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Our bulldogges retain the good temperament of the English bulldog, but also run and play — and live a longer life. This breed likes to chew and should be supplied with plenty of toys and bones. Nylabones and rubber Kong toys are highly recommended. Rawhides, soft rubber and stuffed toys are unsafe, for they are easily shredded or swallowed whole. Olde English Bulldogges are so eager to please that they may overexert themselves in an effort to do whatever is asked of them. We loved the look and disposition of the English Bulldogs but didn't want the health risks associated with the breed. So we looked to the Olde English and found everything we were looking for and more. Loving, Loyal and gentle our dogs become a member of the family. They are brought up in our home where they are given lots of love and attention. It is extremely important to us that they end up in homes where they will be loved and cared for as we have loved and cared for them and their parents. The fact we have built this small community around our beloved pups is a HUGE source of pride. We provide a little starter bag for all of our babies that includes shot records and registration paperwork but we are also always available for anything that may arise. In their future. Super healthy dogs. No breathing problems at all. Great temperament. Absolutely love these boys!! Kimbo I. This one looks just like mine who is now 2. No skin issues. No eye issues. No jaw issues. No teeth issues. My baby is just flat out beautiful. Sara J. The property was beautiful and we could see how loved their Bulldogs are. Testimonials Why Us? Health Care Bexar Bulldogges get their tails docked dew claws removed and all initial shots at 6 weeks with shot records. Frequently Asked Questions What are some of the health issues English bulldogs are likely to face? The English bulldog has various health issues with the most alarming being cardiac and respiratory complications. English bulldogs are also prone to dyslexia in the hip due to their relatively large body size. Skin infections are also a concern do to the wrinkly and folds nature of the skin. What is the lifespan of an English bulldog? The English bulldog can live up to years on an average scale. This is usually due to the numerous complications and health challenges the bulldog faces in the course of life. How frequently do English bulldogs shed? English bulldogs shed more frequently during the cold seasons like winter and spring. Compared to other dogs, they shed rather moderately and even lesser as they age. How hard is it to train an English bulldog? This breed of dog is known for its stubborn nature and can be really difficult especially for novice dog owners to get the hang of. Patience and routine should be the keywords when dealing with a bulldog. Are English bulldogs good watchdogs? The English bulldog has a natural instinct to protect its territory. Even though the bulldog is not usually much of a barking dog, in the case of an intruder it is well equipped and confident to take on the challenge at every cost. Are English Bulldogs dangerous to their owners? The English bulldog is not a dangerous pet. It is very much territorial and somewhat apprehensive to unfamiliar faces, but once it warms up to you, the bulldog is one of the most loving and loyal dogs. How much exercise do English Bulldogs need? The English bulldog on average needs about 30minuites of exercise every day to keep it mentally and physically healthy. Are English Bulldogs family dogs? The English bulldog may seem aggressive at first glance but you will get to find that they have a contrasting character to their appearance. They are perfect around children and can play all day. They are extremely lovable and friendly. How big do English Bulldogs get? English bulldogs can weigh up to 50 pounds and can grow as tall as 15inches. Male or female English Bulldog? This depends solely on the owner as both genders have their specific pros and cons. English bulldogs are very friendly and warm dogs and are amazing around children. No wonder they are one of the most sought-after breeds in the world. Are you interested in purchasing a English Bulldog? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

For those who might not know what a Bernedoodle is, they are the result of crossing the gentle, hardworking Bernese Mountain Dog, with the intelligent and low-shedding Poodle. They are mostly known for their playful, easy-going nature and they make great family dogs. However, with the large influx of puppy mills and bad breeders in the country, you definitely would want a reputable breeder that is known for producing high-quality puppies that are well-socialized, possess decent temperament, are highly intelligent, and of course, are healthy. This article provides you with a list of 5 good Bernedoodle breeders you can check out in Maryland, United States. These breeders were selected based on their breeding program, socialization practices and a lot more. It is worth stating that this article should only be used as a guide towards finding the right Bernedoodle for you, perform your personal research on all breeders you intend to work with or patronize. With that being said, we do recommend that you read till the end, as it promises to be both engaging and informative. They are located in Oakland, Maryland, and are known for raising Goldendoodles, Golden Retrievers, and Bernedoodle puppies. Their Bernedoodles are mostly first generation puppies with hybrid vigor. They have been raising good-quality puppies since and their dogs have excelled as family, show, and service dogs. The breeding facility is owned and managed by Alton and Barbara Kauffman. As stated earlier, the kennel facility is located in Oakland, Maryland on a nice property. There are staff members mostly members of their families available to help with providing the necessary attention and care to all their newly produced puppies. The puppies get to sleep in a cozy kennel with enough space to call their own. They are well-socialized and even given basic training. Since most of the puppies they produce are first generation puppies, a lot of their breeding dogs are mostly purebred dogs with impressive bloodlines. They all come with decent pedigrees and are properly tested for genetic health issues before being added to the program. They have good working hips, elbows, eyes, and patellas with certifications to show for it. All puppies come with a 2 years health guarantee. Al-Bark Kennels Contact Details. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Baltimore Maryland and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups!

Testimonials 3 Submitted by: Clay Slack on Nov 18, We got our third golden from thistle rock and he is fantastic! Was wanting a great field retriever but worried if he could also be a family dog that we could tolerate in the house. The dog is an awesome retriever and is very enjoyable in the house. My wife loves him. Lynn was a great help in getting the puppy and we could not be more happy! It was great meeting you Lynn and much thanks from Austin. Submitted by: Ann Sutmar on Dec 31, I am not one to normally write reviews, but I truly can't help myself in this certain scenario. Our family purchased our very first Golden Retriever, Bentley, from Thistle Rock and we could not be more in love. We are not a family that hunts, but we are extremely active and love spending time outdoors, and his personality fits in perfectly! Thank you so much, Thistle Rock! We are SO in love and would recommend your kennel to anyone that is looking to add a golden to their family!! I am not a hunter but she is the smartest, best mannered, most enjoyable Golden I have ever had. We had not heard of Thistle Rock prior to an ad in the paper, but we would definitely go back. Thank you for our wonderful dog DJ who is a great addition to our family. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Elk River Minnesota and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted!

They are clear of known diseases for the breed and over other genetic diseases and sub-variants. We also apply proper nutritional practices and supplements for joint and muscle health, practice non-impact exercises to decrease possible damage to both bones and joints. Our professional breeders also provide educational information to potential buyers and anyone interested in canine health and genetic testing. We are working with other breeders to proactively address the benefits of genetic testing for health and breed purity. The Importance Of Genetic Testing For American Bulldog Breeding In the past, breeders have relied strongly on phenotype when breeding, which allowed the introduction of other breeds. To reverse this tendency to breed by phenotype only, it is crucial that the American Bulldog community work towards having genetic testing as a fundamental practice in their breeding programs. The coefficient of relationship is a measure of the degree of a biological relationship between two dogs. Our Client Reviews "Awesome farm and knowledgeable breeder! Remy is everything we wanted and more! Words cant describle your devotion to this breed. Great experience with extremely educated breeders! Our Partnership with Experienced Veterinarians Think About It Farms is working with veterinarians from both the genetic and research fields. The veterinarians are assisting us in the proper care, nutritional needs, exercise, determining which hereditary qualities and behaviors are considered beneficial to improving the breed, developing practices of selectively breeding, and raising the dogs to promote these desirable traits. Call us today at to learn more about our American Bulldogs and our efforts to preserve them. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic American Bulldog Overview American Bulldogs are generally happy, family-loving dogs that do well in homes where they have plenty of space to roam. A big, fenced-in backyard is practically a must-have for one of these energetic dogs, though exercise needs may vary by specific type and breeding. They may be just fine with urban life, so long as they get plenty of walks, and they can even make good jogging or running buddies. They do not, however, take very well to being left alone for long periods of time, and they can feel cooped up in an apartment. American Bulldogs need experienced owners who can be patient with training and start socialization early. Whether they are used for hunting and farm work or just cuddling up with their humans, the American Bulldog makes for an excellent, loyal companion and a competent watchdog. American Bulldog Highlights Temperament: They are known for their loyalty, protectiveness, and affection toward their families. American Bulldogs are often described as gentle giants, making them good family pets. Intelligence: These dogs are intelligent and trainable, but they can also be strong-willed. Early socialization and consistent, positive reinforcement training are crucial to ensure they grow into well-behaved adults. Exercise Needs: American Bulldogs are an active breed that requires regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy activities like daily walks, playtime, and even agility training. Lifespan: The average lifespan of an American Bulldog is around 10 to 15 years, depending on genetics, diet, and overall care. Family Compatibility: American Bulldogs can make excellent family pets when raised in a loving and consistent environment. They are known for their patience with children and are protective of their human family members. Guardian Instinct: Due to their protective nature, American Bulldogs can be good guard dogs. They are naturally watchful and alert, which makes them capable of providing security. These two lines may have slight differences in appearance and temperament. Always check local laws and regulations before acquiring one of these dogs. American Bulldog History The ancestor of the American Bulldog is the Old English Bulldog, which was brought to North America by working class immigrants who wanted to keep their working dogs to help on the farms. Rather than being concerned with maintaining breed purity or certain genetic traits, early farmers bred the dogs with the best working qualities for all-around farm work. Wild pigs were an invasive species not native to the American south that had no natural predators, and the strong jaws and muscular build of the American Bulldog was perfect for hunting them down. They were originally used in the barbaric sport of bull baiting. By the end of World War II, the American Bulldog was almost extinct until a few breeders scoured the south for specimens to revive the breed. Today, the American Bulldog is in no danger of extinction and is mostly a family-friendly companion. Adorable American Bulldog puppies will grow to 20 to 28 inches in height and 60 to pounds by the time they reach adulthood. Although these sizes are considered to be standard for the breed, American Bulldogs can be quite a bit larger or smaller. American Bulldog Personality American Bulldogs are friendly, intelligent, and affectionate , though that affectionate nature often leads them to be territorial and overly suspicious of strangers. This makes them lovely family dogs and watchdogs, even for families with children, but they will need socialization training, especially as puppies to get along with unfamiliar humans or other dogs that stop by for a visit. Luckily, their intelligence makes them highly adaptable and trainable. The American Bulldog is a playful breed that has some high exercise needs, and they do well in families that are able to stay active with lots of walks and play time. They can develop in American Bulldogs and may require surgical removal for treatment. It can lead to itching, hair loss, and skin irritation. Treatment typically involves medicated baths and sometimes oral medications. This can lead to weight gain, lethargy, skin issues, and other health problems. It is usually managed with lifelong medication. It can lead to lameness and discomfort, and severe cases may require surgical intervention. Elbow Dysplasia : Elbow dysplasia is another developmental disorder affecting the elbows. It can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis in the affected limb. Treatment may involve medication, weight management, and in some cases, surgery to correct the condition. American Bulldog Care Most of the care that is necessary for the health of an American Bulldog is meeting their needs for exercise and mental stimulation. Failing to do so can result in anxiety, boredom, and destructive behavior. So long as those needs are met, the rest is fairly standard. Maintain normal vet visits, check their ears weekly, keep up with monthly nail clipping and normal dental care. One of the issues you may face is the potential for drooling that is common among bully breeds. You should take care to wipe your dog as needed unless you want a generous amount of slobber all over your home. American Bulldog Feeding An American Bulldog diet should be formulated for a large to giant breed, and their high energy level should be taken into consideration. Their needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood. You should discuss with them how to form an appropriate diet for your dog. Traditionally they are white with patches of brindle, red, or black, but there are quite a few more color variations to the breed in modern times. They may have patterns that include shades of black, red, brindle, brown, or fawn. American Bulldogs usually have black on the nose and the rims of the eyes, but they may also have shades of pink. Their eye color is usually brown. Although these are breed standards, some American Bulldogs have been known to be merle or have coats that contain shades of blue. Weekly brushing should keep it under control with baths as needed. So long as they are trained properly, American Bulldogs are great with children and are very loyal to all members of the family. It is also important to train children on how to properly handle and treat animals to avoid incident. American Bulldogs are large animals, and overly energetic play can cause injuries. The same can be said for interactions with other pets. So long as American Bulldogs are socialized and trained, they usually get along with other dogs just fine. Play should be supervised, especially with smaller dogs that can easily get hurt when playing with a large, muscular American Bulldog. You can also check local shelters near you, or you can use our adoption page that lets you search by breed and zip code for adoptable dogs. American Bulldog Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues. More Info For You. Their personalities are easy to love; they have a confident demeanor and are known for their almost clown-like antics when excited, making them an excellent family companion. This breed is quite family-oriented but may be distant with strangers at first. Their characteristic aloofness to outsiders helps make them great guard dogs. With consistent training and established rules and boundaries, this powerful pup can learn with the best of them. As a working breed, they were known for their wild pig and cattle catching abilities, making them indispensable on southern ranches in the US. Grooming Hurray for easy care! Make sure your vet gives your pup a professional cleaning every year, too. Be sure to put nail trimming every couple of weeks and ear cleaning monthly is usually enough on the grooming menu, too. And as for baths, plan on a bath about once a month or so. You may be able to just use your nose. If you detect an unpleasant odor eww! Training When it comes to training, an American Bulldog puppy needs a confident pup parent who uses positive reinforcement to teach various skills, such as how to walk nicely on a leash and come when called. Start training your American Bulldog puppy early to get them used to the ropes. Once you understand what works for them, training becomes easy. Remember: American Bulldogs are smart. These social interactions give your dog a chance to explore a variety of environments and social situations. Feed your puppy large-breed puppy kibble for their first 14 months to support slow but consistent growth. Skip food or supplements with calcium until your pooch is fully grown and eating an adult diet. The added calcium could disrupt healthy bone development. Treats are an essential part of training and a great way to show your pup you love them. However, too many treats can lead to a tubby pup, so check with your vet if you need help figuring out a proper treat-to-mealtime ratio. Exercise Even though they have a moderate energy level, an American Bulldog needs a lot of exercise. And exercise is important to keep your dog out of trouble. If they have unused energy, an American Bulldog will resort to destructive behaviors to release that energy, like chewing on your favorite pair of shoes. This athletic dog benefits greatly from structured walks and play to work the mind and their muscular build. As a puppy parent, strive to offer non-impact movement such as hiding balls in the yard or offering a puzzle toy, as these games lower the risk of joint and bone damage early on. Get out of the house twice a day or more if your young dog is up for it for playtime and walks that last between 20 and 30 minutes. Trainers often suggest skipping the dog park because structured play is more difficult in this setting. Instead, get creative with activities. Think: fetch, tug-of-war with a rope toy or a chewy option filled with something delicious. You may even try lower-impact dog sports like agility or nose work. Both are an excellent way to keep your pup mentally and physically engaged. Remember, a happy dog is a tired dog! Ideal Environment Both city and country homes will suit the American Bulldog as long as you can offer lots of exercise and playtime. Still, families with kids are a good match for this protective and intelligent breed. A structured day with regular walks and chances to play with a variety of toys is the best environment for the American Bulldog. Staving off boredom is paramount, and, of course, no animal likes to be home alone for a long time. When considering the American Bulldog as a pet, bear in mind that training is the key to their success, especially when adding this breed to a home with kids or other dogs. Pup parents need to be aware of some of these issues so they can help their dog live the healthiest life possible. Joint Dysplasia: This joint abnormality is seen in the hips and elbows, and a dog with dysplasia may run, jump and climb less than usual. Most often, the issue is a rupture or partial tear. Cherry Eye: Did you know dogs have a third eyelid? Bone Cancer: Often found in the long bones arms, legs , the cause for this condition is unknown, though vets feel it may have a genetic or environmental component. Deafness: Deafness, which can occur in one or both ears, may be acquired via drug exposure or infection. But deafness could also be hereditary and is linked to dogs with light coats and eyes. Acquired deafness is usually permanent but may improve over time without intervention. A special diet may be the treatment or medications, depending on the cause. Spinal Issues: Degenerative myelopathy DM is often genetic in nature and affects the spinal cord, leading to weakness and hind limb paralysis. Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis: NCL is an inherited, progressive and rare neurological disorder that starts showing up between 1 and 2 years of age. The most obvious symptom is behavioral changes in the dog, and the pup will usually lose coordination and eyesight. It can be discovered through a DNA test, and at this time, there are no treatments. This proud pup carries an imported pedigree, having been brought over from across the pond as a descendant of the English Bulldog, which was originally bred for bull baiting. Thankfully, this horrific sport was outlawed in England in .Back in the 17th century, early settlers packed these working dogs with them for service on farms and ranches. The American Bulldog became a utility player, stepping in to accomplish many tasks, such as guarding livestock and catching cattle and feral pigs. In fact, were it not for their success as an excellent catch dog in the southern states, we might not know the breed today. John D. Johnson and Alan Scott were able to breed the last few native American Bulldogs in the southern US, resulting in two types the Scott type and the Johnson type that thrive today. These breeds differ in appearance; the Johnson American Bulldog sports a bigger, stronger build, a larger head and short muzzle, and the Scott American Bulldog has more lithe features, such as an athletic, small-boned frame and a longer muzzle. Are you looking to add an American Bulldog as a family member? Check out the AKC puppy finder to find a reputable breeder. You can also seek out local American Bulldog rescues to find a worthy, loving dog to call your own, or keep an eye out for the breed at your local shelter. FAQs Do American bulldogs shed? Yes, American Bulldogs shed, albeit lightly and seasonally. Are American Bulldogs Pitbulls? Are American Bulldogs aggressive? American Bulldogs may be aggressive toward other dogs, particularly unfamiliar ones of the same sex, in part because of their protective and somewhat dominant nature. But with consistent training and early socialization, this breed is considered a loving family dog that does well with kids and other pets. How long do American Bulldogs live? American Bulldogs can have a generous life span, often living between 10 and 12 years. Providing your dog with the proper diet and exercise can help your pup live a full life. What are the most popular American Bulldog names? Get more dog names here. What are the most common American Bulldog mixes? Families of all kinds admire this agile, athletic breed and count themselves lucky to own such a loving, loyal pet. Female Names. Your browser does not support the audio tag. Description The very muscular, sturdy and powerful, yet compact frame of the American Bulldog remains higher on the leg, more agile and swifter than its English counterpart. Some individuals are reportedly able to leap six or more feet into the air. Males are characteristically stockier and heavier boned than the more refined females. The head is large with strong jaws. Agile and light on his feet, the chest is wide and moderately deep, giving the sense of athletic ability and power. The neck is muscular, tapering from the shoulders to the head and may have a slight dewlap. The head is square, large and broad with muscular cheeks relatively in proportion to the size and overall structure of the dog. There is a defined furrow between the rounded eyes, with a distinct, sharply defined, deep stop. The strong muzzle is broad and square. The preferred bite is reverse scissors, but a moderate underbite, scissors or even bite are acceptable. A variety of ear types are acceptable including cropped, rose, half-pricked and forward flap. Uncropped ears are preferred in the American Bulldog Breeders Association standard. Eyes are most often brown, but can come in any color. They sometimes have split eyes, where one eye is brown and the other eye is blue. Black eye rims are preferred on white dogs. Pink eye rims are considered a fault according to the written standard. The nose is black, red, brown or grizzle; black is the preferred color according to the standard. In black-nosed dogs, the preferred lip color is black, though some pink is permitted. The lips should be full but not too loose. The front legs are heavy-boned, strong and straight. The hindquarters should be very broad and thick with well-defined muscles. The tail is low-set, begins thick at the base, and tapers to a point. The coat is smooth and short, and comes in all shades of brindle including red brindle, varying degrees of white, red, brown, tan, fawn and piebald. Temperament The American Bulldog is loyal, reliable, brave and determined. Not a hostile dog. Alert and self-confident, this breed genuinely loves children. It is known for its acts of heroism toward its master. It has strong protective instincts, and needs a firm, confident, consistent pack leader. Well-socialize and obedience train them at an early age, to prevent them from becoming reserved with strangers. Without that strong-minded pack leader who can tell the dog what is expected of it, it may be aggressive with other dogs. They need to be around people and know their place in their pack to be truly happy. This breed tends to drool and slobber. Without enough daily mental and physical exercise they will become high strung and may become hard to handle. Height, Weight Height: Males 22 - 28 inches 55 - 70 cm Females 20 - 26 inches 52 - 65 cm Weight: Males 70 - pounds 32 - 54 kg Females 60 - pounds 27 - 45 kg Health Problems Prone to hip dysplasia. Living Conditions The American Bulldog will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. Exercise The American Bulldog should be taken on a long daily walk. Life Expectancy. Life Span Did You Know? The American Bulldog is a descendant of a generic bulldog type of dog breed brought into the region that is now the Southern United States by working-class immigrants many years ago. These were all-around working dogs used by small farmers and ranchers for several tasks around the farm. They were often found working as catch dogs, stock dogs, and overall farm guardians. When feral pigs were introduced to the New World, they had no natural predators and the population quickly grew out of control. In addition to their farm duties, the settlers found the bulldog-type dog to be the best solution they had for dealing with it. So, the bulldog continued to thrive, especially in the South. Johnson and Alan Scott that we have what we know today as the American Bulldog. Modern American Bulldogs can still be found working as all-around utility dogs, farm dogs, catch dogs, cattle drovers, and more. They can also be found competing in dog sports, working as a guardian, police, or military dog, and are also popular as a family pet. This dog breed is a sweetheart with a gentle, fun-loving nature. The American Bulldog is affectionate and adores their families. They also love children and tend to be good with other animals. American Bulldogs can have a high prey drive, so you will want to make sure you introduce and socialize them properly with other small animals in the household. Due to their protective nature, they can be aloof towards strangers and strange dogs, especially when they are younger. Early socialization can help them be more comfortable navigating their guardian instincts. Overall, this dog breed tends to be confident, social, and are most at ease and relaxed when they are with the people they love. American Bulldogs are an emotional dog breed and thrives on human attention and affection, so they tend to bond strongly with their owners and may come across as clingy sometimes. They will also often convince themselves that they are lap dogs regardless of their size, so make sure you are ready for a lot of love and cuddles with your American Bulldog, drool and all! The American Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They are strong, high-energy working dogs that love being around their favorite humans. This makes them better suited to larger homes with space for them to run. They are not generally a good fit for apartment living, but they can adapt as long as they get more than enough exercise and attention. Because they do tend to bond strongly with their owners and want to be near them, they do not tend to do well with long periods of time alone. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, but can adapt to well to most climates. There are some health issues that can be found in specific genetic lines and are not common to the breed overall, but these can be ruled out with genetic tests. Some potential health conditions to be aware of in general with the American Bulldog include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, thyroid disorders, kidney disorders, bone cancer, and eye-related issues like ectropion, entropion, and cherry eye. Talking to the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances can help allay potential concerns. American Bulldogs are highly trainable and eager to please, so they are a good fit for owners of any experience level, including first-time dog owners. They can have a stubborn streak, so a first-time dog owner may want to consider enrolling in puppy training classes. As with any dog breed, early and ongoing training and socialization are important for your American Bulldog puppy to grow into a well-rounded, and a well-behaved, dog. This dog breed has a short coat that is generally smooth. Common coat colors are white and predominately white with patches of brindle, black, or red. More coat color patterns are emerging and becoming more common like all shades of brindle, fawn, brown, red, and more. The American Bulldog is relatively low maintenance and easy to groom and they are light to moderate shedders. They only require a bath as needed. But, you will need to be prepared to deal with some extra drool! Floppy ears tend to trap moisture and dirt, which can lead to ear infections. The ideal dental care for dogs is using an enzyme toothpaste or brushing their teeth every day. Dental hygiene chews or treats, a specially-formulated dental care diet, and more can be used to supplement your dental care efforts. The American Bulldog is an athletic and high-energy dog breed. They love daily walks and plenty of playtime outside. They may even enjoy plenty of other activities with you like swimming, hiking , and more. With their working dog background, this dog breed does need a job to do in order to stay happy and healthy. They also tend to be a good candidate for dog sports like obedience, weight pulling, the Iron Dog competition, and more. A fully-grown American Bulldog usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. An American Bulldog generally lives for years. Chance, one of the canine stars from the Homeward Bound films, was an American Bulldog. Featured American Bulldog Article. Less - The American Bulldog is a powerful, athletic short-coated dog, strongly muscled, and well boned. The body is just slightly longer than tall. The head is large and broad, with a wide muzzle. Ears are small to medium in size, high set, and may be drop, semi-prick, rose, or cropped. The tail may be docked or natural. The American Bulldog comes in solid colors, white with colored patches, and brindle. Gender differences are well expressed in this breed, with males typically larger and more muscular than females. Honorable scars resulting from field work are not to be penalized. The essential characteristics of the American Bulldog are those which enable it to work as a hog and cattle catching dog, and a protector of personal property. These tasks require a powerful, agile, confident dog with a large head and powerful jaws. The American Bulldog is a gentle, loving family companion who is fearless enough to face an angry bull or a human intruder. Note: It is common for young American Bulldogs to be somewhat standoffish with strangers, and judges should not penalize this. All over the world, they are used variously as "hog dogs" catching escaped pigs or hunting razorbacks , as cattle drovers and as working or sport K-9s. American Bulldogs also successfully compete in several dog sports such as dog obedience, Schutzhund, French Ring, Mondio Ring, Iron Dog competition and weight pulling.

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. Height: 26 inches Ratio: .This should give you their height. For example, 26 inches times 0. Using the other example, .Since each dog is going to be different, you need to look at their overall body condition rather than a weight range. Fortunately, there are body conditioning charts that you can use to figure out if your German Shepherd is at their ideal weight. Just look at them from the side and from above, feeling for ribs and pelvic bones when necessary. Younger dogs will also typically be on the thin side before they fully fill out as adults. Years of line breeding has produced several distinct types of Shepherds. Show dogs are known for a sloped back in which the back legs are shorter than the front. This unnatural formation can cause back and hip problems along with an abnormal gait. German Shepherds bred for show will also be thinner than their hardworking cousins. As you can see in this picture, this is a show-bred German Shepherd with an obvious curved back and short back legs. Working dogs, on the other hand, are bred for a sturdy, straight back so they can work long hours without getting sore. They tend to be thicker than show dogs and will, therefore, weigh more, even at the same height. As you can see in this picture, this dog has a straighter back and longer back legs, so it has been bred for working. Something else I wanted to mention here is that, according to some sources, Black German Shepherds are larger than their bi-colored cousins, despite being otherwise the same. So, if you have one of these rare and beautiful creatures, you can follow the same charts that were listed above. If your German Shepherd is diagnosed by a veterinarian as underweight or overweight for their age, then the first thing you should do is ask him or her to help you figure out the underlying cause of the problem. This will determine what should be done next. Do you have a giant German Shepherd? What about a tiny one? Comment below to tell us more about it! 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. American German shepherds have straighter backs then German shepherds. If you have a german shepherd and their lineages are close to their German roots they will have that arch in their back. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Since German shepherds are large, active dogs and are known to have hips that give out, it's important to make sure they have good nutrition throughout their lives. Make sure to buy healthy food that is not full of filler ingredients. For example, make sure you are feeding a quality food that contains animal protein and doesn't use corn for protein. You can feed your German shepherd dry or wet food, or a combination of both. If you choose to feed your German shepherd homemade meals, it's important to talk to your veterinarian about what they need to include. This will help ensure that the dog will get a balanced diet. Try to resist giving your dog table scraps, especially if it is begging for them. People food can be unhealthy for the dog and can impact its interest in its healthy food. As your dog ages, it will have different nutritional needs. Feed your dog a food that is designed for its specific age, such as a puppy food when it very young, an adult food when it is in middle age, and senior food when it is in old age. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source There are also specific formulas you may need to consider at some point, for example, special foods for large breeds or weight control food for overweight dogs. Talk to your vet about what food will work best for your dog. Because your vet will understand your specific dog's health issues, they may want it to get specific nutritional needs met. Instead, mix the foods together, gradually increasing the new food and decreasing the old food over the course of several weeks. Look at the packaging of the food to determine the suggested serving size. This should be based on the size and age of your dog. You can also talk to your veterinarian about how much they think your dog should be eating. It is best to divide your German shepherd's daily food into 2 or more smaller meals. Giving smaller meals helps to minimize the risk of bloat, which is a life-threatening swelling of the abdomen. Go to source When you feed your dog several times a day, your dog will need to relieve themselves shortly after each meal. Never exercise a German shepherd right after they eat since this could increase the risk of bloating. In addition to feeding it healthy food, the snacks you feed your German shepherd can have an impact on its health. Pick low calorie treats that are satisfying for dogs, including crunchy vegetables and kibble in a feeding toy that slows the dog's consumption down. Dogs can drink a lot of water every day and it's important that they do to prevent dehydration. Fill up its bowl with clean water every day and leave it where your dog has access to it. Also, check up on the bowl throughout the day, if possible, to make sure there is plenty of water available. However, German shepherds should drink small amounts of water throughout the day, instead of drinking a large amount at one time. Gradually hydrating throughout the day will ensure that the dog doesn't get bloat. Dehydration can be a threat to your dog's health. Signs that it might be dehydrated and needs more water include excessive panting, loss of appetite, and dry nose or gums. If you see these symptoms, give your dog water immediately. Go to source Advertisement. German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Welcome to our German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Different breeds like all different babies develop at different rates. There are going to be many exciting events for you to look forward to. Whether you are bringing your 8 week German Shepherd puppy home or about to be blessed with a litter of puppies. This is going to be an exciting, demanding but hugely rewarding journey. Newborn puppies are born at around days after fertilization. Newborn puppies are born with their ears and eyes tightly sealed. The reason eyelids are sealed shut is to form a protective barrier for the fragile developing eye. This helps to protect them from any foreign object, bright lights, bacteria or any other microorganism that can cause disease or damage. In the same way puppies ear canals are closed at birth to make them effectively deaf. This is a protective barrier to protect the fragile underdeveloped machinery needed to hear. In a mature ear the pressure caused by sound will mechanically move structures in the ear. German Shepherd puppies are highly dependent upon their noses. Puppies navigate by smell from the moment they are born. This helps them to identify their mom, the very important milk supply, siblings and surroundings. Newborn puppies are born with a fur coat however they cannot control their own body temperature yet. To keep them warm they are dependant on their mothers or another heat source. If you live in a cooler climate installing a heat lamp would be ideal to help keep the puppies nice and warm. Germans Shepherds make amazing mothers and will be relied on a lot at this stage. Mother dogs will only leave their newborn puppies to go to the toilet, eat and drink. However, when mom has gone the newborn puppies are not completely useless. They are able to use their front paws to drag themselves towards a heat source. When mom is away the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat. Along with being able to drag themselves to a heat source newborn puppies are also able to drag themselves to their mothers to locate the milk supply. They will move their heads around to search for a nipple, latch on and suck strongly. Newborn puppies are not born with teeth these will also develop in the next several weeks. Other than the above puppies are completely dependent upon the care of their dedicated mom. Newborn puppies have little control over the rear end of their bodies. To encourage their pups to pass urine and bowel movements the mom will lick their bottoms. Anything produced mom will then lick up and swallow to keep her puppies and nest clean. Some pups will even double their birth weight! Your German Shepherd puppy will still be highly dependent upon their mom at this stage. Beneath all their fur the vital organs will be working hard to mature. This includes the eyes. Your puppy will not be ready to open their eyes yet but lots of changes are taking place to prepare them for grand opening. The ear canals will begin to open around the same time as the eyes. When the ear canals do open, the ears are much more formed than the eyes are at this point in time. Their eyesight usually takes around 8 weeks to reach its full potential. When their eyes become wider, they will reveal blueish-gray eyes which are hazy in appearance. Their eyesight will continue to develop until around 8 weeks old. The ear canals will also open around 2 weeks. The puppies hearing has been developing much quicker than their eyesight and they will be able to hear most things by the time their ear canals fully open. However, their amazing hearing ability will continue to enhance over the next several weeks. At the moment your German Shepherd puppy will have cute floppy ears. Their adorable tall ears can come up anywhere between 8 weeks and 6 months of age. Floppy ears are common until your German Shepherd finishes teething. By then the ear cartilage will become strong and hard enough for the ears to stand up permanently. Now is a good time to start handling the puppies and get them used to your voice. Most puppies are wormed for the first time when they are 2 weeks old. All this development has happened so quickly, but things are about to get even more exciting. Between 2 and 4 weeks your German Shepherd puppy will begin to stand up this is when the real fun begins. Puppies milky teeth will also start to develop between 2 to 4 weeks. These sharp little teeth will remain until about weeks of age. These little daggers play an important role during the weaning process. Even the most patient moms will struggle to nurse with these sharp painful teeth. This reluctance to nurse will prompt the German Shepherds to seek alternative food sources. These sharp teeth will then help to make up for the lack of jaw strength when eating solid foods. Finally, these sharp puppy teeth play an important role in teaching the pups to gauge their bite pressure when playing with their mom and siblings. This is an essential life lesson that enables our powerful German Shepherds to become safer companions as they mature into strong adult dogs. During the last few weeks mom has done an amazing job of getting her babies strong and their mobility will have come on leaps and bounds well not quite yet but by 3 weeks of age your German Shepherd puppy will begin to trotter around. Most 3 week old German Shepherd puppies can stand and sit. With their baby teeth starting to cut through a lot of breeders. Especially those with large litters will start introducing some solid foods. This helps relieve some of the pressure for the devoted German Shepherd mom. When weaning puppies, you need to start off by soaking their food in either water or puppy milk replacement formula to make it mushy and more comfortable for them to eat. As they start to interact and play with their siblings their personalities will really start to show. You may also notice them starting to playfully growl at each other. At 3 weeks old it will become easier to start identifying different members of the pack. Breeders and moms will be kept on their toes and paws over the next few weeks. As the pups start getting more confident on their feet they will be running around and playing enthusiastically. At 4 weeks old they will begin to wag their adorable little tails. With solid food becoming a major part of their diet the pups will be passing bigger bowel movements. They will be able to show more control of their bowel movements as they take themselves away from their brothers and sisters to perform their business. At this stage mom will be taking a much more relaxed approach to parenting and there will be a lot more for the breeder to clear up. By this point mealtimes are a messy process. If it is warm and safe enough to do so we would recommend taking the pups out in the yard for feeding. German Shepherd puppies are becoming a lot stronger at vocalisations by 4 weeks old. When mom returns to her babies the litter will noisily greet her. Around 4 weeks of age your puppies will need to be wormed again. From this week onwards human interaction is very important in order to form relationships with people. Including different noises and smells. This exposure will ensure your German Shepherd puppy turns into a confident, friendly individual. Mom will also be doing an important job of teaching her puppies to not bite too hard. Even an 8 week old German Shepherd puppy would have the power in their jaws to break the smaller bones in humans fingers. This is why mom teaching her puppies bite inhibition is so important. For more information on bite inhibition please see our guide on German Shepherd bite inhibition. By 5 weeks old German Shepherd puppies will be eating a lot of solid foods, several times throughout the day. Those sharp little teeth would have done their job and mom will be gradually weaning her pups of the dependency on her milk. When mom does feed her puppies, she will only do so for a short period whilst standing up. They will be eating between five and six small meals a day. Although the pups no longer rely on mom for milk, they still need her help and guidance for the next few weeks. Mom will be teaching her babies important life skills to live alongside humans. In some countries 6 week old puppies are taken away from their mothers and moved into their new home. We would not recommend this as the puppies will miss out on continued bite inhibition training from their siblings and mother. This can result in a puppy who bites too hard which can be challenging to manage as they get older. In the USA your puppy will be due their first combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 6 weeks old. This vaccine helps to immunizes your puppy against hepatitis, parvo, distemper, parainfluenza and coronavirus. Most puppies will also need to be wormed again at 6 weeks old. Their last week together will consist of plenty of socialization and playing. Most breeders will arrange a 7 week health check up with the vet to make sure your bundle of fluff is fit and healthy to go to their new home. In the UK some breeders will arrange for the pups first 8 week vaccination to take place during this check. Although some vets advise against it. By the end of this week German Shepherd puppies are ready to leave their mothers and move into their new homes for good. The week you get to take your new puppy home. This will be a very exciting time, but you may also be feeling a bit nervous. There will be some challenged along the way for new puppy owners and your puppy will take some time to adjust to life without its mother and siblings. In the UK the first combined vaccination will help to immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. The first puppy injection in the UK typically will happen between 8 and 10 weeks. Some breeders would have trained the puppies to poop and pee on newspapers or puppy pads. From the moment you get them home it is important to show your German Shepherd puppy where to pee and poop. Puppies naturally like to pee where they have done so before so to avoid building history of peeing in your home is best if you can to avoid it. The more you can avoid accidents from happening as much as possible from the start the faster the puppy training process should be. All puppies are different, and some will get this quicker than others. The main thing to remember is not to discipline your puppy for accidents. The most successful way to potty train is to reward success and ignore accidents. Just clean them up quickly and thoroughly. Your puppy will love nothing more than being praised. For more information please see our guide on How to potty train your German Shepherd puppy. Already your German Shepherd puppy will feel like part of the family. German Shepherds puppies are always adorable but at 9 weeks they are at the age where they are still puppy-like but very clumsy,curious and keen to play with her new family, which is very cute. Your German Shepherds unique personality will make you feel very proud. At 9 weeks your cheeky German Shepherd pup will be feeling more confident, with this the need to explore everything and anything may end up getting them into trouble. Your puppy will develop new sleeping patterns and feeding routines which you will need to adapt to. Most puppies will sleep between eighteen and twenty hours a day at 9 weeks old. During the day when you are with your puppy generally you will not need to shut them away in a crate to nap. German Shepherd puppies are often more than happy to sleep whilst family life goes on around them. However, there will be times when sleeping in a crate is better and safer for your puppy. You must not leave a 9 week old puppy to sleep outside the crate if you are not home to watch them if they wake. Puppies are into everything and many innocent items found in the house could be a potential hazard to your inquisitive pup. For more information please see our guide on how to puppy proof your home. Even if your puppy can barely keep their eyes open other pups and children will still want to play and your German Shepherd puppy may find it hard to refuse. After a hard day of play the peace and quiet of a crate will enable your pup to have a well-deserved nap. If your German Shepherd puppy does need to go to the toilet in the night make sure you keep it short and to a minimum. Establishing a daily routine is the best way to get your German Shepherd puppy to sleep through the night. Part of this schedule will involve mealtimes. Your 9 week old puppy will need four meals a day. Split these up throughout the day and try to stick to similar times. This is to stop encouraging your puppy to wake up earlier and earlier because they associate waking with food. You should always reward your puppy either vocally, with a favourite toy or treats for good behaviour and ignore bad behaviour. Puppies and dogs want to be praised so they respond very well to positive encouragement. Punishing puppies and dogs may have a short term positive effect on their behaviour but long term you could be setting them up to fail. It is very important to socialise and expose your puppy to other humans, dogs and different scenarios whilst they are young. This maybe hard before your puppy has had all its vaccines however getting many different people to come and visit you at your home will enable them to get used to visitors. Before their full vaccinations you can also, you can take you German Shepherd puppy out and about with you to expose them to the outside world as long as you can carry them. If you live in the USA, your puppy will be due their second combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 9 weeks old. In the USA a minimum of three sets of the combined vaccine are required for your puppy. Although you cannot put your puppy down outside until after their final vaccination. Puppies 10 week injection In the UK is a booster vaccination to help immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. Check with your vet what date after their jabs your German Shepherd puppy will be able to go down outside. Your puppy will then need a booster between 6 and 12 months old. If you live in the USA at 12 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be due their booster for the combined 5in1 vaccine against hepatitis, distemper, parainfluenza, parvo and coronavirus and a vaccine against rabies and leptospirosis. If you live in a high risk area, they may also need to be given the vaccination to help immunize them against Lyme. If applicable at 16 weeks your German Shepherd puppy may need to have a fourth combined 5in1 vaccine. A minimum of three combined injections are required in the USA. Check with your vet what date they will be able to be out down outside. By 10 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be able to control their bladder a lot more. Potentially up to several hours. This is great time for you to introduce them to the big wide world and develop their social skills which you have already been building the foundations. When taking your German Shepherd puppy out try to introduce them to as many other friendly dogs, humans and noises you can. This will help your German Shepherd puppy to grown into a confident well-rounded dog. At 3 months old your German Shepherd will go down from four daily meals to three. These three portions will be larger than what they are used to which may cause stomach upset. If your German Shepherd puppy does get an upset stomach, try going back to four smaller meals for a couple of days and they try the three larger portions again. This can be a challenging time as your adorable German Shepherd puppy turns into a furry crocodile. Luckily the teething stage is only a phase as with human babies and short lived. In most cases your puppy biting should stop around when they are around 7 months old and have their adult teeth. You maybe noticing your German Shepherds gorgeous ears fluctuating between floppy and pointy. By the time your puppy has finished teething their ears should tick up all the way. This usually happens around months. As they grow their cartilage becomes stronger. Some puppies need another month or so to help them cope without going out for frequent toilet breaks. Even when your German Shepherd puppy is toilet trained occasional accidents are normal. German Shepherds do have large ears but they tend to grow into them as they get older. German Shepherd puppies will begin to grow their new adult coat between 4 and 6 months old. To make way for their adult coat all the puppy hair has to go. For several weeks you will notice an increase in shedding. This is a completely normal part of growing up for your German Shepherd. Being a double coat breed German Shepherds dogs have a topcoat and an undercoat. Twice a year your pup will shed their undercoat. Usually in spring and again in fall. They also shed in general days a year so be prepared for a lot of fur! They will very much look like a smaller version of their adult selves. Although your German Shepherd may look older on the inside, they are still very much a puppy. If you are looking to get your puppy neutered or spayed the recommended age is 6 to 9 months. However, it is common for some female puppies to get spayed at 4 months old. Summary: Your German Shepherd is bound to give you so much joy and happiness throughout its life. There will be challenges along the way but remember this is completely normal. German Shepherds are such an amazing breed and you will have a loyal friend for life. Related Posts. A general rule of thumb is that a puppy can hold her bladder for approximately one hour for every month old they are. Most puppies find their way to a new home at months old, so they should go for a toilet break every hours to start. How often should my puppy poop a day? Typically, most pups will go once or twice a day — although some may go four or more times! How many hours should a German Shepherd puppy sleep? On average, a German Shepherd puppy will sleep for 18 hours a day. Some pups sleep longer than others but they usually sleep between 15 and 20 hours in a hour period. As puppies get older, they sleep less. The average 4-month-old puppy sleeps a little over 11 hours a day. Should I sleep with my German Shepherd puppy? You should not sleep with your German Shepherd puppy during the first few months home. Yet you can let your pup sleep beside you in a crate or a dog bed. Until they are completely up, they flop around, go up and down. You can help your puppy to strengthen her ear muscle by whistling and making funny noises that perk up her ears. When do German Shepherds start teething? Starting at 4 months old, German Shepherds will begin to lose their puppy teeth. But some puppies start losing their teeth earlier or later. You may discover a discarded tooth on the floor. Or you may see a few drops of blood on her chew toy. And it is not uncommon for a puppy to swallow her tooth, which is perfectly normal. When do German Shepherds get all their adult teeth? An adult German Shepherd should have 42 adult teeth. The small incisors in front usually come in first, followed by the big canines, the premolars and the molars. All adult teeth should be in place around months old. Puppies use their mouth to explore their environment, so nipping is very common. This behavior, called teething, can last until the puppy is 6 months old when all her adult teeth have started showing. German Shepherds grew into their full size between 18 months to 2 years old. But they are not considered adult dogs until they reach the age of 3 years old. If your pup is still young, one of the most effective ways to calm her down is to give her regular mental and physical exercise. The rule of thumb is that you should give a puppy 5 minutes of exercise for every month old they are. For example, a 4-month-old puppy would need 20 minutes of exercise. When do German Shepherds get their full coat? She will start the coat change on her face first. Then her fluffy puppy coat will be replaced by the smoother adult coat down her back, towards to trail and gradually down her sides. When do German Shepherds start shedding? While their shedding is especially intense during the spring and fall, they lose their undercoat during the rest of the year. Other Than Vacuuming When should I bring my puppy for the first vet visit? You should bring your new puppy to see a veterinarian no later than 2 days after coming home. Some breeders require this within 48 hours as included in their sales contract. It is very important for your vet to examine your puppy to look for signs of disease. When should a German Shepherd puppy get her vaccination? Your German Shepherd puppy is recommended to get her first vaccination distemper and parvovirus between weeks of age. Here are the recommended vaccinations from AKC for your reference: Some dogs do not need every vaccine. You should always discuss it with your vet. When should my German Shepherd puppy be wormed? A German Shepherd puppy should be wormed for the first time at 2 weeks of age, then at 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 weeks old fortnightly until 12 weeks of age. After this, they can be wormed monthly until they are 12 months old. When do female German Shepherds go into the first heat? Female German Shepherds started their first heat as early as 7 months old, but this may vary from dog to dog. During that time, they may begin mounting other dogs or could become touchy or grumpy. There will be discharge and many owners use feminine pads and a diaper-type arrangement to keep the house clean. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior AVSAB recommends that pet guardians begin taking puppies on walks and public outings as early as one week after their first round of vaccinations, at about 7 weeks old. Instead of going for a marathon for the first time, it is advised to build up the distance with your GSD with time. Remember dogs cannot sweat like humans to reduce their body temperature. When can I walk my German Shepherd without a leash? Never let your dog go off-leash where there might be traffic or where he could injure himself. PART V German Shepherd puppy socialization guide Socialization helps them learn what to expect from the world around them and gives them the tools they need to navigate it as they get older. This includes new people, dogs, and animals, learning how to interact with new environments, and being exposed to a wide variety of sounds, smells, and sights. Socialization is especially important in German Shepherds starting from as early as 8 weeks old. This is because this breed is hard-wired to be protective of their owners as well as their property. Failing to socialize can make the dog become aloof to strangers. Other common signs of unsocialized in dogs include: Fearfulness or skittishness around unfamiliar people or animals Aggression towards other dogs or people Lack of confidence in new or unfamiliar situations Difficulty with basic training commands Inability to handle being handled or touched Puppies that are well-socialized are more likely to be healthy, obedient pets that make great additions to any household. They are intelligent dogs that can be challenging to train for first-time owners. However, with the right mindset, you can train your German Shepherd to become an obedient and well-behaved canine citizen in no time. At what age should I begin training my puppy? What should I teach my puppy first? Is it ok to crate my pup overnight? What are the basic commands every puppy must learn? How to motivate my puppy? Last but not least, we have compiled an easy-to-follow training guide. This training guide is our best effort in compiling a collection of training resources for any new GSD owner to kick-start training a new puppy — without wasting your time searching forever online. Each part is only one page long with at least one video for a demonstration. Puppyhood The first growth phase — puppyhood — has six development stages. During each of these stages, a puppy learns a lot of things. Neonatal Stage This period lasts from birth to 13 days. The puppy needs a lot of nursing from its mom because it is rather helpless. Its ears and eyes are closed, so it does not have any senses. The little pups should completely rely on their mothers for nourishment and care. By 2 weeks, they double their birth weight. They start crawling, and then their eyes and ears begin to open. The first milk teeth appear. The puppy can even stand up, but too unstably and shakily. This makes it possible for little ones to hear, smell, and taste. They even try to walk. Their baby teeth continue growing. The period between weeks is also called a transitional one. At the end of the third week, the motor skills start developing fast. The puppy can already control its temperature and body, namely, bowel movements. It begins to interact with its littermates. Nevertheless, the pup is still largely dependent on its mother. Though, you can interact with it. At the end of this period, the little cub is ready to explore the world. Its baby teeth are almost complete, and it can stand up more stably. It starts barking and growling a bit. The puppy grows quickly now. It actively interacts with its littermates. The baby dog can walk, and its baby teeth are complete. You can also consider the German Shepherd behavior stages from now. Its mental development starts because it discovers the world actively with its senses. Its walking improves, and it can make attempts to run, so it can even sometimes get in trouble. The puppy can start eating dog food. That is why it is important to begin weaning. The little one can recognize and greet its littermates and people, get interested in new things, and continue to explore the world. However, at this age, the first fear period can be experienced. Read our detailed guide about 6 week old German Shepherd puppy. It is the best period for taking your pet home. This period can be psychologically traumatic, so be careful not to expose the pet to direct sunlight because it may be afraid of it for its entire life. All the fears need your special attention. You need to nurture, but not encourage them. Read our detailed guide about 2 month old German Shepherd puppy. So, your puppy is three months old now. It is playful and active. Its teeth are complete. It is weaned and eats dog food. The feeding recommendation here is the overall one and a half cups, three times a day. It is also time to get your pet vaccinated against distemper and parvovirus. At the end of the third month, your little GSD can simulate its behavior after other dogs and humans. Training can start. Read our detailed guide about 3 month old German Shepherd puppy. Your puppy already has all its baby teeth, and adult canines and incisors begin to push through. It can even try to bite or nip you. The puppy coat begins to disappear and gets ready for replacement by the adult double-layer coat. You can see a racing stripe on its spine where the adult hair will grow. The puppy displays quick growth at this time, and it becomes stronger to withstand the possible fierce competition with its siblings if it is still staying with its family. It needs a lot of biting and chewing now for the correct growth of its adult teeth. Your pet needs consistent socialization and potty training now. After three months old, you should think about such vaccination as DHPP — distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. The juvenile phase lasts from 3 to 6 months, and it can be divided into three stages by month. Continue socializing and start more substantial training. You can consult the German Shepherd weight chart here to see whether your pup develops properly. So, be attentive to the games you play with your pet. Some of them can be dangerous and traumatic because your puppy may not know how to manage its body during them. You can give it two cups of kibble totally three times per day because it needs a lot of nutrition to grow. DHPP and rabies vaccines are recommended at this age. Your little pup is ready to explore the world. However, as a true teenager, it can become more stubborn and try not to listen to your commands. It starts to understand dominance and tries to persuade you in its leadership. Read our detailed guide about 4 month old German Shepherd puppy. During this month, it can gain about 10 pounds 4. Its ears have stably perked up by this time. It looks more like an adult dog but, as a true teenager, it is very playful and is always ready to go around. The adult teeth continue to appear. Sexual maturity starts emerging. You should feed your pet around two cups three times per day. A lot of training is also needed. Read our detailed guide about 5 month old German Shepherd puppy. It needs a lot of training and positive reinforcement. Now, your pet is fully house-trained, and it needs a lot of new experiences. The sixth month is a transition period to the Adolescent Phase. The ears are completely upright. Males achieve sexual maturity, while female puppies can experience heat cycles. Hormones start working, and male puppies can start marking the territory and looking for females to mate. The adult coat grows longer and gets its normal double layers. Adult teething is about to finish, and all 42 teeth appear. You should feed your dog with the overall two or three cups two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 6 month old German Shepherd puppy. Adolescence Phase Months German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years 36 months old. Females become adults when they are 2 years 24 months old. However, these criteria differ for every puppy. That is why the adolescence phase lasts from the end of the 6th month to the end of the second year of age 24 months on average. By the end of this phase, the puppy reaches its full size though it will continue slightly growing. Your dog can display testing boundaries, so disobedience is widely encountered if the dog is not properly trained. German Shepherds do not look like puppies anymore. Within this period, some dogs can display their second fear period at approximately months old , though to avoid long-lasting psychological trauma, you should ignore the fears. Some dogs may occasionally forget their skills that they have already acquired, so you may need to repeat training again. Here, the reinforced training is useful because some puppies can become entirely rambunctious. Your pet will also need more socialization since it reaches its sexual maturity, and some of its reactions can be pretty unexpected. Its sexual maturity continues, which may cause some aggression because of increases and decreases in hormones. The puppy does not gain weight so fast. Teething is finished. The German Shepherd starts looking more similar to an adult dog, with its standing up ears and well-developed muscles. The food your dog needs involves two or three cups total, given two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 7 month old German Shepherd puppy. It displays a lot of aggression. It can bark or lunge at other animals, kids, and unfamiliar people. A lot of training and reinforcement is needed. You can teach the youngster new tricks to deal with their aggression. The dog has strong adult teeth, and its ears are well-formed and perky. The transition to adulthood continues. As for food, your dog needs two-three cups in total two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 8 month old German Shepherd puppy. It does not grow fast, gaining about a couple of pounds per month. The dog needs two-three cups of food two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 9 month old German Shepherd puppy. They are very active and need a lot of attention and training. Sometimes, they can be really goofy or clumsy because they are still learning and do not know how to behave in many events. Your pup is very smart and clever but tends to display a lot of aggression if not supported and reinforced properly. The dogs should eat two-three cups in total per day. Read our detailed guide about 10 month old German Shepherd pupp y. It starts to challenge you as an owner and likes to demonstrate its leadership. You should teach it to be responsible and obey your commands. A lot of training and reinforcement is crucial. Still, give it two or three cups in total per day. It becomes a bit destructive, but be sure not to get angry or upset with it. It needs your patience and positive attitude. Such vaccines as DHPP and rabies are recommended at this age. It should also transit to adult food. Give it three or three and a half cups total twice a day. Read our detailed guide about 1 year old German Shepherd puppy. Years 1. This time is considered a transition period. The dog may have problems with fears and memory breakdowns. It may even forget how to do familiar things and should be trained again. However, its attention span is longer at this age, so it can have a more thorough obedience training. The dog should eat three or three and a half cups two times a day. Year 2 months — The Second Transition Phase This is one more transition period known as young adulthood. Your dog still displays some aggression. That is why they continue to need reinforcement, training, and socialization. It has already gained its athletic frame and strong muscle, and only several pounds are lacking for reaching its adult weight. In fact, you get a German Shepherd full-grown pet now. The DHPP vaccination is recommended at this age. Continue to feed your dog with three to three and a half cups in total twice per day. It has become a loyal and protective family pet or an obedient and enduring working dog. The young adulthood stage lasts from the second to the third year after the puppy was born. Its size is typical now for an adult dog. However, it may continue to grow slightly, but the changes are not noticeable at all. At this phase, you can also notice that your pet becomes more and more active. It needs a lot of exercise and training. A lot of physical activity is essential for the dog to stay in high spirits. The period between the second and third years of life is also called the adult growth stage. This is the time when your friend gets its excellent breed characteristics. It loves attention very much and continues to learn new things eagerly. The dog enjoys training sessions and strives for new experiences. It becomes calmer and more confident. Its hyperactivity slightly decreases. It displays a lot of self-control and discipline. Continue feeding your dog with three to three and a half cups twice per day. It will be its constant adult diet. Vaccination against rabies is recommended and required by authorities at this age. Seniority Phase This is the last phase of German Shepherd development. It may seem wonderful, but your dog can continue to slightly grow. The phase is divided into two periods — early senior years old and late senior years old. Unfortunately, you need to focus on its health rather than on training. Such health issues as hip dysplasia, joint pain, and decreased stamina can appear at this age. You need to have consultations with your vet more often. During this period, your dog does not change its weight and height considerably. Though, you can observe slight changes in weight. On average, these dogs live years. You need to attend to their health and comfort. The dog may remain energetic and playful, but it slightly slows down. It wants to rest more and gets much calmer. The animal may suffer from some pains, so it may need pain relievers for spine and joint problems and arthritis. It may also need nutritional supplements and changes to its diet. Special senior and sensitive stomach food may become the best choice. Avoid jumping and hard playing. Continuous veterinary monitoring is needed if some symptoms are worsening. The accepted proportion that is considered ideal is .The weight is usually not taken into consideration. If your pet does not correspond to this proportion, there may be a health issue you do not know about yet. That is why you need to monitor the parameters carefully. To be sure that everything is OK, multiply the length of your dog by 0. You will get the perfect height. However, there can be some divergences. If they are minor, you have nothing to worry about. The German Shepherd is rather thin, or even skinny. This results in bad proportions. The ideal weight of your German Shepherd is lbs kg for males and lbs kg for females. You can get either a heavy or obese dog, and it can be a result of overfeeding or certain health issues. How to Check the Weight of Your German Shepherd The simplest method to see whether your dog is underweight is to check whether the ribs are visible on the sides. If you can see that the shape of your dog reminds you of a barrel on the ribs, it means that it is overweight. If you cannot feel the ribs, but there is too much skin on the sides, your dog is overweight. However, if you feel the ribs and only a thin layer of skin, it is underweight. It does not matter whether your dog is underweight or overweight. In any case, it can cause health problems if you do not repair the situation. The best way to succeed is to make changes to the diet. If your German Shepherd is underweight, you should enrich the content of its food. However, do not make it eat if the dog does not want to. That can lead to more severe problems. Make a slow transition to food with higher fat content. Or you may even give your dog puppy food because it is rich in nutrients. If your pet is obviously overweight, the best thing is to cut off the food. However, you also need to do it step by step so that the dog finally can eat just half of the amount you have recently fed it. The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder and an average weight of pounds kg. Nevertheless, some German Shepherds can grow bigger and even reach pounds kg. You need to be sure about its proportions though to understand if your pet meets the standards. If you see some deficiencies, meet your vet for a more thorough evaluation. When does a German Shepherd stop growing? German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years old. Females become adults when they are 2 years old. How tall is a German Shepherd? The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder. An average male reaches inches cm in height, while an average female should be inches cm tall. The body of both males and females should be longer than their height. How big do German Shepherds get? How much does a German Shepherd weight? In general, an average male reaches pounds kg in weight, while an average female should be pounds kg heavy. This is a very strong and brave dog that can become a perfect guardian and protector. If you decide to take a GS puppy, you need to follow its growth stages accurately to be sure that it develops properly. You should follow a high-quality diet, provide your dog with a lot of exercise, and ensure its proper training and socialization. Your German Shepherd cannot stay healthy and active if it gets some health problems related to its weight or height. Sometimes, these issues are not obvious and understandable to the owner. That is why it is important to know the main development parameters of your German Shepherd growth stages to cope with possible challenges. We hope that this article, together with the weight and height chart, will become your effective and helpful guide. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Checklist Dog Crate Getting a crate for your German Shepherd puppy is quite crucial for the following reasons: Allows the puppy to feel secure Speeds up potty training Keeps the puppy safe by controlling his environment Conditions your dog should you need to travel and use a travel crate Some people erroneously feel guilty for crating their pup. However, dogs need structure, especially when bred from work-driven breeds like German Shepherds. A dog crate provides a sense of security by reducing the space around the pet. A room might be small enough for us, but placing the puppy in it will make him feel like he is in a large vacant warehouse. The necessity of getting a dog crate brings up the question of size. What size crate is best for a new GSD puppy? Read my post on the recommended German Shepherd crate size to find out the best size to buy and why. Opt for the size inch variety. You can move the divider to make more room as your puppy grows. I draped a dark-colored blanket over the top to make it more den-like. She was around three years old when I finally got rid of it, but some dogs enjoy them for life. As German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia, arthritis, and other joint issues, you should invest in a good crate pad. Dog Bed You might think getting a crate is the same as getting a bed. Some crates come with a matt or pad disguised as a puppy bed. Since German Shepherds are big dogs and do not take much time to grow to their full size, you will need an orthopedic dog bed to support their weight and protect their joints. My post on the best orthopedic dog beds for German Shepherds elaborates on the pros and cons of different dog beds. The gist is that you need a bed to prevent joint pain that bigger dogs experience. German Shepherds are prone to arthritis, and though a genetic element plays a role, bad crating practices can accelerate such problems. I chose the Big Barker because of the scientific evidence that it improves joint pain and stiffness in arthritic dogs, enhancing their quality of life. This means a lot to me as my German Shepherd was diagnosed with spinal osteoarthritis at only six years old, but it helps knowing she sleeps comfortably. I have to admit — I was also attracted to their year no-flatten guarantee. You can check out my full review of the Big Barker here. Novice dog masters also make things difficult through a combination of poor choices. Then they make the situation worse by opting for a collar and using tugging as a means of discipline. This is cruel to the dog and teaches him nothing. It is a front-clip harness, meaning you lead your pup from the front, which gives greater control and steering, making it impossible for your dog to pull. A fellow dog owner designed it, and it has all the love and care one would expect from an owner who is solving a problem he has previously faced — a dog that pulled. You can also learn more about my pick of the best no-pull harnesses for German Shepherds in this article. Toys German Shepherds are full of energy, which means they have to be surrounded by things that can exhaust their excess vitality, such as a range of chew toys, tug toys, and puzzle toys. These will stimulate his teeth, muscles, and mind, respectively. Toys help your new German Shepherd develop and stay entertained. You can also use toys to train a German Shepherd to find things and track, but that comes later. For now, you must make sure you get him a large selection of puppy toys. Your new best friend needs different exercise routines and changes in the environment, both of which can be normalized via travel. A car restraint allows you to secure your German Shepherd puppy in a car seat safely. Using a dog crate as recommended above will make it easy to communicate that car rides are okay. I like the Petmate Vari Dog Kennel because it comes in various sizes, and for the first few months, you might prefer a smaller crate. This model is made from premium plastic, does not require any tools to set it up, and has lots of vents to keep your pup well-ventilated. Poo Bags Your new German Shepherd puppy is going to be the cutest thing on earth up until he has to poop. At that time, how much you like having a GSD will be strongly correlated with how close you are to a poo bag. Regardless of whether you buy a pack of poop bags or accumulate enough disposable bags to cover a month of dog poop, you need to have something to carry dog waste. Remember, a puppy poops two to four times a day. Amazon Basics Unscented Dog Poop Bags are among the most affordable products in the category, with the bags supply being the most economical. These bags are 9 inches x 13 inches, which is a much more efficient size than the standard disposable bag. You might not need this size at first, but trust me; they are the best for an adult German Shepherd. Dog Shampoo You must get dry shampoo for your dog because German Shepherds do not need to bathe more than a few times a year. In other words, your new puppy is half a dozen baths away from adulthood. In the meantime, something is required to keep him clean, right? Tropiclean Waterless Shampoo for Pets is a high-quality, low-priced option made from natural ingredients like plum, oatmeal, and cucumber. It is backed by a market leader in natural wellness and has accumulated over 4, positive reviews and ratings on Amazon. Dog Food Food, water, and shelter are some of the basic needs of all mammals. Dogs are no exception, especially when they are bred under human supervision. Therefore, getting dog food is one of the most important prerequisites for bringing home a new German Shepherd. After that, just ensure you choose a large breed food. Bringing home a new pet is a joyful experience. You might find yourself constantly staring at the beautiful yet timid puppy, and it will take a couple of weeks for the puppy to feel at home. Until then, the dog will be open to cuddles and start interacting with the person who feeds him and plays with him. Make sure he spends time inside the crate as well as outside it. The dog may seem shy and aloof for the bulk of the first week, with the first day being his most seemingly introverted one. The dog will miss his pack and call out for them with whining or whimpering sounds or even barking. You should make sure he feels safe and secure and only comfort him through the night when you take him for a toilet break. Your German Shepherd puppy will need comfort, and you can do a few things to help him feel better. Comfort the pup to make him feel secure. Feed the puppy and make sure he is warm. Turn the lights off and make sure he gets enough sleep. Your new German Shepherd needs to get used to a schedule, work on independence, and see you as the leading figure. One of the differences you will notice when your puppy is freshly released from the breeder is his excessive appetite for sleep. Some might want the puppy to wake up to cuddle. Others will wonder if it is healthy for the puppy to sleep so much. In general, a German Shepherd puppy should sleep 8 hours at night and hours during the day. Though, the dog should not be forced to fit a schedule and must be left to determine how he divides his hours of sleep in the first few weeks of adoption. Final Thoughts The arrival of a new German Shepherd puppy can be an exciting time, but excitement can also inspire nervousness. The puppy will feel less overwhelmed and scared after the first 3 days and will further settle during the first 3 weeks. This is the time to have a good German Shepherd puppy training schedule so you know what to teach and when. Related Posts You May Like:. It is also a vital element for brain and eye development. Fresh chicken meat in the diet provides protein with high biological value. Natural Prebiotics to boost the overall digestive process. The benefits of Orijen Puppy Large: A calorie limited diet to promote a healthy weight and to put less pressure on joints. Rich in protein for making German Shepherd pups healthy and strong. Highly delicious chicken and turkey liver tempt the pickiest of eaters. The crusty and crunchy kibble texture of this food promotes good periodontal health and helps in curbing problems like Tartar and Plaque buildup. An essential fatty acid like Omega 3 has been added in the diet for boosting the overall skin health of the dogs. A natural antioxidant like Vitamin E fortifies the natural immunity of the pups, keeping them strong and healthy. You can feed your adult German Shepherd 2 times a day. You should avoid feeding them synthetic preservatives. High in Fibres: Natural fibres maintain superior digestive health and also an ideal body weight. Vitamin C: Vitamin C keeps the joints healthy, preventing problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis. Natural fibres promote excellent digestion and maximum nutrient absorption. The benefits of Fidele Adult Large Breed: Contains a substantial amount of protein for enhancing strength and endurance in grown up German Shepherds. Omega fatty acids boost skin health and also maintain good eyesight. It consists of Real Chicken meat as the main constituent which is favourite for German Shepherds. It has a good combination of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids that significantly improves the skin health of the dogs. They do not contain any fillers or preservatives which makes this diet completely safe for German Shepherds to savour. Breed Specified Recipe specially made for German Shepherds Real Chicken meat offers good protein content for supporting strong muscle mass Excellent blend of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids endow the dogs with good skin health. This dog food has a rich protein content that fortifies the muscle mass in the dogs. Moreover, the crusty texture of this food helps in removing Tartar and Plaque build-up. Ideal dog food for a large breed like German Shepherd Consists of Calcium and Phosphorus that boosts bone density Glucosamine and Chondroitin provides anti-inflammatory effect to the dogs Beet Pulp and FOS prebiotics boosts overall digestive health of the dogs Crusty kibble texture of the food eliminates Tartar and Plaque build-up 5 Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dog A highly nourishing meal that has Chicken and Barley as its primary constituents, the Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed is an easy-to-digest meal offering a nutritional profile that suits an adult German Shepherd. Omega 6 and Vitamin E promote beautiful skin and coat in German Shepherds. Ample amounts of protein maintain lean muscle mass and endurance. They need foods that are low in protein and fat content while richer in fibres. However, an overall moderate diet with all the components is also considered healthy, provided your dog trains and exercises regularly. A senior German Shepherd consumes around calories daily. They can be fed 2 times a day. Fish Oil Omega 3 : Fish oil is an excellent source of Omega fatty acids that provides a good anti-inflammatory effect to senior dogs. Fewer Carbs: As elderly German Shepherds are quite vulnerable to obesity and diabetes, a diet that has a low glycemic index is most preferred to them. A combination of Vitamin E and C, builds a stronger immune system. Devoid of artificial flavors and preservatives. Fresh meat and freeze-dried liver make the meal highly delectable. A biologically appropriate diet that nurtures your older German Shepherds according to their biological and evolutionary needs. Thus, when you adopt a German shepherd pup, make sure that you provide it with a fully nutrition loaded diet and maintain a lifestyle with lots of physical activities. A comprehensive diet including all the above parameters will lead to a healthy and long life span of your little beasts. An avid nature and animal lover, Akhil likes to read and watch anything related to wildlife. He also has a great interest in athletics, mainly track and field events and is a big Masala Dosa fan. More like this.

June is a little mini poodle about 12 pounds and Pele is small mini goldendoodle about 18 pounds. They are excellent choices for allergy sufferers because both parents have non shedding genetics with two dominant furnishings. These puppies will be super smart. We have had a past puppy professionally trained and he was a rock star! They will also have super soft coats. They were born August 1st and will be 8 weeks September 22nd. Meaning they genetically will have one curl gene. They are a great choice for allergy sufferers and will mature pounds. They were born July 29th and will be 8 weeks old late September. Love the coats on these mini goldendoodle puppies! They will have my favorite coat type and when grown will have very loose curls that will allow them to have a longer coat without so much maintenance. They will also be about pounds which is perfect athletic size. Most of them will darken in their red color as they grow out of their frosty puppy coat. They were born April 25th and are ready to go. Scroll down to see the current Goldendoodle Puppies and Litters that we have. Click the buttons that are below each announcement or use the top tabs on our website to see each litter. We frequently have Goldendoodle puppies with that classic teddy bear look. We also have Goldendoodle litters with dark reds, chocolates, blacks, creams, parti, and merles. Some of these moms have "past puppy" buttons so you can see what their puppies will look like as they become older pups and adults. Check them out and contact us for any questions or check out our "purchasing" page. With our guardian homes, we have grown to the point that we have Petite and Mini Goldendoodle for sale almost monthly. We also have mini Bernedoodles quite often. She is an F1b with a toy dad. Both parents have two dominant furnishings so these two puppies are a good choice for a family with allergy concerns. They were born July 28th and will be 8 weeks old Sept .This tiny little multigen Goldendoodle girl was born June 16th and is ready to go. As a single puppy after she was weaned from her mom we added her to a litter of petite puppies so that she could learn the normal doggie social skills. She is a precious puppy and very happy to be carried around and snuggled on! She weighed 3 pounds at 8 weeks and only 4 pounds at 11 weeks of age. Her mom, Rosie is a small goldendoodle about 19 pounds and the dad is Duggy also about 18 pounds. Baby Uno is tracking to be really small at about pounds. Both parents have two dominant furnishings which means Baby Uno will have a non shedding coat and a great choice for allergy sufferers. The parents are pictured together below. Click for Lisa's Mini goldendoodles This litter is the most popular generation of Mini goldendoodles. Jewel is a small F1 mom with a mini poodle dad. She's about 28 pounds with a wavy coat. The dad is Zake and he's a mini poodle weighing in around 16 pounds. He is a 10 out of 10 on red intensity so these puppies should have rich color as they mature. We can see that the size ranges a bit with the puppies but most are quite small. They will mature in the teens to maybe 25 pounds. We have both curly and wavy coats in this litter. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Birmingham Alabama and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted!

Our puppies are all over the world and would be happy to make you part of our puppy family. Thank you for visiting South Florida Australian Labradoodles. .We are the first multigenerational registered Australian Labradoodle in South Florida. We started in with our first mini Australian Labradoodle and fell in love with the temperament of this breed. Since then, we have held back mostly our own puppies and created the amazing lines we have today. We have generation after generation of our same lines, so our puppies temperaments are very predictable. We have since grown to our wonderful puppies being all over the world. We specialize in Mini Australian Labradoodles and know how important it is to know you are getting an Authentic Australian Labradoodle that is healthy, sound temperament, correct structure and amazing coats. All of our breeding dogs are registered and health tested to the standards of the ALAA. We adhere to a strict code of ethics, breed standard and strive to do everything with the highest integrity. All of our puppies are raised in our home and receive endless kisses by the time they go home. If you did not receive a response please check your junk mail. Mini Labradoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Comparison Two dog breeds, one purpose: to make your life a joy-filled journey powered by strong bonds, friendship, and unconditional love. Meet the Mini Labradoodle and the Mini Sheepadoodle. Two very adorable and friendly dogs with upbeat personalities, the Mini Labradoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle make the perfect addition to any lucky family. Your way of life, hobbies, and work schedule are all important factors that can help determine which of the two dog breeds is a good fit for your lifestyle.Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? They are fun, easygoing, and gentle. Mini Labradoodles enjoy canine games like chase, fetch, and Frisbee, and thrive on cuddles and love. Energetic, friendly, and full of life, the Mini Labradoodles make wonderful jogging and hiking companions. They are known to enjoy a good swim, a long stroll, and are very fond of adventures. The Mini Labradoodle puppies are happy, energetic, and bright bundles of joy. They are loving and eager to please, love to play and cuddle, and are excellent training students. A cross between Labrador Retrievers and Mini or Toy Poodles, the Mini Labradoodle may take after one parent breed or the other in appearance or they may have their own unique look with an added bonus of a hypoallergenic coat. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Miami Florida and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted.

Genes The cause of your Golden Retriever being skinny could be that it is genetic. This would be more likely if it was also relatively skinny as a puppy, it has not become skinny suddenly and if the vet has found no issues and you have been feeding it the right amount. In this case, it would not be something to worry about unless it has been showing signs of the cause being due to one of the things mentioned below. Diet The cause could also be that there is a problem with its diet. It could be the case that you have not been feeding it enough or that it has not been getting the right nutrients in its diet. It would help to consult with your vet about its diet and to make sure that you have been feeding it correctly and in the right amounts. You can also look here to see what you should and should not be feeding it. Exercise Golden Retrievers are a breed that is meant to get a lot of exercise on a daily basis so if your Golden Retriever is getting a lot of daily exercise it would likely be a good thing. However, it might be the case that it is not eating the right amount of calories to match it. This would be more likely if it was not skinny as a puppy and it has become skinny since being more active. Again, it would help to make sure that it has been eating the right amount of calories and it would help to ask your vet about it when you next see them. Illness Another possible cause is that it has gotten an illness or disease. This would be more likely if it has become skinny suddenly and if it has been showing other signs of being ill such as fatigue, not wanting to eat or vomiting. If it seems like it might be ill or it might have a medical condition the best option would be to take it to a vet. Stress It could be the case that something has been causing it to be stressed which is what is causing it to lose weight. This would be more likely if your Golden Retriever has started to become skinnier suddenly, if it has been showing other signs of being stressed and if there was recently an event that might have caused it to be stressed such as an owner leaving. Consider whether or not it has always been skinny If your Golden Retriever was not always skinny, it would help to consider what else happened when it first became skinny. If it did become skinny suddenly it would be more likely to be due to things such as illness, anxiety, suddenly being a lot more active without eating more or a sudden change in its diet. It would help to consider what else happened at around the same time that it became skinny. In this case, it would also be important to take it to a vet. Whereas, if it has always been skinny it would make it more likely that it is in its genes to be skinny. How to get your Golden Retriever to be less skinny Below are some things you can do to get your Golden Retriever to be less skinny. By doing so you will be able to get expert advice tailored towards your specific Golden Retriever and to rule out illness or medical causes. Make sure that it is getting the right diet It would also help to make sure that it is getting the right diet by talking to your vet about its diet when you next see them. Make sure that it is eating the right amount for its activity level When feeding your Golden Retriever it is important to consider how active it is. Generally, a Golden Retriever should be getting an hour of exercise per day. It is recommended for sedentary Golden Retrievers to eat between and 1, calories per day and active ones to eat between 1, and 1, calories per day. Shop All Cat Food Key Takeaways: A healthy dog weight can be gauged by a clearly visible waistline when viewed from above, and an abdomen that's tucked up and not even with or pooching past the rib cage. An underweight dog will often have visible bones in a number of places, including the ribs, the spine when viewed from above, and the base of the tail. It can be difficult to tell if your dog is too skinny. If you have questions, have a vet or certified veterinary nutritionist check your dog's body condition score. Is my dog too skinny? Answering this question can not only help you decide whether you might be over or underfeeding your dog; it can also tell you whether your pet might need to be seen by the veterinarian. Here's how to tell if a dog is too skinny, what might be causing your dog to lose weight and what being skinny means for your dog's health. Is My Dog Too Skinny? Many people have a hard time judging what's a healthy weight for dogs. This is likely due to the prevalence of dog obesity, which has led many dog parents to view overweight dogs as being at a normal weight, explains the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University. As a result, dog parents might see dogs who are at a healthy weight as too thin, which can lead to overfeeding them. How to Tell If a Dog Is Too Skinny Tufts University suggests having either a vet or a certified veterinary nutritionist check your dog's body condition score. This score offers an overall assessment of a dog's body fat, similar to the body mass index for humans. If they're at a healthy weight, your dog will have a body condition score of 4 or 5 on a scale from or a 3 on a scale from .Dogs with these scores appear lean, with a clearly visible waistline when viewed from above, and an abdomen that's tucked up and not even with or pooching past the rib cage. You should be able to feel their ribs beneath a thin layer of fat. If you suspect your dog is too skinny, here are some signs you can look for, according to Rover : The ribs are clearly visible or feel like they lie just beneath the skin, with no fat layer in between. The hip bones, shoulder bones and spinal cord are easy to feel beneath the skin. The bones at the base of the tail are protruding. The curve between the ribs and hips looks extreme when viewed from above. The spine and ribs are plainly visible when viewed from above. If you feel that your dog is too thin, you should consult your vet. They will assess your dog's body condition to either confirm your suspicions or put your mind at ease. And if your dog is underweight, it could be a sign of a larger health problem that needs to be addressed. Apart from starvation and improper care, here are the biggest reasons dogs tend to be underweight. Poor Nutrition If your dog is too skinny, one of the first things to check is that you're feeding them properly. Be aware that not all dog foods are created equal in terms of calories and nutritional value. Depending on the manufacturer and brand, one cup of dry dog food can contain anywhere from around to calories, says Tufts University. So while you might think one cup a day is plenty for your pooch, it's possible their food isn't meeting their daily calorie requirement. Check with your veterinarian for their recommendation on a high-quality dog food, and be sure to check the number of calories per cup to be sure you're giving your dog the correct amount for their size and activity level. Ask your vet if you're not sure how many calories your dog should be getting each day. Underlying Health Conditions Being underweight can also signal an underlying illness, especially if the weight loss is sudden. A number of health issues can cause weight loss in dogs, ranging from tooth pain to gastrointestinal discomfort to more serious conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disease and cancer. Your vet will conduct a thorough exam, along with bloodwork and a urinalysis, in order to discover or rule out what could be responsible for your dog's weight loss. Age It's fairly normal for some senior dogs to lose a little weight as they age, due to factors like reduced appetite, loss of muscle mass and digestive problems — all of which are common among aging dogs, says Pet Carrier Verdict. Talk to your vet about possibly switching your dog's food to something more age-appropriate and easier to digest. As common as some weight loss is in senior dogs, rapid or significant weight loss indicate health problems that need to be addressed. Getting Your Dog to a Healthy Weight If your dog has an underlying illness, proper treatment may help restore them to a healthy weight. Depending on the condition and your vet's treatment plan, this might include switching your dog's food to a therapeutic formula. Your vet will give you guidance on how much to feed your dog to help them achieve a healthy weight. For very thin dogs, vets might also provide a high-calorie options to help them gain weight more quickly. If your dog is otherwise healthy, adjusting their daily meal plan to ensure they're getting the proper amount of calories and balanced nutrition should gradually restore them to a healthy weight. While it might be tempting to supplement your underweight pets food, Tufts University cautions to avoid giving them table scraps, which can cause a nutritional imbalance that can actually cause them to lose weight instead of gaining it. Being able to notice whether your dog is at an unhealthy weight will prepare you to help prevent a number of connected health problems, and will help you keep your pooch healthy and happy. Contributor Bio Jean Marie Bauhaus Jean Marie Bauhaus is a pet parent, pet blogger and novelist from Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she usually writes under the supervision of a lapful of furbabies. Female Golden Retrievers should weigh between 55 and 65 pounds, while males should weigh between 65 and 75 pounds. The ribs, hips, shoulders, and backbone may be apparent and easily felt as physical symptoms. Furthermore, the abdominal taper between the ribs and hips may be severe, with little to no body fat. Bear in mind that each dog has its individual characteristics and body type which gets affected by multiple aspects, so as long as your dog is closer to this range, it is fine, but if you notice a huge difference, this should get your attention. Solution: Ensure the diet you choose is complete and balanced. Choose large, raw, meaty bones. For recipes and recommendations, check out my guide to Golden Retrievers foods and treats for every age here I even included homemade Ice cream, so make sure to check it out. Your dog could also be eating the wrong diet for their age. You can learn when and how to switch your golden to adult food here. Health Issues An underweight Golden Retriever or one that is losing weight too rapidly may be suffering from parasites, diabetes, or thyroid problems. This is especially probable if he has suddenly grown thin and has been exhibiting other symptoms of illness such as tiredness, a lack of desire to eat, or vomiting. Solution: If your dog appears to be unwell or has a medical issue, the best course of action is to take him to a veterinarian. This is more likely if his parents were skinny by nature or if he was reasonably skinny as a puppy if he did not become skinny abruptly, Solution: Pay your vet a visit, and If you have been feeding it the proper quantity and the vet detects no problems, then it goes back to genetics. It would not be a reason for concern in this situation unless your dog has been exhibiting symptoms of health issues. Stress Have you recently started leaving your golden retriever alone for long periods of time? Have you gotten more busy than usual? Have you gotten a new puppy? These can all cause your dog to feel stressed which may cause a lack of appetite and weight loss Solution: take a look at any changes that may have happened recently that could be causing stress to your golden retriever and try to get him used to this new environment. Solution: If you feed your dog dry food, you may want to try topping it with wet or fresh food, and try encouraging your dog to eat whatever there is by not changing food if he refuses to eat. Exercising routine Golden Retrievers normally need a minimum of 1 hour of high-intensity exercise every day to keep them healthy and free of any pent-up energy that may cause them to act aggressively or have a change of behavior. But if your dog is getting too much exercise and not enough nutrients to compensate, then he may lose weight excessively. Solution: the key is balancing between the energy that your dog spends and the intake of food that meets his nutritional needs. Change of Environment Did you move to a new house recently? Did you change parks? Has the staying or sleeping area of your dog changed? How to fatten up your golden retriever There are always methods you can use to make your golden retriever gain a little bit of weight, but make sure you choose the right, healthy track. Here are some tips that will help you fatten up your golden retriever: Feed your dog high-protein food Make sure the amount of exercise matches the amount of food he gets and not exceed it by a mile. If this does not improve, it is advisable to get him examined by a vet to inspect him and determine what is causing this. When to worry and check the vet? The slope from waist to hips is exaggerated and noticeable. These signs are often your red flag to go and see the vet. Related Questions What is the favorite food of golden retrievers? The favorite food of golden retrievers is dry kibble, canned foods, and a mixture of meat and vegetables. When it comes to taste, golden retrievers are huge fans of poultry, kidney, turkey, beef, and salmon. What to do if my golden retriever is underweight? If your golden retriever is underweight make sure he is getting enough food quantity and quality to satisfy all his nutritional needs and promote a healthy lifestyle. Is it normal for a golden retriever to be skinny? It is normal for golden retrievers to be skinny but extremely rare, as they are more prone to be overweight. Being skinny may go back to genetics, health issues, dietary habits, malnutrition, or even stress; pay your vet a visit to create a lifestyle that will keep your dog healthy. How can I make my puppy gain weight fast? Helpful Resources. As such, you may have a female or male with a weight slightly less than the ranges noted. However, provided that is their average weight, and the weight is stable, it is okay. They might be a smaller-sized dog, which is their normal. So, maybe the average weight for your female Golden Retriever is 53 pounds once fully grown; whereas, another owner has a female that is 63 pounds once fully grown. Both are healthy dogs with no underlying medical issues, and both are exercised and fed appropriately. Both dogs are at their normal weights because they were born to be that way. The baseline is one of the main criteria in determining if your Golden Retriever is becoming too skinny. Consider a large adult female Golden Retriever with a breed standard weight of 65 pounds. Notice that 55 pounds still falls within the breed standard or normal range for a female. Keep in mind that just like humans, weight can fluctuate daily and weekly. For example, a two-pound gain or loss might not be a reason to panic, especially if your dog is eating and seems otherwise healthy. It may just be water loss or gain, bowel movement, dehydration, or other normal fluctuations. However, once a Golden Retriever becomes an adult weighing them is not often easy or feasible, or we may be ill-equipped to do so. This is why it is essential to be aware of some of the physical signs of a skinny or underweight dog — it provides another tool as part of the weight management process. Often the first indications we have that our Golden Retriever is too skinny are the physical signs. Often these become the first indications that there is a problem, and we need to contact our veterinarian. Very little or no body fat. Ribs may be visible and easily felt. The curve from waist to hips is excessive and very obvious. This poor guy is grossly underweight too skinny and malnourished. Notice the protruding hip, back, and rib bones, and excessive abdominal taper. A very pronounced taper from waist to hip is one way to tell, and using your hands to feel for protruding ribs, shoulders, and backbones is also helpful. Your veterinarian may ask that you bring your dog in for an examination. Identifying an issue early on ensures you can work with your veterinarian to develop a structured plan to address the problem. Calories in must equal calories out. Your Golden Retriever will lose weight if: Its energy expenditure from daily physical exercise exceeds the intake of calories over a prolonged period. Calorie intake is below the level needed to maintain weight, i. The food is of poor quality. The dog is a finicky eater or fed table scraps, i. A change in environment or stress levels results in a loss of appetite or reduced physical activity, e. Regarding the last point, I wrote an article on common reasons a Golden Retriever might be suddenly lazy or lethargic, and it can be found here: A Lazy Golden Retriever? Do They Exist and Possible Causes. Please take a few minutes to read it as it identifies some reasons why a Golden Retriever may suddenly become less active. On the brighter side, provided any of the above is the cause, then the outlook is excellent. As a first step, a visit to your veterinarian is essential. Your vet will need to rule out any underlying medical problems that may be causing or contributing to the weight loss and determine the best course of treatment moving forward. Provided there are no underlying physical or medical causes; you may be required to do one or more of the following to help your Golden Retriever gain some weight: Change the brand of dog food to a more nutrient-dense one. Increase the amount of food at one or more meals. Decrease the amount of physical exercise. Address stress levels or a change in the environment. The key takeaway is that you should work in consultation with your veterinarian to rule out medical issues and ensure appropriate dietary changes. Then, monitoring and follow-up with your vet until the weight issues are resolved may be required. The most effective ways to ensure your Golden Retriever maintains a healthy weight is to: Feed it healthy, high-quality food. Provide the appropriate amount of food for its normal body weight and activity level. Ensure your dog gets adequate physical activity — not too much and not too little. Most Golden Retrievers are food-driven and enjoy eating. Therefore, if you need to increase the amount of food, it is usually well received by your dog. As well, Goldens are highly active dogs so getting them to exercise is typically not a problem. An inactive dog is usually a byproduct of an inactive owner. Keeping your Golden Retriever at a healthy weight is not all that different from us humans if you think about it. A healthy, well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and keeping our intake of calories the same as our expenditure is pretty much all it takes for us. Apply that same formula to your Golden Retriever and adjust as necessary, and there should be little to no issues keeping it at a healthy weight. And after that, they stop growing. Does your puppy weight according to this chart? When your puppy weighs more, it might be overweight. But, if it weighs lesser than the above value, it might be skinny. But how to know whether your Golden Retriever puppy is getting skinny or not? Sometimes, the owners fail to notice subtle signs that their puppies are getting skinny. Thus, it seems like they are ignoring their pals. However, if you are parenting a Golden Retriever puppy, neglecting its health can be dangerous. Therefore, look for these signs in your Golden Retriever puppy to know whether it is skinny or not: Are the ribs of your puppy visible? Does it feel like they have ribs just beneath the skin without a layer of fat? Can you feel the hip bones, shoulder bones, and spinal cord of your Golden Retriever with ease like they lie just beneath the skin? Are the bones in the tail of your Golden Retriever puppy protruding? Are the ribs of your puppy too clear? Can you get a clear view of ribs and hips from the top? And does it feel like your pal is hollow without tummy? Further, if your answer to all these questions is yes then, your puppy Golden Retriever is for sure skinny. Read further to get your answer. However, there are many reasons why your Golden Retriever puppy might be skinny. And, those influencing factors are: Genes Some Golden Retriever puppies are naturally skinny. Further, these dogs have a higher metabolism. And thus, they are less likely to gain fat. Besides this, when the parents are skinny, the puppies born inherit their genes. Hence, they become lean and thin. Can you? However, when your Golden Retriever is active and happy despite being skinny. Then, it is natural. Picky Eaters Most Golden Retrievers can eat any and everything. But still, you will find a few dogs nagging about their food. Further, since puppies are new to the environment, they need time to get familiar with the surrounding. So, picky eating is more common in puppies. So, these puppies avoid their food and become skinny. Thus, they prefer peaceful and quieter surroundings. Besides this, when puppies are new to the surrounding, it needs time to settle down. But if their new environment is noisy and disturbing, they may be anxious, uncomfortable, and nervous. So, instead of accepting the surrounding, they suspect everything as a threat. Hence, puppies stop eating, playing, and interacting with people. As a result, a puppy Golden Retriever will be skinny. In addition, extreme environmental conditions like too much hot and too cold might also make a puppy Golden Retriever aggressive and destructive. Thus, it avoids its meal. Sickness Or Injury Owing to the complex genetic makeup, Golden Retrievers are more susceptible to several health issues like cancer , hip dysplasia, joint problems, eye disease , ear infections , allergies, etc. As a consequence of these diseases, the dogs lose their appetite and become skinny. Besides this, puppy Golden Retriever is very playful and active. So, they like to run, play, and jump here and there. Thus, they are prone to injuries. Therefore, due to the immense pain of injures, the puppy loses its appetite. Poor Breeding When your puppy Golden Retriever comes from an abusive breeding environment, it is less likely to have an interest in eating and playing. Since those puppies lost trust in people, they resent everything. Thus, these dogs avoid eating food served to them, assuming it is a threat. Further, these puppies are vulnerable and emotionally unstable. So, they have a lesser urge to eat and are skinny. Too Much Or Too Little Activity Generally, for proper development of bones and joints of a Golden Retriever puppy, it needs at least an hour of exercise daily. So, when your puppy lacks adequate physical training, it might be lazy, inactive, and moody. As a result, it stops eating its food. Thus, intense physical activities might degrade their bones and results in strain and tearing of ligaments. Therefore, your pal will experience immense pain and loses interest in eating. In addition, limping , grunting , frequent barking, and biting are the most common signs that indicate your pal has health issues. Underfeeding Since puppies are in a growing phase, they require more nutrients in their diet. But some owners fail to understand this fact. So, they end up underfeeding their pal. As a result, a Golden Retriever puppy becomes skinny. Thus, low-quality dog food can make your puppy underweight. Furthermore, you cannot use human foods for your puppy. Since your pal cannot digest those foods, it suffers from health issues like constipation , bloating, diarrhea, and skin rashes. Along with this, adult dog foods are low in carbohydrates and proteins. Thus, adult dog foods cannot provide adequate nutrition to your puppy Golden Retriever and make it skin. As humans, it is essential to manage the weight of Golden Retriever. Moreover, a study also says that a healthy Golden Retriever can live more. So, after you find that your puppy Golden Retriever is skinny, you might want to increase its weight. Schedule The Daily Activities When you schedule all the daily activities, you ensure your pal is living a qualitative lifestyle. Further, you can feed, train, and play with your pal at an appropriate time. Thus, it keeps your pal happy and active. Besides this, you can also manage the essential foods and time for serving your pal through the schedule. As a result, your pal will get an adequate amount of nutritious food to gain healthy weight. Hence, your Golden Retriever puppy will get its ideal weight. Thus, you can change your schedule accordingly to help your puppy get an ideal weight. Although, low-quality food might be cost-effective. Besides this, Golden Retriever is an expensive and sophisticated dog. Moreover, qualitative dog foods are high in nutrition and contain the exact number of calories that will help your puppy gain weight. Feed Frequent Small Meals If your Golden Retriever puppy has a small appetite, feeding it frequent small meals can be a good idea. Further, ensure the small meals contain all the essential nutrients for your pal so that it can gain weight. Generally, if you manage the meals properly, your pal tends to eat more through frequent small meals than a single meal. Hence, it is helpful for your skinny Golden Retriever puppy to get some extra pounds. Incorporate More Exercises Exercise and physical activities burn the calories of your dog and make them calorie deficient. Thus, your pal tends to eat more after exercise and training. Besides this, exercise helps in the proper development of the bones and joints of your pal. So, it gives a healthier life to your furry friend. Furthermore, adequate training helps to discipline your pal. Hence, a trained Golden Retriever puppy follows your every command and eats what you offer. As a result, your puppy can gain weight. However, be careful about the intensity of exercise. Since puppies have weaker bones, avoid intense physical workouts. But you can give behavioral training like potty training , bite inhibition training , barking control training , and training to control aggression to your puppy. Use Weight Gain Snacks Since some Golden Retrievers might not find meals appealing, you can entice those dogs to eat using special high-calorie treats. Further, as per professional suggestion, you might even give your pal higher protein and fat-rich food that helps to gain extra pounds. Besides this, some supplements can also help your puppy to get the missing nutrition in its diet. So, try food supplements. Along with this, you can even include healthy natural foods as snacks. Thus, you pal might eat more and gain weight. How are you helping your pal to gain weight? Further, while choosing dog food, make sure that your puppy likes it and is high in nutrition. However, if you are struggling to find the right food for your pal, I will try to narrow down and include the best options below: Natural Foods To Fatten Skinny Golden Retriever Puppy Since Golden Retrievers love their owners , they always search for ways to get closer to their owners. So, the food options that are healthy and easily available in the kitchen are: Lean meats: To increase the calories in your puppy, you can steam, boil, and roast food high in proteins like chicken, turkey, fish, and lean cuts of beef. Sweet potatoes: As cooked skinless sweet potatoes are rich in Vitamin A, they can promote strong nerves, bones, and muscles. Thus, they can be a superfood for your Golden Retriever puppy to gain weight. Peanut butter: Besides being tasty, peanut butter is higher in fats and proteins. Thus, it can help your pal gain extra pounds. Pumpkin: Although pumpkins are cheaper, they are rich in Vitamin A, zinc, and fiber. Besides this, they hydrate your pal. Therefore, pumpkins can be the best food for the health of your puppy. Thus, they are:. Why are some Golden Retrievers Skinny? Some Golden Retriever owners become worried if they notice their dog is skinnier than others of the same breed. The truth is all dogs are different! While your dog may appear skinnier than others, they may be just as healthy; however, it is important to keep watch on their weight! Many influences can cause a Golden Retriever to appear skinny. Some of the most common reasons include injuries, disease, stress, old age, picky eating, etc. A lot of Golden Retrievers are naturally skinny either from genetics or exercise. Goldens are a breed that require a lot of exercise, so it is no surprise that they are a skinnier breed! NOTE: Stress is a major factor in Golden Retriever weight loss, most of the reasons listed above are driven by stress! Injuries, old age, and illness can not only cause weight loss themselves, but the extra stress added on can make the weight loss even more significant. Stress can also be caused by environmental factors such as moving to a new house or going on walks in strange places; this can cause a Golden to become uncomfortable and stressed, leading to weight loss. Thank you, Karen B. How to know if my Golden Retriever is Underweight? There are several ways to see if your Golden Retriever is underweight including keeping track of their weight and checking to see if any bones are showing because of their lack of muscle mass. Another great way to check and see if your Golden is underweight is to look at them from above and from the side. TIP: A vet will typically use a body condition score chart to determine if your Golden Retriever is at a healthy weight or not. A healthy Golden will have soft, shiny, dense fur ; however, when they are underweight, their fur may appear dull, course, sparse, or it may even stop growing completely. Not only are there physical signs to tell if your Golden Retriever is underweight, but they may also have behavioral changes. If your Golden Retriever is losing weight and you are unsure why, there could be more serious issues going on than just their genetics or extensive exercise. Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers are prone to a wide range of health issues, more so than a lot of other breeds. This is why it is sometimes hard to determine what is causing a Golden to lose weight so drastically. One of the most common causes of rapid weight loss in Golden Retrievers is that they have developed worms. Thankfully, this is easily treatable by medication and should go away within a couple of weeks. TIP: Dog foods with probiotics are a good option for dogs who have had parasites! It is usually easy to tell if your Golden Retriever has developed parasites here are some of the most common symptoms: Weight loss.

Raising dogs for you and your family. Call or text .Every breed has different requirements, whether the space they must have or the amount of exercise they need. If you are not certain yet, check out our essential White German Shepherd breed info to find out everything about the White German Shepherd. How to find White German Shepherd puppies for sale? When buying a puppy, it is important to consider not only the pet but also the breeder. Because a responsible breeder will ensure their dogs come from the strongest bloodlines and have the best start to life. Ask about the health and temperament of their White German Shepherd pups as well as their living environment. But also find out about the breeder's practices and commitments. A good breeder will be happy to answer everything before you decide. After all, they will want to ensure that their dog goes to a good home. When you have done your research and got all the info you need, you can then choose the right breeder with confidence. To help ensure you choose a responsible breeder, all the White German Shepherd kennels you see listed here are verified by Pets4You. You will also find that the best breeders will provide a guarantee with their dog. This information, and more, is available on the breeder's website within Pets4You. Browse through our dog breeder directory with complete breeder profiles and current puppies for sale to find your dream dog. Disclaimer It is the duty of every person that is considering buying a puppy or dog to confirm all the information provided to them by the breeder is accurate. Pets4You makes no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the condition of any dogs offered for sale, the standards or practices of any breeder, the quality of their canines, or the accuracy of any information contained within our site. Pets4You does not endorse, recommend, or guarantee a particular kennel, breeder or dogs listed on the Pets4You website. For Buyers. Located in beautiful Southern California, we strive to breed superior quality family dogs that will not only make great companions and protectors for your family but that also represent the German Shepherd breed well with the exceptional temperament the breed is known and loved for worldwide. We breed only top German V and VA bloodlines that possess superior health and temperament through generations of hip and elbow certified and temperament tested dogs. Additionally all of our dogs are tested for Degenerative Myelopathy to be sure we are producing puppies safe from this disease. Additionally all of our dogs are DNA tested Clear for the MDR1 gene that can cause mild to severe reactions to a variety of medications. Please visit our testimonials page to read review from many of our clients through the years. Also be sure to visit our Dogs For Sale page to see retired females and males we currently have available to the right homes. Check back often as we are always updating photos of our available puppies. With keeping a small number of dogs we have time to give plenty of love and individual attention to them and the puppies when we have them. Our dogs are not kept in kennels, they live with us as part of our family, with room to roam outside on our one acre property and a warm spot inside to sleep. All puppies are raised inside our home in a clean and healthy environment. All whelpings are supervised by us and assisted as needed to ensure the best start and to protect the health of the mother and her puppies. All puppies are well socialized with small children, cats and our other dogs. Temperament is very important to us, our breeding dogs have wonderful temperaments that they pass on to their puppies. Puppies are temperament tested so that we can help you to find the perfect fit for your family and your needs. We actively show our dogs on the local, national and international level thereby striving to breed dogs of quality bloodlines and structure that adhere to the German SV standard for the German Shepherd dog. We make every effort to continue to learn and to improve our bloodlines by importing dogs of superior quality with top German VA bloodlines to bring you the highest and best quality puppy for you and your family to enjoy. Our hope as breeders is that we can provide the best quality German Shepherd puppy with an outstanding temperament that will in turn make a lasting impression on you and your family like they have in ours. I have so many customers that have been lifelong fans of the German Shepherd, that have grown up with German Shepherds and long for that companionship again with the dog of their childhood. I look forward to providing the dog of your dreams to you and your family! Call today to begin your future with a great German Shepherd Dog of your own. Call or email for an appointment to visit us and to meet our dogs and puppies. Male deposit 1- ES Female deposit 1-CM Male deposit 2- Female deposit 2-VP Male deposit 3- Female deposit 3- Male deposit 4- Female deposit 4- If you would like to know litters coming later than this please give us a call Before you place a deposit, Please download or print our guarantee and contract. Fill it out and return to us either by texting it, scanning and emailing or through regular mail. Remember that regular mail is slower and cause you to not get the spot you want if I get other deposits and contracts before yours. Once I receive your signed contract and your deposit, I will sign one and send one back. New-contract-June 15 We distribute the best dry food available for dogs and cats! Most people want to feed the best and LA is just that! Or if you will be taking home a puppy soon, make sure you buy a puppy start pack. The start up pack is on the same page as the food. Performance shows what the dog IS. If you wanted to ship your puppy, you would need to first come to our kennels and then ship the puppy out yourself. Or you can use a ground transportation company. By placing a deposit on a litter not yet born, please keep this in mind and be willing to move your deposit onto another litter at a later date. This allows us to offer puppies to pet homes at a more affordable price. You will still get AKC papers except they will say limited. If you bred a dog that was registered limited, then you would not be able to register the offspring. This limit however, can be lifted by the breeder. That said, while it can be done, I strongly urge anyone who lives in an apartment to think carefully about how much time and work it can be to keep a large, working dog in an apartment. I will not sell a puppy to anyone who lives in an apartment and leaves the dog home alone all day. At least one person needs to be home during the day. The dog needs to be taken outside to play at least once a day and taken for potty breaks many times EVERY day. Also, please check with your apartments rules on German Shepherds; some complexes do not allow them. New strains of the Parvo Virus are abundant and it is my job to keep puppies safe. I use a high titer Parvo Vaccine at 4 weeks but this may not protect all puppies. So please understand as much as you would like to visit with your puppies as they grow I can no longer allow this until they are 7 weeks. I will send out emails with pictures or videos weekly. No outside dogs are allowed at anytime. Thank you for understanding how important it is for me to keep the puppies safe. If you do visit other breeders, please do so on a different day that you visit. Von Ward Kennels will take back any puppy at any time in their lives if their owners can no longer care for them. Please never take a Von Wards dog to a shelter if you can no longer keep them. While most of our dogs are larger than the standard, we do have a couple of breeding females that are within standard. Their lovely mostly cream or white colored coat makes them quite rare and highly sought after among canine lovers within the country. Just like the regular German Shepherd, they are blessed with the same level of intelligence, which makes them easily trainable and highly versatile. They make great dogs as family companions as well as therapy and service dogs. As stated earlier, German Shepherds with a white colored coat are quite rare in the country, as only a handful of breeders within the US are dedicated to these German Shepherd coat types. With that being said, there are some white German Shepherd breeders residing within the country but you still would need to search for a reputable breeder with good breeding practices and programs. This article attempts to ease the search for you as we provide you with a list of some reputable white German Shepherd breeders residing in the USA. The article also provides the contact details of these breeders to help make it easy for you to contact them. It is very important that you only view this article as a guide toward helping you find the best breeder possible. Personal research is still highly recommended. We also recommend that you read this article till the very end as we reveal our personal pick from the list of white German breeders below. As their name already suggests, they are top breeders of premium quality white German Shepherds. They started their breeding program in the year , so they have over 10 years of breeding experience behind them. They are genetically health tested for genetic health issues and are rated by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, OFA to show they have good working hips, elbows, eyes, and hearts. Their newly produced puppies should each come with their written health guarantee. The puppies are raised as family dogs and not kennel dogs. This means they get to live in the family house in Middletown, Connecticut, and not in a kennel. They are loved and cared for by members of the family, given their full nutrients in puppy food and supplements and they are properly dewormed and vaccinated at the appropriate age ranges. All their dogs are properly handled by people of varying age groups. They are introduced to new stimulating experiences to help build their confidence. We have always enjoyed the outdoor life, hiking, camping, dirt bike riding, and horseback riding. The White German Shepherd has proven to be an amazing companion that fits right on in with everything we do and life is so much better when we have a loving, loyal companion in our lives. Many years ago our family bred Rottweilers. We still love the breed but found the White German Shepherd to be a better fit for our family and friends. We have had White German Shepherds in our lives since .We fell in love with the breeds family oriented personality, incredible intelligence, athleticism, sense of humor, adaptability, loyalty, kindness to children and smaller animals and traits of a loyal family protector. When searching for our parent dogs, we searched for intelligence, good conformation, good genetics, straight backs, upright ears, beautiful kind almond shaped eyes, athleticism, calmness, sweet temperaments and loyalty. We found all these traits in our Duke and Duchess. Our puppies are part of our family; they are raised indoors in a comfortable, climate controlled home. They play inside with us and outside in the sunshine with our watchful eyes on them. They are raised and socialized around children, our family, our friendly neighbors and our horses. We have a health guarantee with each puppy's bill of sale. We are here for support if a new puppy buyer has questions. Our puppies will have a health examination from a veterinarian before leaving for their new home. We love our puppies and want each of them to be the right fit for their new forever homes. We give the new owner an AKC Puppy Folder with healthcare tips and training tips, a bag of puppy food that the puppy has been used to eating, and lifetime support. Puppies will be 8 weeks old on April 18th and ready to join their new homes. We are often busy having fun with our dogs and horses. And we will respond as soon as possible. Thank you so much! We look forward to meeting you and showing you our beautiful dogs and puppies! We live near the beautiful Ventura County area of Southern California. AKC proudly supports dedicated and responsible breeders. We encourage all prospective puppy owners to do their research and be prepared with questions to ask the breeder. Rocky Oak. Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in Southern California? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Southern California cost? German Shepherd puppies are priced on a wide array of factors including but not limited to gender, attributes, coloring, temperament and more. You may be connected with a puppy in your region but in addition to standard and white German Shepherd breeders in Southern California, we also have a network of breeders and companies nationwide that are able to safely make travel arrangements for puppies to any of the 48 states in the U. If you prefer to match exclusively with a Southern California German Shepherd breeder so that you can meet and pick up your puppy in-person, you can also specify that in our MatchMaking process. How do you vet breeders with German Shepherd puppies Southern California? The only German Shepherd breeders Southern California, and our larger national network, we work with are chosen based on their caring, expertise and commitment to legal requirements. What are the advantages of using Uptown Puppies? Uptown Puppies takes the stress and hassle of trying to research breeders and puppies on your own and makes it a fun, satisfying experience- just like finding a puppy should be! By using our completely free and unique MatchMaking service, we prioritize making the right connections and promoting the most responsible breeders and networks. Any German Shepherd adoption Southern California that goes through Uptown Puppies can rest assured that we do not allow puppy mill breeders or companies within our network. Unlike many puppy mills, we see puppies as much more than a mere profit and put the utmost importance on the humane treatment of animals. If you are looking for a conscious driven German Shepherd Southern California to adopt, Uptown Puppies has you covered. Are there purebred German Shepherd breeders in Southern California? Yes, the breeders and companies within our network do have purebred puppies in addition to German Shepherd puppy rescue Southern California. If you are ready for German Shepherd adoption Southern California style, we are ready to help! How will I be matched with a breeder or puppy? The Uptown MatchMaker process is designed for us to get to know your lifestyle and unique needs for a new puppy before matching you. Why should I choose Uptown Puppies? We think our reviews and reputation speak for themselves. Uptown Puppies has a proven track record of listening to our customers and connecting them with a trustworthy breeder or business so that the only thing our families have to worry about is welcoming the newest member of the family. First you must find your foundation. I started thinking about how nice it would be to have a German Shepherd Dog like when I was young. I remember how pretty they were so I told Jeffrey, "I want a German shepherd". He immediately went on the hunt. He loves that stuff. When Jeff started showing me the dogs he was finding I couldn't believe what I was seeing. It is so hard to find a old fashion discerning yet calm, straight back shepherd these days. We found out the show dog people, changed the appearance of the Shepherd. It all looks legit so we bought a couple. I didn't care how much money or time I had in them or how great their paperwork said they were I had enough. I couldn't take it anymore. It was not what I wanted. Next Shepherd dog we found was the working line. We got a beautiful pup we called Titus. When we went look at him as a pup I mean he shined. He was like his owners shadow. He never got tripped on and moved like the wind. I knew that this dog had a high prey drive but I didn't know he didn't have an off button. We loved him but at a year old we placed with a man who lived on an 80 acre farm. Lord Jesus, what happened to the big beautiful straight back family farm German Shepherd Dog? I mean who would have thought? How hard could it be? But nowadays, what we were wanting was the minority. Most shepherds now either have the curved back that they swear is healthier, tested and winning everything. That is how they separate them now. They need a job, a serious job. They to hyper and to prey driven for what I wanted. Thanks to The Good Lord Jeff had ask me several times if I would be interested in the white shepherd. I said, "That is exactly what I want. We bought off different litters. These dogs are mentally smart. They are like a human with fur. They will understand your language and they learn everything very very fast. You should just be able to tell them once or twice and they get it. They potty train very fast! They are clean dogs. Most GSD tend to be wary of strangers or aloof, but not ours. Their drive to retrieve things makes them a companion for entertainment. They love kids. Who better to trust watching over the kiddos than the trusted loyal White Shepherd. I know my own and my own know me. According to an article in USA Today, 1, sheep fell off a cliff to their deaths in Turkey in .One sheep fell, so the others followed suit and jumped. In the end, sheep died. The ones that survived only lived because they were cushioned by landing on top of their fellow herd members. As a child growing up in church, I remember seeing a picture of Jesus with a lamb wrapped around his neck. As I grew older and visited more churches, I remember seeing similar pictures at a lot of places. I never questioned the image. The Bible is clear that God is our shepherd, and we are the sheep of his pasture, so I assumed the image demonstrated that biblical truth. However, several years ago while I was attending seminary, the image of the lamb wrapped around the neck of Jesus was explained to me. Because sheep tend to stray and will also follow wherever they are led, shepherds often had to discipline lambs that would stray from their shepherd. The shepherd would use his rod to break the leg of a wandering lamb. After binding the break, the shepherd would carry the lamb on his shoulders while the wound healed. If the lamb struggled and fought, it would quickly realize that the broken leg wouldn't allow it to flee. The lamb learned during the healing process that the shepherd could be trusted. The lamb needed the shepherd to provide food, transportation and protection. Once the wound was completely healed, the lamb was fiercely loyal to the shepherd and wouldn't stray from the shepherd's leading. A few years ago a news story broke about Shrek the sheep. Shrek was a Merino sheep who lived in New Zealand. Shrek became famous because he managed to avoid being captured and shorn for six years. His wool continued to grow and thicken, and his eyes were eventually hidden behind the thick coat. Shrek dodged the sheering by hiding in caves and running from his master. Once Shrek was finally captured and shorn, he carried 60 pounds of wool on his body, nearly six times the average amount. The wool on Shrek's body was enough to produce 20 men's dress suits. It's easy to see why the Bible compares us to sheep. We often follow the crowd, even when it leads to our own demise. We stray from the shepherd who loves us and seeks to protect us. We don't appreciate when God disciplines us. But if we surrender to him we learn through the discipline that God can be trusted. We are often like Shrek the sheep as well. We hide from God, clinging to the things that need to be shorn from us. We become weighed down with the burdens God could easily remove from us. The Bible also shares with us that God anointed his people with oil just as the shepherds anointed the heads of their sheep with oil. This wasn't just a symbolic ritual. Sheep are easy targets for flies, lice and ticks. A sheep that was not covered in oil on his head could easily become the victim of infestations of these pests. However, it wasn't just a nuisance. Bugs would crawl through the ear canal of the unoiled sheep and nest in its brain, eating away at it. The pain from the bugs would be so severe on the sheep that the sheep would bang his skull on rocks and against trees to ease his suffering. The sheep could break his own skull seeking relief from the brain-eating parasites. When God offers to anoint us with his oil, it means he offers us protection from the parasites of this world that seek to eat away at us. If we hide in caves, or jump off the proverbial cliffs of this world, dodging his anointing and protection, we may become victims of this world. We may become so filled with pain that we hit our heads against rocks to ease our suffering. God seeks to shepherd us through this life. Oftentimes that is through discipline, sheering or anointing. But it is always with love, and it is always with our best interest at heart. He is our shepherd. He can be trusted when we surrender to his leading. Jamye Lanning Duncan is a curriculum writer and has served as a minister and teacher throughout North Carolina. She holds an Master of Divinity in Christian education and a Bachelor of Science in elementary education. She is married to Dr. Hunter Duncan, and they have two children, Katherine and Cameron. For six television seasons Bullet played in episodes of the Roy Rogers show called Bullet the Wonder dog. Bullet was fast enough to keep up with the camera shots of Roy Rogers galloping on trigger in pursuit of something. Bullet was an exceptionally smart dog. He did everything a good dog would do. Rin Tin Tin Rin tin Tin is a story of a dog who went from rags to riches. He was an orphan from world War 1 and was found by Mr. Lee Duncan. Mr Lee trained Rinty to do tricks and to do silent picture work for dogs. Rin Tin Tin immediately was a big success. He was responsible greatly for the increasing popularity of the German Shepherd breed as family pets.