german shepherd puppy floppy ears

Temperament: Friendly, stubborn and playful. Pugs are known for their wrinkly squished face, curled tail and sturdy body. Shih Tzus tend to look very different. They are often shorter, with wide bodies and longer fur. They also possess a squished face, but it is not wrinkly like that of the Pug. Expect your mix to have a sturdy body with long legs, and the smushed face of a Shih Tzu. Their tail can be either curly or straight, but tends to curve over their backs. Coat and Colors The Pug Shih Tzu mix comes in a range of different colors, including black, white, fawn, brindle and brown. Brown and brindle tend to be the most common, and white markings are very common with these dogs. Their coat is long and will need regular trimming as it does continue to grow. It is straight in texture and soft to the touch — this means that it is prone to tangling, so daily brushing is a must for this breed. Height and Weight These dogs tend to be on the sturdier side, weighing between pounds and ranging in height from inches. However just like most mixed breeds, their size can vary and can occasionally be out of these ranges. Known for their love of children, these dogs make a great choice for families with young kids. Pug Shih Tzu mixes are perfect for apartment living. They do not tolerate the heat very well. Both parent breeds are ancient breeds that are over years old. Shih Tzus are known for being confident and hard headed, whilst Pugs are known for their easy going, good natured temperament. As a result the Pug Shih Tzu mix is known for having a well balanced temperament and gets along well with everyone and everything. They little dogs just love to play especially with you , so make sure that you set aside time each day to play games with them. Also make sure to provide plenty of toys for them — tugs, squeaky toys and balls tend to be some of their favorites. A quick walk around the block with some play time in the backyard or even inside is enough for this dog. More than anything the Pug Shih Tzu mix is a couch potato and just wants to cuddle with you on the couch. They love to be with their owners so much they suffer from separation anxiety. So if you are going to be away for long hours, having someone stop by to take them for a walk can help to curb the anxiety. One of the downsides is this breed can be very headstrong which can make training difficult more on this later. The good news though is they are not big barkers. They will bark to alert to someone at the door or something out of place, but other than that they tend to be very quiet. This makes them a great option for apartment living. The Pug Shih Tzu mix makes an amazing family dog. They love to play with children and get very excited, just make sure they play gently! They do not require a lot of physical or mental stimulation and do well in most homes. This breed is also excellent for first time dog owners, or even families with children. The biggest care commitment with this dog is their grooming and maintenance. Exercise Requirements A short walk around the block with a few minutes of play at home is plenty for this breed. In general the Pug Shih Tzu mix is a fairly lazy breed, so you do not have to put a lot of running or walking time into them. If you are looking for a hiking companion, this is not the dog for you. This breed should always be walked on leash or in a fenced-in area. These dogs have a tendency to wander and are not very good with recalls, so keeping them on a leash is best for their safety. Number of Walks Per Day: 1. Total Exercise Needed Per Day: 30 minutes. Grooming and Shedding The most intensive part of caring for a Pug-Zu is the grooming. Although the Shih Tzu is considered hypoallergenic, this trait does not always carry over into the Shih Tzu Pug mix. Daily brushing is needed to prevent their coat from tangles. Your dog will need to visit the groomer about every six weeks for a trim. Keep baths to a minimum as this can dry their skin out. Small dogs are also prone to dental issues, so make sure their teeth are brushed one to two times a week. Another thing that you will need to do is clean out their ears weekly to avoid infection. With little planning ahead you could get reimbursed for every vet bill from now on! Feeding and Diet This mix should be fed kibble specifically designed for small dogs — they do not need anything super high in protein. As a puppy it is best to feed them three times a day. Once fully grown switching to two meals a day will work. Remember these dogs are prone to obesity, so make sure not to free fed them or give them lots of of snacks. These dogs can live anywhere from years old. How to Train a Pug Shih Tzu Mix While training this dog you should remember that these dogs are highly food motivated. So using a combination of positive reinforcement and rewarding good behavior is the best method of dog training for them. However these mixes are known for being very stubborn and sometimes hard-headed, so repetition and patience is needed. The best way to avoid this stubbornness is to only train in small bursts of about ten to fifteen minutes — this keeps your dog from getting too exhausted. It is important to lay down rules with them from an early age to make sure that they are well behaved when they are older. Socialization is extremely important as a puppy to ensure they become a well-rounded adult. In general they are known for being very well behaved with children, other dogs and pets. They love strangers so do not expect them to ever be a good watch dog. Fortunately this little dog does not need a lot of mental stimulation. Just some basic obedience training is needed to make sure that your dog listens as they grow older. You can also come up with fun games to play with them. These dogs love almost any game that you can come up with — fetch, tug, you name it, these playful dogs will love it. Lifespan Sociability When you are looking for a Pug Zu puppy, make sure that you are looking for a good breeder and do some research. You also want to learn about the health conditions that the parents have. Pug-Zus tend to be loving and friendly dogs, but they can have a stubborn side to their personality. Training and early socialization are essential for Pug-Zus so they get along with other pets and remain calm around people. You should know that you are going to have a very dependent dog when you choose this mix. Your Pug Zu will do everything in their power to get attention and they will always be by your side. Your Pug Zu will make friends with your other pets, even cats, and they are small, so it will be fine with children. They love getting attention and have playful, positive personalities and make great companions. Usually, these dogs are curious, fun-loving and even-tempered. They love everyone, they might be happy to lead any intruder into your house. Are These Dogs Good for Families? The result is a family companion with a sweet nature. Buy high-quality food so that they get the nutrition that they need. You can do this as playtime or as a walk. One thing to know is that your Pug Zu is heat sensitive, and they will get overexerted easily in a hot climate. Because of this, you want to start training early. This may make them fear you. This hybrid loves food and is going to eagerly respond to treats. This is going to help during your training. You also want to socialize him early. Socializing them early will help with reducing fearfulness, anxiety and other possible behaviors. You also want to add some activities that will stimulate him mentally to his training. These can be things like puzzles or games. This will help keep your Pug Zu from becoming bored and to improve his social interaction. If your Pug Zu has a long coat, you will need to brush it daily since it can tangle easily. If you have a Pug Zu with a shorter coat, the maintenance will be easier. When Your Pug-Zu should be bathed only when necessary and with dog shampoo so as not to impact his natural oils. You also may have allergies , different infections, joint problems, dental concerns, and problems with hot climates. Minor Conditions. You may also check out sites like www. If he has the long coat just like his Shih Tzu parent, then he will be needing daily brushing as his coat can tangle very easily. Moreover, other grooming needs of your pet dog such as nail clipping and ear cleaning can also be done efficiently by a groomer. For Shih Tzu Pugs that inherit the shorter coats, they will need relatively less maintenance. Their lifespan is just average for small breed types. For this reason, potential owners of this mixed breed should need to take time understanding both breeds of origin as well as get as much historical information from the dog breeders. The knee joint, most often the hind leg, slides in and out of place which causes extreme pain to your dog. This can be crippling. Hip Dysplasia: The Pug breed is genetically susceptible to this condition, and the possibility of passing it to its offspring is highly possible. The Shih Tzu Pug mix is prone to have idiopathic epilepsy which is characterized by seizures that occur for no known reason. If your Shih Tzu Pug experiences an episode of seizure, take him to your veterinarian to determine what treatment is appropriate for your companion dog. Epilepsy: It is the abnormal formation of the hip socket which causes extreme pain and lameness on your dog. Allergies: This is a common ailment in all dog types. Your Pug crossed with Shih Tzu may suffer from a variety of allergies ranging from food, contact and inhalant allergies. If you see your pup rubbing his face a great deal or licking his paws a lot than what he usually does, then have him check by your veterinarian. Eye problems: Diseases of the eye are not uncommon among the Shih Tzu and the Pug dog breeds because of their large eyes. Some of the eye conditions common to both breeds include proptosis, distichiasis, progressive renal atrophy, and dry eye. The above health conditions can be avoided by making sure that you only purchase from a reputable breeder who is able to present you with health clearances for both parent breeds. Pug crossed with Shih Tzu Food Requirements The Pug crossed with Shih Tzu is a typically small hybrid, so their dietary requirement is fairly minimal too. Here are some of the best dry dog food for small dogs. He will be requiring a nutrient-rich kibble that satisfies his age, small size, and activity level needs. Plan to feed him one-half to one cup of high-quality dog food daily which should be divided into two meals. Opt for dog food or kibble that is low in carbohydrates and fillers that may cause him to overeat to feel full. Always go only for the best dry dog food and avoid the nutrient-deprived worst dry dog food at all cost. For healthy dog food options for your Pug Shih Tzu, here are some more recommendations: Wellness Complete for Small Breeds The Wellness Complete brand is known for creating food formulas that focus on quality ingredients and high nutritional value. This formula for small-sized dog breed is a good option for your Pug Shih Tzu. Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food This dog food is formulated with a limited list of premium carbohydrate and protein sources. It supports a healthy, shiny coat and excellent digestive health. Orijen Adult Dog Food Orijen is a dog food brand that works well for almost every breed type. Its ingredients comprise of a perfect blend of chicken, turkey, fish, and avocado. This dog food is made with high-quality and easy-to-digest ingredients rich antioxidants and vitamins C and E to support a healthy immune system of your senior Shih Tzu Pug mix. Since your lovely mixed pooch is a medium-size one, you could also offer them some of the best large breed dry dog food formulas and see how they like them. But you should never experiment like that with cubs and old doggos — here are the best puppy food brands and the best senior dry dog food recipes, respectively. Shih Tzu Crossed with Pug Exercise Requirements Despite his small size, the Shih Tzu crossed with Pug is a relatively active dog and therefore requires a moderate amount of physical activity. A minimum of 30 minutes of exercise per day, which includes either an outdoor walk or an indoor play, would suffice. When staying outdoors during the summer months, make sure your Pug Shih Tzu does not overexert himself too much under the sun since this hybrid is very sensitive to heat. Indoor activities are always welcome on these days. The Shih Tzu Pug mix can live quite happily in small spaces, so they are perfect for small apartment living as long as you make sure they still get their adequate need of short walks and lots of playtimes. They are always willing and enthusiastic to learn new tricks, although there are times that they can be stubborn. Be gentle but firm in training your Pug Shih Tzu pup. This is called the positive reinforcement method which will aid your pup in a long way to behave well and eliminate unwanted behaviors. Puppy socialization is known to effectively reduce having aggressive behaviors, fearfulness, and anxiety later on in their adulthood. This is to keep your Pug mixed with Shih Tzu from getting bored and to further improve its social interactions. The cheerful Pug Tzu brings together the friendly personality of the Pug and the confident character of the Shih Tzu for a sweet-natured family companion. His warm and affectionate disposition makes him a fun companion to children and other animals as well. This cute and lovely hybrid is friendly to everyone even to strangers. The personality from both sides of its parent breeds makes the Pug Tzu have a loving as well as trusting nature. With early socialization and proper training, the Shih Tzu crossed with Pug can go along well with children and can be your loyal family pet companion. Be a responsible owner by feeding them the right amount and type of food, socializing and training them early and giving them sufficient amount of exercises daily. If you were able to accomplish those things rightly, expect a Pug Shih Tzu mix that will shower you with lots of affection and loyalty. White, brown, fawn, black, brindle Suitable for: Families with children, active people, those with plenty of time to spend with a dog Temperament: Loyal, easy to train, intelligent, affectionate, playful This breed is beloved by everyone, including first-time dog owners. These small, non-aggressive dogs are smart enough to be trained easily while maintaining their easy-going nature. They are playful and gentle with kids. That said, while two Pug Zus may look different, their personalities should be similar. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. This makes finding a breeder difficult. Some people find themselves with accidental litters and advertise the puppies at a low price just to get rid of them. While Pug Zus are ideal family dogs, they are not effective guard dogs. Their overly loving temperaments prevent this. These dogs are suited for apartment living due to their size and the fact that they thrive wherever their people are. If owned by a family, they will love everyone in it, and if owned by one person, they will bond with them. They thrive when they receive attention and love from their families. They are gentle and patient around children and make fun playmates for them. As long as the children are gentle with the dog, the Pug Zu is naturally accepting of everyone and knows how to play well with kids. While these dogs are extremely sociable, they should still be socialized as early as possible to get them used to people and other animals. Pug Zus are smart and clever. They respond to training well and can learn new things quickly. They can be stubborn at times and decline to do what is asked of them, but a strong routine with positive reinforcement will be able to override this, especially if you use a treat that the dog enjoys as motivation. Since Pug Zus are highly food-motivated, using treats along with proper training methods will keep them behaving the way that you want them to. Are These Dogs Good for Families? If you have a Pug Zu as a single owner, the dog will bond to you and consider you their family. If you welcome a Pug Zu into your home with children, the dog will consider them playmates and friends. This dog has a welcoming and friendly personality and loves people. Pug Zus need company and want to be around people as much as possible. Consider your schedule before bringing this dog home. Pug Zus get along with other pets. They are more accepting of other pets in the home if they grew up with them from puppyhood. Other pets, especially other dogs, can help them through their separation anxiety when people leave the house. Measure out a nutrient-rich kibble twice a day to meet their caloric requirement. Use treats sparingly. This breed is prone to becoming obese and should be monitored to maintain a healthy weight. They enjoy long daily walks for exercise and mental stimulation. Two minute walks per day will keep them happy. If those walks could be combined with time spent in a fenced-in area chasing a ball, that would be even better. Indoor exercise is also something that they enjoy. Games of fetch could be played inside. In hot weather, care should be taken to not overexert your Pug Zu. They are prone to overheating. You can take them to classes, work one-on-one with a trainer, or watch training videos online to learn the proper training methods. Once they get the hang of a new trick or command, they will love to show it off. Learning new things is fun for them. While they are considered easy to train, this is true only if the correct methods are used. They respond best to positive reinforcement and strong routines. Repetition and patience are necessary to show them the correct ways to behave. Food is their greatest motivation, so high-value treats will help them learn even faster. Also, since they are prone to dental diseases , brushing their teeth is a helpful way to reduce the amount of plaque and tartar that can build up. You can reduce the need for extractions in the future by keeping their teeth clean now. The amount of grooming that your Pug Zu will need depends on the coat that they inherited. A dog with a Pug coat will need daily brushing to help control the shedding and remove any debris in the hair. Bathing is required when your dog is dirty or starts to have an odor. Using a moisturizing conditioner will keep their skin hydrated. If the Pug has a Shih Tzu coat, it will be longer and may require trimming. A professional groomer can give your dog a haircut, along with a nail clip and bath during the session. Brushing the coat daily can help keep it clean and tangle-free. Swelling, redness, and a foul odor are symptoms of this. Your dog will need to see the veterinarian for medication to treat this ailment. They are still prone to certain health problems, though. Here are a few of the most common conditions to be aware of with your Pug Zu. Minor Conditions. Pug Zus are excellent for first-time dog parents as they are playful and friendly, and they are also known for their low aggressive tendencies. Moreover, they are great with kids, which means that they make the perfect pets for families. Some can be the result of multi-generation crosses. What do they look like? In general, Pug Zus have brown eyes and black noses, and a mask on their faces is quite common. They can have a wide variety of coat colors, such as black, white, brown, brindle, or fawn. Some hybrids can look like their Pug side more than their Shih Tzu side and the other way around. Most are equipped with triangular ears that flop down and that are well-spaced apart. This small breed is known for its robust body, which can make the dogs give off the impression that they are sturdier than they really are. Their short limbs might bow at an angle. Pug-Zus look very similar to another popular Shih Tzu mix, the Shichon. This affectionate and funny companion dog weighs in at around 8 to 22 pounds and measures anything between 8 and 12 inches. Do Pug Tzus Shed? The amount of shedding that you can expect if you become a Pug Tzu parent is variable. As previously mentioned, some dogs might have a shorter or a longer coat, and this can directly influence how much they shed. In any case you should take care to brush your dog regularly as well as wash him with a gentle shampoo. Consider using clippers to keep him in a short haircut. What Is the temperament of a Pug Shih Tzu mix? Pug Zus are very sociable, and even if the puppies do have to be socialized as early as possible in order for them to become used to other animals and people, they thrive on human interaction. Pug Zus also tend to suffer from separation anxiety. However headstrong they might seem at times, Pug Shih Tzu mixes respond well to training, especially if they have set routines in place. It is recommended that their owners set up short training sessions that last for up to ten minutes at a time every day. Positive reinforcement and treats will convince your Pug Shih Tzu puppy to behave. How long does a Pug and Shih Tzu mix live? The typical lifespan of a Pug Zu is anything between 9 and 12 to 14 years. How Healthy is this mix? Some of the most common health conditions that a Pug Zu is likely of developing throughout their life are the following: Patellar luxation Some Pug Shih Tzu mix owners might notice that their puppy skips a step every now and then. If this happens, veterinary assistance is required as many Pug Zus can develop patellar luxation, or it can be a genetic issue that they are prone to. Treating this health issue depends on its severity. Hip dysplasia This dog breed is more or less likely to develop hip dysplasia due to the genetic material coming from their Pug side. There is a high possibility that a parent that has hip dysplasia passes it on to its offspring. Skin health problems A Pug Shih Tzu mix can develop several skin conditions, and two of the most common ones are allergies and atopic dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis can be caused by a number of factors that range from dog food to grass. Epilepsy Idiopathic epilepsy can affect some dogs, but not all. If your dog experiences a seizure, immediate veterinary care is necessary. Documenting the seizure might also be required in order for the veterinarian to establish just what type of epilepsy the dog is suffering from. All of these diseases are more or less typical for small-sized dogs. Due to their anatomy, Pug Zus also tend to develop respiratory problems, including sinus infections. Other health issues that can affect this breed are yeast infections, staph infections, and demodectic mange. Some puppies can experience vaccination sensitivity. Make sure to talk to your veterinarian about preventive care and take your dog to the vet clinic for check-ups at least once or twice a year. Furthermore, as they grow old, Pug Zus are known to develop the typical diseases of geriatric dogs, such as arthritis, heart conditions, and even cancer. Regular blood tests and other diagnostic methods can ensure that these health problems are prevented or treated at the right time before they become more severe. How Much is a Pug Shih Tzu? The cost of a Pug Zu puppy can vary a lot depending on several factors. We recommend getting your puppy from a breeder whose reputation is excellent. The Pug Zu can be considered an excellent companion dog. It adapts well to new environments and new people, and it is not particularly challenging to train, either. Motivating your Pug Tzu with treats is easy as this dog breed loves food. In terms of activity levels, you will notice that your Pug Shih Tzu mix does love spending time outdoors and playing fetch, for example. However, compared to many other breeds, it can do well with daily walks that last up to one hour on the whole. If what you are after is a good watchdog, a Pug Zu might not be the best dog breed for you. These dogs are known for being so friendly that they can even take well to strangers. Besides, they do not bark in order to get your attention to alert you of an intruder. Due to their trainability, playfulness, and affectionate character, Pug Shih Tzu mixes are among the best canine companions for people who live in apartments. In this respect, a Pug Zu is not a good, but a great dog. 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Breeds The link has been copied! Get ready to be blown away by the blue hue beauty of the Blue German Shepherd, a rare and captivating canine breed that's bound to steal your heart! Imagine the iconic strength and intelligence of a traditional German Shepherd, but with a mesmerizing twist: a shimmering, silvery-blue coat that makes them stand out like a sapphire gem in a sea of pebbles. But wait, there's more to this extraordinary pup than meets the eye! These blue bombshells are fiercely loyal, intelligent, and hardworking, just like their classic counterparts. So, if you're eager to learn more about this wondrous woofer, buckle up and join us on a fun and enthralling journey as we explore the magical world of Blue German Shepherds. Trust us, you'll be howling with excitement before you know it! This unique variation of the beloved German Shepherd breed boasts a distinctive silvery-blue coat, which is the result of a recessive gene. Their striking appearance still maintains the classic features of a standard German Shepherd, including their athletic build, almond-shaped eyes, and perky ears. Though they share the same breed lineage, the Blue German Shepherd's fur color sets them apart from their traditional counterparts. However, it's important to note that their temperament, intelligence, and working abilities remain on par with those of their more commonly recognized relatives. In fact, these blue beauties are just as capable of excelling in various roles such as police work, search and rescue, and service dog positions. Decoding the Genetics of the Blue German Shepherd's Coat To truly appreciate the Blue German Shepherd, one must delve into the fascinating world of canine coat color genetics. The blue hue in these dogs results from a recessive gene that dilutes the black pigment, causing it to appear silvery-blue. Both parents must carry this recessive gene for their offspring to inherit the blue coat. In German Shepherds, two pigments determine the coat color: eumelanin black and phaeomelanin red. Various genes control the distribution and intensity of these pigments, which ultimately defines the final coat color. In the case of Blue German Shepherds, a dilution gene d impacts the eumelanin, creating their signature blue sheen. It's essential to note that although blue is a non-standard color for the breed, it doesn't negatively affect the dog's health, temperament, or abilities. Since the blue coat is a result of a recessive gene, it is much less common than the standard coat colors typically seen, such as the black and tan, sable, or solid black German Shepherd. The infrequency of blue coat inheritance means that breeders who specialize in this color variation often have fewer puppies available, making them highly sought after by enthusiasts. Despite their scarcity, it's important to remember that these striking dogs still require the same training, socialization, and care as any other German Shepherd. Their rarity should never be a reason to overlook their fundamental needs as intelligent, active, and loyal companions. Exploring Blue Color Variations While the Blue German Shepherd is already a rare and captivating variation, it's important to note that their blue hue can manifest in different shades and patterns. Some Blue German Shepherds may have a lighter, almost silver-blue coat, while others may exhibit a darker, steel-blue shade. This breathtaking array of blue tones is part of what makes this breed so enchanting. Additionally, the blue color may appear in various patterns, including blue and tan, solid blue, or even blue sable. Each of these patterns further highlights the uniqueness and diversity of the Blue German Shepherd, making them truly remarkable in the world of canine coat colors. The Blue German Shepherd Temperament A Blue German Shepherd's captivating coat color doesn't change the breed's inherent temperament, which is characterized by loyalty, intelligence, and a strong work ethic. These dogs are known for their versatility in performing tasks, be it as police dogs, search and rescue workers, or service animals. However, it is essential to note that this coat color does not change the breed's inherent temperament, which is what makes them such a remarkable and sought-after dog. One of the most prominent characteristics of a Blue German Shepherd is their loyalty. These dogs are incredibly devoted to their owners and will do anything to protect them. This trait makes them an ideal choice for families looking for a loyal and affectionate pet that will provide a sense of security. In addition to their loyalty, Blue German Shepherds are also highly intelligent. They are quick learners and respond well to training. This trait makes them a popular choice for police and military work, where their ability to learn and follow commands is essential. Another defining trait of this breed is their strong work ethic. Blue German Shepherds are known for their versatility in performing various tasks, such as search and rescue, service animals, and police work. They are incredibly diligent and take their work seriously, making them a dependable and valuable asset in any working environment. When it comes to raising a Blue German Shepherd, socialization and training from a young age are crucial. Proper socialization helps to ensure that your dog is comfortable in various situations and environments. This, combined with consistent training, will help your Blue German Shepherd develop into a well-rounded, confident, and friendly dog that is eager to please and protect its loved ones. Exercise and Training for Blue German Shepherds As with any German Shepherd, the blue variation requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to maintain their health and happiness. These dogs are highly active and need daily walks, playtime, and training sessions to keep them physically fit and mentally sharp. Activities such as hiking, fetch, and agility training, or a flirt pole can be excellent ways to engage your Blue German Shepherd and channel their energy. Training should begin early and be consistent, as these intelligent dogs thrive on structure and guidance. Positive reinforcement methods, such as praise, treats, and toys, are most effective for training a Blue German Shepherd. Keep in mind that this breed is known for its high intelligence, so challenging them with new commands or advanced training is an excellent way to keep them engaged and eager to learn. Remember, a well-exercised and well-trained Blue German Shepherd is a happy and content companion that will bond closely with their family, showcasing their loyalty and affection. High-quality dog food, formulated for their size, age, and activity level, is essential to support their overall well-being. Always consult with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations and monitor your dog's weight to prevent obesity, which can lead to various health issues. Blue German Shepherds are susceptible to the same health concerns as their standard counterparts, including hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and bloat. Regular veterinary check-ups, a healthy diet, and proper exercise can all help minimize the risk of these conditions and ensure your dog enjoys a long, happy life. Balanced Diet A balanced diet is essential to ensure your Blue German Shepherd gets all the necessary nutrients for optimal health. High-quality dog food, formulated for their size, age, and activity level, is recommended to support their specific needs. Avoid giving them table scraps or human food, which can be harmful to their health. Always consult with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations, as some dogs may require a special diet due to health conditions or allergies. Weight Management Obesity is a common issue among dogs and can lead to various health problems, including joint issues, diabetes, and heart disease. Monitor your Blue German Shepherd's weight and adjust their diet and exercise routine accordingly to prevent obesity. Follow the recommended portion sizes on the dog food label, and avoid overfeeding or giving too many treats. Regular Veterinary Check-ups Blue German Shepherds are prone to certain health conditions, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and bloat. Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to detect any health issues early and get prompt treatment. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations on preventive care, such as vaccinations, parasite control, and dental cleanings. These dogs have a double coat, which consists of a dense, insulating undercoat and a protective outer coat. Regular brushing, at least two to three times per week, is necessary to remove loose hair and minimize shedding. During shedding seasons , daily brushing may be needed to keep your home hair-free and your dog comfortable. In addition to brushing, routine grooming should include regular teeth cleaning, nail trimming, and ear cleaning to prevent infections and maintain overall hygiene. By establishing a consistent grooming routine, you can keep your Blue German Shepherd looking and feeling their best. To groom a Blue German Shepherd, follow these simple steps: Brush their coat two to three times per week with a slicker brush or pin brush to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Clean their teeth two to three times per week with a soft-bristled toothbrush and dog toothpaste to maintain good oral hygiene. Trim their nails regularly to prevent discomfort and joint problems. Clean their ears with a cotton ball or soft cloth and a dog ear cleaning solution to prevent infections. The Impact of Blue Color on Health The blue coat color in German Shepherds is a result of a recessive gene, and it does not inherently affect the dog's overall health. Blue German Shepherds are just as healthy and capable as their traditionally colored counterparts when it comes to their physical abilities and temperament. However, it's essential to choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health of their dogs over coat color. Reputable breeders will ensure that their breeding dogs undergo necessary health tests and screenings to minimize the risk of genetic health issues in their puppies. As long as you choose a responsible breeder, the blue color should not impact the health or well-being of your Blue German Shepherd. Interpreting the Significance of Blue in Various Dog Breeds The blue coat color is not exclusive to German Shepherds; several other dog breeds also exhibit this captivating hue. In most cases, the blue color results from the same genetic factors: a dilution of the black pigment eumelanin. Some dog breeds where blue coats can be seen include: Australian Cattle Dogs. This recessive gene dilutes any black pigment on the dog including coat color, nose leather, foot pads, toe nails, lips, etc. It also affects their eye color. Blue pups have a beautiful light gray coat as babies, as they age however is usually darkens up quite a bit, the ones that darken up are called "steel" blues. To the untrained eye, they can be mistaken for regular blacks. There is also "Powder" blues, they tend to lighten up in color and always stay a very noticeable gray color. Powder blues are not seen very often. A blue pup with sable markings We have a couple blues and a few dogs who carry the blue gene. We choose these dogs first and foremost because their temperament, structure and health aligns with the goals of our breeding program. A beautiful unique color is just icing on the cake of an already exceptional dog. Our non-traditional color lines have some of the highest hip ratings in the US! We have produced non-traditional colored GSDs that compete in obedience, agility, nose work, etc. I personally love the non-traditional colored German Shepherds. These colors are been in the breed since the beginning and our foundation girl Rose just happened to be a blue! They are very loyal to their trusted humans, but wary of strangers until they have been properly introduced. Their high intelligence makes them easy to train, although they can be strong-willed at times which can make them a bit stubborn. However, stubbornness can be an issue if you do not display a no-nonsense approach to training. So keep it simple, firm, kind and consistent with all your pups. They really love praise so adding some tasty snacks will definitely help get you get more success during training sessions. German Shepherd's intelligence makes it easier to train them. Still, they need consistent training when they're young, so they understand their boundaries, especially with the protective behaviour because you don't want them to harm anyone or anything without your consent. Inconsistent training can lead them to think they're in charge. It's best to be firm right from the get-go so their dominant behaviour is kept under control. Another dimension to having a smart dog is that you'll need to keep them busy. If you don't, their intelligence will go towards bad things like digging holes in the yard, chewing through things like your favourite shoes or your favourite pair of boots. They're very curious dogs and will get into almost anything they think will be fun to chew on. Keeping them busy with training, walks, or playtime can help curb that behaviour because it gives their minds something else to focus on instead. Puppies, as you know all too well can be a little accident prone during house training so take your time and keep on top of it. They respond best to positive reinforcement rather than punishment so consider using some dog pee-pee pads indoors for the first few weeks just until they become more confident and reliable about house training outside. The Steel Blue Panda German Shepherd loves to explore so give them lots of new toys to interact with and things to use their intelligence. These pups also love a good tug-of-war, but be careful — they tend to win! They have an internal coat of fine hair with an external layer of more coarse hare. Each year in fall and spring they shed their undercoat so expect additional grooming seasons during these times of yeat. Additionally you will find their fur has an uncanny ability to get everywhere, under the sofa, behind the television and even in your shoes! You will also need to brush the back of your dog's legs, his stomach and his chest to avoid getting mats in their fur. You should take care that you do not brush over any tangles which you can feel and if they are too bad then cut them out with scissors rather than tugging on them with a brush. For their feet, only use a soft brush or a piece of cloth as it is easy to injure their foot pads. If you see your steel blue panda german shepherds eye's are clogged with dirt, then take a clean damp cloth and gently rub them clean. While cleaning your dog's teeth, make sure that you are gentle with their gums and mouth area as they are rather sensitive. If you have any problems brushing your pups' teeth then talk to your veterinarian as they will know what products you can use that will be safe for your dog. You should also check their nails as the Steel Blue Panda GSD tends to go through a lot of physical exercise and as such, they do grow very quickly which could result in overgrowth if not properly cut. If your pup seems uncomfortable or is limping then you should see a veterinarian as it could be due to overgrown nails. When grooming your dog, if you find that he starts itching and licking himself more than normal then his skin may be irritated. If this occurs, call your vet immediately because the irritation might be the sign of an allergy or parasite problem. This is due to the combination of their rareness, their beauty, and demand. Because of this high price tag it is advisable to contact your local German Shepherd rescue in order to find a Blue Steel Panda pup that needs a good home if possible. Blue steel panda shepherd breeders are not always reputable which means that you need to be cautious when buying your pup and do your research on them. Not all breeders are out for just the money and there are many that do in fact care about their dogs. A reputable German Shepherd breeder will be involved with the community and their breed, they will also be very active in the local German Shepherd club — so keep an eye out for them at any events and activities. They should ask you questions about your life and not just demand to know what type of home you have and whether you have children or not. A good German Shepherd breeder will take back any puppies they have bred, even if you are no longer interested in keeping them; this shows that the breeders genuinely care about their dogs and their new owners - so please keep this in mind when buying a pup from a breeder. A good breeder should be happy to have you as a potential customer and be available for advice even after the sale has been made. The worst case scenario is that the puppy you buy has health problems which its original owner did not inform you about; in this case, it can be difficult to legally do anything about it. They are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia which is common in large breeds, but can also suffer from seizures, eye problems such as cataracts and retina degeneration, blood-clotting diseases, bloat, and cancer. The most common health issue that GSDs suffer from are allergies which can range from being mildly irritating to life threatening. Some are just allergic to certain types of food or grasses but there are some that have multiple allergies at once. The best way to help your pup is to check in with your vet if your pup displays any allergic symptoms. If they don't get enough exercise, it can lead to weight gain and be detrimental to their health. They're very energetic dogs, so you can take them on walks as long as the weather permits because they love the outdoors. You can also take them out to play fetch or Frisbee since they are brilliant dogs. You can also try agility training if your dog's interested in that sort of thing. It might sound like a lot of work, but it will be good for them, so they stay happy and healthy. As with any breed, you should always ask the breeder about the health of their parents and grandparents to ensure that they do not suffer from any hereditary diseases. If you notice that your dog is behaving oddly then it may be a sign of health problems and you should take them to a veterinarian as soon as possible. You should also be aware of all the symptoms and what could potentially cause them; this means keeping a journal of your dog's daily activities and taking note of the following: -If they are each time more tired than usual or breathing heavily -If there is a change in their stool or if they lose weight suddenly -If they are limping or avoiding certain movements -If their fur is dryer than usual, if it falls out easily, or if its full of dandruff Size. Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. It's true - there are German Shepherds that are blue. In fact, German Shepherd Dogs come in various colors and also in a lot of different color patterns too. Others say that the blue colour is simply a gene mutation, and as such the blue German Shepherds should never be bred from, and overtime the gene should be bread out of the species completely. The blue German Shepherd, technically, a diluted Black Shepherd with 2 recessive genes. The Dd dilution gene affects coat colour in the main, but can also change the colour of eyes and noses. All coat colours and patterns are controlled by a set or group of genes that work together. In standard German Shepherds you will see descriptions and breakdowns that speak of the A genes, which control the black and red colouring in the dog through the release of melanin, and this affects the generic base colour and variations. However, the colouring of the blue German Shepherd is controlled by a different gene, the D gene spoken of earlier. All genes come in pairs, and it takes the presence of the big D and little d pair to produce the blue German Shepherd. The big D produces full strength coat colour and is the dominant gene, and the little d produces a dilute colour, which is the recessive gene. For the Blue Shepherd to be created he needs two copies of the diluted recessive gene, one from each parent, in order to have the diluted blue fur. If both parents have blue fur color their offspring will have it also however it is also possible for the color to appear in regular black and tan German Shepherd Dogs if both parents have the recessive genes. In addition to the above, the Blue German Shepherd takes three variations in blue colour, they come in blue and black, blue and sable and blue and tan, and again it is all dependent on the mix of different genes. Additionally, the blue German Shepherd can also be a variety of lighter and darker blues. Steel blue is the darker shade, and powder blue is the lighter of the two. It can be difficult to identify a steel blue on his own, but when you stand him next to a black German Shepherd, you can easily tell the difference in colour. How do they look? If you've never seen one of these dogs just imagine that everywhere there is black on the GSD normally, that you now see kind of a dusty grey colour. In some cases the blue might look kind of dusty, like someone spilled flour on the dog's coat but then in other cases it might be more of a darker gunmetal colour. Although it is rare and frowned upon by the AKC don't let the blue colour scare you away. A healthy blue German Shepherd is a very handsome animal and has all the same loyal and intelligent traits as regular colored German Shepherds. Many owners who have an unfavourably coloured German Shepherd have suggested that their pups face colour discrimination in events even in competitions where color should not be judged. The males will weigh between 65 and 90 pounds, and they will measure 24 to 26 inches in height from paw to shoulder, also known as the withers. The females will weigh between 50 and 70 pounds and will measure 22 to 24 inches at the withers. Additionally, it is common for the blue German Shepherd to have lighter coloured eyes, such as light blue, golden brown or yellow compared to the darker eyes of normal colored German Shepherds. Again, this is controlled by the recessive genes explained above. Because of their appearance, the blue German Shepherd is often mistaken for a blue Malinois, or with yellow eyes can often look similar to a dark grey wolf. They are super affectionate with their immediate family and enjoy a cuddle on the sofa and lounging around home. The blue German Shepherd is known for their confident and courageous personality. If properly trained and socialized their natural guarding tendencies work great in a home environment. Blue German Shepherds can also be aloof with strangers, or outsiders of the pack if improperly socialized but if raised correctly they are lovely, loyal dogs. The blue German Shepherd, like any other German Shepherd, is a medium energy dog and requires up to 60 minutes of exercise a day. High intensity exercise that tests their mental abilities as well as their physical are their favorite. Your dog would also require mental stimulation throughout the day, such as playing interactive games with his you, patrolling the yard, or taking part in training sessions. Because of their guarding tendencies early socialization is key to a happy hound and household! They are working dogs, and they like to pull if they are not trained properly. We also recommend crate training from a young age. Unlike other breeds, such as the French Bulldog, the colour blue is not indicative of health issues or problematic personality traits. The diluted gene is often linked to health issues in other breeds, such as Colour Dilution Alopecia in Weimaraner, but the blue German Shepherd is not known to suffer any diluted colour related health issues. Simply put, the blue German Shepherd is simply a colour variation, and their health is exactly the same as a traditional coloured German Shepherd. Elbow and Hip Dysplasia is an abnormal formation in the elbow and hip joints which is prevalent in larger breeds of dogs. Over time this formation can cause pain in their joints and can often lead to crippling arthritis in older dogs. Because German Shepherds are susceptible to bloat, it is advised to spread food across several sittings during the day. The exact amount of food will vary on the size of your dog and their activity levels throughout the day. Grooming The blue GSD often has a medium length outercoat with a dense undercoat. Due to the thick undercoat, they are heavy shedders. To keep their coat nice throughout the year you will need to brush them 2 or 3 times a week. During shedding season you will need to brush them every day. You should wash your GSD every 6 to 8 weeks to keep the coat clean and help with shedding. Specialist dog shampoos and shedding products help make managing the coat easier. It is possible for blue German Shepherds to have a long coat but it is very rare. Because their colour is more on the rare side, you may end up paying a slightly higher premium for this colour of the breed. These dogs are rarer than their tan and black saddle siblings i. This can make it difficult to find one to buy. German Shepherds are larger dogs, and can have large litter sizes. With an average of eight puppies in a litter; a blue German Shepherd puppy may show up unexpectantly. If you would prefer to adopt, the German Shepherd Club of America has a list of available rescues and rescue centres all over the country. Adopting A Blue German Shepherd On the other hand, if you are considering rescuing a German Shepherd, then the American German Shepherd Rescue Association has listed rescue centres dedicated to this breed and you may find some blues that need a home. Finishing Up Blue German Shepherds make great family pets. They are fun, intelligent, trainable, affectionate, loyal and protective. If they are socialized from a young age, they are great with children and other pets and will be a lovely member of the family for years. Naturally, all dogs have their own quirks that make them unique, just like all humans, and a blue GSD will be no different. Generally, however, German Shepherds are intelligent and fun to be around and love to spend hours playing in the garden with their family. If you do adopt one of these beautiful pups then it might be wise to let your neighbours know so that they think you have a stray wolf in your yard! For more information about the blue German shepherds, you can consult different social networks of groups responsible for the upbringing and care of the GSD, like the American Blue Bay Shepherd Association. Sign up for promotions, news, discounts, and the chance to win prizes for you and your German Shepherd E-mail Address. Blue German Shepherds are not sky-blue or even navy blue. They are just diluted black German Shepherds with entirely inactive D genes. When this gene is active, it introduces full black color. Geneticists express an active gene with a capital letter and an inactive one with lower case. However, genes exist in pairs, and even a single D in the pair introduces the dominant all-black color. Here are the gene pairs a dark GSD can have. DD — Full black coat. In other words, if we treat blue GSDs as a breed, we must look specifically at all-black German Shepherds , which are often working lines. Technically all GSDs should have been working line dogs. Working line dogs can be born blue, making them look quite important. And they are acquired with the same motivation as a show line dog: to have a dog that the owner finds visually aesthetic. However, one can make the case that blue GSDs are bought with even purer intentions. Watch This NOW! This means such a dog is bought out of pure love and a genuine, deeply personal appreciation of his looks. They can, however, participate in other events such as agility, scent work, and IPO. Blue German Shepherds are even more popular amongst enthusiasts because of their seemingly magical fur with a bluish-grey tinge, making them a sight to behold. Although they are working line dogs in every other aspect, their stunning coloration sets them apart and is the primary reason behind their popularity. But ultimately, they are liked for their exceptional temperament, obedience, and intelligence when trained right. The average GSD and the blue German Shepherd do not exhibit any stark differences except their coat color. They are the same breed with the same characteristics. The most common coat colors for average German Shepherds are black and tan, but black and cream, black and red, black and silver, and bi-color combinations are also present. Blue German Shepherds Are Rare Although the blue German Shepherd carries the same characteristics and temperament as the standard German Shepherd, they are much rarer because of the odds of two recessive dd genes pairing up. Both parents must be carriers of the recessive gene for a blue GSD puppy to be born. Moreover, because blue is not allowed in the show ring and is still considered a fault, even though the AKC has recently recognized this coloration, most breeders do not intentionally breed this color. Although the blue coat appears like a washed-out black or shade of grey, it can have different variations, including solid blue, saddle, bicolor, or sable. Light powder blue or dark steel blue are some other color variations. The color does not seem intimidating or scary but rather quite magnificent. The coat color of a German Shepherd Dog is a variation determined by genetics. There are two types of genes in action; the first indicates the color of the fur, and the other decides the presence or absence of markings and their distribution on the dog. The inheritance of the double recessive gene creates a blue German Shepherd, which also contains a dilution gene working as a modifier at its center. This dilution gene affects eumelanin the very dark pigment in black coats , and thus the blue color can have four pattern variations; Solid blue, blue bicolor with minute tan points , blue and tan, and blue sable. Common misconceptions about this breed include that they can come in a blue and black pattern, which is impossible genetically. The dilution genes that cause blue coloration will affect all-black coloring, not just certain areas. Some blue German Shepherds have blue eyes , but not all of them. Even if a puppy is born with blue eyes, the trait may or may not be permanent. Since the dog possesses a recessive gene that decides his eye color, he may grow to have the usual dark eyes. Many will have light or amber eyes. They have a medium or a long double coat with a dense guard layer and a softer undercoat to keep them warm. They have a dome-shaped head with a long, square muzzle and erect ears with solid necks. Many of their characteristics are often said to resemble their wolf ancestors. A standard-sized male blue German Shepherd grows 24 to 26 inches or 60 to 66 cm tall and weighs around 65 to 90 lbs or 29 to 40 kg. Females grow to be 22 to 24 inches or 55 to 60 cm tall and weigh about 50 to 70 lbs or 22 to 31 kg. Since color is not a factor in determining the size of a German Shepherd, you can expect all breeds to be around this size. German Shepherds are medium to large dogs and hardly ever make good apartment pets as they require considerable space. Blue German Shepherds Are Expensive Although breeders should charge different prices for different colors, they charge higher for blue German Shepherds because of their rarity and unusually striking color. Since tan and black are more common and celebrated in German Shepherds, most breeders opt for this popular variation instead of breeding for the unique blue color. The rarity of this variation adds to its price. One of these is whether they are pedigree or mixed breed. Blue German Shepherds are purebred. They can appear in a litter of purebred pups and are as genetically pure as the others. They are identical to other GSDs except for their blue coats caused by a recessive gene and are recognized by the American Kennel Club but disqualified from the show ring. Still, some breed purists believe they should never be bred because their blue color is merely a gene mutation. Others believe that despite their unusual color, they should still be allowed to enter the show ring. Since their blue color is only a variation of coat color, it does not indicate the inclusion of any other breeds in the line. Although some intentional breeders may be available, they would be pretty rare. The only way to guarantee a blue GSD is to mate two blue parents with two recessive dd genes. Solid black dogs possess DD or Dd genes , which are not suitable for breeding blue puppies. Send a quick sample and determine if your pup is mixed or if his color is a purebred genetic rarity. Some people assume that if a dog has two recessive gene units, he might have undergone severe inbreeding. Some suspect the blue GSD has specific genetic defects, which is untrue. The color holds just one meaning; that the gene that caused it was recessive. This variation possesses characteristics and traits similar to other types of German Shepherds. In all observable settings: blue German Shepherds are no different from standard black GSDs in anything but color. And all black GSDs are no different in temperament from any other type. Among the myths about blue GSDs is that they get angry quite quickly. However, they do not have anger issues and are incredibly loving dogs. However, they have strong, possessive traits, and their owner-pleasing quality can make them anxious and even destructive if left alone for long periods. But these, again, are working-line GSD traits, albeit under biased scrutiny. Since they were the guardian of their flock in their herding days, their possessive nature is not uncalled for. Although this can be an undesirable quality sometimes, you can manage it with socialization and positive reinforcement from a young age. Blue GSDs are very family-oriented dogs and make excellent pets. They are known for being alert and watchful and consider protection their duty. They are also highly trainable and loyal, making them the perfect family dog, good watchdogs, and working dogs. They tend to be aloof with strangers, but you can rectify that with extensive socialization and proper training. They also have separation anxiety , but there are many preventive steps that you can take to ensure their well-being when left alone. Remember, blue German Shepherds are medium to high-energy dogs like other variations of German Shepherds and require at least 90 minutes of exercise a day filled with highly interactive games or high-intensity activities. They also need mental stimulation during the day because of their high intelligence. No substantial evidence indicates any health issues or problematic personality traits that come with this coloration. Although the diluted genes can cause color dilution alopecia in Dobermans and some other breeds, blue German Shepherds do not suffer from this issue. Therefore, their color is a mere overall variation as their health and temperament match other GSD variations. Although it may indicate certain traits in the health of other breeds, it is not the case with blue GSDs. Even though considered a healthy breed, they suffer from specific health problems like all German Shepherds. Elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia are the most common health concerns. Dysplasia is a disease of a malformation of the joints seen in many large dogs and causes joints to become painful and worsen over time, resulting in lameness. Since blue GSDs are bred from a single bloodline, they face other genetic mutations. These concerns include degenerative myelopathy, a slow non-painful degradation of the spinal cord, and congenital heart defects such as aortic stenosis, pulmonic stenosis, and patent ductus arteriosus. Even mini-German Shepherds exhibit the same energy level and need as much activity as a standard GSD. Blue GSDs may live in apartments if you provide them with the required stimulation and space to explore. Still, landed properties and homes with more space are better options. Dedicated training and socializing are unavoidable for these dogs as they are prone to separation anxiety and aggressiveness if chained up. They are significant responsibilities, and you should only take them in if you can be assertive and naturally like large dogs. The rarest color of a German Shepherd is Isabella. They are also known as lilac German Shepherds. Their color is due to the recessive combination of blue and liver from their parents. The liver gene prevents all black pigment giving the dog a diluted coat color. Isabellas typically have hazel or light blue eyes. Can a full-blooded German Shepherd have blue eyes? Full-blooded German Shepherds can have blue eyes, but it is extremely rare. The blue eye color is due to a recessive gene that needs to be inherited from both parents, and it is considered a genetic mutation. While many dog owners find the trait attractive, most breeders consider it a fault. Can you show a blue German Shepherd? A blue German Shepherd cannot participate in conformation shows, as they do not adhere to the German Shepherd breed standard of the AKC. However, blue German Shepherds can still compete in other types of dog shows, such as obedience and agility competitions. You must be able to handle and control them, possess the patience for consistent training and reinforcement, have free time for daily exercise, and own an ample enough living space. Although blue German Shepherds are extremely intelligent, loyal, magnificent-looking, devoted, and protective dogs, they are heavy shedders with extensive training and care requirements. Therefore, you should not take them in for merely aesthetic purposes as they are not just a fashion statement and come with significant responsibilities. Related Posts You May Like:. The blue coloration of a blue GSD is determined at conception. This suppression, or dilution, is expressed over the entire body wherever black would have been present, and no true black will be seen at all. Like nearly all puppies, a blue GSD will have blue eyes at birth. While most puppies will gradually change eye color, usually to a shade of brown, between the ages of 4 and 16 weeks, many blue German Shepherds will retain their pretty blue eyes throughout life. This is not always the case, however. Amber, green, gold and light brown are all possible, as are varying shades of blue. The tongue of a blue German Shepherd will be pink, though blue spots or splotches on the tongue are fairly common. These patches of tongue color usually appear after the dog is fully mature and are often seen in herding breeds, such as Shepherds. The Blue Bay Shepherd is a new breed still in the developmental stages. The hopes of the breeder behind Blue Bays was to produce a large breed dog with a wolf-like appearance, deep blue coloration, robust health, high trainability, gentle and affectionate disposition, and a loyal, eager-to-please nature. Judging by the dogs produced thus far, she has been hugely successful in her endeavors. You can read all about the Blue Bay Shepherd here. Males typically are slightly taller and heavier than females. The breed standard states that there should be definite differences between the sexes with males having a masculine appearance and females showing feminine features. At birth, blue German Shepherd puppies will weigh about 1 pound each, and by the end of their first week of life, their weight has usually doubled. By the time they are ready to leave their first home at approximately 8 weeks old, males will weigh around 15 — 20 pounds and females should be between 10 and 18 pounds. Fun fact: German Shepherd Dogs can have anywhere from one to 15 pups per litter, though the average is about 8. American Kennel Club Standards dictate that GSD males stand at 24 — 26 inches tall at the withers highest point of the shoulder and weigh between 65 and 90 pounds. Adult female GSDs will be slightly smaller at 22 — 24 inches tall and weighing between 50 and 70 pounds. Of course, some blue German Shepherds will not conform exactly to breed standards and my fall well below or far beyond these specifications. The bulk of the growth will occur during the first year, especially in terms of height. However, full size may not be reached until the age of 24 months, and some GSDs will continue to grow well into their third year of life. If ever there was a dog of whom it could be said has strength of character, the GSD is it. Courageous and brave are words often used to describe a German Shepherd Dog, but this breed is so much more than that. They are often reserved in their behavior and take their assigned tasks and roles seriously, but they can be playful at times as well. GSDs are incredibly intelligent and tend to remain watchful and alert at all times, rousing from sleep at the slightest sound. See our Mental Stimulation Guide here. Once commands and jobs are learned, they will not easily be forgotten, and the desire to please their owners is evident in their obedience and eagerness to learn. A certain aloofness is to be expected with this breed, but shyness should not be seen in well-bred GSDs. Proper training and socialization are critical to ensure that aggression is only seen when absolutely necessary. Overall, you can expect a blue German Shepherd to exhibit the same traits as any other GSD — a loyal, stable, obedient family dog with the capacity to defend loved ones when necessary. Are Blue German Shepherds Friendly? When thoroughly and properly socialized as puppies with continual reinforcement provided into and through adulthood, blue German Shepherds will be quite friendly with their family and known acquaintances. However, this may not be the case when meeting new people. A well-bred GSD will not be naturally hostile or aggressive, but aloofness is something the breed is noted for. This is not a dog who will happily bounce up to a stranger, lick his hand, and fall on the ground for a belly rub. Rather than making the first move to befriend a stranger, a GSD is more likely to confidently remain still while allowing a stranger to approach and offer friendship. The attempts at offered friendship will likely be received with grace and dignity, but it may be quite a while before a blue German Shepherd views the newcomer as a special friend. With their families, blue German Shepherds are quite affectionate and loving. They have a strong desire to be near their loved ones as much as possible and are usually quite gentle with children. Some GSDs will enjoy cuddling, others may prefer to quietly remain by your side, and others may demonstrate their love through their unending devotion. No matter the means by which they demonstrate their affection, make no mistake that a blue German Sherman is totally committed to his family and would stop at nothing to keep them safe. However, they are typically slow to warm to strangers and will be rather aloof with those outside their close circle of friends and family. Strangers should not expect to be shown any more affection than perhaps a polite wag of the tail in greeting. A well-bred blue German Shepherd Dog should not be aggressive. That said, any dog has the potential to be aggressive under certain circumstances. Dogs who have been bred irresponsibly were not properly socialized when young, or who routinely suffer abuse may show signs of aggression, either spontaneously or after warnings have gone unheeded. As a fiercely loyal dog, the blue German Shepherd may respond aggressively when a situation warrants it, such as whenever he feels his family is in immediate danger. This is why GSDs are so valued as guard dogs. They will willingly put their lives on the line in order to protect and defend the ones they love. A blue German Shepherd who was bred responsibly, raised in a loving manner with plenty of training, and was socialized to a wide variety of people, situations, sights, sounds, and other animals should not be a dangerous dog by any means. There is one considerable exception. On average, breeders will ask slightly more for blue-colored GSDs because they are not as common as the traditionally colored dogs. Blue German Shepherd Cost Adults Adopting an adult blue German Shepherd will cost significantly less than purchasing a puppy… if you can find one up for adoption. Sometimes breeders will offer for adoption an older blue German Shepherd who has aged out of their breeding program. Table of Contents.

Currently, GSDs have eleven dog kennel club-accepted coat colors. Pure white, solid blue, merle and brindle are coat colors that some regard as faults and sadly, are slowly coming to extinction. This article will focus on Brindle-Colored German Shepherds , how the color was achieved, its history, where they can be found and why do we have fewer sightings of this coat color pattern. What is a Brindle Colored German Shepherd? Brindle is a coat color pattern in German Shepherds that looks like stripes on their fur or coat, along their legs. Though the pattern is similar to tiger stripes, it appears to be more subtle and has irregular shapes and streaks of color. The color markings are usually darker or slightly lighter than the base coat. It is commonly seen as a black stripe on a reddish brown or tan base coat. Brindle Colored German Shepherds have four different brindle color patterns depending on their dominant and recessive genes. It has the most solid brindle color amongst the four types of brindle color. After careful observation and analysis, it was found out that two of his sons were brindle colored. It might be strange to some as to how he got two brindle colored sons. In genetics, brindle is one of the three variants of the dominant black gene. Brindle is a separate mutation that allows the agouti gene such as sable, tan points, recessive black and tricolor to come out. However, the result causes brindling or streaks of the agouti color. This explains why brindle colored GSDs have the dominant black gene. They are very active and need a lot of exercises, just like standard GSDs. Healthwise, they can have inherited diseases and other health issues, too. And just like other GSDs, they can be straight backs or sloped-backs. Their intelligence is equal to other colored GSDs. Therefore, with proper training, diet, and care, these Brindle Colored GSDs are set to become great working dogs and loving family pets. Since brindle is considered as a washed-out color, Brindle Colored GSDs are disallowed from being included in the conformation rings. Looking for a Brindle Colored German Shepherd is like looking for a needle in a haystack. One needs to understand the history of the GSDs in order to fully grasp the development of this dog breed and how some colors like brindle, was severely affected. For some unknown reasons, liver, white, brindle and blue merle were chosen to be eradicated. In an attempt to breed a GSD similar looking dog, the Dutch Shepherd was created and standardly having brindle colored only to be distinguished apart from GSDs. Nowadays, Brindle German Shepherd can be found in rescue centers or shelters. Some are also left by breeders who messed up a breeding program and ended up producing a Brindle GSD with health or physical issues. So, interested adoption applicants should be ready to embrace everything and must not expect too much. Looking for an ethical breeder is also a good option for one to have a healthy Brindle Colored German Shepherd puppy. How much does a Brindle Colored German Shepherd cost? The cost for Brindle Colored GSD will always depend on the breeder and the demand for this color pattern. This can go higher if the Brindle Colored German Shepherd puppy has papers proving its pedigree, line, breeding history, and working title. Conclusion Brindle might not be recognized as one of the standard GSD color variations, but this should not hinder breeders from continuing to nurture German Shepherds having this unique color pattern. Is the Brindle German Shepherd dog the lost pattern? The answer will be yes and no. Yes, it will soon become a lost color pattern if GSD breeders and enthusiasts will not do something to promote its beauty and continue breeding them not only for their rare color but also to breed them ethically. Training and proper care is crucial for GSDs whatever coat color they have. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. Lifespan Sociability As the name implies, German Shepherds are herding dogs. German Shepherds are eager learners but can be a little stubborn, which some owners may find challenging. Socialization is essential for these pups because they have a powerful jaw and a heritage guarding livestock and people. Improperly socialized German Shepherds may be suspicious of people and animals alike. Brindle Coating Has Distinct Genetic Markers In genetics, color patterns can be a bit more finicky to determine than simply colors. The brindle pattern is marked in genetics by a specific mutation of the dominant black coloring gene. This variation of the dominant gene allows for the recessive coloring gene to show through on the fur and results in the brindle patterning. A post shared by Totem totem. Of these, at least two were observed to have the brindle genetic mutation! This means that brindle coloring was documented early on in the German Shepherd family tree. The S. The reasoning is not stated but seems to be cosmetic rather than for health reasons. According to the S. V, white, liver, brindle, and blue merle colorings were all chosen for eradication. There Are Four Types of Brindle Coating The brindle pattern is distinct, with irregular streaks of darker or lighter color through the base color. The four patterns of brindle coating are black brindle, brindle-tan, brindle-sable, and brindle- gray. Black brindle, or reverse brindle, appears to have light stripes on a dark coa. Brindle-tan dogs have a lighter coat with darker streaks. Brindle-sable dogs have a darker coat color on the head and back only. Brindle-gray dogs may only have Brindle points on the feet and face. Pale, washed-out colors and blues or livers are considered serious faults. A post shared by Our Sweet Fur Babies tajiasangelsgsdlegacydobermans 6. The pattern was explicitly chosen to distinguish the breed from the German Shepherd Dog. Conclusion The German Shepherd is one of the most distinct and beloved dog breeds. There seems to be no reason that the brindle patterning could not receive similar recognition. This brindle term is also known as tiger stripes. There are times where two dogs with a brindle coat can look different. The markings or stripes are usually darker than the undercoat of the coat. You may see a black streak on a tan or reddish base coat. The Brindle German Shepherd will always be a great curiosity among traditional German Shepherd breeders. Four types of the brindle color As mentioned above, four types of brindle color depend on the recessive and dominant genes. This disparity in brindle colors arises from a change in the base coat color gene. Gray brindle German Shepherd The brindle German Shepherd with a gray or silver base color can appear with very subtle or even absent pattern markings. Brindle-Sable German Shepherd The sable brindle German Shepherd has a brown or sable base color that looks like a more solid brindle. They may have darker fur on the back and head. It can have a coat that can range from black, tan to blue, from isabella to liver with brindle markings. Black Brindle German Shepherd This black brindle German Shepherd typically have recessive genes that can appear solid black, blue, liver, or Isabel. A black brindle German Shepherd appears to have light stripes on a dark coat base. You may notice that 2 of the base colors arise from generic alterations of the eumelanin black gene. Simultaneously, 2 of the base colors come from genetic modifications from the red pheomelanin gene. According to certain German Shepherd breeders, the first name certified as a German Shepherd was Horand Von Grafrath, previously known as Hektor Linkshrein, and he had 33 children. After extensive analysis and observations, they discovered that 2 of his sons had a brindle color. Producing a brindle coat pattern requires complex genetic processes. It is more difficult to breed a dog with this brindle color and more difficult for people who consider brindle to be not a standard color than breed a dog with a basic or standard color such as red or black. There are two types of central color genes that all canines inherit: pheomelanin and eumelanin. Pheomelanin controls primary red and red tones that can range from pale ivory, liver, brown to a burnished reddish. Pheomelanin is only responsible for controlling the color of the coat. Eumelanin is in charge of controlling basic black and any color in that spectrum. It can be seen as pale blue, silver, and even absolute black. Eumelanin is also responsible for controlling the eyes, nose, and skin color. Brindle-colored German Shepherd puppies are no different than other German Shepherds. They require many exercises and are very energetic dogs. They can inherit certain diseases or health problems as in the other standard GSDs in health. They can have the sword inclined or straight, and they are very intelligent dogs like the German Shepherds of other accepted or standard colors. If you train them properly, care for them, and feed them the correct diet, you can have GSD brindle dogs that are ideal for work, intelligent, and very affectionate for the whole family. Unfortunately, some clubs are not very fond of this type of brindle color because they consider it a failure. They regard brindle coat color as a faded color. In this way, you can understand the development of this breed and why colors like the brindle are seriously affected. They did this because they were normalizing the GSD breed. Looking for a GSD brindle can be difficult because colors like white, liver, blue blackbird, and brindle are the chosen eradication. To create a dog that bore a similar resemblance to the German Shepherd, the Dutch Shepherd was bred and came standard with a brindle color. These are now available to German Shepherds at shelters or rescue centers. Many breeders also leave them because they ruined a breeding presentation and produced an SD Brindle with health problems or physical health problems. People who want to adopt Brindle German Shepherds should accept everything regarding this coat color. You should look for a breeder who is ethical so that you can find healthy tabby German Shepherds. It can be time-consuming and generally expensive work, but it will be in your best interest to have a coat color that is thought to be extinct. A brindle German shepherd is expensive, but it will depend on the breeder and the demand for this color. You may also like:. Apart from those, specific colors are either unregistered or are considered a coat pattern. One such coat pattern is brindle, a coat pattern best described as striped or marbled. This pattern is similar to the stripes on a tiger but is more subtle with irregular streaks of color and shapes. Brindle German Shepherds are so rare that there is no singular standard to their actual physical appearance. However, the most commonly seen coat has blacker markings on a reddish-brown or tan base coat. Their dominant and recessive gene pool decides four different brindle color patterns. They are among the rarest types of German Shepherds and belong to the dominant black gene series. Some people even claim that they are now entirely extinct, which is not the case. It is unclear where the first brindle German Shepherd originated. Horand sired many pups, and very few pictures black and white exist of them. Most experts who have analyzed those photographs believe that at least two of the pups had the brindle color pattern. This makes the brindle coat color pattern one of the originating patterns of the German Shepherd breed. But how did Horand Von Grafrath, formerly known as Hektor Linksrhein, birth two brindle-colored pups? From a genetics perspective, brindle is one of the three variants of the dominant black gene. It is also a separate mutation that allows the agouti gene to appear, such as sable , tan points, recessive black, and tricolor. The result causes the agouti color to form streaks or brindling, which explains the presence of a dominant black gene in brindle-colored dogs. We can trace this color pattern back to Europe when specific colors and color patterns like blue , liver, white , and merle German Shepherds were imported to America. These colors were; blue, liver, white, and the patterns — brindle and blue merle. A brindle GSD is not very different from its counterparts except for its color. Just like other types of German Shepherds , they require lots of physical and mental stimulation. They can be straight-back or sloped back, depending upon their breeding. Male brindle German Shepherds are usually 24 to 26 inches tall and weigh about 66 to 88 pounds. Females weigh approximately 48 to 70 pounds and are 22 to 24 inches in height. Their typical life span is like that of other German Shepherd varieties — between 10 to 13 years. They are also highly intelligent like other varieties, and you can quickly train them. Brindle German Shepherds also suffer from specific inheritable health concerns just like all the other types. Brindle German Shepherds possess a specific coat pattern of alternating strips of color different from the base color. The exact pattern on each dog depends upon his genetics and is thus variable. Two brindle German Shepherds can even have completely different coat patterns. Below are the brindle German Shepherd color patterns: Black Brindle Brindle Sable Brindle Gray A black brindle German Shepherd is also known as a reverse brindle and possesses recessive genes of solid black, liver, light buff, or blue. They have lighter colored stripes on a darker base coat. Brindle-tan German Shepherd Dogs have brindle-colored markings on usually black, blue, isabella, or liver-colored coats. Brindle-sable German Shepherds possess the richest brindle color amongst the four types and typically have a darker coat color only on their head and back. Brindle-gray German Shepherds, in contrast, have brindle markings that appear either only as brindle points or do not appear at all. Despite these genetic variations, their coat color is a hot topic for debate and controversies. Some will say that brindle is a non-standard color for German Shepherds and partly due to the close association between brindle coloration and Pit Bulls. Others believe that the brindle gene is genetically unstable. Thus this color pattern is always going to be rare amongst mainstream breeders. They were inserted into the standard because lighter dogs were easier targets in times of war. Finding brindle German Shepherds is quite a task. German Shepherd history books show that many originating breed colors were eliminated by the German Shepherd Dog Club also known as SV in the standardization process of this breed. Liver, white, brindle, and blue merle colors were chosen to be eradicated because as dogs of war, darker colors and patterns were less of a target. The German Shepherd Dog Club considered the brindle color pattern to be unsuitable in wartime Europe, and thus breeders made no efforts in the following years to increase the numbers. Today, brindle GSDs can be abandoned in rescue shelters or centers by owners interested in mainstream German Shepherd colors. A few are also left by unethical breeders who misbreed and end up with brindle shepherds with health or temperamental issues. Intentional breeding is very rare as they have been sidelined over the years. Many see this color pattern as a genetic mutation that makes it even harder for breeders to produce brindle dogs. The brindle gene is one of the three variants of the dominant black gene the other two are dominant black and non-solid black. Specifics of this gene are mostly a mystery, but it is speculated to result from a spontaneous mutation. Looking for a brindle German Shepherd is not an easy task, and interested individuals are most likely to return empty-handed. A better option is finding an ethical breeder that breeds healthy brindle-colored German Shepherd puppies. But since they are scarce to find, their price can be much higher than anticipated. Similarly, a brindle puppy with papers proving its pedigree, line, breeding history, and running title will have a much higher price. It is evident that prices mainly depend upon breeders. Because of their high demand and low availability, some unscrupulous breeders often breed and raise brindle pups inadequately to make money quickly. This takes a toll on their health and makes them prone to illnesses. The official coat colors listed in the German Shepherd official AKC breeding standard are black , black and tan, black and cream, black and red, black and silver , blue, white, liver, grey, and sable. However, the German Shepherd Dog Club of America who has control over the written standard within the AKC , does not want to list colors and patterns separately. Exotic patterns such as brindle are frowned upon by many breeders and some dog clubs, which reduces their popularity. However, a few ethical breeders focus their breeding programs on the development of such rare coat-color patterned dogs. You can find such breeders, but you may have to pay whatever price they charge. If you are looking to take a brindle German Shepherd in as a pet, adopting is a good option as adoption fees are much lower. Brindle German Shepherds are good family dogs. They get along with children and other pets and are incredibly intelligent and thus highly trainable. They also make good guard dogs as they innately have protective instincts. Their temperament traits are the same as all other GSD types. These dogs are highly versatile and have an uncanny ability to learn new tricks. Their easy-going temperament makes them easier to train than other breeds. They are eager to learn and, if socialized and trained correctly, make great companions. They are somewhat aloof to strangers, and some may even be fearful of new people or other dogs or animals. You can prevent this by socializing them early to become familiar with new people and smells and sounds. A lack of socialization can make them aggressive and view other animals and people as threats, leading to destructive behavior. In contrast, they grow up to be calm and well-balanced and behaved dogs when trained well. Since they require appropriate mental and physical stimulation, you can quickly devise exercises or training routines that you both can follow, such as jogging, running at the beach, hiking in the woods, fetching a ball, or playing certain sports. Exercising along with your dog develops a friendly bond of trust with him. Brindle GSDs are very loyal dogs, and once this bond is established, it can never be severed. Apart from being good family pets , German Shepherds are also great for agility training, lure coursing, flyball, tracking competitions, Schutzhund training, and search-and-rescue work. The brindle German Shepherd is also known as a mouthy breed because they use their mouths due to their herding heritage. Therefore, it is normal for them to chew on anything that fits in their mouth. But you do not have to allow it as you can train them to channel their instincts appropriately and safely. They are also very social and would be the happiest when with family. These loving and affectionate creatures will put their own lives at risk to protect their loved ones. Some people believe that their coat color correlates with bad temperament, thereby making them unfit for families. The Center for Animal Genetics says that their color is a genetic factor determined by color pattern genes and does not impact their obedience, intelligence, or even working ability. They possess traits and a temperament comparable to other standard colored German Shepherds. Pros of Brindle German Shepherds Unique Appearance: Brindle German Shepherds have a unique and majestic appearance that makes them stand out from other types. They have a wolf-like appearance and are relatively sturdy and well-built with a proportioned body, making them visually appealing. They also possess a double coat, a bushy tail, and erect ears, making them look intimidating yet cuddly. Versatile Dogs: Brindle German Shepherds are versatile dogs with incredible intelligence, loyalty, and bravery and are among the top obedience competitors. They can be trained through consistent reinforcement-based training and mentally and physically stimulating exercises to excel at various activities. They possess an incredible cognitive, physical, and emotional capacity and are great at police work, therapy, scent detection, agility, and service work. The German Shepherd breed ranks third in intelligence globally. Very Protective: Brindle German Shepherds have an alert nature and are incredibly loyal to their guardians, and make great protective dogs. The behavior of dogs usually depends on the education and environment they are subjected to. Consequently, you can train them to be friendly and fierce. Highly Active and Energetic: These dogs thrive on regular exercise and possess medium to high energy drive. Not giving them enough mental and physical stimulation can adversely affect their health and behavior. If you are not an active person, they are not the right fit for you. But if you lead an active lifestyle, they can be your best companion and even motivate you to exercise or burn those extra calories. If you develop a strong bond with them, they can quickly become your best friend and would love you no matter what. They may look intimidating on the outside but are deeply caring dogs on the inside and would always put you first. Cons of Brindle German Shepherds Have Heritable Health Concerns: The Orthopaedic Foundation for Animals reports that all German Shepherds are prone to several heritable health concerns, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and von Willebrand disease, to name but a few. Since they are not bred according to specific breeding standards, it is widespread for these dogs to develop such conditions. It is essential to make sure that your dog has health-tested parents before adopting. Their rarity adds to their price as well. Finding healthy brindle dogs in shelters and rescue centers can be even more challenging than looking for serious breeders. There is nothing in the breed standard that disqualifies their exotic coat color pattern from being show dogs. The confusion lies in that no brindles have yet entered the show ring as it is presumed by many owners that they will be marked down by the judges. Can Become Greedy: Although they have well-balanced behavior, they can still overeat and even become somewhat gluttonous. Their eating habits need to be monitored carefully to manage their weight. You may also need to eradicate bad eating habits to prevent them from becoming fussy eaters. You should also portion their daily food intake into two or three meals to prevent bloat GDV. However, they should not be adopted simply for their aesthetic appeal or their rarity. You should only get a pup if you treat it like a family member and companion and raise it according to their needs. Related Posts You May Like:. Breed Info The tan and black-saddle coat is what the German Shepherd is most recognized for. But not many realize that they come in many other coat colors—some more common than others. There are uncommon colors like silver and blue. Even more rare are others, including the brindle German Shepherd. A brindle German Shepherd has a coat that is best described as tiger-striped or marbled. Theoretically, the base color could be tan, black, or sable. Even more rarely, it could be silver, blue, or liver. For all dogs, coat coloring is determined by two pigments called eumelanin and phaeomelanin. By default, eumelanin appears as black but can be modified by certain genes to become blue or liver. On the other hand, phaeomelanin controls the color red. However, the brindling or striped patten will only appear if the dog carries the K locus. This is related to the A locus, which is responsible for the sable GSD coat. The only way to breed the brindle coloring in purebred GSDs is to have at least one brindle parent. Even so, a brindle puppy is not guaranteed. This is because the brindle allele Kbr is recessive to the dominant black allele Kb. So, not only should one of the parents be brindle but also the other parent should at least carry the recessive Kbr allele. Brindle German Shepherds are now incredibly rare. GSD enthusiasts believe that the brindle coat was common among the working dogs that the breed founder, Max von Stephanitz, developed. Some believe that it was purposely bred out of the GSD gene pool as a means to distinguish it from similar dogs like the Dutch Shepherd , which is most commonly brindle. This makes it even rarer than colors produced by genetic abnormalities. In fact, enthusiasts of the breed say they are already extinct. According to the Aringsburg Kennel , no brindle GSD has been registered with a kennel club since .Their brindle coloring should not affect any other physical attributes and would definitely have no effect on their health or temperament. Knowing this, a brindle German Shepherd would definitely be a rare-looking companion. However, the requirements for its care and rearing would be the same. They would need high-quality food, regular grooming, early socialization , plenty of exercise , and tons of opportunities for mental stimulation. Are Brindle German Shepherds Purebred? Brindle German Shepherds that were produced by two purebred parents are technically purebred. Despite not being recognized by the AKC, a brindle GSD that can be proven to be purebred would definitely cost much more than a typical puppy of the same breed. Its rareness will definitely contribute to its value. However, enthusiasts of the breed believe in reviving this variation if only to ensure that the breed stays true to its history. Another unusual GSD variation is the blonde German Shepherd , which breeders do not yet know for sure how to reproduce. Finding a puppy The German Shepherd is an intelligent, athletic, and brave dog breed. These dogs are common as loyal, affectionate family pets, and as working dogs, particularly alongside the police and military. Many German Shepherds have black and tan coloring. But, is it possible to find a purebred brindle GSD? What is a Brindle German Shepherd? The German Shepherd breed harks back to the late s. They were bred by a man named Captain Max von Stephanitz, who aimed to create the ideal all-round herder. Over time, the breed developed, evolving from the original herding role to other working roles, such as a guard dog, and a military dog. Brindle refers to a color type, a pattern made up of alternating stripes of light and dark coloring. In fact, some of the earliest GSD ancestors had stripes! Can a German Shepherd be Brindle? According to the AKC breed standard, brindle is not an accepted color or pattern for the German Shepherd breed. In fact, one of the earliest German Shepherd ancestors, a dog named Horand von Grafrath, born in , had some brindling on his coat. But, many breeders will stay away from GSDs with this coloring, instead aiming to breed puppies that align with the official breed standards. What Causes Brindle Coloring? All dog coat colors come from two pigments: black eumelanin and red pheomelanin. The genes that cause brindle coloring are found at the K locus. But, the gene kbr is recessive to the genes that cause black coloring K. So, a dog must receive two copies of the gene to have stripes in their coat. So, some German Shepherds may have very small amounts of brindling, and others may have more extensive markings. Is a Brindle German Shepherd Rare? Brindle German Shepherds are not very common. There are two main reasons for this. Firstly, as we already know, the genes that cause coloring are recessive. If a dog inherits only one copy of the gene, they will have black fur. They will only express as brindle if they receive a copy of the gene from each parent. Secondly, brindle is not an officially accepted German Shepherd color. So, many breeders will seek to avoid it in their breeding lines. Instead, they will usually stick to officially accepted colors, such as black and tan, grey, and even white. Are Brindle German Shepherds Friendly? When trained and socialized well from a young age, a German Shepherd can be a friendly, affectionate dog. However, they are also likely to be energetic, loyal, and highly intelligent. This can mean that they are easily bored, and need to make their own fun if not properly stimulated and exercised. On top of this, if not socialized well a GSD can show aggression and territorial behavior. This includes people wearing different clothing, people of different ages, in vehicles, in new environments, and so on. Good socialization before 12 weeks is a great way to reduce any aggression in the future. Are Brindle German Shepherds Purebred? DNA tests are a great way to find out if your German Shepherd is purebred. There are also resources like pedigree databases that you can look at. Purebred brindle German Shepherds are uncommon because this is not an official shade and is caused by recessive genes. Instead, it can be easier to find a mixed breed with this fur, such as a German Shepherd Pitbull mix. There are also similar purebred breeds whose breed standards include this pattern of coloring, such as the Dutch Shepherd. Are Brindle German Shepherds Healthy? The genes that cause brindle coloring are not yet linked to any health issues. These include: Musculoskeletal problems. Rare GSD coat colors include white, black, blue, and brindle. The pattern is somewhat equivalent of tiger stripes, although it is less obvious and has asymmetrical forms and splodges of color rather than symmetrical ones. In most cases, the color marks are either darker or a little bit lighter than the base coat. Irresponsible breeding of brindle GSDs can lead to low-quality puppies. So, before buying, ensure that the puppy is healthy and the breeder is of good reputation. But this option is not of good use because of the rarity of this breed. Still, you can try to find them by checking at the local shelters and rescue centers. If you are lucky, you can discover precisely what you are looking for. However, you should ensure that you are adequately prepared for any medical or physical concerns that may develop later on in the life of your dog due to overcrossing. The main reason behind GSD brindle patterns is the mutations in normal gene interactions. Usually, alterations or mutations in genes Kbr gene are responsible for brindle coat coloration in German Shepherd Dogs. Because Kbr is a recessive gene, it is only possible for puppies to have brindles in their coat if they inherit two copies of the gene. If a GSD gets the dominant black gene, which functions at the same locus as the brindle gene, the dog will not develop a brindle coat. Breeders have a more challenging time producing brindle German Shepherds since a genetic mutation causes this color pattern. As a result, finding brindle German Shepherds for sale might be challenging. The characteristics of brindle-colored German Shepherd puppies are almost identical to those of other GSDs. They are similar to normal German Shepherd Dogs in that they are pretty energetic and require a great deal of physical activity. They only differ in coat color and pattern. In terms of their health, they are susceptible to hereditary illnesses and other health problems. In addition, much like other types of GSDs, their backs can either be level or sloped. They are just as smart as any other colored German Shepherd Dog. Therefore, with the right kind of training, food, and care, these brindle-colored German Shepherd Dogs have the potential to become wonderful working dogs as well as affectionate companions for families. Sadly, some kennel groups do not strongly prefer washed-out colored German Shepherd Dogs and even consider it a flaw in the breed. There is a prohibition on brindle-colored German Shepherd Dogs competing in conformation events because of the perception that brindle is a color that has been washed out. Conclusion The fact that brindle is not considered to be one of the conventional color variants for GSDs should not discourage breeders from continuing to develop German Shepherds with this distinctive color pattern. Brindle GSDs are amazing dogs. Dog Pricing Welcome to Dog Pricing, your comprehensive source for all things canine! As the team behind this thriving hub, we're dedicated to researching and presenting the best and most reliable information to dog lovers everywhere. Our mission is simple: to help you become the best dog owner you can be. 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And, along with all the joys, you may have a few new puppy jitters too. I get it! In other words, I am over the moon for Doodle dogs. Now what? Choose your veterinarian and make a new puppy appointment. As your Goldendoodle becomes a senior, your vet may suggest twice yearly well check visits. Your veterinarian is an essential part of helping your puppy live the happiest, healthiest, and longest life possible. But how do you choose a veterinarian? For a veterinary clinic to become AAHA accredited, they are assessed on standards for veterinary care. Also, you can ask friends, family, and other dog parents for recommendations on vets, check out veterinary websites, and visit the veterinary offices. Schedule a new puppy vet visit. When we called our veterinary office, the care team asked for some basic information about the puppy so they could get her records set up. This way we could rest assured that our puppy was in good physical health, on track for vaccinations, and had the proper testing for parasites and worms. For example, our new puppy had hiccups. Finally, we could ask our vet about the proper nutrition for our puppy, how much to feed each day, and get expert answers on puppyhood — everything from tips on potty training to puppy socialization. The list of veterinary specialty services sounds much like the specialty services that we receive as humans. Why do I bring this up? With so many advanced veterinary resources available—much like humans use insurance to cover the healthcare costs—you may want to investigate pet insurance. Since there are so many insurance options to research, doing your homework ahead of time makes sense. Also, from my research, the younger your puppy is when you enroll, the lower your monthly payment will be. Alternatively, if you are unsure about insurance, you may want to consider putting money aside each month to cover unexpected emergencies or life-saving procedures that may be down the road. Start planning your new schedule. What will your schedule look like when your new puppy comes home? Who will be available to care for your puppy? Every family has different daily routines, so arranging a schedule looks different for everyone. If there is more than one family member in the household, perhaps you can flex your schedules. Prepare your home and start new habits. Dropping backpacks by the door or leaving socks on the floor is real life. Yes, many Goldendoodles—and other Doodle dogs—are notorious sock thieves. Scratch grapes and raisins off the shopping list because they are a hazard for dogs. Clear the coffee table a. Buy the lidded trash cans for the bathroom that are dog-proof. Make sure your kitchen trash cans are not where puppies can get them. In addition to preparing your home, you may want to puppy proof your car too. I know a lot of people put packs of sugarless gum in their car console. Order your new puppy supplies. Crates and puppy toys and water bowls and leashes and collars. The list of puppy supplies is long. For a complete list of new puppy supplies, please check out my new puppy check list. You can also visit our Goldendoodle Supplies store. Here you will find puppy supplies that we have used and recommend. Determine you puppy space—a designated puppy area. This one was big for us. When our new puppy first came home, we thought we had a puppy space the family room with puppy gates to block off the other rooms determined. So we MacGyvered a solution by sectioning off a smaller area of the family room using our new three-panel wooden dog gates and our L-shaped couch to make a play area. For example, we could easily observe when our puppy started to wander away from us, lost interest in toys, or started sniffing. These were all her signs that she was just about to go potty! Set up your puppy supplies. For example, if you bought a new crate, assembling it now will be easier than when you have a curious puppy helping you. Rest up! New puppies have tiny puppy bladders and need to go out at night to go potty. Choose a designated area outside for puppy potty training. Determine where your puppy will sleep. More than likely, your puppy is used to sleeping next to puppy siblings, listening to puppy sounds, and feeling the warmth of her mom and puppy brothers and sisters. Since dogs are so social, for our puppy, we wanted to provide reassurance that we were nearby. We decided that our new furry family member would be safest in a crate. But the crate would be placed next to the bed so that our puppy could feel close to us—her new pack. Plus, we could comfort her with the sound of our voices or a gentle touch. Also, we placed a Snuggle Puppy in the crate. I thought our puppy might see the Snuggle Puppy as a play toy rather than a calming toy, but no! Our puppy loved it! This is a day for heaps of love and time and attention. Here are some tips to help the day go smoothly. Before going into your home, allow your puppy the opportunity to go potty. Before you walk through the door with your new puppy in your arms, allow her a little time to explore her new puppy potty spot in your yard or green space. Even as a puppy, our week-old Goldendoodle was a little speedster, so we knew we had to keep her on leash. Start small. As mentioned earlier, rather than giving our puppy the ability to roam our home immediately, we started small. So on her first day home, we created an even smaller area using our couch and our dog gates. This allowed us to be able to sit with our new Goldendoodle puppy and also let her explore and sniff within a small space. Also, we could watch her like a hawk as well as enjoy spending time with her. We had a couple of puppy toys for her to play with and a small dog bowl of water in her improvised play area. Bond with your fur baby! Give your dog heaps of your love, attention, and time. If you take away just one tip from this article, this is the one! In fact, multiple research studies have shown that when you bond with your dog, your dog releases oxytocin—the love hormone. Our puppers are counting on us to protect them from canine diseases like parvovirus.Expect your puppy to need you. Your puppy is going to need you, want to be with you, and count on you. Puppies have years of biology telling them that being part of a pack is security. They want you. Before that big day, you can plan ahead by puppy-proofing your home, getting the puppy supplies bought, and more. I hope that even one or two of these tips will help make your day even happier. And, by being prepared, I hope any new puppy jitters quickly become new puppy joys. Click Play to Learn More About the Lovable Goldendoodle History of the Goldendoodle Goldendoodles were first bred in to be guide dogs, but the breed gained popularity among breeders during the s. The idea for the crossbreed was inspired by the successful breeding of the labradoodle, which is a poodle and Labrador retriever hybrid. As one of the most popular domestic dog breeds in the United States, the golden retriever was an obvious choice for crossbreeding with the delightfully hypoallergenic poodle. The first three dogs to earn the American Kennel Club Obedience Champion title after its introduction in were golden retrievers, which proves their loyalty and ease of trainability poodles were originally bred as retrievers and water dogs, and both the breeds score in the top 5 of the smartest dog breeds. These genes pass on to the goldendoodle, so owners can be assured of an athletic, intelligent and obedient companion. Goldendoodle Care Though low-maintenance, goldendoodles require adequate exercise, grooming, and training. This social breed thrives with its family and friends inside. The fur of a goldendoodle varies, but most of the time, their fur is in between the two extremes when it comes to grooming. They respond best to positive, reward-based training and will gladly show off their tricks for a tasty treat. Exercise With average to above average energy levels, goldendoodles require daily exercise and love to go for walks, runs, hikes, and swims. Their playful nature and retriever genes make them great fetch partners, too. Owners should aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise each day including walking, running, swimming, and tackling agility courses. To keep their skin and coat healthy, they need a moisturizing bath every few months. Depending on the dog, a goldendoodles may grow long hair over its eyes or between its toes and appropriate trimming is required. Training Goldendoodles are obedient, athletic, and smart so they take well to training and are eager to please. Agility comes to them naturally and courses are a great place for goldendoodles to burn energy and create a strong bond between owner and companion. They may inherit the health problems associated with poodles and golden retrievers, but it is possible that the hybrid minimizes health problems due to their genetic diversity. Goldendoodles often do exhibit this enhanced health, but only when its parents are purebred golden retrievers and poodles who have been bred responsibly and have no hereditary health issues. Hip dysplasia : Poodles and golden retrievers are both prone to hip dysplasia, so a hip exam is highly recommended to keep a potential issue in check. Eye disorders : Eye issues are also a common problem among poodles and golden retrievers. Setting up an annual eye exam with your veterinarian is a great idea for all goldendoodle owners. A dry kibble high in protein and fats does the trick. Dry kibble is helpful in removing plaque and promoting general dental hygiene. Corn, wheat, soy, and dairy are common canine food allergies. Goldendoodles are susceptible to food allergies, so it is a good idea to minimize these ingredients in their diet. Go for a grain-free diet with whole vegetables. Where to Adopt or Buy a Goldendoodle Check with your local animal shelter or rescue group to see if there's a goldendoodle available for your home. Big Fluffy Dog Rescue also includes goldendoodles in the type of dogs that it rescues. The Goldendoodle Association of North America provides a list of breeders on its website. Goldendoodle Overview Smart and fairly easy to train Good for those with pet allergies Friendly dogs that are good with kids and other pets Cons Needs at least 30 minutes to an hour of daily exercise Doesn't do well being left alone for long periods of time Susceptible to food allergies, requiring higher-quality, allergen-free food What Is a Designer Dog Breed? Like goldendoodles? You might also enjoy these breeds:. By Patricia Kaowthumrong. Reviewed by Barri J. Morrison, DVM on Dec. Since then, the dogs have been coveted companions that are beloved for having low-shedding qualities, a clever-yet-highly-trainable personality, and a patient family-friendly nature. The standard large-size, wavy-haired Goldendoodle can grow to 20—24 inches tall and about 50—90 pounds, but also come in smaller sizes as Mini Goldendoodles. Caring for a Goldendoodle The Goldendoodle is bred to exhibit the best qualities of both the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. Goldendoodles are very intelligent and do well in obedience classes and agility training. While they can live happily with other dogs, cats, and children, the pups can be prone to separation anxiety. Goldendoodle Health Issues Goldendoodles are generally healthy dogs that can live 10—15 years, but they are prone to common health conditions of the Poodle and Golden Retriever breeds. Discomfort is commonly displayed by pups via limited mobility, which can include reduced activity, difficulty going up stairs, or even difficulty just getting up. Heart Disease Goldendoodles are genetically predisposed to heart disease, particularly a congenital variation called subvalvular aortic stenosis SAS. The heart must work harder than normal to pump blood through this narrowed area, causing heart muscle abnormalities, says Whittenburg. Grain-free and boutique brand foods should be avoided. Glaucoma is an eye disease involving increased pressure. Symptoms pet parents should look out for include bulging eyeballs, watery discharge, redness to the whites of the eyes, and dilated pupils. The condition can be treated with long-term medication. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to blindness. Cataracts is a common condition in dogs that causes clouding in the eyes and can lead to vision loss. Cataracts can be treated with surgery but, left untreated, can lead to complete loss of vision. What To Feed a Goldendoodle A balanced diet will help your Goldendoodle maintain a healthy weight and avoid obesity-related health conditions. That means ensuring your pup eats the proper amount of high-quality dog food and always has access to fresh water. First bred in the late s as guide dogs, the Goldendoodle—a crossbreed of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle—became a popular household pet in the United States during the s. To help reduce the risks of heart disease, avoid feeding your dog grain-free and boutique brand foods, Whittenburg says. Behavior and Training Tips for Goldendoodles Goldendoodle Personality and Temperament If socialized properly as puppies, Goldendoodles can certainly live in homes with other canines. Goldendoodles are energetic dogs that require 30—60 minutes of physical exercise per day, which can encompass a combination of everything from walks and runs to hikes and playtime. Pet parents should avoid leaving their four-legged friends at home alone for too long. Goldendoodles are energetic dogs that require 30—60 minutes of physical exercise per day. Overall, Goldendoodles are known for their gentle temperament, making them ideal for households with kids and elders. Goldendoodle Training Goldendoodles are known for being intelligent and easily trained, so they excel in activities like agility and obedience classes. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, using treats to reward good behavior. If there is a behavior your puppy exhibits that you may think is cute while your puppy is small, you need to think ahead and determine if this behavior will be acceptable from an adult dog. Consistency is the most important tool for training a puppy in their first year and beyond. Each family member needs to use the same techniques and commands so as not to confuse your puppy. It is important to remember that a puppy associates a reward or a disciplinary action with its behavior in the past 3 seconds. Waiting longer than 3 seconds to reward or discipline is very confusing to a puppy. You cannot stop this behavior, but you can certainly direct your puppy to chew upon acceptable items until this phase passes at about a year of age. The only way puppies know how to play is the typical wrestling, biting, chasing, tackling, pulling, and nipping they do with littermates. In the absence of littermates, you and your family suddenly become the littermates. Repeat this same disciplinary action a total of three times in a row. Every now and then, a particularly feisty puppy will become more excited by this disciplinary action and need a more distinct disciplinary measure. This next action needs to be initiated quickly. This will be uncomfortable for your puppy. When behavior meets with uncomfortable consequences, the behavior will stop. With all this being said, the absolute best remedy is for you to arrange daily play dates with other puppies or young dogs. The bottom line is that your puppy needs to have active playtime each day. Jumping — Your puppy will jump on you to get your attention. This may seem innocent while your puppy is small, but Grandma may not appreciate being knocked over by the full grown untrained dog. Make sure you do not reward the puppy for the act of getting down as this will enforce the behavior of jumping up only to be told to get down for a reward. This is not a sign of aggression unless you allow this to go undisciplined over time. You need to actively discourage any and all growling directed at you. If your puppy growls at you when you get close to the food bowl, immediately remove the food bowl and feed the puppy out of your hand. Do not stop brushing until the puppy accepts this without growling. Each puppy needs to learn its place in the pecking order of a family. Obviously, they need to be the lowest on the totem pole. If allowed to be boss, growling is a normal thing for a puppy to exhibit when showing its dominance. Each family member must establish they are boss. This includes young children who are timid or fearful of the puppy. Remember that any behavior you allow as a puppy is then extremely difficult to curb later in life. If you do not wish to have your adult dog on the furniture, do not sit on the sofa holding your puppy. If you do not want your grown dog to grab your pant leg, etc. Leash Training — Training your Goldendoodle puppy to walk on a leash without pulling will take some time. Be patient and read our complete guide to leash training here. Buying a Trained Puppy — You can opt to have your puppy purchased at Fox Creek Farm trained by a professional trainer. Buying a trained puppy can save you a lot of time and benefit the entire family. Please visit our board and train services page for more information. Pet Insurance — We always recommend that any dog owner have a good quality pet insurance. Choosing the best pet insurance will take you a bit of time to learn about the coverages and fees associate with the brand and your particular dog. Spend some time with our blog articles on pet insurance linked above to determine what is right for you and your furry friend. No one really knows exactly when the first goldendoodle was created, but this mixed breed began finding popularity among breeders in the late s. It is believed that the success of the labradoodle led to the conception of the goldendoodle. F1Bs are created by crossing a first-generation F1 goldendoodle with a purebred poodle or golden retriever. Usually, breeders choose the poodle as the purebred parent in order to achieve a coat that is less irritating for people with allergies. F1B goldendoodles usually have a curly coat that is more reminiscent of the poodle than the golden retriever. The color of the coat may take after the golden retriever in hue, but doodles can come in many different colors. These dogs have floppy ears and may have either curly hair or long straight hair on their muzzles. They come in a variety of sizes, too! The poodle itself comes in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. There is even such a thing as a teacup poodle, which is the smallest of the four sizes, though the AKC does not recognize this size. Because the goldendoodle is not purebred, there is no uniform size that these dogs are expected to be. There are no guidelines. However, you can find goldendoodles in all size categories except for giant simply because purebred poodles exist in each size category. So, if you want a smaller dog, look for smaller parents and vice versa! Wavy and curly coats tend to be more common, but anything is possible as this is a mixed breed. F1B goldendoodles make wonderful family dogs as they are super friendly and do well with children. They are affectionate and enjoy spending time with their families. They definitely have what is often considered the ideal temperament for a dog! Are F1B Goldendoodles Affectionate? F1B goldendoodles are generally a great choice for families with kids. They also tend to be gentle and tolerant. This is because these types of pets are seen as prey animals. The goldendoodle is bred from two hunting breeds. If you do have small pets, make sure to keep them safe from your dog. Are F1B Goldendoodles Aggressive? F1B Goldendoodles are not at all aggressive! They love meeting new people and are great with other dogs. Of course, every dog is an individual, and socialization during puppyhood is vital. Dogs that do not receive proper socialization are far more likely to become fearful or aggressive as adults. We would consider them the type of dog that barks to alert their owners. As we said before, every dog is an individual, and some dogs may bark more than others. Some doodles may only bark at strangers, whereas others may bark at animals in the yard or cars on the street. Are F1B Goldendoodles Intelligent? F1B goldendoodles are considered an intelligent mixed breed because they are quick learners and have superb observation skills. In fact, they are so good at observing that many people believe they can even tell what emotions their owners are feeling! If you want a dog that is easy to train, you should definitely consider the F1B goldendoodle. This breed learns quickly and is eager to please. Their affection and loyalty often result in them being quite obedient once trained. Because they are so easy to train, hiring a professional is not necessary. However, we always recommend that people join a group class of some sort as it provides opportunities for their dogs to learn how to ignore distractions and listen instead. Though doodles are already eager to please, using reward-based training will motivate them even more. Using positive reinforcement is the best way to train a goldendoodle. Are F1B Goldendoodles Energetic? F1B goldendoodles of any size have a fair amount of energy. After all, they are born of two hunting breeds that need to have the endurance to spend hours in the field. Luckily, many goldendoodles enjoy playing games like fetch. Fetch is a fantastic way to help your dog burn off some energy. Of course, doodles will also love joining you in activities like walking, hiking, swimming, or even biking make sure to talk to your vet before involving your dog in any strenuous activities. They may try to get your attention and get you to play with them, bark more often, or turn to take their boredom out on something else. Regardless of size, goldendoodles can do well in apartments as long as they get enough exercise. Apartment living may be easier with smaller goldendoodles than with larger ones. If that can be done, then goldendoodles can live anywhere. Many goldendoodles will bark to alert you of the presence of a stranger in the vicinity, which can make them good watchdogs. This is because the goldendoodle is just far too friendly. They will be more likely to greet intruders with wagging tails than anything else. F1B goldendoodles do make good service dogs. This is in part because of their eagerness to learn. Service dogs must be smart and obedient, and goldendoodles are prone to being both. They have an easy time providing the support someone needs because of their stellar observation skills. How to Care for an F1B Goldendoodle F1B doodles will need at least weekly brushing, and most owners prefer to keep their coats trimmed. Otherwise, they require the same type of care as other dogs: they need their teeth cleaned regularly, nails clipped as needed, and ears checked for infection regularly. Like all goldendoodles, F1Bs also require a decent amount of grooming. Their coats need to be brushed at least once per week, but more frequent brushing is required for longer coats. Most doodle owners prefer to have their coats trimmed regularly so that they do not need to brush them as often. If you like the look of a grown-out coat, then you will need to brush almost daily to prevent the hair from clumping and matting. Do F1B Goldendoodles Shed? How much a doodle sheds really depends on which breed it takes after more: the poodle or the golden retriever. If the F1B has a purebred golden retriever crossed with an F1 doodle as a parent, then you may expect it to shed more. The doodle would not shed very much in this case and may be a good option for someone with allergies who hopes to own a dog. Do remember, however, that no dog is truly hypoallergenic. An F1B goldendoodle should eat the highest quality food you can afford. The best dog foods follow AAFCO guidelines, have been formulated by a veterinary nutritionist, and have undergone feeding trials. To determine how much to feed your doodle, you can start by checking the recommended serving size on the bag. Otherwise, you can calculate the number of calories your dog should eat on a daily basis. You can do the math yourself or use an online calorie calculator. Because F1B goldendoodles inherit genes from both golden retrievers and poodles, they are at risk of inheriting the diseases of both breeds. Doodles who are similar in size to a standard poodle or golden retriever are also at risk for bloat. Smaller doodles may be at risk of inheriting patellar luxation and Legg-Calve-Perthes. Because we have to consider the health issues of two breeds instead of one, it may seem like the F1B goldendoodle is at a higher risk of inheriting problems than its purebred parent. There are some studies that suggest purebred dogs are more likely to inherit 10 out of 24 diseases, with mixed breeds only being more likely to inherit 1 out of the 24 the other 13 diseases were just as likely to be inherited by mixed breeds as purebreds. However, you could sink hours into this debate and still feel unsure about which side is right. Instead of getting caught up in debate, we suggest that if you want to add an F1B goldendoodle to your family, you should choose a responsible breeder who health tests their dogs. These tests ensure that the parent dogs are without disease that they could pass on to their offspring. F1B goldendoodles live about 10 to 15 years on average, though smaller doodles may live a year or two longer. Are F1B Goldendoodles Expensive? Be cautious if you see a doodle being sold for a low price. These dogs may have been bred by puppy mills or backyard breeders who simply want to turn a profit but do not care for the health of their dogs. Always make sure to ask breeders numerous questions so that you know they have health-tested their dogs and are caring for them properly. However, how frequently you want to do this is up to you. Some people have their doodles groomed every 8 to 10 weeks, whereas others may prefer more frequent grooming. If you wanted to save money, you could learn how to trim your doodle yourself. Similarly, smaller dogs may be less expensive when it comes to their kibble and even medical expenses. Therefore, if you want a more budget-friendly doodle, consider a smaller size. We know you already know how to use Google to search for puppies. What are your credentials? You should learn about how long the breeder has been in business as well as how familiar they are with F1B goldendoodles. Have the parent animals undergone health testing? Ask to see these tests. Can I see where the dogs are kept? Can I meet the parent? How do you socialize your puppies? Socialization is important for puppies to become friendly and confident. Are the puppies up-to-date on vaccinations? Do you offer a health guarantee with a contract? Some breeders guarantee the health of their puppies: should your puppy come down with a serious illness early on, the breeder may offer to reimburse the purchase price of the dog or even take the puppy back. This will also help you avoid purchasing from breeders who are irresponsible. What do you require of potential adopters? Many breeders want to make sure their puppies are going to homes where they will be treated well and kept for life. Therefore, breeders may ask a number of questions about you, your situation, and your experience as a dog owner. It will not be easy to find an F1B goldendoodle to rescue. While the goldendoodle mix itself is popular enough to have rescues dedicated to it, the F1B is an even more specific mix of golden retriever and poodle. This is why they are harder to find at shelters. Even if it is clear that the dog is a doodle, the shelter may not know if the doodle is F1, F1B, or some other generation of doodle. Still, if you are interested in adopting, the best place to look will be a rescue dedicated to saving and rehoming goldendoodles specifically. Are F1B Goldendoodles Purebred? F1B goldendoodles are not purebred dogs. Goldendoodles in general are considered designer dogs because they are a mix created by crossing two purebred dogs. However, the F1B goldendoodle is a cross between a doodle and usually a purebred poodle though in rare cases, the purebred parent is a golden retriever. Either way, the AKC does not recognize these dogs, and there is currently no standard for breeding them. Because F1B goldendoodles are so friendly, loving, and obedient, they tend to be a great option for first-time dog owners. However, as long as someone can offer enough exercise, they should have no problem raising and caring for an F1B goldendoodle. Goldendoodles are playful, energetic, and super friendly. This makes them great family dogs who get along swimmingly with kids. By now, you probably have an idea of whether or not the F1B doodle is the right dog for you or not. By Dr. They are known for their excellent temperaments and for being great for people with allergies. They make great guide dogs, service dogs, therapy dogs, or just plain old family pets. But there are many things that you need to do to make sure that your puppy is happy and healthy. This article is a complete Goldendoodle Care guide for puppies. How do care for a Goldendoodle puppy? There are many things that you need to do to make sure that your puppy is healthy and happy. Vet visits for vaccines and spay or neuter Provide a high-quality diet Behavioral Training Monitor for signs of Illness By following these steps, you will have your Goldendoodle puppy started on the right track for a long healthy, and happy life. This Golden Doodle Care guide will provide you with the needed resources when you have a question on how to raise your Goldendoodle puppy. How To Care For A Goldendoodle A Visit to the Vet When you get your Goldendoodle a crossbreed between a Poodle and a Golden Retriever that has recently increased in popularity , you will want to schedule an appointment for them at your veterinary office. While this hybrid dog breed is not prone to health issues, they can still contract issues like ear infections or other issues from their environment. Your vet will examine your puppy to make sure that they are healthy and review what vaccines they may have previously received. Most of the time, they will check their stool for worms and get them started on a vaccine schedule. This is a common schedule that most vets follow for vaccines. This is usually done by the breeder before you get your Goldendoodle puppy. Most of these worms are microscopic, but some you can see in their stool. If you see worms, make sure to let your vet know. Your vet can give your Goldendoodle puppy medication to get rid of these nasty worms. Not only will your pet need vaccines, but they will also need heartworm, flea, and tick prevention. All of these parasites can cause health problems in your Goldendoodle , some of which can be fatal. When do I need to get my Goldendoodle Spayed or Neutered? Most vets recommend spaying or neutering your Goldendoodle puppy around 6 months of age. Some people will wait a little longer before spaying and neutering to allow their Goldendoodle with you. Your veterinarian can discuss the pros and cons of spaying your dog around 6-month vs. This decreases the chance of mammary tumors in females and eliminates testicular cancer in males. By not spaying your dog, you are risking them developing a pyometra. A pyometra is an infection in the uterus that can be fatal if not caught early enough. Puppies recover from the spay or neuter procedure very quickly, where older dogs may take a few days. Surgery on your young puppy will help them from developing major problems later on in life. While puppies can be very cute, over breeding dogs has caused lots of pets to end up in a shelter and not in a loving home. For your dog to stay healthy, they will need proper nutrition. There are many great diets on the market. Most pups will need food that is higher in protein than adult food. You should also look at the ingredient list on the back. The first ingredient should be protein. It is also better if it is the whole protein and not a protein meal. Once your Goldendoodle puppy is almost fully grown , you can switch to adult food. This is usually 8 months to 1 year of age. Most Goldendoodles will stay on an adult diet until they are around 7 years, then they will switch to a senior diet. Your veterinarian can recommend many great brands of dog food. Treats often contain higher amounts of fat than regular dog food. How much to feed a Goldendoodle Puppy? Most recommended following the feeding instructions on the bag, but a good rule of thumb is about 1 cup per 15 pounds a day. Most of the time, it is recommended to split these feeding into a few different feedings each day. When your puppy is very young, most vets worry about your Goldendoodle puppy being able to regulate their blood sugar. By giving them multiple meals a day will help keep their blood sugar at optimal levels. Some people will feed their puppy a mixture of wet food and dry food as their teeth are coming in, and once they have all of their teeth with switch them to strictly dry food. When feeding your Goldendoodle wet food, make sure to decrease the amount of dry food that you are feeding them, or your Goldendoodle can become overweight. Behavioral Training and Socialization When you first get your Goldendoodle puppy, you will need to train them on how to act and socialize them with other people and pets. This makes sure that you raise a well-mannered Goldendoodle. You will have to train them on how to do many things such as: Potty Training Not to Chew on things Simple sit and stay commands How to walk on a leash Potty Training There are two main ways that people potty train their dogs. Most people will crate train or potty pad train their Goldendoodle puppies. Crate training is the most common way, but people in apartments or people who live where winter is very harsh sometimes prefer potty pad training as they do not have to always take their dog outside. Crate Training Some people do not want to keep their Goldendoodle in a crate all day while they are gone. Usually, after a few days, these puppies will adapt to being in a crate during the day. It will even make life easier for you, especially if they are making a mess all over the house or destroying everything in the house. By using consistency and teaching your dog that staying in a crate is fun and not scary will not only make potty training easier, it will also help with vet visits and traveling. Goldendoodles love having a place to call their own. By providing them with a crate, full of blankets and toys, and their food bowl, they will quickly love spending time in their crate. By making this space fun and cozy will make it very easy to train your Goldendoodle to stay in a crate and reduce the likelihood of separation anxiety. They do not like lying next to or in their urine or poop. If you have a large mixed breed Goldendoodle puppy probably from a Standard Poodle parent , you can still get a big crate and use the partition provided with the crate to block off a section of the crate for them to stay in while they are growing. When you are not able to watch your puppy constantly put them in their crate. Many times, this will be when your puppy wants to sleep, or you are gone from the house. Your new puppy will let you know that they need out to potty. These signals may be whining and scratching at the side of the crate or barking at you. As soon as you notice these signs, take your puppy out immediately. Do not let them use the bathroom in their crate as this teaches them it is okay to potty in their crate. Eventually, your puppy will be able to hold it the whole time in their crate without having an accident. Potty Pad or Paper Training If you do want to allow your Goldendoodle to have a place to potty inside, the potty pad training them is a great idea. Potty pad training is great for people who are at work for a very long time or people who cannot make it home during the day to let their Goldendoodle outside. This is also great for small Goldendoodles that live in an apartment or in an area where winter is very harsh. By potty pad training your Goldendoodle puppy, you are giving them an approved location to use the bathroom while you are gone. Sometimes potty pad or paper training your puppy is not the best thing to teach them to do. If your final goal is to only have your dog use the bathroom outside, then it is advised to skip potty pad. Potty pad training can teach your dog bad habits and that it is okay to use the bathroom inside the house. Many times, this can be very confusing for young Goldendoodle puppies. How to potty train your Goldendoodle puppy Potty training is very simple. There are both disposable potty pads and washable potty pads that you can reuse. Lay one of these pads out for your puppy. When you would take your Goldendoodle puppy outside to use the bathroom, take them to the potty pad instead. Your Goldendoodle puppy will quickly learn that this is an approved place for them to use the bathroom. With a little persistence and patience, your Goldendoodle puppy with quickly learn where is an approved spot for them to use the bathroom. Goldendoodles are very smart, and very quick learners most only have a few accidents in the house. Some do take a little longer to potty train usually because they can also be very stubborn. Why is my Goldendoodle Chewing on Everything All puppies will go through a teething phase where they will chew on anything. This is a normal and sometimes painful process. Your Goldendoodle puppy will start to lose teeth around 3 months of age and continue until they are a little over 6 months. During this time, you will notice that your Goldendoodle puppy is chewing on anything and everything. This behavior can become a lifelong habit if you do not give your dog something approved to chew on during this puppy teething phase. During the teething phase , your Goldendoodle puppy will find many different types of objects to chew on to relieve the pain from the new teeth coming in. But chewing on your furniture and shoes is usually not a wanted behavior. You should give your dog appropriate toys and teething devices during this time. Also, you need to teach your Goldendoodle puppy that nipping and biting people and other animals are not allowed. If you have another pet in the house during the time that your Goldendoodle puppy is teething, monitor their playtime as sometimes these nips and bites can escalate into a serious fight. Socializing Your Goldendoodle Puppy It is best to start to socialize your puppy early. This is one of the most important parts of caring for your Goldendoodle. Goldendoodles are a very energetic dog, so give them a chance to get in some exercise! Socialization should start around 8 weeks old. Most people will start with puppy classes. This is a way that you can get your Goldendoodle puppy around other puppies. During your Goldendoodle puppy first few months of life, you need to introduce them to many different sounds and environments. Puppy classes will give your puppy the opportunity to learn basic commands such as sit and stay as well as how to walk on a leash. During this time, it is recommended that your Goldendoodle experiences different types of social environments involving people and other dogs. Without this proper Socialization and training, your Goldendoodle puppy may be afraid in certain situations, such as with new people or animals. When training your Goldendoodle puppy, think of all situations that they may have to encounter in their life. Your Goldendoodle puppy should be relaxed around new people, pets, cars, people on bicycles, honking horns, stairs, cats, exams by the vet, and large crowds of people. If you can get your dog to get used to these situations will make for a much more relaxed life for you and your Goldendoodle. Between 2 and 4 months of age, your puppy is the most comfortable learning these new behaviors, having new experiences, and meeting new people or animals. They may still be scared at first, but you can help them by taking them very often to new places and around new people. Also, provide positive reinforcement when they behave appropriately and support them if they are afraid. After your Goldendoodle is 4 months old, they are usually less tolerant of learning to adapt to new environments and people or animals. This can make obedience training difficult in an older dog. Grooming Training Your Goldendoodle puppy will not need much grooming for the first few months. Just a good brushing every day or so to prevent mats and remove tangles will suffice. Show them all the tools, including your clipper, comb , brush , and scissors, and give your Goldendoodle puppy a lot of praise. Touch their nails and face and make sure that they have a good time. This will make grooming them as adults much easier in the future your groomer will thank you! Signs of Illness in Your Goldendoodle When your puppy is young, they are susceptible to many diseases and illnesses. This is why you need to make sure that your Goldendoodle receives all their needed vaccines. These vaccines alone will not prevent all disease. You will also need to watch your puppy for any signs of Illness. If you see any of these signs, you need to take your Goldendoodle puppy to your vet as soon as possible. Not eating.

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Arkansas Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Arkansas? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Arkansas? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. We're located in the heart of the Arkansas mountains the Ozarks , and our pups grow up on a ten-acre farm. We are looking for dedicated families to adopt our fur babies and love them like we do. We are not a discount breeder; we take this job of placing each pup very seriously and their future and well-being is of utmost importance. Please contact Dogwood Farms if you're ready for this loving commitment. CALL The Dogwood Difference When you purchase a fur baby from Dogwood Farms, they come complete with a puppy care package which includes: a care package, AKC registration paperwork, immunizations completed by a licensed veterinarian along with immunization paperwork and food each pup is used to eating. We are dedicated to these dogs and our promise is to make sure you have the support and equipment you need to take wonderful care of your new fur baby. We also have in person delivery options for each of our puppies. Rates available to St. In Person Flight options are also available as well to most major airports across the nation for example to California, Florida, New York and even Alaska. If for any reason you need to re-home your fur baby, we are more than willing to help you with that process.

Is this Great Dane and Labrador Retriever crossbreed for you? What is a Labradane? Designer dog breeds became popular during the s when breeders started to intentionally mate two purebred dogs to create healthier offspring. Great Danes are giant dogs from Germany. Today, Great Danes are known as one of the gentlest and most affectionate breeds around. They are people lovers, patient with children, and eager to please their owners. They were bred to help their owners in retrieving game and hunting. Today, Labrador Retrievers are known to be outgoing, friendly, and smart. They are working dogs and help in search and rescue operations and drug and explosive detection. Labradanes are affectionate. It should not come as a surprise that the Lab Great Dane mix is one of the sweetest dogs since both its parent breeds are very loving. This hybrid craves human attention and they take every opportunity to show you they love you. You can expect a Labradane to cuddle up when you watch TV or sleep next to you. While its clingy nature is endearing, this breed is prone to having separation anxiety if left alone for too long. Great Dane Labs are playful and energetic. Labradanes have high energy levels and they love to go for walks, run, and swim. They need moderate exercise daily to keep them healthy and happy. A Labradane is required to have at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day. These dogs need their exercise to put their energy to good use and maintain a healthy weight. Great Dane and Labrador Retriever mix puppies tend to be bouncy because they can get overly excited when at play, but this can be taken care of by proper training. Labradanes are patient with kids and other pet dogs, making them a good addition to the family. A bit of caution, though: they can be over-enthusiastic and might unintentionally hurt small children when playing. While Great Dane and Lab mixes are friendly with the people and animals they know, they have an instinct to protect their owners. These dogs are usually wary of strangers, but they will not bark unless they perceive a threat. Even if your Labradane can be protective, they are not ideal guard dogs. They are naturally sweet and they just happen to scare strangers off because of their size. This breed is classified between a large to a giant dog. The size of this breed is at times described as smaller Great Danes, but bigger Labrador Retrievers. Great Dane and Lab mix puppies experience the fastest growth in the first 6 months and stop growing at months. What does a Great Dane and Lab mix look like? It may be difficult to predict how a crossbreed would look as they can take physical attributes from either parent. In general, this hybrid has a muscular body with a broadhead. They have also inherited their floppy ears and long, curled tail from their parents. They have short, thick, and glossy coats that shed moderately. A Labradane may have a coat in shades of black, brindle, chocolate, brown, fawn, white, cream, merle, and golden. Twice-a-week brushing is enough to keep their coats looking healthy during the non-shedding season. Here are some grooming tips to make this time enjoyable for you and your pooch: Brush in the direction in which the coat grows. Be gentle to avoid hurting your dog. Instead of looking at it as a task, think of it as an experience where you and your pet can bond. Give your Labradane a treat after grooming so he behaves at the next grooming session. Bathing this dog too often will strip its coat of natural oils and result in dry skin and allergies. A bath every month or two or when your dog gets really dirty works best for this crossbreed. The floppy ears of the Labradane will also need weekly checking and cleaning. Make sure the ears are completely dry to prevent the spread of bacteria. Labradanes are smart, but some can be stubborn. Great Danes and Labrador Retrievers are known as working dogs , which means that they are smart and capable of carrying out specific tasks such as guarding property or pulling sleds. Like its parent breeds, the Labradane is quick to pick up on commands. Generally, the Lab Great Dane mix is easy to train because of its intelligence and eager-to-please attitude, which it mostly inherits from its Labrador Retriever side. But you might also encounter dogs who are a little more stubborn in following commands. Training will also ensure that Great Dane Lab mix puppies will grow up to be well-behaved giant dogs. Here are some types of training that this breed needs: Socialization — Labradanes can be protective and will be suspicious of strangers. While these dogs are puppies, you will need to socialize them with people or other animals that they would need to get along with. This is dangerous for your dog, especially because of its size. This breed can get over-excited so you also need to train him on how to express its enthusiasm appropriately. When training your Labradane, keep in mind that your puppy must see you as the leader of the pack. You always have to be calm and assertive. They would take opportunities to make you happy in training so they would listen well and follow instructions. Positive reinforcement such as treats and praise also goes a long way in helping good behavior stick. Remember, these dogs are sensitive to your attitude and the tone of your voice. Yelling at your Great Dane and Lab mix will not yield positive results and might hurt his feelings. They also have a tendency to overeat just like their Labrador Retriever parent. Feed your Labradane 4. Both parent breeds are prone to obesity, which can result in other serious health problems. Dog food for giant breeds like Great Danes may also be the best food for the Great Dane Lab mix since these two dogs are around the same size and will share similar nutritional needs. The right kibble will give your pup healthier skin, a shinier coat, and higher energy levels. It would be better to consult your vet to prescribe a specific diet for your beloved canine. Please note that as your Great Dane and Lab mix puppy grows, it would have different needs for its growing body and activity levels. Health issues the Great Dane and Lab mix may inherit Like with any crossbreed, we have to check its parent breeds to see the potential health issues it may inherit. Here are some common conditions this hybrid may inherit from the Great Dane and the Labrador Retriever: Elbow and Hip Dysplasia — this is a condition that usually affects large dog breeds. It occurs when the ball and socket joint is malformed, so that instead of sliding smoothly, the ball and its socket do not meet properly and grind against one another. This condition can cause great pain to your Great Dane and Labrador Retriever mix. Obesity — Labradors love to eat and the Labradane can inherit this hearty appetite. It is best to observe portion control when feeding your Great Dane Lab mix. Its daily exercise should also be helpful in keeping excess weight off this dog. Panosteitis — this is bone inflammation that is common in puppies with long legs due to the rapid growth of bones. Cardiomyopathy — is a heart condition Great Danes suffer from. It is a disease of the heart muscle resulting in an enlarged heart. Your Great Dane and Lab mix should have a heart checkup at least once a year. As a deep-chested breed, the Labradane is also prone to bloat or gastric dilatation-volvulus GDV. There are several theories about the cause of bloat. The most common theory is that it happens when a dog overeats or eats too quickly. Gas buildup causes the stomach to inflate like a large balloon, and the stomach becomes overstretched. This is why bloat is often a fatal condition. One of the easiest ways to prevent bloat is to keep your dog from physically rigorous activities right after meals. This list of health issues might look overwhelming and may make you think twice about getting yourself a Labradane. But advocates of designer dog breeds say that hybrids are much healthier than purebred dogs due to genetic diversity. This crossbreed may or may not inherit these illnesses, but the key to having a healthy Great Dane and Lab mix lies in the care and attention you give to your pooch. Visits to the vet to have health checks are strongly advised to prevent any serious issues from developing. Giving your pet a proper diet and sufficient exercise is important as well. All of these sound good! Where can I get a Labradane pup? You can get your Great Dane and Lab mix from a rescue or a dog who is for adoption and is looking for a new home or you can buy a puppy. It will be heartbreaking if you take home a puppy and find out that it has a chronic illness. It may not be easy finding a breeder that focuses on Labradanes, so you can check breeders of Great Danes and Labrador Retrievers and go from there. Here are some breeders for Great Danes and Labrador Retrievers:. But the Great Dane gentle nature quickly took over and by the end of the century, they were more popular among royalty where they received endless pampering. If we go all the way back to 3, BC and 2, BC, we find drawings and pictures of a similar-looking dog in both Egypt and Babylonian respectively. The Labrador Retriever is a newer breed compared to the Great Dane with early reports showing the Lab popped up sometime during the 18 or 19th century. At that time, they were called the St. The Labrador Retriever takes it name from Labrador, Newfoundland. So what about the history of the Lab Dane mix? As well, there have been several dozen new hybrid mixes created in the last two decades due to the designer breed craze. Appearance Like many designers breeds the appearance of The Labradane can vary with some looking just like the Great Dane, others like the Lab. However, the majority will dawn a unique blend of the two. Both parents are larger dogs, with the Great Dane being particularly tall, so you can count on their puppies being big and most likely weighing around lbs. As well, with both dogs having genes for a black coat, the majority of Labradanes have a short and silky obsidian coat. They have large block-shaped heads that sit on an equally bulky body. The AKC recognizes three coat colors: yellow, chocolate, and black, but sometimes you will see coats that are more red, white, or sliver. Their coat is short, but dense due to its double layer. They have a large block-shaped head like the Labrador, but unlike them, they have a very lean and hard body with a big chest that slopes into a tight stomach. Oh, and they also have those incredibly long legs that define their appearance. The AKC recognizes six varieties of coat colors: fawn, brindle, harlequin, black, mantle, and blue. The Great Dane can come in several colors not recognized by show arenas, however: white, fawnequin, brindlequin, merle, merlequin, blue merle, chocolate, and fawn mantle. Temperament Both the Great Dane and the Labrador Retriever are known for their intelligent, loyal, and friendly nature. The Great Dane is often called a gentle giant, and the Labrador is easily one of the best family dogs around. The biggest difference in temperament is the Lab loves to run and be active while the Great Dane prefers to relax. Now, Great Dane puppies are very active, but this naturally goes away with age, as well, hyperactivity is discouraged because it puts their rapidly growing bones at risk. All-and-all, the Labradane is a designer dog whose personality is easier to predict because the Lab and Dane share so many traits. Lifespan Lifespan can really vary with designer dogs making it hard to predict how long your Labradane will live for. Unfortunately, Great Danes have a very short lifespan with most only living between years. The Labrador Retriever, on the other hand, typically lives between years. Health A Labradane puppy can inherit genetic diseases from both sides, which increases the number of health conditions they are prone to. On the bright side, they have better genetic diversity than their parents, and this is the key to avoiding inherited health conditions. Essentially, genetic diversity helps good genomes block bad genomes from expressing themselves. Their biggest fight is often with obesity, which puts them at risk for several health conditions. So when you look at the long list below, know that obesity plays in factor in many. Medium shedding Labradanes: History Of The Breed Breeders started to mix Great Danes with Labrador retrievers in the s when designer crossbreed dogs became popular. The original intention seems to have been to make smaller versions of the Great Dane rather than larger Labradors. Labrador retrievers are retriever gun dogs that were initially bred in the United Kingdom from pups imported from Canada. They are intelligent and eager to please, which has always made them great working dogs, especially near water, since they love to swim. Over the last 50 years, they have often been utilized as working dogs, especially in roles such as disability service. They are ideally suited for this because of their intelligence, energy, and naturally friendly nature. They are one of the most popular pets in the United States. Great Danes , also known as German mastiffs, have been around since the Middle Ages and are one of the largest breeds in the world. They were used for bear, boar, and deer hunting, but they were also popular companions for their masters. They eventually became more commonly kept as pets when hunting practices changed with the introduction of firearms. They are tall, long-legged dogs with a sleek, muscular physique and the ears of a classic hound. They are highly friendly, gentle, and loving dogs despite their large size. Exactly how large they will become as adults depend on the sizes of their parents. Labradors usually measure between .Great Danes are much larger, usually measuring between 28 and 35 inches tall. They typically weigh between and pounds. The mother of the crossbreed is always the Great Dane, as the mother needs to be larger in order to protect against birthing complications. The smaller the Labrador father, the smaller your mixed breed Labradane is likely to be. Labradane pups tend to be on the heavier side, since Great Danes are already large and Labradors have a stockier build, so they can be a bit heavier than they look. Appearance It can be very difficult to know whether a crossbreed Labrador retriever Great Dane will primarily carry on the characteristics of their Labrador retriever parent, their Great Dane parent, or a mixture of both. Generally, they can either have the long face and distinctive jowls of a Great Dane or the smoother face of a Lab. However, most pups tend to have gorgeous floppy ears. When the ear canal is covered, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria. The coat of a Labradane can be black, brown, golden, or white, and they are usually the same solid color all over, but you will occasionally see Lab Great Dane mixes with distinctive patterns. Their coats tend to have a high gloss finish and can be quite oily. It is important to consider this when choosing a shampoo. While they usually shed less than a Labrador retriever, they are still moderate shedders and should be brushed at least twice a week to keep their shedding under control. Despite the thickness of their coats, they actually do just as well in hot weather and in the cold, though you should always bring an appropriate amount of water when taking them out on warmer days and look out for signs of heat exhaustion. They are also good at picking up on what is wanted from them in new training situations. However, while a Labradane can always learn new things, the boisterous nature of Great Danes means that sometimes, they might just not want to, and they might prefer to play rather than learn. This means they can need quite a bit of firmness in their training and commands so they know you are serious and that training sessions are time to obey rather than play. Training them properly from a young age will help them know the difference and make them much more controllable as adults. You can read our complete guide on crate training puppies here. Energy Levels The size of these dogs means they will struggle in a small apartment. In confined spaces, a Labradane will tend to feel cramped, and they can sometimes forget just how big they are and be a little on the clumsy side. At the same time, though, these are pretty high-energy dogs that need to be taken out on walks or for a run at least twice a day. If you are a runner, they will have no problem keeping up with you. Between 40 and 60 minutes of dedicated exercise, each day should be sufficient to keep them healthy. In addition to this, your Labradane will thrive if they have at least a modest amount of space to move around and play in, so they are happiest in a home that has a spacious, fenced-in backyard they can roughhouse in. Sociability Both Labrador retrievers and Great Danes like being with people and bond quickly with their families, so you can expect the same from their crossbred pups. Labradanes make great family pets who will love playing with children and will even take a protective attitude towards them. Just remember not to let small children play unsupervised with any dog, regardless of how familiar they might be. This is especially true with Lab Great Dane mixes, as they can forget just how big and strong they are, and accidents can happen. They get on well with other animals and tend to respond playfully rather than aggressively. This means they do particularly well in houses with other pets, as long as they are properly socialized, which is important whenever you introduce a new animal into a home that already has pets. Because they enjoy the company of people, they can only tolerate solitude for short periods of time. Your Labradane will struggle if they are left at home by themselves often while everyone is out at work or if they are left to mind the fort when the family goes on holiday. It is a good idea to think about how your lifestyle is compatible with this breed before getting a Labradane pup. They will love to go on adventure holidays with you and usually enjoy long road trips, too. You can always take them out on the water with you. Great Dane Lab mixes enjoy physical closeness with their humans, and they will love to curl up on the couch or into bed with you if you let them. Health Risks Labradanes are generally considered to be quite healthy, but like many large dogs, they can be prone to elbow and hip dysplasia. Dysplasia is a deformity in the joints which occurs when different parts of their bodies grow out of proportion. Not only is dysplasia painful, but it can also cause mobility issues. The best treatment is prevention through a healthy diet and an appropriate level of exercise when they are growing. Remember that, despite their high energy, it is possible to over-exercise pups. Until larger dogs are fully grown, they should only have about five minutes of exercise per day per one month of their age. So, a six-month-old pup only needs around 30 minutes of exercise per day. The deep chest of these dogs also means that they can be prone to bloating, so it is important to watch their diet. It is best to feed them smaller, spaced-out meals more often rather than letting them engorge themselves in a single meal. Avoid dog foods with potential irritants such as artificial additives. Great Dane Lab mixes also love their food, and they will overeat and quickly gain excess weight if you let them. It is up to their parents to strictly control their diet to make sure they stick to the right calories intake. Never feed them human food, or worse, food off your own plate, or they will pick up the bad habit of asking for your food. So, are you excited by the idea of bringing a Great Dane Lab mix home? If so, here are some questions to ask yourself when deciding whether these amazing dogs are likely to make a good fit for you and your lifestyle. Where Do You Live? These dogs are big, so they need plenty of space to be happy and comfortable. Are You Normally At Home? Great Dane Lab mixes are very personable. While this makes them great family pets, it also means they struggle when left alone for long periods of time. Will there be someone at home most of the time to keep them company, or will they be left alone for hours at a time while everyone is at work? Also, consider how often you take vacations. Will you be able to take your dog with you? If not, is there someone familiar that you will be able to leave them with while you are away? Are You Active? These dogs need quite a bit of exercise, and they will be happier joining you for a run rather than a slow stroll around the park. Will you have the time and energy to take them out for around an hour of high-energy play every day? Labradanes will also love to join you for adventures such as hikes and swims on the weekend. Are you an outdoorsy type, or are you more of a couch potato? Great Dane Lab mixes are intelligent, which means they are relatively easy to train, but they also need a firm hand. They are boisterous and big dogs, which means they need an owner or trainer with the confidence to train them and keep them under control. If you are a first-time owner, it is worth considering whether or not you are confident enough for this task. Can You Afford Their Care? Labradanes eat a lot, so maintaining their upkeep is a huge financial commitment. They are also likely to need other somewhat pricey items such as crates. Bigger dogs are generally more expensive to care for than smaller pups. Great Dane Lab mixes can be as big as a purebred Great Dane, often reaching 35 inches and weighing up to pounds. However, they are usually much smaller thanks to their Lab parent and can be anywhere from 28 to 35 inches and to pounds. Look at the size of their parents for a general idea of how large your pup is likely to grow. Are Great Dane Lab mixes good dogs? Yes, Labradanes are excellent dogs in that they are intelligent and friendly and are often a great choice if you want a larger dog. They are excellent with children and get on well with other animals, but they also require a big commitment from you. When are Labrador Great Dane mixes fully grown? You will notice your pup grows very quickly in the first six months of their lives, but they will be far from fully grown at that point. Most Great Dane Lab mixes will continue to grow until they are between the ages of 12 and 18 months. The form of their body will also change at the time, gradually taking on a leaner and more muscular appearance. How much does a Lab Great Dane mix cost? Prices can go up even further if the demand in your area is high, and the best breeders also tend to charge a bit more. Alternatively, you may find one of these great dogs in a shelter, but there are few shelters that specialize in this particular crossbreed. Start by looking at shelters that work specifically with Labradors or Great Danes to find the dog that you are looking for. The Verdict If you love large dogs and want a friendly, family-oriented dog, then a Great Dane Lab mix might be just the pup that you are looking for. These gentle giants will love being part of the family and will fit in immediately, even with children and other animals. Bear in mind, however, that they do need lots of love, exercise, and attention, meaning you need to make a commitment to them. In return, the unconditional love you will receive from your Labradane pup is well worth the investment. Do you have experience with Great Dane Lab mixes? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Labradane Overview Labradanes are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Labrador Retriever or Great Dane parents. The most common colors of Labradane coats are brown, black, and white. They are usually solid colors, although small markings might be present in some cases. Labradanes love humans and need big spaces. The Labradane is great with kids, even though they sometimes forget about their own size. Labradanes tend to overeat or eat too quickly, which can lead to bloat or obesity. Labradane History The Labradane came about during the designer dog craze in the s. The Labrador was previously called the St. Labradane Size The Labradane is usually described as a large or even giant dog. As a newer dog breed, exact size standards might vary, but with Labrador and Great Dane heritage you can definitely expect your dog to be on the bigger end of the scale. Most weigh in at to pounds and range in height from 24 to 30 inches. Female Labradanes can sometimes be a little smaller than their male counterparts. The gentle giant reputation the breed has picked up is very warranted. This dog loves to hang out with humans whenever possible, although they might, on occasion, be wary of total strangers. Brisk walks are great for them, and the Labradane is always a star at the local dog park. Just be wary that sometimes they can act a little goofy and not always realize the extent of their own size! It goes without saying that big dogs need big living spaces. A large family environment is preferred—this is not a dog for a single person living in an apartment situation. Labradane Health Labradanes are generally considered to be healthy dogs—although the breed is a deep-chested dog, which can lead to digestive issues and bloat. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Labradanes can become obese due to overeating—consider serving smaller, monitored meals throughout the day rather than letting the dog free-feed. Twice daily walks are standard for a Labradane. Labradanes need to keep up a structured exercise regime through their life, not only to stay toned but to avoid any mobility issues that might arise from inactivity. The breed also likes to be mentally stimulated, so provide interactive toys and consider adding variety to play sessions and walking routes. This will help ward off infection. Labradane Feeding An ideal Labradane diet should be formulated for a large-sized breed with medium energy. Labradanes need to stick to a heathy diet. The breed is usually the same color all over, although small markings might be present in some cases. Labradanes have short and dense coats. Their short hair should be brushed twice a week as part of a regular grooming routine, although in spring months you may notice slightly heavier than usual shedding, so update your regime as appropriate. Bathing your Labradane once a month is recommended. The breed is usually fine living in all climates—although, in hot weather, make sure that heat exhaustion is not a risk during walks. This is a playful breed that enjoys forming close bonds with the humans in their life. Labradanes can also become quite protective of the people they live with. However, if you have very young kids, make sure to supervise play sessions as sometimes this gentle giant of the dog world forgets about its large size. The Labradane is usually tolerant of other animals, including dogs. Although always exercise caution before introducing new pets to each other. Labradane Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Labradanes because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Labrador Retriever or Great Dane breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Rescues that cater to large or giant breeds might also be able to help. Here are some rescues you can try:. Video: Labradane Lab Great Dane Mix Playing and Retrieving Temperament and Behavior The Labradane, characterized by a pleasant disposition, makes a great companion desiring to be closely bonded to its human family. Always eager to please its owner, the dog craves for praise and affection. It will welcome your visitors unless it sees something suspicious. Besides its protective nature, its imposing appearance can be intimidating for an unwanted stranger. A Labradane is well disposed toward kids and other pets if raised with them. However, its size can cause problems, as it can accidentally knock over a small child. Make sure that you teach your kids how to approach and get along with these big dogs safely. Care Exercise Even though Labradanes are quiet indoors, they need regular minute walks or interactive playing sessions in a secured area. They should not be overly exercised especially when young since puppies are vulnerable to bone and joint problems. Grooming Their coat needs regular brushing with a firm-bristled brush, as it helps in keeping the fur healthy and clean, thereby reducing the number of baths they need. Brush their teeth times a week and trim their nails once a month. When their ears show signs of infection, clean them with a pH-balanced solution. Health Problems The Great Dane Lab mixes are affected by certain health issues including elbow and hip dysplasia, improper development of bones and joints, PRA, epilepsy, cataracts, gastric torsion, and acute moist dermatitis. Training Start training the Labradanes early because their sheer size could make them difficult to control by the time they become adults. Socialization: To prevent your pet dog from exhibiting aggression or fear when meeting strangers, properly socialize Labradane puppies with unfamiliar people and pets. You may check in your neighborhood for groups that take their dogs to the park or ask the dog walkers to join you on the route. Teaching your dog to chase and fetch: Encourage your pet to go after a ball, Frisbee, or stick by tossing it a short distance. When your dog goes for it, reward with praises and treats. If your dog refuses to bring the toy back, you can use another object and throw it in an opposite direction. This will help in familiarizing your pet to the idea of going back to you once it has grabbed the object. After your dog has mastered this, try calling your dog back and ask it drop the object. Feeding The Labradane needs four and a half to six cups of dry dog food per day. Due to their popularity, Labradanes are priced quite high. If you are looking for a unique hybrid, the Labradane may be the pup for you. They are gentle giants full of love! Labradanes can weigh over pounds Labradanes can easily weigh over pounds, sometimes hitting close to pounds. Although the average Labrador Retriever rarely weighs over pounds, the Great Dane can weigh over pounds. Labradanes Shed a Lot Labradanes may have short coats, but their shedding can be overwhelming. Labradanes Love to Eat Unlike some breeds and mixes, Labradanes love to eat. These large dogs are happy snuggling on the couch with their favorite person, but they do enjoy playtime and romping around off-leash. While not all Labradanes may possess the same qualities as their littermates, we can take a closer look at the parents to have an idea of what to expect: Great Danes are known for being the gentle giants of the dog world but are sadly known for their short lifespans. These massive canines are excellent companions that rarely have aggression issues, but their imposing size makes them deterrents to unwanted visitors. Great Danes are also a popular choice for service work, often trained in helping people with physical disabilities move around from place to place. Labrador Retrievers are the most popular dog breed almost exclusively around the world, mostly due to their cheerful and good-natured demeanors. Although they can be raucous as young puppies, Labs usually mellow within a few years. Labs, as well as Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds, make exceptionally great seeing-eye dogs. Temperaments can vary wildly with mixed breeds, but Labradanes seem to have missed the memo and are known for being relatively calm and mild-mannered. They do best with homes that have adequate space for them, so this hybrid is not the best choice for small apartment living. Shedding is light throughout the year, but it may get heavier during its shedding season. When shedding is light, brushing once or twice a week would suffice. While heavy shedding might require regular daily brushing. A firm-bristled brush may be used as it helps in maintaining the fur healthy and clean. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. You can also opt for a swimming activity since this hybrid dog loves swimming a lot. Proper cleaning and care should be given to their ears as these sites tend to accumulate dirt and bacteria easily. If you suspect any signs of ear infection, clean the ears with a pH-balanced solution. Long nails should also be trimmed to avoid problems concerning tearing or splitting if they are not worn down naturally. Just like other dog breeds, dental health is also essential with your Lab Great Dane. Make sure to brush their teeth at least twice or thrice a week to prevent tooth decays. Regular exercise activities should also be helpful to keep off gaining excess weight. Elbow and Hip Dysplasia: These conditions are common among large dog breeds. It happens when the ball and socket joint is malformed, so instead of sliding smoothly across one another, the bones do not adequately meet. Dysplasia causes unbearable pain to your Great Dane Lab mix. Cardiomyopathy: Your Labradene may also suffer from heart conditions, such as cardiomyopathy. Make sure to always to bring your Lab Great Dane to his veterinarian at least once a year. Panosteitis — Also known as Shifting Leg Lameness or Pano, this condition is occasionally seen among dogs with long legs due to the rapid growth of their bones. Bloating: Your dog may also suffer from bloating caused by gas buildup in the stomach. It may inflate like a large balloon wherein the abdomen may become overstretched. At worst condition, the heart and the stomach may not get enough blood and oxygen, which may cause the stomach to die. Bloating can be fatal. Moreover, the key to having a healthy Labradane also lies in the care and attention you give your pet companion. For optimal results, go for the tried and tested best large breed dry dog food and our picks of the best dry dog food brands. The Great Dane Lab diet should include lean meat-rich foods, with the right amount of vegetables and fruits. Make sure not to forget supplying him with a fresh, clean bowl of drinking water from time to time. Moreover, always remember to not feed your dog with foods stuffed with preservatives. If you are not sure how to tell which ingredients to avoid, take a look at our guide on the worst dry dog food and go from there. Make them into a bona fide canine powerhouse by adding supplements to their diet. We would start with Nutra Thrive dog food supplement — after consulting with the vet first, of course! Apart from minding the nutritional value and the ingredient list of the food you serve to your pooch, you have to make sure it matches their age. If your Lab Great Dane mix is but a puppy, there are numerous best puppy food brands that you can opt for. While your dog is a cub, they can also eat food designed for tiny pooches, such as the best dry dog food for small dogs. When they become old and wrinkly, their frail health will be best sustained with these best senior dry dog food brands. Lab crossed with Great Dane Exercise Requirements The Labrador crossed with Great Dane is an energetic dog, so regular exercise is needed to release its excess energy and to keep him happy and healthy. Regular routine practice is not only good for your dog, but it is also beneficial for your health. He requires at least 30 minutes of physical activity or interactive play sessions daily. The Labradanes love to go for walks, but you can also try other outdoor activities. Here are some examples that you can enjoy with your Labrador crossed with Great Dane: Hiking: It is a great way to turn your daily walk to an exciting and fun activity for you and your dog. You can try going to the woods near your area for a little adventure and hike for a few distances. Swimming: Because of the Labrador Retriever in his lineage, the Labradane is also one of those few dogs who love swimming. It also provides relief from the heat during the summer months. You may also add some twist to the activity by using either a Frisbee or a tennis racquet to throw the object farther. Lab Great Dane Training Since the Labradane is a highly energetic breed which can sometimes be overly enthusiastic and boisterous, early training and socialization are essential aspects in calming down this hybrid. This is important because they can be difficult to control once they become adults because of their sheer size. Here are some types of training your Lab mixed with Great Dane may need: Socialization Training: Socialization at an early age has been proven to prevent your Labradane from developing aggressive behaviors, anxiety, and fearfulness later on in their adulthood. It should be included in the training routine of any responsible dog parent. The key to socialization training is to introduce and expose your dog to different people, animals, and environments as early as a puppy. Basic Obedience Training: Your Labradene puppy needs to grasp basic obedience training commands such as sit down, come, stay drop, stop and recall so you can control their behavior when needed. As previously mentioned, this crossbreed can be overly enthusiastic, so you also need to train him how not to get too excited. Encourage them to go inside their crate by using treats as rewards. When training your Great Dane Lab, keep in mind that your puppy must see you as the leader of the pack. Avoid being overly strict while training your pup as he may grow up fearing you instead of showering you with loyalty. Make sure to be gentle but firm in training him. They will easily listen and follow your instructions and are eager to participate in the training session with you. Remember to implement positive reinforcement. Treats and praises can go a long way in helping good behavior stick. Great Dane Labrador and Families Despite his large size, the Great Dane crossed with Labrador Retriever is a great family dog because of his affectionate and loving nature. They are patient, friendly and gentle with children and other pet animals. Careful attention should still be given when they are around babies and infants as they can be overly-enthusiastic and they might unintentionally hurt small kids when playing due to their large size. With proper socialization and training, the Great Dane Lab should make a loveable and excellent family companion. They can be your loyal pet companion as long as you shower them with equal love and care. Be a responsible dog parent by feeding them well, socializing them and giving them sufficient amount of exercises and training. References: Wang, Ping, et al. Walton, Joel, and Eve Adamson. Labrador Retrievers for Dummies. Wiley Publishing, .Lee, Muriel P. Kennel Club Books Llc, .Breed Profiles By Kate Brunotts 10 min read May 25, 2 Comments K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Are you looking for a magnificent mutt to take over your home and heart? The Labradane — an endearing cross between a Great Dane and Labrador retriever — might be the perfect fit for your family! These dogs commonly exhibit a combination of traits from both parent breeds, as is the case with most mutts. However, there are a couple of traits that most Labradanes tend to have in common, such as a loyal, loving nature. There are also a couple of similar canine crosses and purebred pooches Labradane lovers may want to consider. This includes big best buddies like Irish Wolfhounds and designer dogs like the Goldendane. But despite their impressive statures, Great Danes can adapt well to relatively small spaces, as long as they are provided the exercise, stimulation, and training they need. Great Danes are known for their easy-going natures and dependable demeanors. In fact, these big doggos are actually super cuddly canines. You can find Great Danes in colors ranging from solid grey, to black to tan, and they also display merle, brindle, or harlequin coats on occasion. As they grow older, it may be more difficult to guide your gargantuan Great Dane, so make sure he has mastered his manners. These good-natured furry friends need plenty of room and moderate exercise to keep their tails wagging. Labrador Retriever The other half of the sweet Labradane can be traced back to one of the most coveted canines: the Labrador retriever. Labs have a history as bird-hunting dogs , so they certainly like to stay active and are happy to accompany you on any adventure. These smart sweethearts also make amazing therapy dogs and tend to follow their favorite humans from one room to the next. Labradors are excellent canine companions, though they need to be placed with an owner who can keep up with their moderately high energy levels, and provide plenty of exercise throughout the day. These medium-sized dogs weigh about 50 to 80 pounds and come in golden, chocolate or black coat variants. Labradane Traits and Characteristics Are you considering bringing home one of these gentle giants? Here are some generalized traits and characteristics for you to take into consideration. With that in mind, still take the time to meet your individual puppy and his parents before committing to your canine. Size and Shape: Labradanes are large furry friends weighing anywhere from 80 to pounds. But as with all mixed breeds, deviations from this range are common. These sweet dogs are highly intelligent, and eager to please their family members. They are also incredibly loyal dogs and known for their friendly, playful nature. These are quintessential family dogs, who do well in households where someone is usually around to keep them company. Coat and Colors: Labradanes usually have a white, brown, black, or brindle coat. Like his Great Dane and Labrador parents, the mixed breed will have a fairly short, slick yet thick coat. Labradanes shed fairly regularly and should have their ears groomed on a regular basis as their large, floppy size makes them prone to ear infections. Intelligence: Labradanes are incredibly intelligent furry friends that should be fairly easy to train. Training Challenges: Luckily, Labradanes are known to be star students out of love for their humans and training treats. Labradanes can also suffer from separation anxiety and do not like being left alone for long periods of time. Health: Labradanes have a life expectancy of anywhere between 8 and 12 years. Best Families and Situations for a Labradane Not all homes are suitable for these unique furry friends. Use this checklist to make sure you can provide a lovely Labradane everything he needs to live a happy life. You have plenty of space. So, Laberdanes are best for homes with plenty of room and a big backyard. Someone is usually home. Labradanes are highly social and love spending time with their humans. The ideal home for a Labradane is lively and usually has someone around to keep these patient pups entertained. These sweet dogs want nothing more than to embed themselves as part of the family unit. How Can You Find a Labradane? Tracking down any designer dog can be difficult, and the grand and great Labradane is no exception. Here are a couple of key ways you can narrow down your search: Start with an online search. Using an online doggie database like Petfinder can make it much easier to determine whether or not there are Labradanes in your area. Look into local shelters. Seek out a ruff-ural. If you happen to know a Labradane owner, you can ask for them to refer you to their breeder. Additionally, you can shoot your shot by reaching out to Labrane owners on social media if you feel comfortable. Keep in mind that not all breeders are reputable. If you choose to purchase your pooch, make sure your breeder is someone you can trust. Here are a few that have similar characteristics to these special canines. Laboundland: These gentle canines hit the sweet spot between their Labrador and Newfoundland parents. Like the Labradane, this mutt is on the larger side with an equally proportionate heart. Bernese Mountain Dog: Berners are known for their good-natured, laid-back demeanor paired with their distinct tri-color coat. These fluffy furry friends do well with kids and other pets. These big best buddies are super sweet and maintain a joyful, puppy-like spirit well into their years. Irish Wolfhound: These purebred pups are one of the tallest breeds you can find and make agreeable canine companions. Irish Wolfhounds are active, loyal, and dedicated family companions. Have you ever met a Labradane before? Like it? Share it!

View fullsize Both our chocolate Labradoodle and our Poodle are beautiful dogs with excellent temperaments. They are our family pets. Because we begin with a Labradoodle and a Poodle, rather than a Lab and a Poodle, our puppies are much more likely to have the non-shedding Poodle coat. A F1b Labradoodle has been back-crossed to a poodle in an effort to insure a non-shedding coat. Even though most f1b Labradoodles shed very little or not all, it is impossible to guarantee that any dog even doodles or purebred poodles will not shed at all. Hypo- means less hypothermia is having a lower than normal body temperature. No dog can be said to be completely non-allergenic. Studies have shown that doodles are less likely to cause allergies, particularly f1b doodles. The ideal is to keep as much of the Lab head shape and super-friendly personality as possible while getting the non-shedding Poodle coat as well as the dignified, less vocal characteristics of the Poodle. Our Labradoodle methodology is quite simple. First, we get quality dogs. This is why we wanted to have pick of the litter for our Labradoodle and our Poodle and why we only obtained puppies from reputable breeders that we knew we could trust. Second, we try to treat our dogs Labradoodle and Poodle well. We feed our Labradoodle and Poodle high quality food with plenty of protein, and give them wonderful socialization and opportunities for exercise. We have 12 acres along the Enoree River with trails, additional property next to a Greenville state park, and property on Lake Hartwell giving us the opportunity to take the dogs kayaking. We recognize the importance of socializing young Labradoodle puppies so they will not be fearful as they mature. Our Labradoodle puppies have lots of opportunities to play with our children, and water games are definitely on top of the list. Labradoodles love the water and so do my kids, as you can see below. Third, we try to find appropriate families for our Chocolate Labradoodle puppies. To learn more about our process, check out this resource that gives a step-by-step guide between the application to receiving your puppy! A Chocolate Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle is not for everyone, and a puppy is not for everyone. If your family is not prepared for a Labradoodle puppy financially, time investment, etc. When can you get your puppy? Because we have only one Labradoodle mother and a couple guardian homes , puppies are available only occasionally. Contact us nathan crockettdoodles. We have a flexible waiting list and offer your deposit back if we do not have the ideal Labradoodle puppy for you within a certain window of time. Sometimes with mini Labradoodles we prefer to wait until they are a little older than 8 weeks because accidents tend to happen more easily with really small puppies. We will take several pictures of you with your Labradoodle puppy. We will send you the pictures for free place them on a USB thumb drive for you , and you will have full copyright privileges to all of the pictures to use at your discretion. You have the option of whether or not the photos appear here on the ChocolateLabradoodlePuppies. Although we never ship puppies, we will sometimes personally deliver puppies for a reasonable fee. Why should you consider getting a Chocolate Labradoodle from us? If a Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy is right for your family, and if you are within driving distance of Greenville, SC, you may want to consider getting a chocolate Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle from us. If you read our Labradoodle puppy methodology and like what you read, you should consider adopting one of our puppies. We have a three-year health guarantee on each of our puppies if the forever home continues to feed TLC one year health guarantee on all others. How can you get a Chocolate Labradoodle or Labradoodle mini from us? If you think your family would be a good match for one of our Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppies, then start the conversation by emailing us at nathan crockettdoodles. You will have full access to all pictures and hold the copyright to make as many pictures as you desire. You keep all the pictures. We give your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy a quality collar. We give your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy a quality leash. We give you a bag of high quality dog food. We believe that you should give your new Labradoodle puppy or mini Labradoodle puppy the best food. Instructional materials about crate training and house training. Our goal is to do everything we can to assist in the house training and crate training process. A Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy or any puppy cannot be completely reliable in the house until the puppy is about 6 months old. The simple point is that no matter what some breeders tell you you will be partially involved in the house training process unless you buy an older Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle , but we want to help you with that process. A one-year health guarantee; extended to three years for all who continue to feed TLC. We are concerned with finding really good homes for our Labradoodle and mini Labradoodle puppies. Labradoodle Color To see a list of available colors, check out this page. At ChocolateLabradoodlePuppies. Ultimately we cannot completely control the color of puppies. Even though chocolate is the most desirable color, we sometimes have puppies of other colors even occasional merles. These puppies, will of course, also make excellent pets. These non-chocolate Labradoodle puppies are also available to great families, but we know that Chocolate Labradoodles are the most desirable. The Labrador Retriever has a short coat that sheds. By breeding the F1 Labradoodle back to an unrelated Poodle, the chances of getting the highly desirable non-shedding Poodle coat increase exponentially. Some F1B Labradoodles are bred back another time to a Poodle in an effort to guarantee a Poodle coat. If high quality dogs are chosen to breed that have the head shape of a Labrador Retriever it is possible to get a puppy that is very similar in many ways to a Labrador, but has the beautiful non-shedding Poodle coat. Both Labrador Retrievers and Poodles are highly intelligent dogs, helping Labradoodles excel in smarts, train-ability, and a general desire to always please their owner. If you desire a family-friendly, kid loving, medium energy dog that is comfortable inside or outside, that loves the water and the land, you should definitely consider a Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle. For more info about Labradoodle puppies or mini Labradoodle puppies, please email nathan crockettdoodles. Check out our sister site miniLabradoodlePuppies. We specialize in Chocolate Labradoodles and mini Labradoodles, but often we have other colors as well. Occasionally someone travels from Atlanta, Columbia, Raleigh-Durham or Knoxville, but our proximity to North Carolina and the popularity of Labradoodles in North Carolina make Charlotte and Asheville our most serviced locations. We also have some who are interested from distant states, but we primarily serve the Southeast U. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Shipping is available if you are not within driving distance. Welcome to North Georgia Labradoodles! We are a small family breeder of Labradoodles located in Northeast Georgia. We are a mother and daughter team and have been breeding top quality dogs for years. We aquired our first labradoodle in and fell head-over-heels in love with the Labradoodle temperment. We raise our sweet Labradoodles right here in our home where they can get the love and socialization that they need. Our dogs share our home, occupy our couches, our laps and our beds. Our dogs are not simply a business, they are cherished members of the family. We focus on raising beautiful, loving, healthy, intelligent, allergy and asthma-friendly companions for you and your family. All puppies are raised in our home with individual love and socialization. Our parents are health tested and our puppies come with a one year health guarantee. North Georgia Labradoodles breeds standard-sized, multi-generational Labradoodles. Our puppies are bred for temperament, health, personality and — of course — looks! Yes, these puppies are incredibly adorable, but beauty is not the only thing that makes them special. Their cuteness, combined with their inherent intelligence and gentle temperament, makes these puppies completely irresistible. We think that starts with the parents. We health test before choosing our breeding dogs to ensure the healthiest puppies possible. We test using PawPrint Genetics. Click below to view the testing and results. Rainmaker Ranch Labradoodle Breeders Mission: To bring families an exceptional labradoodle, exceptional in labradoodle health, temperament and conformation. We have completed all the canine expert suggested labradoodle genetic health testing on all the generations of your labradoodle puppy to ensure a lifetime of health. Labradoodle Breeders since We believe that to breed a healthy labradoodle family companion, then the parents of your labradoodle puppy must also be healthy family companions! We are very careful in ensuring that the parents of your labradoodle puppy have the same temperament you would want in a family labradoodle dog. We are three expert labradoodle breeders working together, we only have one or two Australian labradoodle dogs each and one litter at a time so we can focus on the labradoodle puppies and the families who are adopting them, our labradoodle breeding dogs are loved family pets always living inside with us. We breed labradoodles in our home under the supervision of our veterinarian breeding specialist, we do not cage or kennel our dogs or puppies. Our Australian Labradoodle breeding dogs are members of our family, sleeping on our kids' beds at night, living indoors, and are loved constantly. Our belief is that being a labradoodle breeder is not a right, but a responsibility to the labradoodle breeding dogs and puppies. We only breed fleece coats, soft and loopy. We breed wide body, stocky, silly labradoodle dogs. We do not think labradoodles should look like any other breed; just a cool looking casual dog. We breed labradoodles for non shed and allergy friendly as much as a dog can be coats. Australian Labradoodle Breeders It takes years to develop a solid program of healthy, great temperament Labradoodle parent dogs who in turn bring along consistent, soft fleece coated, incredible Australian Labradoodle puppies. Come visit our home, be greeted by our incredible labradoodle dogs and talk with us about our labradoodle breeding program. This includes everything you need to know about our excellent Labradoodle Puppy breeder Program, from wait list, labradoodle health, labradoodle size, color, available labradoodle puppies, and labradoodle information to prepare you for your new Labradoodle puppy. Mini Labradoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Comparison Two dog breeds, one purpose: to make your life a joy-filled journey powered by strong bonds, friendship, and unconditional love. Meet the Mini Labradoodle and the Mini Sheepadoodle. Two very adorable and friendly dogs with upbeat personalities, the Mini Labradoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle make the perfect addition to any lucky family. Your way of life, hobbies, and work schedule are all important factors that can help determine which of the two dog breeds is a good fit for your lifestyle.Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? They are fun, easygoing, and gentle. Mini Labradoodles enjoy canine games like chase, fetch, and Frisbee, and thrive on cuddles and love. Energetic, friendly, and full of life, the Mini Labradoodles make wonderful jogging and hiking companions. They are known to enjoy a good swim, a long stroll, and are very fond of adventures. The Mini Labradoodle puppies are happy, energetic, and bright bundles of joy. They are loving and eager to please, love to play and cuddle, and are excellent training students. A cross between Labrador Retrievers and Mini or Toy Poodles, the Mini Labradoodle may take after one parent breed or the other in appearance or they may have their own unique look with an added bonus of a hypoallergenic coat. We breed multigenerational Australian Labradoodles and American Labradoodles. Our goal is producing loving Australian Labradoodle puppies and American Labradoodle puppies to add to your family: with hypo allergenic qualities, beautiful wavy fleeces and curles and exceptionally smart. A smart dog is a happy dog, they are easily trained which adds to the enjoyment of your new family member. We have chocolate Australian labradoodle puppies for sale, chocolate parti Australian labradoodle puppies for sale merle Australian labradoodle puppies for sale and many other color Australian labradoodles for sale. Our puppies will be smart like their parents who know both hand signals as well as voice commands. Many of our past puppies have become service dogs for Epileptic Seizure Services, Hospice Services, and other Service related settings. Why do our dogs make such Great Service Dog Candidates, our wonderful Rocky passes his wonderful calm demeanor to all of his puppies. Also, many people love the look of our Merle labradoodles - They are absolutely stunning. We tend to have clients in the Chattanooga, Tennessee and Huntsville, Alabama areas that have a found interest in our Miniature Australian Labradoodles and clients in Florida are particularly interested in our Merle Australian Labradoodles. Of course clients in Dallas Texas and parts of Illinois have added our Standard size Australian Labradoodles to there households. Whether clients are on vacation or simply enjoying the local park, It's exciting when we hear reports from our owners that they ran into another Australian Labradoodle that turns out to be a Lord and Lady Labradoodle all over the country. And clients never cease to tell stories of how people they meet rant and rave over there Lord and Lady Australian Labradoodle. Serving Atlanta and the South East for 12 years! The Australian Labradoodle is different from all other labradoodles In the mids, The Australian Guide Dog Association received an inquiry from a blind lady requesting a guide dog that would not cause her allergies to flare. To achieve a hypoallergenic dog they needed to breed their proven Labradors to a dog that was already non-shedding, hence the Standard Poodle. The resulting Labradoodles subsequently have been bred to each other, continuing the multi-generational tradition without ever having to go back to the parent breed of the Labrador or Poodle. Even when the other types of Labradoodles are bred on for generations, the result is not an Australian Labradoodle, as the attributes of the infused breeds were not included in their ancestry. We have also produced many therapy and service dogs in Atlanta and the surrounding areas. Our puppies are birthed in our home and raised in our acre farm in the suburbs of Atlanta. Labradoodle puppies for adoption Atlanta Georgia. Australian Labradoodles near me Thank you to all of our Families. These puppies are very dark chocolate. They have been raised with small children and other dogs. These puppies will be medium in size, lbs. They will be UTD on Vaccines, de wormings, bordatella, and will be microchipped. Our puppies are socialized daily with small children and other dogs in our home. They will also be crate trained. Contact me for more information. Their puppies will be small mediums lbs. The lowest generation we are now breeding are F3 Labradoodles. We breed American and Australian Multigenerational Labradoodle puppies. In order to keep our lines clean no back breeding or line breeding when breeding the higher generation Labradoodle puppies, ie; 4th, 5th and higher, it is our choice to go back to the original infusion of the 2nd generation or higher Cock-a-Poo as well as The poodle. Our minature Labradoodles are bred down naturally starting with the Standard Poodle and English Stature Labrador Retriever within our own program…. Our Labradoodle puppies are raised in our home with lots of daily TLC. T-Touch stimulation socialization. Many of our puppies placed go on to train as therapy dogs. We also have quite a few Certified Service Dogs. We travel back and forth between Sunny South Florida and South Carolina with all our Labradoodle puppy litters once vaccinated. As well as any other states necessary. No destination is too far to insure the safety of our Labradoodle puppies. Hopefully you will find our website informative and if you have further questions do not hesitate in contacting us any time. My cell phone is the easiest way to reach me. Marlene Sapp.

It is important for senior dogs to have a feeding routine, that the food bowl remain in the same area of the house so that they know where to find it, and that they have a rug or yoga mat to stand on while eating to avoid slipping or having trouble standing on hard floors. If your senior dog has gone longer than 24 hours without eating, they should see their veterinarian for a thorough physical examination and possible diagnostics to investigate the cause of their loss of appetite. Is Your Dog a Puppy? Small breed puppies, especially, are at a high risk of hypoglycemia low blood sugar and should be watched closely for signs of lethargy or collapse if they are not eating. If this happens, they should be treated on an emergency basis. Some puppies may not like larger kibble, as it can be hard for their puppy teeth to chew, especially if they are just transitioning to solid food. This can be remedied by mixing in water and letting it soak to create more of a porridge consistency, or the kibble can be mixed with canned food as well. If your puppy still will not eat, they should be seen right away by a veterinarian. If they are also lethargic, vomiting, or having diarrhea, they should be seen on an emergency basis. A newly adopted dog can take days or weeks to settle into their new home. It is important to ensure that they are given a quiet place to eat, away from other pets or children that may interrupt them. However, if they are lethargic, vomiting, or having diarrhea, or go more than 48 hours without eating anything, they should be examined by a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Did Anything Change in Your Household? Some dogs may be sensitive enough that a change in their environment may cause inappetence. Examples include a new addition to the family whether a new pet or a new baby , construction, having people over, or even a change in the location of the food and water bowls. Some dogs with separation anxiety even expect their loved one to be in the room while they eat, and will stop eating if their human leaves the room. While this is not necessarily a health concern, it is a sign that your dog may have severe anxiety that needs to be addressed. Calming chews such as Composure or Solliquin may be helpful, and calming pheromone collars or diffusers such as Adaptil can be beneficial as well. However, if you are concerned that your dog may have severe separation anxiety, consider consulting with a board-certified veterinary behaviorist for help. Did You Switch Dog Foods? This also allows your dog to get used to the new food over time, rather than making a sudden switch. Is Your Dog Pregnant or in Heat? Early in pregnancy , your dog may have a reduced or absent appetite. If your dog is in the middle or late part of her gestation, she may eat less because her stomach has less room to expand due to the presence of puppies, but she should make up for this by eating a smaller amount more frequently. Regardless of what point of gestation your dog is in, if she has not eaten in over 24 hours, your veterinarian should be called right away to ensure that everything is okay. Dogs in heat may also have a decreased appetite, which is considered normal. However, if she goes longer than 48 hours without eating anything, she should be checked by her veterinarian. If she is lethargic, vomiting, having diarrhea, or drinking and urinating more than usual, she should be seen by her veterinarian right away, as this could indicate an infection in the uterus known as pyometra. Is Your Dog Diabetic? If your dog is diabetic and will not eat, this could be an indication that something is seriously wrong. If your veterinarian advised you to give a half dose of insulin if your dog skips one meal, do so, but alert your veterinarian immediately if your dog skips another meal. If your diabetic dog skips a meal, is lethargic, nonresponsive, or vomiting or having diarrhea, they should be seen by a veterinarian immediately, as this could be an indication of hypoglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis, both of which are life-threatening if not treated right away. It is not unusual for your dog to skip a meal or two after a surgery. You may try tempting your dog to eat with a spoonful of canned food or boneless, skinless, boiled chicken on top of their kibble. Better yet, ask your veterinarian for a few cans of a prescription gastrointestinal diet to feed for the first few days after surgery. These foods are highly palatable, are easily digestible, and can help counteract some of the gastrointestinal upset that can happen after surgery and anesthesia. If your dog had oral or facial surgery, your veterinarian may recommend feeding only canned food for two or more weeks. This also means that your dog should not receive hard treats or chew on hard toys until they are declared healed at their recheck appointment. If your dog is refusing to eat the prescribed canned food, reach out to your veterinarian in case there are any post-operative complications. Heat canned food for a few seconds in the microwave make sure to take it out of the metal can and put it into a microwave-safe bowl. Canned food can become scorching hot quickly, so feel the food first to avoid any burned tongues. Try mixing some plain, boneless, skinless boiled chicken and rice with their kibble to encourage them to eat. Add a probiotic such as Purina Fortiflora or Advita on top of the food. Not only can this make the food more palatable, but it can also help any inflamed or irritated intestine heal by rebalancing a healthy gastrointestinal flora. If you have tried these tricks and your dog continues to refuse his food, he should be seen by his veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Unless explicitly prescribed by your veterinarian, your dog should not be given any over-the-counter gastrointestinal medications like Imodium or Pepto Bismol , as these could cause serious side effects or even interact with medications that your veterinarian may want to give. It is best to consult with your veterinarian before attempting to treat symptoms at home. Featured image: iStock. Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? See if you can find some that would correspond to what your mutt is experiencing. And Pugs are usually greatly affected by rising temperatures as they have ingrained breathing problems they inherit from their ancestors. Because of their peculiar-shaped heads and muzzles, as well as very narrow airways, Pugs will have a harder time inhaling hot air. A pet parent will notice some heavy Pug panting if it becomes too hot. It can be so bad, to the point of developing seizures and heatstrokes. Dehydration: It kind of goes hand-in-hand with being overheated. Normally, during the summer, a dog might have to drink a lot more than in the winter. The reason is that most of the moisture evaporates with sweat and while panting. Yes, you heard it, pooches sweat just like humans do! The only difference is that their sweat glands are located on their paws and noses. It may surprise you, but they do sweat in the armpit area as well! Hence, your adorable Pug creature will have to drink aqua a lot more often to avoid possible dehydration. Planning a trip to the park? Make sure to bring plenty of H2O with you to hydrate both yourself and your playful buddy. Separation Anxiety: A very common reason for seeing a sad Pug puppy. Some of them cannot handle when a pet parent has to leave for a few hours, they just go berserk. An owner may observe excessive whining, feet-biting, and nervously running back and forth. Not a pleasant sight to see if you ask me. Even worse if one of the parents leaves the household due to a divorce or hospitalization. All hounds are creatures of habit and bond fast with their masters. Sometimes they become attached to one parent more than the other, actually. It depends on who spends more time with a pup during the day. It stops eating, is always sad, prefers to be in isolation, and loses interest in previously enjoyed activities. Notice such signs? Time to pay a visit to your local vet or a canine trainer. Even though canine depression is not as well-researched as the human one, pooches exhibit the same symptoms as affected two-legged would. Hidden Illness: Sometimes a Pug is not eating and is lethargic because there might be something bothering it physically. It could be a kidney issue, stomach trouble, or even a tooth infection. Possible signs besides not eating may include prolonged whining, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and constipation. If you notice any of these signs, it is best to bring your flat-faced pooch to the vet without delay. Injury: Since Pugs are prone to injuries because of their skeletal peculiarities, no wonder they get injured easily. If you notice any limping, wobbly walking, and wining while stepping on one of the paws, it may indicate that they might have a strained muscle, an injured joint, or a fractured bone. You might want to bring your fur pal to the vet immediately for some much-needed X-rays. Boredom: It is simple as that. Your Pug might be moody just because it has nobody to play with. In case you have to leave your precious friend home alone for a while, try to scatter a few of its favorite toys around to make his past time somewhat enjoyable. The platform has hundreds of great sitters all over the US, therefore it will be easy to find a good match. A sleep-deprived pooch will be eating less, will have less energy to participate in its favorite daily activities, and be sleeping a lot during the day. Old Age: this one is not a result of an injury, depression, or insomnia. Your Pug is, unfortunately, getting old and its body is slowing down day after day. A pet parent might notice that the older a canine companion becomes, the less energy it has and its appetite changes drastically. Talk to your vet about a possible solution for such behavior, like prescription medications, changes in a daily diet, and administering food supplements to keep an aging pooch as healthy as possible. If you started noticing some alarming signs like appetite loss, diarrhea, dehydration, or moodiness, take a Pug pal to a trusted vet to find out what the reason might be. After all, the happier a fluffy companion will be, the happier its owner will be as well. Family Dog Expert Author Hi there! My passion for dogs drives me to share my knowledge and expertise, helping families build strong, loving bonds with their four-legged friends. Welcome to Sirdoggie A blog crafted with love for all dog lovers and their families! This section will cover when a Pug puppy or dog has a drastically decreased appetite or out-right refuses to eat. Overview When a dog suddenly stops eating, this is something that should be addressed right away. Though Pugs may appear to have extra weight on them which could help during a phase of under-eating , the main reason that a Pug has the shape that he does is not due to substantial amounts of body fat but is instead due to skeletal body structure barrel-shaped. Refusing to eat can have ill effects very quickly. In many cases, a Pug will not eat as a result of a health concern or other issue that needs to be resolved. But then, not eating exasperates the initial problem or creates an entirely different one as the dog isn't receiving the fuel and nutrients that he needs. Red Flag Signs of Refusing Food Note that while a sudden stop of food intake is a serious issue, this is particularly true for growing puppies. Metabolic calorie requirements are higher with pups; about 55 calories per pound as opposed to 35 to 40 calories per pound for adults. Therefore: If you have a Pug puppy that has stopped eating, this warrants an immediate veterinary visit. This cannot wait for the next day. Health issue. This may be due to gastrointestinal upset, such as an episode of vomiting; most dogs don't want to eat afterward. However, it can also be due to another sort of injury or illness. The majority of canine health problems literally everything from pain due to hip dysplasia to diabetes to organ failure all have decreased appetite or refusal to eat as a possible symptom. This also include dental issues; infection or tooth decay can make eating very painful. Therefore, if you know that your Pug is recovering from something that may have temporarily affected his appetite, offer a bland diet which your puppy or dog may find more appealing and that will be easy on the stomach. Typically, this is one protein plain white chicken without skin and one starch sweet potato or white rice. And, if any health condition is suspected, you'll need to bring your Pug to the vet. Trying to fix an appetite problem that is only there as a secondary symptom will be done in vain and can risk your puppy or dog's health. Major change in activity levels. A big part of what controls how many calories a dog needs is how much he burns off. A fairly active adult Pug needs something in the range of 40 calories per pound of body weight, but a sedentary dog would need far fewer. Age plays a role to some degree as well, with requirements slowly decreasing as a dog enters his senior years. If there is a reason that your Pug is moving around a lot less, like recovery from an injury, keep following the vet's advice. Once your Pug is back to normal, appetite should come back. And, if your Pug is staying inside for a fixable reason, get your dog back on an exercise schedule. Regular exercise is vital to good health, both short and long-term. It keeps the heart healthy, helps maintain muscle tone, helps fend off a wide range of diseases, keeps stools moving along, and stimulates the appetite. Aim for at least two minute walks per day at a pace considered brisk for your Pug and at least a minute session of cardio, like fetch. If your Pug is out-of-shape, start with a shorter duration and work your way up. Stress or depression. High-stress situations like severe separation anxiety or marked mood changes such as when losing a canine or human family member can cause a dog to stop eating. Other causes may be moving to a new home, being in new surroundings like a new doggie day care , being cared for by someone unfamiliar like a friend that's stepping in or a pet sitter , or traveling with you on vacation. For being home alone, take necessary steps to cure separation anxiety. For temporary causes of depression or stress, appetite should come back as the situation resolves itself. For permanent changes such as loss of a family member or being in a new home, time is often the cure. It can help to offer your Pug something mentally refreshing like an outing to the beach or a walk in a new area such as a hiking trail, etc. Change in food station elements. Dogs are typically creatures of habit, so if you've moved your Pug's eating area, if you got your dog a new bowl , or if there's a change in vibe more noise, foot traffic, etc. If you made changes in your Pug's best interest, this should resolve itself. If there are negative changes like moving the bowls to a chaotic location or perhaps too close to the dishes of another pet, address this as needed. Type of food. By no means will all dogs just eat whatever is given to them. To some level, our canine family members have the right to have preferences. This is not to say that your Pug should dictate what you feed him; but, it's okay to make a few adjustments to get your dog eating again. Several studies have proven that dogs are able to sense protein and fat levels in food. In addition, if a dog ate a certain kibble and developed a queasy stomach not enough to vomit, but enough to make him feel under-the-weather , you may not have noticed anything wrong but your Pug may be reluctant to eat that food again. Both of these reasons alone are enough to reevaluate what you're feeding your Pug. But, add to this the very important element that low-quality foods can have severe health effects both now and in the future. A few recommendations include: 1. Wellness Complete Health for Small Breeds This is a quality dry kibble that is formulated for small breeds like the Pug. This is grain-free; though note that it does have rice most dogs tolerate rice very well and it's often vet-recommended to help calm a queasy stomach. This has a base of turkey, chicken, and salmon. There are good levels of omega-3, this has no wheat, corn, soy, meat by-products, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, and is made in the USA. This is a base of chicken and turkey with excellent levels of omega-3 via salmon oil and flaxseed, and has added glucosomine for joint health. This also has no wheat, corn, soy, meat by-products, or artificial colors, flavors and preservatives, and is made in the USA. This has 4 formulas: lamb, beef, chicken, and salmon. This has probiotics and prebiotic fiber for optimal digestion, omega fatty acids, glucosmine, and antioxidants. There is no wheat, corn, soy, meat by-products, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, and it is made in the USA. Some dogs may flat-out refuse to eat dry food, especially if a change from wet to dry was just made. A strictly wet food diet is not beneficial for the teeth and can lead to runny bowels. So, dry is indeed best. If you having been trying to make this switch and believe this is the cause of your Pug not eating, do this in a gradual way. If this is an issue of suddenly refusing to eat but the food has always been a dry kibble, this points to health issues, including possible dental problems, as noted in point 1. Seemingly not eating, but in fact an issue of being picky. It's common to say that your Pug won't eat when in fact it's more a matter of being finicky. And, it's understandable since as a loving owner, any changes in appetite get your attention right away. In these cases, you may wish to refer to the Pug is a Picky Eater article. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. If your Pug is ravenously hungry , despite offering good amounts, this is covered separately in its own article. If your Pug overeats and you feel that you are part of the problem i. You may be filling the bowl to the brim or continuously giving out snacks and treats. The result, most likely, will be a Pug that becomes overweight, an issue that can lead to all sorts of health problems. What to do: 1. Use the right sized bowl. Be sure to obtain a stainless-steel bowl since plastic bowls can lead to issues including allergic reaction and gradual discoloration of the nose. If you are using a portion pacer to help your Pug slow down his eating pace , allow for a bowl large enough for that to fit inside. So, write down the times and the serving sizes for each meal and each snack and then do not deviate from that. Aim for 3 meals per day and 3 to 4 snacks dry in between those meals to keep your Pug satiated. The only thing that can be given spontaneously is training treats see ahead, point 4. If your Pug begs for food, do not give in. If your Pug bothers you for food outside of the 3 meals and 3 to 4 snacks, draw attention to something else. You can keep a few toys hidden out of view and offer those, take your Pug outside for a game of fetch, head out for a walk, etc. Take care with reward treats. Reward treats are much different than snacks. However, training treats are designed to be very small since they are given out repeatedly during training. The idea is to offer a little burst of flavor that does not affect the appetite, yet sends a strong signal for a job well done command training, housebreaking, heeling, etc. So, these are important, and you should be giving them to your Pug to mark good behavior. But, be sure to offer the right type small, healthy, no additives. For adult Pugs, and especially those that tend to carry a few extra pounds, Fruitables Skinny Minis Soft Dog Treats are fantastic; these are low-calorie yet serve their purpose by being super-delicious. Note that when a Pug flat-out refuses to eat , this is a topic covered separately. Eating, but not as much as expected, is covered here. With puppies, this eating problem can develop due to there being rapid growth, but a Pug puppy can have trouble ingesting enough food to keep up with that. Only so much food can fit in the tummy at one time. With adults, this may be a matter of being a picky eater, which is covered up ahead, yet there are other aspects to explore. This is not to say the food itself is offering the right amount of protein and other nutrients. If you still believe your Pug is not eating as much as needed: 1. Know how much your Pug weighs. Never guess how much your Pug weighs, because serving size for manufactured dog food is based on weight. If you have an accurate scale at home, you can do weigh your Pug by weighing yourself first, then weighing yourself while holding your dog. If you have a very young pup, a kitchen scale may be sufficient. If you do not trust your scale to this degree or do not have an accurate scale, all it takes is a quick trip to the vet to find out. Most vets will not charge a steep fee for a fast weight check. Once you know what your puppy or dog weighs, read the labeling on the kibble. These are not arbitrary numbers; most are pretty spot-on. Do note, however, that if a puppy or dog is not as active as he should be, calorie requirements may not be as high. Other things such as health status or even how much a dog paces can affect requirements. Note that for most brands, serving recommendations on the kibble assume that you are also offering 3 to 4 small snacks per day. Those are the daily amounts, spread out over 2 to 3 meals. In some cases, there will be a need for prescribed medications to stimulate the appetite. If the brand you are giving is causing slight upset stomach issues not enough to cause vomiting, but enough to throw off the appetite you may not have considered this, but it can, of course, cause a dog to be reluctant to chow down. These are different than snacks. These are meant to reward good behavior and are designed to be small as to not interfere with appetite. Regular exercise helps in a number of ways, including stimulating the appetite. Aim for two walks per day 20 to 30 minutes at a pace that is brisk for your Pug and one minute cardio session such as fetch. This can become a trap for many owners. You hand-feed your dog just a few times and he expects it all the time. In fact, he may demand it and refuse to eat unless you do this. Reassess the bowl to make sure it is one that your Pug is comfortable with. Unfortunately, while a raised bowl is a good choice for many breeds, it is NOT with this breed due to the risk of bloat. However, an over-sized bowl or one that is too deep that causes a dog to have trouble reaching his food or puts the neck into an uncomfortable position may be contributing to the problem. Assess the eating area. Dogs can feel quite vulnerable when eating. Remain firm and do not give in. Once you have followed points 1 and 2, place the kibble in the bowl and walk away. At first, your Pug will resist and will be assuming that you will concede. You will need to wait him out. It is canine instinct to survive and very few dogs will refuse to eat when it comes down to it. If your Pug refuses to budge, each hour, remove the bowl for 20 minutes and then place it back down. If this lasts for 3 hours and your Pug outright refuses his food because you are not hand-feeding him, this points to a more significant problem. There may be a condition that is causing discomfort when the Pug positions himself to eat from the bowl, which may include the back, hips, or neck. Dogs typically like the taste of wet canned food over dry food; however, dry kibble is better since wet food does not help keep teeth strong and can cause runny stools. As a side note, if you are feeding wet and wish to remain doing so, giving daily dental chews and performing at-home dental care will be more important than ever. Having trouble with dry food can be classified into two categories: 1. If your Pug merely prefers the taste of wet over dry, but you want to switch to a dry diet, do this in gradual increments. Fish oil is incredibly beneficial, particularly for the Pug breed; it keeps skin and coat healthy, can help with issues related to allergies dry skin, itchy skin, skin sores , is an excellent supplement to help prevent arthritis, and can reduce pain and inflammation in dogs that already have arthritis or joint conditions such as hip dysplasia or patella luxation. This comes in a handy pump, so it is super-easy to add a dash to a meal about 1 pump, exact serving size is listed on this and is based on weight. If your Pug literally has trouble chewing dry food, this points to an issue with the teeth. Any sort of infection or decay can make it very difficult for a dog to grind down on hard dry food. Dental issues are not something to be ignored; infection can spread up into the sinuses and throughout the body sepsis , which can be fatal. Therefore, signs of discomfort when eating hard dry kibble warrants a veterinary examination. Pugs, being relatively small compared to humans, will eat less food than we do. However, if a Pug is truly gulping down his food at a fast rate, this is a problem that should be addressed. Eating fast or drinking fast are top triggers of bloat gastric dilatation volvulus which is exceedingly dangerous and can be fatal. This is particularly common if two pets are eating too close to each other, but can also happen if the dishes are in a spot with foot traffic, people sitting or talking too close, etc. So, provide your Pug with a stress-free zone. Encourage slower eating. These are designed to displace the kibble via a safe protrusion. These are orbs that are placed in a bowl that forces a dog to eat around it. It works for some dogs, but others can quickly become pros at nosing it out of the way. Read further about Pugs that are picky eaters. In most cases, this can happen if the kitchen is a very noisy room, if there are other pets in the home and the Pug feels as if they need to compete for food, or if people sit or walk too close to where the food dish is. How to help: 1. Offer a peaceful eating area. This should be a spot with no one walking by, without loud noises, and without people talking to your dog or trying to pat or play with him while he eats. When your dog takes any food out of the dish, immediately take the food and place it back into the dish. Get ready for your dog to test you; he may try to move it multiple times before finally giving in to your request. While this can seem like a game, it is not, so try to not give the impression that you are amused by this. Stay consistent. For this, no food, not even snacks, should be given outside of the designated eating area. Do a thorough sweep of the interior and exterior of the home. Pick up anything and everything that you possibly can, that can be moved to a new spot, up higher. For things you cannot move — Tie up loose electrical cords and keep them out of sight. Run cords through purchased spiral cable wrap, cord concealers, or even PVC pipe to keep them inaccessible. But, keep in mind that these sorts of sprays are based on bitter agents like apple or lemon and for some reason some dogs don't mind the taste. This is sized for small pups, has textured nubs to 'scratch' the itch of erupting teeth, and is flavored to keep a pup focused on it. They first mouth something and then decide if it's worth their time. Some of these things may be inadvertently swallowed and other things, like pebbles, may be intentionally swallowed due in part to their salty taste. Know that you are in charge. Have your Pug on a leash and harness not leash and collar. With your Pug wearing a harness, you can have full control over your Pug, keep the leash taut and quickly move him away before he eats anything by moderately tugging on the leash, without fear of injuring him because the harness prevents neck injury. If you are looking for a harness, the Puppia RiteFit Harness is fantastic. It's sturdy, breathable, adjustable, and easy to put on and take off. If this happens a lot, every 3 to 4 times offer a training treat if you do it each time, your Pug may learn to fake going for something just to get the yummy treat. Some dogs can be very protective of their food. They may growl at, snap at, or even lunge at people or other animals that are nearby. Assess if there is an aggression issue aside from this food issue. This may include your dog growling when you try to groom him, snapping at you when you take away a toy, etc. If so, training will be in order to instill proper hierarchy. Assess if you are feeding your dog enough. If your Pug is right on the borderline of receiving enough food, he may very well be maintaining his weight but is extremely hungry at each meal time. This alone can cause a dog to feel over-protective of his food. Offer a stress-free eating environment. Have the dish set up in a quiet corner where there is no foot traffic, people chatting away or watching TV close by, pets running around, etc. Dogs deserve to eat in peace without being bothered. Desensitize your Pug to having you near the bowl. This can be done by tossing special treats into the bowl as your dog eats. In this way, you are teaching him that you coming nearby during mealtime can be a good thing. However, every now and then, repeat this so that lessons are not forgotten. However, this oatmeal and aloe combo is also great for fixing minor to moderate itchy skin. The Tea Tree and Aloe Vera formula is also for itching, and is geared more towards hot spots or skin that is extremely sensitive. You may also like: Pugs with Itchy Skin - The top leading causes of the frustrating problem, along with exact steps to resolve things. Best Shampoos for Pugs - What you use during the bath will have lasting effects on skin and coat health, how long your Pug smells good, and more. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. An issue that is a particular concern for many pet owners is how long can a Pug go without eating. Believe it or not, a healthy dog can days without eating before experiencing any serious side effects. That being said, if they are refusing food and water, you should contact your vet immediately. They can go without food for a few days, however, they need to drink water to survive, as they will die of dehydration before they starve. If you want to know how much to feed your Pug, read this article. If your dog is not and is experiencing diarrhea, vomiting or both, you need to get her to a veterinarian immediately to be diagnosed and treated. Upset Tummy Like us, dogs can get an upset tummy that takes away their hunger. If your dog is suffering from an upset digestive system, you may notice gurgling and churning sounds. Some people even say that a dog with an upset stomach will eat grass to help make them feel better. The normal body temperature for humans is .You may also notice other signs such as; lack of appetite, coughing, vomiting, or shivering. Gingivitis or Dental Diseases If your Pug is dealing with tooth infections, swollen gums, or a loose tooth, it will cause your dog to have difficulty chewing and wanting to skip their next meal. Look for any unusual pawing at their mouth or excessive drooling. New Environment Did you recently move into a new home or apartment? If so, it can take some time for your dog to adjust to their new surroundings. Once your dog feels comfortable in their new environment, they should feel comfortable eating on their regular schedule. You can help make them feel more comfortable by giving them their favorite toys and bed to help acclimate them to their new home. Behavioral Problems Like kids, dogs can hold their appetite if they are trying to prove a point. Other Behavior Issues Did you get a new dog? Is your pooch eating amongst aggressive dogs? Maybe the dog bowl is too high for them to eat comfortably? Is your Pug dehydrated? Stale Food? Many dry dog foods claim to have a shelf life of 12 months. Stress Dogs love routine and any unusual changes can affect your pooch to become upset and stop eating. This can include going on vacation or getting a new pet. If you have to make any changes, try to make them gradually to help make your pet feel comfortable throughout the changes. When adopting a Pug, make sure you feed them the same food they are used to. Once they are comfortable in their new surroundings, you can mix their old food with their new food to transition them to a new diet. If your dog has an upset tummy or just not feeling good, they will usually be fine up to hours without eating. As long as they are not showing signs of serious illness, you can try feeding them some boiled rice with white rice. In addition, they will likely administer intravenous fluids to keep your dog nourished. Every mammal needs to consume food in order to build up energy. Just like humans, dogs can go a few days without eating. However, some dogs will not be able to live without food as long as healthy dogs and they are: Active and Energetic Pets Diabetic Dogs Old Dogs If your Pug starts losing weight all of a sudden and is showing signs of being underweight. Most dogs will stop eating when they are feeling sick and it is affecting their digestive system that causes pain, vomiting, or diarrhea. Like us, they can get bored eating the same food day in day out. It could be something as simple as their dog food is stale and your dog no longer finds it appetizing. Even though I had it stored in an airtight container. Or maybe your kids have been feeding your dog table scraps and they are no longer interested in their dog food? Either way, a healthy dog will eventually eat and will NOT starve themselves. You can leave their food out for them to eat when they are ready. You can even pick it up and put it back until their next meal, to see if they are hungry enough to eat at that point. Dogs will not starve themselves, but they will hold out on eating as long as possible. A healthy dog will usually be hungry enough to start eating after about two days of not eating. Top Recommended Products Pet Plate : Treat your dog to almost homemade dog food that is customized to their unique needs. Most dogs will start eating again, without you having to worry. It is important to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues. In the meantime, you can try offering different types of food, serving smaller portions, and adding enticing toppings to make mealtime more appealing for your Pug. Dental issues Pugs are notorious for dental issues due to their brachycephalic facial structure, which can lead to crowding of teeth and dental diseases. Painful teeth and gums can make eating uncomfortable for your pug, causing them to avoid their food. Regular dental care and check-ups with your veterinarian are crucial to catch any dental problems early on. Additionally, consider opting for softer, moistened food to make mealtime easier on their mouths. Your pug might be sick A loss of appetite in pugs could be an early sign of an underlying health problem. Gastrointestinal issues, infections, allergies, or even systemic illnesses may be the culprit. Keep an eye out for other symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea , lethargy, or changes in behavior. Read more: Common Pug Sick Symptoms. You may have changed their food recently Pugs can be creatures of habit, and introducing a new type of food abruptly can make them reluctant to eat. If you need to switch their diet, do it gradually over 7 to 10 days. Start by mixing a small portion of the new food with their current food and gradually increase the proportion of the new food each day. This will give their digestive system time to adjust to the change, minimizing the chances of an upset stomach. Changes in routine Moving to a new home or even rearranging furniture can be a major stressor for your pug. Dogs are creatures of habit, and sudden changes can leave them feeling anxious and unsettled. To help them adjust, create a safe and familiar space for them with their bed, toys, and water bowl in a quiet area of the new home. Be patient and give them plenty of love and attention during this transition period. Stick to their usual routine as much as possible, including feeding times, to provide them with a sense of stability. Emotional Distress Pugs are affectionate and can form deep emotional bonds with their human family members. Any significant changes in the household, such as the introduction of a new pet or family member, can cause emotional distress for your pug. Engage in activities your pug enjoys, such as playing fetch or cuddling on the couch, to strengthen your bond and ease their anxiety. Food Allergies or Sensitivities Just like any other dog breed, pugs can develop food allergies or sensitivities. Common allergens include beef, chicken, wheat, and dairy products. Learn more about pug allergies and skin allergies. Presence of Intestinal Worms Intestinal worms are a common problem in dogs, especially puppies, and can cause a wide range of symptoms, including loss of appetite. Pugs, in particular, are prone to developing stomach issues due to worms like roundworms. These worms can cause stomach swelling, diarrhea, vomiting, and an overall loss of appetite. If left untreated, the worms can multiply and lead to serious complications. If you suspect your pug has intestinal worms, you should pay a visit to the vet for diagnosis and treatment. The vet will likely recommend a fecal exam to determine the type of worms present and how severe the infestation is. Depending on the severity, the vet may prescribe medication that will get rid of the worms and alleviate any gastrointestinal symptoms. Spoiled with Treats Pugs have an endearing charm that can make it hard to resist spoiling them with treats. However, excessive treats or table scraps can lead to them holding out for tastier morsels instead of their regular meals. Human food can also be unhealthy or inappropriate for dogs and may lead to digestive issues. Stick to high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs and consult your vet for appropriate treats options. Learn more about dog stomach gurgling and not eating. Boredom with Food Just like humans, dogs can grow tired of eating the same food every day. Introducing variety into their diet can make mealtime more enjoyable for your pug. If you want to switch their food, mix small amounts of the new food with their current food over several days, gradually increasing the proportion of the new food. This method helps your pug adjust to the change without causing gastrointestinal upset. Stress or Anxiety Pugs are sensitive creatures, and changes in their environment or routine can cause them to feel stressed or anxious. Moving to a new home, the addition of a new family member, or even changes in their daily schedule can trigger these emotions. When a pug is stressed, they might lose their appetite as eating becomes a lower priority for them. To help them overcome this, create a safe and comforting environment. Provide a quiet space where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. Spend quality time with them, offer gentle reassurance, and use positive reinforcement to build their confidence. Learn more about how much a pug should eat. Ways to get a Pug to start eating Getting a Pug to start eating can be a challenging task, especially if they are picky eaters or have lost their appetite due to illness or stress. You can also try feeding your Pug small, frequent meals instead of one large meal. Make mealtime fun: Turn mealtime into a game by hiding treats or bits of food around the house or in a puzzle toy. Add wet food or broth: Adding wet food or broth can make the food more appetizing and appealing to your Pug. Feed a bland diet: If your Pug has a sensitive stomach or is recovering from an illness, try feeding them a bland diet of boiled chicken and white rice. Create a calm environment: Pugs can be sensitive to their environment, so try to create a calm and relaxing atmosphere during mealtime. Hand-feed your Pug: Offer your Pug small pieces of food by hand, as the bonding experience can help encourage them to eat. Use food to reward good behavior: Use treats and praise to encourage your Pug to eat their meals. Talk to your veterinarian: If your Pug still refuses to eat, talk to your veterinarian as there may be an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed. Related Questions Why is my Pug refusing to eat? There can be a number of reasons why your Pug might be refusing to eat, ranging from health issues to changes in their environment. Some potential causes could include dental problems, digestive issues, a change in diet, or stress. Signs that your Pug may be experiencing health problems could include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and weight loss. What if my Pug is simply a picky eater? Some dogs can be very finicky when it comes to their food, and Pugs can be especially notorious for being picky eaters. Try experimenting with different brands and types of food to see if your Pug has a preference, or consider adding some wet food or meat to their dry kibble to make it more appealing. Should I be worried if my Pug goes a day without eating? Can stress cause a Pug to stop eating? Changes in routine or environment, separation anxiety, or other forms of stress can cause your Pug to lose their appetite. If you suspect that stress may be the cause, try to identify and address the source of the stress to help your Pug feel more comfortable. What can I do to encourage my Pug to eat? There are several things you can try to help encourage your Pug to eat, such as using a different food bowl, feeding your Pug at regular intervals i. You can also try feeding your Pug in a quiet, low-stress environment to make mealtime more pleasant for them. Learn more about what you can feed a pug. Conclusion In conclusion, when your pug refuses to eat, it can be a frustrating experience. With the right approach and a bit of patience, you can help your pug regain their appetite and enjoy their meals once again. So, if your furry friend is refusing to eat, take action now and seek professional advice from your veterinarian. Remember, a healthy and happy pug is always worth the effort! I love researching, writing, and teaching other pet owners how to care for their pets.

Intelligent Pug Characteristics Pugs are extremely playful and love to interact with their owners. They also get along well with other animals, especially cats and other dogs. They're most known for: Friendly Easy going Health Issues Because these dogs have only been bred for a few years, there has been no study on whether there are any specific health issues being produced from these crosses. In order to get a better idea of which health problems a puppy might face, you must research the parent breeds involved, and take a look at health issues that are common to them. The average reported lifespan of these dogs is between 12 to 15 years. Boxers can be prone to cardiomyopathy , bloat, hip dysplasia , and hypothyroidism , among other possible health threats. Pugs can be prone to obesity, breathing problems , eye problems, and skin problems. Boston Terriers are prone to eye problems , heart problems, epilepsy, and skin problems. Fox Terriers can be prone to Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, patellar luxation, congenital hypothyroidism with goiter, and primary lens luxation, among other health issues. Rat Terriers can be prone to allergies, dental problems, and patellar luxation. Corgis are prone to eye problems, glaucoma , and progressive retinal atrophy. Beagles are prone to epilepsy , intervertebral disk disease, and tumbling puppy syndrome. English Bulldogs are prone to a long list of health concerns, including obesity, heat stroke, elongated soft palate , heart disease, and more. Keep in mind that a particular pup might never face one of these health issues, but the possibility could be there in the gene pool, so it's good to be aware. Are you InTheKnow? Sign up for our newsletter featuring all the latest stories and products we love. Invalid email I agree to receive email communications from LoveToKnow. The breeding procedures used to create this mix are extremely controversial. Many " miniature " dogs have been heavily inbred, so it's not uncommon for them to develop genetic disorders or become ill at a young age, even from a reputable breeder. The miniature Boxer is also a high-energy breed that requires a hands-on owner. They aren't meant for owners with sedentary lifestyles or those who reside in apartments. Because the miniature Boxer sheds, it may not be suitable for those looking for a hypoallergenic dog breed. If you understand the cons, there are many pros to this breed. Since they are smaller than Boxers, they are less expensive to feed and easier to care for. They require slightly less exercise than the original breed and can do well in smaller spaces, even if they aren't ideal apartment dogs. This mix is family-friendly, intelligent, eager to please, and easy to train. Also, they're relatively affordable to purchase as puppies. Finding Miniature Boxer Puppies for Sale When looking for a breeder of miniature Boxers, make sure you do your due diligence. Before you decide to do business, take the time to investigate the breeder fully to make sure you'll receive exactly what you're paying for. There are many unscrupulous breeders producing designer dogs, and you want to make sure the breeder can provide a health guarantee. The breeder should demonstrate that they are breeding to create dogs with excellent health and temperament. Because these dogs are not recognized by the top registry organizations and are not bred in large numbers, you may have to search for them online as well as locally through sites such as Craigslist to see if you can locate a breeder. Cost of a Miniature Boxer Puppy Because these dogs are not popular yet, they can be relatively expensive. Dog Clubs The miniature Boxer is not a recognized breed, but it may become one as some point in the future. If you'd like to register your pet with a dog club, both the American Canine Hybrid Club and the Certified Pet Registry take registrations for various crosses that produce this type of dog. Spend Time With These Dogs Before you bring one of these pups home, spend some time at several breeders' kennels so you can get to know the dogs in person. This is the surest way to find out if a Miniature Boxer will fit your lifestyle, as well as which particular cross you prefer. Getting a puppy is a commitment for the life of the dog, so be sure about your choice. Lifespan Sociability If you are considering purchasing a Miniature Boxer puppy, there are a few things to keep in mind before you make a decision. Like most puppies, they have a fair amount of energy, which will most likely last throughout their life. Mini Boxers have a decent lifespan and can live from 12 to 15 years, especially if you care for their physical and mental health, beginning when they are puppies and continuing throughout their life. Even though they are playful, Mini Boxers need a strong leader and early socialization to become the ideal pet. We will dive deeper into specific health issues a little later in the article. There has been a misconception that Boxers are an aggressive breed, so this can be a myth that is carried to the Miniature Boxer. The Mini Boxer is muscular and stocky and may have an aggressive appearance, but once you get to know them, you realize that they are loving and friendly. Unfortunately, only purebred dogs are allowed to be registered through the AKC. They make great guard dogs. The Miniature Boxer is serious about their devotion to their family, so they will alert you if they sense that you or someone they love is in danger. They are social and like to be part of the action, but they can be wary of strangers. Giving them attention is important, and they will show you love in return. If you want a lap dog, then the Mini Boxer is ideal because they would rather snuggle on your lap than anywhere else. As long as they receive attention and can interact with everyone in the household, they will be happy. Mini Boxers are intelligent and learn quickly; providing socialization and training from an early age will ensure that they live up to their full potential. They are alert yet feature a calm and gentle disposition. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They form deep bonds with their family and love children. They are patient with children, and since they have a high energy level, they make ideal playmates. Sometimes their need for chasing the cat may arise, but they are doing it out of playfulness more than being mean. When they are around other animals in the household, they can become friends and include them as part of the family unit. A post shared by Miso the Miniature Boxer lilboxermiso Things to Know When Owning a Miniature Boxer Owning a dog requires you to know how to properly care for them so they can have a happy and healthy life. This section provides further detail about the breed so you are comfortable with their needs and requirements. High-quality dog food that is formulated for medium breeds is ideal, and you can find brands that offer medium-breed puppy food and even senior food that allows you to provide optimal nutrition for all life stages. They are prone to obesity if they consume more calories than required, so make sure you are adjusting their food intake in relation to their activity level. Puppies will have a higher amount of energy, and as your Mini Boxer ages, the level will decrease. However, this breed requires a fair amount of exercise to prevent them from becoming bored and overweight. Playing fetch and other games are ideal for providing one-on-one attention and releasing some energy. Mental stimulation is important too, so teach your Mini Boxer tricks, create an obstacle course, or get a puzzle toy for them to play with. They can be stubborn, but if you remain consistent and patient, they will learn to listen to you. Positive reinforcement with firm rules will teach your Mini Boxer that you are the leader but are also fair and will treat them with respect. The earlier you start, the better results you will receive because there is less chance of bad habits forming. After a hard day of training, your pup will be looking for a comfy spot to lounge. Regular baths will keep them smelling fresh, and cleaning their ears regularly will prevent infections that can affect floppy-eared dogs. However, you need to be proactive and provide the best care, which includes having your hybrid visit the veterinarian as recommended for regular checkups. Minor Conditions.