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We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Which is why a lack of exercise can be the root cause for many destructive behavioral problems for active dog breeds such as Labs. As WebMD. This is a game that combines both mental and physical activity. To start, teach your dog the specific names for his or her toys by pointing at them and repeating the names. Ask your dog to fetch a particular toy. If they bring back the wrong one, throw it back and ask again until you get the right toy. This can be played indoors—as long as you have enough space—or outdoors. And if your Lab especially a puppy grabs any part of you or your clothes, stop the game for a time before trying again. Make a circle of about 20 feet or more with your Labrador square in the middle and take turns calling him or her to you. Praise your dog or give a treat when they come, and then step back to let someone else call. Once your dog understands how it works, call faster and faster for a great doggie workout. You can also have family members in different parts of the house calling to give your Labrador the exercise they need on a rainy day. If you have the room, you can set up the hurdles indoor and have your dog run through them until blissfully tired. You can also set them up in the yard and create a true agility course, complete with jumps, twists and turns. Your Labrador has an incredible nose. Keep it in top shape by hiding treats around the house or yard and asking your dog to find them all. You can hold one treat in your hand and let your Lab sniff it before sending him or her out to search to give an idea of what to look for. Alternatively, you can use people instead of treats and have your dog find your loved ones instead for a twist on the game. Just make sure to have treats on hand to reward your Labrador for their excellent finds. Kong makes some of the most popular models, but you have a lot of options to choose from when it comes to picking the right toy for your Labrador. Designed to help cut down on boredom, food dispensing toys are like puzzle treats for your dog. Click here for our list of the best chew toys for labs and strong chewers. Upgrade Your Fetch Toy To a Frisbee Unlike balls that tend to sink and roll away, Frisbees hold air much longer, making them a very fun toy for your Labrador. See if you can teach your Lab to jump and grab the Frisbee midair for even more of a workout. As for durability, you can choose between soft Frisbees your dog can easily grip with their teeth yes, even puppy teeth! Then you can scatter multiple toys around the house and give the command for your dog to put them all away. Start by having your dog sit and show them a piece of their favorite treat. Hide it under a plastic or Styrofoam cup right in front of them. Once your Labrador has gotten the idea of how it works, rub a piece of treat over three cups to keep your dog from cheating with his nose. Then place the treat under one of the three cup and ask your dog to find it. If your dog is a whiz at identifying the right cup, you can then make things more challenging by slowly rotating the cups. Have you any favorite games you like to play with your Labrador? Let us know in the comments! Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Labs are very active dogs, especially in the first few years of their lives. They will have a lot of energy to spare every day, so a few long walks will become part of your daily routine. This will not only help exercise your pup, but also keep him happy. Make sure you spend at least minutes walking your lab. Once your dog is a little older and better coordinated, you can try letting him run alongside your bike while you go for a slow ride. This will be a great form of exercise for him, and he will get to spend some quality time with you in the process. Just make sure the leash is loose enough to allow him enough space between himself and your bike. Watch for traffic and take breaks if your dog needs one! Practice caution when riding a bike with your dog. Labs are notorious for their love of water. Everything from tiny puddles from the rain to backyard swimming pools are going to attract them to play. If the weather permits, take your dog for a swim! Labs have a tendency to become destructive when left to their own devices. Provide your lab with plenty of toys to chew on and play with. Strong, durable chew toys are great options. Redirect those chewing habits and behaviors to toys and keep your personal belongings safe from a gnawing pup. Getting your dog working for his food will add enrichment to his environment and increase his mental fatigue. Food puzzles are a great place to start, as there are many commercial options available, but you can also make your own puzzle using something as simple as a towel or an empty container. Fortunately, labs are easily trained. The instructor will help you learn the skills you need to train your dog properly, and help you along the way. Teaching your dog a new trick using positive reinforcement based training is another great way to get your dog to use his brain. This will strengthen your relationship in the process and tire him out, making it less prone to destruction. Labs love to be around people and other dogs, so find a local dog park to check out with your lab. Just make sure your dog is treated for flea and tick prevention to avoid taking any pests home from the park. If you are thinking about adding another dog to your family, labs tend to mesh well with breeds like collies, golden retrievers, beagles, and corgis, as these breeds are also energetic and sociable. Also, consider adding a dog of the opposite sex, as dogs of the same sex might have issues with dominance. Written by Small Door's medical experts Being stuck at home is disappointing for both you and your dog. Check out our tips below for how you can keep your dog entertained indoors. Dog activity requirements Dogs need both physical and mental stimulation to stay fit, healthy and happy. Physical exertion comes from walking, running and playing, whilst many different things can provide mental stimulation. From tracking scents outside, to concentrating hard on obedience training, or attempting to get kibble out of a puzzle toy — tough mental concentration results in a tired, happy dog. Ideas to entertain your dog indoors 1. Practice short bursts of obedience training each day Training your dog provides great mental stimulation. Teach your dog a new trick Try teaching your dog a new trick. A great trick to try is tidying up. Give your dog a stuffed Kong or a food-dispensing puzzle toy Stuff a Kong or a similar toy with pieces of kibble, mixed in with a tasty treat like a spoonful of peanut butter, canned pumpkin or mashed banana. Pro tip — you can freeze it to make it last longer for your pup! Puzzle toys and food dispensing toys are great for mental stimulation as well as dogs who gobble up their meals too fast! Some of our favorite food puzzle toys are made by Trixie or Nina Ottoson. Let them watch the world go by Dogs love to sit by the window. If you can, set up a safe spot for your pup where they can see out of the window, and if you feel comfortable doing so, open the window a crack for them to enjoy the smells and sounds of the outdoors. Teach your dog the name of their toys Teaching your dog the names of their toys is not as hard as it may sound. This can be a great activity, especially if you spoil your pup with lots of toys. Start by playing with one toy and give it a name while you do — tell your dog to fetch the specific toy by name and give lots of praise when they bring back the correct one. Eventually, see if your dog can pick out the toy by name out of a pile of toys. Once they understand the name, try moving onto another toy and repeating the process. Dogs love new things. Hide some toys in a cupboard for a few days, then bring them out again for the novelty factor! Other games you can adapt for indoor play include throwing a very lightweight ball in a safe area for your dog to catch or fetch, provided there is nothing breakable around. When they succeed, make sure to react super enthusiastically and reward them so they know they did a good job and enjoy the game as much as you did! Hide treats around your home and let them sniff them out throughout the day. If you repeat this over several days, make sure to vary the placement of the treats to keep it interesting for your dog. Create an indoor obstacle course If you have enough room, why not set up a homemade obstacle course for your pup? Teach your pup the basics of agility , jumping over some small boxes, weaving through stacks of books, and lying down on a blanket at the end. Another great one to keep kids entertained too, you could even work up to hosting your own dog show with an agility course and obedience category with your kids as dog handlers! Learn scent work Our dogs explore and understand their world through scent, so scent work games are a great way to keep Fido occupied by putting their nose to work. For these games, all you need is some dog treats and various household items. When they choose correctly, open your hand and give them the treat. Muffin tin puzzles: Using a muffin baking tin, tennis balls, and dog treats, place treats in a couple of the tins and cover all the holes with tennis balls. The shell game: Using three to four cups, place a treat under one of the cups for larger dogs, you may want to use plastic cups or even upside down flower pots. Let your dog sniff around and discover what cup the treat is under. When your dog paws at the correct cup, lift it up to reveal the treat while praising them. Box search: Using empty cardboard boxes, put several boxes out on the floor. Place a treat inside one or more of the boxes, while your dog is out of the room. Bring your dog into the room and let them search for the box which has the treat inside. When they paw at or nudge the correct box, reveal the treat and give them lots of praise. Summary of how to keep your dog entertained indoors Just like humans, dogs need a balance of physical and mental exercise. Related articles. How to keep your Labrador entertained Walk it Labradors are a breed that is meant to get exercise on a daily basis in order to be fully stimulated. When they do not get enough exercise it can cause them to behave abnormally and to be more energetic around the home. Generally, it is recommended to give them an hour of exercise per day. If yours is not getting that much it would help to start giving it more exercise. Play fetch One effective way to wear it out quickly is to get it to play fetch which is effective because it gets your Lab to do a lot of sprinting without much rest which will help to wear it out quickly. It will also get it used to interacting with you in a positive way and it will help to make it more responsive to your command. Teach it to swim Another option would be to teach it to swim which is also an effective way to exercise it since it gets it to do a lot of work in a low impact way and it is especially useful in the summer. Most Labradors take to water naturally but there are some that do not. However, there are ways to get it to like swimming that I talk about here. Give it toys One way to keep it entertained without your direct involvement would be to give it toys to play with. By doing so you will be able to keep it occupied with something that you want it to be occupied with. Give it lots of training Another way to keep it stimulated would be to give it lots of training. By doing so you should be able to get it to use up a lot of energy listening to you and to become better behaved. If you have not given your Labrador much training yet, it would help to start by training it the basics such as to sit and stay in an environment without many distractions and then to build up from there. Give it puzzles Another way to entertain it without your direct involvement would be to give it puzzle games to play with. There are a number of puzzle games that you can buy that are designed to make your Labrador think and put its attention into it in order to get the reward. Play tug of war with it Another way to entertain it would be to play tug of war with it. Use a dog walker When you are unable to exercise your Labrador yourself, one option would be to make use of a dog walker. There are apps you can download now that will allow you to find a dog walker in your local area. Walk it with other dogs Another way to wear it out more and to get it to require less entertainment around the home would be to walk it with other dogs. By doing so your Labrador should wear itself out more by running around with the other dogs. Give it chew toys Another way to entertain it would be to give it chew toys to chew on. By doing so you should be able to keep its focus on chewing something that you want it to and to avoid having it do things such as chewing on your sofa. Doggy daycare If you will not be at home for a long time one option would be to take it to a doggy daycare so that you can have them look after it while you are away. If it is a puppy then it will require a lot of attention but you will be limited in how much exercise you can give it. This is because, when they are puppies, their joints and bones are still developing and lots of exercise could damage them. It is also important to remember that it will not be able to control its bladder as well yet so it will be necessary to avoid leaving it for long periods. Ways to give it attention would be to play with it, train it and to give it exercise. Last Updated February 13, .We all love taking our dogs for some good outdoor fun, but depending on the weather or air quality , it can sometimes be a little tricky to go on long walks or trips to the park safely. With a little creativity and motivation, your home can be transformed into a canine playground. Here are some ways you can entertain your companion dog while indoors. Dog puzzle We all know dogs are intelligent, so it should come as no surprise that they love games that require a little bit of problem-solving. There are all kinds of dog puzzles that provide all sorts of benefits such as increased mental capacity, a longer attention span, and better behavior overall. The shell game All you need for this game are treats and two or more opaque cups. Place a treat under one of the cups while your dog watches, then give a cue to turn over the cup with the treat under it. Next, repeat but switch the cups around a few times so your dog has to think. You can repeat this a few times and raise the difficulty level by adding more cups. This game is great for mental stimulation and increasing focus. Dogs love to sniff things fire hydrants, strangers, dirty clothes , and this game will put their sense of smell to the challenge. Not only will it increase problem-solving skills, it will also promote activity and alleviate boredom. There are different apps that focus on different goals, but what all humane ones have in common is the notion that rewarding good behavior positive reinforcement and redirecting unwanted behavior into a positive action will result in a well-behaved dog. If you train with patience, enthusiasm, consistency, and clarity, your dog is likely to have a great time and look forward to each session. Try some agility Inject a little imagination into your interactive games by setting up an obstacle course using different household items. You can teach your dog to jump over pillows, weave through table legs, or run through a tunnel just throw a blanket over some chairs —all for a reward. The more creative, the better! For more ideas, contact your local dog agility group. Playing a short game of fetch or tug-of war or running through some training exercises for five or 10 minutes a few times throughout the day will give you both a boost and is a good way to tire your pup out and dispel feelings of boredom. Hide and seek For this game, your dog has to be able to sit and stay reliably while you go and hide somewhere in the house. You can start out hiding in plain sight like behind a chair and gradually make your hiding places harder and harder such as in closets, under beds, on the countertop, etc. Once discovered, lavishly dole out the treats and praise. Keep away This game requires at least two people, so grab another household member if you have one the more, the merrier! The challenge for your dog is to try to jump up and grab the toy. This is a fun workout—but do make sure that your pup actually gets to catch the toy after every few tosses as a reward! Go for a car ride If bad weather or air quality are keeping you indoors, it might be good to get out of the house by taking your canine companion for a car ride. Riding in the car gives dogs an exciting adventure, allowing them to explore while keeping them out of harsh weather. Subscribe to a YouTube channel for dogs The channel Relax My Dog uploads calming music and TV for dogs, featuring drone footage of wide open landscapes and nature trails that help soothe hyperactive canines. Make homemade treats You can never have too many dog treats, and showing your dog some extra love with homemade treats is a great way to reinforce good behavior. Or if your pup needs something refreshing to cool down, try freezing treats in ice cubes to make dog-friendly Popsicles! For more tips on how to entertain your companion dog indoors, visit Canine Enrichment on Facebook and check out the awesome dog toys on our website that your best friend will love! If you buy something after clicking the Amazon links on this page, a percentage of the qualifying purchase will be donated to PETA and help us protect more animals from exploitation. Follow Us. If you decide to make a purchase from one of the links marked by an asterisk, we may earn a small commission on that sale. This is at no extra cost to you. Mental Stimulation For Dogs As a society, we long ago recognized that animals in captivity of any kind begin to behave differently than those in the wild. This is true even if they were born into that environment and have never known anything else. It even applies if their species came into existence paralleled with domestication, like the modern dog. Much of being a good pet parent and trainer to your dog has to do with recognizing whether or not your home environment and daily routine are meeting the biological needs that your dog has. He chews on anything and everything in the house. He gets into the trash constantly. He follows you around constantly when you are home. Behaviors like these often crop up with a bored dog. You might think he just needs more space, but even zoo animals in huge outdoor enclosures develop problematic behaviors from boredom — called stereotypic behaviors. Enrichment and mental stimulation! What is Dog Enrichment? Enrichment includes a change in scenery, toys, new scents, social interactions, and any kind of mental stimulation. Dog enrichment can include training sessions, going for a walk, playtime with you or another dog, toys, food treats, or even having the radio or TV on for auditory stimulation. In the zoo community, enrichment is a huge component to working with exotic animals in captivity. And, thanks to the zoo community and their push for enrichment research, dog trainers and behaviorists have a deeper understanding of the consequences of bored animals and the benefits that enrichment can provide. What Mental Stimulation Can Do Here are a few generalizations we can now make about the benefits of enrichment, or mental stimulation, for your dog at home: Bored dogs are destructive dogs. These include behaviors like pacing, chewing on non-food items, obsessive licking, and over-grooming themselves or housemates. Bored dogs are hyperactive. Enriched dogs adapt more easily to stress. This is particularly useful information to any who have dogs that deal with anxiety during their daily life: for example, aggression toward the mailman or other dogs walking by, anxiety during thunderstorms or fireworks, or separation anxiety. Under-stimulated dogs can become overweight and suffer more joint problems. Veterinarians agree that providing mental stimulation increases the overall amount of movement in dogs and can raise their heart rate — both of which contribute to the healthy amount of physical activity dogs need to stay fit. So, what are some fun ways to add mental stimulation for dogs? Brain Toys for Dogs The absolute easiest thing a pet owner can do to reduce boredom for her pooch is to leave him with some challenging dog toys. There are tons of new, safe, dog mental stimulation toys on the market! A few of my favorites include these puzzle toys that dispense treats to your dog once he unlocks the mechanism for dispersion. This puzzle has a unique and fun design! The reviews for this one are great. Well worth a try! Ideally, it should take minutes for Fido to retrieve all of his breakfast. Not all dog enrichment toys have to include food rewards. After all, one of the side benefits of enrichment is preventing your dog from gaining weight in the first place, right? The reviews are great for this one! You can drop a few scents in between the layers for Fido to sniff around and discover. Training games, or mind games for dogs, include anything that makes your pooch use his noggin for something other than sleeping or eating. Teach your dog how to learn with the use of a clicker. This game involves you teaching your dog to climb inside a cardboard box, and full instructions on this game can be found here. Nose games are great mental games for dogs to put their sniffer to work. In addition to using various scents with the Snuffle Mat, you can add unique scents inside dog-proof containers around your yard or house. Use safe scents, like lavender oil or scents specifically prepared for dog nose work. These are available online. Present both closed fists to your dog, and only give him the treat when he sniffs the correct hand! Before releasing your dog to the backyard for some afternoon exercise and potty breaks, toss a handful of kibble into the yard. Whenever I do this one with my dogs, they will spend 20 minutes or more investigating the whole yard every day for the next three days! When you need to get Fido out from underfoot at home, take a handful of mini milkbones and place them in random locations around the house. Be sure nothing around the hiding spot is able to be chewed on or damaged by your dog rummaging around. Great places include on the seat of a dining room chair, in the far corner of the room, or on a low windowsill for tall dogs. My German Shepherd loved this game — anytime she would get bored, she would wander the house, sniffing high and low to see if there was anything hiding for her. Mental Stimulation for Dogs A ride in the car is a great way to entertain your pup for a while. More and more cafes are welcoming pets to sit at your feet while you enjoy a coffee, and there are lots of stores that allow dogs on leashes for a stroll Home Depot, Lowes, and Bass Pro Shops are all pup-friendly and very stimulating for dogs. We hope that this information has inspired you with a newfound appreciation of the positive benefits of brain training for dogs! Whether you pick up some puzzle toys, create a change in your routine, or develop some dog brain teasers of your own, any form of enrichment or mental stimulation is great for your dog. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. At-Home Tips for Keeping Your Pets Busy and Engaged April 23, One key to a happy and healthy pet is regular enrichment, keeping their environments safe and exciting and allowing them to engage in their innate behaviors such as sniffing or chewing in dogs. For many pet parents right now, extended and prolonged time at home may be making it difficult to stay engaged and busy, and boredom can lead to destructive and undesirable behavior patterns for some pets. While families are busy working and learning from home, it's important for dogs and cats to do the same! These enrichment ideas are great ways to keep your furry friends happy, healthy and on best buddy behavior while in quarantine. Staying Active In More Ways than One Is Key In addition to physical exercise, there are many fun and free ways to give your dog or cat a mental workout from the comfort of your home. For dogs: Use a snuffle mat for offering treats or dry food or stuff a puzzle toy with yummy food like plain yogurt, peanut butter or their meal for a fun and delicious challenge that will keep your dog busy and mentally stimulated. Cardboard boxes of all sizes , paper towel rolls, PVC pipes with holes drilled into the sides or plastic jugs can be used. Set up a scavenger hunt so your pup can put their powerful nose to work. Hide treats around a room in partial view, or even in cardboard boxes, empty paper towel or toilet paper rolls, cereal boxes or egg cartons, to be discovered. For cats: Offer their meals or treats in food puzzle toys for kitties. Provide objects for them to explore, such as cardboard boxes, paper shopping bags with the handles cut off , bottle caps, packing paper and toys that encourage them to investigate various openings with their paws. Position bird and squirrel feeders outside windows where your cat can observe animals coming and going during the day or even try playing videos of birds and squirrels on your tv, computer or phone! Check out our full list of DIY projects you can craft to help with enrichment for your cat! Preparing Them for Alone Time Again When our regular work and school routines commence again, your dog or cat may be left confused once everyone is rushing out the door instead of spending time at home. Even while you and your family are home, start to prepare your pet by designating time for them to spend alone, comfortably, throughout the day. Tips to helping them adjust: Create a cozy, inviting place for your dog or cat to nap away from all the activity of remote work and school. You can put on some soothing music. When giving your pet time away from you, offer your dog tasty chews to keep them busy. You can purchase all sorts of interesting and easily digestible chews online such as bully sticks, or you can fill a puzzle toy with a tasty treat and freeze it. Both dogs and cats will be entertained for some time with an interactive food-puzzle toy. There are many free game apps for cats to play with on their own. You can also find battery-operated toys online that may keep your cat busy and happy on their own. Leave your home and take a stroll outside without your dog occasionally to practice leaving the house for short durations. Other Ways to Help:. Keeping your dog entertained can be a challenge, and simply trying to come up with new ways to keep your dog entertained can be more exhausting than actually getting up and doing it. By playing with your dog a few times a day you can decrease the likelihood of them developing destructive habits such as excessive barking or chewing. Play a Game of Find The Treats Nose work games are one of the easiest ways to tire out your dog, and they can be played indoors. To play all you have to do is grab some treats and have your dog watch in a stay position as you place them around the room. Have them stay in another room as you hide the treats, and start hiding them in spots they have to sniff out such as under a rug. Play the the Shell Game The shell game is a simple problem solving game for dogs. To play the shell game with your dog let your dog watch as you place a treat under one of three cups. Praise them like crazy, then rinse and repeat. If you want to keep your dog busy for awhile try stuffing a Kong with some of their favorite treats. You can freeze some peanut butter or broth inside, or just put some treats in there and give your dog something to work for. Play a Game of Tug of War Playing a game of tug of war is one of the best ways to engage in meaningful play with our dogs. And contrary to what some people say playing tug will not make your dog aggressive, and letting them win will not make them dominant. Letting your dog win just makes the game more fun for your dog, and it will encourage them to play more. Dogs that play tug with their owners have been found to be more obedient and have higher confidence. If you want to impress all of your friends teach your dog to fetch you something from the fridge. Play Interactive Games To keep my dog busy on rainy days I love using interactive games such as tug, find the treats, puzzle games and fetch. Interactive games are an easy way to give your dog plenty of mental stimulation , and they can help cut down on problem behaviors such as excessive chewing or barking. Make Your Dog Work for His Food We give our dogs a nice comfy life — they get a warm bed, lots of attention, and all their meals for free. But our dogs were bred to work alongside us, and a lot of our dogs are missing out on some mentally stimulating activities. You can make your dog perform some tricks before he gets his dinner, or you can have them eat from a food dispensing toy. Have your dog work for their meals by using food dispensing toys. Start by playing with one specific toy and giving it a name while you do. Once your dog has learned that specific toys name you can test their skills by seeing if they can pick it out among their other toys. Dogs have the ability to learn hundreds of words. As your dog gets better at this game you can make it more challenging by increasing the number of toys they have have to sift through. Keep it fun for them by rewarding them handsomely with a treat or quick game of tug when they succeed. This game will give your dog a great mental workout. Teach Your Dog a New Trick Does your dog know how to weave through your legs and jump through a hoop? Does your dog already know a bunch of tricks? Once your dog knows a bunch of tricks you can step it up a notch and combine their learned behaviors into brand new tricks. Teaching your dog a fun new trick like weaving through your legs. Work on Some Clicker Training One of my favorite tips when it comes to dog training is using a clicker. They costs a few bucks and can help make training easier by ensuring you can capture the exact moment to praise them for doing a new trick or command. When you use a clicker you can mark the exact moment your dog made the right choice. Close your fists and hold them out in front of your dog. When your dog sniffs or paws the correct hand open it up and give them the treat. Tip: Chopped up carrots make excellent treats for scent work games and training. Hide and seek might not seem all that complex or entertaining to us, but a lot of dogs get a real kick out of it. There are a ton of dog puzzle toys available, as well as treat dispensing toys like the Kong Wobbler. If you want to give your dog something to chew on for awhile we love Best Bully Sticks and Benebones. Master the Basics of Obedience Training Does your dog know all of the basic obedience commands? Does he have a reliable recall and stay? Even well trained dogs need a refresher course now and then to keep them sharp. All dogs should have a reliable sit, down, stay, drop it, and come here. You can keep your dog interested in his toys by engaging in a game of tug or fetch. Play a Game of Fetch Most of us do have some extra room indoors for a simple game of fetch, but if you live on the 5th floor with a St. Bernard you should probably skip this game. When it comes to playing indoor fetch hallways, stairways, and big living rooms are popular choices. My dog and I love playing soccer in the basement with her Jolly ball. Master The Art of Doggie Massage Learning how to give a dog massage is enriching for owner and dog alike. A nice massage can help soothe and relax nearly any dog. And dog massages are great for older dogs or those with arthritis, since it helps soothe sore and achy joints. Giving your dog a massage reduces anxiety, relieves stress, improves circulation, and creates a great bond between you and your dog. Tip: If your dog has a hard time settling down for a massage you can practice the relaxation protocol. The basic principle of shaping games is to encourage our dogs to try something new. They get to make their own decisions and increase their mental and physical flexibility. You start out with a box on the ground and without any cues let your dog investigate and decide what to do. Shaping can be used with any item, not just a box. Our dogs need to be brushed, bathed, have their teeth brushed , and have their nails trimmed when they start to get long. Some dogs tolerate grooming better than others, and the more you practice using positive rewards the easier it will become. Play a Game of Tag Playing tag is a fun interactive game for dogs, but it does require a partner. Each of you will sit or stand at one side of the room with a toy or some treats. Take turns calling the dog over and rewarding them when he comes. Make sure your dog is receiving lots of positive reinforcement each time they obey. This is a simple and fun way to reinforce a reliable recall. Have your dog jump over some towels, weave through his toys, and then lay down on a blanket. Use your imagination and come up with a set of obstacles for your dog to follow. Once your dog has learned how to jump over the towels you then move onto the toy weave. Building on prior tricks will keep your dog mentally stimulated and encourages focus. Brushing up on dog tricks, making some yummy treats, and playing a game of fetch are all simple ways to keep your dog busy. And seriously, a few minute sessions of chasing bubbles can work wonders for your dog. You can either buy your dog a new toy to get their enthusiasm going or you can rotate their toys. Instead of giving your dog access to all of their toys all the time give them a couple. Toys take on a whole new value once you get involved and start playing with it as well. Make your own DIY dog toy by braiding some old t-shirts into a tug toy. Make a Doggie Play Date Does your dog have some nice dog friends? Invite them over for some play time. Brush up on Some Old Tricks Just like us our dogs can benefit from a refresher now and then. When was the last time you asked your dog to roll over or play dead? Teach Your Dog to Grab His Leash Before we go for a walk I have my dog go and grab her leash, then she has to fetch me my boots and her harness. This way I can keep her nice and calm, making it easier and quicker to get ready and out the door. Teaching your dog to go fetch their leash or harness is a nice way to give them some extra mental stimulation , and give them a nice simple job to do. Instead of having to get up and turn on the light have your dog do it for you. If you have a small dog you might have to improvise to make it possible for your dog to reach the light switch. Brush up on the basic impulse control commands like leave it, wait, stay, settle, and down. These commands are important if your dog ever gets loose or decides to chase after that squirrel. Instead of handing out a free meal have your dog perform a few tricks before they eat. I love making my own dog treats rather than buying them from the store. Tip: Be sure to check out our list of 25 simple dog treat recipes for some great options. Reward polite behaviors handsomely, with consistency your dog will get into the habit of asking for things in a polite manner. We all need time to unwind, and many of our dogs love to lounge around with us. Before bedtime each night I sit on the couch with Laika for a bit. Play some fun games with your dog or teach them something new. Dogs thrive on interactive play, and it has a big impact on their overall health and well being. We might not be able to provide them with the full time job they were bred for — but we can give them something meaningful to do with a few simple games and tricks. You call to a dog and a dog will break its neck to get to you. Dogs just want to please. Have you read about the recent studies that found a correlation between interactive play and a dogs well being? Does your dog know the name to all of his toys? Do you make your own doggie treats or toys? Does your dog get bored? 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Did You Know? How big do GSDs get? The German Shepherd is a large breed of dog. GSD males are ideally 24'' to 26'', weighing between 70 to 90 pounds, and females 22'' to 24'', weighing between 50 to 70 pounds. German Shepherd Coat? GSDs have an inner and an outer coat. Indeed, they shed heavily at times, but quick daily grooming with a coat "rake" helps greatly! GSDs make superior family pets. Great with adults, children, and infants alike. GSDs typically live 12 to 14 years. Guarding Skills GSDs are of the shepherding class of dogs and are thus inclined to protect the home and family. Many of my customers decide on a German Shepherd because of their renowned loyalty. They became familiar with the breed when they were growing up either with one in the home or through a neighbor or friend that had one. The fore legs are parallel and straight, while the rear legs are placed one more forward, and the other further back. This causes the head to be high, and the rump lower, looking at readiness and nobility. The stack pose is used in the show ring to exaggerate the dog's overall structure and is not the normal stance or position of the show line dogs. In short, it is an ordered examination of a dog's abilities in the disciplines of tracking, obedience, and protection, while Kkl is an abbreviated form of the German word "koerklasse. It is the final evaluation of many tests and trials to determine one simple thing about the dog.A dog with a Kkl rating of "passed" is deemed worthy to pass on its traits to the next generation. Call us to learn more about our puppies. NET I am no longer able to log in or send out from the epix. I apologize for any inconvenience. Thank you. With many years of experience in ethical, responsible breeding as members of the German Shepherd Dog Club of America - we adhere to the standards they provide. Our AKC registered dogs are deeply rooted in select German lines, and select American lines with a careful breeding plan we produce puppies, 4 to 6 annual litters, that excel as cherished family pets, working and show dogs. We are also expanding what we train or introduce our pups to, we have plans to bring in canine agility training and conformation. We remain active with our dogs and take great pride in ensuring that our pups are raised in a healthy, well socialized and loving environment. We talk below about some of the specialty areas that our pups have been and will continue to be successful in. You'll find our pups grow to be great protectors, wonderful pets, excellent in the fields of search and rescue, remarkable therapy dogs - it all begins with our puppy training. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. My story started here. My best friend, my constant companion, everywhere I went, she went with me. She protected me, helped teach me about life, and was my Best friend for 16 years. My inspiration. I'm Robin.I breed long coated German shepherds. My dogs are from European countries with outstanding lines. I breed for temperaments, beautiful red and black color, quality not quantity. I am a small hobby breeder, breeding with attention to detail. My dogs live with me in my home, not outside in kennels. They are a part of our family. Feel free to visit our Ranch in Pennsylvania to see for yourself. SG1 Baldrsens Tequila is beautiful, graceful,and with great confirmation in show lines. Tequila is very protective of her family. Excellent Mother! They say the eyes are the mirror to the soul. Our Bobbie is protective of her family, a joy to be around and one of the prettiest long coat Black German shepherds I ever had the pleasure to own and love. Eve has Good Hips and Elbows, Dm test score is "A" Eve has matured into a very stunning female, highly intelligent, and is high drive with a willingness to learn.

For this reason, we included these online Boxer breeders for you to check as well. Thus, you can also check a Boxer breeder here. The great thing is that it has an online marketplace to search for a Boxer puppy from any of the states. Since they cover all kinds of breeds, you may find an available puppy through this website. Another thing to note is that you also need to prepare for other costs. In short, aside from the actual cost of the puppy from a breeder, you still need to spend money on other items. Like a new baby in the family, your pup needs some items and some changes. A new puppy at home is a concern for all the family members. Thus, they need to prepare for it as well. As you have your meeting, try to make a schedule of tasks and distribution of responsibilities. Prepare your home. Preparing a home for your Boxer puppy means making it a safe place to play and live. Thus, you need to secure every item that can potentially harm your pet. Moreover, you need to secure your items that your pet can damage, such as shoes, carpets, floor mats, and so on. Shop for supplies. Like all other puppies and babies, Boxer pups needs items for its daily life. The essential things it needs would be beddings, food, and food bowls. You also need to buy a leash and collar for identification. Create a schedule. Besides your pet, you also have your responsibilities. Try to schedule how your pup should do for the day and when you need to pay attention. The great thing about creating a schedule is that it will benefit both you and your pet. Choosing a Good Boxer Seller and Breeder The best Boxer puppies only come from those who take an extra mile in caring for them. Below are certain qualities that you should look for in a Boxer puppy breeder. The Boxer breeder should only breed Boxer puppies. A single breed should be the first thing to remember when searching for a reputable Boxer breeder. Every breed has a mating season to which they breed. If the Boxer breeder sells quite a lot of pups but only has a pair of parents, you can think that it forces the parents to mate so they can have puppies to sell. The Boxer breeder should train pups in their first weeks. Every reputable Boxer breeder gives all the pups around eight weeks at least to stay with their parents. In such a time, the breeder should train the pups before it moves to its new home. The Boxer breeder would continuously be in touch. Other states. There is no set price for Texas Boxer puppies for sale because there are so many factors involved. Check out our spoiled beauties. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Boxers for Sale in Lubbock, TX. We raise Pedigreed Boxer Puppies and sell only to selected families. Parents on premises,Dew claws and tails docked. We recommend speaking directly with your breeder to get a better idea of their price range. If you are unable to find your Boxer puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Boxer Dogs for Adoption. Do not place any deposits without having purchase approval from the Owner. Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Texas Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Different breeders charge different prices for their Boxers, which can be influenced by factors including color, size, gender, and more. We analyzed the prices of 34 Boxer puppies that were listed for sale in Texas. While these dogs are definitely brave and smart, Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Houston, TX. It's also free to list your available puppies and litters on our site. Loves to play and is not an aggressive dog however, he is protective of his owner but had never bitten a soul and would never intentio more. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help. New Braunfels, Texas is best known for river tubing and for its awesome water park, Schlitterbahn. Use the search tool below to browse adoptable Boxer puppies and adult Boxer in Sweetwater, Texas. Also, be sure to check the Boxer Dog Breeder listings in our Dog. We take pride in providing our buyers with the best Boxer puppies to add to their family. We are here in Kempner, Texas and my love for boxers as family members began in .Of course, most trustworthy breeders will confirm that they take great care of their dogs and puppies, but this facility seems to take their business to another level. There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Boxer puppies in Sweetwater, Texas. Boxer puppies for sale in New Mexico from trusted …. Boxer puppies for sale in Houston TX. Boxer Pitbull Mix. Boxer puppies and dogs in Nacogdoches, Texas. We have been breeding Boxers for 31 years. Loretta was the 6th of 11 pups born to Dixie. The cost is determined by the quality of the bloodline, the coat color, and the ancestry. Serving the Entire State of Texas. She loves to be cuddled and gives kisses to everyone! Ready now for a loving family. Boxers for Sale in Dallas. Chaparral Boxer Littles is a small operation…. Boxers for Sale in Houston. The Chaparral Ranch only occasionally breeds out quality boxers. Find Boxer dogs and puppies from Texas breeders. Boxer puppies usually go fast because this is such a popular breed of dog, so make sure you act quickly once you find one that interests you. AmericanListed features safe and local classifieds for everything you need! The Circle H Boxer Ranch. Dallas Boxers for sale are a medium to large sized dog breed and range from about inches tall and can weigh in anywhere from pounds depending on the sex. Boxer puppies for sale in Houston, TX from trusted breeders. Boxer Dogs for Sale in Texas. Dallas Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Dallas, TX Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. The typical price range for the Boxer puppy in. The American Boxer Club was established in .Find Boxer puppies for sale Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Boxer puppies for sale in Dallas, TX from trusted …. Available puppies Certified breeders puppies who can be transported to you These puppies come from breeders who offer safe, convenient puppy drop-off options — so you can get your new best friend delivered from anywhere. This is everything but the usual kennel, according to its owners. Boxer puppies for sale from trusted breeders. Boxer puppies and dogs in Sweetwater, Texas. We do not offer nor guarantee our puppies for show or breeding. Boxer Puppies for Sale in Texas. Boxer puppies for sale Fort Worth, Texas. Browse these Boxer rescues and shelters below. We are not a puppy mill nor are there kennels in the back yard. Our family consists of our sons Andrew and Alex. Once your tiny little puppy grows into adulthood, they are a good size for apartment or house living as long as they get out for plenty of exercise! The Boxer dog breed slowly gained popularity throughout Europe in the late s. Boxer puppies for sale in Houston, TX from trusted …. The price of Boxer puppies in Texas might vary because of where you live and the. How much are Boxer puppies for sale in Texas? There is no set price for Texas Boxer puppies for sale because there are so many factors. Boxer Puppies For Sale in Texas. Indicate on the request if you want to be placed on our waiting list. Our kennel is located in New Braunfels, Texas. She is a mahogany fawn with a lightening blaze up her nose. Dallas Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Dallas, TX Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to. We take our responsibilities very seriously and strive to ensure the health, safety and well-being of all our animals. Our boxers are very high quality boxers bred to be great family pets and companions. He was then imported to the United States in and was accepted by the American Kennel Club the following year. Boxer Puppies!!! Select from the highest-rated breeders in the state. Boxer Breeders in Texas with Puppies for Sale. Penny's Boxer Puppies. It is about 45 minutes from Austin and 30 minutes from San Antonio. Boxer puppy for sale in Texas. Boxer puppies for sale in Texas from trusted breeders. We breed for health, temperament, intelligence, agility, conformation, color and well socialized pups. We are located in beautiful Central Texas, with the Fort Hood army base as our backdrop. Boxer Location Age Any Boxer puppies and dogs in nearby cities. Top Texas Boxer Breeders. Find your Boxer puppy for sale in Texas. He is an adult but has the heart of a puppy. Boxer puppies for sale in Dallas, TX from trusted breeders. Although each puppy has his or her. Indicate on the request if you want to be placed on our waiting. Search for a Boxer puppy or dog. Vet checked, dewormed , ready with first. Here are a few organizations closest to you: Shelter .Look no further than Turco! Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Precious attitude From a litter of .Find Boxer breeders in Texas near you with puppies for sale. To see more adoptable Boxers in Nacogdoches, Texas, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria! Austin Boxer Boxer rescue has formed a partnership with Canidae Pet Food to encourage good nutrition for dogs adopted from ABR, offer our supporters discounts on dog food purchases, and generate needed funds for Austin Boxer Rescue's work across Texas. These Boxers are available for adoption close to Center, Texas. Browse search results for boxer puppies for sale in Houston, TX. Learn more www. Love the staff always so sweet. We adopted our Penny from here three years ago and they were just as great today as they were then. Theirs is not an easy job and can often be emotionally draining. They took good care of my little guy before I was able to rescue him. We brought our girl Marilyn a vizsla home from here. She is a great dog. Kyle Hauk Lizzy Oquinn The humane society does everything they can to take care of homeless animals, some come in already sick and the humane society does everything they can to save these babies. They are great people there and I highly recommend this place Chrissy Taylor Selena Buster Very clean shelter and everyone was super nice. They seemed like they care about the animals. Selena Buster Volunteered at the animal shelter. Visited the cats. Played with a puppy. Everyone there is great. We will come back. Juan Gutierrez Willie Blackmon These people are a great help to the community. .It tore me up when our dog died after 18 years but in only 30 minutes I believe we have found a perfect new pet. David Rogers. Jet is a fabulous Corso Mastiff that loves all humans. Cane Corso experience is preferred. A brisk walk or better yet, run of at least a mile in the morning and again in the evening will sustain their health and muscle tone. They make great companions on long walks, hikes, or bicycle rides. Jet's breed was bred to work and is happiest when given a job to do. He knows sit and walks well on a leash fairly well but need a an owner committed to committed training. A wooden privacy fence is a must. Due to his size, he will need a home with older children as he is a big guy at almost lbs. He has a sweet nature but thinks cats and horses are a little too interesting. Apply for Jet at ww. The mom and dad are unknown but we believe Joey will be a medium breed adult. At 6 months of age, he currently weighs in at 40 lbs. He has normal puppy energy but also relaxes easily. Toys and water re his favorite. Joey is great with all dogs and all people. Joey carries a serious expression but is a happy playful, fun loving active pup. He will do best with fenced yard to expend his puppy wiggles. He, like all young ones, will need continual training with housebreaking and house manners. He has been neutered , microchipped, is up-to-date on vaccines and is on heartworm and flea preventatives. To apply for Joey, please go to www. Could yours be the one? Justin and his 4 siblings were found as strays in Wood County. The mom and dad are unknown but we believe Justin will be a large breed adult. At 7 months of age, he currently weighs in at 40 lbs. Justin has medium more energy needs and loves to play. He is a more dominant personality than his siblings Joey and Journey and would be best in a home with a confident dog in the family. Justin loves to cuddle and loves all people. To apply for Justin, please go to www.

Puppies of all ages like getting filthy. However, bathing your puppy while it is too young is not a good idea. Only pups above the age of 12 weeks should be bathed. Until they are mature enough, you may have to settle with a sponge wash to clean your puppy. The less water your dog consumes before the age of 12 weeks, the better. Simply use a wet towel to spot clean your pet. Dry your puppy as soon as possible. Puppies acquire cold quickly because their body clocks and inner natural temperature regulating systems in the body are not fully formed. This is especially true for french bulldog puppies, who have just one coat, a topcoat, as opposed to most other dog breeds, which have two coats, a topcoat, and an undercoat, to keep them warm. As a result, two factors must be considered while determining a washing regimen for your French bulldog puppy. The frequency of bathing, first, and a thorough post-bath drying down, second. Dry shampoo is an excellent method to keep puppy cleanliness in between baths. A dry shampoo is an excellent tool, but it is critical to select the proper one. It is not the greatest technique to keep the dog clean; a fast wash is preferable to dry shampoo. Some individuals, however, like it since it is more convenient. For example, if your French bulldog puppy becomes muddy after playing outside, he needs a wash, even if it is an unplanned one. Your veterinarian is a wonderful resource for guidance on bathing frequency. It is highly efficient and easily removes dirt and oil. It is recommended to stick to dog products developed specifically for dogs, such as… Dog shampoos Dog soaps Dog moisturizers You may give your puppy a wash once he or she is above the age of 12 weeks. Depending on the size of your puppy, a sink or large bowl may be the most convenient method to bathe him. Bathtubs are ideal for bigger dogs. Brush your pet well before beginning the bath. This will get rid of any extra dirt and hair. Brushing aids in the removal of shedding hair from the dog. This will also help to avoid knots or matted hair after quite a bath. Prepare the water! Ensure the water is at a mild temperature. Make sure the dog is comfortable throughout the bath. During wash time, the dogs may slip and injure themselves. The shampoo will come next. Your dog should only be bathed using puppy shampoo. These shampoos and conditioners have been created just for your dog. Shampoo and detergent soap designed for humans may be too harsh for your dog. When washing your puppy, be careful not to get soap in their ears, mouth, or nose. Rinse your dog off with warm water. The rinsing procedure will be aided if you have access to a handheld sprayer or hose. Remove your dog from the bath once it has been thoroughly washed. To dry your dog, use a soft towel. It is not difficult to bathe your dog. Ascertain that the bath is a relaxing and enjoyable experience. They may not enjoy bathing, but the easier you make it for them, the less they will mind. Perhaps they will even love a bath! Gums must be pink and healthy. As the french bulldog puppy develops into maturity, this will make brushing and cleaning teeth and administering medicine much easier. If you try to do this with a french bulldog that is not used to it, they may snap at you or even bite you if they are not used to it. COAT The coat of a french bulldog puppy should be glossy and smooth to the touch. While grooming, keep an eye out for parasites, wounds, abnormal swellings, and patchiness. Brushing is also an excellent technique to minimize shedding. NAILS Daily nail clipping is necessary for the health of your French bulldog, as well as the protection of your furniture and your own body from scratches. You may either do it yourself at home with the right pet nail trimming tools or hire a grooming expert to come to your home and do it for you. If you walk your dog a lot, the nails will often be short due to walking on a rough surface. The breed does not have an excessive amount of oils in their coat , which means they do not need grooming as often as other breeds. Pin 0 Shares We live near a forest, and it gets very muddy! That means that we have to give our Frenchie a bath or shower a couple of times a month after we get back from a long walk. In this guide we will show you how to bathe a French Bulldog, but using the shower for cleaning, rather than an actual bath with water filled into it. You can also watch the showering process in our French Bulldog bath video shown further down the page. How to bathe a French bulldog video Watch the video first which shows you how to shower and wash a French Bulldog puppy in your bath, then see some photos and additional tips further down the page. How to wash a French Bulldog in a bath and shower Before I show you how we do it, take a look at the photo below. This is Claude out in the forest where he loves to go and play. He is a typical Frenchie and loves rolling around in mud. He thinks getting filthy is hilarious. We will get him home and he will then make a huge mess of our house. As you can see, he will definitely need a bath after this! After a day in the forest, Claude the Frenchie needs a very good bath and shower! Place your French Bulldog in the bath This was the part that we initially struggled with when he was a younger puppy. After a few baths, your Frenchie should get used to it and not be too scared. He would try to leap out of the bath as soon as the shower was turned on, which made a lot of mess. By about the third time our Frenchie puppy was bathed and showered, he trusted us and no longer panicked. Place your puppy or Frenchie in the bath gently and take things really slowly at first until they are used to it. Rinse him down with warm water Before we even get the special doggy shampoo out, we will give him a quick rinse down. We will rinse our Frenchie down with warm water to get the majority of dirt off him. Most of the time Claude has caked on dry mud which we will have to loosen up with the warm water and shower head. We get rid of the bulk of the dirt before the shampooing. Use a special dog calming shampoo Since day one, we bathed our French Bulldog puppy with a special calming shampoo. This is the best shampoo for a French Bulldog that we have managed to find in the UK. Most of these dog calming shampoos are very similar, and I recently found a dog shampoo on Amazon that appears to have good reviews. Rinse out the shampoo and repeat Claude is usually so dirty that we need to give him one or two more applications of doggy shampoo. We find that his underbelly and under his neck is where most of the dirt is due to the way in which he gets into mud, so give that an extra rub through and rinse with the shampoo and warm water. Our Frenchie hates getting water in his face, and if we do accidentally get the water and shampoo in his eye this did happen once! Dry your Frenchie off after his bath with the second towel you have. Remember I said earlier we had two towels? You can now use the second to wrap him and town him down, getting him as dry as your possibly can. Handy Hint: You are probably going to need to use the other towel to protect you, as once he gets out of the bath he will give himself a really good shake, and the water goes everywhere! Dry your Frenchie with a hair dryer optional The strange thing about showering a French Bulldog is that they seem to smell worse once they have been bathed. Use a dry clean spray shampoo optional To really get him smelling better, try using a dry clean shampoo spray. You can see a photo of the one we use, and there are similar products available. You can see the latest prices for the dry shampoo on Amazon. This spray can be used after your bathe your French Bulldog or be taken on trips for a quick non-shower clean up. You simply give them a few sprays with it over their body. In our experience, it gets rid of the wet dog smell. Handy Hint: Despite your best efforts, he might still have slightly wet paws. This leaves a mess around the house, so for 20 minutes we will often put his blanket in his old puppy training crate, and put him in there until his paws are completely dry. Do French Bulldogs like baths? If you have a Frenchie who is scared of the bath, the best thing to do is take it very slowly with baby steps and keep calm. How often should you bath French Bulldogs? Bathing your Frenchie more than 5 times a year can mean that the oils in their skin can dry out. For smaller clean-up operations we will use unscented wet wipes and a combination of the dry clean shampoo I spoke about earlier. Conclusion If you own this breed then will need to know how to give a French Bulldog a bath or shower at some point. Frenchies are notorious for rolling around in mud, poo, and even dead animal carcasses — we once stopped Claude rolling around on a dead rat… disgusting! If you shower your French Bulldog daily or even more than a few times a week, you can dry out the essential natural oils they have in the skin. However, like us, you might have to give yours a shower more often that you might think! If you do, I hope our little French Bulldog bath video and guide to showering a Frenchie has given you some help. My dogs are groomed and checked for ticks and fleas every day. I have always been a firm believer in regular brushing and bathing - every couple weeks for the dogs, and about once a month for my cats. If not, click on the highlighted link to order. Here are some photos, enjoy. My line of pet shampoos and conditioners on Amazon is completely natural, hypoallergenic and gentle enough for regular bathing. The formulas are also paraben and sulfate free. My collection includes an all-purpose formula, an itch relief formula, a special moisturizing formula and a two-in-one tearless shampoo and conditioner formula for puppies. Bath time for my small dogs and cats takes place in the big laundry room in my Winter House basement. I have two large, deep enameled sinks there, which are good for soaping and rinsing. He also adds a small amount of shampoo to the water, so it is diluted before the dog is placed into the sink. Creme Brulee is first. These Frenchies are just the right size for these large sinks. My Chow Chows are much bigger, especially Han — they get bathed in the tub. My dogs are very accustomed to being bathed. Apply the shampoo from the back of the neck to the tail and always be very careful around the face, ears, and eyes. Once she feels the lukewarm water, Creme Brulee starts to relax. Enma uses a massage brush to lather up the shampoo. My shampoo formulas are all pH balanced for dogs and great for pets with sensitive skin. She also makes sure to clean her mouth and flews, or lips. These areas can often trap dirt or food. After applying the shampoo, rubbing it in, and letting it soak into the coat a few minutes, rinse well with clean, lukewarm water. The important thing is to get any traces of soap out of the coat. And then Carlos dries Creme Brulee very, very well. Here she is all wrapped up in a large terry towel. Once Creme Brulee is on the grooming table, which is also located in the basement across the room from the sinks, Creme Brulee gets brushed with a soft bristle brush. Carlos blow dries her short coat while Enma wipes her ears. Enma also carefully wipes her face, and the creases on either side of her nose. Next is Bete Noire. Always use shampoos specifically designed for pets. Shampoos formulated for humans are much more acidic than those for dogs. The pH of dog skin is very different from that of human skin. While human skin has a pH of around 5. Carlos pours about a quarter-sized amount into his hand and then into the warm water. Bete Noire is soaped from neck to tail and under the body. Bath time is also a good time to check for any abnormalities in the skin. After shampooing, Enma gives her a thorough rinse all over the top of her body. Carlos then rinses her back side and underbelly. Despite this expression, Bete Noire is not frightened or upset at all. The French Bulldog is known to be comical, entertaining, and dependably amiable. My Frenchies make everyone laugh here at the farm. The two Frenchies are now clean and comfy. Who wants to go first? They would rather skip that time and enjoy playing. If you get them started early you will make things SO much easier down the road in getting them used to baths. I wash my Frenchie about once every two weeks. Another thing to consider when deciding how often to bathe your Frenchie is his lifestyle. How to Introduce a French Bulldog to Bathing? Introducing a dog with batching should be performed from an early age. To make a Frenchie have a positive association with this routine, I recommend you allowing him to play with water first. During summertime, you can sprinkle your Frenchie puppy, and allow him to play in a baby pool. Another step presents telling your dog praise words and giving him treats. You should practice the routine of bathing gradually and increase the time spent in the water until you succeed to do the bathing. The mat will help a French bulldog to feel more secure. It fits perfectly to block any water and you can use them at the end to wipe up any dirt that might be in their ears. Avoid the face. You can wash their face with a damp towel and really get into the creases and corners. Lather, Shampoo and Rinse Before just picking any shampoo, make sure you are checking the ingredients. Starting at the neck, gently massage your fingertips into their fur going all the way to their bottom. Rinse and make sure all soap is off. So you can take a towel and gently dry off your pooch and carefully place them out of the bath. Extra Spa Treatment Add a special little touch at the end with a dot of nose butter or coconut oil on their nose and even paw butter. My French Bulldogs nose dries out easily so nose butters are a lifesaver. Brushing Frequent brushing is required as French bulldogs have a fine, short, and silky coat of hair. Brushing the hair will allow its natural oil on the hair and skin to get evenly distributed and maintain its natural shine. French bulldogs do not need regular baths as this can cause a loss of their natural oil. Many believe that the required number of baths a French bulldog requires is about 5 to 6 times a year. All Frenchies are different, and their hygiene status can differ from one pet owner to the other. Frenchies, which spent most of their time outdoor, will need more grooming than those who stay indoors most times. Considering everything, you should bathe a Frenchie once or twice a month. Bathing it more than twice can result in the Frenchie losing its natural oil on its skin and hair. Search for:. How often should I bathe my French Bulldog puppy and what are their grooming needs? French Bulldogs sport a short and smooth coat that should be relatively fine to the touch. You do not want to over wash your Frenchie and dry out natural skin oils. We bathe our Frenchies on an as needed basis which is generally once a month , but we regularly spot clean them with wet washcloths or wet wipes unscented and for sensitive skin. Their behinds occasional need to be wiped clean as well, as does any other breed. The bottom line is that they should be washed as needed, and if your acceptance level of what is appropriate cleanliness is different than ours, it should not be a problem. There is quite a range of latitude in bathing frequency. There are many good dog shampoos on the market and it is really just a matter of personal preference. They can be purchased at any pet store, Walmart, etc. Years ago, when we owned a Yorkie, our vet recommended using baby shampoo because Yorkies tend to frequently get goop around the eyes; and, the baby shampoo allowed us to clean the area around their eyes without irritating them. We still use baby shampoo with our Frenchies since they have lots of folds on their faces that require regular cleaning. If you decide to go with a dog shampoo, choose a mild formulated shampoo for sensitive skin; your vet may have some good recommendations. French Bulldogs are short-haired and have a single coat; so, fortunately, they do not shed as much as most breeds. Brushing their coat regularly with a rubber brush will remove any dead or loose hair — which in turn, will reduce the amount of shedding. The are prone to becoming damp and this is where infection can result. They also can collect dirt and food causing infections also. Utah has a very dry climate, so for us it is sufficient to regularly clean their folds with baby shampoo and then thoroughly dry them with a dry cloth. The frequency of maintenance varies from Frenchie to Frenchie, as well as climatic conditions. Frenchies with large, ropey wrinkling in a hot, humid environment would require the most attention; whereas, a lightly wrinkled Frenchie in a cool, dry environment would require the least. It is recommended that you clean the wrinkles out at least once a week initially and then vary your schedule based on the requirements of each Frenchie. Tear stains appear more prevalent on the lighter color Frenchies. There are many products on the market which claim to remove and or prevent tear stain removal, but the most commonly referred to method is the use of Desitin yes, the same ointment used for the treatment of baby rash. The ointment is spread along the length of the stain and after two or three weeks of application the stains should have disappeared. Care must be taken in both cases to assure that neither gets into the dogs eyes. The nose can be susceptible to drying out. The best way to remedy this is to regularly apply a smear of petroleum jelly Vaseline to the nose. This keeps the nose dark and moist. Our vet also recommended vitamin E just squeeze a little of the capsule , which we have found to work very well. Some people do not feel comfortable clipping their dogs nails and will take them to a groomer or vet. However, if you want to save time and money, it is a fairly simple task that takes only a few minutes. There are two types of of clippers: a guillotine or a scissor type. The guillotine is the easiest to use. The instructions that come with the clippers will guide you on how to use the instrument. Light claws are easier to cut than dark claws as the blood vessels and nerves that supply the toenail, called the quick, is easier to see. Cut the toenail to within approximately 2 mm of the quick. If you cut into the quick, the toenail will bleed and the dog will experience pain — nothing serious, but they might not sit too still the next time you undertake this task. When cutting dark toenails, it is better to cut just a little off at a time. Some Frenchie owners, who have dogs with dark toenails, cut them once every week or two so that they only have to cut off a little at a time, avoiding any fear of cutting into the quick. If you do accidentally cut into the quick, no harm done. Bleeding generally stops within a few minutes it helps to apply pressure with a paper towel. Have More Questions?

Minnie, who gets frightened very easily, was given a mini-me version of her by her owner as an early gift on December .She gave her golden retriever an adorable eight-week old puppy called Parker as a friend and to help as a confidence boost. Nicolette told MailOnline : "She has really bad fears and anxiety so we figured getting a new friend will help her come out of her shell. A golden retriever with anxiety received a new friend for Christmas Image: Little Minnie gets very anxious and frightened easily Image: Cougar 'spotted prowling through English countryside' by two walkers "It was kinda like love at first sight - Minnie has always loved other dogs and having friends now she has someone to grow up with and to help her be brave! Minni suffers from anxiety and gets scared easily which inspired her owner to get her a puppy. The eight-week-old pup and Minni hit it off instantly and owner Nicolette Hall believes that they will be good friends. Pooch Minnie, one, was given Parker, eight weeks Image: The dog groomer was over the moon to see her two dogs getting on perfectly Image:. Especially if they have been a good boy all year, like this golden retriever! This Christmas, Cash, a year-old retriever is in for a very special surprise, one that everyone probably had on their Christmas list! Cash has been such a good boy and his owner Marie has just the surprise for him. And he has no idea what it could be. Cash hear someone pull up in the driveway, so he is waiting anxiously at the door. He wags his tail and sniffs the door. He really wants to see who is about to come in the house. What is taking them so long? He intently stares at the door and hops with excitement as he hears the person coming closer and closer. The box was just for him! Cash can smell that something is definitely up. He wanted to see what they got him for Christmas! He did not know what it was, but he was excited already. His family knew that he would love his present. The box was placed on the floor and Cash was immediately elated! He got a puppy for Christmas! Cash ran around and kept sniffing his new friend. It was so precious. Rosie was Cash's best buddy, so he was feeling a little lonely over the years. His family figured that a new companion would be just the thing Cash needed. And it sure was. What a lucky dog!

Tom Thorpe Blog Does your golden retriever puppy have diarrhea at night? There might be several factors that are causing your puppy to experience such diarrhea. This article will provide some of the most common causes of diarrhea that you need to know. What is diarrhea in golden retrievers? Let us first talk about what diarrhea is just to get a glimpse of an idea of what it really is just to avoid any misconceptions. Diarrhea can be an unsettling experience for humans and this is the same case for every dog out there. When a dog is experiencing diarrhea, its stool is usually loose or unformed, sometimes it comes in large amounts and sometimes small. Although diarrhea is not a disease per se, it can be linked to or a sign of various types of diseases. In addition, this simple illness can become serious to life-threatening. Although you might not be able to prevent diarrhea. So, this cannot be taken lightly instead, do something about it if your golden retriever is experiencing diarrhea. What causes diarrhea? When your golden retriever is experiencing diarrhea, his fecal material is underdeveloped and it moves fast through the intestine with the lack of absorption of electrolytes, nutrients, and water. For golden retriever puppies, one of the most common cases is parasites. This is because puppies are vulnerable to sickness and disease. Diarrhea can lead to underlying serious health conditions one of these is viral infections, inflammatory intestinal disease, allergies, organ dysfunction, to name a few. Your puppy will probably have a stomach upset or it will not digest the new kibble food properly. You slowly mix the old kibble food and new kibble food. This process can be done within a week. For example, on day 1 mix 80 percent of old and 20 percent new. Then the next day 70 percent old kibble food and 30 percent new kibble food. And so on until your puppy gets accustomed to the new dog food. But every pet owner has stated that transitioning their puppy to a new food has never been easy. This is needed more nutritional value, due to expensive brand and can no longer afford to buy it. Thus switching to cheaper ones. Sometimes due to the low nutritional value of the kibble food. Whatever the case in changing the dietary needs, your puppy will likely experience some digestive issues. This is when introduced to new kibble food and also while in the transitioning period. Although this is perfectly normal because your golden retriever puppy is adjusting to it. It may be due to emotional distress, stress, or anxiety Just like humans, dogs are emotional creatures. Their outlet for releasing stress in their body comes in many ways and one of it through the digestive system. Among the reasons as to why your puppy is feeling emotionally distressed is due to feeling lonely or neglected. To prevent any emotional distress or having bowel irregularities, make sure that you give plenty of love to your golden retriever puppy. Always pay attention to them because they needed to be supervised all the time. Medication or Antibiotics Nighttime diarrhea is sometimes caused by the side effects of antibiotics or medication which is fairly common. Your golden retriever may produce loose stool upon treatment of antibiotics. This is because the medication is fighting the infection and bacteria. Meanwhile, antibiotics can also kill good bacteria as much as they kill bad bacteria this is because they cannot tell the difference between the two. Thereby this results in an imbalance in the stomach which leads to abdominal pain, stomach issues, and eventually diarrhea during nighttime. The best thing you can do is to consult with your vet first and follow their specific instructions when giving your golden retriever puppy medication. In addition, medication should be given along with food to at least reduce the negative effect on digestion. Allergies and Food Intolerance Every dog has food intolerance and allergies at some point in its life but not all may experience this. The common reason why your golden retriever puppy has diarrhea at night might be due to their hypersensitive stomach. Most often, food rich in dairy, fat, or gluten is the cause. Therefore, it can lead to diarrhea or gas at night. There are breeds that have particular intolerance because of their genes. Like Schnauzers, they have food intolerance with high fat content. Furthermore, researching the best possible diet with come consultation from your vet is the best key to alleviate any food intolerance and allergies. Disease or illness Another reason why your puppy is having diarrhea at night is he might have an illness or a disease. These might be chronic or mild cases. One factor that must be considered is that diarrhea is just a secondary symptom that can be linked to severe health conditions. Furthermore, those several health conditions include liver or kidney disease, and that diarrhea is just a precursor to an underlying serious illness. Some of these causes are due to trauma, parasites, toxic ingestion, congenital disorders, and even bacterial infections. This can be fatal. It can be tumors or cancer in the intestinal tract. Ingested foreign object Sometimes the reason why your golden retriever puppy is having diarrhea at night is fairly simple. All puppies are curious gentle little creatures who want to explore within their own little world. They will try everything that they can out into their mouths. Puppies commonly ingest garbage materials, house plants, insects, toys, and even fabrics. Make sure to supervise your puppy at all times. That way, your puppy can enjoy exploring within the limited boundary. This is for further analysis. The common infection is an intestinal infection. There will be instances where relief or medication will not be enough. Never allow your puppy outside without close supervision You know what golden retriever puppies are. They are known for their high energy and active in exploring the outside in their own little world. But, take heed, if they are outside, always supervised them or have one family member supervise your puppy. You never know what your puppy will. Puppies often will eat anything they can put into their mouth whether trash, plants, shoes, or piece of fabric. Final Thoughts The only bottom line, if you have encountered your golden retriever puppy diarrhea at night, never take it lightly and wait for a day to treat them. Instead, act quickly as possible. Attend to their needs such as giving them basic relief or treatment just to ease the bowel irregularities. Because as we have learned, diarrhea can be devious. They can be mild infection to a severe condition such as cancer or a tumor in the intestine. Check the petmd for more infos about pet ailments. Fever Vomiting These symptoms might not always mean diarrhea, so taking your pup to the vet is crucial if you notice anything unusual. Take note of these details as well as anything else that stands out. This information will assist them in making an accurate diagnosis and developing a treatment plan to make their furry friend feel better as soon as possible. How To Treat Diarrhea In Golden Retrievers Remember, while occasional diarrhea might not be a cause for alarm, chronic or severe symptoms should always be taken seriously. Check for any signs of blood or mucus. Observe if your dog shows other symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, or loss of appetite. Dietary Adjustments: Offer a bland diet: boiled chicken without skin or bones and plain white rice can be beneficial. Gradually reintroduce their regular food after days, mixing it with the bland diet and increasing the regular food portion over a few days. Maintain Hydration: Diarrhea can lead to dehydration. Make sure your dog has access to fresh water at all times. You can also provide an electrolyte solution designed for dogs to help replenish lost fluids. Avoid Giving Human Medications: Many human drugs, like certain anti-diarrheals, can be toxic to dogs. Always consult a vet before administering any medication. Check for Parasites: Worm infestations can cause diarrhea. Regular deworming is essential, but if diarrhea persists, have a fecal exam done. Consult Your Veterinarian: If the diarrhea continues for more than 24 hours, if your dog seems lethargic, or if there are other worrying symptoms, reach out to your vet. A microscopic fecal evaluation, x-rays, blood tests, DNA tests, biopsies of the intestinal tract, endoscopy, ultrasound, or even exploratory abdominal surgery may be performed They can provide appropriate medications, suggest further dietary adjustments, or conduct tests to determine the cause. Prevention: Ensure a balanced diet and avoid sudden changes in food. Regularly check for and treat parasites. Keep your dog away from garbage, spoiled food, and other potential stomach irritants. If one food affects your furry companion less than the other, you could try a diet with only one protein source. Sudden Dietary Changes: Like humans, our furry friends can get stomach upsets and diarrhea when their diet changes abruptly. Infections: Diarrhea in dogs can be a sign of viral, parasitic, fungal, or bacterial infections. The most common cause is a parasitic infection from roundworms, coccidia or giardia which can be treated easily with medication. Viral infections include parvovirus, coronavirus, and distemper which are much less common if the puppy is vaccinated. Most conditions will necessitate veterinary treatment, so if your dog has diarrhea and other painful symptoms, consult your veterinarian. Stress: Dogs, like humans, can experience stress, resulting in diarrhea. So, if you notice your pet has an upset stomach and suspect it is due to stress, try to figure out what is causing their stress and work to reduce or eliminate it. Finally, remember to lavish your pup with love and attention to help your furry friend feel safe and secure. Undiagnosed Medical Condition: Tummy problems in dogs can occur due to an undiagnosed medical condition. These conditions include inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, and even cancer. If you suspect your pet has an undiagnosed medical condition causing their diarrhea, immediately take them to the vet. Remember, the sooner you get a diagnosis, the better the outcome and the happier your pet will be! Here are some options: Boiled Chicken and Rice: Cook boneless, skinless chicken and plain white rice. The chicken should be well-cooked and shredded, while the rice should be thoroughly cooked and soft. This combination is gentle on the stomach and helps firm up stools. Plain Pumpkin: Canned or cooked plain pumpkin not pumpkin pie filling can be beneficial for soothing an upset stomach and firming up loose stools. Start with a small amount and gradually increase as tolerated. Plain Yogurt: Choose plain, unsweetened yogurt with live and active cultures. It can help restore the balance of good bacteria in the digestive system. Boiled Potatoes: Boiled and mashed potatoes without any added seasoning or butter can be easily digested and provide energy. Remember to offer small, frequent meals to avoid overwhelming the digestive system. If the diarrhea persists or worsens, consult your veterinarian for a thorough evaluation and further guidance. These are some examples: Vomiting: If your dog is vomiting in addition to diarrhea, this could be a sign of a larger problem that necessitates a trip to the vet. Lethargy: If your dog is weak and tired, especially when combined with diarrhea, something is wrong, and a vet visit is required. This could be due to parasites, ulcers, or masses that require treatment from a veterinarian. Black tarry diarrhea: If your dog has black tarry diarrhea, it could be an upper GI bleed that requires medication from your veterinarian. Consult your veterinarian if you notice anything unusual with your Golden Retriever. Potential Complications Of Untreated Diarrhea In Golden Retriever Puppies If your golden retriever puppy has untreated diarrhea, you should take them to the vet immediately because there could be complications. These are some examples: Dehydration Diarrheic puppies can quickly become dehydrated, leading to serious health issues. Dehydration symptoms include dry gums, sunken eyes, lethargy, and a loss of skin elasticity. Therefore, even if your puppy has diarrhea, it must continue to receive proper nutrition and hydration. One method is to prevent diarrhea from occurring in the first place. This includes their crate, bed, toys, food and water bowls, etc. Good hygiene practices can help to keep harmful bacteria and viruses that cause diarrhea at bay. Sudden changes can cause stomach upset and diarrhea. Regular Deworming Deworming your puppy regularly can help prevent parasitic infections that cause diarrhea. Consult your veterinarian about the best deworming schedule for your puppy. Maintain a consistent feeding schedule and avoid giving too many treats. Following these guidelines can help your Golden Retriever puppy avoid diarrhea and keep them healthy and happy. Diarrhea in dogs can last anywhere from a single day to several weeks or even months. Can diarrhea in Golden Retriever puppies lead to more severe health problems? If untreated, diarrhea in Golden Retriever puppies can lead to more severe health problems. In addition, dehydration, malnutrition, and other complications can result from prolonged or severe diarrhea. While some common home remedies may help treat mild cases of diarrhea in Golden Retriever puppies , it is critical to consult a veterinarian before attempting any treatments. A diet of boiled chicken and rice and probiotics are some remedies that may be suggested. More severe cases of diarrhea, on the other hand, may necessitate medical intervention, and it is best to seek the advice of a professional. Is diarrhea a sign of parvovirus? Diarrhea, especially if bloody, can be a symptom of parvovirus. Is it normal for puppies to have soft stools? Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Lethargy Poor appetite Gums that are pale or tacky to the touch, which can indicate dehydration, anemia or shock Watery poop that lasts for more than a day Deciding Whether To Go to the Veterinarian A puppy with diarrhea almost always warrants a call to your veterinarian. At the very least, this will get you individualized guidance on what home therapies you can try and what doses to give your pup. Puppies metabolize many medications differently than mature dogs, so dosage adjustments may be necessary. When a puppy has loose stool, talking to a veterinarian can also help you determine whether a trip to the hospital is needed. Treatments that are often needed in more severe cases of acute diarrhea include: Fluid therapy to treat dehydration— given under the skin or intravenously Medications to slow down the bowels and reduce diarrhea and fluid loss Medications to manage vomiting Antibiotics to treat or prevent a bacterial infection arising from within the gut Hospitalization and close monitoring for extremely sick puppies Your veterinarian can also run tests to determine why your pup has diarrhea—a fecal examination for parasites or a test for parvovirus, for example. Scoop up some diarrhea and seal it tightly in a plastic bag or container. If you see a parasite or incriminating evidence like a chewed piece of plastic, make sure you bring that too. Puppies, especially those really young and really small, can dehydrate quickly. Make sure your puppy has access to fresh water at all times. Bring it to them if necessary. Entice a reluctant drinker by adding some low-sodium bouillon to the water or a few drops of liquid from some tuna canned in water. Pediatric hydration fluids for human babies work well, too, if your pup will drink them. Stick to bland food. This might be boiled, unseasoned hamburger or white meat chicken with some rice or a prescription diet for intestinal problems that you can get from your veterinarian. Check with your veterinarian to see if you can give any supplements or over-the-counter medications like canned pumpkin, kaolin-pectin or probiotics. A: The reasons why your puppy has diarrhea could include a change in diet, eating something unusual, exposure to toxins, viral or bacterial infections, food allergies or intolerances, intestinal parasites, stress, and other potentially serious health problems. Q: What to give dogs for diarrhea? A: Pet parents have to be careful in what they give for dog diarrhea—some over-the-counter treatments are dangerous if used incorrectly or in the wrong situations. If the diarrhea is mild and not associated with a serious health problem, it may respond to a bland diet boiled white meat chicken and rice, for example and extra water intake. Your veterinarian can let you know whether it is safe to give your puppy canned pumpkin, kaolin-pectin, probiotics and other supplements or medications. Q: How long does puppy diarrhea last? A: Puppy diarrhea can last for just a few hours, or it may persist for days or even longer. Always talk to your veterinarian if puppy diarrhea lasts for more than a day or two or if it is associated with vomiting, lethargy, weakness or any other symptoms of disease. Q: Does puppy teething cause diarrhea? A: Many pet parents report that puppy teething seems to be associated with diarrhea. However, diarrhea during this time can still be serious enough to require veterinary care. Teething puppies will often chew on and swallow almost anything they can get their mouths on. Also, the immune systems of young puppies who are teething are not yet fully formed, so they are at higher risk for the bacterial and viral infections that can cause diarrhea. Q: Is blood in my puppy's diarrhea an emergency? Call your veterinarian immediately for advice. Q: Why does my puppy have diarrhea after changing food? Whenever possible, make dietary changes over the course of a week or two. If you suspect your pet is sick, please call your vet immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your regular veterinarian when possible as they can make the best recommendations for your pet. If you need help finding a vet near you, use this link. Please remember this information does not replace proper vet care. You may not be able to totally prevent diarrhea, but knowing as much as possible about it might help limit the number times your dog has one of these unpleasant episodes and reduce the duration when the runs do come. The Canine Digestive System There are significant differences between the way dogs and people digest food. Human jaw shape and salivary enzymes, for example, will start breaking down a morsel in the mouth. Dogs, on the other hand, have mouths and jaws made for tearing, crushing, and wolfing food down. Their salivary enzymes are mostly designed to kill bacteria, which is why they can tolerate items that would send their human companions to the hospital. Food travels rapidly down the canine esophagus and enters the stomach in chunks, where most digestion takes place. Canine stomach acids are about three times stronger than those of humans, so they can digest food that is pretty much intact. Under normal circumstances, transit time from mouth through the small and large intestines should be under 10 hours, producing a firm, well-formed stool at the end. Dirty Dozen—Top 12 Causes of Doggie Diarrhea Many things can disrupt this well-balanced system, causing diarrhea or, less frequently, constipation. Some things, like eating too much grass, are not serious at all. Others can be a sign of a life-threatening problem, such as an indigestible object like a rock lodged in the stomach, or a disease like cancer. There are many reasons why a dog may develop loose stools, but most cases may be attributed to one of these 12 triggers: Dietary indiscretion: Eating too much, eating garbage, or spoiled food. Food intolerance Parasites: Most of these will cause illness in puppies or in adults with weak immune systems: Roundworms. Read the full disclosure here. Nearly every breed of dog out there suffers diarrhea at some point, but Labrador and golden retrievers are among the most vulnerable. Not many pet owners know about the symptoms and causes of diarrhea in goldens, as most of them are quite subtle and easy to ignore. But if your dog suffers from this disorder at some point, you will have to first find out the root cause before attempting to treat them. Now, if you truly care about your furry pal, this is the information you will want to have at your fingertips. Diarrhea In Dogs: Definition Like with most animals, diarrhea in dogs generally takes the form of loose or unformed stools. Sometimes this could happen in large amounts and so often. Treatment and healing time depends on the cause. If the illness causing the diarrhea is life-threatening, your dog will need advanced treatment and more time to heal. For more minor health conditions, treatment is often simple and quick—in fact, sometimes even home remedies work. The most important thing you should do in either situation is to begin treatment early. This will save your furry pal from suffering from severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and many other conditions that could worsen the situation. Like I touched on earlier, both labrador and golden retrievers are uniquely prone to diarrhea. A popular culprit is their almost uncontrollable appetite. Ingesting these kinds of foods and objects will usually lead to diarrhea. Expect the same when your dog swims in still waters by the roadside or a shallow stream. Such waters are full of bacteria, and so when your dog drinks some of it, diarrhea becomes inevitable. While this is usually the main culprit of diarrhea in golden retrievers, there are still plenty of other causes. Causes Of Diarrhea: Food Sensitivities Golden retrievers are one of many breeds that are especially prone to allergies. And guess what tops the list of allergens? Beef and chicken! If your dog is allergic to one or both of these foods, you will want to avoid them if your dog seems to have recurrent diarrhea. Causes Of Diarrhea: Diet Changes This is not just limited to humans; dogs too suffer stomach upsets and sudden diarrhea when you suddenly change their diet, say from a high protein to a fat-rich diet. Instead, gradually introduce new foods to their diet in small amounts. Causes Of Diarrhea: Infections Infections in dogs are mostly caused by viruses, with the most common ones being parvovirus , coronavirus, and distemper. Infections could also be parasitic, fungal, or bacterial. In most cases, they develop into diarrhea, alongside other unpleasant and often painful conditions. Most types of infections will need to be treated with medications prescribed by a veterinarian. Causes Of Diarrhea: Toxins Various foods and other substances are toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. Most have been linked with diarrhea in dogs, particularly those found in human foods and drugs. Some of the most common are: Chocolate,

All of our dogs meet the European Standard for health, confirmation, and working ability. On this website we expose the AKC, and American Veterinary System for the pain, suffering and destruction they are causing to this breed. We also expose German Shepherds. This is why that from the over 50, German Shepherd Breeders in the U. You will learn that modern Schutzhund dogs are NOT working dogs, only trained in obedience, to bite a bite sleeve, to track an article across a field, but can hardly function off leash, and certainly could NOT function in the Real working dog World!! You will learn how and why this is happening. In Europe, German Shepherd puppy and dog prices are uniform. However in the U. We break all of that down for you so you specifically what all of this means. This is an incredible and sad statement. Sad that you would know more than ANY breeder, trainer or Veterinarian in America just by reading one website…. .Our puppy facility is located on 12 acres in Tennessee. Unless required to do serious protection, tracking, or Narcotics detection, Authentic German Shepherds dogs do NOT need serious training, only good Parenting from their Owners. This is why you only want to acquire an Authentic German Shepherd Dog. VZH is non-profit, the price of our puppies and dogs is dictated by our overhead. Our dogs thrive on acres of woods and water. We cover everything A-Z here to make you the best dog Parent possible. While he is yet to publish anything in book or journal form, he has amassed hundreds of pages of notes, statistics, spreadsheets, and interviewed hundreds of experts associated with the German Shepherd Dog Worldwide. Edward conducts hours of research each day as time permits, this has been ongoing for over 30 years. German Shepherd Owners give their dogs time they can spare, room they can spare, and love that they can spare. Our breeding program has earned the the highest level of accomplishments that a kennel in the United States can achieve. Nadelhaus breeds purebred German Shepherds year round and we also import both German Shepherd puppies and adults direct from Europe for our clients. Long-haired German Shepherds are technically called a long coat German Shepherd, while a short-haired German Shepherd is called a normal coat or stock coat German Shepherd. Dogs with either coat have the same physiological structure and both have double coats: an undercoat and a top coat. The only difference between the two is the top coat. The long haired German Shepherd will have a heavier top coat than the undercoat. The double coat of a German Shepherd is an important feature of the breed. The double coat weathers and insulates the dogs—it protects them from the cold in the winter and the heat in the summer. The length of the coat of a German Shepherd has no impact on its ability as a working dog. What does a long haired German Shepherd look like? The skeleton and structure of a long-haired German Shepherd will be the same as a short-haired German Shepherd. Both dogs will have an undercoat, but the difference is that the top coat of a long-haired German Shepherd will be longer. The long coat GSD has longer and silkier hair on the chest, back, face, tail, and on the backside of its legs. Short on the head, including the inside of the ears, on the front side of the legs, on the paws and toes, somewhat longer and more strongly covered in hair on the neck, almost forming a mane. On the back side of the legs the hair extends to the carpal joint or the hock and forms clear trousers on the back side of the haunches. Historically, German Shepherds originated in Germany and were native sheepdogs. He firmly believed that the standard of the German Shepherd breed should not include dogs with long hair. Throughout the s, long haired German Shepherds were considered unsuitable and unacceptable for breeding. It is important to note that long-haired German Shepherds are the result of natural genetic diversity and not a separate breed. Their long coats are an inherited trait that can occur when both parents carry the recessive long-hair gene. This gene manifests as a more luxurious and abundant coat, offering a striking contrast to the traditional short-haired German Shepherd appearance. The breeding of long-haired German Shepherds follows the same rigorous standards and principles as their short-haired counterparts. The focus remains on maintaining the breed's exceptional temperament, working abilities, and overall health. Over time, breeders recognized the value of long-haired German Shepherds and began selectively breeding them to maintain and enhance their unique characteristics. Through careful pairings and strategic breeding programs, the long-haired variety established itself as a distinct and cherished branch of the German Shepherd breed. How big do long-haired German Shepherds get? Long-haired German Shepherds are structurally the same as short-haired German Shepherds, therefore they can both grow to similar sizes. Males: inches tall, pounds Females: inches tall, pounds Since both German Shepherds are physiologically the same, they also have the same temperaments: loyal, intelligent, energetic, courageous and protective. German Shepherds are ranked 2 on the AKC Breed Popularity list and make for wonderful family companions and working dogs. How can I identify a long-haired German Shepherd puppy? In the photo below are two litter mates from a recent Nadelhaus litter. The puppy on the left is a long coat and the puppy on the right is a normal coat. The long coat has wispier hair on the chest, back, face, tail, and on the backside of its legs. Long-hair female German Shepherd next to short-hair male German Shepherd. Genetically in German Shepherds, the short hair gene is dominant and the long hair gene is recessive. This means if two short-haired German Shepherds are mated, but neither carries the recessive long hair gene, then no long haired puppies can be produced. However, if two short-haired German Shepherds are mated and both carry the recessive gene, then long-haired German Shepherd puppies can be produced. Long-haired German Shepherds are considered a less common variant of the breed, adding to their allure and exclusivity. While short-haired German Shepherds dominate the breed standard, enthusiasts of long-haired Shepherds appreciate their unique beauty and elegant appearance. Due to their rarity, finding a reputable breeder or rescue organization specializing in long-haired German Shepherds may require some research and patience. However, the joy of owning one of these beautiful dogs is well worth the effort for those who appreciate their longer coats and exceptional qualities. Do long-haired German Shepherds shed more than short-haired German Shepherds? No, this is a common misconception. Although they shed less than short haired German Shepherds, their coats still require regular maintenance. They will need regular brushing and grooming, especially if you enjoy hiking or outdoor activities with your GSD. While it is a rare occurrence for a long-haired GSD to not have an undercoat, most of them do have undercoats. And just like short-haired GSDs, their undercoats will shed more or less throughout the year depending on the season. Should I trim my long haired German Shepherd's coat? The decision to trim a long haired German Shepherd comes down to personal preference, but it is not a necessity. Trimming can help make for more manageable living around the house. If you choose to trim, you can trim around the backs of the ears, on the back of the legs both front and back and then thin the bushy tail. Shaving a German Shepherd on the other hand is never recommended. Their double coats help keep them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. What are long haired German Shepherds called? Regular brushing: Long-haired German Shepherds require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles. Aim for at least a few brushing sessions per week to keep their coat in good condition. Finish your brushing session with a gentle dog brush to clean up loose hairs. Bathing and drying: It's important to bathe your long-haired German Shepherd as needed, using a dog-specific shampoo. Be sure to thoroughly rinse out all the shampoo to prevent any residue. After bathing, use a high-velocity dryer or a cool air dryer to dry their coat thoroughly, as moisture trapped in the fur can lead to skin issues. Professional grooming: Consider taking your long-haired German Shepherd to a professional groomer for occasional trimming and coat maintenance. A groomer can help keep the fur around sensitive areas, such as the paws and ears, tidy and reduce the chances of matting. Watch for seasonal shedding: Like all German Shepherds, long-haired ones will undergo shedding seasons. Be prepared for increased shedding during these times and brush your dog more frequently to remove loose hair. A de-shedding tool can be helpful in managing shedding and keeping their coat healthy. Remember, each dog is unique, and the specific care requirements may vary. Does Nadelhaus sell long haired German Shepherd puppies? Nadelhaus breeds German Shepherds puppies year round and while the majority of puppies we sell are short hair, we do have occasionally have long haired puppies. We breed all our German Shepherds in the black and red color. If you are looking for a long haired adult German Shepherd, we can also import long-haired German Shepherds direct from Europe. Contact us for more information. Our dogs are x-rayed and certified through the orthopedic foundation for animals OFA and they are also PennHip certified. We participate in conformation shows through the United Kennel Club and have several champions. Learn more about our breeding program here Knowledge in raising the finest puppies There is more to producing amazing puppies than just careful selection in breeding. We strive to produce perfection in the way we nourish, train and enrich our puppies lives from birth. What sets us above the rest is the enrichment we provide for our litters. We go the extra mile to make sure that our puppies have the best start in life as possible. We focus on quality over quantity by never having more then 2 litters at a time. We have been raising these magnificent dogs for over 20 years. Learn more about how our puppies are raised here Located in beautiful South Carolina We are located in the beautiful midlands of South Carolina. A beautiful unique color is just icing on the cake of an already exceptional dog. Our non-traditional color lines have some of the highest hip ratings in the US! Learn more about GSD colors here We hope you enjoy looking around our website and getting to know about us, our dogs and the unique way we raise our puppies! Visits are by appointment only. If you are in California and want a puppy from us we can still make it happen as we can deliver! My husband got this made for me in .Puppy pads Create a Schedule German Shepherd pups would do well with a schedule. Dogs live with a routine, and they are easy to train by having one. For this reason, make a schedule of the things you need to do regularly. Eventually, your pup will learn the routine events and will make itself adept at them. It will help you prepare for your pet, especially in the first few days of living together. As you allow your pet to adjust, do your best to create a stress-free environment for it. Always supervise it as it familiarizes itself with its new home. Still, it would be best to prepare yourself for loud noises when your pet is asleep. Moderate Training German Shepherds are highly trainable. It simply means they respond well, especially to positive reinforcement. Squeaky Toys Out of all toys, your pet will love the squeaky ones. For this reason, prepare for a lot of loud squeaks every time your pet is active. Thus, in picking your pet, you may want to consider getting it from the best. Tells you any health problems A good breeder will tell you any significant health problems in any of the dogs he or she bred. Asks more questions than you A good breeder would ask for more items from you than you would for him or her. Not in a hurry to send off A good breeder is not in a hurry to send the puppies off and get your money. He or she will even show you other breeders and veterinarians caring for their dogs. Requires expectations on both sides A good breeder will create a contract that offers not only what he or she expects from you. More than that, he or she will also show what you can expect from him or her. Sends puppies properly A good breeder will never send a puppy in a compartment and without any responsible person to go with it. Works only with one or two breeds A good breeder works only with a single or a couple of species. Shows breeding experience A good breeder shows her dogs in recognized confirmation shows. He or she will also join his or her breed in other breed-related performance events. Other states. We have answers. The challenge comes when you start to try and determine the reason that these puppies are priced so drastically different. If finding a purebred or purpose-bred designer puppy is important to you, you probably also want to know your new family member's health and behavioral history. That being said, as dog lovers by no means are we anti-shelter, in fact we realize all of the benefits that shelters offer. What is a backyard breeder? A backyard breeder is a term used for puppy businesses who are operating out of a spare bedroom or even out of a residential backyard. With so many backyard breeders flooding the marketing finding German Shepherds for sale in Nashville from reputable puppy businesses can be difficult. How does Uptown Puppies view transparency when it comes to breeding puppies? When it comes to finding the perfect breeder transparency is extremely important. Working with Uptown is far different than just typing a few random terms into your favorite online search engine. How do I find healthy German Shepherd puppies in Nashville? Finding a litter of well-taken care of Nashville German Shepherds for sale and taking one home to meet your family is one of the best feelings in the world. Is it enough to walk my dog, or do they need more exercise? For a lot of dogs a walk around the block or a stroll to the grocery store will be enough but as the dog gets bigger that situation evolves. German Shepherds were bred to be working dogs so you should expect them to have a lot more energy than a Poodle or Miniature Schnauzer. What is a puppy mill? Puppy mills are facilities that breed countless German Shepherds or other valuable dogs while also limiting the resources they are putting into the process. Puppy mills may have grand buildings but that is only because they want to cram as many puppies into them as possible.

They love their Pugs, and some of their Pugs have made excellent service and therapy dogs. The puppies are sold after they are 8 weeks old and have been veterinarian certified for health. Located in Lucerne Valley, which is roughly a 3-hour drive away from San Diego, they do not ship their puppies solely to ensure the safety and happiness of their puppies. Instead, they make sure to meet the future owners to be sure that their babies are going to the right home. All the puppies are socialized and familiar with a doggy door. They are up to date on the necessary vaccinations, and their dewclaws have been removed. Health is the most important concern at A Bit Pugish, and each puppy comes with a health guarantee, NuVet vitamin samples, and AKC registration papers. The puppies are microchipped and come with a bag of puppy food and a puppy pack to ensure an easy transition into their new home and to provide the new owner with the right direction in caring for their puppy. Pug puppies for sale at A Bit Pugish are eligible for a refund only if a health issue arises. The owners will be eligible for a full refund if they provide evidence from a licensed veterinarian health examination. In case the owner chooses to keep the puppy despite its health issues, the expenses will be their responsibility. Tesoro Pugs Tesoro Pugs specializes in raising champion Pugs and has been doing so since .As seasoned Pug breeders, Tesoro Pugs have over two decades of breeding experience in carefully raising healthy puppies. They treasure their puppies and breed only once or twice a year with the best of their AKC champions. They do not sell all their pups, as they keep the puppies that have show potential. To reserve one of their limited breeds, you will have to make a non-refundable deposit, and they will carry out a thorough investigation to ensure that you are the right parent for their little furry baby. Companion or pet puppies are sold at 10 weeks of age after thorough health testing. Tesoro Pugs have earned laurels through their dogs, winning multiple championships, and continue to raise and train puppies that are the next champions. Tesoro Pugs Details:. Please review our Adoption Process before filling out an application. My name is Pickadilly, and I was rescued from Ensenada, Mexico by a kind human who happened to notice me scavenging around a local landfill in a pack of other strays. I was just a puppy so I didn't run away and approached the human. The others ran away. I was taken to her home given a nice long bath and started what they called 'the quarantine' since I was rescued early July I am now available for adoption but continue to stay with my rescuer in her home shared by her human family which includes small little humans, other doggy friends and some funny acrobatic looking little monsters they call 'cats' whom i actually enjoy very much! Would you be able to help me? Submit an application NOW! A volunteer will review it and text or email you to schedule a min call to talk about the adoption process and if both parties want to move fwd schedule a meet and greet in the clairemont, mission valley or La Mesa area. We can schedule meet and greets ANY day of the week and any time during daylight as long as foster parent is available. Visit this organization's web site to see any additional information available about this pet. Military QuestionnaireSeptember 14, , pm. We have answers. Pugs can be pretty lazy, which is not a bad thing when you live in an apartment, condo, or other smaller living space. They can be known to pack on the pounds so still be sure to walk them daily as well! Is my search limited to Pug puppies for sale in San Diego? In the past, you mostly had to stick to your immediate area when it came time to Pugs for sale San Diego. The breeders and businesses in our network are experts at getting your pup to you with best in class travel! How are San Diego Pug breeders vetted? This is because we have stringent screening requirements and processes in place to ensure we are only working with the highest rated and most ethical breeders out there, especially when it comes to San Diego Pug puppies for sale. How much is a Pug for sale in San Diego? For one thing, the expertise and location of the breeder can impact the final price. Other physical traits of the dog such as eye color, sex and temperament can also all have an impact on the price. Start browning our network to see which puppy is right for you! Finding Pug breeders San Diego online can be challenging to do on your own if you have to do the research on dozens of breeders to make sure they are living up to the best standards in animal welfare. When you work with Uptown Puppies and start searching through our network, you will know that each breeder or business has been thoroughly screened. Are puppy mills really that bad? Puppy mills are truly horrible organizations that focus on profits above the safety and well being of the animals. Oftentimes the puppies and parents at puppy mills are neglected in the interest of getting as many puppies as possible to sell. Avoid this fate for your Pug San Diego. Are there San Diego Pugs for sale I can get right away? The hard part will be choosing from all that adorableness! Pugs are a small sized dog who originally came from China many centuries ago. They were brought over to the European continent soon after and became a favorite of the Dutch royal family. This really put Pugs on the map and they begin to rise in popularity from then on. They continue to be a hugely popular breed to this day. How big do Pugs get? Pug puppies San Diego are a member of the toy breed group and they can get from ten to eleven inches in height and they typically weigh anywhere from fourteen to eighteen pounds. What level of grooming do Pugs require? Pugs are relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming but they do need all the basics! If you give them a bath about once a month, and make sure to clean their ears and wrinkles then they will be in good shape. Luckily they love the attention they get when grooming, making it a breeze. Find your San Diego Pug for sale today!

The long adolescent period that ends the puppy years is highly individual, but most dogs mature somewhere before 3 years of age. The Neonatal Stage This is the very earliest stage your German shepherd will pass through. Simply put, this is the helpless baby stage when your puppy's eyes will still be closed and he is completely dependent upon his mother. She will feed him, wash him and clean up after his accidents for the first two or three weeks. His eyes will open at around 10 days. At this time, your puppy is little more than an eating machine -- filling his belly to help his tiny body grow and develop. The Transitional Stage Though it is short and indistinct, the transitional stage from the neonatal to the socialization stage is important to your pup's development nevertheless. This brief phase -- lasting only about a week after his eyes open -- marks the period when your German shepherd begins to notice his environment. He will start to look at things curiously and be aware of sounds around him. Prior to this he has been in his own little world with no sights or sounds beyond his own body and that of his mother. When his eyes open, the immediate environment -- with other living beings -- is suddenly a part of life that he must face. The Socialization Stage At around 3 weeks, your puppy begins to learn how to interact with others -- both animals and the humans around him. He has already had some practice with dogs through the daily contact with his mother and litter mates, but now he begins to expand his circle of acquaintance to other dogs or cats in the household and to the family of humans around him. This is the most critically important phase in your German shepherd's development and helps decide his later suitability for work in rescue, service or as a family dog. At this time, he should have opportunities to meet as many new animals and faces under differing circumstances as possible, so he becomes comfortable with meeting people and other animals in a variety of situations when he grows up. This stage lasts to about 3 months of age and is the period when puppies are at their most impressionable and playful. The Juvenile Stage From 3 to 6 months old, your puppy will begin to look beyond the biological world of dogs, cats and people to the larger world around him. He will want to explore new places more than new faces at this point -- which may often get him into trouble. This is an active and trying age for puppy parents. Your puppy looks like a mostly grown-up dog but behaves entirely like a pup. His attention span is about as long as that of the average teenager, so this is not a particularly easy time for obedience classes. Your shepherd will have other things on his mind, but pet parents should continue to persevere because this is the best stage to resolve any obvious aggression or anxiety issues your pup may display. If those issues are not addressed early, they could become larger problems later on. To make things a tad more difficult, at around 5 months of age, your German shepherd starts to mature sexually. The Adolescent Stage The teenage angst that human children go through is roughly equivalent to what pet parents can expect from their adolescent German shepherd. Beginning with the onset of sexual maturity and lasting through the first two years of his life, your puppy's hormones will rage uncontrollably unless he is neutered early. This stage is usually marked by mounting -- anything and everything -- marking his territory and even fighting with other male dogs. Females will enter their first estrus period at this time and may try to escape the yard or otherwise pose problems. The pup's body has become adult, and his brain is fully alert and capable, but his emotions are still in the turbulent transitional phase from teenager to full adult. If he were human, this would be the stage at which you would hide the car keys. As an adult, your German shepherd is finally the calm, dignified, courageous and respectful dog you always knew he would grow up to be. If you were patient and dedicated through those early, sometimes difficult, years, you now have a well-trained and disciplined companion for life. More Articles. German Shepherd puppies available in Colorado German Shepherd puppies available in ColoradoGerman Shepherd puppies available in Colorado Puppy development - Understanding the Stages Puppy Development - The Stages Explained Understanding the puppy development stages will help you build the personality and character you want in your pup, which starts with training at each stage of development. To have a wonderfully social dog, that isn't fearful or aggressive, you need to ensure his needs are met during each phase of development. Probably one of the most important things you can do to achieve this is to get the right training at the right time. And that's not just for your pup; puppy parents need training too! You need to know how to integrate your puppy into the family and establish yourself as the pack leader. You'll see many behavioral changes during the life stages of your pup, some of which will no doubt test you, particularly when they reach the final stage - adolescence! Overview of Stages The puppy development process covers five distinct stages: 1. Neonatal Period at Weeks 2. Transitional Period at Weeks 3. Socialization Period at Weeks 4. Ranking Period at Months 5. Adolescence at Months Stage 1: Neonatal Period at Weeks The first stage of puppy development is when they are born. Most of us won't have our puppies at this stage but, if you are getting your puppy from a breeder, you may get the occasional picture from the breeder. At this age, puppies only have a sense of taste and touch and rely totally on their mother. Stage 2: Transitional Period at Weeks You're still not likely to see your puppy at this age but the breeder will start to notice some more senses developing, such as their hearing and sense of smell. They'll also start to have their puppy teeth coming through and their eyes will begin to open. This is also the age when they start to develop their little personalities. They will interact with their littermates, wag their tails, stand, walk a little, and are able to bark. Stage 3: Socialization Period at Weeks This is the most important stage of a puppy's development. It's also the stage where the most critical changes occur, and guess what, you're probably going to bring your puppy home during this period! Most puppies go home to their new parents at the age of 7 - 9 weeks so understanding this stage is vital. During this period, changes start to occur rapidly, so let's break down this puppy development phase. This is also where you can separate the good breeders from the puppy-mill-type breeders. Note: At Centennial GSD, our puppies are born and raised in our home where their interaction with humans and other animals begins at birth and accelerates at 21 days old; the most critical time in early puppy development. Unfortunately, puppies that are from puppy mills usually sold in pet shops don't get the opportunity to develop a relationship with humans until you bring them home. This sets them back with socialization from the start and additional work is needed to enable them to become fully sociable dogs. Puppies that are born in kennels or outside are also unfamiliar with the day-to-day noises of a regular household such as TV, vacuum cleaner, dishwasher, washing machine, phones, talking, laughing, people dropping things, you name it! You'd be surprised by how much noise we make on a daily basis and how frightening that can be to a puppy that has been raised outside. Once the puppies are at least 5 or 6 weeks old you should, if possible, ask the breeder if you can schedule a visit to see the puppies. Most good breeders recognize that the socialization period has already begun and will gladly welcome future pet parents visiting the puppies. What you're looking for in the photos is evidence that the puppies are comfortable around humans and ideally that they are indoors, preferably in a household. If all you see are photos of the puppies in a kennel, or outside, then you may start off with problems with socializing your puppy when you get them home. If you can't visit, then question your breeder on what plans they have in place for the puppies to be indoors and meet new people between the ages of weeks. If they have no plans in place then I would seriously reconsider using this breeder as they are hindering the socialization period of these puppies. These puppies could easily become shy or fearful around people and noises , which could lead to a fear aggression problem. If you do visit the puppies at 5 weeks old you're likely to see some fun stuff. At this age, puppies are just learning to interact with each other and begin to play. They are also learning their doggie social skills as well as beginning to explore their ranking status within their pack. Their curiosity is now starting to develop so they will be interested in you and may well nip at you as their biting skills are developing too. Seek out ways to handle puppy biting appropriately. Therefore, it is vital that you introduce your puppy to as many new dogs, people, objects, and surroundings as you can. BUT, make sure you do so in a controlled manner. If you have another dog at home you should make sure you introduce your puppy to your existing dog on neutral territory. When bringing a new puppy home it is also important that you puppy-proof your home for the sake of your puppy and your possessions! It is also a good time to start a program to get your puppy used to being left alone to avoid separation anxiety from developing. From the age of 7 weeks, puppies are more than capable of being able to be house-trained so make sure you start them off right. At this phase of puppy development, the little guys are developing their reactions to things a lot more. They are also likely to focus more on different types of people and, as long as your breeder and you did a good job initially, should be friendly and approachable to strangers. During this time they are also going to practice their biting skills a whole lot more! Previously they would play and bite with their littermates. Puppies will yelp when another pup bites too hard which provides feedback to that pup to bite softer. You now have to try and mimic this behavior to teach your puppy not to bite. This is called bite inhibition and is quite easy to learn and teach your pups. You'll also notice that they may start to wander off a bit as they are more curious and will probably look to explore their environment a lot more. Be prepared for this at this age. That cute little puppy that you could take out for a potty break without a leash now needs to be on a leash! Generally, puppies at around 8 - 9 weeks old will not wander off but once they reach the age of around 12 weeks of age curiosity begins to take over and they will venture out or even chase a rabbit rather than stay close. Stage 4: Ranking Period at Months If you have another dog in your household you may start to see more ranking behavior from your puppy towards other dogs. You'll likely see him practicing his dominance and submission skills, which he may well practice on you too. If you haven't done so already, make sure you start a training program with your pup. At this age, your puppy is going to go through teething so watch out, as chewing is a big factor at this time. You may also notice that there is blood on his toys and chews or in his mouth during the teething phase. Sometimes a puppy's tooth doesn't fall out and the adult tooth will come in next to it. If you notice this in your pup, take him to the vet as it will need to be removed by the vet to prevent it from interfering with the alignment of his teeth and can also cause root infections. Your puppy is usually done teething by the age of 6 months but you can tell when your puppy is finished teething once you see the upper fangs canines come in as they are last. Stage 5: Adolescence at Months Adolescence in German Shepherd Dogs will begin around nine or ten months old and likely continue until they are two or three years old. Consistency is key at this point so is routine. Puppy Development and Fear Periods During puppy development, puppies go through fear periods, in fact, on average they go through 4 fear periods. These are approximately at the following ages: 1. Between Weeks 2. Between 4 - 6 Months 3. About 9 Months 4. Between 14 - 18 Months This is a very important part of puppy development, as if you handle this incorrectly, you could end up with an aggression problem for life. As your puppy enters a fear period, he will suddenly become frightened of something that he used to be OK with or used to ignore. His reaction could be hunched down, shaking, backing away, hiding, running away, or submissively urinating. Or, your puppy could display more pronounced behaviors such as growling, barking, hackles up, or showing teeth. Either way, once you recognize one of these behaviors at the age range mentioned above, you would be wise to stop taking your puppy to new places and introducing them to new things for about a week. And if you can, don't schedule any vet appointments during a fear period. Your new puppy can grow up to be everything you want if you recognize these critical puppy development phases so you can prepare and react accordingly. Puppy Development Wrap Up By understanding what each stage involves with your puppy's development, you can get a good idea of what to expect, both developmentally and behaviorally. You'll also be better equipped to provide your puppy with the right care throughout each phase. Finally, providing a stable routine, consistency, positive training, and plenty of socialization and exercise you are more likely to produce a well-balanced and emotionally stable dog. After all, it is these periods of a puppy's life that will shape his personality and character. Quite simply, puppy development affects behavior, and behavior, molds character. Content courtesy of Sharon Dianora. Are male and female German shepherds different? The Neonatal Period. Birth-2 Weeks. In the first two weeks of their life your puppy is mostly helpless and fully dependant on their mother. Their mother will be responsible for feeding, eliminating waste and keeping them warm. The puppies will be able to taste, touch and feel warmth but their eyes and ears are sealed shut. You should see the following milestones hit in the first two weeks. What you should expect to see: Puppies Starting to Crawl Eyes and ears starting to open Teeth starting to appear By the end of the first two weeks your puppies should be able to stand up, albeit a little shakily and have their eyes and ears fully open. The Transitional Period. They will start to be able to control their body and temperature much better. They will start to interact with their litter mates but will still be largely dependent on their mother. What you should expect to see: Puppies Walking Well Puppies Interacting with you and their littermates Puppy teeth almost complete. The Socialisation Period 4weeks — 3 months The puppies will now have complete control of their body and will start exploring the world around them. The latter half of this period is the ideal time to rehome the puppies as this is when they are most susceptible to learning new things and they can start to be taught basic commands. Between weeks your puppy may start to display signs of some fearfulness. This is perfectly normal and will need to be nurtured Not encouraged by you. What you should expect to see: Start showing adult behaviours Wagging tails, sniffing bums Start to be able to be taught basic commands Ears begin to sit upright. The Juvenile Period 3months-6months Your German Shepherd puppy will become much more independent during this period. They will start to understand dominance and will explore their home to understand where their position is in the household. What you should expect to see: Female puppies begin heat cycles Ears now fully upright Males reach sexual maturity The Adolescence Period 6monthsmonths Most of your puppies social understanding and behaviours will have developed by this point but a reinforcement of these is still important. Your puppy will be at their most energetic and will require a structured training routine to help them to continue to develop. Males are considered fully grown at 36months whereas females reach this mark around 24months. You will know have an excellent, loyal family pet and companion to spend many years together with. German Shepherds are a medium-large breed. Females will grow to around inches and weigh lbs whereas the males will grow to around inches and weigh lbs. How many puppies is there in the average German Shepherd litter? German Shepherd litters Usually consist of between 5 and 10 puppies. How long do German shepherds live? The average life span for a German Shepherd is somewhere between 9 and 14 years. Other than the size difference already discussed females tend to be more affectionate than males where is male dogs are usually more protective of their surroundings and their families. Related Posts. Though they typically only average nine to thirteen years, those years can be very memorable and special to dog and owner. Along the way, there are several German Shepherd growth stages that they will encounter including several fun and exciting breakthroughs. They will go through many different levels of development stacking up in inches and packing on the pounds. German Shepherd Growth Stages: This article will cover in detail, all of the month-to-month growth stages including their size from 1 month old to 3-year-old. It will also include important milestones along the way. This is the puppy portion of the German Shepherd growth stages and these cute little fur balls are beginning their journey into the new world. They are independent, spry and ready to explore! They are starting to grow but stand no taller than half a foot. Cuteness Factor: Through the roof! Height: Male: 4 — 6 in 11 — 16 cm Female: 3 — 6 in 8 — 14 cm Weight: Male: 5. They stand up for the first time. They start exploring independently and playing. Bowel movements are partially controlled. Light barking and growling begin. Puppy teeth should be filling in. This is a good time to introduce them to some kibble. They may or may not be interested. Month 2: Socialization Growth Stage Once the fuzz balls reach month 2, they start socializing more with other animals and people. This is also the time that their little chompers should be complete. They have grown up a little but still remain under a foot tall. Cuteness Factor: Just look at my ears! Height: Male: 7 — 9 in 17 — 22 cm Female: 6 — 9 in 14 — 22 cm Weight: Male: 16 — 20 lbs 6 — 9 kg Female: 11 — 17 lbs 5 — 7. They start to bond with animals and people. Their mental development starts to speed up. Fear reaction begins. They are typically ready to find their forever home. Food: Weaning should be wrapping up at this age. They should transition to a diet of puppy kibble. One and a half cups total three times a day is recommended but stick to a solid schedule. Vaccines: Puppy should have distemper and parvovirus by this time. Teething will be in full force at month 3 and their adult canines and incisors will start to push through. Those cute little fluffy ears may start to go up and down. They will start to lose their puppy coat and you may notice a racing stripe on the spine where the adult hair is starting to grow in. At this point they have almost made it to the height of a standard ruler. Cuteness Factor: Equal to fluffy pillows! Height: Male: 9 — 11 in 23 — 27 cm Female: 8 — 10 in 20 — 25 cm Weight: Male: 22 — 30 lbs 10 — 14 kg Female: 17 — 26 lbs 8 — 12 kg Milestones: Ears begin to stand up. Teething stage begins and continues for several months. Lots of biting and chewing ensures. Potty training and socialization should be consistent. Puppy fuzz begins to be replaced with adult double coat of fur. Food: Two cups of puppy kibble total three times a day is recommended. Vaccines: DHPP which includes distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus are recommended. Month 4: At this point GSDs will be very playful and getting into some trouble. They have left puppy hood and become adolescents. Multiple skills will be developing as they learn, socialize and train. Height: Male: 11 — 14 in 29 — 35 cm Female: 10 — 12 in 26 — 31 cm Weight: Male: 35 — 40 lbs 16 — 18 kg Female: 31 — 35 lbs 14 — 16 kg Milestones: Ears continue to perk up. Teething continues as adult teeth come in. They continue to play and explore everything around them. Training continues as they constantly learn. Food: Puppy should continue to eat two cups of kibble total three times per day. Vaccines: DHPP and rabies are recommended. Month 5: At 5 months of age, they are still growing fast and should have gained close to 10 pounds. They are still in the juvenile stage and have plenty of energy to go around. They are looking much more like an adult but still have that puppy spirit. Ears may have perked up at this point. Cuteness Factor: Cute as pumpkin pie! Height: Male: 14 — 16 in 35 — 40 cm Female: 12 — 14 in 31 — 36 cm Weight: Male: 40 — 49 lbs 18 — 22 kg Female: 35 — 44 lbs 16 — 20 kg Milestones: Ears may be standing up. Adult features are filling out. They are at least half of their adult size. They are still teething. Sexual maturity begins to emerge. Food: Juvenile should still be eating around two cups total three times a day. Month 6: Adolescent Growth Stage At 6 months old, they are making their way into the adolescent part of the German Shepherd growth stages. They will be starting to get into their sexual maturity stage which will last until they are around two years old. Hormones will kick in and males will begin to mark their territory and look for females to mate with. Females may go into heat for the first time. Their adult coat should be completely grown in but it could take a bit longer. Cuteness Factor: Equivalent to a teddy bear! Height: Male: 16 — 18 in 41 — 46 cm Female: 15 — 17 in 37 — 42 cm Weight: Male: 49 — 57 lbs 22 — 26 kg Female: 44 — 49 lbs 20 — 22 kg Milestones: Ears should be standing up. Adult features are more filled out. They are sexually active and will begin marking their territory and roaming for mates. Teething should be close to finished and all 42 of their adult teeth should be almost grown. Full adult double coat of fur should be present. Food: Adolescent should be eating around two to three cups total two times a day. Month 7: At 7 months old , a German Shepherd should be well developed cognitively. Their sexual maturity continues, and your leg may just become their next mate. Some aggression may be present as their hormones go up and down. Their weight gain begins to slow down for the first time only adding around 5 pounds from the previous month. They are looking much more like an adult dog. Aggression and sexual maturity continue. Teething should be close to finished. Food: Adolescent should be eating two to three cups total two times a day. They are still maturing and could still be aggressive and bark or lunge at other dogs, kids or people. This behavior must be reined in with the proper training. Teaching them new tricks is a great way to curb their aggression. Cuteness Factor: Still able to melt your heart! Height: Male: 20 — 22 in 51 — 56 cm Female: 18 — 20 in 45 — 50 cm Weight: Male: 62 — 66 lbs 28 — 30 kg Female: 53 — 57 lbs 24 — 26 kg Milestones: Ears should be well formed and perky. They continue to transition into adulthood. They are still maturing, and aggressive behavior may be present. Teething should be finished, and all of their adult teeth should be grown. Month 9: At 9 months old, German Shepherds have reached most of their milestones. They should be sporting a full set of 42 adult chompers and some nice big perky ears. They are still maturing sexually and could be exhibiting aggressive behaviors, but training should be in full force. Cuteness Factor: Not puppy cute but still irresistible! Height: Male: 21 — 23 in 54 — 59 cm Female: 19 — 21 in 48 — 53 cm Weight: Male: 64 — 71 lbs 29 — 32 kg Female: 55 — 60 lbs 25 — 27 kg Milestones: They are still growing but only gaining a few pounds a month now. Month By 10 months of age, GSDs are still trucking along in the adolescent stage. They will still be acting like teenagers and may be getting into some trouble. Although clever and smart they will sometimes act clumsy and goofy. They are still learning and should be in training. Cuteness Factor: Cute and nutty like peanut butter! Height: Male: 22 — 24 in 55 — 60 cm Female: 19 — 21 in 48 — 53 cm Weight: Male: 66 — 73 lbs 30 — 33 kg Female: 57 — 62 lbs 26 — 28 kg Milestones: They are still growing but slowly. Month Moving into month 11, German Shepherds are becoming more and more adult but may be stubborn. They may start to challenge their owner with respect to leadership. They need to know that you are in charge and that they must respect your commands. Training and reinforcement is crucial during this time period. Cuteness Factor: Cute enough to get out of trouble! Height: Male: 22 — 24 in 57 — 62 cm Female: 20 — 22 in 51 — 56 cm Weight: Male: 66 — 75 lbs 30 — 34 kg Female: 60 — 64 lbs 27 — 29 kg Milestones: They are still growing slowly. Month 1 year old German Shepherds are moving out of the puppy phase of the German Shepherd growth stages and into adulthood. By now they have most likely formed a strong bond with their owner. They may still misbehave occasionally but proper training should be paying off. Food: Adolescent should transition to adult food and be eating three to three and a half cups total two times a day. Vaccines: DHPP, rabies are recommended. Year 1. They are getting closer to sexual maturity. Cuteness Factor: Furry and plushness overload! Height: Male: 23 — 25 in 59 — 64 cm Female: 21 — 22 in 53 — 55 cm Weight: Male: 71 — 79 lbs 32 — 36 kg Female: 60 — 66 lbs 27 — 30 kg Milestones: They are still growing but slowly. Food: Adolescent should be eating three to three and a half cups total two times a day. Year 2: At 2 years old, they should be well along in their journey to adulthood. With the proper training and socialization, they should be transforming into the alert, confident, courageous, loving and loyal German Shepherd companion that makes them so popular among dog owners. They are pretty much full grown at this point with only a few more pounds to pack onto their athletic frame. Cuteness Factor: Perfectly precious! Height: Male: 23 — 25 in 59 — 64 cm Female: 21 — 22 in 53 — 57 cm Weight: Male: 71 — 84 lbs 32 — 38 kg Female: 62 — 66 lbs 28 — 30 kg Milestones: They are still growing but almost full grown. Vaccines: DHPP is recommended. Year 3: Adult Growth Stage Your German Shepherd is finally an adult with all of the beautiful characteristics and traits that people admire. They have reached physical and sexual maturity and are ready to brave the new world. Consistent training should have payed off. They should be calm and well disciplined. Height: Male: 24 — 26 in 60 — 65 cm Female: 22 — 24 in 55 — 60 cm Weight: Male: 79 — 88 lbs 36 — 40 kg Female: 66 — 70 lbs 28 — 32 kg Milestones: They are done growing. They have matured physically and sexually. Food: Full grown adult should be eating three to three and a half cups total two times a day. Vaccines: Rabies is recommended and can be required by law depending on your state. A full grown adult German Shepherd will stand approximately 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 70 and 88 pounds on average. However, some German Shepherds will get bigger even getting over a pounds. Hopefully your GSD is in the correct range. Keep an eye out for any deficiencies during their growth. These German Shepherd growth stages should help you determine all of the proper measurements to make sure they are right on track in their development. Each stage in their maturation is important. Remember to give them a high-quality healthy diet, plenty of exercise and sufficient training and socialization. These will all help lead to a stable and well-adjusted German Shepherd. Please leave a comment below and let us know what you think! Do you have any experience with a growing German Shepherd? Let us know! We would love to hear about your personal story! Share this:. Puppyhood The first growth phase — puppyhood — has six development stages. During each of these stages, a puppy learns a lot of things. Neonatal Stage This period lasts from birth to 13 days. The puppy needs a lot of nursing from its mom because it is rather helpless. Its ears and eyes are closed, so it does not have any senses. The little pups should completely rely on their mothers for nourishment and care. By 2 weeks, they double their birth weight. They start crawling, and then their eyes and ears begin to open. The first milk teeth appear. The puppy can even stand up, but too unstably and shakily. This makes it possible for little ones to hear, smell, and taste. They even try to walk. Their baby teeth continue growing. The period between weeks is also called a transitional one. At the end of the third week, the motor skills start developing fast. The puppy can already control its temperature and body, namely, bowel movements. It begins to interact with its littermates. Nevertheless, the pup is still largely dependent on its mother. Though, you can interact with it. At the end of this period, the little cub is ready to explore the world. Its baby teeth are almost complete, and it can stand up more stably. It starts barking and growling a bit. The puppy grows quickly now. It actively interacts with its littermates. The baby dog can walk, and its baby teeth are complete. You can also consider the German Shepherd behavior stages from now. Its mental development starts because it discovers the world actively with its senses. Its walking improves, and it can make attempts to run, so it can even sometimes get in trouble. The puppy can start eating dog food. That is why it is important to begin weaning. The little one can recognize and greet its littermates and people, get interested in new things, and continue to explore the world. However, at this age, the first fear period can be experienced. Read our detailed guide about 6 week old German Shepherd puppy. It is the best period for taking your pet home. This period can be psychologically traumatic, so be careful not to expose the pet to direct sunlight because it may be afraid of it for its entire life. All the fears need your special attention. You need to nurture, but not encourage them. Read our detailed guide about 2 month old German Shepherd puppy. So, your puppy is three months old now. It is playful and active. Its teeth are complete. It is weaned and eats dog food. The feeding recommendation here is the overall one and a half cups, three times a day. It is also time to get your pet vaccinated against distemper and parvovirus. At the end of the third month, your little GSD can simulate its behavior after other dogs and humans. Training can start. Read our detailed guide about 3 month old German Shepherd puppy. Your puppy already has all its baby teeth, and adult canines and incisors begin to push through. It can even try to bite or nip you. The puppy coat begins to disappear and gets ready for replacement by the adult double-layer coat. You can see a racing stripe on its spine where the adult hair will grow. The puppy displays quick growth at this time, and it becomes stronger to withstand the possible fierce competition with its siblings if it is still staying with its family. It needs a lot of biting and chewing now for the correct growth of its adult teeth. Your pet needs consistent socialization and potty training now. After three months old, you should think about such vaccination as DHPP — distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. The juvenile phase lasts from 3 to 6 months, and it can be divided into three stages by month. Continue socializing and start more substantial training. You can consult the German Shepherd weight chart here to see whether your pup develops properly. So, be attentive to the games you play with your pet. Some of them can be dangerous and traumatic because your puppy may not know how to manage its body during them. You can give it two cups of kibble totally three times per day because it needs a lot of nutrition to grow. DHPP and rabies vaccines are recommended at this age. Your little pup is ready to explore the world. However, as a true teenager, it can become more stubborn and try not to listen to your commands. It starts to understand dominance and tries to persuade you in its leadership. Read our detailed guide about 4 month old German Shepherd puppy. During this month, it can gain about 10 pounds 4. Its ears have stably perked up by this time. It looks more like an adult dog but, as a true teenager, it is very playful and is always ready to go around. The adult teeth continue to appear. Sexual maturity starts emerging. You should feed your pet around two cups three times per day. A lot of training is also needed. Read our detailed guide about 5 month old German Shepherd puppy. It needs a lot of training and positive reinforcement. Now, your pet is fully house-trained, and it needs a lot of new experiences. The sixth month is a transition period to the Adolescent Phase. The ears are completely upright. Males achieve sexual maturity, while female puppies can experience heat cycles. Hormones start working, and male puppies can start marking the territory and looking for females to mate. The adult coat grows longer and gets its normal double layers. Adult teething is about to finish, and all 42 teeth appear. You should feed your dog with the overall two or three cups two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 6 month old German Shepherd puppy. Adolescence Phase Months German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years 36 months old. Females become adults when they are 2 years 24 months old. However, these criteria differ for every puppy. That is why the adolescence phase lasts from the end of the 6th month to the end of the second year of age 24 months on average. By the end of this phase, the puppy reaches its full size though it will continue slightly growing. Your dog can display testing boundaries, so disobedience is widely encountered if the dog is not properly trained. German Shepherds do not look like puppies anymore. Within this period, some dogs can display their second fear period at approximately months old , though to avoid long-lasting psychological trauma, you should ignore the fears. Some dogs may occasionally forget their skills that they have already acquired, so you may need to repeat training again. Here, the reinforced training is useful because some puppies can become entirely rambunctious. Your pet will also need more socialization since it reaches its sexual maturity, and some of its reactions can be pretty unexpected. Its sexual maturity continues, which may cause some aggression because of increases and decreases in hormones. The puppy does not gain weight so fast. Teething is finished. The German Shepherd starts looking more similar to an adult dog, with its standing up ears and well-developed muscles. The food your dog needs involves two or three cups total, given two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 7 month old German Shepherd puppy. It displays a lot of aggression. It can bark or lunge at other animals, kids, and unfamiliar people. A lot of training and reinforcement is needed. You can teach the youngster new tricks to deal with their aggression. The dog has strong adult teeth, and its ears are well-formed and perky. The transition to adulthood continues. As for food, your dog needs two-three cups in total two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 8 month old German Shepherd puppy. It does not grow fast, gaining about a couple of pounds per month. The dog needs two-three cups of food two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 9 month old German Shepherd puppy. They are very active and need a lot of attention and training. Sometimes, they can be really goofy or clumsy because they are still learning and do not know how to behave in many events. Your pup is very smart and clever but tends to display a lot of aggression if not supported and reinforced properly. The dogs should eat two-three cups in total per day. Read our detailed guide about 10 month old German Shepherd pupp y. It starts to challenge you as an owner and likes to demonstrate its leadership. You should teach it to be responsible and obey your commands. A lot of training and reinforcement is crucial. Still, give it two or three cups in total per day. It becomes a bit destructive, but be sure not to get angry or upset with it. It needs your patience and positive attitude. Such vaccines as DHPP and rabies are recommended at this age. It should also transit to adult food. Give it three or three and a half cups total twice a day. Read our detailed guide about 1 year old German Shepherd puppy. Years 1. This time is considered a transition period. The dog may have problems with fears and memory breakdowns. It may even forget how to do familiar things and should be trained again. However, its attention span is longer at this age, so it can have a more thorough obedience training. The dog should eat three or three and a half cups two times a day. Year 2 months — The Second Transition Phase This is one more transition period known as young adulthood. Your dog still displays some aggression. That is why they continue to need reinforcement, training, and socialization. It has already gained its athletic frame and strong muscle, and only several pounds are lacking for reaching its adult weight. In fact, you get a German Shepherd full-grown pet now. The DHPP vaccination is recommended at this age. Continue to feed your dog with three to three and a half cups in total twice per day. It has become a loyal and protective family pet or an obedient and enduring working dog. The young adulthood stage lasts from the second to the third year after the puppy was born. Its size is typical now for an adult dog. However, it may continue to grow slightly, but the changes are not noticeable at all. At this phase, you can also notice that your pet becomes more and more active. It needs a lot of exercise and training. A lot of physical activity is essential for the dog to stay in high spirits. The period between the second and third years of life is also called the adult growth stage. This is the time when your friend gets its excellent breed characteristics. It loves attention very much and continues to learn new things eagerly. The dog enjoys training sessions and strives for new experiences. It becomes calmer and more confident. Its hyperactivity slightly decreases. It displays a lot of self-control and discipline. Continue feeding your dog with three to three and a half cups twice per day. It will be its constant adult diet. Vaccination against rabies is recommended and required by authorities at this age. Seniority Phase This is the last phase of German Shepherd development. It may seem wonderful, but your dog can continue to slightly grow. The phase is divided into two periods — early senior years old and late senior years old. Unfortunately, you need to focus on its health rather than on training. Such health issues as hip dysplasia, joint pain, and decreased stamina can appear at this age. You need to have consultations with your vet more often. During this period, your dog does not change its weight and height considerably. Though, you can observe slight changes in weight. On average, these dogs live years. You need to attend to their health and comfort. The dog may remain energetic and playful, but it slightly slows down. It wants to rest more and gets much calmer. The animal may suffer from some pains, so it may need pain relievers for spine and joint problems and arthritis. It may also need nutritional supplements and changes to its diet. Special senior and sensitive stomach food may become the best choice. Avoid jumping and hard playing. Continuous veterinary monitoring is needed if some symptoms are worsening. The accepted proportion that is considered ideal is .The weight is usually not taken into consideration. If your pet does not correspond to this proportion, there may be a health issue you do not know about yet. That is why you need to monitor the parameters carefully. To be sure that everything is OK, multiply the length of your dog by 0. You will get the perfect height. However, there can be some divergences. If they are minor, you have nothing to worry about. The German Shepherd is rather thin, or even skinny. This results in bad proportions. The ideal weight of your German Shepherd is lbs kg for males and lbs kg for females. You can get either a heavy or obese dog, and it can be a result of overfeeding or certain health issues. How to Check the Weight of Your German Shepherd The simplest method to see whether your dog is underweight is to check whether the ribs are visible on the sides. If you can see that the shape of your dog reminds you of a barrel on the ribs, it means that it is overweight. If you cannot feel the ribs, but there is too much skin on the sides, your dog is overweight. However, if you feel the ribs and only a thin layer of skin, it is underweight. It does not matter whether your dog is underweight or overweight. In any case, it can cause health problems if you do not repair the situation. The best way to succeed is to make changes to the diet. If your German Shepherd is underweight, you should enrich the content of its food. However, do not make it eat if the dog does not want to. That can lead to more severe problems. Make a slow transition to food with higher fat content. Or you may even give your dog puppy food because it is rich in nutrients. If your pet is obviously overweight, the best thing is to cut off the food. However, you also need to do it step by step so that the dog finally can eat just half of the amount you have recently fed it. The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder and an average weight of pounds kg. Nevertheless, some German Shepherds can grow bigger and even reach pounds kg. You need to be sure about its proportions though to understand if your pet meets the standards. If you see some deficiencies, meet your vet for a more thorough evaluation. When does a German Shepherd stop growing? German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years old. Females become adults when they are 2 years old. How tall is a German Shepherd? The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder. An average male reaches inches cm in height, while an average female should be inches cm tall. The body of both males and females should be longer than their height. How big do German Shepherds get? How much does a German Shepherd weight? In general, an average male reaches pounds kg in weight, while an average female should be pounds kg heavy. This is a very strong and brave dog that can become a perfect guardian and protector. If you decide to take a GS puppy, you need to follow its growth stages accurately to be sure that it develops properly. You should follow a high-quality diet, provide your dog with a lot of exercise, and ensure its proper training and socialization. Your German Shepherd cannot stay healthy and active if it gets some health problems related to its weight or height. Sometimes, these issues are not obvious and understandable to the owner. That is why it is important to know the main development parameters of your German Shepherd growth stages to cope with possible challenges. We hope that this article, together with the weight and height chart, will become your effective and helpful guide. 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. German Shepherd Development: From Puppies To Adults Posted on Last updated: Categories German Shepherds From early puppyhood to adulthood, German Shepherds undergo significant development that shapes their temperament, behavior, and physical abilities. As a dog owner, understanding the developmental stages of your German Shepherd is crucial to providing the right care and training. German Shepherd development consists of several stages. Hey there! As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site. Contents Final Thoughts German Shepherd Development and Growth Stages German Shepherd development refers to the physical, cognitive, and social changes that occur in German Shepherd puppies as they grow and mature into adulthood. These changes include the physical development of their muscles, bones, and organs, as well as their ability to learn and process information. Social development involves their ability to interact with other dogs and humans and to understand and follow social rules and norms. As a dog owner, it is important to understand the growth stages of your German Shepherd. Knowing what to expect during each stage can help you provide the best care for your furry friend. In the latter case, you need to know that the German Shepherd puppy depends on his mother for everything in these initial weeks. This includes food, warmth, and physical security. Here, your only responsibility is to make sure the dam is equipped with what she needs to fulfill her duties. As long as you feed the adult GSD right, she will be able to feed her babies and give them the warmth and company they need. You might notice that the puppies may seem asocial. Do not measure how the puppy interacts with other dogs for at least three to four weeks, which brings us to what you can expect within the next two weeks. This is where the puppy can wean off and not need a diet made up of milk exclusively. The puppy can consume solid food but is not too fond of it, especially if it is strange in texture. Your priority at this stage should be to get him to accept solid food without regressing to a diet of milk. There will be a social incentive in weaning off as the puppy will observe the litter he belongs to and notice a simultaneous change in feeding preferences. This brings us to a very important change: social interaction. I mentioned above that you should not worry about social disinterest up until the third week. However, by the fourth week, you should look for some interaction. If the puppy fails to acknowledge others in the litter or is getting shunned collectively, consulting an expert trainer or a vet can be helpful. Otherwise, the journey from being 4 weeks old to being adoption-ready is a long one, and it starts by accepting a human guardian. From weeks 4 to 5, the puppy is learning to accept a human usually the breeder as his guardian. Both dominant guardian and guiding guardian archetypes work in establishing yourself as the leader, but the dominant frame might box you into less palatable training tactics. German Shepherd puppies are quite intelligent, but a bulk of this cognitive ability is unlocked in two stages. The first is around the five-week mark. This could be the fourth or sixth week, depending on the individual puppy, but it is noticeable when the dog starts getting excited about other dogs. Of course, you need to be on schedule with socialization and carry-walks to notice this. Again, this explains why breeders usually keep the GSD puppies at this stage. Aggression issues can stem from excitement signaling menace. The opposite is true as well. Fortunately, professional breeders expose the dog to other dogs his age at this stage, and he learns to adjust how he shows and perceives excitement, making your life as a new German Shepherd parent much easier. But socializing your German Shepherd happens in stages as well. And of different ages. The wider the variety of people he gets to see and interact with at this stage, the more receptive he will be to people growing up. If your German Shepherd has seen only young people all his life, he might react differently to older ones and vice versa. This also applies to experiences. Exposing your puppy to experiences like car rides and ringing doorbells ensures that he will be calm in normal situations as he grows up. And in addition to getting your German Shepherd acquainted with normal stimuli like bells and travel, you must get him crate trained at this stage. Introducing the crate as a refuge and a secure spot as opposed to jail is a great way to get your GSD puppy to accept the crate. The more you delay this, the harder it becomes to crate-train a German Shepherd. If you want to check how his growth compares to the guidelines, head over to this article, When Do German Shepherds Stop Growing? This also includes a handy growth chart. This is a critical stage because if unchecked, your German Shepherd might end up hurting other dogs or be hurt by them. The watchful dog-parent in you that you were holding back has his chance to shine here. Make sure you keep a close eye on your German Shepherd and how he interacts with any other dogs in the house. The status-measuring step is one even adult dogs take when first interacting with each other. But at this age, dogs engage in prolonged status-measuring inquiry and either establish dominance or accept their subservient spot. You cannot force your German Shepherd to be the alpha in a relationship with another dog. GSDs are very physical, which is fine when two dogs play within the same breed. But if one of your doggos belongs to a relatively fragile lineage, you might want to consider some separation. If you are worried your German Shepherd playing too rough , click the link for some cool tips on how to limit rough play. The easier to walk your GSD is, the more enjoyable it will be for you both. This is better elaborated in my dedicated post on the fun exercises you can do with your German Shepherd puppy. At the same time, his physical energy levels are rising every day, which can be counterproductive as your German Shepherd can get uber-excited about physical activity. Make sure you have him on a no-pull harness instead of a collar-and-leash, so you can get him properly under control without hurting him. You can also see my other recommendations here. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. Almost Home Campaign Puppy Developmental Stages and Behaviour To have a well-adjusted and social dog, you need to ensure his needs are met during each phase of development. Building the foundation for a great dog starts with appropriate training at each stage of development and establishing appropriate guidelines so that that your puppy is properly integrated into the family. You will see many behaviour changes during the life stages of your pup. Knowing how to handle your pup through each developmental stage will help to shape your puppy into a lifelong family member. Puppy Developmental Stages The puppy development process covers five distinct stages. However, puppies grow through these stages at their own pace and these timelines can vary. Stage 1: Neonatal Period 0 — 2 weeks This is the first stage of puppy development and begins at birth. At this age, puppies only have the sense of taste and touch and rely totally on their mother. Stage 2: Transitional Period 2 — 4 weeks Sensory development continues with hearing and sense of smell. Puppy teeth start coming through and their eyes will begin to open. Puppies will interact with their litter mates, wag their tails, stand, walk a little and bark. It is vital to understand this stage as most puppies go home to their new parents between 7 — 12 weeks. During this period, changes start to occur rapidly. Between 3- 5 weeks puppies start to become aware of their surroundings and have the ability to develop a relationship with people This is the period where puppies get familiar with the day-to-day noises of a regular household such as TVs, vacuum cleaners, telephones, etc. At this age puppies are just learning to interact with each other and beginning to play. They are also learning their doggie social skills and exploring their ranking status within their pack. Their curiosity is developing, as are their biting skills. Nipping behaviours begin as they practice biting behaviour with their mother and litter mates. At the weeks stage, they will have full use of all their senses and will be ready to go home to their new owners. Bringing your pup home usually between weeks is right in the middle of his socialization period. Therefore, it is vital that you introduce your puppy to as many new dogs, people, objects and surroundings as you can. BUT, make sure you do so in a controlled manner and never put your puppy in a dangerous situation where they can be injured, scared or contract disease. This is a great period to begin crate training, for a variety of reasons. Puppies are old enough to start getting used to being left alone to avoid separation anxiety from developing and are capable of being house-trained. Even though your home is likely puppy proofed, it also saves your possessions. During this phase of development, puppies are developing their reactions to things much more consistently. They are also likely to focus more on different types of people and should be friendly and approachable to strangers. During this time they are also going to continue to practice their biting skills a whole lot more! It is important to learn how to manage this behaviour early on. You may also notice that they are more curious and will probably look to explore their environment more. Be prepared for this and keep your puppy close to you and leashed. Stage 4: Testing Period 3 — 6 months This is the time your puppy starts to test their boundaries within their world. They will test the limits with their owners and other animals. At this age many adult dogs will start to enforce manners. Problematic behaviours can begin to arise in this period. At this age your puppy is going to go through teething and chewing is a common side effect. Make sure he has plenty of chew sticks and toys. Use commercial sprays or gels that dissuade your puppy from chewing your belongings. Try soaking a cloth toy in chicken stock and freezing it if your puppy is experiencing pain while teething. Once frozen, this can be given to your puppy as a chew toy and will help to relieve sore gums. Puppies are usually finished teething by the age of 6 months when the upper fangs canines come in. Your cute little puppy is becoming a teenager and will start producing hormones which may result in changes in behaviour. Dogs go through adolescence much earlier than people; for small breeds, is can be as early as six months old while larger dogs starting at nine or 10 months of age. Adolescence in larger breed dogs continues until they are two or three years old with smaller dogs reaching maturity at about 18 months. Typically the larger the dog, the slower the development. Signs of Puberty in Canines Here are the typical signs to watch out for to tell you that your own puppy has hit puberty: Males.