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We get asked which size collar would be best for a particular dog breed or types. So here we have compiled a list of dog breeds and their usual neck measurements - and recommended collars. Hindquarters dog collars are available in sizes from XS to Large. XS dog collars fit necks between 18 and 30cm or inches. Small collars fit cm or inches. Medium between cm. And Large dog collars are cm. Airedale: cm inches - we would recommend a comfy Hindquarters large size green or brown fabric cotton dog collar. Brighter colours, like a red dog collar , would work well too. Basset Hound: cm inches - we would recommend a Hindquarters large size brown or khaki soft cotton fabric dog collar. Beagle: cm inches - we would advise a medium sized dog collar in strong but soft and comfy cotton fabric weave, bright colours like red and purple work well. Bichon Frise: cm inches - a small size comfy dog collar would probably be best, perhaps red or blue. Or a small size adjustable harness. Border Collie: cm inches - an adjustable medium size comfy cotton collar would work well, perhaps black or grey. Border Terrier: cm inches - we advise a small size collar made from strong but soft cotton fabric weave, bright purple would work well or khaki for a muted look. Boston Terrier: cm inches - a Hindquarters small size comfy collar would work well, perhaps in red or black. Or a medium size collar would fit too, for a chunkier look. Boxer: cm inches - like lots of other breeds, there can be significant variation according to age and gender and genetics. A strapping Boxer would require a Hindquarters large size dog collar but for a younger slighter Boxer a medium size would work - a comfy khaki collar looks good. Bulldog American: cm inches - a strong but soft Hindquarters large size collar would work. Bulldog English: cm inches - a soft cotton fabric collar would be good, most colours work although red and cobalt blue both look great. Bulldog French: cm inches - either Hindquarters small or medium size collars would work. The medium size cotton dog collar is wider and so probably comfier unless wearing a harness. Bull Terrier: cm inches - a soft but strong Hindquarters medium size cotton collar would be good. Cairn Terrier: cm inches - a small size adjustable washable Hindquarters collar would suit, perhaps in green. Chihuahua: cm inches - a soft XS size dog collar would work. Chinese Crested - cm inches - a soft and comfy XS size dog collar would suit, perhaps in navy or orange. Chow Chow - cm inches - a Hindquarters large dog collar would be good, perhaps the mustard colour. Cocker Spaniel - cm inches - a soft and washable medium sized Hindquarters collar would work well, red always looks good. Collie - cm inches - a large size collar would be best, an adjustable dog collar ensures an exact and comfy fit. Corgi - cm inches - a soft but strong and washable medium sized dog collar works well, khaki and mustard both look good. Dachshund Standard - cm inches - a medium size Hindquarters collar would work best. Dachshund Mini - cm inches - there can be significant variation, most likely a Small or even XS dog collar would work best, soft but strong cotton weave with flex and give is good. Dalmatian - cm inches - an adjustable fabric dog collar in Medium or Large size, red or bright purple would be good. Deerhound - cm inches - a comfy dog collar, cobalt blue looks good. Doberman - cm inches - would require a strong large size collar, maybe black English Setter - cm inches - would require a large size collar. Fox Terrier - cm inches - a small size green fabric dog collar would be good. German Shepherd - cm inches - would require a large size soft but strong fabric dog collar. Golden Retriever - cm inches - a large size dog collar, red is classic. Great Dane - cm inches - a large size dog collar, soft but strong, black or a bright colour like orange works nicely. Greyhound - cm inches - we would recommend a wider soft dog collar, khaki always looks good. Greyhound Italian - cm inches - would require a soft XS collar, blue would suit well. Husky - cm inches - would require a soft but strong large size collar, maybe black or grey. Irish Setter - cm inches - would suit a large size dog collar, bright red would be good or perhaps mustard. Irish Terrier - cm 14 to 18 inches - a medium sized dog collar would work best, green suits well. Jack Russell - cm inches - a small size adjustable fabric dog collar would work well, grey or red are good colours. Labrador - cm inches - a large sized dog collar would probably work best unless you have a small Lab. A black lab suits classic black but also red and orange , brown works well for a yellow lab. Labradoodle - cm inches - either a medium size or a large size would work, orange looks cute - and is comfy. Maltese - cm inches - a small size or XS collar would be best. Old English Sheepdog - cm inches - a large size soft fabric collar would be good, perhaps grey or red. Papillon - cm inches - an XS fabric dog collar would work well, maybe the red. Pekingese - cm inches - small dog collar size. Pointer - cm inches - a strong but soft large dog collar would work, a red dog collar stands out from the crowd. Pomeranian - cm inches - small or XS sizes. Poodle mini - cm inches - a small size adjustable fabric dog collar, red always works well. Poodle Standard - cm inches - a small size fabric adjustable dog collar would be comfy, black or blue would suit most coats. Poodle Toy - 20 to 36cm or 8 to 14 inches - a Small or XS fabric dog collar Pug - cm inches - a small sized Hindquarters adjustable fabric dog collar for an exact and comfy fit, bright purple looks good. Schnauzer Standard - cm inches - a comfy adjustable dog collar in medium size, grey looks good. Schnauzer Mini - cm inches - a small size dog collar would be best, grey looks good and would be comfy. Scottish Terrier - cm inches - Medium sized dog collar. Shar Pei - cm inches - large dog collar size. Springer Spaniel - cm inches - an adjustable and washable Hindquarters dog collar in medium size, perhaps green or red. Staffordshire Bull Terrier - cm inches - depending on individual size, a medium or large adjustable fabric dog collar would work well. Vizsla - cm inches - a strong but soft medium size collar, green is a colour that suits well. Weimaraner - cm inches - a soft but strong large size Hindquarters cotton fabric dog collar would work well, both red or bright purple look particularly good and be comfy. West Highland Terrier - cm inches - a small adjustable fabric dog collar, perhaps in green. Yorkshire Terrier - cm inches - either a XS Hindquarters comfy dog collar or perhaps a small size. Please note there is often a wide variation in neck size within different breeds and types of dog, according to genetics, age and gender. So please take our dog breed neck size guide as a rough one. We recommend you measure your dog's neck before ordering a Hindquarters dog collar. How do you measure your dog's neck? It is best to measure the circumference of your dog's lower neck - allowing space for a couple of fingers - to ensure a comfy fit. Or measure your dog's existing collar when flat, between the two points where it fastens. If you have any questions, please get in touch. If you can dedicate the time to walk, exercise, and train a Standard Poodle on a daily basis they can be the perfect companion, so take some time to choose the perfect collar to compliment your standard, miniature, or toy poodle. Since leather is a natural product, it will not irritate their sensitive skin and the rounded edges of the leather will help prevent matting around the neck. Measure your Poodle's neck to determine the right size to purchase. A properly fitting collar should allow one to two fingers between the collar and the fur. Our leather collars are smooth on the inside, which means they will not break or pull the hairs around the neck. Interwoven in their ancestry are also several rough-coated water dogs such as the Barbet, which is perhaps the earliest incarnation of the Poodle being a curly-coated dog distributed in France, Russia, and Hungary. However, it is the German version that exerted most influence on the modern Poodle. If your poodle loves the water, our classic leather dog collars are completely waterproof for up to 1 hour completely submerged in water. Originally a large gun-dog, these dogs were used to pull milk carts, which explains their strong and large appearance. From both their herding and water roots, the Poodle became a talented water-hunting companion. He was also drawn into service as a military dog, guide dog, guard dog, wagon puller and as circus performers. Poodle's Physical Description The Standard Poodle who is a square-proportioned, well balanced and elegant looking breed, stands at a minimum 15 inches tall and can weigh between 45 to 75 pounds. His single profuse and curly coat which does not moult or shed comes in colours such as white, cream, apricot, brown, black, blue and silver, which if left untouched will grow to extraordinary lengths. His body moves with a light, springy, effortless stride, and he has a well-proportioned and dignified face and skull, and a tail that is often docked to half its normal length. He can be taught all manner of skills, from water-retrieving to circus tricks. He is responsive, easy to train, and a reliable companion, guard and retriever. He gets along with everyone, even children, but can be somewhat reserved with strangers. How to Upkeep your Poodle Because the poodle can be reserved with strangers, they need constant interaction with people. To maintain their amazing skills in water-retrieving or any challenging obedience session, mental and physical exercise should be part of their daily routine. Since his fur does not shed, he is the ideal dog for people who have allergies. Because of their low tolerance for the cold, no Poodle should live outdoors. Common Poodle Health Issues Like all pure breed dogs, the Standard Poodle is also susceptible to certain genetic issues including: Sebaceous Adenitis: This is an inflammation of the sebaceous glands, which causes scaly debris, hair loss, and infection on the skin. Gastric Torsion: Since the Poodle is a deep chested large dog, he is susceptible to bloat, which is basically the twisting of the stomach that traps the stomach contents and gases; it can lead to death if left untreated. If you need any assistance with finding the perfect collar for your poodle, our support team is standing by to help! Recent Articles. When it comes to puppies, particularly short-haired breeds, you should look for a soft collar made of a non-abrasive material. Fabric collars are a good option, and collars made from a breathable fabric that is also machine washable are even better. When should a puppy wear a collar? Even if your puppy is still too young to go outside for walks, getting them used to wearing a collar is a good idea and will prevent any tiny tantrums further down the road! Collars should be worn most of the time, even around the house, but taking it off every so often to let the skin breathe is recommended. Try leaving the collar off for a couple of hours every time you brush or bathe them. Can an 8-week-old puppy wear a collar? Responsible breeders recommend puppies should not be brought home until 8 weeks old, and you can start getting them used to their collar shortly after this. It may be a good idea to let them settle into their new environment before introducing something new, but getting them used to their collar in their second week at home is a good idea. Should puppies wear collars at night? Most dog collars are designed to be non-abrasive, and perfectly safe for pups and older dogs to sleep in. This can also help puppies get adjusted to wearing a collar for the majority of the time. However, many vets also recommend including a contact telephone number, in the event your dog goes missing. Although microchipping has been mandatory for pet dogs since , tags are still a legal requirement and provide a quicker way to get in contact with you if your dog is found, without their microchip needing to be scanned first. We hope our puppy collar size guide has been helpful, as well as our dog collar FAQs! If you enjoyed our puppy collar size guide, you might like our other article, What do I need for a New Puppy? Not only do they provide crucial identification information if your dog runs away, but, when properly fit, collars also help keep your dog secure on its leash during walks. Therefore, it is important that you invest in a collar that fits your pup properly. You want to make sure the collar is not too loose, where the dog can wriggle their way out, and not too tight, where your dog has the potential to get injured. Sizing a Dog Collar Sizing a dog collar for your pup is simple and can be done within minutes. Take measurements at various places of their neck, as the collar may shift slightly over the duration of the dog wearing it. Collars tend to lie at the bottom of the neck, so measuring that area will give you the most accurate measurement of the ideal collar size. Remember, it is best to get a collar that is a little too large for your dog, as it can always be adjusted to be smaller. It is impossible to adjust a collar to be longer. The collar is fitting correctly if it feels snug. If you have to force your fingers underneath the collar, the collar is too tight. Dog Collar Sizing by Breed It is important to note that all dogs are different. This is because, even if two dogs are the same breed, they can differ in their neck measurements due to their weight, lifestyle, and other factors. However, the breed of your dog does influence the best type of collar for them. Dogs with relatively short necks, such as pugs or bulldogs, can benefit from thinner collars. Overly thick collars can be uncomfortable for these types of dogs and can cause chaffing. Dog Collar Sizing Chart by Weight Weight will give you a basic idea of where to start when looking for the correct collar sizing for your dog. True measurements can vary based on neck size and weight distribution. Mimi Green offers a wide range of patterns, colors and designs for our dog collars and leashes. This entry was posted in Blog. Bookmark the permalink. Mimi Green.

Officially, there is only a single type of Boxer dog recognized by major kennel clubs. However, fanciers and breeders have set the distinctions between Boxer dogs bred in different countries. The differences between the types of Boxer dogs in each region are heavily dependent on preferences. Breeders from each location have been cultivating specific characteristics or traits that they want the breed to exhibit. International kennel organizations also contributed to their variation as they prioritize the characteristics of a certain region over the other. Among the three types of Boxers, this is the second variant that has been merited as a standard in by The Kennel Club KC , one of the oldest canine organizations in the world. This substantiates why the UK standard leans more to the characteristic of this Boxer type. One of the defining characteristics of UK Boxers is their small feet, high knuckles, and slender legs which give them a more elegant look. It is considered to be the smallest and slimmest among the three. Nonetheless, the masculine physique which is the core trait of Boxers is still evident. Its slender body also provides more room for agility and precision in moving. It is also expected for UK Boxers to be biddable, calm, fearless, and self-assured. Oddly enough, the standard for this type of Boxer was only established after the two other Boxer types were standardized. Among the three, the German Boxer remains to be the more robust and largest type in terms of muscle mass and bone structure. Their physique has a more defined masculine figure with longer and stronger legs. These traditional Boxer features are probably retained through time since most German Boxers are still bred for their natural talents in herding and hunting. Another key characteristic of German Boxers is that they have a shorter snout compared to American Boxers but wider than the UK Boxers. According to most Boxer breeders, German Boxers are calmer and easier to train compared to the other types of Boxers. The traits and characteristics of the American Boxer were officially acknowledged in by the American Kennel Club. The most defining trait of this Boxer type lies in its coat. An American Boxer has a smooth, tight, and shiny coat that has no wrinkles. With this unique trait, it would be easy to distinguish an American Boxer among other variants. Boxer fanciers claim that American Boxers have a more elegant and balanced look. The reason could be because most American Boxers are bred to be show dogs or champions of conformation events. When it comes to temperament and behavior, the American Boxers are said to be playful yet constrained, patient, and stoic towards family members — especially with children. Also, they are said to be the most energetic Boxer among all types. If you have been searching about Boxers, you might have also heard about black Boxers although there are none in reality. Let me explain to you in this section the different coat colors and markings that Boxer dogs have. Fawn Boxer Dog Fawn coat color can exhibit a range of hues, including shades of yellow, tan, red, and mahogany. It is one of the two standard coat colors recognized by kennel clubs and possibly the most iconic. Too much white on the coat is considered a fault. The common markings for fawn Boxers are white flash and a black mask. The black mask refers to a black muzzle that can also be seen on German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois. Brindle Boxer Dog Brindle is not a color but a pattern. This is characterized by the presence of streaks of irregular and darker color against the light color background of the coat. For Boxers, the background is usually a color ranging from fawn to deep red. The appearance of the brindle coat will vary depending on the thickness and thinness of the color strips. Some may look like almost solid fawns while some may have more defined patterns in their body. Depending on the shade of the brindle, a Boxer dog may be called a light brindle, golden brindle, fawn brindle, red brindle, or mahogany brindle. The concentration of brindle patterns in Boxers can also be classified into three: tiger brindle, reverse brindle, and seal brindle. The streaks of irregular darker hair patterns are spread across a light background. On the other hand, reverse brindle dogs have strips of irregular lighter color against a darker color background. They differ from a seal brindle Boxer who sports a heavy concentration of dark streaks on their coat. However, for the record, there is no such thing as black Boxer dogs in reality. Purebred Boxer dogs do not carry the black color gene so it is impossible for them to have a black base. Boxers can only either be fawn to mahogany , brindle, or white. The black Boxer dogs that are advertised are brindle in nature. Remember the seal brindle that I mentioned earlier? When the streaks of the darker color patterns are too tight that they seal or shut the light background off, the coat appears to be solid black. In other words, the black coloration is nothing but an illusion. Worst, due to the hoaxes about white Boxers, they were even culled back then. Contrary to popular belief, white Boxers are not albino. Albinism occurs when a dog lacks pigmentation on its body. However, that is not the case for white Boxers. Similar to seal, the white coat for Boxers is produced due to an unusual patterning in the body. In short, they just have large white patches. White Boxers are either fawn or brindle with a large area covered with white markings. Boxers with this coat color typically do not have other markings in their body including a black mask. Those with patches of other colors in their body patches on the eyes, black mask, ears, back are called Check Boxers and are considered to be particolored. Boxers that have more than a third of white color in their coat or are all white are disqualified on conformation shows. The good news is that the AKC now recognizes the white coat color but is still considered to be non-standard. White Boxers are allowed to have limited AKC registration but are prohibited from being used on breeding. Knowing the type of Boxer you have would be easy if you bought from a reputable breeder. However, if circumstances do not allow the aforementioned ways, you can also try observing the unique characteristics of each type of Boxer. As discussed earlier, English or UK Boxers have long, slender legs which give them an elegant look. One of their defining characteristics is their high knuckles and small feet. If your dog sports this appearance, it is probably a UK Boxer. If your dog is large compared to other Boxers you see, there is a high tendency that it is a German Boxer. This type of Boxer is the biggest among the three. It has a dense bone and a larger and more masculine frame compared to the UK and American Boxer. Spotting if your Boxer is an American type would be easy. The defining trait of an American Boxer is its slick, smooth, shiny, tight coat. In terms of temperament, it would be hard to distinguish the three types of Boxers as they exhibit similar behaviors: confidence, patient, calm, and watchful. However, the German Boxer is said to be the calmest Boxer among the three. The American Boxer on the other hand is the most energetic type. If your Boxer sports extraordinary demeanor and composure unlike other Boxers, there is a great possibility that it is a German Boxer. Subsequently, if it acts like a bomb of energy, it is probably an American Boxer. Although all of the types of Boxers can join dog shows, some are more favored by specific kennel clubs. Conformation shows usually set guidelines following the standards provided by these organizations. Thus, Boxers that perfectly adhere to the standards are more favored than the others. If you want to join Boxer shows, the first thing you need to do is to identify the type of Boxer you own as well as the kennel club that sponsors the event. The prices of the three different types of Boxers have no significant differences. Boxer dogs with champion blood are more expensive than ordinary purebred Boxers. When it comes to coat color, the most expensive Boxer puppy would be the one with a seal brindle. As discussed earlier, a Boxer with this coat creates an illusion of a solid black color. Due to their rarity, Boxer dogs with seal brindle color are highly valued and priced. Places to Find Different Types of Boxer Dogs for Sale and Adoption In buying a Boxer dog, you should only transact with reputable breeders and avoid buying from backyard breeders and puppy mills. A professional Boxer breeder only aims to enhance and further the characteristics of the breed. Here are the places where you can find reputable and professional Boxer breeders. This online marketplace is regulated by the AKC itself so you have the assurance that all of the Boxer puppies sold are bred ethically and professionally. Most of the advertised Boxers in this marketplace came from the bloodlines of American Boxers. They have a acre facility dedicated to breeding German and UK Boxer dogs. This breeder is interested in breeding German Boxers that is why all of the dogs in their facility have German pedigrees. Unfortunately, a great number of Boxer dogs also end up in rescue centers. If you are eyeing to adopt one, here are the places where you can apply: American Boxer Club Rescue Directory — The parent organization of Boxer clubs in America has a complete list of the numerous Boxer rescue organizations across the country. There are dedicated shelters for each state and region of the US. Adopt-a-Pet — This is an online pet database that is dedicated to rehoming Boxer dogs. There are hundreds of Boxers posted on their sites every day that are available for adoption. It is affiliated with over 12, pet shelters across the US and Canada. All types of Boxer dogs English, German, and American are pretty common. In fact, kennel clubs do not consider these types as exactly legit. The terms American, UK, and German Boxer dogs are mostly used by breeders residing in a certain location. The boat only tips in terms of coat color. Contrary to popular belief that white is the rarest color for Boxers, seal brindle Boxers are the real gems. The tight patterns of a dark streak of hairs give an illusion of solid black coat color. Due to their rarity, they are also considered to be more expensive compared to other colors. What Is a European Boxer Dog? A European Boxer dog is another term used to refer to German Boxers. They are more masculine and have larger body frames. To be fair, all Boxer dogs are equally good. However, there are unique traits evident to each type of Boxer dog. The physique of a German Boxer dog is more robust than the other types, giving it an impression of a more reliable guardian. On the other hand, the unique features of American Boxer shiny tight coat and UK Boxer high knuckles and slender feet give them a more elegant look. If you are after a sport or a working dog, German Boxers would be preferable. On the other hand, if you would like to join conformation events, the American or UK Boxer will be your go-to. In addition, you should also consider your region as judges favor a certain type of Boxer depending on their origin. For the behavior and temperament, all three are lively yet calm, easily trained, and self-composed. However, breeders and owners testify that American Boxers are more energetic compared to the other types of Boxers. Your preference and lifestyle will be your criteria in choosing which Boxer matches you. Aside from their slight differences in size and appearance, they are all Boxer dogs that exhibit elegance and vigor. Their temperament and behavior will heavily depend on the environment they are raised in and the training they received. In terms of Boxer types according to coat colors, you should carefully weigh your options and refer to what the standard says. If you aspire to enter show events, you should not choose a Boxer puppy that is white or has white patches that cover more than a third of its body as such traits are considered faults. You should take note that a Boxer is not a dog for beginners. It is a breed that requires proper training and attention. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. There are some Boxers that appear to be black. However, a solid black coat is not indicative of the breed. So, how can this be? Read more about what markings and patterns can cause a black-like coat. Fawn- What exactly is the color fawn in regard to dogs? This sample is a typical fawn. However, as you will see, fawn is a range of hues. To the right below on mobile is a medium fawn is the standard hue when referring to this terminology. With nice white flash markings on the chest and with black on the muzzle, this Boxer meets color breed standard very well. Brindle - What is brindle? Brindle is not technically a color, it is a pattern. The base is fawn and there is striping. The stripes may be light or dark, and density of the striping can range from thin to thick. Some brindles will look almost fawn and some will appear so dark that they look black. This Boxer shows the standard brindle striping. With white on his chest, paws and ankles and black on the muzzle, this Boxer also meets breed standards perfectly. This is a red fawn Boxer. As you can see, this fawn is darker and deeper than that the common tan fawn; producing a slight shading of red. What a gorgeous coat. This Boxer is a dark brindle. As you can see, with dark brindle the black is over powering the fawn color. The black striping in this pattern is heavy; which would be called a reverse or even a seal. Which simply means that the dog is not officially a solid fawn; he is a mix of colors. Seal - The Boxer dog you see here on the left is Vesta; this color is often referred to as seal. This is a super tight brindle. Siennna, right, is a fawn. Photo courtesy of Nancy Dark Brindle Boxer. Turkish, at 7 years old, photo courtesy of Renata Boxer Dog Flash The white markings on this breed are called "flash". If a Boxer has a moderate amount, one often refers to this as semi-flashy. Those with prominent white on a good portion of the coat are called flashy. No Markings? Not all Boxers have white markings. These are known as plain Boxers, but the term is misleading, as it refers to the genes at work. Read more: Boxers without White Markings Brindle Explanation Brindle one of the colors of this breed is actually a pattern. Stripes running through the coat partial or full is brindling. These are often black hairs, but may be any color that is a darker shade than the hairs that run under it. Depending on the exact color of these brindling pattern stripes, one may refer to a Boxer using one of the following terms listed in order from a very light brindle to a heavy dark striping : Light super light. Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article.

For the complete list please see our Listings of Breeders page. In the case of boxers from a reputable breeder, you will usually pay more than what an owner is charging since these breeders usually have to pay higher licensing and insurance fees as well as build kennels and other facilities that would be suitable for breeding dogs. In addition, reputable breeders will allow you to take the boxer home with a signed contract that prevents them from breeding their dog or selling it to other people. However, there are usually people who breed boxers as a side hobby and will be quite willing to make a deal with you. Although it is not recommended that you buy from these people, they usually give the dog away for free or for a very low price because they are trying to get rid of their dogs. In addition, buying from someone who breeds boxers as a side hobby may be cheaper. How to Find A Responsible Boxer Breeder in Missouri To find a responsible boxers breeder in Missouri, the best thing to do is consult your veterinarian. Since there are many reputable breeders in this state, asking people who live nearby would be advisable as well. If you cannot ask anyone locally for help, then using the Internet will also allow you to look up lists of accredited dog breeders which may give you some leads on finding reputable breeders. Another important factor to consider if you want to buy a boxer puppy in Missouri is where the dog will live. Although Missouri does not have any requirements for the living conditions of dogs, it is always best to find out how big the kennel or barn will be and what the weather conditions are like in order to make sure that your boxer puppy can adapt to its new environment. Visit Your Missouri Boxer Breeder in Person In order to find boxers for sale in Missouri from a reputable breeder, it is important that you visit their kennel or farm. Although there are many breeders who advertise through the Internet and will ship a boxer puppy to your home, it is always best to buy a dog from a local breeder since they can ensure you good customer service. Visiting your Boxer breeder in person will also give you a chance to see the kind of environment your boxer is living in. This will allow you to determine if their breeding practices help promote good health and temperament as well as how they treat the dogs. It also allows you to connect with the breeder and makes it easier for you both to establish a strong relationship. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your Boxer Breeder in Missouri When you are searching for a Missouri boxer breeder, making sure that the boxing breeders in your area are trustworthy is just one of the most important factors to consider. You must know that not all reputable boxer breeders would be aware of how to raise their puppies correctly. References will be of great help in making sure that you will only be dealing with the most reliable boxer breeders in Missouri. For these reasons, asking for references is one of the best ways to ensure that they are professional Missouri boxer breeders. Ask Your Missouri Boxer Breeder if You Can Meet Past Customers Asking your Missouri boxer breeder to introduce you to their past clients is one of the most effective ways in order to determine if they are professional or not. If possible, you can also ask for referrals at this time. If these references and referrals are promising, then it basically means that they are reliable boxing breeders in Missouri. However, always keep in mind that not all reputable boxing breeders would provide these things right away especially when it comes to the safety of their puppies. Take note that responsible and trustworthy boxers breeders would look out for the welfare of their pets before anything else. This is why you must always make it a point to trust the boxer breeder in Missouri only when they are willing to hand over these things. Does the boxer breeder in Missouri that you are considering working with have a good relationship with their veterinarian? This basically means that they are responsible when it comes to taking care of their pets and not just looking at them as a source of income. You just need to remember that not all reputable boxer dog breeders would be easy to work with. In fact, you should already know this when looking for boxers in Missouri since not everyone has the same standards and expectations. This is one of the most common signs which point out that you might be dealing with an unethical Missouri boxer breeder at this time. They ask for payment during the process of the transaction. Before getting to work with Missouri boxer breeders, they must first know what kind of payment they are looking forward to accepting. If they immediately ask for payment even before doing anything, then this is one discouraging sign that points out that you might be dealing with an unethical boxer breeder at this present time. To them, money comes first and not the welfare of their pets. What good does a verbal agreement do? There are a lot of people who would prefer written contracts since these things hold both sides accountable. This is the kind of question which you should ask your breeder even before anything else. If they keep on telling you that nothing is wrong with them, this is yet another discouraging sign which points out that there might be something wrong with their facilities right now. So make sure to ask this question before agreeing to any contract. Remember that this is not just another pet since they are known to be quite destructive. So if you want them to do this somewhere else, make sure that you give them something which they could use for this purpose like chew toys and bones. But at the same time, it will also depend upon their age. If they are still young, then it might take some time before they would chew on things other than their own toys and bones. Just keep in mind that these pets would eventually grow up one day, and they will start exploring your house. This is the only way for them to learn what kinds of things are appropriate or not. You must never forget about this since this would have a long-term effect on their behavior later on in life. Just be patient when it comes to training them so everything would go according to plan. If these pets go to the bathroom inside your house, then this can lead to a lot of serious problems for both you and them. Remember that training your pet is essential because it helps strengthen your relationship with each other over time. They need enclosure crate training:Crate training works hand-in-hand with potty training which is why you should not forget about this one thing above all else. They would give you some good advice which will help improve the overall relationship that you have with your pet. Just have patience with them since they will eventually learn what you want them to do regardless of how long it may take. Enjoy your brand new Boxer puppy. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Raising quality puppies since ! We strive to raise the highest quality puppies and to provide them and their parents with the best care possible. Our puppies are raised with lots of TLC from us, our children, and our grandchildren so you can be sure they have been pre-spoiled and very socialized before leaving us. We believe a puppy should be a member of your family and should live inside your home with you. Puppies should be given every opportunity to have a healthy and happy life. We try to make sure our puppies are placed in loving homes where they will receive the best life has to offer them! If you are looking to add a puppy to your family, please browse our site and check out our available puppies. You may contact us by phone or email to discuss the adoption process. We have always passed our inspections and have never had any non compliant issues. We are always praised by our inspectors for having a top quality kennel. Our licensed veterinarian comes to our home to see all of our dogs on a regular basis so he can inspect them and provide them with a thorough, hands on well check up in addition to all regular veterinarian care. As members of these organizations, we receive the most up to date news, education, and veterinarian tips that help us take the best possible care of our dogs. We take great pride in our kennel and our dogs. If you are looking to add a new puppy to your family, please contact us for a complete list of available puppies. We would love to help you find your new family member! We offer a one year health guarantee with every puppy we sell and a lifetime of breeder support. Please review our health guarantee and contact us if you have any questions. Being a member of AKC's Bred with Heart program means we provide our dogs with important genetic health testing that can rule out health problems with our puppies. We are also licensed and inspected by the state and USDA. Our Boxers are bred for intelligence, conformation, health, and socialability. There many champions in the ancestry of our Boxers. Trojan is OFA certified for his hips, elbows, heart and, thyroid. Our males are OFA certified against hip displacia. Romeo and Romeo's sire are OFA certified. Zaccur is OFA certified. Harley was OFA certified, which is a sires of many of our females. Romeo's Grand sire was a champion. The older female are OFA certified for their heart and thyroid. The puppies come with a 1 year health guarantee for genetic defects. All are included in the price of your puppy. Puppies are ready to go to their new homes at 8 weeks of age. All puppies will have their tails cropped and dew claws removed. They will be current on shots and dewormings. If a deposit is being send in the mail, the puppy is marked as pending sale. When the deposit arrives the puppy is marked an sold. If the payment does not arrive in a week, the puppy will be placed back for sale. Paypal is available for payment. More pictures of the puppies are available on request.

Characteristics Life Span As pointed out in the intro paragraph Shepradors generally live between 10 and 12 years, and sometimes they can reach the age of .However, they tend to be cautious with strangers, thanks to their German Shepherd ancestors. Caring Grooming: their shorthaired coat needs regular brushing: every day in the shedding season spring and autumn and three-to-five times a week in the rest of the year. Activity level With two highly energetic parent breeds, these dogs need an active life, so be ready to spend several hours a day keeping your pet busy. A Labrador Shepherd is generally 20 to 26 inches tall cm. Besides being active, you should have a large house, with a yard to provide her with enough space to move around. The Labrador Shepherd likes cold climates rather than hot weather, so be sure to have the ability to keep her comfortable all year. Further Reading Top 10 Dog Sports 2. They have it in their blood, and can successfully do police work, including searching, tracking, rescue, or guard work. If you care about your flowers and plants, you should also consider building an enclosure to keep your dog away from them. When you bring her inside, provide her with toys and games to keep her busy. She will enjoy any activity that stimulates her mind, such as dog puzzles or training sessions. The vacuum cleaner will be your new best friend German Shepherd Lab Mix is a double-coated breed, which means they have an undercoat next to the skin with longer hair over the top. Dogs from this crossbreed shed a lot, especially when the seasons change. If you want to keep her hair shiny and healthy, you should take time to brush her for at least minutes, three-to-five times a week. A consistent brushing schedule will help you reduce the amount of hair around the house. Besides brushing, you should include in your schedule: cleaning her ears once a week , brushing her teeth at least three times a week , and cleaning her eyes when needed. While this sounds like a lot, on the other hand, she only needs to take a bath about once a month. Exercising her on a concrete surface could help you keep her nails in good shape and reduce the number of visits to the vet. Always buy non-toxic toys, and substitute them with new ones as soon as they start deteriorating to avoid accidents. Your dog will need some strong toys, adapted to her age. Most hybrids tend to have a balanced personality, but as your puppy could be the result of more crosses , she may not inherit the exact characteristics you want in a dog; your future dog is prone to a series of health issues, caused by her bloodline. Obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases and diabetes are a lot more common with these dogs, but she could also develop epilepsy, skin allergies, bloat or cardiovascular diseases, these being common among Labradors and German Shepherds. From my point of view, most estimations work well for average dogs. You should buy your dog from a responsible breeder In most cases, a Labrador Shepherd has high potential and is a great candidate for the title of the perfect family dog. However, as mentioned before, hybrid dogs could have unpredictable coat colors, personalities, and health issues, so buying your puppy from a reliable source is as close as you can get to a clear image about your future dog. Generally, this hybrid can be 26 inches 66 cm tall and can weigh up to 88 pounds 40 kg. Taking into account the height and weight of its German Shepherd and Labrador mix parents, this crossbreed is a medium to a large-sized dog. So measurements can still vary more or less from that range. Good news for you! It will shower you with love and loyalty, and make you proud with its intelligence and playfulness. Do you think you can deal with this? Shepradors has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, but some of them can reach this age. We all want our pets to live longer and spend more years with us, so read this section to avoid and better prepare against genetic illnesses. Conclusion As you could see above, when buying a Sheprador you get the best of two great breeds. I think that this mix of German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever makes for the perfect family dog — kind, loyal, patient with children, and protective. However, they have endless energy and require a lot of time and attention, which makes them suitable for active families only. So are you ready to handle such a dog? Leave us a comment below and tell us about your personal experience with this unique crossbreed. 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. But I adopted my little Hank recently and he seems both very playful and very cuddly. He likes to snuggle a lot but is very active too. Just wondering if I should expect him to go crazy one of these days? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. It is, therefore, no surprise that some breeders are starting to mix the two. Considering whether a German Shepherd Lab Mix is right for you? Read on for everything you need to know about this amazing mixed-breed dog. Lab German Shepherd Mix Overview Size — 22 to 25 inches tall and 50 to 80 pounds Coat — Medium length, double coat, color varies Shedding — Yes Temperament — Intelligent, active, and loyal, but can be wary of strangers Trainable — Highly, but prone to destructive behavior when bored Activity — Highly active needs two hours of activity per day Best For — Families and people with active lifestyles and lots of time to spend with them What is a German Shepherd Lab Mix? As these dogs are roughly the same size, the mother can be of either breed as long as she is larger than the father, to ensure against any difficulty in the birthing process. Sheprador Appearance As is the case for most mix-breed dogs, it is a bit of a gamble what you will get when these two come together. They might have the pointed ears of a German Shepherd or the floppy ears of a Labrador. There is nothing to do but wait and see. But luckily, both German Shepherds and Labradors are attractive dogs, so however they turn out they should be handsome. That said, we can make a few generalizations about the appearance of Shepradors. Size As both German Shepherds and Labradors are medium- to large-sized dogs, you can expect their mixed offspring to be the same. German Shepherds are the larger of the two and are usually between 50 and 90 pounds and 22 to 26 inches tall. Labradors are only a little bit smaller, at 50 to 80 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. So expect your German Shepherd Lab Mix to stand between 22 and 25 inches tall and weigh 50 to 80 pounds. You can narrow this range down a bit by looking at the size of the parents. Color The color of these gorgeous mixed-breed dogs is also highly variable, and you might end up with a pooch of a solid coat color, like Labs, or striking mixed coloring, like German Shepherds. A lot of this depends on the color of the Labrador parent, whether they are yellow, black, or chocolate. As a general rule, the darker the lab parent, the darker the coat of the pup. But you also get white German Shepherd Dogs, which can result in striking white Shepradors. Coat When it comes to coat length, you should expect in most cases that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will have a shorter coat, like that of a Labrador. This seems to be a dominant gene, and the vast majority of German Shepherd Lab Mixes end up with this type of coat. The dog will certainly have a double coat, as this is a feature of both breeds. The undercoat will be soft and fluffy, and the guard coat rough. This does mean that they shed—a lot. This is not the type of dog to have at home if anyone in the household suffers from allergies. Shepherd Lab Mix Puppy Lab German Shepherd Mix Character While temperament is again unpredictable with mix-breeds, both German Shepherds and Labradors are intelligent, active, and loyal dogs, so you can expect their offspring to share these traits. German Shepherds are very intelligent and have a natural protective instinct. They have a tendency to guard whatever they consider to be theirs. Labradors were originally bred as gun dogs, to retrieve the wild game of hunters. As such, they are very obedient and tend to be pleasers, and they like nothing more than spending time with their humans. As both breeds are intelligent and highly trainable, you can expect these characteristics to appear in a Sheprador. However, whether they will be a guard dog that can be aggressive with strangers, or a pleaser that is great with children, you will have to wait and see. While dogs are a mix of nature and nurture, if you want to take a Lab German Shepherd mix into a family home, or if you are a first-time dog owner, you will want to be careful about which individual dog you choose. Activity Levels However their personality turns out, you are going to have a dog with a lot of energy. These larger dogs that are used to working need around two hours of exercise each day. Their intelligence also means they get bored easily, and when they do get bored, they can have a tendency toward destructive behavior, which means digging and chewing. They do best with active owners with whom they can go walking, hiking, and running. Whether these dogs will like swimming is a coin toss. While Labradors love the water, German Shepherds are a bit more wary. But their size and adventurous nature mean they can be trained to love the water. So you have a good chance that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will be a swimmer. These dogs are loyal and love being around their humans. You will find them at their happiest and healthiest when you make them part of the family and shower them with love. Exercise Ideally, your Sheprador will need around two hours of exercise per day. This might be more than just a long walk, as their high energy levels mean they will like to run as well. They will enjoy tackling tough trails with you at their side, and the retriever nature of Labradors also means this breed is likely to enjoy a good game of fetch. Bear in mind that these dogs will need this level of exercise rain or shine, or they will become frustrated and start engaging in destructive behavior. This is not only bad for them in general, but can put excess pressure on their hips, which are also prone to issues. Intellectual Stimulation German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs are invariably highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train but also means they get bored very easily. When they do get bored, they are smart enough to find trouble, and you may come home to quite the scene. These dogs need to spend time with people to occupy their minds, and they also benefit from intellectually stimulating games. But expect them to make short work of these challenges, as they are chewers. You will be getting them new games quite often. Companionship Labradors need a lot of companionship, and this is a trait their offspring with German Shepherds are likely to share. Not only will they get bored and start acting up, but they can become depressed. Grooming Both German Shepherds and Labradors are shedders, so you can be sure their Sheprador offspring will be as well. This is just a fact of life with Shepradors. They will need to be brushed at least twice a week, and as often as once a day during the shedding seasons fall and spring. As well as brushing, invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner that has special functionality to help you pick up dog hair. These dogs are also likely to enjoy jumping up on the couch for a snuggle and a snooze. Invest in coverings and be sure your swanky vacuum cleaner has an attachment for upholstery. Their coat is not the only part of their grooming to attend to. You need to clean their teeth three times a week, with a brush or with dental treats. Finally, trim their nails every three months. This is both for their health and the health of your home, as their nails can damage your floors. For a big dog like this, it can be a good idea to take them to the vet to get their nails clipped. But if you feel confident to do this at home, check out our list of the best nail clippers. Diet German Shepherd Lab Mixes are big dogs that have lots of energy, but they also have a tendency toward obesity, which means they have to get their energy from good sources. This means high-quality protein and fats over carbohydrates. Preferably this means meals made from quality meats rather than meals or byproducts. When looking at the ingredient list, look for named meats at the first ingredient. Lab German Shepherd Mixes also benefit from novel proteins in their diet, as they can be prone to allergies. Dogs tend to develop allergies to the meats they eat the most, which often means beef and chicken. When they are puppies, Shepradors should be fed three times a day, and this should be cut down to two times a day from about four months of age. As a rule, dogs need 25 to 30 calories per pound of their weight per day, though you should watch their individual weight and energy level to see if you need to adjust their meals up or down. You can also check the label on your dog food to get a rough estimate of how much you should be feeding your Sheprador. Of course the amount will also vary depending on how often you exercise your dog. Known Health Problems While there is no limit to the number of health problems that a dog of any breed can develop, or they might not develop any at all, some dog breeds are more prone to some conditions than others. German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs have the potential to develop the health problems that are common in goth German Shepherds and Labradors. These include: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia — This is a condition where the hip and elbow joints do not develop normally and that can cause extreme pain and arthritis in later life. For more information check out our list of Glucosamine for Dogs. Progressive Retinal Atrophy — This is a group of degenerative diseases that affect the eyes and can lead to blindness. Shepradors are also prone to eat whatever is put in front of them, so you need to be conscious of what you are feeding them. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus — Poor diet can lead the stomach to dilate and expand, in turn leading to a twisting of the stomach that is life-threatening. It can block the flow of blood to the abdomen, leading to rupture of the stomach walls, and put pressure on the diaphragm thereby inhibiting the lungs. Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy — This is a condition that affects the spinal cord and leads to progressive weakness of the hind limbs, and eventually paralysis. Panosteitis — This is an inflammation of the outer surface of the long bones in the legs, resulting in a shifting lameness and making bones more susceptible to breaks. Allergies — Dogs can be born with allergies or develop them over time. Dogs often develop allergies if they eat the same foods consistently. Underactive Thyroid — The thyroid manages hormones, and an underactive thyroid is unable to secrete the required hormones. This can result in weight gain, lethargy, and cold intolerance. At this time, their energy levels will drop and they will need some changes in their diet and exercise. GSD Lab Mix Puppy But no matter how well trained they are, if they are left to get bored for too long, they can engage in some pretty destructive behavior, such as digging and chewing everything in sight. You have been forewarned. The highly assertive nature of German Shepherds means they do not respond well to domination training. They are likely to revolt when subjected to punishment. The best way to train a Labrador German Shepherd Mix is through positive reinforcement. Labradors are pleasers that love to make their humans happy. This means their offspring are also likely to feel the same way. So they will respond rapidly to training based on rewards for positive behavior. Deal with this behavior early, with specific training for dealing with children and strangers. They are very active and need lots of attention, so they need to be in households that support this. But they do great with adults and kids, so they can be a great family pet. Remember that German Shepherd Labrador Mixes need around two hours of exercise every day, so they need someone who can commit to that level of activity. But at the same time, it means they are the type of dog you can take on all of your adventures if you like hiking and trailing. They also need attention and stimulation throughout the day. If anyone in the house suffers with pet hair allergies, this is another reason Labrador German Shepherd Mixes are not the right dog for you, as they shed a lot. Consider something like a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle instead. Also, ask for medical records of the parents, to see what health conditions the pup might be prone to in the future. If you decide to adopt a mature dog, spend a bit of time with them to see what their temperament is like. History of the Breeds German Shepherd German Shepherds originated in Germany in the late 19th century as a sheep herding dog. But, because they are very intelligent, trainable, obedient, and strong, they have since moved into many different working roles including police, military, search and rescue, and disability assistance. German Shepherds can have a reputation for being aggressive, but they are more alert and wary than aggressive. They can have a tendency to become overprotective of family and territory. But if socialized and trained properly, this tendency should be highly manageable. German Shepherds are the second-most popular dog in the United States and the seventh-most popular dog in the United Kingdom. Labrador Labradors, also known as Labrador Retrievers, were initially used in Newfoundland as fishing dogs to retrieve fish that had gotten away. Because they are incredibly friendly but also intelligent and therefore easy to train, today Labradors are favored as disability assistance dogs, often helping individuals with blindness, ptsd, mobility issues and autism. Labradors are the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are intelligent and therefore easy to train, and loving and loyal, so they will quickly feel like part of the family. However, they do need a lot of exercise and attention, so adopting a Sheprador into your family is a commitment. German Shepherds have a reputation for being aggressive, but it is not really deserved. They are natural watchdogs and reserved around strangers, but they are not aggressive dogs that are likely to attack. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which means easy to control. Beagles, Poodles, Boxers, Golden Retrievers and Spaniels are all extremely friendly dogs as well, many specifically bred to be companions. They do best with active people or families who are full of people to love them. Like all dogs, they will do their best when they are cared for properly. This means training them appropriately, exercising them, keeping them mentally stimulated, and feeding them well. But these loyal pooches will repay your care and commitment with a lot of love and affection. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. 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 German Sheprador Highlights The German Sheprador is a mixed breed dog. The main colors of German Shepradors are black, white, red, cream, blue, and grey. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. While they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job. Many German Shepradors absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also help to keep them cool during hot summer months. German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. Protective in nature, they will alert when strangers approach. They can easily become board, depressed, and frustrated, which will result in unwanted behaviors. German Sheprador History The German Sheprador dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing German Shepherds and Labradors in North America, possibly in the s. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems that affect many purebreds as well as create an ultimate family companion and watchdog. They continued to create German Shepradors as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the German Sheprador got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the dog for you. Check your local shelters, look up German Sheprador rescues, or check with breed-specific German Shepherd and Labrador rescues, as they sometimes help to re-home mixed breeds. German Sheprador Size As the German Sheprador is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between German Shepherd and Labrador parents, you can expect the German Sheprador to be on the large side. Most weigh in at 60 to 95 pounds and range in height from 20 to 27 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. German Sheprador Personality German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. However, once they befriend you, you have a friend for life. These pups hail from a line of two working parents. Their German Shepherd parents regularly work as military, police, and guard dogs, while their Labrador Retriever parents have jobs as hunting and guide dogs. German Shepradors like to work and need to have a job to do, whether big or small. Give them a sense of purpose, and this dog will earn their keep ten fold. They are highly trainable, and thrive on positive reenforcement. Do not leave them alone for long periods. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. German Shepradors are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one hour long walk per day with several shorter walks mixed in. Hiking and other adventurous activities are also recommended. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as this mixed breed is prone to tartar build-up. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility with its one-inch jumps. Crate and kennel training should start in puppyhood. German Sheprador Feeding An ideal German Sheprador diet should be formulated for a large breed with high energy. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. They usually have medium length, dense coats, and while they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job and bathing is recommended every few months with a mild shampoo. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Their double coats do shed quite a bit. You will definitely want a vacuum on hand. You will need it. Have you tried robot vacuums? See if the Eufy RoboVac is right for you! Their double coat gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather. Many of these dogs absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also helps to keep them cool during hot summer months. Keep in mind they are an indoor dog and need to live indoors. Like all dogs, however, German Shepradors need to be trained how to behave around children and vice versa. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Learn more about this awesome breed by reading about their parent breeds the German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever. German Sheprador Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for German Shepradors because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or Labrador Retriever breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. There is no way to find out if your puppy will develop any of these conditions. All you can do is to take care of your dog properly to prevent some of these severe medical conditions. Your growing dog should maintain a healthy weight because extra weight can be an additional weight on its spine. The ideal dog nutrition will also depend on any nutritional needs of your dog. If you are training your dog, never give treats as a reward. This encourages obesity and will only cause more problems for your dog. Here are top dog food brands that your German Shepherd Lab will surely love. Its core ingredients include ground brown rice, lamb meal, white rice, and chicken. It is all natural and contains no preservatives. Even a picky puppy will surely love this dog food. Precise Holistic Complete Large Breed Adult Formula Precise Holistic contains chicken, brown rice, chicken fat, and oatmeal and is considered the best organic dog food for large dogs. This comes with extra calcium and phosphorus needed by dogs to achieve its full, large size. This is a portion of irresistible dog food for large breed dogs such as your Lab German Shepherd mix. Just like any other dog, never give your German Shepherd Lab the following human food. Not all human food is safe for dogs. Alcohol Chicken bones or cooked chicken bones Grapes or raisins Salty foods and junk food Chocolate, coffee, or tea Onions, chives, and garlic If you want your dog to grow strong and healthy, you need to give them the best care in the world. So, start with their nutrition! That means you need to stay away from the worst dry dog food, and try out the best dry dog food instead. Your hairy friend comes from different parents and therefore you can experiment with the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. Our puppy friends need nutrition that is full of proteins and easy to digest. You can look for some ideas in the best puppy food brands. Senior dogs, in their grandpa style, need food which contains moderate protein levels as in the best senior dry dog food. Because of this, you need to spend ample time in a day to exercise and to walk this dog otherwise; it can develop destructive behavior. Play with your dog regularly to develop a strong bond with your pet. Remember that this dog will love to swim because of its Labrador Retriever lineage. A local dog pool or a pond would work great with your dog. If you have a large yard, an old, large vat will work great just for him to play and cool off. All dogs love to fetch and play Frisbee. Use other kinds of toys like large ropes so you can play pulling games. Use a giant ball for fetches like an old football or a tennis ball. Here are a few ideas 1. This is available in six sizes so you will surely find the best size for your medium to large-sized Lab German Shepherd mix. It is indestructible so your dog will undoubtedly spend hours playing with it. It is made from durable materials that will never break or chip. This is indestructible, and your dog will surely love to play with this over and over again. It is soft but is made to be indestructible. Your pet will surely love to chew on this soft bone. This will be his favorite toy in no time. Lab German Shepherd Mix Training The Lab crossed with a German Shepherd is a brilliant dog, but it may need more than simple traditional training techniques to train this dog. The following tricks will help you make your dog obey you in no time. The Clicker Technique Learn how to train your dog using a clicker. Press this, and you will hear an audible click, a sound that dog loves very much. The clicker may be used in all kinds of tricks, but the most common is for positive reinforcement. Just click the clicker when your dog can follow the trick and then click again if you want to repeat the behavior. Invest in a good clicker which is available in most pet stores online. This can contribute to obesity and other health problems related to being overweight. Reward good behavior by patting your dog, playing with him or giving him a good scratch. Tell your dog what a good dog he is and combines this with a lot of pats as reinforcement. Every dog takes his time so you must be patient. His bed should at the same place where he found it the first time while his food bowls should also be in the same area. Consistency is the key to training dogs important stuff. Also, consider talking to everyone at home regarding your rules and commands to reinforce consistency in training your dog. Train Your Dog In A Familiar Environment Dogs like the Lab are easily distracted; therefore you must train your pup in a quiet and familiar environment first before you take him out for further training. Start inside a quiet room with only you and him. You can train him outdoors once he is less distracted to noise and the presence of other pets and people. You may also opt for professional training for your Lab German Shepherd mix dog if you want your pup to grow up and become a service dog or police dog. German Shepherd Lab Mix and Families Lab German Shepherds can be great family dogs because these dogs love to be with their masters and to please them every way they can. These are patient with children and will never roughhouse or bite. They can even tolerate toddlers and very intense games like dress up and role play games. Lab German Shepherd mix dogs will love to be with other pets and even other dogs. They are not domineering and will never cause a fight. The Lab German Shepherd mix may become anti-social and may become aggressive with people or other dogs when they are not introduced to people and other pets early on. Your dog should be trained first and exposed to other dogs and people to prevent this untoward behavior. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. He is submissive with humans and other dogs.He is 75 lbs. Odin has been instrumental in our work with shelter dogs because he is so confident and friendly. Shelter dogs take to him immediately. There was one dog in particular who was terrified of everything and was reacting with aggression.When I got him home and introduced him to Odin, he completely changed his ways. He followed Odin everywhere and soon learned to trust people. Odin is really a fantastic dog. He lives for Frisbee.Odin is two years old as of Sept. He is a fun and energetic guy. Now full grown, he likes to try and cuddle even with his lb. Conformation is more like a short hair. She has web feet, loves to swim, combination coat-has a little wave in it during the cooler months. Probably the best dog I have ever owned. His dad is a purebred German Shorthair Pointer and his mother is a purebred chocolate Labrador Retriever. He is an amazing dog and knows over 20 tricks, along with herding cattle. He is an amazing dog and I think he is a wonderful description of the best mix of this breed. We sometimes say he is on steroids as he is extremely muscled and has no fat on him at all the shorthair in him. Sweet, lovable, intelligent, well balanced. Wishing there could be a forever.

However, prices may vary depending on the breeder and the availability of puppies. This number may vary depending on the popularity of the breed and the number of breeders in a given year. The adoption fee covers mandatory wellness checks and vaccinations by a veterinarian. These organizations only recommend the most reputable breeders who have signed an agreement to abide by their Code of Ethics. German Shepherd Breed clubs are made up of volunteers who love their dogs and work hard to maintain the integrity of the breed. When looking for a breeder, you should always look for one that is recommended by your local German Shepherd club. Visiting this individual is an important part of buying your new best friend, as it will give you a chance to see their home and facilities where the puppies are bred and raised. A clean environment is very important when breeding pets, as it will ensure that your new puppy is free of any illness or parasites. You should also ask to see the parents of your prospective puppies. The adults should be well-behaved and healthy, just like their offspring. The adult dogs should be friendly and come up to meet you when you enter the facility. Most breeders will have one of the parent dogs on site. Make sure that all of the animals appear to be well taken care of and are in good health. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your German Shepherd Breeder in Arkansas Your German shepherd breeder in Arkansas should also be able to provide you with references from other people who have purchased puppies. These references can help give you peace of mind, as they are made up of former customers who have purchased a pet from the breeder. Be Prepared to Wait When buying a German shepherd puppy, be prepared to wait. Most reputable breeders have a waiting list for people who are interested in purchasing one of their puppies. This is because the breeders only want to place their puppies in the right homes. Advertising their puppies for sale too early can result in negative consequences, as it can cause potential buyers to look elsewhere. This may mean that you will have to wait several weeks or even months before you are able to adopt your new pet. You also run the risk of missing out on your first choice if you place a deposit on a pup and then back out later. Ask Your Arkansas German Shepherd Breeder if You Can Meet Past Customers Another great way to get an idea of what it would be like to purchase a puppy from your Arkansas German shepherd breeder is to ask if you can meet some of their past customers. This will give you the opportunity to ask them questions about their experience with the breeder, and whether they were happy with the final product. Most breeders are more than happy to connect you with their previous customers, as they want to ensure that their puppies go to the best home possible. Meeting past customers is a great way to get an idea of what to expect if you decide to purchase a pup from your breeder. Consider it a red flag if any breeder cannot or will not provide you with any of the information listed above. It is important to do your research before choosing a breeder, as it will help to ensure that you are getting a healthy and well-socialized puppy. Another good indicator of the quality of your breeder is whether they have a veterinarian that they use regularly. This can be one of the most important questions to ask, as it will let you know if there are any existing health concerns with their dogs and puppies. If your breeder is unable or unwilling to give you the names of their veterinarian, then it may be time to rethink buying one of their puppies. A good breeder will have a close relationship with their local veterinarians, as it helps them ensure that all of their dogs are healthy and happy. On the other hand, a good breeder will have an open relationship with their veterinarian and should be able to freely provide you with their information. Get Your Puppy Checked by a Veterinarian You should also consider getting your puppy checked by a veterinarian as soon as possible after taking them home. This is because it can help you to address any potential health concerns before they become an issue. Some of the most common signs include: The breeder does not health test their dogs prior to breeding them The breeder does not screen potential buyers before selling them a puppy The puppies are being sold at a young age Price is the only factor you are considered If any of these red flags seem to be present, it may not be a good idea to purchase one of their puppies. When searching for your new puppy, always do your research to avoid getting caught up with an unethical breeder in Arkansas. By following this advice, you will be able to find a reputable breeder that will offer you a healthy and happy puppy. They should also be willing to provide you with copies of the results from any health tests that have been conducted on the parents of the puppies. If a breeder is unwilling to answer any of your questions, or if they refuse to provide you with any health records, then it may be time to reconsider purchasing one of their pups. Consider it a major red flag if your breeder is unable to provide you with any health records. This is a mistake because it can cause a lot of stress at such an otherwise exciting time. By following some simple steps, you can ensure that your new puppy is able to settle into its new home as easily as possible: Start by getting all of the supplies that you will need such as food bowls and toys. Next, you should set up a place for them to take care of their needs. This can be as simple as an indoor puppy potty or as complex as a specially designed kennel run. Finally, you should think about what you will do with them while you are at work or school. If they come into contact with other dogs during the day, consider getting your puppy their own set of tags and collar so they can be easily identified as yours. Make sure to use common sense when preparing your home for a new German shepherd in Arkansas. Potty Training Your New German Shepherd Puppy in Arkansas One of the most important things to remember when potty training your new German shepherd puppy is that it will take some time and patience. Do not get discouraged if they have an accident in the house, as this is perfectly normal for puppies. To make the process easier on both you and your puppy, try to stick to a routine as much as possible. This means taking them outside to go to the bathroom at the same time each day. Make sure to praise them when they do relieve themselves in the right spot, and be sure to provide them with plenty of treats as a reward. If you are consistent with your potty training efforts, your German shepherd puppy will be fully trained in no time. Just like with humans, their diet plays a crucial role in how healthy they are. There are many different brands and types of food that you can try. Take your time when looking for a German shepherd breeder in Arkansas. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in Arkansas? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Arkansas cost? The price of German Shepherd puppies for sale in Arkansas all depends on whether you want a German Shepherd for sale in Arkansas with long hair, black hair, white hair, or any other color they come in! If you want a female German Shepherd Arkansas you will always pay more due to her breeding potential. Breeder experience and location also come into play when it comes to price, as well as whether or not the pup has had its shots! Can I only connect with breeders in Arkansas? How are the German Shepherd breeders screened? Our team is hard at work every day sifting through all the applicants we have wanting to be part of our network. We look at all these Arkansas German Shepherd breeders, businesses and companies, and allow less than a tenth through. Our Breeder Pledge will tell you everything we look for! Why is using Uptown Puppies such a unique experience? We want your experience of having a new family dog to be a happy one! What is a Arkansas puppy mill like? A puppy mill is a place that harbors many German Shepherds in Arkansas for the sake of breeding them to make money off their German Shepherd puppies Arkansas. Many of these puppies get sick throughout their lives, and often pass away at a young age. German Shepherds are so popular that there is such an array out there, whatever you want, will be yours. Start your search today! Is it easy to use Uptown Puppies? Just take a look at all the German Shepherds for sale Arkansas puppies, find the one that catches your eye and heart , and connect with its breeder or business. Simply make travel arrangements and voila! Can Uptown Puppies be trusted? We bridge the gap between wonderful families and wonderful breeders and businesses. We make sure that you always get to take home the most wonderful German Shepherds for sale in Arkansas from the best there is out there! Which celebrities own German Shepherds? Celebrities also love their German Shepherds Arkansas. Which Hollywood blockbusters have I seen German Shepherds in? German Shepherds in Arkansas have starred in many big movies.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Are you wondering why your German Shepherd destroys everything when they were once your angelic-like companion? Are you regretting getting a beautiful, smart, high-energy German Shepherd at all? There are a number of reasons why your puppy might begin to destroy everything, but luckily there are steps you can take to help solve the problem and stop their destructiveness. So, why is your German Shepherd destroying everything in its sight and chewing all your stuff? The top reasons why your German Shepherd becomes destructive are a lack of the right type of exercise, not enough mental stimulation, normal puppy teething, stress or illness, separation anxiety, and acting out for attention. If your German Shepherd is suddenly destroying things when it was previously well-mannered, then there could be an underlying medical issue or emotional problem causing the sudden onset of this behavior. Get your dog booked in for a thorough medical examination from your veterinarian to rule out medical reasons your dog is destructive. They are a highly intelligent breed that requires an owner willing to invest time with them. Consider why your German Shepherd might turn to destroy things so you can understand how to help and train them to stop. Here are some reasons why your German Shepherd is destroying everything. They are still used as herding dogs and in the military for their stamina. Your breed is a high-energy fireball who has an obedient and alert temperament by design. This means they are bred to do a job that requires them to stay physically active. German Shepherds require a large number of mental activities that keep them working their minds. Stimulate their minds using interesting mind games for German Shepherds or finding ways to keep your GSD entertained. If your German Shepherd is a puppy that has just started teething then this could be the cause of its destruction. Instead, train them early. As an alert breed, their watchful nature may cause them to become overly excited and worried about the noises to the point they become destructive. You can help them by learning their unique personality through bonding with your German Shepherd. Some owners might even fail to appreciate that the German Shepherd is an athletic working dog that thrives on a variety of activities. Why is this important? Because a tired German Shepherd is less likely to be a problem inside the home. You MUST learn how to exhaust a German Shepherd the right way to give both you and your dog a better quality of life together. Some types of illnesses that cause your German Shepherd to destroy everything can be helped through a visit to your veterinarian for medical treatments which can help their behavior issues. Never punish a stressed or ill German Shepherd or you will make their destructiveness worse and increase their levels of stress to the point they shut down. Get a vet appointment right away to see if your dog is unwell. To reduce destruction when you leave your dog alone, try to work on only leaving your dog alone for very short periods of time at first. This breed is known for attaching to one person and should their person not give them the attention they want or deserve they will certainly let them know by ruining their furniture, clothing, or electronics with destructive chewing. Maybe you think your German Shepherd is acting out and being stubborn. The German Shepherd is one of the most easily trained and obedient of all breeds—when you are present and make a plan to actually train them. Think of it like this: The German Shepherd is literally bred to walk and run for hours on end when herding and working. Can you run for hours a day to keep up with the exercise needs of your breed? If you can, then enter you and your dog in a marathon! Try some exercise that gets their body moving in unique ways and keeps them physically active. How should I exercise my destructive German Shepherd? Try a tail-teasing flirt pole to entice your dog to hone their herding behavior, or find a set of hills nearby and race your dog to the top to develop their powerful agility skills. Your German Shepherd may get into the habit of using the same walking trail, so switch it up to challenge them and keep them from getting bored. Unfortunately, many owners are away from home for long hours and are too tired when they return to engage their dogs in a mind game. But, mind games and mental stimulation are a necessity for the German Shepherd. You can, however, give their minds a way to engage with you and their environment in a positive manner! There are many types of mind games or brain games on the market. Some owners even make do-it-yourself games, while others prefer games that are premade. These reward-based strategy games mentally stimulate your dog and keep your pup from destructive boredom. The quickest way to train your German Shepherd to stop being destructive is by setting them up for success using daily obedience training. Obedience training helps engage your dog through positive, reward-based interaction that helps them learn not only basic commands but also how to listen and pay attention to you. Plus, it helps keep your German Shepherd from getting out of control. A German Shepherd who destroys things is definitely a great candidate to introduce to nose work to help them focus their natural scenting abilities. You can give your German Shepherd a course in nose work by having them search and find their food for some of their weekly meals. To start, hide the plates or bowls of their portioned meal in easy-to-find locations in one room of your house. This makes the game easy enough for an untrained puppy or older German Shepherd. After a few times of serving a meal this way, your dog begins to understand the game of nose work and will readily seek out their food by sniffing the area on their own. You can make it more challenging for them by using more than one room to hide their food or by moving outdoors to your secured backyard and hiding their plates of food. German Shepherds were bred to use their noses to find things, but in the modern world, their scent-finding abilities get neglected. This can lead to them destroying everything. Your focus should be on using these helpful ideas for German Shepherd enrichment. Chewing is natural and helps your dog release stress. Show them the right chew toy and encourage them to play with it. Instead, use a positive voice and reward them when they come to you and stop chewing your things. You can clap your hands or even whistle to get them to listen. What are the right things for German Shepherds to chew that can withstand being destroyed? Did you know…? Many dogs tend not to play with toys without their owner there, but food or treats placed inside specially-made toys encourage toy exploration. You can leave them a stuffed Extreme Kong , which is a heavy-duty chew toy you stuff with food and treats so it gets their attention. The idea is that your dog chews on it, instead of your things. Some owners like to create a safe place to leave their dogs, such as an area that has tempting items removed and put away. The gates still allow your dog to see through easily, which keeps your dog from developing too much stress when you leave them alone. Pick up items that your dog finds interesting and place them in a secure area. Some German Shepherd puppies find shoes, pillows, remotes, and even electric cables interesting enough to chew on and destroy. If loud or unusual noises stress your German Shepherd to the point they destroy things, then move them to a quieter area away from windows. Get a white noise machine to play soothing tones, or leave the TV or radio on low to help drown out the frightening sounds. Some owners also prefer to crate train their German Shepherd so they can secure them when they leave. The best way to prevent your German Shepherd from destroying everything is to not give them access to those items in the first place. You can also use a step-by-step guide to discipline your German Shepherd to get you started. You might wonder… How does play help reduce destruction? Some ideas for constructive play include: Playing catch or tug in your backyard for 15—30 minutes a day. Enroll your dog in doggy daycare or have a dog walker stop by. Find an agility course or teach your dog to catch a frisbee. Avoid spraying anti-chew deterrents Some owners resort to using anti-chew spray products to prevent their German Shepherd from chewing destructively. Instead, they may become wary of chewing anything — even the things that are safe to chew, like their toys. Never use physical punishment If you use physical punishment when your dog destroys things, you will lose their trust. They learn to fear you and can develop stress and anxiety. Especially a German Shepherd prone to destroying everything! Set aside time each day for their basic obedience skills. Want more help for your German Shepherd that destroys everything? Instead, find ways to encourage yourself through this troubling time. You and your dog both deserve Brain Training to ease your stress. And, for an easy step-by-step training plan, use a scientifically based program, Brain Training for Dogs. Remember, a big part of teaching your German Shepherd to stop destroying everything is the right training and management. Take action before it becomes too stressful for you to handle. Your sanity will thank you for it! Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Veterinarian Appointment Chewing is also a way for dogs, particularly young ones, to understand the world around them. However, destructive chewing by a German Shepherd is considered abnormal and should be prevented. Chewing is necessary for a dog to properly digest its food. It helps to break down the food and increase the surface area for enzymes to aid in chemical digestion. Additionally, it assists the stomach in mechanical digestion. However, it is worth considering whether excessive chewing is beneficial for a dog. Are German Shepherds bad chewers? No, German Shepherds are not inherently bad chewers. Chewing is an instinctual behavior for them. By providing them with appropriate toys to chew on, bad habits can be avoided. Therefore, it would be incorrect to say that they are bad chewers. In fact, German Shepherds are good chewers. It is the responsibility of their owners and veterinarians to ensure that they do not develop bad habits. Chewing is generally considered a positive behavior in German Shepherds. At what age do German Shepherds stop chewing everything? A German Shepherd typically stops chewing everything by the age of 7 to 8 months, as at this point their teething issues are resolved and they have developed their essential and basic behaviors and habits. How to stop my German Shepherd from chewing everything? Dog-proof your home You need to deter your German Shepherd from destructive chewing. It can be difficult for a dog to understand the difference between chewing a toy and chewing a pillow if they were not taught the distinction as a puppy. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewarding the dog with a treat for exhibiting the desired behavior, can be effective in reinforcing good habits. To prevent your German Shepherd from chewing on valuable or harmful items in the house, it is important to dog-proof your home. When you first bring a German Shepherd puppy home, closely supervise them in the house to ensure they do not chew on anything they should not. Introduce your German Shepherd to the distinction between what they can and cannot chew on. It may take a few months for these efforts to take full effect. Remember that your German Shepherd needs clear and consistent rules. This creates a sense of security and comfort, which can help prevent destructive chewing in adulthood. Provide Appropriate Chewing Toys Chewing is a natural tendency for dogs and should not be discouraged. However, destructive chewing should be prevented or addressed through providing alternative activities. According to professionals in dog care, providing your dog with toys like bones to chew on as an alternative to valuable items can promote healthy stimulation and maintain their interest. Additionally, it is recommended to regularly switch out the toys to prevent habituation, and reduce the likelihood of the dog chewing on inappropriate items. This will help you choose the most appropriate chew toys for your dog. It is important to remember that your German Shepherd should not be allowed to chew on toys all day, as this can lead to other behavioral issues. When your dog shows signs of attempting to chew on something they should not, redirect them to chew toys instead. The rest of the day should be filled with training , exercise, rest, and time spent bonding with you. Additional nibbling consideration: Tasty snacks can be a fun way to break up the monotony for your German Shepherd. While they may not last long, I personally like to use them as a reward for my German Shepherd when they exhibit good behavior. Leave it Command Despite proper training, your German Shepherd may occasionally attempt to chew on items they should not, such as the leg of a wooden kitchen table. When you notice your dog becoming interested in a non-chewable item, such as hardwood furniture, it is important to use anti-chew techniques to discourage this behavior. You can also expand on this command by giving your dog the object they are trying to chew, and repeating the command when they put it in their mouth. Each time your dog obeys the command, reward them with a treat, their favorite chew toy, or a compliment to reinforce the desired behavior. Exercise A mature German Shepherd requires plenty of physical and psychological engagement, as well as at least 2 hours of strength training per day. This can be split up into morning and evening walks, as well as daytime games and workout stretches. If your German Shepherd is not receiving plenty of exercise, his high energy and intelligence will have to be channeled elsewhere. Likewise, he will become bored and confused, which can lead to deteriorating behavior, such as unnecessary chewing. Studies have shown that when compared to those who received the appropriate amount of daily activity, puppies with minimal physical activity were more susceptible to anxiety disorders and auditory intolerance. Chew Alternatives Many pet owners believe it is acceptable to give their German Shepherds old footwear or scraps of discarded clothing to chew on, rather than more valuable items still in use. This is incorrect thinking. Anti-Chew Deterrents Consider using safe anti-chew dog deterrents if your German Shepherd is chewing on things. Use a Crate If you must keep your German Shepherd dog confined at home, keep him contained in a crate. Most dogs view their crates as a special place where they can relax or nap after exercise. Crates with double doors are commonly used. They provide you with more options when it comes to placing it in your home, but a single-door option works as well. Make sure to get a size of 48 inches so your German Shepherd has enough room to move around and stretch easily. To keep him occupied, you can leave him with two or three chew toys. Veterinarian Appointment Medical conditions such as anemia, diabetes, or gastrointestinal diseases can lead to destructive chewing. This allows for early detection and treatment of any illnesses that your German Shepherd may be experiencing. Logically speaking, it makes sense. As a herding breed, shepherds have to be cognitively capable of problem solving to some extent in order to determine how to move all their wooly charges where they need to be. Unfortunately for us, most people who own German shepherds do not also own sheep! Dogs do chew while teething, but most chewing occurs because a dog is simply bored. Why Dogs Chew Our dogs all have the genetic code to hunt and kill prey, yes, even the tiny teacup Chihuahua believes he can catch that rabbit twice his size. Thousands of years of evolution does not simply disappear because we bred Sparky to be 2 lbs. Because our dogs survived by using their predatory drive to catch food, that drive still lingers to this day. To catch a rabbit, Sparky has to sniff around and find a trail, stalk his prey, chase, grab, rip apart, and chew up the pieces. Every dog has the genetic code to perform those steps, and even if they are not forced to catch their own food to survive your pet still enjoys doing those behaviors. Address the source of the behavior. If your dog is chewing or showing any other types of destruction it is important to ensure they are getting enough mental stimulation. There are a number of different chews that may help your dog alleviate some of that need to gnaw on something. Bully Sticks Our primary choice should be bully sticks given in moderation. Because bully sticks are capable of being gnawed on for extensive periods of time, and they are fully digestible so your pet can chew them up and eat them , your dog will tackle some of that basic instinct to bite. These are not intended for complete consumption, so if your dog breaks off chunks remove the antler pieces as they could present a choking hazard. Kong Toy Another type of work-to-eat toy that is mentally stimulating for dogs is the classic KONG toy, when used properly. Instead, fill your KONG with a mixture of pumpkin and peanut butter, and then freeze. Because the mixture is frozen it will take longer for your pup to eat, and when it melts the pumpkin keeps its texture without getting watery and making a mess. If we address the source of a behavior, and simultaneously provide an alternative to the undesired behavior, the likelihood of success is much greater. Lets use our teacup Chihuahua as an example again: if Sparky has stolen a dish rag and is chewing it when I get home, and I snatch it from him and spank him with it, there are a few different behaviors that could follow. Sparky could immediately aggress towards me, because I have activated his fight or flight instinct. Alternatively, Sparky could cower in fear, and my bond with him could potentially be damaged. Though he may not cower in fear for the rest of his life, Sparky may always show a fear of soft toys with a texture similar to that of the dishtowel, or may become fearful every time I am near the dishtowel while doing dishes or cooking. This is causing undue fear and punishment when Sparky has done nothing wrong. Sparky becomes accustomed to me angrily snatching away the dishtowel, and begins snarling anytime I come near him when he has a toy expecting the same results as the dishtowel. I used Sparky as an example because a 2 lb. German Shepherd. Though they have been domesticated, anything with teeth can bite, and when you are working with a large and potentially dangerous animal it is important to make sure that you are giving that animal proper feedback and avoiding creating dangerous behavior patterns. Why punish a behavior when the results will most likely create more problems and not even aid in a solution? Empathize with your dog, they are intelligent animals that need lots of mental stimulation to live an enriched life, and if we are not providing well enough for them they will seek it elsewhere. Rather than blaming your dog, ask yourself if you are doing enough to keep them satisfied. By preventing the problem from occurring in the first place, and giving them safe and effective alternatives, your pup will be on the road to success in no time. Nylabone Big Chew Chew Toy Remember that your German Shepherd should not be chewing toys the entire day, as this can become another behavior problem. Instead, give chew toys when your dog shows signs of putting his mouth on what he should not. Other chewing considerations: Edible chews are a good alternative to mix things up a bit for your GSD. Edible chews for teeth cleaning are also ideal, and my GSD loves Dentastix from Amazon, especially the variety pack. Avoid rawhide chews , as these can be dangerous for some dogs. I prefer alternatives to rawhide, but it really does depend on your dog. This interesting study investigated the effects of giving the horn of a calf hoof as a chew. The resulting finding was that although the hooves provided a positive experience for the dogs as a chew, they should not be given to prevent tooth lesions. Using anti-chew commands is important in deterring your dog from destructive chewing when you notice his attention to a non-chew object, such as wooden furniture in your home. Keep Your German Shepherd Dog Well-Exercised As a high-energy and extremely smart dog, an adult German Shepherd requires plenty of mental and physical stimulation with at least 2 hours of exercise daily. This can be distributed between a morning and evening walk and the play and training exercises during the day. If your German Shepherd is under-exercised, his high energy and smartness will have to be directed to other outlets. Besides, he will feel bored and frustrated, resulting in destructive behavior and that could be excessive chewing. Research on dog anxiety found that those who had little daily exercise as puppies were more prone to separation anxiety and noise sensitivity when compared to those who had the recommended amount of daily exercise. Do Not Offer Old Possessions As Chew Alternatives Some dog owners think that it is ok to offer their German Shepherd old shoes, rags, or cast-off clothes to chew instead of the valuable ones still in use. Wrong thinking! If you give your dog an old shoe to chew, you are reinforcing his preference for chewing shoes. Once the old shoe is all destroyed and no longer good to chew, your German Shepherd will look for your latest purchase to replace the consumed one! Dogs are dogs, and they do not know the difference between an old shoe and a brand new one! Spray the appalling deterrent on the objects you want to keep your dog from chewing. Reapply the deterrent daily for weeks so that your dog permanently associates the object with the smell or taste. Note that coupling the deterrent with another form of training that redirects your German Shepherd to chew permitted objects such as toys will be more effective in making your dog cease chewing your valuables. However, be careful with the latter as although the pepper is not harmful to your dog if swallowed, it may irritate his eyes if he gets it on his paws and then rubs his face. Also, you will need to supervise your German Shepherd when you use a deterrent for the first time. Some dogs can be daring and will brave bad odor or taste to get what they want! Ensure you use deterrents that are alcohol-free and safe for both your dog and your valuables, as well as non-staining. If using a homemade deterrent, make sure you know which foods are poisonous to your German Shepherd. Most dogs love their crate and see it as their special place where they can go to relax or sleep after a good exercise session. They give you more options when deciding where in your home to place it, but this one also has a single-door option. You may want to leave him two or three toy chews to keep him busy. Your GSD should be caged for the rest of the time. Remember that the maximum number of hours you should leave your dog in a crate is four. More than that is considered extreme, and your dog may even turn to self-destructive behavior like biting himself or chewing his crate to the point of hurting his teeth and mouth. This allows for early diagnosis and treatment should your GSD be suffering from any of the conditions. Suppose the medical condition is psychological, like in anxiety, working with a behavioral therapist is advised. However, in all cases, ensure that your dog has a proper professional diagnosis before initiating any treatment or therapy. Final Thoughts Chewing is a normal and instinctual exploratory behavior in German Shepherds and all dog breeds. This means that you should not try to eliminate it. Dogs chew to find relief from teething discomfort or strengthen their teeth and jaws. When chewing is constant, targets valuables, and causes harm to your German Shepherd, then it becomes abnormal and destructive and should be stopped. Abnormal chewing in German Shepherds can be caused by poor training in puppyhood, anxiety, insufficient exercise, boredom and frustration, attention-seeking, and predisposing medical conditions. Related Posts You May Like:.

All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. When you bring a new puppy home, it's important to keep feeding it the same food that it has been eating at its previous home. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Talk to the person or organization that you are adopting your puppy from to see what food they are feeding it. They should willingly provide that info and they may even send you home with some if you can't find any to buy. If you can't find the right food in your local pet supply store, consider ordering it online. However, you would need to order it ahead of time so that you have it on hand when the puppy comes home. If you want to feed your puppy a different food from what it has been eating, you will need to switch its food over the course of several days. Feed that mix for several days. Finally, you can give the puppy all new food. If you are content to give your puppy the food it was originally eating, it's fine to do that. Every puppy will have different nutritional needs. Because of this, it's a good idea to discuss proper nutrition with your vet. They can suggest great foods to give your puppy and how much it should be eating. Go to source The right portion size depends on the size of your puppy and its metabolism. Ask your vet to teach you how to body score your puppy. This will allow you to do a quick visual check to see whether your puppy is losing or gaining weight. Tip: If your vet suggests a specific food but doesn't tell you how much to give your puppy, follow the instructions on the packaging. Doing 3 or 4 feedings per day allows your puppy to get enough nutrients without overwhelming its digestive system with a huge amount of food at once. This is especially important when your puppy is under 6 months old, as they have delicate systems. Go to source Don't just leave the food out all day. Take the food away after the puppy eats for about 10 or 15 minutes. Lab puppies should always have access to fresh water so that they can stay adequately hydrated. Put out a dish of water and dump it out, clean the dish, and refill it daily. Some puppies are really messy with their water dishes. To prevent a mess, try putting the water dish on a tray, so that spilled water won't go right onto the floor. This cancer has a very grave prognosis. Nutritional Dilated Cardiomyopathy Nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy nutritional DCM is a heart disease Labrador Retrievers may acquire by eating a grain-free diet that contains peas, legumes, or lentils among the top five ingredients. DCM causes the heart to become dilated and unable to function properly. Labrador Retrievers with mild to moderate DCM may be asymptomatic. In severe cases, symptoms include rapid heart rate, cough, difficulty breathing, lethargy, lack of appetite, collapse, weight loss, and even death. This heart condition may first be detected by a veterinarian hearing a heart murmur during a routine exam, or by a blood test called an NT-proBNP assay that measures heart function. If nutritional DCM is diagnosed early, it can be reversed by feeding the dog a high-quality diet containing grain, and also by providing cardiac supplements. If the disease is advanced it cannot be reversed, but heart medications may be able to manage it for a period of time. You can prevent this condition by feeding your Labrador a well-balanced diet that includes grain. Progressive Retinal Atrophy Progressive retinal atrophy PRA is a disease of the eye that can occur as a result of various genetic mutations. The retina slowly degenerates over a period of time, leading to permanent dilation of the pupils and eventual blindness. PRA can be diagnosed with an eye exam. It usually develops in Labrador Retrievers at 3 to 9 years of age. Gene therapy may be helpful for dogs with this condition, but more research needs to be done to improve the outcome. Dogs that carry these genetic mutations should not be bred. What to Feed a Labrador Retriever Labrador Retriever puppies should be fed a high-quality puppy formula made for large breeds until they are a year old. Once they reach adulthood, they will need to transition to a high-quality adult formula for large breeds. To avoid complications with nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy DCM , talk with your veterinarian about appropriate dog foods that are not grain-free. A grain-free diet with peas, legumes, or lentils among the top five ingredients has been linked to this heart condition. How to Feed a Labrador Retriever Labrador Retrievers do best with twice-daily feedings, morning and evening. They love to eat and are known to eat very quickly. If you notice your dog gobbling food down, consider a slow-feeding device. This will regulate the amount of food your dog can eat at one time and prevent regurgitation and stomach upset that can happen if they eat too quickly. Labrador Retrievers are deep-chested, and if they eat too quickly this can lead to bloat , an emergency situation where the stomach twists on itself. How Much to Feed a Labrador Retriever Labrador Retriever puppies have rapid growth spurts, so feed them a high-quality puppy formula when they are under 12 months of age. Puppy food will provide the extra calories they need to grow to their full potential. Follow the feeding guidelines on the back of the bag of large-breed puppy formula based on age and expected body weight. Once your Labrador Retriever is 1 year old, switch to a high-quality large-breed adult formula—which has fewer calories than the puppy version—to prevent unwanted weight gain. To determine how much to feed your Labrador Retriever , check the feeding guidelines on the bag and chat with your veterinarian to find the appropriate portions to help keep your dog at a healthy weight. Nutritional Tips for Labrador Retrievers Starting a Labrador Retriever on a joint supplement early in life can help slow down or possibly prevent arthritis. Virbac Movoflex , Synovi Chews , Dasuquin , Cosequin , and Flexadin are some examples of joint supplements that have gone through clinical trials and been proven effective. Another supplement to consider for a Labrador Retriever is an omega-3 fatty acid fish oil. This supplement helps to reduce inflammation in the joints, makes the coat shiny, and protects the skin barrier from allergens in the environment. They are very affectionate toward children, other pets, and even strangers. They love to play and are highly energetic throughout most of their lives. They need lots of exercise and attention to make them happy. Labrador Retrievers are considered moderate barkers. They are not known for digging in the yard. It is rare for a Labrador Retriever to show any sign of aggression. They may try to eat socks, shoes, furniture, and other items, or get into the trash. Therefore, keep a watchful eye on puppies and spend the time to train them on what they can and cannot eat. To help deter barking, start redirecting the behavior early and finding healthier outlets. Labrador Retriever Training Labrador Retriever puppies are very energetic and will grow into very strong dogs. It is highly recommended that Labrador Retriever puppies participate in puppy training and obedience training classes. They need to be socialized with different people and pets, so they get used to being around others at a young age. Be sure to quickly correct any bad puppy behaviors that arise—such as biting, growling, chewing on objects, and trying to eat random items—so that these behaviors do not continue and worsen over time. Fun Activities for Labrador Retrievers Scent work. They help you find the information you need right now. You might also want to check out our sections on Labrador Puppy Training. Do let us know what you would like to see added to the site. We are always happy to have your comments and suggestions. When To Collect Your Puppy We highly recommend that puppies are not removed from their breeder until they are 8 weeks old. There are lots of good reasons for this. It helps puppies develop good bite moderation skills before they are adopted into a family, ensures that they are ready to adapt quickly to their new life. And it helps to reduce the sad numbers of puppies bred for a quick profit. Puppies sold under seven weeks old often have health problems and need special care, and extra veterinary attention. Check out the following articles for further information: When can puppies leave their mother Your first puppy Your first puppy is a huge adventure. You have so much fun ahead. Labradors are generally very friendly dogs, but they can also be very distractible. So do start daily training games, using plenty of food. You can get regular training tips from Pippa by email, using the box below. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on. Your dog is special! Chances are that you chose her because you like Labs and you expected her to have certain traits that would fit your lifestyle: Bouncy, cheerful, loyal, and enthusiastic Good with kids and other pets Above average intelligence and trainability when positive reinforcement training methods are used Loves to play games, especially fetch People-oriented and eager to please Even temper and gentle disposition However, no dog is perfect! Of course! Loyal and lively, these water-loving dogs make exceptional family members and hunting partners. They were valued by fisherman for their trainability, trustworthiness, and work ethic. Fulfilling their retriever name, they would dive into icy cold waters to help pull in fishing nets and occasionally catch stray fish that had escaped. Today the Labrador comes in two varieties: the American tall and lanky or English short and stocky. Whether American or English ancestry, there are three color versions — black, blonde, and brown. When given plenty of vigorous exercise and attention, these sweethearts are gentle and well-behaved in the home. All you need is a ball to throw and your Lab will love you for life! The Labrador Retriever is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Labrador. By knowing about health concerns specific to Labrador Retrievers, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in Labrador Retrievers to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Labrador Retrievers. At the end of the booklet, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Lab looking and feeling her best. And unfortunately, your Lab is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. It starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections Labrador Retrievers are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, her age, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in Labrador Retrievers. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Roundworm egg as seen under the microscope. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Labrador is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. For example, if your pet needs hip X-rays or a puppy tooth extracted, this would be a good time. This is convenient for you and easy for your friend. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions for common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. This means your Labrador is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off blood supply to the stomach, and sometimes the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as 30 minutes. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes out , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly. If your friend has PSS, his liver cannot remove toxins from his bloodstream effectively. Surgery may be needed, but in some cases, we can treat with a special diet and medication. Your Labrador Retriever is prone to a chronic liver disease, called hepatitis, starting when he is middle aged. We usually diagnose it with blood testing and liver biopsy, and we treat it with medication and special diets. Signs of liver disease do not usually occur until most of the liver is already damaged or destroyed. Early detection and intervention with routine blood screening allows us to detect this problem at an earlier, more treatable stage. Bleeding Disorders Your Labrador Retriever is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test, as we may not know your pet has this disorder until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. Hemolytic Anemia and Thrombocytopenia Labradors are particularly prone to some relatively rare diseases of the blood. If the immune system destroys red blood cells, your dog quickly becomes anemic, weak, and lethargic. His gums will look whitish or yellow instead of the normal bright pink color. Sometimes an emergency transfusion of red blood cells or platelets is needed. Bone and Joint Problems A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Labrador Retrievers. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. Keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! Illustration showing a tear in the cranial cruciate ligament of the knee joint. The cranial cruciate ligament is one of the four tough bands of tissue that hold each knee together. A torn cranial cruciate ligament is a common injury in active dogs, which includes your Lab. Usually surgical correction is done to stabilize the knee and help prevent crippling arthritis. Physical therapy and multimodal pain management are necessary to get the best outcome. Keeping him at the right weight, feeding a high-quality diet, and avoiding too much twisting of the knees like playing Frisbee are key in avoiding this painful injury. When Labrador puppies are allowed to grow too quickly, the cartilage in their joints may not attach to the bone properly. This problem is known as osteochondritis dissecans or OCD. If this occurs, surgery may be required to fix the problem. Feed a large-breed puppy diet rather than an adult or a regular puppy diet. Weigh your puppy every three to four weeks. Neurological Disease A genetically linked neurological condition that could occur in your Labrador Retriever causes a wobbly, drunken gait. This condition, known as wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, happens because there is a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck, which pinches the spinal cord and associated nerves. If the nerves do not send signals to the brain the way they are supposed to, your dog cannot feel his feet. The first signs you will often notice are unstable hind legs, stumbling, and sometimes falling. Medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery are treatment options. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but Labs have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars and require daily insulin injections. It is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Allergies In humans, an allergy to pollen, mold, or dust makes people sneeze and their eyes itch. In dogs, rather than sneeze, allergies make their skin itchy. Commonly, the feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for this condition. Bleeding Tumor Hemangiosarcoma is a type of bleeding tumor that affects Labrador Retrievers at greater than average incidence. These tumors commonly form in the spleen, but can form in other organs as well. Unbeknownst to a pet owner, the tumor breaks open and internal bleeding occurs. Some tumors can be volleyball-sized or larger before signs of sickness show. We often find clues that one of these tumors is present during senior wellness testing, so have his blood tested and an ultrasound performed at least yearly. Abnormal lymphocytes, as seen under the microscope, confirming a diagnosis of lymphoma. Lymphoma Lymphoma or lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that afflicts Labrador Retrievers more than other breeds. This disease makes the body form abnormal lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Because white blood cells can be found throughout the body, this cancer can show up almost anywhere. Lymphoma is a very treatable form of cancer, with an excellent success rate in dogs receiving chemotherapy. Treatment can be costly, however, and is a lifelong commitment. Luckily, lymphoma is one of the few types of cancer that can often be found with a blood test, so we may recommend a complete blood count twice yearly. Unfortunately, Labrador Retrievers can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. The adrenal glands are situated along the vena cava the large vein in the abdominal cavity near each kidney. These small glands release many important hormones in the body. This is a common problem in dogs, and your Lab is more likely than other dogs to be affected. The condition usually develops slowly, and the early signs are easily missed. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite and reduced activity level. Later, a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss are characteristic. Treatment usually includes oral medications, and requires close coordination with us to ensure correct dosing. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary, or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, with Labrador Retrievers commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, they will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control, with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and effectiveness. Note the length of the seizure, and call us or an emergency hospital. Heart Disease Some breeds like your Labrador can be born with a variety of heart defects. They can also cause problems with the electrical signals that control the heartbeat or with heart valve function. Special testing will be recommended if we hear a heart murmur or you notice any unusual symptoms such as tiring easily, coughing, a swollen belly, or fainting. Exercise Induced Collapse Exercise Induced Collapse, or EIC, is just what it sounds like — a young, apparently healthy Labrador collapses to the ground suddenly while exercising. In a few minutes, the weakness passes and he can get up again. Affected dogs cannot run for too long, especially in hot weather, so a day of hunting or strenuous hiking is probably not a good idea. Heat stroke can occur along with EIC. Limiting exercise is the only treatment and pet parents should be vigilant to avoid overheating. Genetic testing can be done to diagnose the disease and to screen dogs before breeding. Muscle Disease Labrador Retrievers may develop a disease of the muscles, called myopathy, somewhere between three and seven months old. Physical signs include bunny hopping, loss of muscle tone in the limbs, a stiff gait, or carrying the head low. Most dogs with myopathy are stabilized by twelve months of age, have a normal life span, and are suitable as house companions: no hunting or working! Taking Care of Your Labrador Retriever at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Lab live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. Brush her coat as needed, at least weekly. Labrador Retrievers generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. Always walk your Lab on a leash, she has a tendency to run off after interesting smells and people. She has a passion for water and swimming is a perfect form of exercise for this water retriever. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease, or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help, and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Labrador Retriever needs help. For the most up-to-date information on DNA and other screening tests available for your pal, visit www. Your Labrador counts on you to take good care of her, and we look forward to working with you to ensure that she lives a long and healthy life. Please contact us when you have questions or concerns. References: Ackerman L. Second edition. AAHA Press; .Veterinary medical guide to dog and cat breeds. Jackson, Wyoming. Teton New Media; .Gough A, Thomas A. Breed Predispositions to Disease in Dogs and Cats. Wiley-Blackwell; .Canine Inherited Disorders Database [Internet]. University of Prince Edward Island.

Having a dog is very responsible, and one of those responsibilities is to walk the dog. Read the basics, how to walk your four-legged friend. In some cases, the roundworm can form a big ball, which blocks the intestines, which further leads to the death of a pet. According to experienced professionals, puppies faster and better adapted to carry. Unfortunately, many lightly attributable to the acquisition of the future family member and have only a superficial understanding of the rules of the content pet in the apartment. As a result of Dog in the house Dog - a real one, with the advent of each person whose life is changed. Someone enjoys wonderful moments spent with the animal, someone eventually get tired of careful care of them. Anyway, the pet will always meet his master with eyes filled with love an How to take care of a rising puppy If you have a puppy of a small breed, it will be easier to take care of it. You will need a comb and a small brush. 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Lab puppies are energetic little learners eager to run, swim, and fetch. Although active, they also tend to overeat and gulp down their food. They can benefit from the right growth formula to provide immune system support, healthy growth, weight management, and digestive care as they take on puppyhood. Royal Canin Labrador Retriever dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed puppy. Whether you have a Yellow Lab, Chocolate Lab, or Black Lab, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your Labrador Retriever puppy with specific nutrients to help them thrive. The unique donut-shaped kibble is specially designed to help your fast eater slow down and actually chew. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune system and keeps their body growing strong. Calcium and phosphorus support healthy bone structure, while a balanced energy content helps them maintain an ideal weight. Once your Lab puppy is over 15 months old, transition them to Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult dog food for precise nutrition into the adult years. Read more Promoting pet health and wellbeing Creating value for our entire ecosystem Committed to become certified carbon neutral by Cookie Settings. Home Delivery Select a variant to view product availability Royal Canin knows what makes your Labrador Retriever puppy magnificent is in the details. Lab puppies are energetic little learners eager to run, swim, and fetch. Although active, they also tend to overeat and gulp down their food. They can benefit from the right growth formula to provide immune system support, healthy growth, weight management, and digestive care as they take on puppyhood. Royal Canin Labrador Retriever dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed puppy. Whether you have a Yellow Lab, Chocolate Lab, or Black Lab, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your Labrador Retriever puppy with specific nutrients to help them thrive. The unique donut-shaped kibble is specially designed to help your fast eater slow down and actually chew. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune system and keeps their body growing strong. Calcium and phosphorus support healthy bone structure, while a balanced energy content helps them maintain an ideal weight. Once your Lab puppy is over 15 months old, transition them to Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Adult dog food for precise nutrition into the adult years. Chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, brown rice, corn gluten meal, wheat gluten, corn, chicken fat, natural flavors, dried plain beet pulp, fish oil, pea fiber, sodium silico aluminate, egg product, vegetable oil, monocalcium phosphate, psyllium seed husk, potassium chloride, calcium carbonate, fructooligosaccharides, sodium tripolyphosphate, hydrolyzed yeast source of betaglucans , vitamins [DL-alpha tocopherol acetate source of vitamin E , L-ascorbylpolyphosphate source of vitamin C , biotin, niacin supplement, D-calcium pantothenate, pyridoxine hydrochloride vitamin B6 , riboflavin supplement, vitamin A acetate, thiamine mononitrate vitamin B1 , folic acid, vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin D3 supplement, menadione sodium bisulfite complex], salt, trace minerals [zinc proteinate, ferrous sulfate, manganous oxide, sodium selenite, calcium iodate], choline chloride, glucosamine hydrochloride, taurine, marigold extract Tagetes erecta L. Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your pet's temperament, activity level and environment. If you have any questions regarding your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. Transition Instructions We recommend at least a 7 day transition before you begin feeding the new food exclusively. On the 7th day, you can feed the new food exclusively. All of our dry diets are preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols, citric acid, and rosemary extract. Our canned diets are naturally preserved and sterilized during the cooking and canning process. Where do the ingredients in Royal Canin diets come from? Royal Canin is making strides towards sustainability by attempting to obtain sources of raw materials as close to each manufacturing facility as possible. In some cases, we use international suppliers, because only those suppliers can offer raw materials that comply with our quality and food safety standards. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain by-products? Royal Canin chooses ingredients because they deliver high-quality nutrients that support our customized pet food formulas. Using chicken by-product meal instead of chicken meal for example will allow Royal Canin to maintain its highly customized nutrient standards while achieving a more secure and sustainable supply. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain grains? As always, we focus on the nutrients each ingredient provides and grains can provide many important nutrients. How do you ensure Royal Canin diets are safe for my pet? Our Quality and Food Safety systems are state-of-the-art and we continue to invest heavily in new technology to make sure they remain that way. We monitor every load delivered to our plants to verify the safety and quality of the ingredients we use to make pet food. We perform tests on finished pet foods before they are shipped to our customers. How do I know which Royal Canin diet is right for my pet? Based on size, age, lifestyle, and breed, each cat or dog has unique nutritional needs. For healthy pets, use our Product Selector to find the right diet for your cat or dog. If your pet is experiencing health issues, please refer to your veterinarian for more information. Your veterinarian will consider multiple factors when recommending an appropriate diet.