do goldendoodle puppies shed their puppy coat

do goldendoodle puppies shed their puppy coat

Articles German Shepherds are considered the best working dogs around the world. Similarly, the Pomeranians are excellent working dogs and were initially bred as sled dogs. Imagine what will happen when we combine these two unrelated working buddies of dissimilar sizes to give a German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix. Also known as the Pomeranian Shepherd or the German Shepherd Pom, you will soon find out that this fluffy medium dog breed is adorable and playful despite being loud and aggressive. In this article, I will let you know about the world of these fun-loving buddies, and I will let you know about their life span, their temperaments, and how to take care of them. German Shepherd Pomeranian Mixes can grow up to 15 inches tall. The average height they can reach is 12 inches tall and is expectedly bigger than that of a Pomeranian but less than that of a German Shepherd. For their weight, a German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix can weigh between 15 to 20 lbs. Hence, this mixed breed falls under the medium-sized dog breed category, and its size will lie between a German Shepherd and a Pomeranian. In other words, the weight of a German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix is often greater than that of a Pomeranian. However, it is also less than that of a mature German Shepherd. So if you are looking for a miniature-sized pooch that looks like a German Shepherd, you should go for a German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix. In addition, it is for this reason that a Pomeranian is never used as the female when breeding a German Shepherd Pom. This is because the female Pomeranian will not be able to carry the weight of many German Shepherd Pom puppies. Image from Instagram: princesspommom Physical Appearance The physical appearance of German Shepherd Poms depends on the characteristics they inherited from their parents. Their coat color and patterns also depend on this. If their fluffy coat is well inherited from their German Shepherd parent, their coat appears smoother and less fluffy. However, if their fluffy coat is inherited from their Pomeranian parents, they have a more fluffy and long coat. For their coat color, if it is inherited from a German Shepherd, it will be tan, sable, dark red, or black. On the other hand, if their coat color is inherited from a Pomeranian, it will appear red, orange, cream, sable, or black. German Shepherd Pomeranian Mixes typically can live between 12 to 14 years. During their lifespan, they may get affected by common health issues that will impact their quality of life. Here are some common health issues affecting this mixed breed. Collapsed Trachea Some canines are genetically susceptible to collapsed trachea. Since a genetic factor is involved, a German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix will likely get affected. When it does happen, the tracheal rings of cartilage that support your doggie windpipe become slack, and it collapses. Hence, your furry friend finds it difficult to breathe. It is accompanied by a lack of strength and reduced stamina because the heart can not pump enough blood to the tissues. Faulty heart valves, like the mitral valves, are the major cause of this disease. Another cause of this disease is irregular heart rhythm and narrowing blood vessels. In a situation where you observe your furry friend coughing persistently, you should consult your veterinarian. Diabetes Diabetes affects dogs, especially German Shepherd Poms. It influences how their body uses glucose for energy. It occurs when there is no glucose-insulin connection in the body. This may be due to insufficient insulin production or resistance to the insulin produced. Some of the symptoms are increased thirst, increased urination, weight loss, and increased appetite. However, it can still be managed by visiting your veterinarian if you observe that your canine buddy has any of these symptoms. Other health issues affecting German Shepherd Poms to note are hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, and cataracts. Due to their high-energy nature, taking care of the German Shepherd Poms requires proper nutrition, sufficient exercise, and the use of dental water additives to keep them in good health. Exercise Routine We recommend at least 30 minutes of exercise for your German Shepherd Pom every day. This can be in the form of a slight jog and walk in between. If the exercise will take longer than 45 minutes, ensure that your canine buddy has breaks to regain its energy. Alternatively, there are canine games your furry friend can participate in canine games, such as ball fetching and weave pole exercise for sprinting. To strengthen your German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix hip muscles, we also recommend that you include 5 to 10 minutes of canine squats daily in your exercise routine. This canine squat exercise is good for preventing hip dysplasia. Food containing meats, vegetables, fruits, and grains provides your canine buddy with a wholesome diet. Most commercial dog foods meet this requirement. More so, they are approved by the American College of Veterinary Nutrition as a safe and healthy option for feeding pets. One such example we recommend is the Pet Plate. It is made with human-grade ingredients and supplies your canine buddy with a balanced diet containing proteins, multivitamins, and minerals. Many of these things are harmful and can cause infections in the mouth and plague the teeth of your doggie. Having your canine buddy wash their mouth and brush their teeth with dental water additives kills these germs and prevents the growth of plagues on their teeth. For this reason, we recommend using dental water additives for the safe oral health of your dear buddy. Ideally, you should brush the teeth of your canine buddy every day. With a barking tendency, the German Shepherd Poms are an ideal candidate for being a watchdog and can alert their owners of any intruders. But do they show any aggression towards such intruders? Aggressive Yes, the German Shepherd Pomeranian Mixes display moderate aggression, especially towards strangers who intrude their living spaces or the house. They can be aggressive towards strangers and those whom they are not familiar with. Early socialization training is required for this mixed breed, especially when there are children in the household. Image from Instagram: finnthedawgg Separation Anxiety Just like their parents, the German Shepherd Poms can deeply suffer from separation anxiety when left unattended for more than 6 hours. Leaving them alone for a long time causes them to be frightened. Hence, they show destructive behaviors such as tearing shoes apart, chewing furniture foams, and barking aggressively. There are many reasons why your Pomeranian Shepherd can suffer from separation anxiety, some reasons include a change in its owner, a transition into a new home from a shelter home, or the loss of one of its loved relatives. There are many treatments for separation anxiety. For instance, rewarding your canine buddy with a special treat just before you leave the house will make it get excited, especially when it sees you leaving. This is because it knows it will have a special reward. Letting your canine buddy have its room and teaching it to be alone even when you are at home will also help in curbing its separation anxiety. Involving your pooch in crate games and exercises can relieve its stress and may help with separation anxiety. Having your pooch in dog day care centers or taken care of by a dog sitter in your absence will also relieve its stress. Though it takes time for your dog to learn to be alone, alternatively, using the above treatment options will enable it to better adjust to its new lifestyle. Besides being loud and aggressive, German Shepherd Poms can be thought to be fun-loving, playful, energetic, and courageous. Be it indoors or outdoors, and you will definitely be enjoying every moment and interaction with this mixed breed. They replace their coats seasonally, twice a year. To keep your German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix clean and have a shiny-looking coat all through the year, you should brush, trim, and wash its coat on a regular basis. Hypoallergenic The German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix is not considered to be hypoallergenic due to its moderate shedding levels. Therefore, to reduce its shedding levels, its coat should be brushed 3 to 4 times every week and trimmed once every six weeks to retain its shape and fluffiness. Grooming Having grooming tools keep their coat length moderate and clean. A clean-looking German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix is the goal of every pet parent. This tool is safe on the skin of your German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix, gently rolling to remove any loose hair and trimming off excessive hairs. Removes loose hair: reaches through the topcoat to remove loose undercoat hair without cutting skin or damaging the.FURejector button: just push the button to release hair with ease. Check Price on Amazon Bathing In addition to brushing and trimming your furry friend, you should also bathe them with the appropriate shampoo products. The product is specially formulated using oatmeal as an active ingredient to prevent itching and irritation on sensitive and dry skin. Because of its rarity, German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix is considerably expensive. However, if you choose to adopt it, you should expect its price to be much lower. Yes, a German Shepherd can breed with a Pomeranian. However, as both breeds greatly differ in size, crossbreeding is a challenging process. During the breeding process, do ensure that the German Shepherd is the female and the Pomeranian is the male. This will enable her to carry the German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix puppies. Alternatively, artificial insemination serves as a safe method for crossbreeding. Yes, a German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix can swim just like how both their parents, the German Shepherd and the Pomeranian, are great swimmers. However, you should never leave them to swim unsupervised. Always be there to guide and play with them during swimming. What is a Pomeranian German Shepherd Mix? However, this hybrid is definitely a very recent development. The first designer breed, the Labradoodle , emerged in .Since then, people have been captivated by creating new designer breeds. These crossbreeds are often very cute, but there is a deep concern among animal welfare professionals that this trend is not a good thing. Designer Dogs -What's the Problems For example, puppy mills take advantage of this consumer craze and flooding the market with puppies that were created in squalid, inhumane conditions. Many puppy mill puppies are riddled with health issues and temperament problems due to poor breeding practices. However, people are so desperate to have these fashionable puppies that they buy them anyway. There is also a real concern that people will get tired of these puppies after the craze dies down. However, unlike a fashion item or a tech gadget that can be cast aside, these dogs will end up neglected or abandoned. This scenario has already played out with other breeds that became wildly popular for a short period of time. A few years after the trend fades away, thousands of dogs end up unwanted in animal shelters. If you are considering getting one of these dogs, please think hard and long about this decision. Keep in mind that this is a living creature, and if you get one, you must commit to loving it and caring for it for its whole life. Also please make sure that you get one from an ethical source and you are not supporting a cruel and exploitative industry by putting money into a puppy mill. We will talk more about how to acquire a dog from a responsible source later in the article. The GSD was developed in Germany to herd and guard sheep. Today, German Shepherds are primarily kept as companions, but some are still used for working purposes including herding, protection, and scent work. German Shepherds are often used by the police force and the military. Some are even used as service dogs for people with disabilities. German Shepherds require a lot of exercise, training and mental stimulation. They are not the best dogs for novice dog owners. They do best with experienced handlers who can channel their energy into constructive outlets. Check out this article for more information about the German Shepherd Temperament. Meet the Pomeranian The Pomeranian, on the other hand, is a very different type of dog. Pomeranians originated in Europe for the sole purpose of companionship. Pomeranians were popular lap dogs for European royalty. These dogs are loving, joyful, playful, and cuddly. They love to be near people at all times. They do not require an excessive amount of exercise, and they usually do fine in city apartments. On the downside, Pomeranians are known for being vocal, anxious and hard to housetrain. You can learn more about Pomeranians in this article about the Pomeranian temperament. As you can see, Pomeranians and German Shepherds have very different temperaments. Therefore, there can be a lot of variability in the traits of German Shepherd Pomeranian mixes. In general, German Pomeranians tend to be intelligent, active, alert, lively and loyal. They have fluffy coats and they definitely shed a lot! These dogs are usually medium-sized, although their height and weights can vary widely. German Shepherd Pomeranian mix colors are likewise highly variable. They can be black, tan, red, brown, or a combination of these. Their coats are usually thick, and they require a lot of grooming. We will talk more about German Shepherd Pomeranian grooming in the next section. Grooming This is a breed that has a lot of hair and requires a lot of grooming. You will need to stock up on basic grooming supplies such as combs, brushes, nail trimmers, wipes and scissors. Brushing your Pomeranian German Shepherd mix every day is a must. This helps to prevent the coat from matting. You will also need to take your Pomeranian German Shepherd mix to a professional groomer a few times per year for a haircut. Otherwise, the coat will become extremely tangled and dirty. Shedding Does the German Shepherd Pomeranian mix shed? Yes, this hybrid is definitely a shedder! Both the German Shepherd and the Pomeranian are known for shedding heavily throughout the year—especially during shedding season. You should invest in a very good vacuum cleaner! If you are not a fan of dog fur in your house, this mix is probably not the right dog for you. No, this mix is not hypoallergenic. If you are looking for a breed that is hypoallergenic, check out this article for a list of hypoallergenic dog breeds. German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix Training If you are thinking about getting one of these dogs, you are probably wondering what is the best way to train your German Shepherd Pomeranian mix? Research shows that positive reinforcement training is the most effective and humane form of obedience training. If possible, sign up for a positive reinforcement obedience class or puppy socialization class in your area. Classes are a great way for your dog to be exposed to other dogs in a safe, supervised setting. Once you have gone through basic obedience, there are endless opportunities for more advanced activities with your German Shepherd Pomeranian mix. For example, you can try out agility, nosework, rally obedience, and much more! This online resource has hundreds of fun informative dog training videos that can help you learn the basics and more. Luckily, mixed breed dogs tend to be a bit healthier since they come from a larger gene pool. However, it is still a good idea to be familiar with the genetic health conditions that are common in German Shepherds and Pomeranians. Talk with your vet about the symptoms and treatments for the following conditions:. Photo by wearesunnycoco IG Authorized and reputable breeders of Pomeranian German Shepherd mix puppies are hard to come by, especially in the United States. Aside from the controversies about intentional crossbreeding, many breeders are discouraged from producing German Shepherd Pomeranians because of the difficulty in making them. Luckily, there are still some reputable places where you can find German Shepherd Pomeranian puppies for sale: Puppies. You can find the essential information about their puppies on their website, including the puppy prices. Petango — Petango is one of the largest pet advertising websites in the United States. Their website contains comprehensive details about the puppies on their listings. You can also use their filter feature to find the nearest German Shepherd Pomeranian puppy for sale near your area. PuppySpot — This online pet website lists hundreds of purebred and mixed-breed dogs, including the German Pom. You can also try your chances on Pomeranian and German Shepherd breeders. They may be producing this mix from time to time. You should check out their website as they regularly update their listings. They are a foster-based rescue that provides medical and emotional support to the dogs they rescue. You might luckily find a German Shepherd Pomeranian mix in their listings. Aside from the rescues listed above, you can also review our directory of German Shepherd and Pomeranian rescues. But before you do, read our ultimate dog adoption guide first! Before taking home a Pomeranian German Shepherd mix, you should first know all of these so you can weigh if it is the right dog for you. Here are some of the pros of owning a German Shepherd Pomeranian mix: Unique appearances: German Sheperd Pomeranian mixes truly have astonishing appearances. They can come in different coat colors, and they can boast the unique features of their parent breeds, such as the German Shepherd mask and the Pomeranian mane. Highly intelligent hybrids: Because of their innate intelligence, German Pomeranian mixes are not that difficult to train. They also love pleasing and obeying their owners. Good family dogs: Properly socialized German Shepherd Pomeranians can get along pretty well with children and other pets. They are also good watchdogs because of their vigilant and watchful traits. Meanwhile, here are some of the cons of owning German Shepherd Pomeranian mixes: Unpredictable growth: Since this hybrid is relatively new, no established growth guide is available yet. Hence, the growth of a German Sheperd Pomeranian is very difficult to predict and monitor. Not suitable for people with allergies: German Sheperd Pomeranians have double coats, which they shed throughout the year. They also blow their undercoats heavily twice when the season changes. Tend to bark a lot: Unfortunately, German Pomeranians tend to bark a lot. They howl and bark more frequently than other dogs. Highly energetic: If you are a busy person, the German Shepherd Pomeranian mix might not be the right dog for you. This hybrid requires regular exercise and stimulation. If you think that the pros of owning a German Shepherd Pomeranian mix outweigh the cons, nothing should stop you from taking home one. However, I also suggest that you assess first whether your bank can shoulder the financial responsibility of owning this hybrid dog. You should know that having a dog as a pet is a lifetime commitment. Are you considering adding a unique and exciting pet to your family, like the German Shepherd Pomeranian mix? This rare designer breed blends the bold characteristics of two popular purebred dogs into one package. Understanding the Pomeranian German Shepherd Mix Diving into the world of hybrid dog breeds can be quite fascinating, especially when dealing with a unique mix like the Pomeranian German Shepherd. This rare combination results from artificially inseminating a female GSD with a male Pomeranian, due to the size disparity between these two purebred breeds. The resulting breed embodies characteristics from both parent breeds, presenting potential owners with an intelligent, alert and active canine companion. Because this crossbreed is not common in nature, it may prove difficult and expensive to acquire one owing to demand exceeding supply — sparking concerns about unethical breeding practices at puppy mills. Just like any pet adoption process, commitment to lifelong care for your furry friend should take precedence over novelty or aesthetics. Origin of Pomeranians Pomeranians, a purebred breed recognized by the American Kennel Club AKC , have an intriguing history dating back to the 15th century. Towards the late 19th century, these endearing dogs made their way to America where they quickly became a favored pet breed among dog lovers across the nation. Their distinct appearance and charming temperament endeared them to all who encountered them. Over years ago, these dogs were meticulously developed for their exceptional herding and guarding capacities. As versatile workers, they swiftly gained recognition for their intelligence and strength. These esteemed traits extended beyond the pastures, finding use in various roles such as police work and search-and-rescue missions. Their popularity spread globally, solidifying them as one of the most loved breeds today. Characteristics of Pomeranian German Shepherd Mix Breed Pomeranian GSD mixes are medium-sized dogs with a mix of traits from both parent breeds, including an attractive appearance and a friendly temperament. Appearance and Size The German Shepherd Pomeranian mix is an enchanting designer breed that combines the distinct characteristics of both its parent breeds. With the signature pointy ears and upright posture inherited from the German Shepherd dog, paired with the small size and thick double coat reminiscent of the Pomeranian, they are undeniably eye-catching. Their coats can be straight or curly and come in various colors such as black, white, and brown. The unique appearance of these mixed-breed dogs is sure to turn heads wherever they go. Temperament German Shepherd Pomeranian mixes have a wide range of temperaments, as they inherit traits from both parent breeds. Generally, German Pomeranians are intelligent, active, alert, lively, and loyal dogs. They are known for their playful nature and enjoy being the center of attention. These mixed breed dogs often display a strong sense of loyalty towards their families and can be protective when it comes to guarding their loved ones. Despite their small size compared to purebred GSDs, these mixes can still possess some herding instincts and may try to round up family members or other pets. Common Health Issues The German Shepherd Pomeranian mix dog is generally a healthy breed, but there are some common health issues that potential owners should be aware of. These include: Hip Dysplasia: This is a genetic condition where the hip joint is improperly formed, leading to arthritis and pain. It can cause lameness and difficulty in walking. Luxating Patellas: This condition occurs when the kneecap slips out of place, causing discomfort and difficulty in walking. It can range from mild to severe and may require surgery. Degenerative Myelopathy: This is a progressive disease that affects the spinal cord and leads to weakness and paralysis in the hind legs. It is more common in older dogs. Hypothyroidism: This condition occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, which can lead to weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems. Epilepsy: Some Pomeranian and German Shepherd mixes may be prone to seizures due to an inherited neurological disorder. Medication can help control seizures in most cases. Dental Disease: Both German Shepherds and Pomeranians are prone to dental issues such as gum disease and tooth decay. Regular dental care, including brushing their teeth, is essential for their overall health. Lifespan The German Shepherd and Pomeranian mix has an average lifespan of 10—14 years. By providing them with a balanced diet, regular exercise, grooming, and veterinary check-ups, you can give your furry friend the best chance at living a long and healthy life. So make sure to take good care of your Pomeranian GSD mix, so they can enjoy many happy years by your side! Training and Exercise Needs of Pomeranian GSD Mix To ensure a well-behaved and physically fit Pomeranian Shepherd, consistent training using positive reinforcement techniques is essential along with regular exercise to meet their high energy needs. Training Techniques Here are some training techniques that can help you in successfully training your dog: Start early: Begin training your German Shepherd Pom mix as soon as you bring them home. This will help establish a strong foundation for their obedience and behavior. Consistency: Be consistent in your training methods and commands. Use the same cues and gestures every time you want your dog to perform a specific action or behavior. Rewards-based training: Use treats, praise, and rewards to reinforce positive behaviors. Rewarding your dog for following commands will motivate them to repeat the desired actions. Short training sessions: Keep the training sessions short and focused, as Pomeranian German Shepherd mixes have shorter attention spans. Aim for minute sessions multiple times throughout the day rather than one long session. Socialization: Expose your Pomeranian Shepherd to different people, animals, environments, and situations from an early age. This will help them develop confidence and prevent behavioral issues. Basic commands: Teach basic commands such as sit, stay, come, down, and leave it using consistent cues and hand signals. Leash training: Practice leash walking with your German Shepherd and a Pomeranian mix to ensure they walk calmly on a leash without pulling or reacting to distractions. Positive reinforcement only: Avoid using punishment or harsh methods during training as it can cause fear or anxiety in your dog and hinder their progress. Exercise Requirements German Shepherd Pomeranian mixes are active and energetic dogs that require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Here are some key points to remember when it comes to their exercise needs: Daily exercise: Aim for at least one hour of exercise each day to keep your German Shepherd Pomeranian mix physically and mentally stimulated. Physical activities: Engage in activities like brisk walks, jogging, or running together. These high-energy dogs will benefit from vigorous exercise sessions. Mental stimulation: Besides physical exercise, provide mental stimulation with puzzle toys, obedience training, or interactive games to prevent boredom. Playtime: Allow them ample playtime in a safe and enclosed space. Fetch, tug-of-war, and hide-and-seek are great ways to keep them entertained. Training classes: Consider enrolling your German Shepherd Pomeranian mix in obedience classes or agility training. This not only adds variety but also helps channel their intelligence and energy in positive ways. Socialization: Regularly expose your dog to different environments, people, and animals from a young age. This promotes good behavior and helps prevent behavioral issues. Weather considerations: Be mindful of weather conditions when planning outdoor activities. Extreme heat or cold can be uncomfortable for these dogs due to their double coat. If they appear tired or show signs of exhaustion, take a break and provide plenty of water for hydration. Consistency: Establish a routine for exercising your German Shepherd Pomeranian mix, as consistency is key for their physical health and overall well-being. Grooming and Care for German Shepherd with a Pomeranian Mix Grooming and care for a German Shepherd and Pomeranian mix is essential to maintain their healthy coat and overall well-being. Regular brushing is necessary to prevent matting and reduce shedding, especially during seasonal changes. Shedding and Coat Care The Pomeranian Shepherd is known for its thick coat, which requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and manageable. Shedding is a common occurrence with this breed mix, so owners should be prepared for some extra cleaning around the house. Regular brushing sessions can help minimize shedding by removing loose hairs and prevent matting. Diet and Nutrition Proper diet and nutrition play a crucial role in the health and well-being of your Pomeranian German Shepherd mix. These hybrid dogs have specific dietary needs that should be met to keep them healthy and happy. As an active breed, they require high-quality dog food that is rich in protein to support their energy levels. Regular feedin g schedules with portion control are recommended to prevent obesity, as this can lead to various health issues such as joint problems. Consult your veterinarian to determine the best diet plan for your German Pomeranian based on their age, activity level, and any specific dietary requirements they may have due to potential health concerns like hip dysplasia or hypothyroidism. By providing them with the right nutrition, you can ensure they thrive both physically and mentally. German Pomeranian can make excellent family dogs due to their affectionate and loyal nature, as well as their potential for being good with children and other pets. Compatibility with Children and Other Pets German Shepherd Pomeranian mixes are generally compatible with children and other pets, making them great additions to family households. Due to their friendly and sociable nature, they often form strong bonds with children and enjoy playtime together. When properly socialized from a young age, these mixed breeds can get along well with other pets in the household, including cats and smaller dogs. Remember that proper training and positive reinforcement techniques will contribute to a harmonious environment between your German Shepherd Pomeranian mix and your family members or furry companions. Adoption and Rescue Options Adopting a German Pomeranian is possible through various rescue centers and animal shelters. They have a network of foster homes where you can find a loving companion. Although they primarily deal with purebred Pomeranians, they occasionally have Pomeranian mixes available for adoption. Websites such as Petfinder. You can filter your search criteria to find specific breeds or mixes like the German Shepherd Pomeranian mix. This guarantees that you are getting a well-bred puppy with proper care and socialization. Reputable breeders prioritize the overall welfare of their dogs and conduct necessary health tests to minimize genetic issues. While the initial costs may be higher compared to other designer breeds, choosing a reputable breeder ensures that you are making a long-term investment in a healthy and happy companion. Websites like Puppies. Remember, when bringing home your new furry friend, always pick quality over convenience or cost-cutting measures! Estimated Costs The cost of owning a healthy German Shepherd Pomeranian puppy can vary depending on various factors. Additionally, there are initial expenses to consider when bringing home your new furry friend. Are you ready to handle the high-energy levels and exercise needs of a Pomeranian German Shepherd mix? Pros Cons A German Pomeranian can exhibit a blend of the intelligence and loyalty of the German Shepherd and the affectionate and playful nature of the Pomeranian. Acquiring a German Pomeranian can be difficult, expensive, and controversial due to concerns about unethical breeding practices and puppy mills. These hybrids can potentially be adapted to a variety of living situations — from apartments to houses with yards, given the right amount of exercise and mental stimulation. The breed is not officially recognized by major kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club, which can bring legitimacy and health concerns. If socialized and trained correctly, they can get along well with children and other pets, making them a potential choice for families. The differing temperaments of the parent breeds can make the Pomeranian German Shepherd mix a wildcard — they can be loving and playful, or perhaps vocal and anxious. With the right care and regular vet visits, these dogs can lead a healthy life. They are prone to certain genetic health problems inherited from their parent breeds, necessitating regular vet visits and preventive care. They can make great companions for experienced dog owners who can manage their exercise and training needs. German Shepherds are not recommended for novice dog owners due to their high exercise, training, and mental stimulation needs. To Sum Up In conclusion, the Pomeranian Shepherd is a unique and fascinating hybrid breed that combines the intelligence and athleticism of the German Shepherd with the compact size and charm of the Pomeranian. However, potential owners must be aware of the challenges associated with acquiring this rare breed and ensure they are committed to providing lifelong care for their furry companion. By choosing a reputable breeder or considering adoption from rescue groups, you can give these special dogs a loving forever home. 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. Lifespan Sociability Generally speaking, crossbred dogs are less expensive than pure breeds. On top of this, German Pomeranians are a relatively new and unknown breed. Because both parents command a high price, German Pomeranians do as well. These pups need lots of exercise and space, therefore it is probably best you have a yard. It is also important to be able to spend time with your dog, so consider things carefully before choosing a breed. The Pomeranian parent must be male. The strangest thing about this crossbreed is the massive size difference between the parents. There can be more than an pound difference in weight between German Shepherds and Pomeranians. So, how exactly do they breed? The Pomeranian must be male. A Pomeranian male can mate with a female German Shepherd, even though the logistics still seem a little off. The Pomeranian is likely to die from the attempt. They can be difficult to housebreak. You can get puppies from the same litter that take after different parents. Both parents were bred to work. Most people know that German Shepherds were bred to work. But fewer people know that the Pomeranian was also bred to be a working dog. Pomeranians are part of the Spitz family of dogs, which includes canines like Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes. But Pomeranians were thrust into prominence when Queen Charlotte got two of them in the 18th century. German Shepherds are known as some of the most easy-going and laidback dogs of all time. These dogs are joyous, loving, loyal, and endlessly happy. Are These Dogs Good for Families? A few of these dogs might bond closely with just one person, but most German Poms are going to bond with every member of the family. Your German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix is unlikely to chase or attack smaller dogs. German Poms are often filled with more confidence than their little bodies can hold, which often results in them acting much larger than they are. Of course, with proper socialization starting at an early age, your German Pomeranian should be able to get along great with just about everyone. They need a lot of exercise. Try a toy specifically for mental stimulation to help with boredom. But this will be dependent on which parent they take after more. If your dog takes after the Shepherd side more, then their coat will be shorter and easier to care for. These dogs will only need to be brushed once or twice a week with occasional baths thrown in when necessary. For German Pomeranians that take after the Pom side more, you can expect to spend twice as much time grooming at least. These pups will have tons of hair that will need brushing nearly every day. Forgo the brushing and you can expect a matted, tangled dog. And these dogs shed quite a bit as well. In the case of German Shepherds and Pomeranians, the list of health problems that are commonly associated with these breeds is extremely long. Minor Conditions Luxating Patella : Simply put, a luxating patella is a kneecap that can move out of place. If you see these signs, you ought to have your German Pom checked out just to be safe. Serious Conditions Hip Dysplasia : This is one of the most common health conditions that faces dogs today, particularly large breeds. German Shepherds are known to be highly vulnerable to hip dysplasia. Because of this, they rub together, causing pain, limiting motion, and eventually resulting in lameness. Elbow Dysplasia : Similar to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia is when the elbow joint grows incorrectly, resulting in pain and limited motion. It results in unprovoked seizures that can happen at any time. Given the numbers above, it can be assumed that a Pomeranian German Shepherd cross would fall somewhere in the middle of the two breeds in terms of size and weight. Females GSD Pom mixes can be expected to stand around 14 — 17 inches tall and weigh between 26 — 39 pounds. Whereas males can be expected to stand between 15 — 19 inches tall and weigh between 34 — 49 pounds. Coat German Shepherds have a double coat of medium to long fur with an undercoat. The Pomeranian is also a double-coated breed with an undercoat; however, their fur is longer and fluffier. Accordingly, the coat of a Pomeranian GSD mix will largely depend on which parent the pup takes after. If the pup takes after their GSD parent their coat will be smoother whereas if they take after their Pomeranian parent, their coat will be longer and have more fluff. This mix will shed year-round. If they take after the GSD parent they are more likely to be sable, black and tan, all black, blue, or liver. Whereas, if they take after their Pomeranian parent they can be, red, orange, cream, sable, black, tri-colored, brown, or blue. Grooming The grooming needs of a GSD Pomerania mix will be a little more involved, especially if the pup takes after their Pomeranian parent. Between grooming visits, they should be brushed twice weekly, and their face should be cleaned at least every other day, as they are prone to get eye stains. Teeth cleaning and nail clipping requirement are in the same frequency as any other dog. Since German Shepherd Pomeranian mixes will have erect ears , they should be cleaned once a month, and more often if they are prone to ear infections. Strength As larger more muscular dogs German Shepherds are definitely stronger than the Pomeranian. German Shepherds have a bite force of around psi whereas Pomeranians bite force has not been documented. One could expect a mix between these breeds to lead to a medium-sized dog of average strength with a bite force ranging somewhere in the mid s. Speed German Shepherds have been documented to run at a top speed of up to 30 miles per hour. The Pomeranian being smaller obviously runs slower at speeds of up to 12 miles per hour. A mix between these breeds would likely result in a dog that runs at speeds between 19 — 21 miles per hour. Exercise Requirement Although German Shepherds and Pomeranians are energetic dogs, a mix between these two will be easier to manage exercise wise. Thirty to forty minutes of exercise a day should be sufficient for a German Shepherd Pomeranian mix. However, monitor your dog as this can vary from dog to dog. If you find your dog is starting to exhibit some destructive behaviors you may need to increase their daily physical activity. Since both Pomeranians and German Shepherds are really smart , a mix from these breeds will also benefit from engaging their minds regularly. This can be done with puzzle toys and learning new tricks. Trainability Both German Shepherds and Pomeranians are very trainable , meaning a mix between the two will be trainable as well. German Shepherds rank as the 3rd most intelligent dog breed, and Pomeranians rank as 23rd most intelligent dog breed. Accordingly, a Pomeranian German Shepherd mixed breed would be a dog of excellent intelligence making for a very trainable dog. Temperament German Shepherd Pomeranian mixes are fun-natured, active dogs with a spunky unique personality. Expect this dog to be vocal and like to bark, whine and maybe even howl. With proper socialization and training, this dog can be friendly with both their family as well as people outside their circle. You will need to focus on socialization around other pets from a young age, as sometimes these dogs can be less friendly with larger dogs and animals as they feel threatened because of their size. These dogs are better with older children but can be trained on how to interact with younger children if that is needed. Overall, these dogs will have a confident eager to please attitude and will show their family lots of love and affection. Health The Pomeranian German Shepherd cross can be prone to hypothyroidism, diabetes, cataracts, collapsed trachea, and congestive heart failure most commonly. All dogs have genetic predispositions to certain ailments, however, having a good vet and going to regular visits helps catch any potential problems that may arise early enough for them to be addressed. Lifespan Pomeranian typically live between 12 to 16 years, while German Shepherds tend to live between 12 to 14 years. A cross between these two would most likely have an average lifespan around 13 to 15 years. It is important to remember that the best way to increase the odds of your dog living longer is to provide them with a healthy lifestyle containing high-quality dog food and regular exercise and vet visits. The AKC only maintains a registry of purebreds. German Shepherd Pomeranian mixes are very rare and so are not very popular. Usually, this mix is a result of an accidental mating situation. However, there are some breeders that are intentionally mating these two breeds via artificial insemination to create this dog. When this occurs, the female is usually the German Shepherd and the male is usually the Pomeranian for safety since the size of the puppies may be too large for the tiny Pom to carry to term. Final Thoughts The German Shepherd Pomeranian mix is a medium-sized dog with a fun-loving spunky temperament. They are extremely intelligent, easy to train, and loyal to their family. This mix needs proper socialization and training to be well balanced around other dogs, small children, and strangers. The mix of these two breeds are opposites in so many ways but they make up for it by being a harmonious blend whose personality traits range from active to stable! The German Shepherd is a popular breed, ranking second in the world. However, it does not hold that position for long when compared to other breeds like Pomeranians who are the 23rd most common according to The AKC rankings! When it comes to personality, the German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix is a cuddly animal. They have so much fur and are typically very friendly with everyone they meet! German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix is a man-made creation that cannot occur naturally. To make this designer dog, you have to fertilize the female with sperm from another species of a small breed like Poms or Gizmos; however, it is illegal for them to receive gametes outside their own kind breed. The process does not work vice versa because if there was no artificial intervention then these large puppies would never exist! They might be more expensive than purebreds too. Pomeranian and German Shepherd Mix are so popular because they have a friendly demeanor, above-average intelligence for canines, and an easy-going personality. Intersections of breeds are usually safe, but veterinary experts are deeply concerned that this practice may not be safe for animals. It might be difficult for your puppy to understand you but with love and affection they can learn better than others. Do You Love Reading Ebooks? A male German Shepherd will not mate with a female Pom, but the reverse situation may end in tragedy for both parties involved with this experiment gone wildly wrong! They may find it challenging to get into the house: Designer breeds like the German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix are unpredictable. You will not have invented it from the small body structure, but this model weighed over 30 pounds [30 kg] when used to trailer snowboards in frosty weather! Their height varies depending on their parentage. Pomeranian and German Shepherd Mix can be either medium to large in size with the larger specimens weighing anywhere around lbs. The height varies depending on whether they take after their Shetland Sheepdog or Pomeranian parent, but it is usually not too much taller than 15 inches at the shoulder. Height: This breed is less than normal tall in height. A male dog is 7 — 12 inches tall whereas the female dog has the similar height to the male breed. Weight: The German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix has some variations in weight depending on diet and nutrition provided. The normal weight seen until now is lbs. Lifespan: Their expected life duration or time is years. These dogs are trusted and happy companions. They can even smile moodily like their adorable faces would suggest — but only if they inherit some of that joyousness from both parents which is most likely! German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix comes with endless happiness and can be taught to do tricks! The reason why so many folks love owning one? It comes down largely due to their wonderful temperaments which include strong loyalty towards family members. These dogs are like gentle warriors, always ready to fight for their owners. Pomeranian and German Shepherd Mix are not as high-strung or intense as their more doglike parents. Can families adopt these dogs? This small yet lively breed can be found bonding closely with their human companions in many different ways; some might only bond with one person while others could easily become best friends with every member of your household! A few tiny Pommy buddies may like to stay close by you on Allen factions though most will prefer interacting through play , making this furry friend perfect for families looking forward to having kids around too. .Can this dog get along well with other pets? The German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix is an energetic, bold breed that loves to explore the world. However, this pup needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation because they can be quite dominant around other dogs — even if yours are bigger! With its friendly demeanor and gentle nature, the Pomeranian is a great choice for families with children or other dogs. The German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix is not one of the larger breeds, but they still have an abundance to offer. These dogs are always on their feet and will do anything for some playtime or activity time — even if it means running around like crazy! Necessary Trainings: Pomeranian and German Shepherd Mix are the perfect choices for those who want a highly intelligent, but also easy-to-train pet. They have an excellent sense of smell and hearing which will benefit their human companions greatly in any kind of profession where these skills come into play! However this will depend on which parent they take after more: if your dog takes after Shepherd side with its short coat then these little dogs only need to be timely brushed one or two times a week while regular baths can fit perfectly well into their schedule too! Some scientists argue Pomeranian and German Shepherd Mix breeds suffer from just as many genetic diseases as purebreds. However further study has shown low numbers in certain breeds skew results when looking at hip dysplasia rates which makes it difficult for us to get accurate information about what type or combination may lead an animal into difficulty later on down the road with their mobility; therefore preventing any unnecessary pain and suffering! Final Thoughts German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix — Breeding Mixed breeds have become increasingly popular in recent years as people look for dogs that combine the best qualities of different breeds. One mixed breed that has gained a lot of attention is the German Shepherd Pomeranian mix. As the name suggests, this mixed breed is a cross between a German Shepherd and a Pomeranian. This mix was first bred in the United States in the s and has since become a popular choice for families looking for a loyal and loving pet. While mixed breeds can sometimes be unpredictable in terms of personality and physical appearance, this mix is generally considered to be a good-natured and even-tempered dog. These dogs typically stand between 18 and 22 inches tall and weigh between 35 and 60 pounds. These pups have a thick, fluffy coat that can be straight or curly. The most common coat colors are black, white, and brown, but there is a wide range of colors and patterns that these pups can come in. One of the most distinctive features of this mixed breed is their curled tail. This tail is covered in the same fluffy coat as the rest of their body and gives them a playful and friendly appearance. While they may be small, these pups are full of energy and love to play. If you are looking for a fluffy little companion to add to your family, the German Shepherd Pomeranian mix is the perfect pup for you! The German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix is a popular crossbreed that is known for being an excellent guard dog. They are loyal and protective of their family, and will bark to warn of any strangers or perceived threats. This mix is a popular choice for families looking for a guard dog, as they are both loyal and protective. However, it is important to note that they will need proper training in order to prevent them from becoming too aggressive. This hybrid mix can be found in most animal shelters, and they make excellent pets for families willing to invest their time in training them properly. The German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix — Training Needs If you have your heart set on a German Shepherd Pomeranian mix, be prepared to put in the time and effort required to properly train your dog. Providing proper training for your German Shepherd Pomeranian mix will help ensure he becomes a well-behaved, well-mannered member of the family. German Shepherds are notorious for being difficult to potty train, and Pomeranians can be stubborn as well. This generally means that this mix will also be difficult in this area. Be patient, consistent, and use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats or praise when your dog goes potty in the proper place. Crate training may also be helpful in Potty training this mixed breed. This will give your dog his own space where he can feel safe and secure and will help teach him that he needs to hold it until he is taken outside to do his business. This is a powerful, energetic dog with a strong prey drive. Without proper obedience training, your dog may be difficult to control and could present a danger to himself and others. Start obedience training as early as possible, using positive reinforcement techniques such as treats or praise. With time and patience, your German Shepherd Pomeranian mix will learn what you expect of him. Proper socialization is also important for this breed. German Shepherds are naturally distrustful of strangers, and Pomeranians can be territorial. This will help your dog learn to trust and accept new people and situations, and will make him a well-rounded, confident adult dog. With proper training, socialization, and obedience training, your German Shepherd Pomeranian mix can be a wonderful companion dog who is loyal and loving to his family. No, the German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix is not aggressive. However, they do have a strong prey drive and may not be the best choice for families with small children or other pets. They need daily exercise to burn off their high level of energy. This mixed breed can occasionally show signs of aggression, but this is usually due to lack of socialization or training. Typical situations that may result in aggression include: — feeling threatened or cornered — perceiving a family member to be in danger — being startled or surprised With proper socialization and training, this mix should show minimal signs of aggression. This mix breed is a popular one among dog lovers. They are known to be very loyal and loving dogs. But how much exercise do they need? The German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix is a high-energy dog. They need at least 30 to 60 minutes of exercise every day. An active family that can provide plenty of exercise is the best fit for this breed. Daily exercise is important for this breed, so regular walks, runs, or hikes are a must. If you are not able to provide this amount of exercise, then this is not the right breed for you. The German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix — Mental Stimulation This crossbreed is an intelligent family pet that requires a lot of mental stimulation. They are easily bored and can become destructive if not given enough to do. You can do many simple things to keep their minds active and engaged. Try hiding their food around the house for them to find, or teaching them new tricks and commands. You could even create an obstacle course in your backyard for them to navigate. Whatever you do, just ensure your dog gets the mental stimulation they need to stay happy and healthy. A variety of toys, puzzle feeders, and daily walks or play sessions will help keep their minds active and happy. Training is also important for this breed, as it gives them something to focus on and builds the bond between you. Agility courses, obedience classes or simple tricks at home are all great ways to give your German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix a mental workout. When it comes to grooming your German Shepherd Pomeranian mix, you need to keep a few key things in mind. Coat — Their coat can be either long or short, depending on the parentage. If your dog has a longer coat, you must brush them regularly to prevent matting and tangles. A shorter coat will require less brushing, but you should still brush them occasionally to remove any loose hair. This will help to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. You can use a doggy toothbrush or a finger brush designed for dogs. If you do not keep them trimmed, then they can start to grow into the pads of their feet, which can be very painful. This is because their long ears can easily become infected if they are not kept clean. By following these simple grooming tips, you can keep your German Shepherd Pomeranian mix healthy and looking their best. Some of these health issues are more common than others, and some may be more severe. Hip dysplasia is one of the most common health concerns for German Shepherd Pomeranian mixes. Another common health concern for German Shepherd Pomeranian mixes is elbow dysplasia. One of the more serious health concerns that this mixed breed can develop is degenerative myelopathy. Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive spinal cord disease that leads to paralysis. These are just a few of the common health concerns that German Shepherd Pomeranian mixes can face. Of course, every dog is different and will not necessarily develop any of these conditions. As with all dogs, the German Shepherd Pomeranian mix should have a high-quality diet that is balanced and nutritious. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to this particular breed. This mixed breed is a high-energy dog. They need a lot of exercise, which means they will also need a lot of food to fuel their bodies. High-quality dry dog food is the best option for this breed. Look for brands that are high in protein and low in fillers. The other thing to keep in mind with this breed is that they are prone to weight gain. Avoid giving them too many treats and make sure they get plenty of exercise. Are they good with other Dogs? The German Shepherd Pomeranian mix should be friendly and good with other dogs, as both parent breeds are generally good-natured around other canines. With the right training and socialization, this mixed breed should be a great companion for another dog in the family. Are they Child Friendly? Fortunately, this dog tends to inherit the best qualities of both parents, which means they can make great companions for children of all ages. They are typically friendly and playful, but also loyal and protective, so you can rest assured knowing that your kids will always have a furry friend to watch over them. Do they drool? German Shepherd Pomeranian Mix dogs may drool when they are excited or nervous. However, with proper training and socialization, most GSPOMs will learn to control their drooling instinct. They can help you determine if there is a medical reason for the increased drooling and make recommendations for treatment. In terms of barking levels, German Shepherds are known to be one of the most vocal breeds, while Pomeranians are relatively quiet. They are bred to be smaller in size than their German Shepherd parent and have a thick, double coat that helps protect them from cold weather. While they do well in colder climates, this dog can also adapt to warmer weather. However, they will need access to shade and water to stay cool. If you live in an area with hot summers, keeping your dog inside during the hottest hours of the day is best. Life Expectancy German Shepherd Pomeranian mix dogs have a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. Also, keep in mind that puppies from reputable breeders are more likely to be healthy and have longer lifespans. However, both parent breeds have long been recognized. The German Shepherd was recognized in , and the Pomeranian was recognized in .This is because this mixed breed is a relatively new hybrid dog breed. When it comes to finding a reputable breeder, make sure you do your research. A good breeder will be able to provide you with health clearances for both of the parent breeds. Occasionally, you may find this hybrid breed in animal shelters or rescue organizations. However, because they are still relatively rare, it may be difficult to find one that is up for adoption. They are loyal, loving, and make excellent protectors. However, they do require a fair amount of exercise and may not be the best choice for first-time dog owners. The joint for the bone of their elbow or hip will not fit properly together, and this can cause friction, destruction of the joint, and more. This becomes more and more pronounced with excessive use and will often need pain medication, physiotherapy, and other professional services. Luxating Patellas From their Pom parent, this is another common health concern. It involves the patella their kneecap moving out of place without warning. It can be occasional or regular. As they age, it can be more frequent. This will lead to abnormal walking and even reluctance to exercise if it happens a lot. Epilepsy Caused by unknown causes, this is when the body starts to shake uncontrollably. It is often hard to treat and will require professional consultation from experienced veterinarians who can make treatment recommendations. Disc disease This is a condition where the discs start to degrade and cause pain in the nerves and spine in general. This condition is primarily due to the Pomeranian parent, but it can happen in larger dogs. Surgery is often a treatment recommendation, but it would depend on how severe it is and where the discs are in the back. Cancer Just as with humans, cancer is prominent in dogs. It can be any kind of cancer and any kind of security. Proper vet check-ups and good health are vital criteria for helping keep your dog as healthy as possible and catching any potential cancer early in life. Degenerative myelopathy This comes mostly from their German Shepherd genes. When the nervous system starts to degrade , it leads to progressive weakness and eventually paralysis, mostly of their hind end. They will need some sort of wheelchair or harness to help them walk and move comfortably. It can lead to difficulty eating and powerful jaw and tooth pain. Proper dental hygiene is, of course, a great way to help prevent this. What is the temperament of a German Pomeranian? One of the reasons that these dogs are so popular is because of their excellent temperament. These sweet dogs tend to be alert, loyal, friendly, and active members of the family. They have a lot of energy but tend to get along with everyone. They often will get along well with kids, other pets, and more. They can sometimes be territorial if their German Shepherd traits allow it, so if you have another alpha dog, it may take a while for everyone to figure out their turf. These dogs may not always adapt well to newcomers or strangers, however. While polite and attentive to your guests, they might not like to be handled by them specifically. This is also the case with new pets or visiting pets. Are German Pomeranians good family dogs? In most cases, yes! German Pomeranians are excellent family dogs because they tend to be perfect playmates for your child. They get along well with kids and teens and will enjoy being in the thick of things. If you are a family that likes to walk, hike, or go camping, your German Pomeranian will be a great companion for the adventure. If you have a dog with especially strong German Shepherd traits, you may notice that they act similarly to a watchdog. What is the German Shepherd Pomeranian mix price? They are hard to find from reputable breeders outside of Europe, which drives the price point up. This crossbreed takes a lot of effort to design, especially with artificial insemination. All of this comes at a literal price! Pros and cons of a German Pomeranian Of course, part of doing your research on your new furry addition is going to be in weighing the pros and cons of this adorable and fluffy breed. Here they are for you to take a look at: PROS Great for apartments or small homes Blend well with active families All things considered, German Pomeranians are easy-going dogs. They enjoy being around their humans and are great additions to active families who want a dog to participate in camping trips and hikes. They adapt well to apartments and small homes. While they will need exercise, it will be much easier to exercise them properly, even with smaller spaces available instead of large dogs. They are lovely additions to families that want a loving and attentive family dog that will be a great companion to kids, other pets, and parents, too. CONS Can be difficult to house train Need 60 minutes per day or more Lots of health conditions Thanks to their Pomeranian heritage, these dogs can be challenging to house train. You may want to consider looking at crate training where you can place pee pads, just so that they contain their messes in one area, at least. These are active dogs that, despite their size, will require 60 minutes of activity a day. Many will need 90 to minutes even. Many families will choose to exercise their Pom before and after work specifically because they can destroy things out of sheer boredom if left alone all day. Another option is to get them distraction toys or consider doggy daycare. Lastly, the list above will be something to consider when it comes to possible health conditions. These will require vet visits and specialist appointments if necessary when you are looking for a way to help them feel at their best as they get older. How to take care of a German Shepherd Pomeranian mix From daily maintenance to long-term care for their health, there are several areas that you can focus on for their benefit. These areas are primarily around their beauty routine, weirdly enough, since both breeds will have some essential cosmetic needs to consider. Get used to a groomer Since they are long-haired, they will need to have regular trips to the groomers. Most will aim for weeks. Going longer means that you will need to prioritize their grooming at home with a brush. Skipping these grooming habits means that you will end up with tangled fur that can be loaded with bacteria, cause skin irritations, mats, and more. Even with a groomer, you will need to help them stay comfortable with brushing their fur at home every few days. This will help prevent any mats and can help them relieve themselves of loose fur as they shed their coats during shedding season. This is fine, but you can also look at blending it with their grooming specialist care too. These are the professionals who will know how to properly cut them down to help with wear and tear to your home and their health. Think of it as a trim at home between appointments. This is often done with cotton balls and a bit of warm water if you need it. In case of infection, you will have antibiotics to use, so the sooner you get your dog used to the attention, the better. Brush their teeth, too, so that they can avoid issues like dental decay and other common complications that can lead to a lot of health conditions as they age. You can do this through actual teeth brushing and even toys that are all about shaking plaque loose. Face washed every other day Another thing to get used to doing at home is caring for their face! Due to their Pom parent, they are prone to eye issues. On the whole A mix between a German Shepherd and a Pomeranian, these tend to be fluffy and medium-sized dogs. While they can vary in size greatly due to genetics from each parent, most end up to be inches cm high and weigh between pounds kg. Some will have German Shepherd markings, and others will have Pomeranian colors and combinations. They have long hair and cured tails. They can be prone to many health conditions, so proper care is needed for their best quality of life. German Pomeranians are beautiful and attentive family dogs for those that like to be on the move. While caring for them will be a little different than many may be used to, it will be a lifetime full of fun for those families who love a medium-sized dog. If you know someone who will love one of these, consider sharing this with them to spread the love further!

These pups are intelligent, friendly, and eager to please. Black Labs are also known for being loyal, protective, and devoted to their families. In addition to their great personalities, Black Labs are also excellent athletes. They excel at agility and obedience trials, and they make excellent hunting and retrieving dogs. Black Labs are versatile dogs that can fit into almost any lifestyle. They do very well with children. The breed is usually tolerant of climbing and tugging by small children and love to be spoiled. This confident yet tender pup is social and easy-going around new people. Black Lab Puppies Health Considerations Though generally very healthy and long-lived — with an average lifespan of around 10 to 12 years — our Black Labs for sale are not without their unique health concerns. Like every breed of dog, there are a few conditions you should be aware of before you consider purchasing one of our Black Lab puppies for sale. Understanding the risks allows you to know the signs and prevent small health concerns from turning into big ones. Hip and elbow dysplasia are both hereditary conditions that can cause joint pain and mobility issues. Allergies are relatively common in dogs, and Black Labs are no exception. Symptoms can include itchiness, redness, and hair loss. Exercise-induced collapse is a relatively rare condition that can be triggered by strenuous activity. Symptoms include weakness, dizziness, and collapse. While these health concerns can be daunting, many of them can be effectively managed with proper care. Finding a Black Lab puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. They are also one of the most popular breeds in the United States, in part due to their beautiful black coat. And while the coat does require some maintenance, it is relatively easy to care for. Weekly brushing will help to remove dead hair and keep the coat looking shiny and healthy. Labs also benefit from occasional baths, which will help to remove any dirt or debris that has become trapped in their fur. Meet Black Lab Puppies for Sale. Life Span Did You Know? Black Labrador Retrievers, or just Black Labs, are a common coat color variation of one of the most popular dog breeds. The Black Labrador Retriever is not necessarily a separate dog breed. Black Labs are still Labrador Retrievers; they just have a distinct coat color that is a specifically-bred characteristic. Like other Labrador Retrievers, Black Labs are energetic, playful, and affectionate dogs that make great family companions. Although they are active and energetic dogs, Labs are also known for their gentleness and patience with other family members. Well-socialized Black Labs tend to get along well with just about everyone including children, other dogs, pets, and even strangers. They are considered one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , Black Labs thrive on attention, especially from their favorite humans. They are happiest when they are spending time with their families and receiving affection and attention from them. Despite their high energy, Labs are highly adaptable dogs. They do tend to be better suited to homes with fenced yards where they can run, but they also adapt well to apartments provided they get enough daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation. They do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat and extreme cold like many dog breeds. As such, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Black Labrador Retriever can include elbow dysplasia , hip dysplasia, heart disease, hereditary myopathy, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. Another potential health concern is EIC exercise-induced collapse , which can occur in young adult Labs and has a genetic link. Because carriers can be identified by DNA tests, it is recommended that breeders test for them. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you talk to the breeder 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 large, deep-chested dog breed, Labrador Retrievers are at a higher risk for bloat. Labrador Retrievers are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. Although their high energy and puppylike exuberance can sometimes be a challenge, they are intelligent dogs that are eager to please. As long as training is kept consistent and focused on positive rewards and praise, novice owners still tend to do well with Black Labs. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training too. Black Labs have a short, water-resistant double coat that sheds year-round and sheds heavier as seasons change. Depending on how active your Black Lab is and what they get into, they may need a bath more often, especially if they are swimming a lot. Weekly ear checks and careful cleanings when needed help prevent ear infections. Good dental care for dogs , like daily brushing and cleanings at the vet when needed, can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. As one of the most active dog breeds , a Black Labrador Retriever will need a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus some playtime and time to run are a minimum. Your Black Lab will likely be up for more activity if you are. One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that they have an extended puppyhood. They tend to maintain a puppylike exuberance until they are years old. Although they do tend to mellow out as they get older, they are still active, energetic, and playful dogs. Once they are fully grown, you can try other things like hiking, running, dock diving, and more to find other activities you and your Black Lab can enjoy together. Fully-grown Black Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Black Labs generally live for years on average. Black Labrador Retrievers came before the also-popular Chocolate Lab. All modern Chocolate Labs can be traced back to three Black Labs in the s. It was the December issue of .Featured Black Labrador Retriever Article. His pedigree is here Pedigree. Contessa's pedigree is here. We put a lot of energy into raising puppies. We are involved with them from birth. They are loved all day long. They are exposed to children, adults, older dogs, loud noises, household items, scented to wings, duck calls, a early start with obedience and potty training. Our lab puppies are well on their way to being potty trained before they're placed in their forever homes, as we've incorporated the misty method. Labrador retriever puppies will have a complete puppy packet including information on shots, worming schedule and medication that has been given, that you will need to share with your vet. A written guarantee, and the basic schedule of sleeping and feeding that the puppy has been raised on will also be some of the information in your puppy packet. AKC Northern California labrador puppy Breeder All of our labrador puppies are registered with the American Kennel Club with limited registration , micro-chipped and ready to be enrolled in the AKC ReUnite program before they go into a new family home. This service is included in the purchase price of your puppy. Our labrador puppies are also sent home with a supply of their current food and feeding schedule. We feed large breed puppy food to insure they grow up healthy and avoid any problems with dysplasia as recommended by the AKC. We also send them home with a receiving blanket that has been with them for some time. It has the scent of their litter-mates and their mother to ease the transition to their new home. Contessa Rose Da Serra. As my website states, I am not like other breeders in many ways. First, I want to explain how the average Labrador breeder raises their pups the first few weeks of their life. They expect these tiny pups without their senses fully developed to find their way to a nipple without being smothered. I understand that this is what dogs do in the wild, but this is also why many puppies die in the wild. .Then, on top of that they hope that each of the pups will get enough milk on it's own to make it through the 1st week of life. They expect the Lab mom to do all the work, so they don't have to lose a wink of sleep. This is all very sad to say but it's true. I, on the other hand, care about each individual pup's life, I care that each and every one of them survive so that they can live a full and happy life. So, I make sure that each individual pup is given outstanding care. How do I do this? I began with hand raising each one of my pups the first 3 weeks of its life. What do I mean by hand raise my pup? It means I personally make sure each individual pup is fed every 2 hours- 24 hours a day, the first 2 weeks of its life. At feeding time, I make sure each puppy gets on a nipple so they don't have to struggle to find one. I make sure that each puppy gets an adequate amount of milk. Then, once I see that they have been well fed. I pick up one pup at a time and have the mom lick it to go potty. And then I put them in their little crib to ensure they are safe and not smooth by the mother until the next feeding 2 hours later. At three weeks, we feed the pups every 4 hours. But at this point, even though the pups eyes and ears are open. I still supervise the feeding to ensure that each pup is adequately fed and again not smothered by it's mother. I believe in giving these pups outstanding care. Even if that means that I lose a lot of sleep, and even if it ends up just saving one pups life. That one pup could be the next Labrador that I get a testimony about how it brought so much joy into one person's life! So, in the end, all the work and lack of sleep is worth it. I am up now about to give my pups their 3 am feeding. Hope this helps you all understand what is put into each litter. She is from our breeding between Cash and Bella, both parents are health certified. Sugar is overnight crate trained and has some other training. She has the sweetest disposition; we absolutely love her! However, we have had a family emergency that has come up that may cause us to have to put Sugar up for sale. If you would be interested in Sugar, please email us and let us know about yourself, and the lifestyle that you would be able to give Sugar. We will be reviewing potential families who would be interested in Sugar and pick the best family for her, and make a decision later this month. They are given constant positive attention their whole time with us. We have a big game room that we call the "Labby Room" This room is designated for our labs and their lab puppies. The puppies get a lot of interaction with all our kids in this room. They also become well adjusted to all the sounds of the home life, like the sound of a vacuum. When the pups are born, I will contact you and inform you on how many pups were born. We will post up pictures of each litter soon after they are born. And try to post weekly picture updates so you can watch the puppies grow. We will also post video on our face book page. When the pups are 6 to 7 weeks of age, I will contact you to set up an appointment for you choose and pick up your pup at 8 weeks of age. If you had first deposit in for a male pup you will have first choice of all the males available. If you have second deposit in, you will have the next appointment to choose from the males that are left and so forth. This order of reserving pups would also apply to the females as well. We honor all reservations on a puppy by not selling the puppy to anyone else. So if you are interested in a litter and don't want to make a reservation until "you see the litter". An appointment can be made to view the left-over puppies when they are 10 weeks old, and no sooner. No appointments will be allowed at a younger age, except for the families that made a prior reservation. We will not allow our baby puppies to be exposed to potential life threatening viruses from people that are just "shopping". We wait until all puppies that have been reserved are safely home, before we show any left-over puppies. Any left-over pups will be at least 10 weeks of age before any viewings are allowed, to insure they have at least had 2 sets of shots in. The only other accommodation that we can offer is a zoom call, so you can see the pups before you make a reservation. Most of our sweet puppies are sold before they are even born. Reserve your puppy today!

Reserve Goliath NOW! Goliath is mini chocolate tri that carries blue. He weighs 41 pounds and is 11 inches tall at the shoulders. He is one of the few mini bulldogs, with excellent structure, big rope, big bone, and huge head. An amazing producer, He has been producing outstanding puppies and we are proud to be able to offer him to the public. Goliath tends to "stamp his offspring" giving them that short and compact, big boned, low to the ground look. We can guaranty, you will be happy with the quality Goliath produces. We look forward to serving you. And yes, he is available for Stud Service. For Stud service.Puppies for Sale Morning Star Bullies is a responsible English bulldog breeder offering pet and show quality puppies to approved homes. We are passionate about our fur babies and treat them like family. All of our breedings are carefully planned to produce the most beautiful home raised, healthy puppies with the right temperament, and conformation. Our partners are lovers of English Bulldogs and take great care in raising our puppies so that they may continue to bring joy to others. Our puppies come pre-loved, with current shots and de-wormings, checked by licensed veterinarians, with health certificates, and a clean bill of health. Help Our Cause Your support and contributions will enable us to meet our goals and improve conditions. Your generous donation will fund our mission. He is a gorgeous English Bulldog. And yes, he is available for stud service! Their body is stocky with well-developed muscles and short legs which gives them a clumsy look. They have a big broad head having a wide forehead and an arched neck. In addition to this, their coat is very short, fine and shiny. The temperament of the English bulldogs is quite dependable as they are gentle family dogs that excel around children. Although they are slow movers at the same time, they have the ability to overpower any intruder who might come looking for trouble. English bulldogs are some pretty funny looking creatures with their unique features that are quite distinct from other dog breeds. They have huge loose skin under their face that forms many air filled sacks over their muzzles, under eyes and even under their jowls giving them a unique appearance. This feature has made them perfect to play as Rosie the bulldog in the famous cartoon series The Bullwinkle Show. Another feature which makes them differ from other dog breeds are their foreshortened limbs, sparse coat and lack of tail. Where Are English Bulldogs Bred? English Bulldogs do not have a very big population all over the world including California CA. Therefore, it is recommended that you plan your purchase before visiting one of them so that you can ask all sorts of questions regarding the bulldog. You should inquire about the living conditions and preferences of a typical English Bulldog as these dogs have short muzzles which makes breathing a bit harder for them. They should be ideally kept indoors where fresh air can be easily circulated around their bodies to avoid respiratory issues occurring later on in life as well as overheating during hot summer days. It is also important to ensure cleanliness around their ears as they can suffer from many skin infections if proper care is not taken from time time. Visit Your California English Bulldog Breeder in Person English Bulldogs are a very unique breed and can be identified easily with their protruding lower jaws, wrinkled foreheads and the loose skin on their face. These dogs do not shed much hair and need to be brushed occasionally to remove dead hairs from their coats. If you really want to buy an English Bulldog in California CA, it is recommended that you get ready beforehand so that you will have a good checklist of things to discuss with your breeder. A great way to receive references would be to ask the breeder about other buyers he has served in the past and you can also collect some information about their experience through third party sources and online community forums. English Bulldogs have been quite popular throughout history and they have been used in dog fights for decades. Even though times have changed now, some people still raise these dogs for fighting which is not at all right. If you purchase an English Bulldog from a reputed breeder in California CA, you can be sure that it is not raised for fighting and will always remain happy. English Bulldogs can become really sick if they do not receive proper medical care. In fact, most veterinarians suggest that owners of this breed carry out regular health checkups with their dogs to avoid any major issues from occurring later on in life. Before you finalize a deal with an English Bulldog breeder in California, it is important to check how many of these dogs has the breeder bred till date. A responsible breeder would never compromise on the quality of their dogs for the sake of making a profit and would always breed a limited number of puppies each year. These dogs need a lot of care and attention, so it would be a good idea to have a crate ready for them to sleep at night or when you will not be around. If you do not have a crate within your reach, the bulldog breeders in California CA can even help you out with this and you can check out the bulldog ads on the internet for more information. You should also measure your house to make sure that the dog will be comfortable living there. Proper exercise is another aspect that needs to be taken care of if you are looking forward to have a healthy English Bulldog. In fact, some of these dogs get overweight quite often due to lack of exercise and unhealthy food. If you have a huge backyard or a park near your house, you can allow the dog to run around for some time. However, if you are living in an apartment, it is best that you take out time to walk your pet every day as this breed needs lots of physical activity if it has to live a healthy life without any major problems. These dogs are really stubborn and it can be quite difficult for them to learn the difference between a bathroom and other parts of the house. You can use a crate or a small room for this purpose when you will not be around and praise the dog when it does its business in that area of the house. It is best to keep lots of chew toys, balls and other accessories ready for your pup so that it does not get bored. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. English Bulldog Puppies English bulldogs are among the most well-known breeds of bulldogs in the United States and arguably the world. According to rankings by the American Kennel Club in , this breed is the number 2 in the option for families to buy amongst a selection of dog breeds. These bulldogs have a long history stemming from their original use for bull baiting in Britain. Many people still see these as an old English bulldog and a cultural icon, and it is one of the most popular dogs you will see in England. They do have fierce determination, persistence and an underrated strength, and these are part of why many people love them so much for a family companion. British bulldogs naturally have wide heads and shoulders, flat faces covered with skin folds and thick flaps, and a shorter and higher muzzle than many other dogs. Their thick facial skin folds are also present under their neck, and their pointed teeth and endless snorting constitute a significant factor in the fierce and sometimes scary look they have become known for. So why should you go for an English bulldog? What exactly makes them so special and wonderful anyway? Well, here are a few things we love about this breed of bulldogs. The first and most important benefit to us is that English bulldogs are very good guard dogs. Despite their relatively small size, these dogs are not to be underestimated. Their aggressive nature from their history of bull baiting has been passed down from generation to generation of bulldogs, making them mean fighters to intruders. These dogs do not hesitate to leap into action and defend their owners when there is a threat. Another big benefit is that they are family-friendly and safe to be around your children. Despite the strength and aggression they show to outsiders, you can be sure that your well-trained English bulldogs are perfect family friends that can be around your children with low chances of danger. This very tolerant breed loves to keep a quiet and watchful eye over its owners and is very good at informing you when they sense something wrong. Their short, stubby legs also make for some very funny moments, such as their clumsy efforts to climb onto surfaces, like your couch or their dramatic pouts and faces. English bulldogs have a natural pranking streak that makes you laugh effortlessly. Coming home to unwind and having an English bulldog waiting for you to home is a definite stress reliever and mood elevator. We need to rectify that, and we have the perfect English bulldog puppies for sale for you to make your pick from. With an English bulldog puppy, you can have that beautiful bully that your kids can grow up with, and that can be a perfect companion and guard for your home. All our English bulldogs are the healthiest and cutest selection of breeds that you will find in the country, and this is a fact. We have decades of veterinarian experience and expert knowledge in this breed that has helped us monitor and facilitate the best studs and breeders to produce these beautiful English bulldog puppies. We have male and female English bulldog puppies, and there are a variety of ages that you can pick from, whether you like an eight-week-old puppy, ten-week-old puppy, week old puppy, or even older. Frequently Asked Questions How much exercise do English bulldogs need? English bulldogs are a low-energy breed and do not require a lot of exercise. A daily walk or play session of minutes should meet their physical needs. However, due to their short snouts, English bulldogs are prone to overheating, so it's important to avoid strenuous exercise or exercise in hot weather. Indoor play, such as fetch or tug-of-war, can provide them with physical and mental stimulation. Regular exercise is vital for their overall health and well-being. How to train an English bulldog puppy? Train an English bulldog puppy with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Early socialization and obedience training are important. Avoid punishment-based training. Find a trainer who understands the breed and its unique needs. Consistency and patience are key to success in training an English bulldog puppy. What are the key features that make Bulldogs special? Bulldogs are notable for their unique physical appearance, friendly and affectionate nature, and loyalty. They are low-energy and good with children, making them popular family pets. Their wrinkly faces and undershot jaw give them a distinct look, while their muscular build and confident attitude make them recognizable and loved by all. Where can I buy an English bulldog? English bulldogs can be purchased from various sources, including breeders, pet stores, and animal rescue shelters. When buying from a breeder, it's important to find a reputable one that's committed, knowledgable, follows ethical breeding practices, provides information about the dog's health temperament, and offers a written guarantee.

The current Guinness World Record for the largest litter is 24 puppies, who were born in Cambridgeshire in .The sight-loss charity runs the biggest breeding programme of working dogs in the world. All puppies will spend a week at the Guide Dogs National Centre near Leamington Spa before being individually placed with volunteer puppy raisers around the UK. Register for free to continue reading Sign up for exclusive newsletters, comment on stories, enter competitions and attend events. LOG IN Email Please enter a valid emailPlease enter a valid email First name Please enter a valid emailPlease Last name You must be at least 18 years old to create an account Enter your password Must be at least 6 characters, include an upper and lower case character and a number I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from Evening Standard. Read our Privacy notice. Opt-out policy You can opt-out at any time by signing in to your account to manage your preferences. Each email has a link to unsubscribe. Email This account already exists. Enter your password to log in. Please enter a valid email Password. The U. In late , Guide Dogs' three-year-old German shepherd Unity gave birth to 16 healthy puppies. As a first-time mom, Unity delivered a litter over twice the size of the average for German Shepherds, which is eight, according to the American Kennel Club. The 16 puppies are also the largest litter born through the Guide Dogs' breeding program in its year history. The pandemic has had a detrimental impact on our charity's breeding program and how many litters we can have, so these puppies are even more treasured," Matthew Bottomley, Guide Dogs' head of breeding operations, said in a statement. Trigger is a 6-year-old golden retriever and Guide Dogs' most prolific stud, having sired close to puppies. The nonprofit hopes that Unity and Trigger's puppies will have the loyalty and drive of a German shepherd mixed with the friendliness and confidence of a golden retriever. The puppy raisers will care for the dogs for about a year, helping the little animals socialize, tackle new environments , and learn basic commands. Once the puppies are older, they will receive the specialized training needed to become service animals for the visually impaired. To learn more about Guides Dogs' work and how to support the charity's efforts, visit the nonprofit's website. Related Articles. Share this article Share The charity said it hoped these crossbreed puppies will have the loyalty and drive of the German Shepherd, as well as the friendliness and confidence of the Golden Retriever. While it was Trigger's 28th litter, it was the first for the puppies' mother, a three-year-old German Shepherd called Unity. Guide Dogs said it runs the 'biggest, most ethical breeding programme of working dogs in the world'. The puppies cosy up to their mother, a three-year-old German Shephered called Unity This was the first litter Unity has had, although it is the 28th litter of their father, which is Guide Dogs UK's most prolific stud The sight loss charity tests the health of its breeding dogs, which live with volunteers to give the puppies the best start in a home environment. All puppies to go the Guide Dogs National Centre near Leamington Spa for one week before being individually placed with volunteer puppy raisers across the UK. The charity helps millions with sight loss in Britain, such as Nathan Foy, 41, from Cardiff. Pictured: Nathan Foy, 41, with his dog Mason. Mr Foy suffers from sight loss because of congenital glaucoma Mr Foy said Guide Dogs UK 'saved' his life and said his dog Mason reassures him if he has hallucinations becuase of his condition He also has Charles Bonnet syndrome, which causes him to have intense visual hallucinations, usually related to things he touches or hears. The hallucinations can be simple patterns but in many cases are complex images including events, people, places or animals. Mr Foy said his guide dog Mason kept him safe and able to realise his visions were not real. He said: 'Living with Charles Bonnet has been really difficult.

Our History Simply Shepherds Rescue is an all-volunteer non-profit companion animal rescue organization working in the South Suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. Our primary focus is on rescuing abandoned, neglected and homeless German Shepherd dogs. We provide education to the public about responsible pet ownership in socializing, training, and caring for their family companion. We work hard in finding the perfect match for our dogs and their new permanent loving forever homes. We do not have a shelter so we depend on loving foster homes to provide a temporary sanctuary for our animals in need. We are comprised entirely of experienced volunteers united and inspired by a common compassion for all animals. We depend solely on donations and adoption fees to help us save the animals that come into our care. Each orphaned animal we help is provided proper veterinary attention and then is placed into our foster program. Our foster program is the key to helping a homeless animal become a loving pet. Some of our dogs need extra special care and attention to recuperate from medical, mental, or physical neglect and some just need to regain their confidence and trust in people. All of our dogs receive TLC and basic family member training. What is fostering? Fostering is a second chance. Sometimes it is the only chance. We have the knowledge, the tools, and many other resources to help these wonderful creatures. What we don't have are enough foster homes. Can you open your heart and your home and become a foster parent for a loving dog in need? Please contact us to find out what you can do to give a dog a chance. Separate Lifetimes We who choose to surround ourselves with lives even more temporary than our own, live within a fragile circle; easily and often breached. Unable to accept its awful gaps, we would still live no other way. We cherish memory as the only certain immortality, never fully Irving Townsend Help Our Cause Your support and contributions will enable us to help these animals. Your generous donation will fund our mission. Donate Now. The adoption fee of German Shepherd in Illinois will range from two hundred fifty dollars up to four three hundred fifty dollars. Choosing a Good German Shepherd Rescue If you are trying to adopt a rescued German Shepherd from German Shepherd shelters, you might be confused about what you should consider. If you would ask people like your friends and family, they might have different opinions that would confuse you. But there is not so much to consider. The fact that you chose to adopt a rescued German Shepherd than buying one is already one act of kindness. You might already know that there are so many rescued German Shepherds in the world and only a few German Shepherd shelters. If the German Shepherd comes at you with no hesitations and no aggressiveness, you would know that it was a good rescue. If the German Shepherd is warm and inviting on your first encounter, it is already a good rescue because there are no signs of any trauma or aggression. How do I pick a good rescue German Shepherd? You might ask yourself what kind of German Shepherd should you adopt and rehome. You can look for outgoing dogs. You can tell that by observing their body language when you first met. If you are also not down to unlimited patience, you can also avoid a shy German Shepherd. These dogs can be a little bit of work because they are afraid and run away from you. If you are outgoing and a very hands-on person, you might not enjoy your German Shepherd in North Carolina because of its shyness. However, this is only a guide, and if the personality of the dog is not that of a big deal for you, you can pick any dog you want. Dogs can be trained and can also be flexible like some people are. If you love a challenge, you can pick any dog you want. Summary In summary, you can pick any German Shepherd you want in Illinois, but you can pick one that is not suitable for you. If you wish to avoid that mistake, you can use the guides above in choosing the suitable German Shepherd rescue in Illinois for you. Other States.

Salt and pepper Light brown or golden Her coat is usually thick and fluffy, with long, short, dense or medium fur. Perfect to cuddle up to on a cold night! Both parents have double coats, which helped them work in cold weather, and the German Shepherd Husky Mix has this dual layer, too. This means they are better living in cold climates. So if you are thinking of getting one of these dogs and you live in a place where it reaches high temperatures, this is not the dog for you! The Gerberian Shepsky is a moderate shedder and, as its coat is thick and fluffy, it is prone to matting. I advise brushing 2 -3 times a week to keep her double coat shiny and tangle-free. German Shepherds were bred to herd livestock and are now often used as police and military dogs; in these roles, they work closely with their owners and are able to learn commands quickly. The Siberian Husky is also a working dog that was trained to pull loads over long distances in the Arctic wilderness. This mix results in an alert dog who is quick to learn. She will respond well to whistles and verbal commands after just a few repetitions, which makes her easily trainable. This dog does well in dog agility, a great way for intelligent, high-energy dogs to expel energy and exercise their mind. A warning, though: this breed can be a bit obstinate. She may not obey if she senses that you are not a strong leader. Look how quickly this young dog already handles all types off commands: 3. If you are a couch potato, or you struggle to walk for more than an hour, this is not the dog for you. Like its parents, this dog can go for miles without tiring. They are perfect exercise companions and should be taken out twice a day, preferably for an hour or more each time. These dogs love to run, so you should take her to an area where she can go off leash providing she is trained. You can also teach her to jog or run alongside you. In large breed dogs like this one, their plates usually set at around 12 months , so it is best to wait until 12 — 15 months before starting more vigorous exercise. You should talk to your veterinarian to get the okay before starting any exercise program. I repeat: this dog is only for active, sporty types! Given their size and energy levels, I would only recommend this dog to someone with a house and spacious yard. She likes to be employed As well as physical exercise, these dogs like to fulfill the task they were bred for: doing a job. You should stimulate this need in her to avoid her becoming frustrated. You can fit her with a specially designed doggie backpack , which holds water and supplies and even your cell phone! Not to mention that it helps her burn off more of that pent-up energy. Like their German Shepherd parent, whose job was to keep watch over the herd, they are natural protectors. This can sometimes develop into overprotectiveness and territorial behavior, however, and may lead to displays of aggression towards strangers. It is imperative that you keep this under control through socializing your dog: make sure your puppy is used to being around as many people as possible from a very young age. You should get her a few toys she can play with at home like squeaky toys and tug toys. Try to socialize her with other puppies too — you could join a puppy training class and make connections, then get your puppies together for a play date! Potential health conditions Crossbreeds are generally healthier than purebred dogs. However, this dog could be prone to some health conditions that can occur in its parents. There are two main health problems, including: Elbow and hip dysplasia This is a condition that results in an unstable or loose joint. This can be helped by maintaining a healthy weight in your dog, so as not to put stress on her joints. Eye conditions Juvenile cataracts: These may not start until 6 years old. They appear as opacity in the lens of the eye and can cause a slight decrease in eyesight to complete blindness in more severe cases. Corneal dystrophy: This condition, in which abnormal material accumulates in the clear, outer layer of the eye the cornea , can cause visual impairment. It tends to affect both eyes and develops slowly. Progressive retinal atrophy: This can occur in later life and can lead to partial or complete blindness. Early symptoms can show as night blindness, dilated pupils and the inability to see clearly in bright light. Unfortunately, this condition is inherited, and it cannot be cured. If diagnosed early, however, there is a chance of saving the dog from going completely blind by using specific antioxidant supplementation. Other health problems can include digestive problems, blood disorders, bloat, and epilepsy. Feeding your Gerberian Shepsky who can be a little bit fussy As they are highly active dogs, the German Shepherd Husky Mix more often than not has a healthy appetite and requires a protein-rich diet. Bear in mind, though, that these critters can be fussy eaters! Try to find a brand that appeals to your dog, whether it is one in particular or a combination. Once you do, stick with what she likes. Given that these dogs are prone to digestive problems, it may mean some trial and error when trying to find the best dog food for her. Conclusion When it comes to genetics, Gerberian Shepskies got the good end of the deal. They are beautiful, intelligent, loyal, playful and easy to train, as long as you are a firm leader. Just remember, if you are thinking of getting one of these hybrids, you should be an active, outdoorsy person who is comfortable walking for at least 2 hours a day and has a house with a spacious yard. Thinking of getting a Gerberian Shepsky? Already the owner of one and want to share your story? Comment below! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. Why do you think the police force and military are using the German Shepherd so much? Sure, a Doberman can do the job just fine and there are definitely dog breeds that have stronger olfactory senses or stronger bites but they may not be willing to obey every command in every situation. They are too intelligent to outright obey everything which can sometimes be perceived as stubborn. Does that mean the German Shepherd is not smart? Absolutely not. In fact, the German Shepherd is often cited as one of the smartest dog breeds, right after their cousin the Belgian Shepherd, also known as Malinois. Their will to please outranks. How trainable is the German Shepherd Husky mix? Well, the Husky is known to be quite independent by design. So even though pairing these two very smart dog breeds makes sense at first glance, a Shepherd Husky mix might not be as easy to train as imagined. That being said, pairing a German Shepherd with a more agreeable Husky can certainly help. Genetics and temperament of the parents always play a pretty big role. This is not always the case and even a purebred may struggle with protection without proper direction and training. Always consult a professional to avoid teaching your dog negative behavior patterns barking at strangers on walks, lunging at dogs, and so on. Huskies are incredibly enduring. How could they not, they were bred to run hundreds of miles in very cold climates. But their original working purpose was quite specific and they may need to have an outlet for this desire to run. Training your dog early on will prevent behavioral issues in the future and gets your dog used to brain training. Since both breeds are relatively high energy, you need to walk your Shepsky at least twice a day for a minimum of minutes each. The German Shepherd is known to be a formidable family dog while the Husky can be quite reserved. Huskies are used to living and working in a pack and can be very sociable animals while Shepherds develop a deep bond with their owners. Although pairing these two breeds can produce great family dogs, there are other large dog breeds that are even suitable for apartment living out there that are very patient with children and also perfect for guarding property. Expect to have a very smart dog that will challenge you throughout the day. He will probably grow into a medium to large-sized dog with a weight of about 40 to 80 pounds. Both dogs are working breeds so you can expect a Shepsky to have high exercise needs. A task or daily job would keep them the happiest. Grooming Both dog breeds can have relatively similar coat types. Huskies have a thick double coat, meaning an undercoat plus guard hair. While the undercoat is soft and dense, the guard hairs are straight and somewhat smooth. Depending on the specific pairing, the coat can be a toin coss. Be ready for shedding seasons with both of these dogs. You can expect your male German Shepherd Husky mix to be in cm with a weight of lbs kg. Female German Shepherd Husky mixes range from in cm , weighing in at lbs kg. Apartment Living Can you live in an apartment with a high-energy dog like the German Shepherd Husky mix? It depends. If you provide your dog with an outlet for his exercise needs which means lots of walks, play, and training then there should be absolutely no problem. However, their tendency for high-pitched barks or howling may cause problems with your neighbors. Proper training will help and entails teaching your dog the quiet command. Would I advise you to buy a mixed breed from a breeder? Definitely not. There are far too many mixed breeds sitting in shelters and waiting to be chosen. As long as there are no health issues present in their ancestry, you could argue that mixed breeds might be healthier than purebreds from backyard breeders. Beware of backyard breeders mixing in a third breed without stating so. Make sure to check out my breeder questions before you fall victim to scammers or backyard breeders. Make sure to talk to a veterinarian or nutritionist first. Do you have a German Shepherd Husky mix? Share with us your experiences in the comments below! The resulting dog is a genetic gamble in terms of health and temperament and offers no advantage to a health-tested dog or rescuing. Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation. Each litter typically produces adorably fluffy puppies, each of which may look different. Some will inherit heterochromia — or different colored eyes — from their Husky parent, while others will receive the longer snout of their German Shepherd parent. History: Emergence of the Gerberian Shepsky To understand this active and loving mixed breed, we must first understand purebred Huskys and German Shepherds. As we mentioned, the German Shepherd is known as a herding dog. They were developed in for herding and guarding sheep in Germany. The Husky is a working dog, first bred over years ago in Siberia. They arrived in Alaska in where they ran hard as sledding dogs and stole the hearts of locals with their goofy personalities. No formal records document the first hybrid litter of Gerberian Huskys. In general, the German Shepherd Husky Mix has an ideal temperament. They get their friendly, silly, and gentle qualities from the Husky side, while they receive loyalty and bravery from their Shepherd side. While Huskies never meet a stranger, shepherds are standoffish. The combination leads to a perfect balance. Once grown, your Gerberian Shepky will protect you, and guard your family from anything- all while providing love, cuddles and plenty of adorable moments to last a lifetime! They are great around children, and when socialized from a young age, can live well with other animals. The German Shepherd Husky mixed breed is incredibly intelligent will learn quickly when trained appropriately. Huskies can be stubborn and become bored easily, while the German Shepherd loves to learn new things and have a job to do. If your puppy is more Husky, he may prefer hours of running, rather than mental stimulation. For example, hold out a toy or treat and let your pup catch a whiff. Then, hide the object and let your pup sniff it out. Get creative with your training and bond with your puppy to find what works for you! Be sure to keep your Gerberian Shepsky well exercised and mentally stimulated to avoid developing unwanted negative behaviors like barking, howling a husky favorite , and chewing. Calorie requirements differ based on age, weight, activity level, and sex. For example, a quickly growing puppy requires more calories than an adult Shepsky and should eat food specifically formulated for puppies. In contrast, active adult German Shepherd Husky mixes require about calories, while less active and senior dogs only require calories per day. A high quality food, formulated for large breeds is best. Remember to account for special treats in daily caloric needs! Get the whole family together for a walk or run. Continuously switch up the route so your Shepsky never gets bored. Other recommendations include providing at least 2 hours a day of moderate to vigorous physical activity. German Shepherd Husky mixes do best in an environment where they can play, run, and roam. Your new pet will be most content when able to participate in interactive activities like obstacle courses and challenging puzzles. With lots of love and attention, your Gerberian Shepsky will settle into a nice routine of work and play. Be sure to snuggle up for plenty of cuddles at the end of a long day! Shepsky Health Considerations Like their purebred parents, German Shepherd Husky mixes may suffer from certain health issues due to their genes. When you purchase a puppy, your breeder should be happy to provide a detailed health screening of the parents. Joint Dysplasia causes the elbows and hips to develop abnormally, leading to pain and eventual loss of movement if left untreated. If caught early, the condition can be treated successfully with medication or corrective surgery. Cataracts, inherited from the Husky parent, are issues with the lens of the eye that will lead to decreased vision over time. If left untreated, your Gerberian Shepsky may become disoriented, confused, and even aggressive as he loses his ability to process his surroundings. Again, if caught early, this disease can be treated with medication or surgery. This condition causes the stomach to swell and twist around it self. The risk is passed on to your Shepsky and great care must be taken to avoid it! Simply remain attentive to how much and how often your pup is eating and you should be safe. And, much like a wolf, the Shepsky mix possesses a strong snout and piercing eyes. They may even have two different colored eyes! Puppies with heterochromia are highly coveted and will cost more. But they are worth it — so gorgeous and unique! Just like the eyes, Gerberian Shepsky coats may be a variety of colors based on which parent they most closely resemble. Common colors include white, gray, silver, tan, red, and the classic German Shepherd coat color — Sable! Because the Husky originated as a sled dog, their coats are adapted for the cold climates of Siberia and Alaska. However, they are double coated and may shed one coat to accommodate warm temperatures. Your Shepsky will also have a double coat that requires twice weekly brushing sessions to promote proper shedding and skin health. Additionally, frequent full bathes are harmful to your German Sherpherd Husky mixes natural oils. This can lead to irritation and dry, itchy skin. Instead, only bath them when necessary with a gentle shampoo. Simply spot clean in between with a damp cloth, and use a non-toxic deodorizing spray if necessary! We've included some summary facts and stats below to help you make your decision. Do you think this gorgeous, regal looking dog is right for your family? Yet, cuddly, friendly, and adorable! So what do you think? Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Shepskies are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. One hour of exercise per day is a good starting point. They need dog parks and wide open spaces. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as many breeds are prone to dental issues. Shepsky Feeding A Shepsky diet should be formulated for a medium sized breed with high energy and exercise needs. You should consult your veterinarian or professional nutritionist for advice on what to feed your Shepsky and the correct portion sizes. Their dietary needs will change as they grow from puppyhood to adulthood and senior age. Stay on top of these nutritional requirements. Their German Shepherd parents grow very rapidly between the ages of four and seven months, making them susceptible to bone disorders. They do well on a high-quality, low-calorie diet that keeps them from growing too fast. Overfeeding your Shepsky and letting them pack on the pounds can cause joint problems, as well as other health conditions. Limit treats, keep them active, and serve them regular meals rather than leaving food available at all times. The main colors of Shepskies are brown, black, cream, white, red, and blue. Almost never solid, their coats are generally a mixture of two or more colors. They tend to shed quite a bit and you may need to pick up a RoboVac. These pups will require a few good brushes per week. Brushing will also help to spread the oils throughout the coat. These pups are well suited for cold weather. Their Siberian Husky parentage is straight from Russia, which is about as cold as it gets. Always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog should ever be left unsupervised with a child. The Shepsky is part pack dog and should be socialized early on. Introducing an adult Shepsky to a household with other pets can be more difficult if the German Shepherd parentage personality prevails and may require more work and professional trainers. Find out if this is the right dog for you by learning about their German Shepherd and Siberian Husky parents. Shepsky Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Shepskies because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or Siberian Husky breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. The German Shepherd Husky mix is a relatively new designer dog breed. Very little is known about where and when it originated. Many dog experts claim that the first of this kind was bred intentionally sometime in the late s. Originally, a German Shepherd and a Siberian Husky parents were mated to produce a first-rate working dog, since both the parents are excellent working dogs. Soon, because of their sheer strength and quick intellect, they were used to assist with search-and-rescue operations and took military and police roles. It would help to get a glimpse of the origin of the parent breeds to have a better understanding of German Shepherd Husky mix. The German Shepherd , which originated in in Germany, were used to herd sheep and pull heavy loads under tough conditions. They were imported and used as sled dogs during the Alaskan Gold Rush. The breed eventually became popular throughout Canada and the United States as great pets. The Siberian Husky is believed to have originated over two millennia ago from the Siberian Arctic. Nomadic Indian tribes used these dogs to help with pulling sleds and heavy loads. The Siberian Huskies made their way to North America in the s. Despite having relatively short history, German Shepherd Husky mixes have already become fashionable and increasingly common. German Shepherd Husky Mix Puppies! For the most part, when two different thoroughbred canines mate, the puppies will most often inherit traits from their parents. This will vary from litter to litter, of course. But rest assured that German Shepherd Husky mix puppies look a lot like their parents in terms of how they look as well as their personality or temperament. This striking creature has a medium to long head and a strong, somewhat pointy muzzle. A German Shepherd Husky has pointy triangular ears and a set of alert almond-shaped eyes. The puppies of these parent breeds are well-built, energetic, and athletic. German Shepherd Husky mixes are super fluffy and their beautiful coat contributes to their attractive appearance. Like German Shepherds and Siberian Huskies, this designer dog has a double coat. It has a tough top coat and an insulating layer of undercoat that is made up of short hair. The undercoat protects and keeps the dogs warm in cold regions. Some of their undercoat will shed during the months of summer, keeping them nice and cool during the hotter weather. All in all, the coat of German Shepherd Husky mixes is not only beautiful, but functional as well. Husky German Shepherd Size. What is the size of a typical Husky German Shepherd Mix? Expect the size to be from the smallest Siberian Husky to the biggest German Shepherd. A Siberian Husky is a medium-sized dog that usually grow up to around 20 to 23 inches in height. On the other hand, a German Shepherd is categorized as a large breed and can grow up to around 22 to 26 inches tall. So expect your Husky German Shepherd Mix to be between 20 and 26 inches tall. When talking about weight, Siberian Huskies weigh between 35 and 60 pounds, while German Shepherds are much heavier at around 49 to 88 pounds. So perhaps the weight of a Husky German Shepherd Mix will be from 35 to 88 pounds. This can also be due the gender of the dog. The most common color combinations are brown-black and white-black. The color of you German Shepherd and Husky Mix is simply a product of genetics. These dogs are: Good guard dogs. They inherited this characteristic from their parents. But they can be excessive barkers. Compared to some other breeds, they learn things quickly because of their higher cognitive abilities. They will always put you first before themselves. They are well-loved because they are affectionate. Be prepared to pet them all day long. These dogs mix well with other pets and with people. They are trusting. These dogs may be naughty at times, but they are very dignified. Active and powerful. They are energetic and need regular training and exercise. They need at least one walk every day. They are the ultimate dogs! They are known for their energy. They get bored and sometimes mischievous when they lack physical and mental stimulation. As mentioned before, this hybrid is also intelligent, loyal, playful, and very trainable. A Husky German Shepherd Mix is an alpha dog and may get somewhat aggressive or do naughty things if its owner is not firm. On the other hand, your dog may inherit the calm and gentle behavior of the Siberian Husky. A Husky German Shepherd Mix with this demeanor can be clingy with their owner. This hybrid loves to take part in various activities with you. Some owners let their friends engage in fieldwork, herding, and the likes, but these dogs will also have fun playing outdoors, jogging, walking, and hiking. While the Husky German Shepherd mix is friendly, warming up to other dogs and strangers may take time. And since the coat is super fluffy, it mats and tangles easily. So, regular grooming of your dog is necessary to prevent matting. Brush your German Shepherd Husky mix several times a week. On top of this, take your dog to a qualified groomer every two months. Remember, start grooming your pups from an early age so they get used to the process. Bathe your dog when needed. Ear check Wax may build up in the ears of German Shepherd Husky mixes fairly often. You should clean their ears carefully using a dog-friendly cleaning solution and cotton balls or cotton buds. This will keep the ear canal clean and reduce ear odors. Remove these parasites in their entirety to reduce discomfort and risk of infection. Dental hygiene The dental hygiene of your German Shepherd Husky mix is also an important part of their grooming process. Also, this dog needs high-quality dry food to keep its gums healthy and strong. Nail grooming In addition to the abovementioned grooming requirements, also make sure that the nails of your German Shepherd Husky mix are trimmed or groomed regularly. This activities is often stressful for the dog. This is because new genes are introduced to the existing pool, strengthening and widening it. However, even a hybrid dog like a German Shepherd mixed with Husky can inherit health conditions from one or both of their parents. This hybrid lives between 10 to 13 years, and during this lifespan, they can develop different health issues. These include: Elbow and hip dysplasia. Problem in the formation of the joints, which usually results into painful arthritis. Juvenile cataracts. The opacity of the lens of the eyes of the dog, which often causes blindness. Corneal dystrophy The accumulation of abnormal materials in the cornea, causing visual impairment. Progressive retinal atrophy PRA. This happens in the twilight years, with symptoms including night blindness, dilated pupils, inability to see in bright light. Bloating of the stomach, which results in the stomach twisting around itself. Failure to produce enough enzymes necessary for digesting meals. Excessive bleeding caused by a defective platelet functioning. Cancer is prevalent in this hybrid. Anal furunculosis. This is an inflammatory bone disease. German Shepherd Huskies are particularly at risk of airborne, contact, and food allergies. A neurological disorder causing uncontrolled seizures and loss of consciousness. This is perhaps the most frightening thing that can happen to this dog. Impaired thyroid function, dwarfism, footpad disorders, nasal cavity tumors, and eczema German Shepherd Mix With Husky Food Recommendations In terms of its dietary needs, the strong and athletic Husky German Shepherd Mix requires a high-protein diet. Provide a diet that is rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Be careful with foods that contain common allergens such as lamb and egg Give your dog supplements depending on the age of the mix. German Shepherd Mixes are picky eaters, so look for a brand that matches the needs of your dog and try to stick with it. These dogs have a high risk for digestive diseases. So, you must ask your vet for recommendations. The first step is to provide them with balanced nutrition by making sure you opt for best dry dog food, which you can also find in Wellness Core Dog Food , Dog For Dog Food , or Nutra Thrive dog food supplement. Prior to making any change in their diet plan, consult with your vet. If your buddy is older, try to get any formula from the best senior dry dog food list that will help extend their lifespan. Puppy pups have a bit different diet requirements and you can find the top-quality food for your little companions in the best puppy food brands list. Their parents are working dogs, so they have unparalleled energy and can engage in physical activities without getting tired. What they need is a regular exercise to maintain and improve their strength and endurance. Your dog needs some off-leash time. Dog parks and fenced yards are great places for this. A Husky mixed with German Shepherd that is free to play stays happy. Playing also mentally stimulates the dog. They will increasingly become frustrated and use their intelligence to do naughty things around your house: digging up, chewing on furniture and other things, non-stop howling, and trying to escape. What stimulation or exercise your dogs need depends upon their motivation and temperament. German Shepherd and Husky Mix Training Suggestions A fairly intelligent breed interested in learning and in caring for their owner, a German Shepherd and Husky Mix is relatively easy to train. Not properly trained, these dogs can acquire habits that make the owners clench their teeth pull their hair out. From howling too much to knocking things over to chewing on shoes, there are many things you must keep your dog from doing. A German Shepherd and Husky Mix is very sensitive to vocal commands, making the training process more efficient and much easier. Start obedience training at an early age to prevent annoying habits from developing, and so that you and your pup both can live a happy life together. However, it has a predatory nature, and without proper socialization or training, it might get inro trouble with rodent-type pets or even cats. They can also be extremely overprotective of children and other members of the family. If they feel that the humans they love are in danger, they may attack strangers, so watch them for this kind of behavior. We all know that every dog is unique, so you must socialize them correctly to prevent any untoward incidents. Known to be intelligent and extremely loyal, the German Shepherd Husky Mix is a fun loving, sweet, and pleasant dog. It is great service or companion dog for the family. Getting a dog with a Siberian Husky or a German Shepherd descent can break the bank for many first-time owners. Lucky for them, the Siberian Husky German Shepherd is a relatively affordable dog. Be warned, though. Proper breeding costs a lot of money when it comes to veterinary care, health screening, vaccinations, flea treatments, deworming, and many other procedures to ensure that the puppy is healthy. While herding dogs were being bred in Germany throughout the 19th century, the first formally recognized German Shepherd was registered by Max von Stephanitz in .The dog, named Horand von Grafrath, was the result of several generations of selective breeding to create a working dog ideal for herding sheep. The German Shepherd has a very forceful bite, and they are often mischaracterized as aggressive and likely to harm humans. However, while German Shepherds are responsible for a large number of canine attacks on humans, this is largely due to their popularity as pets and how abundant they are rather than any natural, breed-specific aggression. German Shepherds are actually considered great family pets, and they are known to be very good with children, though they can also be somewhat overprotective. .The Siberian Husky, in contrast, comes from Northeastern Asia where they were bred by the Chukchi people of Siberia to pull sleds. The result is an active breed with a lot of endurance that just loves to run. These dogs do very well in cold climates, and they were introduced to Alaska around as part of the Alaskan Nome Gold Rush. While you will still find these dogs working in some frozen terrains, they are now popular household pets. While they are energetic, friendly, and excellent with children, they are also troublemakers if not trained and socialized properly. They enjoy digging, chewing, jumping, and generally escaping any kind of confined space. Both dogs are of a similar size and have a wolf-like appearance, which is part of what made them prime candidates for crossbreeding. What Are Crossbred Dogs? It is worth noting that crossbred dogs, sometimes called designer dogs, are dogs that have been intentionally bred by mixing two or more recognized breeds. It is not a term for dogs bred accidentally or without purebred ancestors. However, crossbred dogs are not recognized as separate breeds in their own right, so their behavior and characteristics are not as predictable as purebred dogs. One of the advantages of purebred dogs is that it is relatively easy to predict their size, appearance, and temperament. Gerberian Shepsky Appearance As both German Shepherds and Siberian Huskies are medium-sized dogs with a wolf-like appearance, you can expect similar traits from their offspring. German Shepherds tend to be considered medium-to-large-sized dogs. Males typically measure 24 to 26 inches in height at the withers, and the females are usually a bit smaller at 22 to 24 inches. However, both sexes tend to look bigger than other dogs of a similar height, as they have very long necks. Siberian Huskies are a bit smaller, measuring between 19 and 24 inches and weighing between 35 and 60 pounds on average. The females are at the smaller end of the spectrum, and the males are at the larger end. As a result, you can expect Shepskies to be around the smaller range for German Shepherds, with males ranging from 22 to 25 inches and females ranging from 20 to 24 inches in height. When it comes to their weight, males tend to be between 50 to 80 pounds, while females weigh a bit less at 40 to 70 pounds. Shepsky puppies tend to have a distinctive wolf-like appearance, with pointed ears and long noses inherited from both parents. Their eyes will either be brown or blue, and some individuals might have the distinctive dual eye color often associated with huskies. Both parent breeds have a coat ideal for colder climates, so this is something that can be expected from their offspring. They typically have a dual coat with a dense, soft undercoat and another layer of more durable guard hairs on top. As German Shepherds can have either medium-to-long outer coats, the same is true of their Gerberian Shepsky offspring. They are almost never one solid color and will almost always be a mix of at least two different colors. One thing you can expect from all Shepsky coats is that they will be high shedding. Anyone with an allergy to dog hair should be wary about adopting a Shepsky! Gerberian Shepsky Temperament German Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs, and they are also highly motivated to please, which makes them one of the most trainable dog breeds out there. This quality is also why they are such good working dogs. Siberian Huskies are also very intelligent, but they are far more independent. They have been bred to make challenging decisions while running across dangerous arctic territories, so problem-solving is a necessary skill. As a result, while your Shepsky will almost certainly be a very intelligent dog, they might be a bit more troublesome to train than a German Shepherd. Alternatively, they might choose to entertain themselves by digging or chewing. Both breeds were created to spend a lot of time with humans, with Huskies often staying indoors with their families for warmth. This means they tend to bond quickly with their people and are very good with smaller family members though very small children should never be left unsupervised with any dog. While German Shepherds tend to have guard dog-like protective instincts, Huskies are pack animals and enjoy the company of other dogs. So, it is difficult to predict whether your Shepsky crossbreed will display more alpha-like behavior or be more submissive and play well with other pets. Remember, proper socialization training can go a long way when it comes to ensuring that they play well with others regardless of their temperament. Neither parent breed tends to bark excessively, but your Shepsky will get vocal if they want to alert you to a threat. Huskies tend to howl rather than bark, so keep in mind you might end up with a Shepsky with an adorable howl that may disturb the neighbors. If you do find yourself with a barker, read our guide on dealing with excessive or nuisance barking. Overall, expect your dog to be high energy, combining the herding instinct of a German Shepherd with the running mandate of a Siberian Husky. Caring For A German Shepherd Husky Mix Shepskies tend to be highly trainable, so an experienced dog owner should be able to train them at home using basic positive reinforcement training. Shepskies do best when they have a large backyard where they can spend their energy. Remember, they can be escape artists, which means they need a space that is securely fenced. Fences at least six feet tall are recommended. In addition to having plenty of space, Shepskies need a lot of exercise. They should be taken outside at least twice a day for a minimum of minutes at a time. Dog parks where they can run around off-leash are ideal, as it lets them stretch their legs and burn off excess energy. Just make sure they have been properly socialized before letting them loose. They are not ideal pets for people who spend most of the week in the office or traveling for work. Expect your Shepsky to engage in destructive behavior when they are feeling the stress of abandonment. Shepskies tend to have fairly dry coats. Huskies do not have oily coats, and they will often pass this trait down to their crossbred children. Avoid excessive washing to prevent drying them out further. Regular brushing is advisable to remove shedding hair, since these dogs tend to shed a lot. This is both for their comfort and to make cleanup around the home a little more manageable for you. Shepsky Health Concerns Shepskies have a relatively long lifespan for dogs of their size, and you can expect them to live for around 10 to 14 years. Shepskies can develop joint conditions, particularly in their elbows and hips, which can lead to pain and discomfort moving as they age. Adequate exercise and an orthopedic bed that allows them to take the pressure off their joints are both useful tools in preventing these issues. This unique crossbreed can also be prone to developing eye conditions such as canine glaucoma, corneal dystrophy, juvenile cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. Losing at least some of their eyesight in later life is a common concern. German Shepherd Husky mixes are also slightly more susceptible to developing epilepsy than most other breeds, though the condition is still relatively rare. Medications exist to help manage this condition. This can be prevented with regular cleaning and maintenance. You might be able to find a Gerberian Shepsky in a local shelter to adopt for a small fee, or you can opt to find a dedicated Shepsky breeder. Do Gerberian Shepskies shed a lot? Yes, German Shepherd Husky mixes shed a lot, and there is no getting around it. Both parent breeds have a thick winter coat that is prone to shedding, so this is a common characteristic in their offspring. If you are looking for a medium-sized low shedding dog, consider something with the Poodle breed in the mix, such as a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle. Poodles have a low-shedding coat that they typically pass on to their crossbred offspring. Do German Shepherd Husky mixes smell? Many Huskies pass on their low-oil coat to their crossbred offspring. If you do adopt a Shepsky, remember not to bathe your dog too regularly. The lack of oil can make them prone to having dry skin, and excessive washing can exacerbate this problem. Do Shepskies get cold? Siberian Huskies were bred to deal with extreme cold, and German Shepherds also have a thick coat to deal with colder temperatures. This means their offspring are very well insulated against the cold, and you will almost never have to worry about them being uncomfortable in colder temperatures. Overheating, however, can be an issue, so always carry water when you go out. You will probably find that your Shepsky prefers to relax in cool, shady areas. What is an Alusky? This is a very popular designer breed, as they often have distinctive black and white patterning as well as an overall wolf-like appearance. What dog breeds are commonly mixed with Huskies? As well as German Shepherds, you will find a number of other dog breeds that make a good mix with a Husky. The Verdict On Shepskies If you are looking for a fun and energetic dog that will make a great addition to a boisterous and adventurous family, then a German Shepherd Husky mix can be a great choice. Shepskies are very family-friendly pets that are loyal and highly trainable, but they also need lots of love and attention to keep them healthy and happy. They have a distinctive wolf-like appearance, but are far from aggressive and are generally very good with children. However, they are known for their delightful wolf-like howl. Remember that crossbreed dogs are always somewhat unpredictable in their appearance and temperament, so ensure that you meet the dog you plan on adopting first before deciding whether to add them to your family. Shepskies are best for people who have quite a bit of space for their dog to play and usually have someone to keep them company at home. You will enjoy training your Shepsky yourself if you have a bit of experience with dogs, but steer clear if you have allergies, as they are big shedders! Do you have any experience raising a German Shepherd Husky mix? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist.

As such, they are recognized experts in facts and figures for many breeds of dogs. According to their data, most labrador litters contain between five and ten puppies, with the average being seven. In comparison to all dog breeds, Labradors are right in the middle. The average size of a litter of puppies, in general, is five or six dogs. The largest known litter of labradors ever recorded was 14 puppies , born to a black labrador in the United Kingdom in .Labradors are huge fans of babies as they age. Active families love a Lab! In short, probably not. Your vet can confirm pregnancy, give an estimate of how far along the pregnancy is, and give you an approximate due date. Humans and canines alike know the excitement of a first pregnancy. When it comes to labradors, this can also impact the size of the litter. Biological and evolutionary factors come into play and make first litters smaller. Expect one or two additional puppies from her first two. After the fourth pregnancy, the litter size tends to taper off. In addition to whether or not it is her first litter, the age of the mother labrador also affects the size of the litter. Generally speaking, the older the mother, the smaller the litter size. This fact is a little confusing, though, when you also consider that first litters are smaller. It means that a 3-year-old labrador will have larger litters than a 5- or 6-year-old labrador. So, if two female labradors have their third litter at ages four and six, the four-year-old labrador is likely to have the larger litter of the two. How Old is Dad? Believe it or not, the age of the father of the puppies can also impact the size of the litter. This is because of the viability of his sperm. When a female dog is in heat, her ovaries release several eggs that are ready for fertilization. However, if the male dog is older, his sperm tends to be less vigorous, meaning fewer will reach the eggs, and therefore fewer eggs will be fertilized, resulting in smaller litter size. A Labrador lounges on his dog bed Natural versus Artificial Insemination How did the mother dog become pregnant? Many labrador breeders and breeders for other types of dogs, as well prefer artificial insemination. It also takes the social interactions of the two dogs out of the equation. Some dog handlers and breeders hesitate to put their mama dogs in such a sensitive and potentially unpredictable situation. The bad news is that, while artificial insemination seems to be the more controlled and safe option, it usually yields fewer puppies. Of course, the breed of the dog is a significant factor in genetics. Does the Size of the Mom Matter? Not really. If you have a mom who is part labrador herself or is a purebred labrador but has puppies with another breed, some of these numbers and averages change. If your pregnant pooch is only part labrador, the size of her litter will also depend on what other breeds she contains. The general rule of thumb is that the larger the breed, the larger the litter. If your lab is a part German shepherd , expect a somewhat bigger litter. The breed of the father matters less, though. The breed of the father has more to do with the size of each individual puppy. Fun fact: the largest known litter of puppies ever recorded is a whopping .Unsurprisingly, the 15 male and nine female puppies were born to a Neopolitan Mastiff in , one of the most giant breeds around. Do Labs like water? Healthy dogs tend to produce larger litters. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. In this article How to determine your Labrador's litter size As we've said, the number of puppies inside a Labrador's belly varies greatly. Your pet can have anywhere from one to over twelve puppies. The average litter size is five to ten, but it is heavily influenced by several factors more on that later. Your veterinarian can actually help you find out exactly how many puppies there are inside a Lab's uterus. They can take X-rays of the pregnant female and count the skeletons of pups in her belly. This is an acceptable way to determine litter size in dogs. You have to wait until six weeks of pregnancy for puppies' skeletal system to develop. Ultrasound scans and abdominal palpation are other ways to estimate litter size. What is the average litter size for Labs? In , a comprehensive study was performed to answer the question of litter size in dogs. The researchers analyzed breeds and more than 10, litters, and they calculated the average litter size to be 5. However, there was a clear difference between miniature and large breeds. The former only had 3. The above research is for all dog breeds. But the AKC analyzed over 85, Labrador litters to conclude that Labs have a typical range of five to ten puppies, with an average of 7. So we can safely say that Labradors, being a large breed, will likely have a larger litter size. Though cases of producing just a puppy or two are not unheard of. Overall, if you have a pregnant Lab mother, expect her to give birth to about half a dozen babies. The biggest Labrador litter on record Now you know how many puppies to expect when your Lab gets pregnant. And you're probably wondering, "But what's the maximum they can pop out? Back in , when a black Scottish Labrador named Anne was pregnant, the vet predicted that she would have three to six puppies. Little did they know, the proud mama kept popping out babies one after the other until there were 15 of them! A more recent case was reported a few months back in April .Here, A Labrador called Bella produced 14 fur babies, just one shy of the record set in .The labor lasted for seven hours, and Bella gave birth to eight black and six yellow Labs. Fun fact: Anne's 15 kids are a lot, but the Guinness World Record for most puppies is set by Tia, a Neapolitan mastiff. She gave birth to 24 puppies in November .Of course, she couldn't do it all by herself and had to take the help of a Cesarean section. Factors affecting Labrador litter size Many variables influence how many puppies Labradors have. In this section, we'll talk about some of the crucial ones. But several other factors such as breeding management, reproductive history, and season also play a role. Even the environment she lives in affects her well-being and, consequently, the health and number of her babies. Much of the information here is sourced from an article published by Dr. Bretaigne Jones for Royal Canin. Age Labradors usually remain fertile for their entire lives. However, as you might imagine, their litter size decreases as they get older. As a general rule, Labs are most fertile between the ages of two to five. However, regardless of her age, a dog's first litter is usually smaller than the future ones. After the first one, the number of puppies increases with every litter, through the fourth litter. Then, it starts declining steadily. A Labrador will have her first heat cycle anytime after she's six months old. But you should never breed a Lab during her first heat cycle, as she's relatively young at this point. Imposing the stress of pregnancy and lactation can have adverse effects on the mother's mental health. Just like very old females, too young mothers also produce smaller litters. This is why the AKC recommends waiting for the third heat cycle, which means not breeding until the female Lab is months old. Lastly, the male Lab's age also affects the litter size. But the influence is much less than the female's age. As a male Lab gets older, his sperm count and quality decrease. He will produce larger litters under the age of five. Breed Size We've already discussed that smaller breeds tend to produce fewer puppies, and larger breeds have a bigger litter size. This trend is seen even within the same breed. A Labrador weighing 45 pounds 20 kg may only produce five or six babies, while a pound 32 kg Lab may give birth to a litter of ten puppies or more. Again, these are only generalizations based on the data available about Labrador puppies, which means there will be exceptions. You can have a relatively small Lab giving birth to nine or ten pups every litter. Health and Nutrition This one is a no-brainer. If your Lab is happy and healthy, she'll give birth to more puppies, and the babies born will be healthier as well. The mother needs to be in perfect health so that she and her pups survive the birthing and whelping process. Not only the female but the male Lab should also be healthy if you want to avoid complications. Nutrition is crucial for your Labs throughout their entire lives. And when it comes to breeding, diet directly affects the litter size. Both male and female Labs will produce healthier and larger litters if they've been fed a high-quality diet. Check out my Recommended Products for foods that I recommend, including custom fresh food solutions. Gene Pool Diversity Breeding two dogs from diverse genetic backgrounds results in bigger litters. Similarly, the smaller the gene pool is, the fewer puppies your Lab will have. Gene pool is smaller when closely related dogs brothers and sisters, fathers and daughters, etc. The more dogs are bred from the same line, the smaller the litter will be. This process of mating such dogs is known as inbreeding. We can measure the gene pool diversity using the coefficient of inbreeding, a numerical value ranging from zero not inbred at all to one completely inbred. Other Factors to Consider Apart from the things we discussed, litter size is also affected by: Type of breeding: Natural breeding results in more puppies than artificial insemination AI. Using AI can decrease the litter size by as much as 15 percent. Season: Usually, if a Lab gives birth in spring, she produces more puppies. But if the breeding takes place in summer, the litter size is smaller. Mating frequency: Litter size is smaller if the female is bred only once. So it's recommended to mate the Labs every other day until the female refuses to mate. What can you do to increase litter size in Labradors? While litter size is mostly out of our control, optimal conditions can increase how many puppies Labradors have. The first thing you should do is feed your Labs a healthy diet throughout their lives. There's no reason to spend extra money on grain-free food because dogs' evolution has given them the ability to digest grains easily. Just make sure you're feeding them one of the high-quality kibbles available in the market. Apart from a healthy diet, you should also give her enough playtime and exercise to maintain her ideal body weight. For female Labradors, it's lbs. Pregnancy drains the mother's body of protein, vitamins, minerals, and energy. You need to satisfy her dietary needs with food rich in fats and carbohydrates. Feeding a low-carb diet during pregnancy leads to increased fetal death and stillbirths. Consult your vet and make sure her diet includes enough vitamins, amino acids, minerals, omega-3 acids, antioxidants, and dietary fiber. As the mother nears the last three weeks of pregnancy, her dietary needs will increase significantly. This is because the embryonic puppies gain 75 percent of their body weight during this period. Depending on the litter size, she may need one and a half to two times her typical requirement for these few weeks. Control inbreeding risk Another thing you control is the coefficient of inbreeding. We've seen that mating closely related Labs results in decreased litter size. So it's the breeder's responsibility to choose suitable Labradors to pair. It would be best if the male and female Lab's last three ancestors are unrelated. Lastly, you can give your Lab lots of love and attention. She's going through a challenging period, and it's up to you to support her. Doing this doesn't directly increase the litter size, but it keeps the mother happy and enhances her well-being. So go and scratch her behind the ears! The One-Half Rule This is a general rule that's usually followed by all mammals. It states that a mother will produce half as many babies as there are nipples on her. Sounds interesting, right? Statistics back this rule. Most female dogs have eight to ten nipples, and as we've seen, the average litter size is 5. Humans, of course, have two. Most mothers give birth to one child at a time, but they may also produce twins occasionally. While it does happen, having more than two babies is rare among humans because nature tries to ensure enough nutrition and nourishment for all the babies. Now don't start counting your Lab's nipples! This is simply a statistical correlation; it's not a method you can use to predict litter size. The best way to determine litter size is to take your Lab to the vet. How often do Labradors produce puppies? As we've discussed, female dogs can go into heat anytime after they're six months old. After the first heat cycle, they will typically go into heat twice a year, which means they can produce puppies every six months. However, many breeders and veterinarians advise against breeding continuously. They contend that it's hard on the mother's body and decreases the litter size. Accordingly, they allow their female Lab to breed every other heat cycle, which means the mother will give birth to one litter per year. Others, including one I spoke with on the issue, contend that breeding back to back has physiological benefits for mothers, citing commentary from Dr. Robert Van Hutchinson, a well renowned veterinarian and reproduction specialist. In an online reproduction seminar , Dr. Hutchinson explained that the female's progesterone levels remain elevated for 60 days during ovulation - regardless of pregnancy. This causes severe stress to the uterine lining, and can lead to long term health issues. Therefore, skipping seasons prolongs this activity as opposed to breeding season after season and retiring the mother early. How many puppies Labs have in their lifetime As we've discussed, a Lab goes into heat twice every year, which means she can give birth to a litter every six months. Suppose a female starts breeding when she's two years old and continues doing so until she's eight. In that case, she would produce 13 litters over her lifetime. We've also seen that the average number of pups a Labrador produces is 7. We know that litter size is affected by several factors and does not stay the same throughout the years. But for argument's sake, let's say our female Lab continues to give birth to seven kids during every heat cycle. So theoretically, a Labrador can give birth to over 90 puppies in her lifetime. How long are Labradors pregnant? When measured from the date of ovulation, gestation lasts for days. Since it's difficult to determine the date of ovulation, you cannot know precisely how long your Lab will be pregnant. This is because male sperm can live for 10 to 11 days in the uterine tubes of the female dog. However, for the most part, you should expect your Lab's gestation period to last for two months, or maybe slightly longer. Signs of pregnancy in a Labrador As we've discussed, Labs' gestation period is only about two months. So you don't have a lot of time to notice and interpret the signs. Many pet owners are shocked to find their Lab pregnant in the final days of her pregnancy. Below are some signs of pregnancy in Labradors. If you start to notice them in your female dog, it could be that she's about to give birth to little fur babies. Your dog becomes exhausted quickly or spends more time sleeping Loss of appetite early stages or increased appetite later stages She becomes more affectionate, seeking extra attention, and wanting to stay beside you Appearing lethargic or depressed and just want to be left alone all the time There's mucus discharge from her vulva occurs about a month after mating Her nipples' size or color changes happens about a month after mating Her abdomen size increases noticeable after 40 days She gains weight starts happening around day 35 Of course, the best way to determine whether your Lab is pregnant is to take her to a vet. They will perform one of several diagnostic tests to determine if she will become a mother. Abdominal palpation, ultrasound scan, witness relaxing test, and X-rays are the most common ways to check pregnancy. Final thoughts Breeding Labradors isn't an easy task. You have to invest time and effort to take care of the mother and her puppies properly. Labs usually have five to ten babies per litter, and the average litter size seems to be 7. Factors like the mother's age, health, diet, and the coefficient of inbreeding affect how many puppies Labradors have. We can also influence the litter size to some extent by making sure the female Lab is healthy and by selecting unrelated dogs for mating. Many breeders mate their Labradors every other heat cycle once a year ; others believe back-to-back breeding to be most effective. If your vet isn't concerned or dwarfism isn't an issue in her lineage I wouldn't be either. Like most larger dog breeds labs can take a while to 'fill out', per se. It's totally normal for labs to go through an awkward adolescent phase where they are horribly lanky. I wouldn't worry too much about her weight either, obviously as long as your vet is fine with it. At 1-year-old Teller only weighed 45 lbs but had reached his full adult height of 24" at the withers, he had a huge head, huge paws, and a supermodel waist. Seriously, he looked more deer than dog. I was worried he would look like that forever he's my first big dog but the vet and trainer assured me he would grow into his body. A year later he had put on 30 lbs of substance! If anyone told me my greyhound-looking lab pup would turn into a solid chap, I'd have looked at them like they had 2 heads. She should be of a similar size to her parents and any previous litters they had if any. Is she from show or working lines? Working lines tend to produce more athletic-looking leaner dogs than show lines and those bred as plain ol' pets can go either way. I've seen some lab bitches out of field champions that are only 50 lbs or so and others that are closer to 70 lbs. However big she ends up being, I'm sure she will be a great girl! That's my boy at 1 year. God, he was so awkward lol. That's him at 2. Black Labrador retriever named Zola, 4, delivered ten pups who are a mixture of three different colors — only seen on a "handful" of occasions before. Over the years, they bred a mixture of yellow, chocolate, and black Labs and decided to strategically mix doggy DNA to produce a litter of all three. They have used Wylanbria Kennels as their stud farm from the moment they started breeding. Diana Stevens, 47, the farm's owner, worked with them to breed a line of stud dogs with whom their female Labs could successfully produce a mixed litter. Zola was impregnated by Stevens' black Labrador Rocks, 3, who was also uniquely bred to carry all three color genes. SWNS It took over a decade to combine the correct genes on both sides to make it happen, and even then, the chances were still slim. The ten adorable pups — two yellow, three chocolate, and five black — were born on October 18 and are all matched with permanent loving homes. Last week, Zola went into labor, and Davis told SWNS she had her fingers crossed that this would be the litter that she'd both been waiting for — and wish was granted. The couple has a huge waiting list of families keen to get one of their pups. Zola had a tricky pregnant experience with her rarer litter — culminating in her delivering the puppies via C-section — so Davis has decided not to breed her anymore. In a few years, Davis plans to breed from one of Zola's daughters, which will give her the freedom to choose between each color combination. Related Articles. But what if you have a Lab that has recently given birth to only 2 puppies? Is that normal for Labradors, or should it be a cause for concern? The larger the breed, the more likely the litter will be bigger, but a healthy Lab can also have a small litter. The rest of this article will go into Labrador litter sizes in greater detail. Keep reading to learn more about this exciting subject! The breed of the mother is another factor to consider. Make sure to keep your puppies warm during the first few weeks. If the mother has previously had larger litters, she may be confused or distressed due to having such a small litter this time around. You should also stay close to her if she seems highly distressed. Littermates Are Important for Puppy Development During the first few weeks of life, puppies learn basic social skills by playing and play-biting each other. The mother will scold puppies for being too aggressive and teach them manners. Feeding your Lab a healthy diet will also increase the chances of a big litter. After seven years old, having a small litter becomes more common in Labradors and all dogs. Although it may not seem like it, keeping your Labrador healthy and active will also increase its chances of having many puppies. A healthy Labrador will have a more muscular body, so carrying a big litter will be easier. Litter Size Occurs Naturally You can do certain things to make it more likely for your Labrador to have a bigger litter, but it may not always work. Or she may be too young or too old! Many small dog breeds are likely to have small litters, such as Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Dachshunds, and Yorkshire terriers. Typically, Labs will always have many more puppies than a Pomeranian. Jack Russels, for example, are a small breed, but their average litter size is six. Six is a big number, considering how tiny Jack Russels are! A healthy Labrador between 2 and 5 years old has the best chance of having a big litter. Smaller litters need extra help to stay warm due to the lack of warmth from littermates.

Breeds The link has been copied! Few dogs are as intelligent and loyal as German Shepherds. With its athletic build and remarkable drive, this working breed makes excellent companions, herding dogs, police K-9s, and therapy animals. How much does a German Shepherd cost? The price of a German Shepherd puppy can vary a lot from one breeder to another. German Shepherds are active and need plenty of stimulation. Flea and tick preventatives are a must-have. You might face additional costs such as pet insurance, training classes, boarding fees, or dog walkers. Puppies tend to cost more due to the high demand. However, professional breeders charge a lot more. Professional breeders usually conduct health testing for the parents. Elbow and hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy are the two main tests to look for when adopting a GSD puppy. Prenatal care for the mother can be expensive. These costs can include bloodwork, ultrasounds, and X-rays. Most breeders raise the puppies for the first eight to 12 weeks. They provide nutrition, a living space, socialization, and sometimes early training. Puppies typically receive veterinary care, including a first round of booster shots and a deworming treatment. Colors German Shepherds can come in a few different colors. Black and tan and black and cream are the most common GSD colors. However, there are rarer colors, like black and silver, sable, or black. These colors meet the official breed standards, and a puppy with an unusual color can be worth more. Bloodline and Purity One of the key factors that influences the cost of a GSD puppy is the parents and their pedigrees. A breeder will look at how well the parents match the AKC breed standards. Both parents should be the right height and color. They should have a muscular morphology and the proper head shape. Breeders who are able to trace the ancestry of a litter over several generations and document that all the ancestors are purebred GSDs will charge more. You should also expect to pay more if a breeder can provide health testing information over several generations. Titles are another important factor. Show dogs can receive V, VA, or VA1 titles if they do well at an event and judges determine they meet all the standards of the breed. An IGP3 title indicates that a dog can protect its owner. Parents with IGP or IPO titles produce puppies that are worth more since breeders consider these animals to have excellent potential for training. A breeder who has an excellent reputation and many positive online reviews will attract more prospective dog owners and can afford to charge more. You can protect your dog with a microchip, but there are other steps you can take. The Fi GPS tracking dog collar helps you keep your dog safe. The design is highly resistant and waterproof for durability, and the collar comes with a battery that lasts three months. You can track your pet anywhere and locate them easily if they get lost. There are a few things you should know about this working breed. Personality of the German Shepherd German Shepherds are fiercely loyal. They make excellent guard dogs thanks to their protective instincts. They also make amazing pets who will give you lots of affection. GSDs are reliable and hardworking dogs who thrive if you constantly give them new tasks and challenges. These dogs are extremely versatile. German Shepherds have amazing potential and tend to do extremely well in training thanks to their drive and intelligence. However, they require consistent training and handling since they can be mouthy, chase prey, or become overprotective without the right training. Size and Weight German Shepherds are medium to large dogs. When it comes to weight, a healthy male will weigh 66 to 88 lbs. Lifestyle and Activity Levels German Shepherds are a working breed. Their origin dates back to the 19th century when dog breeder Max Von Stephanitz developed a new dog by breeding different herding dogs. Like all shepherds, GSDs have a strong need to stay active. Due to their athletic build, these dogs need at least two hours of exercise every day. Going for walks might not be sufficient. Your GSD will thrive if you provide plenty of opportunities to use their athletic abilities, including jumping, swimming, or running. Approximate Lifetime Care Costs The total cost of owning a German Shepherd is difficult to estimate since every animal is different. German Shepherds can be expensive. Here are a few tips to help you lower the cost. Look for a breeder who cares about the animals and who does health testing on the parents, but everything else is extra. You should also consider adopting a dog with an unknown lineage. Check local shelters or go online to look at classified ads. Check classified ads to find owners rehoming their pets. If you decide to get a German Shepherd, think about using the Fi GPS dog collar to keep your dog safe, and make sure you can bring your puppy home if she gets lost. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Apart from recurring costs such as dog food, toys, and grooming essentials, a great chunk of your finances must go to routine veterinary care and pet insurance. Annual check-ups should be done on adult German Shepherds to check their physical condition and ensure they are healthy dogs. This involves listening to the heart and checking the ears and eyes. The typical lifespan of a GSD is 7 to 10 years. Other Potential Expenses Owning a dog is already comparable to parenthood. German Shepherds, much like any other dog breed, have other needs that go beyond food, water, and shelter. Your dog will be watched over, fed, and socialized with other dogs. Grooming Services: For your GSD to have a well-maintained coat and appearance, you should take them to a professional grooming salon. They will be cleaned, trimmed, and pampered as they deserve. Emergency Treatment: Dogs grow up so fast. As your German Shepherd puppy gets older, they are more prone to health issues like hip dysplasia. Sudden injuries can also happen that will require immediate medical attention and treatment. This will allow them to join various dog shows and other competitions. Places to Find German Shepherd Puppies for Sale and Adoption Once you plan everything out financially, you are ready to find places where you can buy your German Shepherd puppy. Cheap German Shepherd dogs can be bought from puppy mills or a backyard breeder. Buying from responsible breeders is the best option to get healthy puppies that will grow up to be strong adult dogs. To help on your quest, here is a list of breeders certified by the American Kennel Club that offer high-quality German Shepherd puppies: Vom Ragnar German Shepherds — This is a small kennel located in Illinois dedicated to breeding show-quality German Shepherds with sound temperament and the best condition because they have their puppies undergo health testing. This breeder strives to match their GSD pups to the most suited families. Mittelwest German Shepherds — As a well-renowned breeder, the owner ensures that they only produce show-quality German Shepherd puppies that can serve as show dogs, guard dogs, K-9, and much more. They also import and ship their dogs worldwide. West Coast German Shepherds — If you are located in California, this breeder can offer you a health-tested German Shepherd puppy coming from the best bloodlines. Buying the cheapest puppies online seems tempting, especially if you are on a budget, but you might spend more in the future due to medical expenses. To easily distinguish a responsible breeder from a puppy mill or backyard breeder, check out our puppy buying guide. Are you considering adopting a German Shepherd instead of buying from a breeder? If you are, this list can help you find the perfect GSD pup for you: German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions — Based in North Carolina, this non-profit organization was established to protect and promote the German Shepherd breed. German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County — This volunteer organization is all about placing unwanted, neglected, and abused German Shepherds into permanent, loving homes. Applicants are encouraged to meet up with their chosen dog prior to adoption. Matching their rescue dogs to a suitable owner is their top priority, along with the restoration of their health. For more chances of finding your lifelong companion, check out this list of the 10 best German Shepherd rescues. You can surely find one in your location! Adoption is the cheapest alternative to getting a German Shepherd Dog, and this is more suggested than buying from backyard breeders. Buy high-quality items. You will spend more on replacing them rather than having good products that can last for a longer time. Purchase supplies in bulk. When buying food or treats for your pup, make sure to stock up by buying them in bulk. This can save you a lot of money than buying small bags of kibble or cans of wet food. Keep your dog in excellent shape. To avoid expensive veterinary bills, keep your German Shepherd puppy fit and healthy. Do this by feeding them high-quality dog food equipped with the right nutrients. Groom your GSD at home. Instead of going to a professional groomer, learn to groom your German Shepherd puppy at home. All you need to do is buy the basic grooming tools and research how to groom your dog effectively. Plan your finances accordingly so no one will have to suffer in the long run. They are highly intelligent and loyal dogs that will protect you at all costs. Buying one from a reputable breeder is worth the hefty purchase price than purchasing from backyard breeders or puppy mills. On another note, you can adopt from a local rescue organization, but make sure to ask about any current health conditions that the dog may have. Aside from the financial aspect, make sure you are prepared for the full responsibility of being a German Shepherd puppy owner. Now you know how much German Shepherds cost, are you ready to own one? Share your thoughts in the comments below. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. German Shepherds are considered healthy dogs that can live many years. You must be able to pay for these dogs every month of their lives. For the most part, providing your dog with a lot of exercise and high-quality food will prevent the dog from developing unforeseen health issues. You will need to buy a dog-safe toothpaste, dog-safe shampoo, and certain medications, such as heartworm prevention, to keep your dog healthy its entire life. Not only do you have to feed your German Shepherd a lot of food, but you want to feed your dog food that is high quality and healthy. As long as your dog does not have any known illnesses or issues, you should not have to pay monthly prices. At the minimum, you should take your German Shepherd for an annual visit, assuming it is healthy. You also need to pay for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Most of these medications last for 1 to 3 months at a time. It is completely up to you whether or not you decide to get pet insurance. If you are interested in getting health insurance for your new pet, Lemonade offers customizable insurance plans and responsive customer service. If you do not want to pay for pet insurance, you can simply set up a savings account instead. So long as you have a house and a yard for your dog to play, the home environment is generally suitable for dogs. Some environmental maintenance things you will need to buy include doggie bags. You need these if you take your dog for a walk or if you have a yard that you have to maintain. You may also need to pay for carpet cleaner, deodorizer, and other items to keep the house clean, despite your heavy shedding German Shepherd. This means that your German Shepherd can help you out when you are in a pinch, but it also means that you need to provide your German Shepherd ample entertainment, or else your dog could become destructive. At the very minimum, you need to buy heavy-duty toys for your German Shepherd. German Shepherds can be really rough with their toys. So, we recommend some sort of brand specific for rough-playing dogs, such as Kong. These boxes will offer toys, treats, and more for your dog, but these boxes can be pretty expensive too. Additional Costs to Factor In In addition to initial costs and monthly payments, there are some other additional factors you need to think about. For starters, obedience training is really important for dogs of this size. Obedience training can be a bit expensive at first, but it will be worth it in the long run. You need to pay for a pet sitter or kennel whenever you go on vacations and your dog does not come with you. If you are buying a German Shepherd puppy, you may also have to pay to replace or fix items the puppy damages. Think about accidents or unforeseen illnesses too. These can cost a whole lot in vet visits. Owning a German Shepherd on a Budget If you want a German Shepherd but are worried about destroying your budget, there are ways that you can own one of these wonderful dogs without spending a fortune either. Unfortunately, there is little you can change about the price of these dogs up front, but you can save on the monthly expenses. The most important tip for taking care of a German Shepherd on a budget is to know when to splurge. When it comes to dog food, make sure to select high-quality food. This will be more expensive upfront, but it will ensure that your dog is healthy for as long as possible, resulting in fewer bills. Splurging on heavy-duty toys is another great idea. These toys will cost more at first, but they should last much longer than cheap ones. For instance, there are a lot of coupons and promo codes you can use when purchasing toys, food, and other items for your German Shepherd. Even if you find coupons, only spend money on the essentials. Not to mention, buy crates and beds that are suitable for the dog as it grows. Many people make the mistake of buying crates and beds suitable for the puppy, but the puppy soon outgrows them. The initial cost primarily accounts for the dog itself and any other items required when bringing the dog home for the first time. Even after the German Shepherd has made your home its home, you will still have to pay some pretty hefty bills for the remainder of its life. Although the initial and monthly costs for this dog are a bit high, they are required for this dog to live a happy life. If you cannot afford to provide a German Shepherd the sort of life it needs and deserves, simply do not get a German Shepherd. Less - The German Shepherds are medium to large-sized dogs , well-balanced, muscular dog, slightly longer than tall, with a medium length coat, erect ears, and a low-set natural tail that normally reaches to the hock and is carried in a slight curve like a saber. The outline of the German Shepherd Dog is made up of smooth curves rather than angles. The head is in proportion to the size of the body, strong without appearing coarse or fine. Gender differences are readily apparent. The German Shepherd Dog is confident and fearless, willing to be approached, yet a certain level of aloofness towards strangers is acceptable. When working, the German Shepherd is alert and eager, adapting well to new tasks. Lack of confidence is a serious defect in the character of a German Shepherd. The structure of this breed was designed for efficient locomotion, particularly at the trot, so poor movement is another serious fault. History Less - The German Shepherd Dog is a relatively young breed, developed almost single-handedly in the first half of the twentieth century by a German cavalry officer, Max von Stephanitz, president of the Verein far Deutsche Schaferhunde S. Using a variety of German sheepdogs as his foundation stock, von Stephanitz developed a distinctive breed in a very short period of time, due in large part to the authoritarian practices of the German dog fancy at that time. Von Stephanitz emphasized utility and intelligence in his breeding program, enabling the German Shepherd Dog to switch easily from herding duties to other fields of work, particularly military and police work. All things German were shunned and popularity slumped. After the war, however, movie star Rin-tin-tin stimulated interest in the breed again. The striking good looks of this breed, combined with its remarkable intelligence and loyalty, have made it a favorite working and companion dog. If your breeder had not run these genetic tests on your dog—or if you adopt a German Shepherd from a rescue or shelter, you can run the Embark Dog DNA Test using a simple saliva test you can perform at home. Dogs with CLAD, type III typically exhibit symptoms such as recurrent ear infections, skin infections, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections. Dogs with DM first lose coordination in their hind legs, then they lose muscle mass and eventually the ability to walk. It is caused by a lack of one of the proteins needed for blood to clot properly. Dogs with hemophilia A will often suffer from uncontrolled bleeding, most commonly into the joints. Uric acid is a waste product that is normally eliminated from the body through the kidneys. When the kidneys are not able to remove enough uric acid, it builds up in the blood and can cause health problems. Dogs with hyperuricosuria are at risk for developing bladder stones, kidney stones, and other health problems. P-glycoprotein is involved in the transport of drugs and other molecules across cell membranes. Drugs that are known to cause adverse reactions in MDR1 dogs include digoxin, ivermectin, loperamide, and milbemycin. There are several different types of MPS, each caused by a deficiency in a specific enzyme needed to break down mucopolysaccharides. It is caused by a genetic mutation that impairs the ability of the blood to clot properly. This can lead to frequent and sometimes severe bleeding events which can be difficult to control, even with the help of medications. Dogs with this condition are at an increased risk for bleeding and may require lifelong monitoring and medical management. Symptoms include weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, and increased water consumption. Affected dogs have problems with the development of their skin, hair, nails, and teeth. They may also have problems with sweating and the function of their tears and salivary glands. Dogs with this disorder usually have a very thin coat of hair, often with areas that are bald or have very thin hair. Their skin may be dry and cracked, and they may develop sores on their skin. Nails may be abnormally shaped or missing altogether, and teeth may be missing or poorly developed. Dogs with X-linked ectodermal dysplasia often experience overheating. Attend a sanctioned dog show and talk with breeders and competitors for recommendations. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations regarding reputable breeders. Check the Facebook page of the breeder and read through the comments. Remember, however, that comments can be deleted by the page owner. The breeder should be happy to share the name and contact information for customers. Ask questions. Lots of questions. The breeder should be glad to share the test results from the health tests and screenings and should be happy to let you meet at least the mother if not the sire as well of the German Shepherd Dog puppies. Ask how often the dogs are bred. Ask to tour the kennels. Are they well maintained? Do the dogs look healthy? Beware of operations that will not let you tour the kennels and breeders that want to meet you in a parking lot to hand over the puppy. Be prepared for questions. The breeder should ask YOU questions as well; be suspicious if the breeder has no questions about your past history with pets, your living situation, etc. The breeder should want to know how much experience you have with herding breeds, what your training plans are and your plans for exercising the dog. Ask if the breeder will take the German Shepherd puppy—or adult dog—back if necessary. Ask for a contract. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. German Shepherd breeders may adopt out of the area but, nonetheless, you will want to go to the breeder to meet the parents, view the kennels and bring home your puppy in person. This will add to your expenses—but breeders that transport a puppy by air are putting the dog at risk. If you want to buy a German Shepherd Dog from an online breeder, please think again. There are numerous scams; people spend thousands of dollars for a dog and never receive a puppy. AKC warns potential pet parents to be wary of any seller asking for payment by Venmo, in gift cards or as a wire transfer. Dogs purchased from puppy mills can mean years of heartache and expensive veterinary care—and perpetuation of a cruel industry. The pros of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder: You may be able to select a puppy—including a choice of gender. A reputable breeder will be passionate about German Shepherds and will a resource for years to come. The cons of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder You will pay far more for a cattle dog from a breeder than a rescue or shelter. If you find a breeder who has German Shepherd puppies for sale at prices much lower than you are seeing from other breeders, you must suspect you are dealing with a backyard breeder who has not done health screening, with an online seller who is operating a puppy mill or with someone who is running a scam. You will need to wait until puppies are available. You will need to do your own due diligence to select a reputable breeder. German Shepherd Dogs in rescues are far less expensive that those at a breeder. Puppies under a year old will be the most costly. This group provides funding to a network of GSD rescues — they do not have dogs themselves for adoption. They have a list of affiliated rescues that can help located adoptable GSDs in your region. A breed rescue is, like the name suggests, a pet rescue that is specifically for one breed of dog. These are generally small non-profit groups that operate through a foster system of volunteers who love the breed. German Shepherd rescues specialize in German Shepherds of all ages; some have primarily purebred German Shepherds while others may also have adoptable Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherds. How to Find Breed Rescues Along with the list mentioned above, many breed rescues list their adoptable dogs on large adoption sites such as:. If you are looking to buy a German Shepherd puppy, then you should find one from a reputable breeder. While these puppies are more expensive, a reputable breeder can guarantee the health and behavior of the puppy. These dogs are prone to genetic diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia. These health issues can be avoided by genetically testing the parents, which is something reputable breeders usually do. When improperly raised puppies might have behavioral issues and can cause a lot of damage if they bite someone. A good breeder will have their dogs pass a temperament test. German Shepherd Dog Price While most dogs in shelters are adults, adopting a German Shepherd is a great way to find a dog without supporting unethical breeding. Sometimes these hardworking shepherd dogs are given up because they are very energetic. Not everyone is able to take care of a dog that needs a lot of attention and exercise. Some people buy a German Shepherd puppy without understanding the work involved in caring for this breed. Why Are They So Expensive? Breeding a healthy and well-behaved German Shepherd puppy is not easy! It is not as simple as crossing German Shepherds together. However, if you want a puppy of good temperament that is genetically healthy, there are other costs involved in the breeding and raising. This is especially important for a German Shepherd. You do not want a puppy that grows up to be aggressive or that suffers from mobility issues due to hip and elbow dysplasia. Papers A paperless German Shepherd puppy will be the cheapest. Typically breeders invest as little as possible in these pups. You get a puppy just how it is, without knowing its pedigree or background. A puppy with health certifications, temperament test results, and registration papers costs more than this. However, those papers will be beneficial not just for you, but also the puppy. This means your puppy meets the breed standard and is a purebred dog. The last thing you want is to buy a German Shepherd wolf-mix thinking it is purebred. Veterinarian Visits Reputable breeders not only genetically health test the parents, but they will also take the puppy to see a vet before 8 weeks for a basic health check. During these visits breeders will also have the puppies vaccinated, dewormed and placed on preventatives. When you buy a German Shepherd puppy from a reputable breeder, they will offer you a health guarantee. Most will also be able to provide you proof that the puppy has passed a temperament test. Training Some breeders also take the time to socialize and train their puppies. Many experienced breeders have a specialized training program that begins the process of potty training and basic obedience. This will mean you have an easier time housetraining your puppy, but you will have to pay for their efforts! These are all good signs that the puppy you are buying is of good quality. This will mean you are more likely to avoid any temperament issues or having to pay for vet visits to diagnose and treat hip and elbow dysplasia. Bloodlines Breeders who focus on breeding championship bloodlines will charge more for their puppies. A family might not need such a high-quality German Shepherd. All they need is a healthy and well-behaved puppy that will bring them years of happiness. However, there are many people who need a working dog or show dog. The most expensive dogs are those that are bred to be champions or protective and hard-working. Some breeders spend thousands of dollars just training a world class service dog. A family friendly guard dog with a protective temperament is not easy to breed consistently. Breeders have to factor in not just the genetics, but also the temperament and training. Origin The most expensive types of German Shepherds are those that are imported directly from Germany. Breeders must pay to stud and import these dogs which is not cheap. Since the German Shepherd breed originated in Germany, breeders in the US import dogs from Germany to breed puppies with a purebred lineage. Breeding in Europe is more regulated so the bloodlines are better protected. These puppies are known as European German Shepherds and are slightly different. They are smaller, have straighter backs and brighter coat colors. Some people think they look similar to a belgian malinois. Most European dogs are bred to be working dogs, while American dogs are more frequently bred for companionship. This is the same for American and German Rottweilers and American vs. European Dobermans. All of these breeder will be able to provide: Pedigree and kennel club registration. Documents that certify the puppy is free of any disease and has been checked by a veterinarian. A health warranty. Health records that guarantee the parents are genetically healthy and will not pass on elbow or hip dysplasia. These German Shepherd breeders all breed their puppies in accordance with the breed standard. None of them will sell puppies that are not registered with the American Kennel Club. Another good place to start looking for breeders is the American Kennel Club marketplace. Many of these puppies are bred to be family dogs and come with their papers. As you start looking into more well-known breeders or those that produce dogs of championship or working bloodlines, then the price of a German Shepherd starts to increase. Julia was a German Shepherd bred by the Harrison K-9 facility, highly trained in protection. She could also understand commands in three different languages. Her intelligence, as well as her ability to protect, were why she was priced so highly. Julia was bought by a billionaire businessman in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The rarest coat color is panda, which is why it is also the most expensive. These German Shepherds are black and white. It is a piebald pattern where the black coat is splotched with large patches of white. Some puppies can have other colors like tan, instead of white. Panda dogs are purebred, but the rarity of this mutation makes them very hard to find. There are very few breeders that sell the panda color. And he actually cost nothing! By the end of his life, Rin Tin Tin had appeared in 27 Hollywood films. Rin Tin Tin most notably helped Warner Bros. But these dogs come in more than just this classic color! There are 11 colors that are recognized by the breed standard. Check out the table below for some German Shepherd prices based on coat color. The tan color covers the chest, belly and legs. White A white puppy has a furry coat that is entirely white, allowing it to blend in with the snow. Its eyes and nose are black as coal. Black A black German Shepherd has a coat that is entirely black. Any other color would classify them as a bi-color. Blue A blue German Shepherd is not literally blue, but has a gray color with a bluish hue. Sable The sable color is one of the most common colors, but is a bit more interesting than the black and tan. The hairs of these dogs have bands of tan and black, giving them a very unique coloring. Some of the factors that contribute to this cost are: Food. If a breeder tries to tell you that his puppies are healthy because their parents never had any issues — do not believe him! It is impossible to diagnose e. Where can you find cheap German Shepherd Dogs? The question is — do you want to purchase a dog with questionable health and temperament? These dogs often are not purebred German Shepherd puppies, but are mixed with e. Labradors, Pitbulls or Golden Retrievers. If you end up with a dog with genetically based health conditions however, be prepared to spend a multiple of the original purchase price on vet costs! Temperament and behavior While a lot of good manners can be taught through consistent training, temperament is genetic to a certain level. When you buy an extra cheap German Shepherd puppy, you not only get a dog with questionable health, but also with unpredictable temperament! Even aggression can be genetic and can be passed on from the mom and dad to the offspring. You can save yourself a lot of time, nerves and money spent on future behavioral training by getting a well-bred and more expensive dog. What is the most expensive type of German Shepherd? Like in many dog breeds, certain rare German Shepherd colors are much more expensive than the most common colors and patterns. It is much more important that your puppy has a sound temperament and fits in well with your family and lifestyle than that he has a certain rare look. These dogs are mutts German Shepherds mixed with Miniature Poodles, Shelties or other smaller breeds. Once more, be certain to not decide on your future dog based on looks alone. A stable temperament and good health is much more integral than a certain size or weight. Working lines vs show lines The German Shepherd was originally bred as a working dog. Since his original use as a shepherd dog however, he has filled many different roles — from guarding properties over being used in the show ring to participating in Schutzhund and IPO trails. Depending on which lines your German Shepherd Dog comes from, the prices can vary a lot! Show line German Shepherds are the dogs that are bred for conformation shows. These are the type of dogs you should decide on if you would like a shepherd puppy as a pet and companion animal. If you are interested in using your German Shepherd as a protection dog and to participate in IPO trials, you should pick one from working lines. There are a lot of highly successful working line breeders both in North America and Europe. For this price, you get an absolutely flawless dog with extensive skills and perfect obedience. Some US dog owners interested in Schutzhund choose to import a puppy from old European working lines. While this might sound insanely high for a pet dog owner, for Schutzhund enthusiasts it is a typical price for a pedigreed German Shepherd pup. How much does it cost a month to own a German Shepherd? This will cover the basics: high-quality food and regular vet checks. Some German Shepherd owners spend considerably more money. Professional grooming is necessary for many German Shepherd owners, as these dogs shed heavily. This breeds tends to exhibit several behavioral issues that can be difficult to fix for first-time dog owners, including: Separation anxiety.

Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.Top 30 Smartest Dog Breeds In The World If you're a dog lover, you've probably heard the age-old debate: which dog breeds are the smartest? While all dogs have their own unique intelligence and personality, some breeds have proven to be consistently brilliant over time. In this guide, we'll explore the top 30 smartest dog breeds ranked, from problem-solving whizzes to trainable and intuitive pups. We've done our research to provide you with an updated and informative.These pooches are joyful, lively, eager to please dogs. They are adventurous, kind, family-oriented pups who love hiking, swimming, canine games, sports and any, and all, family activities. These puppies are merry and bouncy little marshmallows. They are cuddly and sweet pups who love running around, playing, making friends and are very enthusiastic learners. The breed is divided into 3 recognized categories: Toy Poodle; Mini; Standard. Although they differ in size, one thing is for sure: they are glamorous companion pets. We have answers. The cost of Poodles change depending on several things. The experience of the breeder, type of coat, as well as size affects price. Uptown is so great because you can find amazing Poodles to love, and pups you can afford too! Do your breeders arrange travel for Los Angeles Poodles out of state? Without a doubt! M ost of the breeders, businesses and companies in our network really know their stuff when it comes to transporting Poodle pups all over geographically. They are also able to arrange for your Poodle puppy to be sent by plane to the nearest major airport close to you. Our network is also growing by the day, so you may be able to pick up your pup really close by! How do you screen miniature Poodle breeders in Los Angeles? To make sure that the health and wellbeing of your puppy is safeguarded, our standards are very strict when it comes to experience of the breeder, the places where breeding occurs, care of the animals, etc. The internet is easily accessible to anyone and everyone, making it basic for bad breeders, as well as puppy mills, to hurt families who are just looking for a new best friend. We just want to help families that care find honest breeders, companies and businesses who can help give you the Poodle you have always wanted. What is a puppy mill like for miniature Poodle Los Angeles? Puppy mills are an absolute nightmare for all the dogs and puppies involved. The mothers are stuck in cages all their lives, their only purpose to give birth to litter after litter. The puppies that come out of puppy mills often have behavioral issues and health problems that can end up costing you thousands in vet bills. These puppies often die at a young age. Are there any miniature Poodle puppies Los Angeles for sale now? We will help connect you with the best breeders, companies and businesses based on a variety of preferences, and before you know it, you will have your new best friend, on or by your lap at home. What kind of dogs are mini Poodle puppies Los Angeles? There are many types of Poodles available. Poodles are very popular and are also incredibly intelligent. Their actual intelligence is just after the Border Collie. They are also highly skillful, able to be dogs that assist, and more! Right now the internet is populated with puppy scams. We aim to create long-term relationships with our Breeder Pledge, screening process and more, with our customers as well as our dog breeders. All you need to do is take a look at our reviews and see all the families and Poodles we have connected and you will see how well our network works!

do goldendoodle puppies shed their puppy coat - These Pugs may be sold as miniatures, micros, pocket pugs or even teacups. However, the term teacup usually refers to a dog that is around 4 to 6 pounds 1. It is incredibly unlikely, if not impossible to get purebred Pug down to this size. Despite this, Teacup Pugs are still advertised and sold, and it is possible that they may be recognized by some designer dog registries. However, it is important to be cautious when considering purchasing a Teacup Pug as many of these dogs are the result of unethical breeding practices. This way, pug owners may buy a teacup Pug puppy, only to have them grown to typical Pug size as adults. Another way is through breeding dwarves , which can result in health issues for the dog and even if you do breed dwarves, dwarfism is not always passed onto offspring. Breeding runts or smaller Pugs, often with inbreeding, and withholding food to stunt growth are also unethical practices used to create Teacup Pugs. Crossbreeding Pugs with smaller breeds like the Chihuahua is another way that Teacup Pugs are created, but this can lead to unpredictable traits and health issues. Nevertheless, Crossbreeding Pugs with smaller breeds is probably the most ethical way to get a genuinely smaller Pug type dog. In conclusion, while Teacup Pugs may seem like a cute and desirable option for some, it is important to be aware of the unethical breeding practices that often go into creating them. It is recommended to instead seek out a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. The Pug breed originated in China, where they were bred to be companions for royalty. The Teacup Pug is believed to have been bred in the United States in the s, by crossing a Pug with a smaller breed such as a Chihuahua or a Pomeranian. In fact, many breeders and veterinarians caution against breeding Teacup Pugs and other teacups due to the potential health problems associated with breeding dogs to be unnaturally small. Pugs are already classified as a toy breed because of their small size. Breeders achieve this size by selecting the smallest pugs from litters and breeding them together. However, because of their very small size, they can sometimes face additional health challenges. Toy Pug: This term is a bit redundant since pugs are already in the toy group. Despite this, Teacup dogs have gained popularity in recent years due to their small size and cute appearance. However, it is important for potential owners to do their research and understand the potential health risks before deciding to bring a Teacup Pug into their home. Physical Characteristics of a Teacup Pug Teacup Pugs are small and compact dogs, with a height of around 6 to 10 inches 15 to 25 cm and a weight around 4 pounds 1. They have a short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, fawn, silver, and apricot. Their coat is easy to maintain and requires minimal grooming. The Teacup Pug has a distinctive wrinkled face, which is one of its most endearing features. Their eyes are large, round, and dark, and their ears are small and folded over. They have a short, stocky body with a broad chest and a curly tail. Teacup Pugs have a friendly and affectionate personality, and they love to be around people. They are playful and energetic, but they also enjoy lounging around and cuddling with their owners. They make great pets for families with children, as they are gentle and patient with kids. Overall, the Teacup Pug is a charming and delightful little dog that is sure to bring joy and companionship to any household. Help Dogs In Need Our blog posts aim to provide comprehensive, accurate, and objective information on all types of dogs, helping our readers make informed choices that fit their lifestyle. We don't endorse any specific breeding practices, but advocate for ethical breeding and dog welfare. We encourage exploring adoption first. Countless wonderful dogs, from all breeds, await their forever homes in shelters. Remember, with AdoptDontShop, you can give a deserving rescue a second chance at happiness. Teacup Pug Behavior Teacup Pugs are known for their playful and affectionate behavior. They are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. However, they can be stubborn at times and may require a firm hand during training. Teacup Pugs are social animals and enjoy spending time with their owners. They are loyal and protective of their family, making them excellent watchdogs. They thrive on attention and love to be cuddled and petted. Despite their small size, Teacup Pugs are energetic and require daily exercise to keep them healthy. They enjoy short walks and playing in the yard. However, they are also content to snuggle up with their owners on the couch. Teacup Pugs are known for their friendly nature and get along well with children and other pets. They are not aggressive and rarely bark, making them ideal apartment dogs. Overall, Teacup Pugs are wonderful companions that bring joy and love to their families. With proper training and care, they make excellent pets for individuals and families alike. These include genetic disorders and physical health issues in Pugs as well as issues that affect teacup dogs. Genetic Disorders Teacup Pugs are prone to a number of genetic disorders, such as brachycephalic airway syndrome and brachycephalic ocular syndrome. These conditions are caused by the shape of their skulls and can lead to respiratory and eye problems , including red eyes and wheezing. They may also suffer from dental problems due to their small size and crowded teeth as well as obesity. Other genetic disorders that teacup pugs may be prone to include hypoglycemia, collapsing trachea which can affect their ability to bark , hydrocephalus, and neurological disorders. These conditions can be serious and require immediate veterinary attention. Physical Health Issues Teacup Pugs may also be prone to a number of physical health issues. Obesity is a common problem for teacup pugs, as they have a tendency to overeat and are less active than larger dogs. This can lead to joint problems, such as hip and back issues. Teacup Pugs may also be prone to skin and ear infections, sliding knee caps, and other issues. It is important to keep their skin and ears clean and dry, and to monitor their mobility and overall health. Caring for a Teacup Pug Teacup Pugs are adorable pets that require proper care to maintain their health and happiness. In this section, we will discuss the essential aspects of caring for a Teacup Pug, including their diet and nutrition, exercise and play, and grooming. Exercise and Play Teacup Pugs are energetic dogs that require daily exercise and playtime. They enjoy short walks, indoor play, and interactive toys. Grooming Teacup Pugs have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming and the occasional wash with a gentle 5-in-1 Dog Wash. Dog eye cleaning wipes like Dog Eye Wipes With Tear Stain Remover can gently eliminate residue build-up around the eyes and lighten existing stains. In addition, Teacup Pugs require regular nail trimming, and dog ear cleaning wipes like Dog Ear Cleaning Wipes can help eliminate ear wax, dirt, and odors while keeping their ears itch-free. Training a Teacup Pug Training a teacup pug requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. These small dogs are intelligent and eager to please, but they can also be stubborn and easily distracted. Keep training sessions short and frequent, as teacup pugs have short attention spans. Make the crate a comfortable and inviting space for your pug, and never use it as a form of punishment. Socialize Your Pug Socialization is important for teacup pugs, as they can be timid around strangers and other dogs. Introduce your pug to new people and animals in a controlled environment, such as a dog park or obedience class. Be Consistent Consistency is key when training a teacup pug. Use the same commands and techniques every time, and make sure that all family members are on the same page when it comes to training. A certified dog trainer can provide personalized advice and guidance to help you and your pug succeed. Choosing a Teacup Pug Teacup Pugs are a popular breed due to their small size and adorable appearance. However, choosing the right Teacup Pug can be a daunting task. This section will provide some guidance on how to choose the perfect Teacup Pug for you. Adoption Adopting a Teacup Pug from a rescue organization can be a great option. Adopting from a rescue organization not only gives a loving home to a dog in need, but it also helps to prevent unethical breeding practices. Rescue organizations typically provide this information to potential adopters, which can help in making an informed decision. Buying from a Breeder While adopting is recommended, some individuals may still choose to purchase a Teacup Pug from a breeder. Avoid buying from a breeder that prioritizes appearance over health or that has a history of breeding dogs with health issues. This can help ensure that the puppy comes from healthy and well-cared-for parents. Whether adopting from a rescue organization or purchasing from a breeder, taking the time to do research and make an informed decision can lead to a happy and healthy life with your new furry friend. Frequently Asked Questions Are teacup pugs real? Yes, teacup pugs are a real breed of dog. Do teacup pugs shed? Yes, teacup pugs do shed. However, their short, fine coats require minimal grooming and shedding is generally not a major issue. What is the difference between a Mini Pug and a regular Pug? How much do teacup pugs cost? How small do Teacup Pugs get? Teacup pugs are typically smaller than regular pugs, but their size can vary greatly depending on the breeding. Some teacup pugs weigh as little as pounds, while others may weigh up to 10 pounds. What is the smallest breed of Pug? The Pug is a breed of dog, and there is no smaller breed of Pug. However, teacup pugs are often bred to be smaller than the average Pug. Are Teacup Pugs generally healthy? Teacup pugs can be prone to a number of health problems, including respiratory issues, dental problems, and joint issues. Final Thoughts In conclusion, the teacup pug is a delightful and charming breed that is perfect for those who want a small, affectionate, and low-maintenance pet. They have a lot of energy, but they also love to cuddle and be near their owners. Despite their small size, they are very sturdy and can handle rough play with children. One thing to keep in mind is that their small size can make them more prone to health issues, such as respiratory problems and joint issues. With proper care and attention, they can make wonderful pets for many years to come. Tamsin De La Harpe Author Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs. Got Questions? What is a teacup dog? How are teacup dogs made? Teacup versions of already small dog breeds include Pugs, Pomeranians, Shih Tzus, and Chihuahuas, amongst others. Puppies are often photographed sitting inside of teacups, to showcase their small size. But how are these teacup versions made? There are a few ways. Teacup dogs are usually produced by breeding runts together to create the smallest version of the dog possible. Unfortunately the small dogs chosen to breed are sometimes also not the healthiest. They may be small because of a birth defect or other medical condition, and that can then be passed on to their offspring. Health risks for tiny versions of dogs can be significant, and breeders often take these risks because they want to rake in the big bucks. Another way a teacup dog might be bred is by mixing smaller breeds. For example, a teacup pug might have a small amount of chihuahua in them, to ensure a smaller size. What is a Teacup Pug, or a Toy Pug? What is the pug breed standard? Glad you asked. What is a very small pug called? In the United States and Canada, the pug breed standard only has one classification — standard. However, people do use certain words to describe purebred pugs that happen to be on the small side. They often just have one goal: to breed smaller and smaller dogs. Common health risks that come with breeding small versions of dogs include: Hydrocephalus: also known as water on the brain, hydrocephalus is a build-up of fluid in the brain. Hypoglycemia: a condition where the blood sugar glucose level is lower than normal. Collapsing Trachea: Tracheal collapse is when rings of cartilage in the trachea begin to flatten out, making it difficult for air to get to the lungs. Patella Luxation: or sliding kneecap, is a condition where the knee cap rides outside the femoral groove when the knee is flexed. They can also be prone to seizures, respiratory issues, and liver shunts. These health issues and complications result in higher vet bills, and dogs with shorter life spans. Share your comments below. Pin for later! This is largely due to their natural charm and loving temperament, which usually extends to children and other pets. Distinctive physical features include a large round head, big dark eyes, and a wrinkled brow. An adult Pug stands between 10 and 13 inches and weighs between 14 and 18 pounds. To be classed as a Miniature Pug they simply need to fall below these parameters when full grown. In some ways, a small dog seems like having a puppy forever. There are three ways to miniaturize a dog breed. The first is to mix a standard breed with a smaller breed, as in the case of the miniature Pug. The second way is to introduce the gene for dwarfism, also known as achondroplasia. The final way is to repeatedly breed from the smallest, or runts, of litters. Mixed Breed Minis Chihuahua Pug mixes can look quite Puglike as puppies, albeit often with shorter muzzles. But their personality will be quite different to your average Pug. Both the Chihuahua and the Pug are already very small dogs. Each of these breeds has more than their share of inherited health problems. The Chihuahua and the Pug have the same amount of teeth as any dog. The problem is that little dogs have little mouths, and their teeth crowd together. This puts the miniature Pug at a high risk for tooth decay and gum disease. Due to their small size, Chihuahuas have trouble giving birth and often require cesarian sections. If a Chihuahua is the dam and the Pug is the sire of a miniature Pug, the mother is very likely to have difficulty producing a litter. Dwarfism Genes A popular method of shrinking a puppy down in size is introducing the gene for dwarfism, which shortens the legs and therefore their height. However breeding for extreme conformational traits has been shown to result in an increased risk of certain diseases. And using the gene for dwarfism has been linked to intervertebral disc disease along with some other painful conditions. Breeding From The Smallest Dogs There are breeders who try to create even smaller dogs by breeding two runt Pugs together. These dogs are referred to as micro mini Pug puppies or pocket Pugs. When dogs are way under the breed standard , they can already possess health issues like hypoglycemia and heart defects. Breeding two extremely small dogs together is very likely to cause even more health issues and is highly unscrupulous. General Pug Problems Any Pug or Pug mix is at risk of the two main health complications this breed is prone too. The endearing short muzzles, wrinkled facial skin, and bulging eyes are associated with brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome. This makes them prone to seriously compromised respiratory systems. Their short flat faces make it very difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. This means they can overheat very quickly in warm weather. Abnormally shallow eye sockets , which make the eyes protrude, are another issue for brachycephalic breeds. Screw tail is another disease brachycephalic breeds are genetically predisposed to. If the deformity occurs higher in the spine, it can be very painful and cause severe neurological problems. How to Avoid Unscrupulous Breeders Miniature Pug puppies, like many miniature breeds, are a hot commodity, and breeders are getting thousands of dollars for these pint-sized pups. Unfortunately, this is a huge incentive for disreputable breeders to create smaller and smaller dogs. If you see advertisements for micro mini Pugs or teacup Pugs, this is definitely a breeder to avoid. Another red flag is if there is no waiting list and puppies are immediately available for purchase. Ask questions about their breeding practices. Any reputable breeder should be informed about the health issues surrounding miniature breeds. Miniature breeds are usually prone to more health issues. Their unnaturally small size means they also become injured more easily. When you have two small breeds like the Chihuahua and the Pug, who already have many health problems, you can see that this is a dog who is greatly at risk. The only way to stop breeders from creating very small dogs is to not buy them. Perhaps this is a fad that will soon cease to be popular. But in the meantime, dogs specifically bred to be tiny and fragile are suffering. How can we help you? We limit the use photoshop to visualize the appearance of our puppies. Thus, we do not stock too many photo to give a wrong impression of the actual puppy on our website. Please understand that, above all, our puppies are healthy before they go to their new home. Visit our Health Guarantee page. We relatively have a high demand for our teacup puppies. So, deposit and puppy reservation is good for just 30 days. Within the 30 days period, you have to complete your payment or the puppy will no longer be hold. However, if your preferred puppy is no more available, we would find you a similar one. Secondly, all deposits are recognize as part of the actual price of the puppy. However, After paying a deposit, you have the right to canceled the purchase within 30 days and request a refunds. Most importantly, make a commitment to be a life time companion to the puppy that fill your heart with joy. However, an additional fee may be charge depending on the airline services or delivery destination. Visit Our Delivery Option page for more information and different shipping options. Do you love puppies? Are you looking for puppies and get reached your doorstep? Here at Petla Pug Puppies, you will choose all the pug while staying at their home. 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do goldendoodle puppies shed their puppy coat - How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. Shares German Shepherds are graceful, obedient, and loyal dogs with specific nutritional needs. Following a German Shepherd puppy feeding chart will enable you to track the amount of food your puppy is eating as they grow. There are varieties of foods available in the market and most of them come with guidelines at the back of the packaging showing you how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy. This article will cover different types of diets available and the specific nutritional needs of your German shepherd. It will also help you know what to do to ensure that your GSD gets nutritious and balanced food for every stage of their life. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart There are three aspects of this German Shepherd puppy feeding chart, namely the German shepherd feeding amount, feeding frequency, and mealtime lengths. It is important to find out the appropriate feeding amount, frequency, and length for your German shepherd without leaving out one of them. That way, you can accurately find out the best way to feed your dog. Overall, there are four ranges that you need to keep in mind. An active dog may require a bit more than the numbers in this list, and an inactive dog will need a slightly less amount. But this guide can act as a solid benchmark. A puppy will need to eat more because they are growing very quickly. Talk to your vet about how much exactly so you keep them healthy and happy. Make sure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water all day. When you take your dog for a walk make sure to bring along some extra water in a collapsible bowl. If they get tired on the way or it gets very hot, this can save their life. So for example, if your dog is 60lbs they should eat between lbs of food in one day. If you notice your dog is losing weight, add more calories to its meal size. However, there are other considerations on how much to feed a German shepherd puppy per day. You might want to consider avoiding meals right before bedtime. Let them digest their food first before they go to sleep. Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs All dogs require nutritious, satisfying, and healthy food and every breed have their special diet. For maximum energy and health, there are factors to consider when deciding what to feed your German Shepherd: Size considerations- the AKC breed standard says that a German Shepherd can go to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Females can be around 49 to 71 pounds while Males can be around 66 to 88 pounds. This means that they have a big appetite hence it is good to find quality food for them. They grow pretty fast hence they need specific nutrients for specific stages. Activity level- German shepherds are muscular, active, and agile which contributes to higher caloric needs to be complemented by feeding them a high-quality diet. Health consideration- GSDs are prone to many diseases hence a healthy diet will prevent problems. For example, arthritis that is caused by hip and elbow dysplasia can be mitigated through an excellent diet. Ensure that your GSD diet contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. How long does it take for your dog to be full? Is your dog still hungry after eating his portion? German shepherds normally take anywhere from 10 minutes to 15 minutes to finish the meal, given that you followed the proper feeding guidelines properly. If your dog shows signs of slow eating, we recommend sending them to your vet. If you think your dog is already full before finishing his portion, there is no problem. However, if your dog is still hungry after finishing the meal, consider sending him to your vet. This is because this can be a sign of a serious health issue involving their digestive system. They encourage the puppy to chew hence preventing periodontal diseases or tartar. Kibble is less expensive to buy and can stay fresh for longer. See also German Shepherd Gestation Period And Pregnancy Wet food is also essential for puppies because they allow puppies to feel fuller with less food. If your GSD need to shed a few pounds, wet food is a good way to reduce their caloric intake. Wet food is easier to digest, hence they are good for German shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet food is appetizing and keeps the puppy hydrated. You need to understand why your puppy cannot eat because it will help you determine the way to deal with the issue. There is no need to worry if the puppy lost appetite shortly and goes back to normal eating without any sign of illness. If the puppy loses appetite and takes a few days without improvement, take your puppy to the vet to find the problem because your dog might be sick. If the vet finds that the puppy is sick, they may suggest a special diet that will boost their immunity and give them extra nutrients to better their recovery. The puppy may have stopped eating because of behavioral issues; therefore, you may need to feed them same time to get a routine. Treats and human food that is given to the puppy may need to be reduced and also you can try different kinds of food. The German shepherd is a medium dog breed according to the AKC. Therefore, free-feeding is not a good idea. For the German shepherds, feeding schedules work better. If the puppies are free-fed the puppy may eat the leftover at any time even when they are not hungry. Sticking to a feeding routine help the puppy to stay healthy and prevent obesity. When you have a schedule, managing their weight and house training will improve. The puppy usually relieves themselves around 15 minutes after eating or drinking, therefore, when they feed at the same time every day and are taken outside after a while, accidents will be minimized. A raw diet is good for German shepherds. A raw diet help improves vitality and energy. The puppy gets healthy white teeth with an increased lifespan and reduced shedding as well as a stronger immune system. Raw meat is a great source of protein and an optimal diet. It is like keto to humans because it allows the puppy to reach their total capacity and good health. Dogs are naturally carnivorous, hence raw diet aligns with their natural needs. However, you should speak to your vet before putting your puppy on a raw food diet. The majority of commercially available kibble food is balanced and complete, and of high quality for your German shepherd puppy. Human supplements often contain harmful substances to animals and are unregulated or minimally effective. Therefore, never give human supplements to your German shepherd puppy. But they can eat small amounts of cooked chicken or turkey, plain cooked sweet potatoes or carrots, plain yogurt, and small amounts of fruits like apples or bananas without getting sick. Talk to a vet for advice on how to feed your German Shepherd puppy a healthy and balanced diet. These include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chives, avocado, onions, nuts, grapes and raisins, garlic, raw or undercooked meat, and bones. These foods can cause a wide range of health problems, from stomachaches to more serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney failure. Some foods that people eat may have a lot of sodium or sugar, which can also be bad for dogs. How much food to give an older German Shepherd will depend on their needs and how much they move around. But as dogs get older, they tend to slow down and may need less food to stay at a healthy weight. As a general rule, an older German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of food per day, which should be divided between two meals. A German Shepherd that is getting older should eat high-quality senior dog food that is made for their age and size. Senior dogs might also benefit from getting smaller meals more often. If your German Shepherd puppy seems to always be hungry, you should look at what they eat and how often they eat. Make sure they eat enough for their age, weight, and level of activity. Puppies grow quickly and need more calories than adult dogs, so it is possible that they are not getting enough food. Also, make sure you feed them high-quality puppy food that is right for their age and size. If you are worried about how hungry they are or how much they weigh, you should talk to a vet to rule out any health problems and make a plan for feeding them. The amount of dry food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Adult dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Active dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Senior dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. If the dog is obviously overweight or underweight, adjust accordingly. If you can feel most of the ribs without squeezing your fingers in between them — try 1 cup per day. This is a decent starting point for a growing large breed puppy that needs the extra calories to grow big and strong. If you can feel most of the ribs AND see its waist — try 3 cups per day. This is perfect for an adult German Shepherd which needs extra calories due to being very active. With this amount, it will be able to maintain its weight, but not gain any extra fat. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 3. This is a good amount for a very active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain a healthy weight. This should be sufficient for an adult German Shepherd which is quite active. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 5 cups per day. This is a good amount for an extremely active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain lean muscle mass. For example, when my dog was a puppy, he would feel all ribs and see his waist when eating 2 cups of food per day. However, as he got older and larger, I had to increase the amount — even though I could still feel most of the ribs! He maintained around .Although there are lots of opinions on how much food your shepherds needs, these guidelines work for me and my German Shepherds. Everyone is different though, so you will have to adjust accordingly if necessary — this guide should help you until you find the ideal amount. If your dog is a very active one it may need more food depending on its activity level. Always be sure to give plenty of water since dry kibble can dehydrate the animal over time. However, this amount will vary depending on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Puppies and young dogs, for example, generally need more water than adult German Shepherds. And working dogs or those who exercise frequently may require even more. This is because they can easily hydrate themselves if given free access to water. However, you still need to remember some things. For example, take note that your dog will need to drink 6 ounces of water per day for every 3. Depending on the temperature and activeness, this amount can increase. Lastly, make sure you take extra care in providing water access to your German shepherd. The most preferable way is to fill a bowl with a moderate amount of water, not too much. The feeding amount, frequency, length, and water requirements can always be changed. If you have no time to visit your vet, the following topic may help you. How Much Should A 1-year-old German Shepherd Eat A 1-year-old German Shepherd should eat about two and a half to three cups of food each day, broken up into two or three meals. Pointers for Feeding German Shepherds Improper feeding practices can lead to serious health problems for German shepherds. An owner is responsible for taking into consideration the age and weight of a German shepherd before feeding them. When feeding a german shepherd puppy that is four to six months old, you must give them two meals a day that comprises around eight ounces and five ounces. When feeding a German shepherd puppy that is between seven and twelve months old, the meal amounts should be increased to ten ounces for each meal. This amount should be split into three smaller meals. This is regardless of whether they are active or not. Yep, German shepherds can gain weight regardless of whether they exercise or not. If you think your dog is gaining too much weight, you can split their daily calories into four or five smaller meals. Some people prefer using dry dog food, while others would choose canned dog food. Whatever you choose for your German shepherd is usually okay, but canned food tends to contain more moisture than dry food which may lead to bladder stones in certain dogs. However, when it comes to the amount of dog food you feed your German shepherd, canned food leads to more obesity than dry food. If your German shepherds are over five years old, you must give them an extra meal. This additional meal should comprise around four ounces of food so they can easily digest it during their older age. When feeding a German shepherd puppy, you must know how to correctly measure their food amount. Be accurate when following the proper measurements; otherwise, it could lead to your dog gaining too much weight. Use measuring cups that are specifically made for dry food. If you use any other type of measuring device, it might lead to your dog eating too much or too little food. You must not feed your German shepherd until they are full, but allow them to eat until they are slightly satiated. Do not serve unlimited food; give them about two to three cups of food per day. If you are unsure whether or not your German shepherd is obese, check its waistline. If they have a thick waist and their stomach looks like a sphere, then that is a clear sign that your German shepherd is obese. Never let them finish their meal if they are still hungry; otherwise, you will encourage them to gorge on their food. Your German shepherd must always have access to fresh clean water, so you should ensure they can drink it whenever necessary. Feeding Guidelines by Age Before proceeding with the following points, remember that age is not the only determining factor in a German shepherd feeding chart. Make sure to consider all the content in this blog post as well. It is recommended that you slowly let them adapt first. This can be their regular food from now on. This includes fruits, bones, and more. You should also avoid giving them your leftovers. However, they will need time to adapt. You should also consider feeding your German shepherd foods that can be gnawed and chewed. This is so they can develop their jaws, teeth, and gums. This will result in less feeding amount and frequency. Feeding Guidelines by Weight German shepherds can be of different weight ranges. An average weighted German shepherd 35 kilograms will then need calories per day. This only applies to German shepherds that do not exercise or are inactive. Active German Shepherds: In the case of active German shepherds that exercise regularly, every 1 kilogram equals 55 calories per day. So an average weighted German shepherd will require calories per day to be able to function properly. Take note, however, that this calculation may be affected if the German shepherd has a health disorder concerned with metabolism or digestion. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Guidelines Our last topic involves the difference between a puppy and an adult. The following are some of the facts that recent studies have proven: Puppies have higher energy levels than adults. This means they need to eat more than adult German shepherds. German shepherds will need higher protein and fat content at an early age. The amount of fat and protein will decrease as they grow older. Puppies cannot tolerate too many nutrients. Ingesting extra minerals and vitamins may lead to serious health disorders. Meanwhile, adults are only risking being overweight when taking in more than intended. German Shepherds usually have a good appetite and can eat a lot, especially when they are young and growing. But their food intake should be balanced and right for their age, weight, and level of activity to keep them from getting too much food and getting fat. As they age, they should usually eat less quickly. Most of the time, bones that have been cooked and ground up completely may be safe to eat. Instead, give them dog-made chew toys or treats. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Since German Shepherds consume meat, it follows that they must consume a significant amount of animal protein in order to get all of the necessary nutrients. Although while it is feasible to offer a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, owners of German Shepherds should avoid doing so since it increases the likelihood that their dogs will not get all of the nutrients that they need. After talking about the feeding amount, frequency, and lengths of a German shepherd, you can now easily plan how much, how many times, and how long you feed your dog. You even learned how to hydrate your German shepherd the proper way. Lastly, we talked about the difference between a puppy and an adult in terms of feeding. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Since puppies have a lot of growing to do, they require plenty of calories. You can reduce the amount of food per pound of body weight until they reach standard adult measurements. The specific amount of food to feed a German Shepherd can vary because different dogs are sized differently and have various needs and levels of athleticism. To learn more about specific foods and ingredients, check out this article on the best diet for German Shepherds. Three to four meals of puppy food a day is ideal for a month-old German Shepherd, as the food will be easily digestible and keep the energy high throughout the day. Feeding a puppy 1—2 large meals might make them feel sick, or they may be unable to finish it all at once. When it comes to how much food to give a 1—4 month-old German Shepherd, the recommended amount is approximately one cup g or a little more, depending on activity levels per meal. Be sure to spread meals evenly throughout the day, and avoid feeding your puppy before bedtime. The West Greenwich Animal Hospital recommends not feeding a dog three hours before bedtime because they may need to go out for a toilet break at night. Since their stomachs and bodies are getting bigger, they can generally handle fewer large meals than more small ones. So, you can reduce the number of puppy food meals to 2 or 3. Since the number of meals is reduced, increase the amount of food per serving to approximately 1. The meals should be spread evenly throughout the day to ensure your German Shepherd has consistent energy levels. My German Shepherd Willow at 4 months old 10 to 12 Months At 10—12 months, a German Shepherd begins to mature as its body continues growing. Split approximately 4—5 cups —1, g of food between two meals. However, this is just a recommendation — as mentioned previously, your dog may require more or less than this depending on their activity levels. Keeping the amount of food at cups , g per day may be sufficient, or it may be best to start feeding your dog more or less than this. For example, many active or working German Shepherds may benefit from 6 cups 1. Again, the specific amount is circumstantial. However, some dog owners make the switch earlier. Honestly, this is the issue with every new pet parent. Below is a German Shepherd feeding chart to help you learn more about giving your pooch the right amount of food at the right time. Remember, the below are simply recommendations, so specific amounts can vary by dog and activity level. Age Amount of food per day Amount of servings per day months 3—4 cups — g spread across multiple servings 3—4 3—4. Always check the packaging of the food you buy for a more detailed analysis. There are endless dog food options, so making the right choice can be challenging and stressful. The main protein source is chicken, and it promotes immune system health and digestive performance. Suitable for puppies up to 15 months, this dog food is the perfect solution for young German Shepherds with lots of growing to do! One of the main benefits of this food is that it comes in different sizes, including a pound 6. This dog food contains all the nutrients a German Shepherd puppy needs to grow and thrive. Blue Buffalo dog food has real chicken, fruits, and vegetables, so your pooch will surely enjoy the delicious taste! It comes in two flavors — a chicken meal with oats and a lamb meal with brown rice. Either contains enough high-quality protein to ensure your pup can grow as healthily as possible. Medium-sized dog breeds can continue eating puppy food until 18 months. Like with puppy food, there are many adult German Shepherd dog food options, so choosing the right one can be challenging. Check out some of my below recommendations to make your search a little easier. Best Breed Dr. Best Breed Dog Food aids digestion as it contains a blend of soluble and insoluble fiber. According to a study, musculoskeletal disorders and the inability to stand are the two most common causes of death in German Shepherds. Since puppies need specific nutrients to grow, their food differs greatly from adult dog food. Puppies especially need protein because it aids with the growth and development of cells. Without adequate protein in the diet , puppies are more susceptible to serious health issues, including: Weight and muscle loss General weakness Chest and abdomen issues German Shepherds can continue eating puppy food for the first year of life and beyond. Usually, 16—18 months is a good time for a dog to start eating adult food. The most important thing to remember is that adult food is never the right choice for a German Shepherd puppy that still has much growing to do. However, there are many other factors to consider when it comes to feeding a German Shepherd, like their general weight and activity levels. Weight and Size The weight of your German Shepherd will determine how much to feed it. The general rule of thumb is that the heavier your dog is, the more food it needs to stay fueled. The average adult German Shepherd is around .Pay attention to the general height and size of your German Shepherd to determine exactly how much food to feed them. For example, an underweight German Shepherd will need extra food to get back to a healthy weight, whereas an overweight one will need less food. As you can imagine, a highly energetic dog will need more food than a German Shepherd that lies around all day. If your German Shepherd is still relatively young, i. Health Health issues can affect the way a dog eats. For example, a dog with stomach issues might avoid food altogether. Other health conditions that affect how much a dog can eat include: Pancreatitis Infections Cancer Consider whether your dog is experiencing health issues when feeding them. For instance, if your dog is shedding too much, you need to change a diet that minimizes shedding. Age The age of a German Shepherd helps determine how much food should be eaten and how often. For example as mentioned earlier , younger dogs must eat smaller meals spread evenly throughout the day, while older dogs can have 2 larger meals. A vet can weigh your German Shepherd, ask questions, and listen to the heartbeat to determine a healthy diet plan. As Willow is now a senior dog, I like to take her for vet checkups every 6 months. In many cases, giving puppies homemade food over long periods can cause health issues down the line. A study by the National Library of Medicine concluded that a homemade diet given by the owner caused a puppy to experience various health issues, including vitamin D deficiency and NSH nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism. You can give a small treat here and there, but human food should never make up the entire diet of a puppy. Below are some tasty examples! Eggs Not only are eggs beneficial for humans, but they can also be good for dogs if given in moderation. German Shepherds puppies and adults will receive plenty of nutrients from eggs, including protein and fats. The best and easiest way to give a German Shepherd an egg is to hard boil it. Avoid feeding a German Shepherd or any dog fried eggs too often due to the excessive oil. Hard-boiled eggs are usually the easiest for dogs to eat, but you can also try poached or scrambled eggs. Examples of dog-friendly fruits include: Bananas. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.