reserve the right to refuse sale to any person whom we feel is not the best choice for one of our fur-babies. Please see the "Right of Refusal" section below. As soon as our puppies are born, I call all of the families on the deposit list. People chose their puppy in the order that their deposits arrived and based on our recommendations. We ultimately will decide if a puppy you are thinking of choosing is a best fit. We also reserve the right to hold certain puppies for individuals that have health related concerns severe allergies, anxiety, autism, to name a few that require a certain type of coat or personality. You can opt to take that spot or wait on another litter. Families will come in, one at a time according to their deposit order. Should you come and not fall in love with one of our fur-babies or find the right match, you can choose to pass to another litter. The remainder of the purchase price is paid on the day the puppy is picked up or delivered to you. Standard Goldendoodles can weigh anywhere between 50 and 90 pounds. Personality The place where the Goldendoodle puppy really excels is its personality. Its breed is known for being simultaneously intelligent and adoring. A Goldendoodle puppy is very sociable, which makes them perfect animals for households with children and other animals or pets, even cats. Just like the Labradoodle, this breed requires correct socialization to ensure they get used to different sights, sounds and smells during puppyhood. This means taking your Goldendoodle to plenty of doggy-friendly parks so they can meet canine friends and introducing them to other people. Our Goldendoodle puppies for sale are fully trained Doodles, so you can focus on the fun bits, like bonding, eating food and playing. These dogs prefer to live in a house with a gated backyard where they can get regular exercise breaks. Do They Like to Play? Goldendoodle Puppy Training These clever dogs are perfect for first-time dog owners because Goldendoodles love to please and take great pride in learning new skills. Are Goldendoodles Intelligent? Both of its poodle and golden retriever parent breeds are known for their intelligence and trainability, and Goldendoodles have inherited this breed trait. This means the person training a Goldendoodle needs to be strong-willed, firm and consistent — but never harsh or aggressive. Much like a poodle, Doodles are sensitive dogs, and positive reinforcement is a must to bring out the best in them. How Obedient Are They? Goldendoodle pups adore human company, and making their pet parents happy brings them genuine satisfaction. As such, correct puppy training produces a highly obedient and loyal adult Goldendoodle. Older adults, people with disabilities and individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders can benefit significantly from the warmth and sweetness of these adorable Goldendoodle pups. Are They Easy to Train? Doodle puppies can be mischievous and cheeky, but aggression is practically unheard of. So as long as you treat them with the same gentle respect they offer, a Goldendoodle is one of the easiest dog breeds to train. Goldendoodles have loads of energy and require regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and calm temperament. A Goldendoodle need a moderately high level of outdoor activity — usually a minimum of 30 minutes, but ideally one hour, of moderate to vigorous exercise per day will keep Goldendoodle puppies at their best. Unlike puppy mills, all good puppy and dog breeders provide a certificate that shows health clearances. At Pride and Prejudoodles, our tests cover common health conditions. As such, you have peace of mind when purchasing your new puppy from us. How Long Do Goldendoodles Live? Goldendoodles live for between 10 and 15 years. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Goldendoodle puppies for adoption. The size range of the female English Golden Retrievers I have owned range from lbs. In my 20 years of breeding English Teddy Bear Goldendoodles I am achieving a very good consistency with creating sizes. I am at the forefront of creating and perfecting the Pocket Size lbs. Micro is then a huge classification of any puppy less than 14 lbs. Whether you call them Micro Goldendoodles, Micro Petite Goldendoodles, Toy Goldendoodles, Teacup Goldendoodles; they all have the same great personality as their larger Goldendoodle ancestors in a cute small little package. Here at Hilltop Pups, we only breed Poodles with English Golden Retrievers for their excellent health record with an average life span of years. Absolutely no other breeds mixed in to rush the downsizing. Downsizing takes several generations by breeding in a smaller size poodle every 2 to 3 generations to retain the English Golden Retriever personality. Our smallest poodle here is 3 lbs. Since Hilltop Pups team is creating and perfecting the smallest Goldendoodles along with the increasingly popular Irish English Goldendoodles; we have our own size range chart of the average sizes we have witnessed in the past 20 years of breeding. Until an organization such as AKC or CKC identifies Goldendoodles as an official breed, no organization can state what the size standards are as they vary so greatly with breeders breeding American or English Golden Retrievers, plus the range of poodle sizes from lbs. Although Goldendoodles are not considered a Purebred dog breed; it is still important to register your puppy with a reputable canine tracking organization. This will allow breeders to have the information necessary to make responsible breeding decisions. I am an official Preferred Breeder by the strict Breeding Standards set forth by CKC which has the best pedigrees for tracking ancestors for breeding purposes. There are many Designer Dog Registries, but I prefer one of the two largest reputable groups. The English lines create the Teddy Bear look. The English Golden Retrievers have short stocky legs and shorter body length, whereas, American Golden Retrievers can have long bodies and are taller. From there we will have a better understanding of your wants and needs, to properly answer your questions. At Hilltop Pups you get the honor of choosing your puppy with our expert assistance of course. We do not assign puppies to you. We allow visitors because we are proud of our establishment. Beware of Breeders not allowing you to visit and hiding behind Parvo to scare you off. Google Earth those Breeders addresses and names. If you cannot find their name and address on their website immediately exit their website, they are hiding something such as arrest record for cruelty to animals. There are as many good Breeders as there are Puppy Mills out there. My two daughters Abby and Brittany are breeding dogs at their houses, and all puppies are raised with the same excellent breeding practices. Our three sons also house dogs for us; all their dogs are listed on my website, so we can link our websites together. I love hearing from my puppy parents how easy going their puppy is and friendly with everyone. This is due to all the loving care givers our dogs and puppies are with every single day. I have my three Granddaughters ages help with puppy Early Stimulation training and play, so puppies meet a wide variety of people and children in a comfortable trusting setting. When a puppy has been trained by only one person, say a lady; then the puppy may be fearful of a man or a child. Thus, we create confident, brave well-adjusted puppies. Luckily, I have the sweetest husband that cannot sit still and is always looking for something to do or something to clean up. Feel free to contact us via email preferred at hilltoppups yahoo. We will make every effort to answer your questions promptly and truthfully! During busy times, such as when there are several litters of puppies to care for or a mom in Labor, email is much easier for us and we can put in writing complex questions, so you have time to digest and study the information. Our FAQ page is an excellent place to start if you are not familiar with Goldendoodles, as I have collected 20 years of most often asked questions. Email is more efficient; when you call, I may be bathing or grooming a dog or puppy and I cannot leave them unsupervised. Emailing gives me time to answer questions thoroughly, attach reading material, pictures of puppies or Goldendoodles for example. For those people that cannot visit in person, we provide a lot of pictures and video to assist with the selection process. On our website you can search pages by size category, so you have less to look through. On the Sire and Dam pages all our dogs are listed and their health tests. Click on any document to view it. If you do not adopt a puppy from me request proof of health documents and pedigrees before submitting that non-refundable deposit. If a Breeder does not present documents up front, some never will. Some of the dogs listed on my website live with my two daughters and three sons. My two daughters work with me, live close by, and will someday take over my business. It all started here with a dog loving family with 5 children. With my background of Human Resource Management, I know how to research and apply my knowledge in respect to Breeding Laws, better breeding practices, and making my business the best it can be from the treatment of my dogs to my customer service. Some Breeders pick your puppy for you. At Hilltop Pups you get to choose your puppy with our expert advice. We post pictures of puppies every 7 to 10 days with videos, so you get to watch them grow. We schedule visits one hour apart at the top of each hour, once the schedule is full, we schedule on the half hour as well. After each visitor we disinfect everything that has been touched. I am aware some of you are coming a great distance. Go to your car in advance and GPS our address, make sure your GPS is set for highways "not scenic route" as we live on the edge of a town and the GPS will take you through winding country roads. Then give yourself an extra half hour, as I prefer you be early than late running into the next appointment. If you are not able to visit, I take many videos of the puppies and if you have narrowed down your selection to two puppies; we can make you videos of just those two puppies. Rarely in the last 18 years has someone changed their mind when they arrived here and picked a different puppy than the puppy they first fell in love with via our website. You are welcome to fly here to get your puppy. Currently American Airlines has resumed puppy shipping, but temperatures at any point in the flight including departure and layover, must be below 85 degrees and above 32 degrees. Which is a challenge here during the Summer and Winter months, plus any stop over destination and arrival destination temperatures. You are welcome to fly here; Louisville Kentucky airport is the closest at only 80 miles away. Many people are choosing Delivery to your door via vehicle delivery service. Here are reputable delivery companies I have been using for years; you contact the companies directly, arrange shipments with them, and pay them their shipping fee when they deliver the puppy to you. Flight Nanny Service contact Mary Venneketter for cost .Early Stimulation Training program is our highest priority which we start at 3 days old and once puppies are walking around, we still hold them every day on their backs, talk to them to create eye contact, rub all over them to make grooming easier in the future. We teach our puppies not to jump on people and to sit at your feet for attention. Puppies are paper trained to go on shredded paper which feels just like grass, so house training is a breeze, or if you need to train on potty pads that is easy as well. See what your puppy learns before you get the puppy home. The first step in your puppy's future. The next step in your puppy's future is your training from the very first day your puppy enters your home. Want to train your puppy from the convenience of your home as early as the day the puppy arrives home? No waiting until your puppy is fully vaccinated to start training. I suggest you start the training program before your puppy arrives; so you will be off to a great start. After completing this course your puppy should qualify. They are very friendly, helpful, easy to understand, and encouraging, which motivates you to continue in your training adventure. They offer video lessons, plus one on one training question and answer sessions via video chat. This is a Lifetime Program with Members Only Access to training methods, materials, and other resources needed for Pet Parenting and beyond. To continue training where we left off, I highly suggest you have the first unit completed before you get your puppy home. We create the best puppy for you, and you create the best Dog Ever! We are proud of our establishment and have a Visitation Room which includes windows for you to view where our Adult Dogs are Housed. We bring the puppies and adults to you to visit with them. For the safety of our dogs and puppies we do not allow you to walk through the facility, because we would need to disinfect everywhere you walked. We have had this practice in place since the beginning of our breeding program and have never contacted any health concerns by doing so, beware of Breeders that do not allow you to visit hiding behind false statements. Breeders walk everywhere in the world, shopping centers, gas station, Veterinarian Offices and then come home and walk around their kennels, just like anyone else. So why shouldn't people visit? I prefer puppies to get all the interactions they can with different people; you are providing valuable puppy training as well. Evansville is a one-hour drive. This is our house, not a public shopping center. We require appointments to visit as you do want to make sure we are home and able to focus our attention on you and have adequate time for you to interact with the puppies. This is not a large place; the visitation area can get crowded quickly if more than one family is visiting at a time. Our visitation Room does have windows on two sides, so you can see where and how all our adult dogs are housed. It is very important to stay as close to your scheduled arrival time as possible, give yourself that extra half hour for traffic concerns. We are at Eastern Time. Jasper is an aesthetically pleasing clean town of 15, and always rated at the top of the best places to live listings. How amazing it would be for AKC to do this; it is up to Breeders to commit to keeping their breed healthy going forward by health testing the parent dogs. Which believe me very few Breeders invest their money back into their dogs; so always demand copies of health testing prior to even submitting a deposit. DO Not trust Breeders that say they will provide the documents when the puppy goes home, demand proof up front. It is a nightmare to try to get paperwork from a Breeder after you have the puppy, because they do not have it. The Breeder is pulling on your emotions knowing you are getting attached to the puppy and then you are stuck with no proof that you have a healthy puppy that will live a long healthy life. Breeders never to rarely give you the correct documents after you have the puppy, learn from heart breaking experiences of having to re-home dogs that couldn't pass health screening. My research, commitment, and due diligence has paid off. Here is the foundation for creating the perfect Teddy Bear Goldendoodle and how to build conformity into the Breed. At Hilltop Pups we DNA test the coat type of all our dogs so we can create the most non-shedding hypoallergenic coat as possible. I follow this DNA rule when breeding to make sure my dogs are non-shedding. No guess work involved here; You can brush them and not even get hair to pull out. Next, we only breed with English Retrievers which produce a softer less shedding less matting coat than the coarser American Golden Retriever coats. The weight range of English Golden Retrievers that I have owned is for female and for males, although they look just and big and fluffier than the American Golden Retrievers. Next, we consider the color genetics behind the poodle: Reds-, browns-, and cream-colored poodles produce soft non-shedding coats. White, Gray, and Black poodles produce shredders even in the curly dogs; thus, they have been removed from Hilltop Pups breeding program. In we started breeding the Irish Goldendoodles. I am very pleased with what I have seen in the Irish Goldendoodles. Therefore, I only breed English Golden Retrievers as their life expectancy is years and very few ever have cancer. It takes a few generations to build the dark red poodle color back into the English Goldendoodles since the English Golden Retrievers are only white to cream. For the Irish we started with breeding a health tested American Golden Retriever to a health tested Irish Setter to get the hybrid vigor and dark red color; then bred that with a health tested male poodle and then back to another health tested poodle creating the F1b Irish Goldendoodles to ensure the hypo allergenic non-shed coats, plus get the dark red color and fabulous coats. Advantages of adopting an English Goldendoodle from Hilltop Pups Size range available 8 - 38 pounds Predictable size ranges for F2b and multi-Generations Hypoallergenic if past the F1 First generation, because we can DNA test the coat types for breeding. Fully Vaccinated for their age Trained with Early Neurological Stimulation Trained not to jump on people, but sit at your feet for attention Paper potty trained Pre-spoiled, loved, and well socialized Puppies go home with: A 2-year health guarantee; 4 years if you provide NuVet Vitamin Supplements Microchipped with pre-paid membership enrollment form CKC Registration Papers.

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. The Golden is slow to mature and retains the silly, playful personality of a puppy until three to four years of age, which can be both delightful and annoying. Many keep their puppyish traits into old age. Originally bred for the physically demanding job of retrieving ducks and other fowl for hunters, the Golden needs daily exercise : a walk or jog, free time in the yard, a run at the beach or lake Goldens love water , or a game of fetch. And like other intelligent breeds who were bred to work, they need to have a job to do, such as retrieving the paper, waking up family members, or competing in dog sports. A tired Golden is a well-behaved Golden. As well as giving your Golden Retriever physical and mental exercise , you should also be prepared to include him in your family activities. Golden Retriever Highlights Golden Retrievers shed a lot, especially during spring and fall. Brushing their coat daily helps remove loose hair, preventing it from spreading on your clothes and around your home. Living with a Golden means embracing their shedding. Golden Retrievers are active and require minutes of vigorous exercise every day. They enjoy obedience training, agility classes, and other dog activities that provide both physical and mental stimulation. While they are gentle and reliable around children, Golden Retrievers are large and exuberant, which might accidentally knock over small kids. Goldens have hearty appetites and can become overweight if overfed. Manage treats, measure their daily food portions, and feed them regular meals instead of leaving food out all day. Due to their popularity, some breeders prioritize profit over the well-being of the dogs. To ensure a healthy pup, avoid irresponsible breeders, puppy mills, or pet stores. Look for reputable breeders who test their breeding dogs for genetic diseases and focus on good temperaments. Golden Retriever History For many years, there was a legend that Golden Retrievers were descended from Russian sheepdogs bought from a circus. In fact, the breed was developed in Scotland, at the highland estate of Sir Dudley Majoribanks, later known as Lord Tweedmouth. Tweedmouth, like many gentry of his day, bred animals of all kinds, trying to perfect different breeds. He also wanted the dog to be loyal and even-tempered in the home. Tweedmouth kept mostly the yellow puppies to continue his breeding program, and gave others away to friends and relatives. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in .Today, the Golden Retriever is the second most popular breed in the U. Golden Retriever Size Males are 23 to 24 inches tall and weigh 65 to 75 pounds. Females are generally .Golden Retrievers usually reach their full height by one year of age, and their mature weight by two. Golden Retriever Personality A sweet, calm nature is the hallmark of the breed. The Golden was bred to work with people, and is eager to please his owner. Though hard-wired with a good disposition, like all dogs the Golden must be well-raised and well-trained to make the most of his heritage. Socialization helps ensure that your Golden puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Elbow Dysplasia: This is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem or medication to control the pain. Cataracts: As in humans, canine cataracts are characterized by cloudy spots on the eye lens that can grow over time. Cataracts can usually be surgically removed with good results. Early in the disease, dogs become night-blind. As the disease progresses, they lose their daytime vision as well. Many dogs adapt to limited or complete vision loss very well, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis: This heart problem is caused by a narrow connection between the left ventricle out-flow and the aorta. It can cause fainting and even sudden death. Your vet can detect it and prescribe the proper treatment. Osteochondrosis Dissecans OCD : This orthopedic condition, caused by improper growth of cartilage in the joints, usually occurs in the elbows, but it has been seen in the shoulders as well. It causes a painful stiffening of the joint, to the point that the dog is unable to bend his elbow. It can be detected in dogs as early as four to nine months of age. Allergies: Golden Retrievers can be allergic to a variety of substances, ranging from food to pollen. If your Golden is licking his paws or rubbing his face a great deal, have him checked by your vet. The main symptom is excessive bleeding after an injury or surgery. Other symptoms include nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or bleeding in the stomach or intestines. There is no cure, and a blood transfusion from the blood of normal dogs is currently the only treatment. Research is underway for new treatments, including medication. A vet can test your dog for the condition. Dogs with this condition should not be bred. Bloat occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid himself of the excess air in his stomach, and blood flow to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure drops and the dog goes into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die. Suspect bloat if your dog has a distended abdomen, is drooling excessively, and retching without throwing up. He also may be restless, depressed, lethargic, and weak with a rapid heart rate. If you notice these symptoms, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Epilepsy : Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes periodic seizures and convulsions. Your vet will need to know how severe the seizures are and how often they occur to determine what medication to prescribe, if any. Hemangiosarcoma : This is a very dangerous form of cancer that originates in the lining of blood vessels and spleen. It most commonly occurs in middle-age and elderly dogs. Golden Retriever Care Golden Retrievers are built for action and love outdoor romps. If you like to hike or jog, your Golden will be happy to join you. Slacking on the activity, however, could lead to behavior problems. These dogs grow very rapidly between the age of four and seven months, making them susceptible to bone disorders. Normal play on grass is fine, and so are puppy agility classes. Golden Retriever Feeding Recommended daily amount: 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Golden in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. They do well on a high-quality, low-calorie diet that keeps them from growing too fast. For more on feeding your Golden, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Some coats are wavy, some are straight. The fur feathers on the back of the front legs and underbody, with heavier feathering on the chest, back of the thighs, and tail. Golden Retrievers come in all shades of gold, from light to dark gold. Golden Retrievers shed moderately in the winter and summer, and heavily in the spring and fall. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangling, and once a week is the bare minimum. Your Golden will also need a bath at least once a month, often more frequently, to keep him looking and smelling clean. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Short, neatly trimmed nails keep the feet in good condition. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding — and your dog may not cooperate the next time he sees the nail clippers come out. Fold-over ears create a warm, dark environment for bacteria or fungus to grow in, and breeds that have them — such as the Golden — are prone to ear infections. His ears should be checked weekly for redness or a bad odor, which can indicate an infection. Check them every time he gets wet, too. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. He enjoys the companionship of other dogs , and with proper introductions and training, can be trusted with cats, rabbits, and other animals. Golden Retriever Rescue Groups Goldens are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Goldens in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. Golden Retriever Club of America, Inc. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. They are simultaneously wonderful family pets—thanks to their friendly, tolerant attitude—and capable, intelligent working dogs. These sturdy, medium-sized dogs grow to about 55—75 pounds and typically live to be about 10—12 years old. Outgoing, trustworthy, eager-to-please, and easy-to-train, they are especially popular with families with young children. Goldens often maintain their fun-loving puppy attitudes and signature smile into adulthood. Part of the sporting dog group, golden retrievers are active dogs that require at least an hour of daily exercise. They live up to their name; they love retrieving just about anything thrown for them. This makes them excellent hunting companions and skilled service dogs. They love to eat, run, spend time with their owners, and even participate in obedience and agility events. Their coloring ranges from light golden to cream, and dark golden to golden, and their physique can vary from broad and dense to leaner and more sporty. According to AKC standards,goldens move with a smooth, powerful gait, and the feathery tail is carried, as breed fanciers say, with a "merry action. Thanks to their breeding as hunting and waterfowl-retrieving dogs in the Scottish Highlands,their outer coat is dense and repels water. They also have a thick undercoat. Their coats can vary in texture from wavy to straight. Heavy feathering appears on their chest, the backs of their legs, and tail. Temperament In general, golden retrievers are outgoing, playful, and gentle. They are also friendly, intelligent, and devoted. As they get older, most golden retrievers become docile and calm. Bred to be working retrievers, goldens have a lot of energy and require a lot of activity. They are best suited for owners with an active lifestyle and they thrive in a home where someone is around during the day to spend time with them. They don't do well when left at home on their own; they love their humans too much. Their happy demeanor often draws attention from other people when you are out and about—goldens get along well with strangers and other dogs. While they are not considered good guard dogs—they'd be more likely to show an intruder where the treats are than send the intruder running—golden retrievers are excellent service dogs thanks to their loyalty, intelligence, and stable temperament. They see themselves as part of the family and need to be treated as such. Luckily, goldens are not bothered by noise, commotion, and activity, making them very tolerant of children. Golden retrievers also take a "the more the merrier" approach to having other pets in the home. With proper introductions and training, goldens can be trusted with other dogs, cats, rabbits, and other animals. A golden retriever would do well reigning over a large fenced-in yard , so if you don't have a lot of outdoor space or you live in an apartment, make sure you get your golden outside regularly. A lot," Steen says. Owners should get used to having a fair amount of dog hair on clothing and furniture around the home. They have a thick, water-repellant double coat that sheds moderately in the winter and summer, and heavily in the spring and fall. However, if you brush your golden daily, you can prevent tangling and remove some dead hair before it covers everything in sight. Baths can also help and are recommended about once a month, but make sure the golden is fully dry before brushing begins. Golden retrievers will also need their nails trimmed about once or twice a month. A good indicator of when they need to be trimmed is when you can hear them clicking on the floor. Teeth should also be brushed at least two or three times a week. Ear checks are important as well; goldens have fold-over ears, which create an environment that encourages bacteria and fungus to grow. Look for redness or a bad odor and simply wipe out the outer ear with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to help prevent infections. Exercise is an essential part of a golden retriever's day. At least one hour a day of rigorous activity is necessary, even if that happens over several different outings or play times throughout the day. Goldens can be taken on long runs , bike rides, hikes, and swims. They also enjoy hunting trips, field trials, and other canine sports like agility, obedience, and tracking. A golden that doesn't get enough exercise is likely to exhibit undesirable behaviors like digging and chewing. Mental challenges, such as learning tricks and playing with puzzle toys, are also appealing to goldens, but should never replace physical activity. Take it easy with exercise in a golden retriever's first two years of life, as their growth plates are still forming. Don't go for long, strenuous runs or hikes until the dog is fully grown, and always opt for grass over concrete. Early socialization and puppy training classes are important with golden retrievers. Puppies should be exposed to a wide variety of people, places, and situations to help them become well-adjusted in their young life. When it comes to feeding time , owners need to help golden retrievers manage their intake; they have a tendency to become overweight. Food should be measured out and given twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. Dog treats should be given in moderation. If you're unsure whether your golden retriever is overweight, give him the eye test and the hands-on test. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. If you can't, he likely needs less food and more exercise. Chat with your vet about the best course of action. According to Steen, they are a generally healthy breed, but goldens are at a slightly increased risk of hip dysplasia and cancer when compared to other dogs. Other health conditions, although not particularly common, include elbow dysplasia, cataracts , progressive retinal atrophy —or gradual deterioration of the retina—hypothyroidism, gastric dilatation-volvulus otherwise known as bloat , and allergies. Golden retrievers should also have their ears checked often and teeth brushed regularly for optimum health. History Dudley Marjoribanks, the first Lord of Tweedmouth, developed golden retrievers in the mid-to-late s. Although at one time a rumor indicated that golden retrievers descended from Russian sheep dogs, they were, in fact, bred in the Scottish Highlands. Marjoribanks bred the dogs for more than 50 years to create an ideal gundog—he was an avid hunter of waterfowl. Tweedmouth wanted a dog suited to the rainy climate and rugged terrain of the area, so he crossed his "yellow retriever" with a breed that is now extinct, the Tweed water spaniel. He also wanted the dog to be even-tempered in the home. A golden retriever was first shown at the British dog show in .The Kennel Club in England officially recognized the golden retriever as a distinct breed in .At that time, they were classified as "retriever — yellow or golden. Fun Facts Considered one of the most beloved dog breeds, golden retrievers gained popularity with American families in the s when President Gerald Ford had a golden named Liberty. Tucker Budzyn is currently the most recognized golden retriever on the Internet, with more than 3 million followers across YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook. Golden retrievers are regulars on big and little screens. Golden retrievers love tennis balls. Just ask this 6-year-old golden named Finley , who is the Guinness World Record holder for carrying the most tennis balls in his mouth at a time. He can hold six! Was this page helpful? Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Retriever has been an AKC-recognized breed since and was commonly used as a gun dog and for retrieving small game such as waterfowl, and for companionship. The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish Highlands. The first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Majoribanks, is credited with developing the breed and keeping detailed records to create the ideal gun dog for the terrain. Great discipline and a gentle spirit make the Golden Retriever a perfect retrieval breed since the goal of this task is to bring the trophy back as undamaged as possible. Golden Retrievers first appeared in dog shows in at a British dog show. They also started appearing in the United States around the same time as they were brought across the Canadian border. They gained popularity with sport hunters and in general. Their popularity really took off in the s and they are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds. If you are not the sporting type, bringing a Golden Retriever into your family as a pet is just as rewarding because they are one of the most loyal and jovial breeds out there. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are the epitome of friendly and make fantastic family dogs. Golden Retrievers are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. They tend to be good with kids, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Goldens love attention and they bond closely with their families. They are affectionate with them, and also just about everyone else. Although they do tend to get along with everyone, they love being around their favorite humans the most. They will bark to alert you and can end up barking a lot if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. They can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. These dogs do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they are not at all happy about being left alone for long periods of time. Although super-friendly and attention-loving, Goldens can also be sensitive to their surroundings; make sure they feel included, but have a quiet place to go if things get too noisy or overwhelming. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Golden Retriever include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, elbow dysplasia , and hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Goldens are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are highly trainable dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. These traits make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. It also helps them excel at obedience competitions. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered the command, move on to something more advanced or another activity. You can also enroll in puppy training classes for some variety in training and also some socialization. Golden Retrievers have a long double coat that will shed a little year-round and will be heavier twice a year as the seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding along with a bath as needed is usually enough for at-home care. You will want to go to the dog groomer for a professional trim a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. Golden Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. But, they are high-energy dogs that will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Much like the Labrador , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They tend to start winding down a little around the age of 3 and settle into your lifestyle, but they will still be high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity. Goldens are known for being versatile and athletic dogs. They tend to love swimming. Once they are done growing and the vet clears them for higher-impact activities, you can try other things too. They are one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. You can also teach them how to play frisbee or play fetch. Training for dog sports is another good option. In addition to obedience, Golden Retrievers are well suited for agility, dock diving , rally, flyball, tracking, and more. Fully-grown Golden Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Golden Retrievers generally live for years on average. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and gentle disposition, Golden Retrievers are versatile working dogs. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Goldens can be found working as emotional support dogs, certified therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, military dogs, police dogs, animal actors, and more. Featured Golden Retriever Article.

Imagine you could come home to a lovable, dedicated, companion for life! If you knew what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy, you could find your next best friend. Before you buy your new best friend, read this information so you know what to look for in buying a healthy, quality German Shepherd puppy. I group them into major categories. Will you show him in conformation? Do you want to work with him in Schutzhund or herding? Or do you want a confident and alert companion? Know exactly what you want from your puppy. These dogs are the least costly since they have a trait that prevents them from winning in conformation competitions. These flaws rarely matter to most pet owners. And many minor faults like flat withers or slightly smaller offset ears will probably go unnoticed by most owners. The vast majority of GSDs are family pets. These dogs make great pets as long as they have sound temperaments! They breed some dogs for certain traits that are highly desirable but considered a fault. For example, long-coat or plush-coat GSDs. Show-quality dogs have good temperament and health. You usually buy them for their breed standard qualities that make them able to compete in confirmation or show events. A show-quality dog may cost significantly more if they have the traits desirable to win at a show. This group comes from Championship show lines with a long history of winning. If you plan on showing your Shepherd this is the quality you want. Beware of any breeder who claims they only raise competition-quality dogs. Even the best breeders produce many pet-quality dogs and if a breeder says they only breed perfect dogs, this is a red flag to not buy from them. The GSD is a herding breed, and the working-quality dogs excel at working trials such as scent competitions and Schutzhund. Other work includes climbing and jumping competitions or searching and tracking. They need mental stimulation to keep them occupied and take a lot of time to handle properly. These dogs are better with experienced handlers since you use them for high drive working and competition. They require hours and years of training and preparation for you to have total control during competition. We base this decision on preference. With the correct upbringing and training, both sexes are loyal companions and good with children. They may grow into more dominant dogs, so a confident handler is more desirable. Males may hike their back legs to mark their territory. This can occur on any object — chairs, walls, couches or even your leg. I suggest an extra bout of socialization during this stage, especially with other well-behaved dogs. So they may be better for the first-time owner. Unspayed females come into season every 6 months, so they must receive monitoring and watch to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Their season time can vary from as little as every 4 months to every 9 months. They can attract males to your property and on walks that will harass them if not spayed. Certain breeders and organizations will deal only in a certain coat length and color. The standard coat length is a short coat with double layers. Guard hairs on the top cover a softer underlayer of hair that provides warmth and protection. But there are many coat lengths available depending on your liking. Look online at the different GSD coat lengths to get an idea of what type of fur you want your dog to have. The longer the fur the more grooming involved. The color you choose is a matter of individual taste. Keep in mind the color of many Shepherds alters from their puppyhood to around 2 years of age. Your dog may become lighter or darker. Perhaps they will lose some of their markings as the color fades into the adult pattern. The best way to know what color and patterns your dog grows into is to see the parents of the litter. If the father is unavailable, then ask for photos. Why should you care where your dog comes from if you only want him as a pet companion? You want to get a dog that will live a long and healthy life from a source that has quality puppies. These tips will help you make the best decision on what type of pup fits in your life. Newspaper and Internet Classified Ads Newspaper and internet ads are in abundance. Many backyard breeders hide behind ads online or in local papers. But some breeders who use newspapers and classified ads are reputable and knowledgeable. The problem is you need to visit them to find out, and this can take time to sift through them all. Try the following more reputable suggestions to save yourself time. Dog Care Professionals Ask dog professionals for recommendations. Check with your local veterinarian, groomer, and boarding kennel personnel if they know reputable breeders in town. These professionals are good sources of quality leads. Use the same caution that you will for a classified ad. Verify their suggestions. Many of these organizations regularly receive puppies they need to re-home. While you might not know the full pedigree of the dog, purebred GSDs find themselves in shelters and rescues from no fault of their own. These organizations are a good resource for your first pup. Before adopting, find out as much information as you can. Was the puppy exposed to children? Did he live with other dogs or cats? A well-organized shelter or rescue helps you choose a German Shepherd match for your lifestyle. Start with looking online for GSD rescues and local shelters. Dog Clubs Dog clubs are local and national. These groups put you into contact with registered breeders through their own programs. They can give you the name of the GSD club contact closest to you for breed contacts. Dog clubs also have dog shows open to the public. This is a good time to watch the breed in action and to ask around for quality breeders. While using a dog club to connect you with a reputable breeder is not the only choice, it is one of the more reliable. If you are using a breeder to choose your German Shepherd puppy, this section will help you know the good from the bad. Use these tips to stay safe. Are selling overpriced or under-priced dogs. Lie to you and say you can make money off your new puppy by breeding them, despite them having flaws. Tells you that the GSD is a dog for everyone, with no disadvantages. Breeds multiple types of dogs and claims to be an expert on them all. If a breeder lets their mothers get pregnant more than once a year, this affects the quality of the puppies, so ask how many litters the mother has. These breeders selling unhealthy puppies also will refuse to take bag their dogs if you need to return them for any reason and have no contracts. They have healthy puppies and will answer your questions and have you make multiple visits. Openly show you where the mother and pups spend their time, including their garden or yard. Tells you the up and downs of owning the breed. Have all pedigree and vet paperwork on hand for your review. Specializes in breeding only GSDs source. They openly share this information with you. They have screened their dogs for health issues and can confirm this with documentation which they proudly give you a copy. Healthy mothers are given rest from breeding, and a reputable breeder gives their mothers time off from reproduction. Ask if your breeder if they are willing to take back their dogs if you cannot keep them, as this is standard for a quality breeder with a good reputation. Make sure your breeder has a written contract with detailed information and health guarantees. These are expected for safe breeding practices. How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy Following this guide gives you the best chance of buying a German Shepherd puppy that suits your lifestyle. Know what you want from your GSD and where to find quality dogs. Learn what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy to stay safe from a sick pup and a bad breeder. German Shepherds have their own unique set of challenges. They are a large, active, and intelligent breed that requires an understanding owner who is willing to train their GSD using positive techniques. Devote yourself to their overall health to see the best results and help give you and your dog a lifetime of happiness. Remember, your pup will need mental stimulation to keep their brain active , a gentle exercise program , and need daily love and affection. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a choice for your whole life that will bring you many years of joy and excitement! Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Check with local veterinarians' offices, animal shelters, pet supply stores, and other area pet business for referrals to dog rescue organizations in your area. Contact one local dog rescue group for referral to other area groups. Some dog rescue groups work with all dogs, while others are breed-specific. Most rescues groups have established networks with other area rescues. The organization's website also provides links to rescue organizations. Although the majority of dogs looking for new homes through rescue groups are adults, sometimes rescue groups have puppies to place. Most German Shepherds looking for homes through rescue groups do not have papers. If registering your puppy is important, or if you intend to enter it into competitions, you will need its title papers and health records, so a rescued dog may not be right for you. Many dog rescues will require a thorough application process in order to assure that you will be a good fit for the dog. Be prepared to disclose your address and whether you own your home, as well as your employment status and your philosophy when it comes to raising a dog. You will want to make sure that the dog's temperament works well with you and your family. Ask whether you can get the dog checked out by your veterinarian. You will want your vet to check the dog's general health and for serious conditions, such as heart murmurs. Be sure to ask about the dog's health while the rescue has had it and if it is up to date on shots and healthcare. A good rescue should actually offer this information upfront. Get a history of the dog's healthcare up to that point. Has it had its first vaccination, had heart worm treatment, and parasite control? These should have all been done before the age when a puppy is adoptable. While many rescue organizations cannot tell you much about the dogs they place, because the dogs have been rescued off the street or they have been given up anonymously, sometimes they have a bit of information. Get all the information you can about the dog's past so that you can assess their general background and health. Dog rescue organizations are usually run on a shoe-string budget. While they depend mostly on volunteers, they do need funds to transport and care for dogs. Your adoption fee will most likely help to pay for the rescue of other dogs in the future. Do further research into these local German Shepherd breed clubs in your area. Whether you get information from their websites or contact them directly for help, local breed clubs are a great way to get the names of reputable breeders in your area. Veterinarians come into contact with a lot of different types of animal care-givers, from breeders to shelters to individual owners. Because they know so much about animal issues in the community, it's a good idea to talk to a few vets in your area for ethical breeder recommendations. Also consider speaking to other German Shepherd owners, dog groomers, or dog trainers. If you visit a breed show, talk to owners and trainers about who they've had good or bad experiences with. A good breeder won't have a variety of breeds available for adoption. Look for a breeder who specializes only in German Shepherds. Your best option is to find a breeder who has years of experience with the German Shepherd breed. They should be able to answer your questions about development, temperament, and training easily and without hesitation. A key marker of a good breeder is the amount of effort they put into early socialization. Puppies need to be taught from an early age to live harmoniously with humans. If a breeder keeps litters isolated away from the home, the puppies will not be used to the sights and sounds of a normal household, and won't be used to human interaction. This can become a problem by the time they are old enough to be adopted. Make sure the puppies spend at least some time in the breeders' home with them. The more time they spend with humans, the more you can trust the breeder. An ethical breeder will never try to breed a female who hasn't reached sexual maturity — about 2 years of age. Mothers should also be given enough time to recover from pregnancies and being separated from their litters as they get adopted. Females should be healthy and alert. Never adopt a puppy from a breeder who breeds a young or unhealthy female, or who doesn't give mothers time to recover before breeding them again. Puppies should never be sold or separated from their mothers before 8 weeks of age. The breeder should have begun the puppies' vaccination and deworming processes before adopting them out. Make sure that's happened, and ask about any health problems the vet may have reported in these early checkups. Ask if the breeders have their dogs tested for the Degenerative Myelopathy DM gene. This can determine whether a common inherited disease in German Shepherds is present in the litter's bloodline. Dogs with DM suffer from progressive paralysis, particularly in the hind legs. Note that being AKC-registered does not mean that you are getting a healthy animal. It means that the owner paid money to the AKC to register the dog. While experts recommend against breeding animals with known genetic problems, an OFA certification will give you proof. Be aware, though, that there's no guarantee of health in any animal. There's always a chance that two dogs free of known genetic diseases can still produce a puppy with genetic problems. The breeder should be evaluating you as a potential owner, just as you're evaluating him or her as a breeder. No good breeder will just hand over a puppy without being sure that the new owners will be able to provide it with a good, healthy life. Ask the breeder what they look for in a good owner, and whether they've ever turned potential owners away. The breeder should be able to answer these questions without even having to think about it. You might also ask the breeder for references so you can contact other families who have dogs from previous litters. A reputable breeder should ask questions about your dog background and experience, your lifestyle, and your family to guide you in making the best decision. As difficult as it may be, a good breeder will be willing to turn you away if they think you're a bad fit for their particular puppies. For example, if the litter has particularly inactive parents, the puppies may not be a good fit for your highly active lifestyle. If you get turned away, ask if the breeder can point you to other options and litters so you can expand your search. Also ask if they have any unborn litters coming up that may be a better fit for you. Be patient and don't get discouraged. With enough patience and legwork, you'll find the right puppy. Don't lie to a breeder just to get a puppy, though. Trust the breeder's decision-making process. You don't want to end up with a dog who doesn't fit your needs. Avoid any breeder who offers to cut you a "deal," who has unclean or smelly kennels, or who acts suspiciously in any way. Trust your instincts. A breeder who's in it just for the money has the wrong motivation, and likely isn't interested in the welfare of their dogs. Make sure the dogs are not crowded into cages. They should have plenty of room to stumble around and explore their surroundings. Part of the time, puppies should be kept in the home to expose them to household environments. There should be adequate food and water for all animals on the premises. Kennels should be cleaned daily. Although it may be that a dog had an accident just before you arrived, be suspicious of a kennel that looks like it hasn't been cleaned recently. If a breeder doesn't have a return policy, it suggests they don't really care what happens to their dogs once they leave their property. That's not a good sign! Also find out what kind of documentation you would get with your puppy. Would you get registration papers and pedigree papers? Negotiate for what you want if it's not included in the contract. Be very wary of a breeder who will not discuss the chance that a puppy may need to be returned. Does the contract require you to take the puppy for a vet visit within a set time? Does it cover hereditary issues for life? For only a certain period of time? What does the breeder agree to offer? Trade for another puppy when one is available? Are there restrictions on the activities you can do with your dog that will invalidate the contract or guarantee? Are you purchasing a show prospect puppy or a pet quality animal? Does the breeder have strong feelings or even bans about the vaccinations, foods or supplements for your puppy? Are these opinions based on solid science? Of course, you have already read a lot of books with advice on how to choose the right puppy of a German Shepherd, east European, as well as a Newfoundland, Rottweiler, Spaniel, or Spitz puppy. You understand what is the fundamental difference between these breeds and why a Retriever puppy will never become a VIP bodyguard, and a black terrier will hardly ever pass for a draft husky. Why Opting For a German Shepherd Puppy Is a Good Choice The German Shepherd is prone to learning from a very young to deep old age, while many other breeds cannot boast of this, even if their appearance is more perfect than that of a German Shepherd. The most well-known characteristics that a German Shepherd owns are: pronounced protective and guarding instinct; the ability to make independent decisions, and active actions, and at the same time be completely submissive to the owner; sociability, playfulness, and curiosity; lack of aggression signs towards others and deep affection for the owner; a willingness to happily take on tasks, learn, and remain completely fearless when faced with unfamiliar surroundings or unforeseen difficulties; In addition, the Shepherd dog is calmly confident and features strong nerves, combativeness, and assertiveness which are the main qualities of a good service dog. Perhaps, due to this set of breed characteristics, few larger and more ferocious breeds can compete with a GS, both for guarding the house and as a personal protector. It is not recommended to take puppies under 4 weeks old from their mother. This applies not only to GSs but other breeds. At the age of one month, the baby has already been given all the necessary vaccinations. However, only a person who can devote a lot of time to raising a puppy can afford to take a Shepherd at such a young age. In addition to 6 meals a day, and socialization, the new owner will need to complete 1, different tasks, which require, above all, a lot of time. If there is no time, it is worth finding a puppy aged 4 to 6 months. And it is advisable to take such a teenager from a nursery that focuses on breeding German Shepherds and not all the breeds at once. It happens that a puppy stays in the nursery because the money deposit was given for it but, for some reason, people could not pick up the reserved puppy. If the grown-up German Shepherd puppy constantly lived in an aviary and was deprived of close contact with people and the outside world, owners who have not previously dealt with this breed should not choose such a youngster. These young dogs are for experienced cinologysts. Lack of socialization can be corrected but it cannot be fully eliminated. Testing for the Puppy and Its Future Owner You may already know how to choose a purebred German Shepherd by external signs under the age of 3 months. Simple tests will help you choose a puppy with the desired character. Visit the breeder at a predetermined time when the puppies do not sleep or, conversely, are not hungry. You are taking a future friend for life, and enthusiastic emotions with such a choice are inappropriate. When buying a new friend, inspect the litter meticulously. Pay attention to the following: eyes do not water; traces of diarrhea under the tails are not observed; wet noses are without purulent crusts; legs are straight and strong; fur is clean, reminding of the plush; on the skin under the coat, there are no signs of peeling and scabs; all puppies are active and well-fed; the body is elastic and strong to the touch; the puppy has a pleasant dog smell; the mother is not exhausted; bowls and bedding are clean; there is enough heat and light. Of course, the owner of the dog mother has already taken her to the next room. Those who paid attention to the unusual sound are yours. Throw carefully, of course a tennis ball at the puppies. Those who were not afraid and did not try to escape are yours. Those who, having scouted the situation, did not begin to whine , pressing themselves onto the floor, but hurried towards the bedding are yours. Pay attention to those who have shown interest in a new object. The best are those who took and dragged it. Keys and money are the dirtiest household items. This testing method was used 20 years ago. Today, it is dangerous for the health of puppies! Invite those who dragged the rubber duck to pull a piece of fabric. If the baby dog willingly starts the fight, not letting the cloth go when you pull it towards you, they are good boys or girls. Turn the puppy you like on its back and hold it with an open palm for a few seconds. A clear alpha leader is easy to identify by its non-calming behavior for seconds, and even trying to bite you in this position. It may not be your choice! You will get too many problems associated with the puppy, or it will never be possible to completely subdue it. The puppy that squealed, pulled back its paw, and did not lose its interest in you is yours. The one who barks trying to drive brothers and sisters away from the bowl is not for you. The one who gives up its place at the feeder is also not yours. Yours is the one who, regardless of the obstacles, has taken its place and calmly devours food, without moving from its point, snapping, and running around the bowl. Now, you have at best 2 or 3 puppies left in front of you. You need to select the fat-footed one who will try to get out through the opening without panic and squealing. The tests are simple, but they will allow you to select a good puppy and raise a real working German Shepherd from it without unnecessary costs and nerves. Talk to the breeder. Such puppies are sold at a more reasonable price, but the puppy card for them is mandatory to be filled out as well. If you are given puppies for free, in the absence of their mother, there is a reason to seriously consider whether it is a Shepherd dog at all, even if their mother has pedigree documents. This is not a dog of one owner! The versatility and flexibility of this breed are proven by the fact that GSs accept a new family and a new environment without any problems. The main thing for it is to have its own business — to serve a human! Of course, parting with the former owner seriously affects the condition of the dog, but it will not have a destructive effect on its psyche. And the sooner you engage the German Shepherd in work, the more chances you will have to become a new God for it. If the German Shepherd was properly brought up and grew up surrounded by people, it has working characteristics in good conditions, and the reputation of its previous owner is beyond all questions, such a dog will be quite useful to your family. Finding out the previous story and background of an adult GS why it is refused, what the complaints about its behavior are, and other prompting questions is a must! The reason may be the saddest and most trivial — the previous owner died, and relatives are not able to either support or care for the dog. 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. This guide will help you learn how to select the best German Shepherd puppy to add to your family. Is a German Shepherd right for me? This is the first question you should ask yourself before you even consider bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy. You need to evaluate your personal and family lifestyle by asking yourself the following questions: Where do you live? German Shepherds are often on the restricted breed list for apartments. Do you spend much of your time at home, or do you have an active work and social life? Are you willing to spend more time at home on the weekends and evenings during puppyhood, even if it means missing social events? Do you love traveling a lot? If so, will you take your puppy with you? If not, do you have someone or someplace you trust to watch your dog when you travel? Is your whole family excited about the idea of a new German Shepherd puppy? Are you already active or willing to become more active? Do you have time in your schedule to devote to training? Knowing the answers to those questions will help get you a couple of steps closer to deciding whether or not a German Shepherd is the right choice for you. Important things to know about German Shepherds: German Shepherd dogs are sometimes affectionately known as German shedders. German Shepherds shed all year long , however, they blow their coats twice a year during which time they will shed exponentially more. When considering getting this breed, you should be comfortable having a dog that sheds. Trimming their nails , cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and brushing their coat regularly is sufficient. Of course, during the shedding seasons more frequent brushing will be needed. German Shepherds were originally developed for herding sheep. Accordingly, they have the desire to work and respond best to proper training from a young age, and an active lifestyle. German Shepherds are known to be clingy, so be prepared to have a shadow following you around the house and maybe even in the restroom. German Shepherds are good with kids and are great family dogs. However, they need proper socialization and training at a young age so they can learn how to behave around both kids and adults. German Shepherds require a lot of mental stimulation and have high energy levels, especially as a puppy. As much as I love Allie, she was more than a handful as a puppy. I have seen instances where people underestimate the time, energy, and training a German Shepherd puppy requires and get overwhelmed after bringing their puppy home. These people end up giving up their puppies. It breaks my heart to know these awesome dogs are given up because of a lack of knowledge when selecting a breed of dog. Although they are a handful if you are willing to put in the effort they are in my opinion one of the best breeds of dog to own. German Shepherds are too smart for their own good. They learn things scary fast and sometimes get themselves into trouble because of how smart they are. They learn your routine and habits, and they also learn when and how they can get away with mischief. German Shepherds are incredibly loyal and become very connected to their owners and family. German Shepherds are typically loving and affectionate. From the second I met Allie she greeted me with a wet tongue to the face. That is still her favorite greeting she will kiss anyone that will allow her to get close enough. German Shepherds need training. They need to know that you are the leader and in charge. If not, they will quickly take over the role of being in charge and that is where problems arise. A bored, untrained, not active German Shepherd can become one of the stories you sometimes hear on the news about a GSD being aggressive. In most of those cases, the problem was with the owners and not the dog breed as a whole. Adoption or Breeder? First, you need to decide if you are going to adopt a German Shepherd puppy or buy one from a breeder. Here are some of the benefits of adopting: Rescue puppies are often already sociable, at least partially trained, and loving dogs. Therefore, you will save a lot of time on house training your new puppy. Older puppies or dogs are likely to be calmer than a younger puppy. You are saving the life of a dog that might not have otherwise found a home. The cost of adopting is typically much cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder. If you decide to get a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder, here are a few things that can help you identify a good, ethical German Shepherd breeder: Ethical breeders care about the health and wellbeing of the puppy and are not just in the business for money. Ethical breeders always make sure that only healthy dogs breed together and follow a strict breeding program where they ensure that breeding and puppy spaces are clean. They should also have papers showing the age of the parent and the family tree of the puppy. Ethical breeders will happily show you around their entire setup; they should have nothing to hide. Ethical breeders will happily answer as many questions as you have to ask. You want to select one that will be compatible with you and your family. Consider the following when picking a puppy from the litter: Choose a puppy that is sociable around you and other puppies. Pick a puppy that walks confidently with its head high and tail up and wagging. Choose a puppy that has clear eyes, ears , and teeth, walks evenly, and appears clean. Basically, choose a puppy that looks healthy. Look at the personalities of the puppies. Choose a welcoming puppy that wants to greet you as opposed to one that retreats or appears shy. Ask to interact with each puppy one by one after seeing them with their littermates. That way you can get a better sense of how the puppy responds to you without distractions. If possible, visit the litter at least three times before making a final decision, this will allow you to determine the personalities of each of those little fluff balls, and see which would best fit into your family. How old should a German Shepherd puppy be when you take it home? Any puppy should be at least 8 weeks old before being separated from their mother. By this timeline, their sensory organs will have also developed fully which will help you to spot any deformities or medical issues. Be wary of any breeder that will allow you to take your puppy home before 8 weeks old. How do you puppy proof for German Shepherds? German Shepherds are naturally active and tend to explore the world with their mouths, especially during their adolescent period. So, before you can bring your new puppy home, there are a few things you can do to puppy-proof your house: Get rid of any poisonous plants or put them out of reach of your new puppy. Cover electrical cords with cable wraps or PVC pipes. Buy a new laundry basket that has a lid, no holes, and is tall. Make sure both your kitchen and bathroom trash cans have lids. Your new puppy will dig around for anything to bite, like chicken bones, diapers, used hygienic products, or even a disposable razor. If possible, you should buy new trash cans that only open when a button is pressed. Store all the chemicals in secured cabinets or even better on high shelves. German Shepherd puppies have strong teeth and can open plastic containers by biting through even the toughest of plastic! Put away any small items or toys that are small enough for your puppy to swallow. Think of small kid toys like Legos or dollhouse furniture that could be dangerous for a curious puppy. Find a safe spot for your shoes. Whether in a closed closet or in the laundry room behind a closed door. I remember losing a pair of brand-new shoes because I forgot to put them away and Allie thought chewing them was a fun idea. Bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy The period of bringing a new German Shepherd puppy home and introducing them to your home and family takes time and above all, patience. If possible, plan to take off work for at least a few days after bringing your puppy home. I picked up Allie on a Saturday, and then took most of the following week off to spend time getting her adjusted to her new home. Remember, your new puppy has been taken from the only family it knew, and you are now their new family. That first week home was a good week of bonding with Allie. It helped her feel comfortable with her new life and allowed me to really get to know my new beautiful energy filled puppy. The best tip for a smooth transition when bringing your German Shepherd puppy home is to begin crate training and potty training as soon as possible. As a breed prone to separation anxiety , you want to give your GSD a zone to feel safe, comfortable, and content to be on their own. While the initial steps of crate training can be time-consuming, it can make the difference between a dog that is a joy to own, and one that can never be left on their own — so, be the dog parent your pooch deserves and put the time in! New German Shepherd puppy checklist and things to buy It is important that your new puppy feels welcomed into their new home. Some items are ok to be left with your puppy, and other items are more dangerous or will be destroyed. This checklist will help you to know what to buy when getting a puppy. New German Shepherd Puppy Checklist. Feeding and grooming 1. Traditional leather collars with an engraved tag are a popular choice. They can be personalised with up to 25 characters of information which will help someone return your pup to you. But here at Happy Puppy HQ, we love them! If your puppy reaches the end of their leash quite suddenly, a harness distributes the impact over a large area of predominantly muscle, rather than concentrating it on a small area of delicate throat tissues. And they make it easier to safely control your puppy during training. Travel Restraint Most people want to be able to travel with their dog. But there are some things to buy German Shepherd puppies that will make this easier. Puppies who travel unrestrained in vehicles can be somewhat mischievous however! It can be all too tempting to try and climb into your lap or your footwell, for a bit of attention. Furthermore, unrestrained dogs are more likely to sustain serious injuries in a collision. However, if your GSD puppy is a destructive chewer, this kind of crate might not last long. Another Alternative A great alternative is anchoring their harness securely to the seat belt plug. This will keep your puppy in place, and distribute the impact of a crash as safely as possibly over his body. So one of the things to buy a German Shepherd puppy is a leash. Young puppies are very receptive to new experiences, so teaching them to accept wearing a leash is easiest while they are still young. Most GSD puppy parents find that they need two types of leash. The Two Types First, a short lead for keeping their dog under close control near traffic and whilst walking on the sidewalk. Crate People tend to have mixed feelings about dog crates. But used responsibly, they have heaps of advantages. They can become a cosy den for your puppy, which he will learn to associate with being safe and relaxed in. They can make toilet training quicker and easier. And they prepare your dog for being unavoidable crating in the future, for example if they ever need to stay at the vet, or travel by air. Our crate training article is all about how to choose the best crate, and use it correctly. And this article is all about choosing the right size for a German Shepherd. So add some bedding to your list of things to buy a German Shepherd puppy! If you decide to move onto something more supportive as they grow up, our review of the best beds for German Shepherds will help you find the perfect next step. Many of them are available in standard crate sizes too — perfect for making the bottom of a crate as luxurious as can be! Puppies are curious, playful, and at times even total trouble-magnets! Creating a safe place in your home where you can leave them for a few moments to visit the bathroom or answer the door protects them from harm and gives you peace of mind. Your puppy zone should ideally have wipe clean floors in case of toilet accidents, and you should invest a little time teaching them to associate it with good things — by leaving treats in it for them to find, and returning their favorite toys there when they leave them lying around. Toys Like all puppies, German Shepherd pups have stacks of energy. So, toys should be a priority on your list of things to buy a German Shepherd puppy. They love to play, and playing plays a valuable role in developing their muscles, motor skills and coordination. In fact, GSDs have pretty tough teeth and jaws, even from a young age. So we recommend choosing toys designed with durability in mind. Food and Water Bowls All puppies need access to clean, fresh water. And whilst we recommend using most of their daily food allowance as rewards during training, you might also like to give them small meals in a bowl. In fact it is estimated that bloat causes the death of approximately 1 in 7 GSDs. Food Your puppy should come home with a modest supply of the food they were weaned onto by their breeder. This will minimize the possibility of them etting an upset tummy. Our article on the best diets for German Shepherd Dogs will give you some food for thought. Are they just the start of a slippery slope towards canine obesity? Well, we think treats have an important role to play in successful German Shepherd training! But the best way to capture a new behavior, or advance an established area of training to the next level, is by offering a high value food reward at first. Pieces of cooked chicken or small cubes of cheese are equally effective. Some we Like You may need to experiment with a few brands to find out which your GSD will work the hardest for. These basics belong in every dog owners kit: A brush, for removing loose hair, debris, matts and tangles — German Shepherds need their coats brushing at least two or three times a week. Shampoo, for when they roll in in something stinky. Toothbrush and Toothpaste These could be considered part of general grooming supplies. Medical procedures such as setting broken bones and corrective surgery for bloat cost several thousand dollars. Most insurance plans have the added bonus of including public liability cover. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Final thoughts Where do I start? The first thing that you have to do before you can pick out the best puppy, is to pick out the best breeder. This may come easily, as you may already have a breeder in mind that you trust and who has a good reputation. But chances are that you will have to do your research. And there is also a good chance that you may need to travel some distance to the right breeder. Even if the breeder is several states away, consider making the trip. Getting a new GSD puppy is a significant life commitment. The effort and time that you invest now in going about this properly will pay off for years to come. Here are some important things to look for in a breeder once you locate one that you are interested in pursuing. Call the breeder and have a conversation The first thing to do is call the breeder and have a conversation. A quality German Shepherd breeder will actually require this. They will not permit someone to just show up and purchase one of their dogs and take it home. They will ask you questions such as: Why do you want a GSD puppy? This will aid them in helping you choose. Where do you live, in an apartment or in a home? They will want to ensure that the puppy will not be in a cramped space. Do you have a yard, and is it fenced-in? They will want to make sure that the puppy will have adequate room to exercise as it grows. Do you have children in your home? They will want to make sure that you understand the importance of socialization and training to keep your family safe. Do you have other pets in your home? They will want to make sure that you know how to properly introduce the puppy to other animals, and whether any other pets you have may actually be a danger to the puppy. What type of work do you do, does it require you to be away from home for long periods of time? Because GSDs do not do well alone, they will want to make sure that you have adequate time to devote to your dog. Are you financially prepared to take on a GSD? While this may be a bit of a personal question, it is important to know that you are financially able to care for a GSD. They are expensive to care for, and it is fair for a breeder to ask this question. If a breeder does not ask you some form of these questions, then perhaps think twice. It may be an indication that they are more interested in profit than raising a quality puppy that they care will go to a quality home. Questions for you to ask the breeder: How many different types of dogs do you raise? Can you provide me with a pedigree of all of your puppies? A pedigree is essentially a family tree for your puppy. A good breeder should have a detailed pedigree for any dog they sell. Beware of any breeder that wants to charge for this or says that they will provide it at a later date. Do you have references? They should provide you with several without thinking twice. All reputable breeders will offer this guarantee in the form of a written contract. Do you breed your females more than once a year? Female GSDs should not be bred more than one time per year. This allows for adequate recovery time and maintains good health. Can you provide me with a detailed medical history for your puppies? Health screenings are essential for puppies, and a reputable breeder should be able to provide proof of these. Can you explain any potential health issues for GSD which may come up later in life? A knowledgable breeder should be able to clearly explain conditions like hip dysplasia and other health issues more common in GSDs than other dogs. If the answer to any of these questions comes up as unsatisfactory, move on. It is simply not worth the risk of pursuing the breeder any further. Unfortunately, there are far too many unethical breeders who take a lot of shortcuts which results in dogs prone to both health and behavioral issues. Why is this? You should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. More than half of the states in the U. And out of those states, only 3 permit a puppy to be offered for sale under the age of 8 weeks. The reason for these laws is primarily so that puppies are properly weaned from their mothers and able to eat on their own. In addition to weaning, puppies need to be initially socialized by their mothers as well as their siblings. So a puppy will be taught that these things are bad during these 8 weeks. If you remove a puppy from the litter too early, they may not learn these lessons and develop behavioral problems as they get older. Much like a spoiled child that never learns, often times the source of an ill-behaved puppy can be traced to a lack of discipline at a young age. So to ensure that you have a healthy puppy, that is also sold in accordance with state laws and regulations, understand that it must be 8 weeks old see link above for exceptions — regardless of state law exceptions, waiting 8 weeks is good practice. Decide whether you want to male or female You may have a personal preference for either a female or a male German Shepherd puppy. It is important however to not necessarily just go with your gut on this one. Take a moment and understand some general differences between the two genders. I will explore this issue more in-depth in another post, but here are some important general points to consider. Territorial: Males are naturally more territorial than females. This may give them more of a tendency to wander off in an effort to broaden their territory. Very possessive: Male GSDs are generally more possessive than females. They may be possessive over food and bones, toys, and you! Dominance: Male German Shepherds tend to be more dominant than females. This may result in more of a proclivity towards aggressive bullying behaviors to make sure that it is understood that they are the boss. Dominance requires training to keep it in check. Singular bonding: Male GSDs tend to bond more closely with one person rather than a group of people like a family. Territorial: Females are therefore more welcoming and less territorial than males. They are also less likely to wander off as they have no desire to expand their territory. Dominance: Females display less dominant behaviors than males. Non-singular bonding: Females are more likely to bond with a number of people in a family rather than an individual person. So, how do I choose between the two? This question comes down to the purpose for which you want a German Shepherd. If you are looking for a dog to have trained in protection and are looking primarily for a four-legged security system for your home, then a male is a good choice. However, if your primary interest is to just have a family pet that socializes well with others, then a female is probably right for you. Testing the puppy There is no better way to determine whether or not a specific puppy is the right one for you than to actually get hands-on and doing some investigating. However, even before you begin any interactions with a puppy, make sure that you are testing the correct one. Never try and force any interaction, begin with puppies that are naturally drawn to you. Just like with people, you cannot force a match and expect fruitful results. So be patient and make sure at very least that the puppy is not aversive toward you before you being. The tests: Clap your hands: Does it run away or does it come? A more timid dog may, however, be apprehensive to approach. Make eye contact: When the puppy is looked at, does it stare back at you? If the puppy looks directly at you, it is showing confidence. Vocally call the puppy over to you: Does it come to you right away? If it does how not, however, this could show a behavioral issue or hearing problem, or it could be an indication of another illness as well. Pet the puppy: How does it respond to your touch? However, if it meets your touches with biting or growling, then this is likely an indication of an uneven or bad temperament. It will not just grow out of this, it will have to be trained out of it. Bring a ball with you to test with the puppy: Roll the ball and see what the puppy does. Does it follow it and then bring it to you? Or does it take it away for itself. A more dominant puppy will just take the ball and keep it for itself, reluctant to give it back to you. On the other hand, a more independent puppy may show no interest at all. And one that is submissive may actually be frightened. If you are looking for a very sociable puppy, look for the one that brings the ball right back to you to play some more. The puppy that brings it right back is also an ideal candidate for training in retrieving and other exercises. An even-tempered puppy will show interest in and play with the toy, but it will also allow you to participate and take the toy back without showing you any aggression. Roll the puppy over: Once the puppy comes over to you, gently roll it onto its back and hold it in place. Do not be forceful but be firm. See how the puppy reacts. Is it resisting, or is it just relaxing? A puppy with a more dominant personality will take the path of most resistance, and it may growl or attempt to bite at you. And the even-tempered puppy is the one that may resist for a short time but then submit to what you are doing. Pick up the puppy: Physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it underneath its chest with an open hand. Lift it up high, even above the height of your head and hold it there. What does the puppy do? Does it struggle, or does it stay relaxed? A puppy that struggles may be fearful or dominant. On the other hand, a puppy that stays absolutely relaxed is displaying confidence in itself and trust in you. Hold on to a paw and press it gently: This is somewhat similar to holding it on its back. If there is a response to be had, it will happen immediately. Resistance or pulling the paw away may show dominance and temperament towards aggression. The even-tempered puppy will be you curious as to what you are doing. It may investigate a little and might even lick you. Make an unexpected noise: Whether it is banging a pot and pan together or just yelling, create an unexpected noise. See what the puppy does, does it show fear, interest, or aggression? A fearful puppy may run away or even whimper. While an aggressive-tempered puppy may actually growl and try to bite you. An even-tempered puppy will simply look surprised, and may even want to investigate a little bit further. Meet the parents A lot of breeders will have both the father sire and the mother bitch of the puppies on site. However, some of them will only have the mother because sometimes the father is on loan as a stud from a different breeder. But the mother for sure should be on site, and you should get an idea of what she is like. In the case of my last German Shepherd, I was able to meet both parents. His mother was very kind and sociable and eager to be petted. While on the other hand, his father was clearly dominant, and not a dog to be messed with. Because of my prior experience and knowledge, my GSD turned out exactly as I thought he would — fairly sociable yet wildly protective of me. This was all right because I knew what to expect and I was able to train my dog properly to take the edge off of some of his more dominance behaviors. However, my choice was an informed decision based on years of experience. If you are new to owning a German Shepherd, this may not be an ideal combination. I would recommend for a new German Shepherd owner to consider making sure that both parents are more docile, and possibly even lean towards acquiring a female for your first German Shepherd. Visit the puppy on more than one occasion Just like people, puppies have their on days and their off days. You will not be able to get a very accurate picture of how your puppy will be on one short visit. In fact, with my last dog, I visited him at least 4 times and stayed for at least 30 minutes with him each time prior to taking him home. A good breeder will have no issue with you doing this, and in fact, will prefer it. They want their dogs to be well-matched with their new owners, so this is common practice. The puppy should become accustomed to the people it will soon be spending its entire life with. So the more familiarity that you build now in this phase, the easier that puppy will transition to home life with you and your family. All of these steps are positive reinforcement for your new puppy and will build familiarity and a bond even before you arrive home. Also, bring a small blanket or clothing item and ask the breeder to leave it with the puppy. This will allow your puppy to become familiar with the scent of you and your home. Making for a better transition. So by default, this knowledge enables the breeder to be very good at placing the proper puppies with the proper personalities. Remember to stay focused and not lose sight of your primary objective, which is to select the right puppy for you and your family. If you take the time and care to do your research and ask the right questions, you will come together with the right puppy for you. But remember, this is just the beginning of a major life commitment. So take this step of choosing the right GSD puppy seriously, and you will have laid the foundation for a loving and rewarding relationship for years to come. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.

Dogs - Labrador Retriever This breed is thought to have originated in the geographical area called Labrador, the Newfoundland area on the east coast of Canada. Above: Labradors can be three colours: chocolate, yellow, or black. Red Fox is considered as a yellow. Excellent with kids and loyal family dog. They are active, intelligent and trainable. They have been vet checked, inoculated and dewormed; they will have a microchip implanted when collected. Breeding restrictions apply. Puppies can be transported to any major airport at buyer's expense. R each. More info on our Webpage: Vomvivando. Posted .Dewormed at 2 weeks, 4 and 6 weeks. Vaccinated at 6 weeks, microchipped and vet checked. Can be transported to any major airport at buyer's expense. Deposit must be paid to secure your booking. Puppy Agreement Contract to be signed on collection. Please call Denise Hopley or email alberden. Born 1st August. Stutterheim, Eastern Cape, South Africa. KUSA registered, inoculated 5 in 1, Microchip implanted, dewormed every 2 weeks, thoroughly checked by our vet, and handed over with up to date vaccination book. Price R.It is suggested the buyer have a full health check within 48 hrs of leaving our property, thereafter no latent defects will be humoured. Contact May Field, E-mail: maydfield gmail. Website: www. Webpage: Elioriaium Sherise Roux dt. Hannatjie, Yorma Puppies. Labrador puppy bred by M. Field About Labrador retrievers The dogs were used by fishermen to go into the water and pull the fishing nets to shore. Labradors love water, and care must be taken not to let a puppy go near a pool, or it will drown, as it does not know how to get out. The Labrador became popular in England as a gun dog and was used to retrieve game that the hunter had shot. Welcome to Mirain Labradors, South African owner of labradors and occasional breeder of labradors. Mirain Labradors carefully select and breed yellow, black and chocolate labrador puppies. Our History I was brought up with labradors, my folks bred labradors and I have personally been owned by a labrador for 3 decades. When my kids finished school I decided to show and breed this adorable breed and have made many friends along the way. Our Beliefs Our labradors are family pets and when we are home they spend their time inside with us and sleep in our bedrooms. The labrador puppies are whelped and brought up inside our home and are very well cared for by their mom and the rest of the family. We are a very small scale breeder and have only 1 litter a year from my labrador girls, currently this is 1 litter per year. A contract will be drawn up between the purchaser and seller to protect both parties and puppies. Make sure you read our section on how to select a healthy, happy labrador puppy and familiarize yourself with a labradors health as well. Our Labradors Diet Our dogs are fed on Hills Science Plan, which is what the puppies will be weaned on and a free Hills Puppy Pack is given to each new owner when they collect the puppy. We are a Labrador breeder in South Africa that selectively breeds Labradors for happy, healthy Labrador puppies. By breeding only from healthy, tested dogs and bitches with sound temperaments, we strive to make a positive contribution to the Labrador gene pool in our country as well as to provide families with wonderful Labradors as family pets and companions of outstanding quality. Please meet the Amadeuze Labrador team: Our breeding Labradors, studs and bitches, our Labradors on show team and also our Labrador family pets and companions. Labrador Retrievers are good companions to both men and women. Labradors are great house-dogs as Labradors are people orientated and guard their family. As a Retriever they are excellent shooting dogs, as this is the job for which they are bred, They are one of the most intelligent dog breeds and can be trained from small pleasures like fetching the newspaper and your slippers to service dogs that guide the blind and mountain and water rescue dogs. No doubt — Labs personify what we love most about dogs Anyone that meets an Amadeuze Labrador puppy falls in love with the breed due to the kind nature of Amadeuze Labradors. Our Labrador puppies are adopted all over the Africa Continent and are the most impressive and loyal ambassadors of our kennel. All our breeding Labrador studs and bitches are x-rayed and have excellent scores on hips and elbows, and all the Labrador puppies will be x-rayed and graded before considered for future breeding purposes. All of our Labradors are also PRA clear by parentage , which means they can never produce Labrador puppies that are infected by active PRA, an eye disease that causes dogs to go blind after a few years. Careful selection and matching of pedigrees bloodlines will always be the first consideration when breeding to any of our Labs. Amadeuze Labrador Breeder is proud to say that all of our Labs have wonderful temperaments which they pass on to their offspring. All the Labrador puppies bred by Amadeuze Labrador Breeder are evaluated at the age of 7 weeks by a professional, qualified Animal Behaviorist. Labrador puppies are tested to determine their individual qualities, temperament type, activity levels and reaction to stressful situations before being allocated to families. We find these tests are invaluable in correctly allocating each Labrador puppy to the most suitable family, and vice versa.

Reasons why your German Shepherd is not eating As pet parents, we all want our four-legged family members to get the best nutrition to keep them strong and healthy, so it can be worrying if their appetite changes. Your dog is stressed or anxious Stress hormones can suppress the appetite. Dental problems Gum recession, tooth root abscesses, fractured teeth, or teething can all cause pain in the mouth that might mean chewing is uncomfortable for your dog. Dogs with dental disease might drop their food, throw it around their mouth, or struggle with dried kibble. If their food is causing some vomiting or diarrhea regularly due to allergies, your dog might not be keen to eat it if they know it makes them feel poorly. Your dog will pick up on this change and might not be hungry at the new feeding time or might be feeling stressed. German Shepherds need around 2 hours a day for adults. Less than this and they might only want a small portion of food to avoid overeating and weight gain. How can I get my German Shepherd eating again? Getting your pup to eat again after a period of inappetence can be challenging, and you want to be sure you are offering your dog the right food to get them back to their usual selves. Here are our top tips to help get your German Shepherd eating again: Switch their food Dogs like variety, so switching up their food by mixing wet and dry or adding some water, or even changing brands every few months can keep them interested. Feed at a specific time each day and stick to a routine Dogs are creatures of routine, and German Shepherds are very sensitive to change. Establish a routine when your dog is a puppy and introduce changes gradually. Your dog will learn to expect and want their food around a certain time, and they may not be hungry outside of it. A behaviorist can help you here, and some simple training techniques will help. Make mealtimes fun Games, interactive feeders, and slow feeding bowls can make mealtime more interesting for your dog, stimulate their senses and make them more enthusiastic about their food. When to see the vet A lack of appetite can be worrying for any pet parent. The vet will examine your dog and might want to do tests to find out what the problem is and get your dog the treatment they need. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are highly intelligent and sensitive dogs, so they can go off their food for reasons as simple as a change in routine or environment, or stress such as separation anxiety. Most adult dogs can go a day or two without food. Puppies cannot go as long without food. When should I worry about my dog not eating? If your dog is not eating for 24 hours or more, or it is a long-term problem then get them checked at the vet. Why does my dog suddenly not want to eat? Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Check Price on Amazon 5. If you give treats just to entice your German Shepherd to eat, you are turning him into a fussy eater! So, are German Shepherds fussy eaters? Now and again, a little healthy treat is just fine. You can also try some fruits or vegetables , especially if the treat cupboard is bare. Your German Shepherd may have also eaten something poisonous while roaming in the garden or fields. Dogs are known for eating anything they can find left lying around or even getting into the garbage! Take care with foods like chocolate or grapes , and never leave these lying around where your dog can get at them, as they can be highly toxic. If your German Shepherd has had his recent vaccinations, sometimes these can cause adverse reactions, including loss of appetite. The good news is this should only be brief — just ensure your dog is drinking plenty of water and keeping himself hydrated. If nothing else seems to be working and you are worried, you should schedule a visit with the veterinarian as soon as you can. He likes to eat at certain times of the day Just like you might not like to eat breakfast at 6 a. Though this can be concerning at first, you should be keeping track of how much food in total your German Shepherd is eating throughout the day. If he still eats about the same amount, he simply might prefer to eat at specific times of the day! On a similar note, your dog may prefer to eat little and often. My German Shepherd used to eat one meal in the morning and one in the evening. However, now that she is older, she prefers to eat both meals in the evening. Take your dog on a long walk before feeding — so he works up an appetite. Give him lots of praise when he eats from his bowl. Make feeding time fun — try putting a lid on his food, so he must remove it first. It gets over , top reviews! If your dog refuses his meal, take his bowl away after 15 minutes and then only put it down again a few hours later. Limit treats to training times only. If he senses that you are stressed and anxious about his loss of appetite, he may also become stressed and not eat at all! A sudden lack of appetite and resulting weight loss can signify other issues going on. Switch His Food If your dog slowly lost interest in food over a few weeks, he might no longer like his current food. Here are some ways to target his diet and boost his loss of appetite. Choose a more fragrant food. Try picking food that smells more like meat and has a more intense aroma. Add wet food or soak his food in warm water. I feed her cold-pressed dog food, which she just adores and continues to thrive on. Hopefully, these steps will fix the situation and return your dog to regular eating habits. Take Him to the Vet Vet visits can be costly, but so are the treatment methods for the condition or disease your dog might currently be experiencing. I would always recommend having a decent pet insurance policy in place, as this will always give you peace of mind. A healthy German Shepherd can go up to five to seven days without eating as long as they are still drinking water. However, if your German Shepherd refuses to drink water for 48 hours, it is time to bring your dog to the emergency veterinary clinic. If your German Shepherd is eating only once a day, it may be due to a routine that has been established over time. However, feeding your dog only once a day can lead to health problems such as gastric dilatation-volvulus GDV. Add variety to the diet and check the consumption. German Shepherd Not Eating and Diarrhea. If your German Shepherd is not eating and has diarrhea, it could be due to a variety of reasons, such as a change in diet, stress, anxiety, or a gastrointestinal infection. When your German Shepherd stops eating, you need to take the necessary steps to figure out the source of the problem and how to address it. Add wet food or warm water to boost his appetite and make his food more palatable and fragrant. Keep an eye on his other behaviors to see how his mood and movements have changed. Call the vet and schedule an appointment to have him checked over. Related Posts You May Like:. Sep 1, Share Determining the causes of a loss of appetite in your German Shepherd is often tricky. The symptom is non-diagnostic and can point to so many reasons. It can indicate minor things or something more serious. Is there nausea or vomiting? Is your pet experiencing GI distress? You should be aware of anything unusual. When symptoms appear together, it can give your veterinarian a shortlist of things to check. Just saying that my German Shepherd is too skinny is vague. It can make learning the root of the problem more difficult. Remember that canines have a keen sense of smell with over 16 times the sensory receptors and 40 times the brain capacity. That means dogs are often more sensitive to different foods. Image Credit: Angeleses, Pixabay 2. You probably know about chocolate. However, there are also several obscure ones, such as avocados and macadamia nuts. Eating Is Painful Dental problems are often a culprit that can turn your pup off its food. Severe cases might make it too painful for your dog to eat. That makes regular dental care imperative. Image Credit: PixieMe, Shutterstock 4. Common types include chemotherapy drugs, pain meds, and some antibiotics. Luckily, the symptoms resolve quickly after your pet goes off the things causing the problems. Fortunately, many are specific to the condition, which makes diagnosis easier. Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss occurs with several of them, including stomach worms, roundworms , and threadworms. They also resolve quickly once they are identified. It can have a similar effect on your canine friend as it does on humans. Think of how you feel in a tense situation. Probably the last thing you want to do is eat. Your body—and that of your German Shepherd—allocate its resources to escaping the threat instead of passive ones like eating. They sometimes experience separation anxiety if they are kept alone for long stretches. It can manifest in many ways, including a loss of appetite. Counterconditioning therapy can help your pup cope better with your absences. Image Credit: DanaTentis, Pixabay 8. Veterinarians can tell you a plethora of stories about the things dogs have swallowed, from socks to rocks to Super Balls. A loss of appetite, vomiting, and pain are the telltale symptoms. The list includes a broad range of conditions, from liver disease to bacterial problems to urinary tract infections. Your vet will likely begin with a complete blood profile. Image Credit: Goran Horvat, Pixabay .Your Pup Has Cancer Cancer often causes a decrease in appetite, too. It can result from the disease or its treatment. The difference is that it can often result in a dramatic weight loss that is visible quickly and noticeably. Keeping your German Shepherd will give your pup its best defense against this disease. Final Thoughts Dogs differ from cats in that they often wear their symptoms on their proverbial sleeves. Related Read:. It can be particularly worrisome if your pup typically loves their food. Well, here is a guide to why your German Shepherd may be having this issue and what you can do to solve it. When should you worry about your German Shepherd not eating, though? This depends on a few different factors. In case their appetite is back after the following meal or the meal after that, then your pooch may be fine. You should continue to keep an eye on their appetite as well as their health and energy levels. It is best to take them to the vet as soon as possible for treatment. In general, if your German Shepherd is still not eating by the second day, take them to the vet as their health can begin to decline after this. There are a couple of things you can try in this instance. In some cases, adding broth or aromatic juices can help get your pooch more excited about mealtime. Mixing in some wet food may work as well. You can also try switching flavors or dog food brands. Instead, buy smaller sample sizes and see if your German Shepherd finds another option more appealing. Remember that dogs can be fussy about aroma, size of kibble, texture, and more. It can take a bit some trial and error to find the perfect fit for your pooch. Or, do you just feed them throughout the day? If so, you are probably giving your dog too much food or they have gotten used to feeding at odd hours. With many breeds, sticking to certain portion sizes and feeding twice or thrice a day, at specific times is best. This ensures that your dog only gets as much food and nutrition as they require. It also makes it easier for you to keep track of their appetite. Gradually increase the hours between meal times until it becomes a daily routine. In turn, they may not have much of an appetite. Adult German Shepherds need up to two hours of exercise each day. In addition to long, brisk walks, they also need to play fetch and Frisbee. Many German Shepherds also require agility training to be mentally stimulated. Make sure your dog meets its exercise requirements daily. Also, try to break up their physical activity into two or more sessions during the day. If you have to work long hours, it is worth it to hire a dog walker to take your dog outside. It can be one of the first or main symptoms. In many instances, a loss of appetite will be followed by other problems. You may notice vomiting or diarrhea. A lack of energy is rather common as well. Dogs who are in physical pain may not feel like eating either. If other symptoms present themselves, take your dog to the vet as soon as possible, regardless of how mild they may be. There is a good chance that the issue will not resolve itself and it may require medical intervention. Your vet will need to conduct a thorough examination and run tests to determine if there is something wrong. If your pooch is suffering from gingivitis, a loose tooth, or some other issue, their teeth and gums may be painful. This discomfort will dissuade them from eating. The following symptoms can be signs of dental disease: bad breath. Health It is not totally uncommon for a German Shepherd will refuse to eat once in a while. Although this is not totally uncommon, it is always a worrying experience for their humans. This article will help you realize some common reasons why GSDs may have a change in appetite to help you know whether or not to be concerned. So, when they refuse to eat, you know that something might be wrong. Sometimes, this might be because of the sensitive gut the breed is known for. But in many cases, it could be a sign that they are sick or in pain. Additionally, this could also be a sign of other conditions like oral problems or parasites. However, there are fussy GSDs that prefer variety. This issue is most common for dogs that are given access to table food or are fed a wide variety of dog food. They might also lose their appetite when they are depressed. In other cases, medicines can cause nausea or digestive upset, which will also keep your dog from eating. If your dog is refusing to eat because of new medications, make sure to bring it up with your vet. Older dogs become less active and have fewer opportunities to work up an appetite. Sometimes, German Shepherds stop eating the dry kibble that they normally eat. Or, they might ditch the kibble entirely in preference of wet dog food. Here are some of the most common reasons why your dog could be refusing to eat dry food: They have dental issues When oral problems get bad enough, your GSD might refuse to eat due to the pain it causes. This could be caused by cavities, a broken tooth, or swollen gums. In this case, a rotation between kibble brands and variants will help. They just prefer another food Dogs might refuse their regular food in hopes that they will be given another that they have tasted and loved. This might be table scraps or another kind of dog food. In cool weather, German Shepherds use up more energy to keep themselves warm. But in the hot summer months, they prefer to lounge around and keep cool. After some exercise, give them time to cool down completely before giving any food. Dogs can survive up to five days without food as long as they keep drinking water. Fasting for this long may have long-term consequences. More critically, it might be a sign of an underlying illness. If they suddenly have no appetite but they normally eat voraciously and never miss a meal, it should definitely be a cause of concern. Just make sure you observe them for any other warning signs. You might also observe changes in their stool consistency or a lack of enthusiasm for their regular activities. Whether or not they have a good reason for refusing food, here are some things you can do to encourage your German Shepherd to eat: Cut down on treats. Your dog can lose their appetite for their regular food when they have plenty of better-tasting treats throughout the day. Make feeding enjoyable. GSDs are always eager to please. Teach them to wait for their food and take it only on command. Then, praise them for finishing their food. Make food more appetizing. Try topping kibble with different types of food that might whet their appetite. Sometimes, a little bit of boiled chicken or beef broth will do the trick. They might not like the print, the ability to see their reflection, or the feeling on their tongue. Using another feeding bowl might help. Give them plenty of exercise. The energetic German Shepherd may need to tire themselves out to work up an appetite. Give your dog the daily exercise they need and then wait at least half an hour after any physical activity before giving them their meals. However, when your dog refuses to eat, you should also keep an eye out for other signs that could be a cause for concern. While many types of food might help jumpstart their appetite, there are several that might do more harm than good. Even if these foods might get them to eat, the effects might be more harmful. Instead, you can first try to give them some wet dog food for German Shepherds or mix in some plain rice and chicken with their kibble. You know what is normal for your dog! If their change in appetite veers too much from their norm it is best to make an appointment with the vet just to be safe. After covering each one in full detail, you may realize that one of the causes sounds familiar to your situation. The next section will provide the best solutions. There are several reasons why German shepherds stop eating their food. These include disagreeing with their kibble, inactivity, lack of feeding schedule, receiving too many treats, boredom, environmental issues, and underlying health issues. More will be explained about the correct diet and brands in the next section. Recommended Read: Why does my German Shepherd have diarrhea? German Shepherds ideally need around 2 hours or more of exercise per day. Appetite is just one of many things closely linked to exercise. Having routines helps them understand their day and allows them to become comfortable in their environment. Most adult GSDs are fed just twice a day. For puppies, this varies. Day grazing should not be something you engage in with your German Shepherd. By sticking to certain times you are training your German Shepherd to become hungry at those times. Yep, it really does work like that! But it could be the case… If your GSD has been eating the same food for a while, he may just be bored of it. Boredom will not make your GSD sick, so if you do see signs of sickness or being unwell, you can rule boredom out. This may be table scrabs or other forms of food. A change in the environment could be a new neighbor, a new pet, a new person in the household, a loss of someone in the house, or maybe you moved house entirely, the list is quite extensive. Think about your close surroundings and if something has changed. This changes when health issues are present. This is original content produced and published by The Puppy Mag www. There are many common allergens in dog food that may be causing the issues. The biggest culprit being chicken. Yep, chicken, as well as beef, pork, and lamb, are all common allergens, despite being used all the time! Try opting for a premium dog food brand that uses either duck, salmon, or turkey as the main protein source. These digest easily and usually cause fewer issues than chicken. Wet dog food is considerably tastier, juicier, has a higher protein content with fewer preservatives and additives. Adding a small amount to every mealtime will be irresistible for your German Shepherd. This working breed needs this kind of physical activity in order to develop a healthy appetite. Consider his environment Have you recently changed where you put the food bowl? On the flip side, you can try moving his bowl to a different spot to see if that has an effect. If you have young children, allow your GSD to eat in peace. Popular German Shepherd Articles:. German Shepherds, like all dogs, need regular sustenance to thrive and remain healthy. There are many reasons why a German Shepherd may develop a lack of appetite or refuse food altogether, and some are more serious than others. German Shepherds may stop eating due to medical issues such as viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections. Environmental factors could also play a role and cause stress, leading to food refusal. Additional reasons include behavioral problems, picky eating, and old age. Read on to learn more about why your dog may not be eating and what you can do about it. German Shepherds And Canine Anorexia Canine anorexia is the term for dogs that refuse to eat—it is a symptom, not a diagnosis. There are two types of canine anorexia including: Pseudo-anorexia — Your German Shepherd may show an interest in food and attempt to eat but cannot do so. He may struggle with chewing, may vomit, or have issues swallowing. True anorexia — Dogs with true anorexia show little to no interest in food. Dogs of all breeds, including German Shepherds, may present with either form of canine anorexia. Some canine viruses may be treated at home, whereas others, like parvovirus, require immediate veterinary care. Always let a veterinarian rule out any medical issues before assuming your German Shepherd is just finicky. Viral Infections In German Shepherds While parvovirus is more common in puppies, it can wreak havoc on an unvaccinated adult German Shepherd. The virus causes numerous gastrointestinal symptoms, including loss of appetite and vomiting. Over a quarter of dogs with parvovirus die. Another less-concerning virus that often causes loss of appetite is kennel cough. It is common among dogs, including German Shepherds, who often socialize with other canines outside the home. Like parvovirus, kennel cough can be prevented with a vaccine. Parasitic Infections In German Shepherds German Shepherds infected with parasites may show several symptoms, including loss of appetite. The loss of appetite could be due to other symptoms common in parasitic infections, including abdominal pain, nausea, bloating, and fatigue. In addition, an adult German Shepherd should take regular flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives to reduce the likelihood of future parasitic infections. Bacterial Infections Most bacterial infections, including campylobacteriosis , are easily treated with antibiotics. Diarrhea and vomiting can lead to potentially fatal dehydration. Puppies are more susceptible to bacterial infections. It is a condition that causes the body to produce an insufficient number of digestive enzymes in the pancreas. However, some dogs may vomit and have anorexia. This condition cannot be cured, but vets can treat it with prescribed digestive enzymes and a specific diet. In some cases, a dog may experience an overgrowth of bacteria, leading to the need for antibiotic therapy. Other problems with the organs can lead to a loss of appetite in German Shepherds. These issues may be the result of other infections, congenital defects, or injury. External factors can, in fact, cause a German Shepherd to lose interest in eating. A New Environment If your German Shepherd is new to your home, it might not yet feel comfortable in its new environment. Being separated from its previous owners, siblings, or other canine companions can cause a lot of stress. Stress manifests in strange ways and may cause appetite loss. Loss Of Companion German Shepherds are incredibly loyal to their people and other pets in the home. German Shepherds are prone to separation anxiety, and it may present as a loss of appetite. If your German Shepherd is used to morning walks, afternoon playtime, and regularly scheduled feedings, a change in that routine could confuse them. It may take time for your German Shepherd to adjust to the new schedule. Even simple changes, such as a new feeding bowl or feeding your GSD in a different room, could cause them to eat less. This chewing is usually to relieve the pain and discomfort associated with the eruption of adult teeth. Any gastrointestinal issue can cause a loss of appetite. Make sure to offer your German Shepherd plenty of safe chew toys. German Shepherds are medium to large breed dogs, so keep their size in mind when purchasing chew toys to prevent choking, obstruction, or other digestive issues. These toys are available in different sizes, for dogs up to 88 pounds. There are different color options and the soft rubber and squeaky core help stimulate your GSD. If your German Shepherd chews on random objects, and you suspect that they may have swallowed something, reach out to your vet immediately. Some dogs prefer wet, canned food, whereas others go crazy over dry kibble. Old Age May Cause A German Shepherd To Stop Eating Viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections, along with other medical issues, can cause a German Shepherd to stop eating, but sometimes it just comes along with old age. As dogs age, they may lose their appetite. This is normal as long as the dog is eating and not rapidly losing weight. Around this time, it might be appropriate to transition your German Shepherd to a senior diet. Remember that German Shepherds still need high protein, even in old age, to keep their muscles healthy. Final Thoughts Ensuring that your German Shepherd is happy and healthy is an integral part of being a responsible pet owner. If your GSD stops eating, have the dog examined by a veterinarian. If the symptoms persist, your veterinarian may recommend that you take your dog to a specialist. Ways to make your German Shepherds eat There are many options to get your German Shepherd to eat again. Here are some solutions that you can introduce: 1 Increase activity to stimulate appetite 2 Introduce a consistent schedule 3 Limit the feeding time to 15 minutes 4 Add high-value food to their meal 5 Make mealtime fun 7 Create a safe eating environment 1 Increase activity to stimulate appetite German shepherd dogs need an average of 2 hours a day of exercise. Those 2 hours should be made up of physical and mental stimulation. Walking and playing fetch are everyday physical activities. Mental activities could include training and puzzle toys. Exercise does not have to be done all at once and can be more accessible when broken up throughout the day. Disruptions can affect their appetites, so keeping consistent is vital. Meals should be offered twice daily, ideally after a walk or activity. Make sure to choose times that you can keep as consistent as possible. Automatic feeders can be used if your schedule varies and it is hard to keep to exact times. Portions are dependent on the weight and life stage of your German shepherd. If food is left out, your dog may start grazing and not eating the entire meal because your dog is used to having it left out. Dry food can become stale and wet food should not be left out for long, or it can cause digestive problems. Limiting feeding time should encourage them to eat while it is available. Plain chicken and unsweetened canned pumpkin can help to settle an upset stomach and entice your dog to eat. You can also add a portion of wet food to dry kibbles. Adding broth to dry food can make it more palatable. Ensure the broth you use does not have added harmful ingredients like onions or garlic and is low in sodium. Treats you already use and know your dog likes can also make a high-value mix to encourage them to eat. You can purchase or create puzzle toys that provide that mental stimulation and fun. A puzzle toy can easily be made by rolling up dry food in a towel and then letting your dog sniff out and unravel it. You could also fill a cardboard box with pieces they must get through. There are many cost-effective ways to make meals fun. If your dog is not eating, he may be shy, and feeding by hand helps them to build trust and be more comfortable. It can also help impulse control, rewarding good behavior by having self-control. Hand feeding can combat resource guarding, letting the dog know that food comes when you are around. These go alongside training, and german shepherd dogs are a working class breed, so being rewarded for work can help increase appetite. It can include changes inside or outside the home. It may be too loud or too many people around while trying to eat. If your dog has a crate, this may be an excellent place to feed them. A quiet and secluded place could also be a great way to get them eating again. Dogs can be sensitive to changes, so keeping a secured area where they are fed is essential. Conclusion A dog that is not eating is worrisome. However, if your dog is not eating and is either vomiting, having diarrhea, or both, contact your veterinarian within hours. Source: AKC Hayley is a writer and animal lover. She is an avid reader which led to a love of writing. Post navigation.

Sometimes we have adults dogs for sale, Contact us for more information please. Sound of mind and body, rich in pigment and personality. Loyal companions who are wonderful to live with. Our dogs are selected for temperament, health, and strength. All breeding dogs are X-Rayed for their hips and elbows. Pups are whelped and raised in a family environment and have plenty of open space for play and development. Every puppy that leaves our program is seen by a professional veterinarian, vaccinated, and dewormed. We encourage communication with all of our clients and are available to help and answer questions. We welcome your inquires. Please email or call for a phone consultation. We look forward to meeting all of our prospective buyers in person. Puppies do not go to new homes with breeding rights. Debora and her family were so kind. We got to pick out our puppy when they were around 4 weeks old. They let us take our time finding the right fit. They talked to us about all their personalities and helped us understand the breed better. When it was time to come home at 8 weeks, Debora told us all about the vet visit and gave us tips about what to do when bringing our pup home. They clearly loved these little guys and provided a safe, clean and nurturing environment for them. We felt very comfortable here and highly recommend them if you are considering a German Shepherd puppy. Proudly created with Wix. Used as police dogs and family dogs alike, this popular mix is renowned for their courage, loyalty, and intelligence. If you want to find the right pure bred puppy for your family, look no further than the shepherd puppies at CT Breeder. Though they love to play, they were bred to be working dogs and thus thrive off of having a job to do. Throughout history, the German Shepherd has been used in the Military, on police forces, as guide dogs for the blind, and even for herding livestock. Though he may embody some of the best canine characteristics, he is not for everyone. He needs a family that is willing to put up with his high-energy and need for constant activity. You will find that your new puppy will need a lot of exercise in order to stave off the boredom this breed commonly experiences, and therefore nix excessive barking and chewing before it becomes a habit. Additionally, this breed is not one for being left alone. When left by himself for long periods of time, he may become bored and frustrated, and act out in ways that may try your patience, such as chewing up your shoes or barking incessantly. Though a great watchdog, the breed is oftentimes suspicious of those outside of his family. He requires extensive training and early socialization in order to become the socialable, well-rounded dog that you envisioned. Caring for Your Adopted Shepherd Puppy German Shepherds were bred to herd livestock all day, so naturally they have a lot of energy. Built for constant action, your puppy will need to be walked several times a day; if you have an area to do so, it is best to let her run around, unleashed. Taking her to the dog park or a dog beach would be ideal, as they get both socialization and exercise in one helping. Exercising your puppy properly will ensure that he or she does not chew, dig, or bark, activities that tend to turn off most dog owners. German Shepherd dogs like to chew. However, if they pick the wrong thing to chew on, they can damage their teeth, consume something that makes them sick, or even choke. Though the German Shepherd is generally a healthy dog, they are prone to certain health conditions, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, gastric dilatation-volvulus bloating, which can be life threatening , degenerative myelopathy, and allergies. To ensure the best health for your puppy, feed them the recommended amount of food a day, make sure they are getting all of the recommended nutrients, and exercise them properly. It is never okay to feed your dog one large bowl a day; rather, it is recommended to feed your shepherd four cups a day, divided into two meals. Shepherds tend to grow quickly during their first year, making them prone to bone disorders. A well-balanced diet will help them grow at a steady pace. Until then, do not allow him to run, jump, or play on hard surfaces. Training Your German Shepherd In order to ensure the most harmonious life with your German Shepherd, consistent training is key. Always reward positive behaviors, and take measures to extinguish negative ones before they become a habit. Some things to consider include: Consistently reward positive behaviors with praise. Keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated, but keep it fun. Be consistent in your expectations. Make sure he is well socialized. Give your pup plenty of love and care. Do not yell at your dog. Do not lock your dog up or put her outside because you have not trained her how to properly behave. Do not isolate your dog. Do not reward bad behaviors. Do not neglect, shame, or blame your dog. Do not give up on her. Properly training your shepherd will ensure a peaceful and fulfilling life with her new family. If you want to adopt a German Shepherd but do not feel confident in your training abilities, our experienced and talented trainers at CTBreeder are known for utilizing the best training practices that are breed specific. If you buy a puppy from our new litter, you will get lifetime dog training guaranteed to ensure a lasting bond with your new pup. We have male, female, red, sable, and much more. In addition to our selection of designer and purebred puppies for sale, we offer expert dog training, professional pet grooming and the best pet supplies, pet foods and pet products available at the low prices. Purebred German Shepherd Puppies For Sale We're to help make your puppy experience comfortable Hayes Haus is a nationally-recognized breeder of family-first working line German Shepherd puppies. Because we strictly favor temperament rather than appearance, the Hayes Haus breeding standard guarantees consistently excellent German Shepherd family dogs for Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire, and beyond! Have you heard about our "Quickstart" trained puppy program? Or if you want to see our currently available list, just select that option. We truly are enjoying her. Thanks again for all of your help over the last couple of years. Black Coat Puppies Black seems like a common German Shepherd color, but it's not as popular as you may think! Solid black German Shepherds can easily be confused with actually often confused with bicolor or black and tan dogs from a distance, which contributes to the belief that black is most common. In fact, amongst the four official coat colors of the GSDs sable, bicolor, black and tan, and straight black , pure black puppies are the least common you'll find! This is true because the black color gene is the least dominant recessive of the four color genes. If you want to buy an all black German Shepherd puppy from Hayes Haus, you may have to wait a bit. We rarely have solid black German Shepherd puppies for sale. The Sable coat color in German Shepherds is the most dominant gene. More dominant than GSDs of other colors because sable will show even if there is only one sable allele. Many of the pups that become available at Hayes Haus are sable in color and we often have a mix of light sable and dark sable puppies. Click here to request info about current sable German Shepherd puppies for sale at Hayes Haus. Most litters we have are sable or bicolor puppies, but from time to time we also offer all black as well as black and tan puppies. Joining our personalized litter updates list is highly recommended because it will give you the best puppy searching experience possible. You'll receive alerts when a new litter is born if the litter has puppies matching the preferences you select. You're also able to select the time-frame for when you prefer to receive updates. This way, no spam, just puppies! So if you're looking to buy a German Shepherd puppy in Connecticut and are having trouble finding CT based breeder, we're only a short drive away. We primarily host visits on weekends to make it easy for you to drive up from Connecticut with your family to visit the puppies and meet our team. West Newbury is just a few minutes South of the New Hampshire line. In fact, many of our puppy owners are from towns along the NH border. Here is Axle, he is amazing.They are inseparable! When you take your puppy home, it will be: Up to date on all required shots Free of worms and parasites Our future health guarantee is unmatched in the dog breeding industry: Protected against genetic health issues that affect working ability for one full year Hips guaranteed against severe hip dysplasia for two full years Hips guaranteed against severe hip dysplasia for three full years if fed a raw diet of Life's Abundance food What's Included With Your GSD Puppy? Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in Connecticut? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Connecticut cost? Some German shepherd puppies for sale in CT may be more expensive than others because of differences in gender, quality of breeder, coat color, among others. Does your network provide German Shepherd puppies from out of state? We work with breeders and companies from across the continental US, and they all have previous experience of flying dogs reliably to any major airport in the country. But with our network, you could even find some of our partner CT German Shepherd breeders living right in your neighborhood! Whether near or far, Uptown Puppies has options for you. How do you screen breeders for German Shepherd puppies near me? We connect with breeders who have proven that they adhere to the highest standards in animal welfare. Check out our Breeder Pledge page for the full details. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places? Getting a dog is a big decision, and we want it to go as smoothly as possible. That means making sure the puppy you get is a healthy, b raised with love, and c fits your lifestyle and family. In so many words, that is the service we provide. What is a puppy mill? A puppy mill is a business where people care about profit, not puppies. A lot of Connecticut German Shepherd rescues were former puppy mill parent dogs that were only kept alive to produce litters to sell on shady sites and pet shops. Are there any purebred German Shepherd puppies for sale near me? What is the MatchMaker process? Tell us what gender you prefer, what temperament you want your dog to have, the size of your home, and any other important considerations you might have, so we can find you a puppy that fits your lifestyle perfectly. How do I know I can trust you? There are thousands of German Shepherd puppies for sale in Connecticut, but you have your work cut out for you when you work with us. Uptown Puppies is in the business of building families by helping our clients pick out their new four-legged family member among our network of responsible and ethical breeders. Some of the families we have helped build share their stories below—we hope we can be part of your story too.