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This 6-year-old American Bulldog mix has been with us since July , and is looking for his forever home. He is a very old soul who just wants to be a couch potato and would make the perfect dog to snuggle up to for movie nights and afternoon naps. He is very good on a leash as he just wants to take his time on a walk. He would do best in a family with another older dog or a dog who has low energy that he can relax with. He is aloof but friendly with other dogs, if you have another dog at home we recommend that you bring them for a meet and greet to ensure that they get along before taking him home. There is no cost or commitment for this - we provide the supplies, you provide the love! Bandit is up to date on all vaccinations, microchipped, and will be neutered upon adoption or Slumber Party. Each year HSSM houses approximately 10, homeless pets. Every day we are fighting a space capacity crisis as we try to care for the overwhelming amount of abandoned local pets. Please consider visiting our shelter to adopt your next best friend. If you have a question about one of our adoptable animals, please give us a call at , email adoptions hssm. We are located at 25th Ave in Gulfport, MS. Life Span Did You Know? The American Bulldog is a descendant of a generic bulldog type of dog breed brought into the region that is now the Southern United States by working-class immigrants many years ago. These were all-around working dogs used by small farmers and ranchers for several tasks around the farm. They were often found working as catch dogs, stock dogs, and overall farm guardians. When feral pigs were introduced to the New World, they had no natural predators and the population quickly grew out of control. In addition to their farm duties, the settlers found the bulldog-type dog to be the best solution they had for dealing with it. So, the bulldog continued to thrive, especially in the South. Johnson and Alan Scott that we have what we know today as the American Bulldog. Modern American Bulldogs can still be found working as all-around utility dogs, farm dogs, catch dogs, cattle drovers, and more. They can also be found competing in dog sports, working as a guardian, police, or military dog, and are also popular as a family pet. This dog breed is a sweetheart with a gentle, fun-loving nature. The American Bulldog is affectionate and adores their families. They also love children and tend to be good with other animals. American Bulldogs can have a high prey drive, so you will want to make sure you introduce and socialize them properly with other small animals in the household. Due to their protective nature, they can be aloof towards strangers and strange dogs, especially when they are younger. Early socialization can help them be more comfortable navigating their guardian instincts. Overall, this dog breed tends to be confident, social, and are most at ease and relaxed when they are with the people they love. American Bulldogs are an emotional dog breed and thrives on human attention and affection, so they tend to bond strongly with their owners and may come across as clingy sometimes. They will also often convince themselves that they are lap dogs regardless of their size, so make sure you are ready for a lot of love and cuddles with your American Bulldog, drool and all! The American Bulldog is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They are strong, high-energy working dogs that love being around their favorite humans. This makes them better suited to larger homes with space for them to run. They are not generally a good fit for apartment living, but they can adapt as long as they get more than enough exercise and attention. Because they do tend to bond strongly with their owners and want to be near them, they do not tend to do well with long periods of time alone. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, but can adapt to well to most climates. There are some health issues that can be found in specific genetic lines and are not common to the breed overall, but these can be ruled out with genetic tests. Some potential health conditions to be aware of in general with the American Bulldog include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, thyroid disorders, kidney disorders, bone cancer, and eye-related issues like ectropion, entropion, and cherry eye. Talking to the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances can help allay potential concerns. American Bulldogs are highly trainable and eager to please, so they are a good fit for owners of any experience level, including first-time dog owners. They can have a stubborn streak, so a first-time dog owner may want to consider enrolling in puppy training classes. As with any dog breed, early and ongoing training and socialization are important for your American Bulldog puppy to grow into a well-rounded, and a well-behaved, dog. This dog breed has a short coat that is generally smooth. Common coat colors are white and predominately white with patches of brindle, black, or red. More coat color patterns are emerging and becoming more common like all shades of brindle, fawn, brown, red, and more. The American Bulldog is relatively low maintenance and easy to groom and they are light to moderate shedders. They only require a bath as needed. But, you will need to be prepared to deal with some extra drool! Floppy ears tend to trap moisture and dirt, which can lead to ear infections. The ideal dental care for dogs is using an enzyme toothpaste or brushing their teeth every day. Dental hygiene chews or treats, a specially-formulated dental care diet, and more can be used to supplement your dental care efforts. The American Bulldog is an athletic and high-energy dog breed. They love daily walks and plenty of playtime outside. They may even enjoy plenty of other activities with you like swimming, hiking , and more. With their working dog background, this dog breed does need a job to do in order to stay happy and healthy. They also tend to be a good candidate for dog sports like obedience, weight pulling, the Iron Dog competition, and more. A fully-grown American Bulldog usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. An American Bulldog generally lives for years. Chance, one of the canine stars from the Homeward Bound films, was an American Bulldog. Featured American Bulldog Article. Blog About D. Bulldogs Welcome to D. We are home-owned and operated in beautiful southern Mississippi. We have been raising English Bulldogs since .We absolutely love this breed and think they make wonderful pets. We strive to only raise and offer top quality animals that will be cherished as loving family members for many years to come. We do everything we can to ensure our puppies get a good start in life. As long as the puppies are in our care, their vaccinations and de-worming will be up-to-date. We feed them only the highest quality puppy food available. Each puppy will come with its own set of registration papers. About our Puppies All of our puppies have been de-wormed every two weeks from birth, current on vaccinations, and come with two guarantees: First, a 48 hour money back guarantee to be free of life threatening diseases, then a 6 month genetic guarantee. Call for an Appointment Today! All of our animals can be seen by appointment only. Please call us today to set up a time to come by and see our babies and parents. Delivery of animals not available. Shipping of animals available under special circumstances. Please see our FAQs page for more information. Bulldogs Call for appointment or for more information: .By submitting photos to DB Bulldogs, you agree to give DB Bulldogs a commercial use license to use the photos in any and all types of promotional materials. We specialize in Bully-type, also sometimes referred to as Johnson American Bulldogs. However on occasion we do produce fantastic standard- and hybrid-type American Bulldogs. We breed for functional and balanced temperament allowing for the American Bulldog to be a family member and a companion while having the drive and intelligence to perform desired functions. At Grand Future, we typically produce large American Bulldogs. Males range in lbs and females range in lbs. We have always bred to a significantly stricter breed standard than the current American Bulldog breed standards under U. Dogs with the following characteristics are not shown at conformation shows nor bred in our kennel: 1. Full black mask — this genetic trait is usually a result of another breed having been infused into the gene pool. Usually a dog with a kinked tail itself is not at risk of health complications as a result of the kinked tail. Teeth — dogs missing more than 3 teeth. Dogs lacking full pigmentation are more susceptible to various health problems. Lack of pigment is also responsible for deafness in dogs. We have never produced a deaf dog. Interested in a puppy? We have many repeat buyers — over 30 families have purchased 2,3,4, and even 5 dogs. Our dogs generally love children and have balanced temperament. Having produced over dogs in 7 generations, we have history and data that allows us to make some conclusions that we believe are significant. The very common problem of hip dysplasia that afflicts this breed is nearly non-existent in our kennel. Our dogs tend to have normal locomotion — good movement due to anatomically sound physical structure. Our dogs have never torn ligaments such as the Canine Cruciate Ligament CCL , which leads us to conclude that such problems are likely hereditary in nature. Our dogs have never prematurely died from heart problems, which leads us to conclude that such problems are likely hereditary in nature. Our dogs have never been diagnosed with tracheal hypoplasia — a hereditary genetic defect common in bulldog breeds that leads to potential deadly obstruction of the airway. Our dogs tend to live long. Our foundation dog lived to the age of 15 years and 10 months old. Our dogs have never been afflicted with cancer at a young age. The earliest instance of cancer has been encountered at 8 years of age by one dog. The remainder of cases have been documented at over 10 years of age. The biggest tragedy for an owner is in having to care for a sick dog as a result of poor breeding, and be absolutely helpless as that dog passes in their arms. Exorbitant medical bills end up being paid to prolong the time together even by just a little with the beloved family member. As with any animal breeding program, our kennel is not immune from problems. This drives us to continually improve. We maintain contact and help our owners in any way we can; even at 4AM or during a vacation since we have owners all over the world in various timezones. Our breeding expertise enables us to deliver healthy, beautiful, strong, and intelligent American Bulldog puppies. We provide a contractual health guarantee against the following genetic health problems — hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, Canine Cruciate Ligament CCL ruptures, cataracts, entropion, ectropion, heart, kidneys, thyroid, ichthyosis, cryptorchidism, epilepsy, and any neurological disorders including NCL. Our conversation with a prospective owner always involves questions to understand the kind of dog the person would like — the more details the better. If so inclined, the prospective owner can request guidance in picking the puppy based on personality and activity level, temperament, phenotype, and more. We evaluate our puppies at 6 weeks of age on a variety of parameters. We provide lifetime unlimited advice and guidance by phone to owners concerning all subjects relating to dog ownership. You can be sure you will have the information you need to succeed even if this is going to be your first American Bulldog puppy. Because we stand by the quality of our work, we want our owners to participate in our breeding program and we are happy to provide the necessary guidance. Our dogs are also ideal candidates for service animal work. Training a service dog requires a significant investment of time and money, making the genetic health and temperament of the dog even more critical. A service dog needs to be healthy, hassle-free, intelligent and receptive to training, have stable temperament to handle any type of environment, and of course lead a long life disease-free. All of these selective requirements for service dog candidates make Grand Future American Bulldogs an ideal fit. Join us in our mission of producing the best American Bulldogs possible! Professional worry-free shipping worldwide Of course our preference is for you to come visit our home, get acquainted with us, and pick up your new American Bulldog puppy in person. However, we understand that it is not feasible for everyone. Even if you do not live anywhere near Nevada, do not be concerned — we are highly experienced at shipping our American Bulldog puppies worldwide, as even just the list of our Grand Champions and Champions spanning 9 nations attests. We can prepare all necessary export documentation. Search this website.
Dedicated to a Healthy Legacy. Boxer Puppies and Young Boxers pictured. Subscribe to get news on litters! We own a farm on 29 acres in Morriston, Florida, near Ocala. We moved to Florida in .Throughout my life I've had boxers. Had other breeds but always came back to the Boxer for their unmistakable loyalty and dedication. My Boxers are champions and their heritage is champions or have been in the show ring. Made in America. All of our puppies are proudly made in America. All the food and everything we use to raise up our puppies is made in America. All products in our kennels are made in America. God bless our troops. Proud to be American citizens. Jesus is Lord! He is featured on our MALE page. To have our boxers be everything they are meant to be we knew we must start with a good foundation. We believe we have achieved this with our boxers. We have spent time and research on choosing all our boxers. Boxers are born to show off and they do plenty of that. AKC Boxer Breeder. Florida, the sunshine state, the perfect place to own a AKC Boxer puppy. Looking forward to working with you. Enjoy the journey! Files coming soon. A new look for: americanboxerpuppies. We have been a K9 breeder for over 20 years and have been breeding boxers for over 12 years. Our boxers are raised in a social, healthy and loving environment. Through my life I've had boxers. Had other breeds but always came back to the boxer. For their unmistakable loyalty and dedication. My boxers are champions and their heritage is champions or have been in the show ring. God bless our troop! Listons Boxers. AKC Boxer breeder. Florida, the sunshine state, the perfect place to own a AKC boxer puppy. Our web site americanboxerpuppies. They have areas to exercise and play. We have top of the line breeding. Our boxers are related to one of the top boxers in the US. From our home to yours we strive to have you bring home a healthy and well balanced puppy. A Furever Friend Boxers are fun loving, playful and ready for a venture. They love to snuggle and great with children. Email Address. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Click here to add your own text and edit me. Welcome to the Sergeant's Boxers website! Thank you for stopping by! We are Cassie and Luke! First off, Boxers are the absolute best family members imaginable. Luke and I gained our first boxer family member in .From the very beginning, we were hooked! We then gained our newest addition, Diva and boy does her name fit her well! We were overjoyed with our family fur-members and wanted to provide joy to other families. That is when we decided we wanted to breed Boxers and bring love and happiness to other families, just as our Boxers brought love and happiness into ours. Our family continued to grow, as did our happiness and joy! We now have 8 boxers and one spayed boxer mix. All are our fur-kids come first and foremost! Diva and Sergeant had their first litter in .Since then, we have learned so much about the breed and about producing healthy puppies. A lot of thought and research goes into each and every breeding. In the early part of , we started showing. This was such a new experience for us, but we enjoyed it so very much! Bailey was our first girl to show and she had a blast! Her face would light up when trotting around the ring. She obtained her International and National Champion Title that weekend and we were so very proud of her! Remington and Diva were a little hesitant at first, but ended up doing very well by the end of the weekend. By the 4th run, they were so excited to get out there and perform! They ran their hearts out and smiled while doing so. It also helped that daddy was there the second day and waiting at the finish line for them : Captain and Benelli went to their first show in June of .Benelli was just 3 months old and competed in the baby class. She did so very well! She gained great ratings that first day and caught the eyes of everyone there! Captain also did very well! He strutted around the ring and smiled the entire time! It was not hard to see that this was something he enjoyed so very much! We couldn't wait to get them back out there for the next show! In September of , we went to 2 shows! The first show was a UKC show. Captain and Bailey competed and had a blast. Captain obtained his UKC Champion. Bailey obtained all of the points needed and is now only waiting for her competition wins. We cant wait to call her a UKC Champion too! Captain gained his National, International and Honors Ch. At only 3 months old, Dawn made it to Best of Show during this show! It is the best feeling in the world to see the smiles on their faces and their eyes lighting up! They all had a blast! Captain obtained his Honors Bronze Champion Title. Both girls did well. They both won first in each of their classes and Dawn won Reserve Best of Breed in all four shows. We were unable to attend due to puppies being at home, but didnt want the girls to miss out on a great weekend of showing! Dawn got first in class for all three shows. Benelli got first in class all three shows. Benelli also got Reserve Best Female in two show and Best female in one show. For being at a show without mama and dad, the girls did so good! Im so proud of them and a special thanks to Angie for talking the girls! We look forward to the upcoming shows and we are so very excited!! Benelli gained another competition win and many points to add towards obtaining her UKC Champion Title! I have no doubt she will obtain the rest of the needed points and competition win needed to obtain her title soon! The girls did great, even with the judges all wearing masks! We can not wait until the next show!! This was Sergeant's first show and he surprised us all!! We had a blast! Results will be posted in each of their files. Sergeant, Harley, Captain and Dawn participated and did very well! Captain even made it to the Best of Show on Sunday! Dawn and Remi did absolutely wonderful! Harley struggled a bit. She wanted to catch the line instead of the lure! Anyways, they all had a great time and we will certainly be back for more! Harley and Captain got to attend the Norman show! Harley won Reserve Ch x3 shows. Captain and our friend Junior handler Alicia Hood won x1 best Junior class! They both did great! Can't wait until the next show! Remi also came out to the show for her very first time! Dawn and Harley also attended and both did well. Captain, of course, tagged along too! Results will be posted once they are posted on UKC site, as I completely forgot to write down results while at the show! Such an exciting sport. Watching them be so excited to chase the lure is absolutely fun times!! We traveled all of the way there to be a part of this amazing show! We earned a total of 9 titles in both Dock Jumping and Precision Coursing! Harley showed in a couple of shows there, but did not place she was too busy worrying about diving and Captain got to strut around in the TOP 10 Boxer ring! Huge Congratulations to these girls!! Information to come! This means that for every litter, Sergeants Boxers will go down the list and offer puppies to the families in order of deposits received. The family may choose a puppy from the current litter or may pass to wait for a later litter. Even if the family initially expressed the desire for a puppy from a future litter early in the conversation, they will still be asked if they would like to select a puppy when the current litter selections start. Selections start at each litter's 6 weeks of age mark. This allows the families to not only pick from color, but also from personality. Please know that these can change at any time and are only listed for reference. This is non-negotiable. Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article.
For the complete list please Click Here. This number can vary depending on the breeder and where you purchase your new puppy from. This will guarantee that the puppy is purebred, healthy, and up-to-date on its vaccinations. The health of any breed is largely dependent upon its breeding practices, so this becomes even more important with purebred dogs such as boxers who are prone to hereditary diseases. Be aware that the vast majority of the pet stores have their puppies supplied by unscrupulous breeders. The best place to find reputable boxer breeders will be through the local boxer breed clubs, they will be able to put you in touch with responsible breeders who are aware of the health issues specific to this breed. Above all, take your time. Do not ever, rush into any decision when purchasing a new family member. If you do so, then chances are that it may turn out to be one of the biggest mistakes of your life. Visit Your Arizona Boxer Breeder in Person Every responsible breeder will insist on you visiting them in person before buying a puppy. The breeder should be happy to offer you references from previous purchasers, as well as conducting an interview with yourself the potential new owner. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your Boxer Breeder in Arizona Most responsible breeders will have no problem in offering you references from people that they have sold puppies to previously, even better if they can provide more than just one. Other than asking for references from previous buyers, always ask the breeder what type of after-care is provided. Reputable breeders will also offer at least a 6-month health guarantee with their puppies; this means that they will either fix or replace your boxer puppy at no cost to yourself if it falls ill within this time frame. This way you can be assured that you are purchasing a healthy boxer pup, free of known genetic issues. The most reputable boxer breeders will have no issues in allowing their clients to meet one another. Find out whether the breeder uses a good vet. If they do, then they will be more than willing to give you contact information for their veterinarian, as well as provide you with a recommendation. It is unfortunate but true that puppy mills do exist and finding one can be extremely difficult as most will go out of their way to make it appear as if they are running a legitimate business. Healthy boxer pups grow into healthy boxers, so quality over quantity should always be the goal. This is not a sign of distrust but rather one of concern for both you and your new boxer pup. A good breeder will ask you what type of contract you would like before selling a puppy to you. By asking this question you can ensure that your boxer pup has never had ANY health problems such as Parvo or other issues that may become apparent in later life such as heart disease. How to Prepare Your Home for Your Boxer Puppy The age at which your new boxer pup is received will often determine how much preparation you need to do. While it may seem like a daunting task, if done properly it can be achieved within just a week or two of arriving home — providing that everyone in the household understands what is expected and are prepared for this new addition. Boxers are very intelligent dogs which means that, with patience on your part, they will soon learn exactly where they are supposed to go. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Boxer Description The Boxer has a compact and powerful body. Their head is proportionate with the body and has a short muzzle with an underbite. The tail is set high and typically docked. Their coat is short, smooth, and comes in multiple colors including fawn, tan, brindle, mahogany, and black and often with white markings. Boxers also come in a white coat, but some clubs will not register them. Discover more about our Boxer puppies for sale below and see why they are one of the most popular breeds in the U. Disposition and Temperament Boxers are happy, playful, curious, and energetic. So much so that many remain extremely fit and athletic into their old age. They are very intelligent, eager, quick to learn and known to be a good breed for competitive obedience. Boxers bond closely with their family and are loyal and affectionate. In fact, they are known to get along well with children. A properly socialized Boxer will get along with dogs and other household pets, such as cats, but small animals such as rodents or birds may be too tempting. Being energetic and playful, the Boxer can become boisterous and jump on people without proper training and leadership. Boxers need to go on a daily walk and get daily mental and physical exercise. Without it, they can become stressed out. You should start training your Boxer while it is a puppy: Boxers do best with dominant owners who can be firm, consistent and committed. You need to establish yourself as the leader of the pack with this dog breed. Owners who do not establish dominance often find their dogs to be stubborn or demanding which can hamper the owner-pet relationship. Living Conditions As for living arrangements, they can be fine in an apartment if sufficiently exercised even though they are active indoors, but Boxers really do best with an average-sized yard. They are also temperature sensitive, overheating easily and chilling quickly. Boxers have a natural tendency to protect their owners and home, and although visitors who the dog recognizes are not seen as a threat, will protect their owners if they sense danger. Boxers are courageous which makes them great watchdogs and will even restrain intruders. It is important to know Boxer puppies require human leadership and need to be taught not to be boisterous or jump up on people. It requires very little grooming. Brush it with a rubber curry brush once or twice a week to keep it looking good. The Boxer tends to be a clean breed only occasionally needing a bath. Origin The name Boxer is thought to come from the way they use their front paws for just about everything; pawing at its food bowls, toys, and even its owner in a playful way. The Boxer was developed in Germany in the 19th century and its ancestors were two German mastiff-type breeds. They were later bred with the ancestors of the Mastiff and Bulldog. Boxers were first used for dog-fighting, bull-baiting, cart pulling, cattle dogs, rounding up livestock, and to catch and pin wild boar and bison until hunters could arrive. Later they became popular theater and circus dogs. There are two types of Boxers: the German and the American Boxer. German Boxers have bigger heads and are generally more muscular than American Boxers. See store for details on a puppy. The American Canine Association, Inc. The American Canine Registry. Questions about Boxer puppies for sale in Phoenix AZ? We have answers. How much are Boxer puppies for sale in Phoenix AZ? These inputs can include things like where the breeder is located, the sex and color of the puppy, and even how much experience the breeder or business has. Will my puppy be from Phoenix Boxer breeders? How are Boxer breeders Phoenix screened? We take screening for breeders and businesses who want to be part of our network very seriously and hold them to the high standards that are outlined within our Breeder Pledge. We only want to work with the upper echelon when it comes to standards of animal welfare and ethical practices for Boxer puppies for sale Phoenix. How is Uptown Puppies different? We help you focus on the fun part of choosing your new Phoenix Boxer puppy for sale from a wide selection, all while taking care of all of the screening and vetting process beforehand. Puppy mills are unfortunate organizations whose mission is to pump out as many puppies as possible to make as much money as possible, all while mistreating the vulnerable animals in their care. Puppies from these places can often have expensive vet bills down the road due to neglect and poor breeding practices. Are there Boxers for sale Phoenix I can get right away? You can start searching our online network of breeders and businesses for Boxer for sale Phoenix immediately! Go ahead and start scrolling through those cute faces today! Boxers are a well established breed and have ancestors that can be traced all the way back to ancient civilizations in B. In their modern form, they were bred in Germany as guard dogs and hunting dogs. They were eventually brought over to the U. What should I expect after I get a Boxer? You can expect lots of adventures and laughs when you choose to get a Boxer puppy. They are one of the silliest and most playful breeds around and have an endless supply of antics to keep you entertained. They are also well rounded and have the intelligence and affection to go with their playful personalities. Are Boxers good family dogs? Boxers for sale in Phoenix make great family dogs because they always have the energy to keep up with an active family and love to play. They get along with adults and children alike and have a protective nature and desire to keep the whole family safe. How big do Boxers get? Boxers are a medium to large sized dog breed and once those cute little Boxer puppies in Phoenix grow into adulthood you can expect them to be anywhere from inches tall on average and weigh anywhere from pounds. Usually males are slightly taller and weigh on the higher side than females.
They are outgoing, active and affectionate companions who have a lot of energy and love making their owner happy. They have strong retrieving instincts as they were bred to be gun dogs, so they love both soft toys and diving into bodies of water. It is highly unusual for the puppy's owner to care for them during this time and is best left to a responsible, reputable breeder. Your puppy's body will double in weight as their muscles, organs and bones develop. Nutrition During the neonatal stage, your Labrador puppy will get most of their nutrition from their mother's milk. At around 4 weeks you may wish to introduce a mush of minced protein such as beef, but always consult your vet first before changing your puppy's diet at this stage. Health During this time it is important to monitor your Lab for any infections, diseases or birth defects. Puppies are unable to urinate or defecate by themselves initially, so their mother helps them but may additionally require your assistance. Keep your vet's contact details close by and educate yourself thoroughly on this stage of puppy development. By the end of this period, your puppy will be mobile and will explore the world mouth first — be sure to keep choking hazards and toxic foods out of their reach. Behaviour During most of this time your Labrador puppy will be asleep or inactive, but they will soon be playing with their brothers and sisters. After weeks they will go through as much sensory development as a human baby does in a few months. It is important to avoid disturbing the puppies' mother as she will be likely be protective, but some interaction with the young pups is normal so they become used to human touch. This is a formative time for your puppy and will be when they learn to walk, play, bite, hold their bladder, and interact with others. You will soon notice their attentiveness to you and their intense love of play — many Labs keep this caring and fun attitude for their whole lives if you foster it. Nutrition During the weaning stage, you should slowly introduce into their diet a nutritionally complete dog food which is appropriate to your Labrador's large size and young age. Labs are notoriously greedy and will quickly gobble down food and snatch treats from hands. You should familiarise yourself with lists of toxic foods and plants to avoid and hide as your puppy will soon find ways to get into forbidden snacks found only in bins. Labradors puppies instinctively like to 'dig' inside their water bowls so much of their water will end up on the ground. Make sure to get your puppy used to touching inside their small ears as they are prone to ear infections and will need regular checkups. Behaviour Due to the changes in their environment, your Labrador puppy will likely be under a significant amount of stress. It's important that you provide lots of attention and positive reinforcement for good behaviour at this time to establish boundaries early. Labradors are eager to love anyone but can be overbearing, so you should introduce them to a number of different people and environments so that they are not overwhelmed with excitement later in life. PUPPY By the time your Labrador Retriever reaches puppyhood their personality will be well developed and you will have established a loving, social friend who wants to maximise time with you and others. Your Labrador puppy will do well socially and behaviourally from puppy training classes as long as treats are involved. Nutrition Your Labrador puppy's diet should be based around a high quality, nutritionally complete puppy food. You may also wish to introduce them to fresh, lean raw meat — however, don't feed your puppy any meat you would not feed to a fellow human being. Bloat is potentially fatal but can be combatted by feeding your dog two smaller meals per day, a habit you should start while they are a puppy. A rough guide is that they should exercise for minutes per day and less after 5 years when many lose their appetite for long marathons of activity. Your pup will need brushing every few days, with more frequent grooming during seasonal changes to combat shedding. Bathing should be infrequent as this can damage the waterproofing of their coats, however, you should wash them after swimming or rolling in muck. After around 8 weeks your puppy will be due for some vaccinations, so they will need a checkup at the vet and to arrange for boosters after that. Studies showed that dogs supplemented with a diet of bovine colostrum had a quicker and stronger immune system response to CDV vaccine as compared to dogs fed a control diet. Colostrum supplemented dogs maintained a higher antibody level even after 40 weeks A diet supplemented with Colostrum helps bridge the immunity gap in puppies that occurs between 3 weeks and 5 months of age. Behaviour Do not be complacent with training your Labrador puppy — almost all are very gentle and well behaved, but this does not mean that training is unnecessary. Labs are very loving and patient with all that they meet, but they often do not know their own size. To combat this, they should be trained in how to act around small dogs and children to avoid intimidation or accidental injury. They will also benefit from obedience training to drop things from their mouths, avoid rushing across busy streets and make sure they come when called. Recommended Articles. Following the Labrador feeding chart by age will give you a rough idea of how much to feed your puppy. Labradors are known for their playfulness, and sweet disposition, and are good at fetch which is why you should provide them with the best nutrition to support their growth. Ensure that the food contains the right amounts of protein, carbs, fat, and vitamins. You should avoid feeding your Labrador puppy too much food as they are prone to joint issues, but also avoid feeding them less food as they will be malnourished and not reach their growth milestones. Continue reading to understand how much to feed a Labrador puppy. The amount of food that your Labrador puppy should eat depends on a combination of certain factors such as activity level, weight, type, and brand of food. Heavier and bigger puppies need to eat more food than smaller puppies, and dogs that have active lives will need more calories than those living sedentary life. Fortunately, all dog food contains a feeding guideline on the packaging to get you started. It is important that you create and maintain a feeding schedule for your puppy so that they can maintain a healthy weight and develop good habits. Consult your pet nutritionist or vet, to learn more about how much food you should give your specific Labrador. Labrador Feeding Chart By Age A Labrador can be fed between one and six cups of food depending on their level of activity, age, and type of food. The amount will differ from one puppy to the other as every puppy has there own requirements. Therefore, you should follow a feeding guideline that is indicated in the dog food brands or the one designed by your vet. As a Labrador owner, it is important to understand that the nutritional requirements of your puppy are different at each stage as they grow. Therefore, adult and puppy dogs should be trained to eat the correct amount at the right schedule. Ensure that you keep a Labrador puppy feeding chart with you. Calculating the Resting Energy Requirement RER of your puppy and doubling it can help you get the right number of calories to feed them. Feed your puppy a little amount, in the beginning, to ensure that they are ready to eat. If they are not ready, do not force the food on them. Be patient with your puppy and they will be on puppy food soon. The puppy will be relying less on the milk. When your puppy starts eating all the food you offer them, you can reduce the amount of water and increase the food amount. The puppy will start becoming active and start exploring away from the mother as they no longer rely on the mother. By the end of the week into week seven, the puppy will be able to eat just puppy food. Ensure that you feed them dry food that is full of healthy protein. They should be eating three to four times per day and need about 2 cups of food. Avoid free feeding the puppy as it may be hard to know exactly how much they are eating. Create a feeding schedule as early as possible and this will help them develop good habits in the future. Put the food out for only 10 to 15 minutes and take the bowl away if they do not finish. This can be tricky if you are working but it is important that you maintain their feeding schedule as this is a developmental stage. Three meals per day will help your growing puppy develop their digestive system and ensure that they are getting their nutrition. This is also the beginning of the teething stage and they will be biting a lot of things including hard dog food and chew toys. They should eat about two cups of food distributed over three meals. But you should still maintain feeding them two cups of food but can reduce the mealtimes to twice per day. Watch out for the amount of food your puppy eats to avoid them gaining weight. Also, ensure that they are getting enough exercise to burn off the food. So, you should transition them to adult food. Ensure that the switching process is done slowly to avoid causing vomiting and diarrhea to your puppy. Your Labrador can be fed once per day now and the amount reduced to about two cups of food. Understanding Labrador Puppy Nutritional Needs If you stick to feeding your Labrador high-quality food, be assured that they are getting all the necessary nutrients. However, it is useful to know the types of nutrients that they need and the ingredients to watch out for. Carbohydrates — healthy carbs are necessary for providing energy for your puppy. Sources like barley, rice, and oatmeal are great. Healthy carbs can also be found in veggies such as sweet potatoes, peas, and lentils. Fiber — it helps regulate the digestive system of your puppy and helps the stool become healthier and firm. Sources include spinach, chicory root, and beet pulp. Sources include fish oils, fish, canola oils, and fish. Vitamins and Minerals — are needed for improving the immune system which helps in protecting your puppy from diseases. Veggies and real fruits like cranberries and blueberries are great sources. The frequency of feeding your Labrador depends mostly on their age. Puppies need to eat three to four times per day while senior and adult Labradors can eat one to two times per day. Labrador is a breed that is motivated by food, meaning that the chance of them turning down food is low. Given their nature, it can be difficult to figure out whether they are really hungry or just food obsessed. Since they cannot regulate their eating habits, it is important that you develop a feeding schedule to prevent them from gaining weight. Both types of food provide your dog with the best nutrition they need to grow and develop. Also, check the label on the packaging and make sure that it contains the perfect balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Kibble is cheaper than wet foods and stores easily as it does not require refrigeration. It also helps clean the teeth by removing tartar and buildup when your puppy chews it. Wet food also provides balanced and complete nutrition for your Labrador. It provides more hydration to your puppy as it contains high moisture content. However, wet food needs to be put in the fridge once opened otherwise it will go bad. Some dog owners mix wet food and kibble to give their dogs the best of both worlds. Therefore, most premium dog food brands have different specially formulated puppy food. Puppies can be fed with puppy food until they are about 12 to 15 months old then transition to adult dog food. When transitioning your dog from puppy food to adult dog food remember to introduce the feed gradually for about seven to ten days by mixing small amounts of the adult dog food with the puppy food. Decrease the puppy food gradually every day with a simultaneous increase in adult dog food. This will helps the pup o adjust to the new meal easily. Experienced Labrador Retriever owners will tell you that not all puppies eat a lot. Studies also have indicated that puppies eat more when fed with other puppies or in a group. When the puppy gets to a new home, they might go off the food for the first few days. They might eat a few kibbles and then leave it. Your puppy may also prefer to eat from your hand and not the bowl. However, call your vet if your puppy refuses to eat for more than four hours. Call immediately if your puppy looks unwell. There are a few reasons you need to keep an eye on because they indicate serious problems: Your pup neither drink nor eat Diarrhea. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. As we all know too well, what we put in our belly has a huge impact on our health, vitality, length and quality of life. They have to strike a fine balance between getting enough nutrients to grow and avoiding an over-abundance that can lead to abnormal growth and disabling conditions. In this article you will learn precisely how to feed your puppy. What they can eat, what they should not, how many times you should feed them each day, basic information on home-made diets and the pros and cons of various commercial dog foods. The majority of Labrador owners feed their puppy kibble. Kibble is ground meal, shaped into dried biscuit-like pellets that are extremely convenient to buy, store and feed, providing everything a puppy needs in one easy to handle product. All the major brands carry a range of kibble and many are specifically formulated to suit the precise needs of puppies. For our recommendations of the best puppy food for labs, please read our article on: The Best Food for Labrador Puppies. Good breeders will supply you with all the information you need to feed your new puppy and you should follow this advice. Puppies almost always get upset tummies during a change of diet. The stress of moving to a new home is enough to deal with without them potentially having tummy upset on top. So try to avoid this. But expect your puppy to get diarrhea after such a sudden change. What Can Puppies Eat? With a bewildering choice of different puppy foods available, what to feed your puppy may not be the easiest decision to make. You Can Feed Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is ground up food, formed into pellets and dried for easy storage and convenience. It is a specially formulated, complete and balanced diet, containing everything a puppy needs to grow and be healthy. Many people believe kibble is the best way to feed a puppy, with it being so easy to buy, store and feed while containing every nutrient a puppy needs in the right proportions. Wet, Complete Puppy Foods Are An Option As the name suggests, complete wet dog food is complete and balanced, meaning nothing should be fed in combination. Everything needed is included in this one food. Complete wet foods come in individual pouches or tins with one pouch or tin containing one single serving. In the main these foods are low in nutrition, contain a high amount of cheap fillers, by-products and water and need mixing with a biscuit to give them some substance and to make them more complete. Because the food is such low quality, you have to feed a lot of it. And what goes in, must come out. This type of feeding was popular decades ago and I do remember my parents feeding our first dogs this way, but most people have moved on from this and are feeding their dogs in better ways now. Raw Food, BARF And Home-Made Diets Raw feeding is a diet that consists of mostly raw meat, edible bones and animal organs, though most practitioners also mix in small portions of fruit, veg and selected other foodstuffs. There are many people feel strongly that this is the best possible way to feed a dog. But I would caution most people that to feed this diet successfully, you need to do A LOT of research, gain a lot of knowledge and truly understand a dogs nutritional needs to make sure they get exactly what they need in the right amounts. Many people wonder if they can feed their puppy human foods, anything found in the fridge or larder. Furthermore, there are many human foods that are toxic to dogs that you should avoid at all costs. Too much of some nutrients can be bad in itself, but also prevent the absorption and use of other nutrients too. So supplementing a balanced diet is a bad thing to do. Can You Give Puppies Milk? Assuming you get your puppy at the recommended 8 weeks, they will have been fully weaned before you bring them home. Many puppies are intolerant of cows milk and drinking it leads to an upset tummy and diarrhea so you would do best to avoid giving your puppy any milk at all. One exception is for very young puppies under 6 weeks of age. When we have newborn puppies at our house we sometimes need to supplement and use Esbilac Milk Supplemen t. However, if you have a very young puppy that you think may need supplementing please first consult with your veterinarian. Are They Necessary? You will likely be feeding your puppy a commercially available complete and balanced dog food, in which case you certainly should not supplement their food. Supplementing this will mean too much of one or more things, making it unbalanced which can actually lead to harm. But an excess amount of calcium in the diet of a Lab puppy can lead to skeletal development problems. So adding a calcium supplement to an already complete diet can actually do more harm than good. There may also be times your vet advises you to do so. But if feeding raw, you should know more about nutrition than I do. This is a hard question to answer and sadly I cannot give you a definite quantity or weight to feed them each day. Puppies grow at different rates, some are more active than others and there can be large differences between metabolisms too. However… The biggest determining factor is how concentrated the nutrients and calories are in the brand of food you feed them. High quality foods are nutrient rich and give a puppy all they need from quite small amounts of food. But cheaper brands are full of low quality and nutritionally empty fillers that mean a puppy needs considerably more to get what they need. Start by feeding your puppy according to the guidelines on the label of the puppy food you buy for them. Then see how their body develops. Puppies should not be fat! But at the other end of the scale if they start to look and feel a little slim, up their portion sizes a little. The guidelines on the food you buy are just that…guidelines. You might also be interested in:. Made with real meat and no artificial colors or flavors how much should a lab eat? Allergies Labs can also have allergies. Some dogs may be allergic to wheat, macadamia nuts, etc. It can manifest as a runny nose, high volumes of shedding, rashes on the skin, and so on. Different dietary needs are crucial, especially if they display allergy symptoms. Avoid all types of human foods. You can give your lab puppy supplements You can get great quality adult dog food and puppy kibble from companies like Royal Canin Labrador Retriever, Blue Buffalo, Canidae Grain-Free, etc. Only adult food must be given to labrador retrievers who have crossed 1. Your puppy needs 4 small meals consisting of half a cup of food per meal till he is 2 months old. From 2 to 6 months, he needs 3 meals daily consisting of 1 cup of food per meal. From 6 months onwards , you can give your puppy 2 meals daily of 2 cups of dog food per meal. Is This A Problem? Yes, this is a major problem! Fat dogs are adorable but also extremely unhealthy. An adult labrador retriever should weigh at most pounds. Labs that are fatter than this stand at the risk of obesity, arthritis , and other lifelong diseases. Refrain from feeding your labrador too many dog treats. Onions and garlic: surprisingly, anything in the onion and garlic family is incredibly toxic to dogs. Meat with bones: if not chewed properly, sharp edges can rupture the throat, stomach lining, intestines, and other parts of the digestive tract. Other human foods and beverages to avoid giving your dog are alcohol, sugar, citric fruits, and anything with caffeine. Your labrador retriever should weigh between 55 to 70 pounds at full adulthood. Male labs are heavier than female labs, so they can fall on either side of the optimal weight spectrum. Some healthy treats for your labrador retriever are cut fruits and vegetables. Carrots, celery, cucumber, beetroot, apples, bananas, and berries strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, etc. Dogs also love peanut butter! Veggies dipped in peanut butter also make a great snack for your dog. This is entirely up to you as dog owners. If you have the time and patience to cook meals for your dog, go for it. Store-bought food is easier and is filled with the right nutritional requirements for your lab puppy. On the other hand, with the right recipe, home-cooked food works, too. What Should I Do? A dog growling at you when you go near his food bowl is most commonly a trauma response or a way to protect his food. We often see this with rescues. House training your lab puppy is equally important to avoid food aggression. Labrador Retrievers get piddly after their meals. Dog owners must take out their lab puppy as frequently as they eat sometimes even more often to let their energy out and adult labradors less frequently. A lab puppy needs a ton of exercise. The amount of kibble you should feed your Labrador puppy will vary depending on their age, weight, and activity level. A good rule of thumb is to start with cups of kibble daily and adjust as needed. Best Dog Food For Lab Puppies: The best dog foods for lab puppies include those that are high in protein and low in fillers. The food you should feed a black lab puppy is the same as for any other Labrador puppy. A chocolate lab puppy should be fed the same food as for any other Labrador puppy. A 2-year-old chocolate lab should eat about cups of kibble daily. You should stop feeding puppy food to your Labrador at around months of age. At this point, their growth plates will have closed, and they will no longer need the extra nutrients found in puppy food. Labradors live for years. They start to slow down around 7 and may develop some health problems in their senior years. You should also increase their exercise level. Lab breeders feed their dogs high-quality dog food specifically formulated for large-breed puppies. A lab puppy should drink about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. This amount may increase as they get older and more active. A labrador needs at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. This can be a combination of walking, running, and playing. Golden labs live for years. Chocolate labs live for years same like labs of any color. Labradors lose their baby teeth between 3 and 6 months of age. You can start to transition your puppy to eating twice a day at around 6 months of age. By the time they are 1 year old, they should eat only once daily. You should stop feeding your large breed puppy food at around 18 months of age. Why Are Labs So Hungry? Labradors are a very active breed of dog, and they need a lot of calories to fuel their energy levels. They are also prone to gaining weight, so keep a close eye on their food intake About The Author Shradha Kabra Shradha is a seasoned writer at Labradorandyou. Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness. Remember, Labs do not have a natural food intake regulator so you will need to monitor them with portion control. Using a cheaper brand is a poor option at half the price. You will use twice as much and you will have to clean up larger amounts of waste in your yard. To allow for an accurate control of body weight and growth rate, this amount of food can be dispensed over 3 meals per day. After 5 months of age, the feeding regularity can be reduced to two meals per day with the commensurate increase in food quantity. The amount of food a Labrador puppy requires will increase then level out during first 14 months of their life. At months, their bone density is increasing and their growth plates are set. We do not recommend desexing you pup until at least 3 years of age. This allows for an appropriate development and supply of hormone which in turn produces proper bone, muscle and vital organ development. Table foods dispensed randomly to dogs are not nutritionally balanced. We do not offer our dogs table food at all. There will be no problems if you are feeding a puppy with a homemade diet but it should be prepared from prescribed recipes that are nutritionally complete and balanced. Diets consisting of an unplanned and indiscriminate mixture of human foods particularly including carbohydrates will likely result in obesity and even dietary-induced disease. When you Lab reaches 14months of age, it should be given an adult food that contains less energy and calcium. This will decrease the risk of obesity and orthopaedic conditions. And do not feed them coffee or tea as they can contain caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. These toxic substances can dangerously affect the heart and nervous system. Onions, garlic, raisins and grapes can be severely toxic in labradors. Raw meat is potential source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria for your puppy. Eggs yokes are an excellent source of protein. Raw eggs contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin a B vitamin. This can, in extreme cease, lead to skin and coat problems. Liver contains higher levels of protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins. Raw liver can be a source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria. Excessive amounts of liver can cause Vitamin A toxicity. Raw bone chewing will control tartar buildup on a pups teeth. However, bone chewing can cause intestinal blockages and perforations. Never use cooked bones. Commercial Puppy Foods Most commercial puppy foods are designated for small, medium, large and giant breeds. This designation can be found on the label. Puppies of medium sized breeds are less than '25 kg fully grown adult body weight'. A full grown and lean Labrador will usually weigh between 25kg and 45kg. We feed our dogs at the 'lower' level of the recommended range. The 'Hills Body Fat Index' is a very helpful body shape indicator. The same food as the bitch You should feed your new puppy with the same brand of food as the bitch received during lactation. From 2 weeks into pregnancy, our expectant mothers are fed 'Royal Canin Labrador Puppy' food. Introducing a new brand of food If you are wanting to introduce a new brand of food to your puppy, then blend it gradually with the existing brand in increasing amounts over 3 days. This should prevent food rejection and any kind of gastric upset. It is best to choose a diet designed for large breed puppies. Selected commercial feeds should contain a limited percentage of filler compounds. Pawlinglabs uses Royal Canin Labrador as our preferred option. Growing labradors Labrador pups have a very steep growth curve, and their total daily energy needs do increase as they grow. Calculate the amount of puppy food that will satisfy that need. The feeding guidelines on the commercial pet food label provides an estimated quantity of feed for several different ranges in body size. These instructions will give you an estimated starting point for the particular brand. Medium or large? Medium breeds should be transitioned to an adult diet by 12 months of age, while large breeds between 14 — 18 months of age. Mature female labradors are medium and weight approx kg. Mature males are large and weight approx kg. Their calcium and energy content should not exceed that level recommended by a registered nutritionalist. Sound skeletal development Sound skeletal development in labradors is produced by the interaction of genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. The phase prior to weaning and the growth phase, up to 14 months are integral to sound skeletal structure. Don't take your young pup on extended distance walks and certainly not 'running' until at least 18mths of age. You must avoid stairs and slippery floors for the same reasons. Their growth plates are set at about mths of age. Feeding and Overfeeding Large breeds like Labradors are the most susceptible to skeletal disease. Feed consumption, nutrients balance and feeding methods influence our ability to produce sound skeletal development and eliminate skeletal disease. Appropriate food consumption and nutrition plays a critical role in bone development. Overfeeding will not increase or benefit the growth rate of young and growing labrador puppies. And it does not correlate with optimal adult size. However, it does increase the risk of skeletal abnormalities. The vast majority of skeletal disorders occur in large breeds including labradors and they are associated with consumption of table food and an excessive intake of a commercial food and supplementation. The large breeds like labradors are limited in their ability to cope with an excess of minerals such as calcium. The result of this over consumption is abnormal bone development and skeletal disorders. Nutritional management will be critical in the to prevention of bone and joint diseases. In most cases, skeletal disease can prevented by appropriate quantities of feed in a regulated diet with optimal nutrient levels. A complete and balanced commercial diet is essential. Dietary deficiencies will be of little concern if your labrador pup is fed with a complete and balanced commercial diet. Brands like Eukanuba and Royal Canin are specifically formulated for young, growing labradors. There is real potential for harm by over feeding and giving additional supplementation. Housing safety and activity levels Housing safety and activity levels are under the your influence. Nutrition is also under your control and it is the single most important factor affecting the development of the musculoskeletal system. Energy, protein, and calcium are the critical nutritional components affecting skeletal development. However, if they are given in excess, they will be detrimental to normal bone and joint growth. Most pet owners feed commercial dog food. These prepared diets are balanced and complete. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. The source of protein matters when considering a high-quality diet. FATS The rest of the diet should be made up of fats, carbs, and vitamins. Labs need to have a correct protein -to-fat ratio, where protein takes the lead. Dogs tend to convert fat into glucose, so this is an important source of energy. Dogs rely mostly on protein and fats, but carbs are necessary. That said, a low carb diet is best for puppies. However, you still need the right percentage of carbs, since this gives your dog the sensation of being full. These include starches, fibers, and sugars. Try to opt for more complex carbs like starchy grain and veggies because these are easier to digest. Your Lab puppy will thrive when his or her diet includes: Vitamin B12 especially during puppy development , Vitamins A and E, C, Vitamin D, phosphorus, and calcium, Potassium Each of these required vitamins and minerals contributes to a healthy, happy, and energetic puppy. They also help offset issues like obesity. Vitamins A and E are important because they help your dog burn calories and promote eye and skin health. Vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, on the other hand, are part of a trifecta that works to strengthen teeth and bones. Potassium is a heart health-preserver. Labs with poor genetics are especially prone to orthopedic issues. Osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia are common health problems for this breed. Glucosamine, an amino-sugar, together with chondroitin sulfate, helps replace and support naturally degrading cartilage during old age. Recently,"grain-free" foods are being championed as a preferred and even high-quality form of dog food. That's, not the whole story. An investigation launched by the FDA revealed that there are potential links between a form of canine heart disease and grain-free foods. So far, researchers have provided an update to this researchers have provided an update to this research staring that the issue may not just be grain-free diets. Grain-free may be part of other trends knows as "BEG"- boutique companies. Puppy diets don't' need to be complicated. They also don't need to include ingredients that humans might enjoy. Enjoyment doesn't necessarily bring any nutritional value to your puppy's development. Keep it simple, using the guidelines for fats, proteins, and carbs above and don't shy away from food with grains in them. It's not their presence that's a problem it's often the ratio. There shouldn't be more carbs or grains than protein. Nor does including only legumes, seeds, lentils, or chickpeas as the primary ingredients make the food more superior. It's perfectly healthy to include complex carb sources like starchy rice and other grains. Grain-free isn't and shouldn't be a qualifying factor for your choice in puppy food. Feeding Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is dried, pelleted food that stores well is easy to eat, and is pre-formulated with everything your puppy needs to thrive and grow in his early developmental months. There are plenty of popular brands that don't measure up to the Snowy Pines standard. That's why it's so vital for you to learn how to read puppy food labels. Puppies should stick with "puppy stage" food, while adults should stick to bags marked "adults. Instead, your dog should have regular bowel movements, allowing them to absorb all the nutrients available. You should also keep in mind that caloric intake is calculated a little differently for puppies. Kibble diets are measured by how many calories the proteins, fats, and carbs represent for each gram. For puppies, this should be 3. Sticking to these ratios will help ensure your kibble choice is a healthy one. It's also important to note that kibble calories are often higher when compared to wet food. If it's high-quality wet food, it won't have as much fat to preserve it, which means fewer calories. You may have to supplement with dry food, especially if you're trying to keep the calories of carbs, proteins, and fats in the right per-gram ratio. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. The best food for Labrador puppies to consume in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to trained breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a Labrador puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. You can do this by mixing some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, you can reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed a Labrador puppy as they get older. In their four months living with you, and once they are weaned off milk, Labradors are likely to reach almost half their adult weight. They will reach their full adult weight by the time they are 6 to 7 months old. With this rapid growth can come some risks. Labradors can be susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia and joint abnormalities that can start in puppyhood. Once your Lab puppy hits 6 months, their growth begins to slow down. Once puppyhood is over, you can move to feeding your lab twice a day instead of 3 or 4 times. Labs are still very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen at around 15 months. This is because, being a breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your Labrador puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. It is also dangerous for a puppy to overeat. Labradors are large breeds, which means they need plenty of nutrients and calories as they grow to ensure they go from being active puppies to healthy adult dogs. Labrador puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, Labrador puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. The amount of food you give your Labrador is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult Labradors, around 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female Labradors, who tend to be around 5 to 10 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, to 1, calories per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your Labrador based on how calorically dense their food is. Adult Labradors should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs may benefit from exercise after eating: especially high energy Labs with a lot of energy to burn off. You should also try to give your Labrador a high quality food that is specially designed for large breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. For example, Labradors can be particularly susceptible to obesity. As a breed, they tend to be one of the most commonly obese dogs in Australia. This is due to several factors, including a genetic predisposition to unhealthy weight gain and a famously large appetite. However, plenty of Labs suffering from obesity are simply overfed and not getting enough exercise. Choosing a low carb diet is crucial to preventing obesity in your Labrador. If you are unsure about what you should feed your Labrador, you should always consult your vet. They will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any chronic health issues, and they will be able to create a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for many years to come. Wet food for Labradors is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. Chewing on dry food can be especially good for teething Labrador puppies. A raw diet can be a good option for your Labrador as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your Labrador, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. Different dog breeds will need different kinds of nutrient support as they go through the various stages of their life. It can also be easy to overestimate the amount of food your Labrador needs to stay fit and healthy — especially if they are skilled at begging! You need to make sure that your dog is eating the right amount of food for their breed, their size, and activity level. You should also avoid foods that, while delicious for humans, can be harmful or toxic for dogs. Foods like onions, nuts, alcohol, cooked bones, and artificial sweeteners are commonly included in dinners meant for humans, but can cause serious health issues for your Labrador. No matter how old your Lab is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.
Exercise Grooming In the 19th century, Shepherds bred all kinds of dogs mainly to herd and guard flocks. Thus, the dogs needed to display a high level of intelligence, extra normal strength, resilience, courage and bravery, a keen sense of smell, and trainability qualities, etc. These mongrel combinations provided dog breeds that could efficiently guard and herd flocks but differed in appearance and ability, from one locality to another. German Shepherd dogs are well known to be highly inquisitive which makes them excellent for rescue mission training. The German Shepherd has a noble character and shows very high levels of loyalty to its owners. The dog is also described as extremely territorial and has displayed characteristics of overprotectiveness in some cases. The German shepherd can survive in all types of environment; their thick furriness makes them better prepared for cold climates. German Shepherds are considered extremely playful and active. These breeds spend half of their daily routine with activities. The German Shepherd is popularly known as an athletic natured dog and requires a good dose of daily exercise to keep up muscle tone, build and development. If improperly exercised the German Shepherd has been known to become frustrated and exhibit undesirable behaviors. The German Shepherd requires an occasional brushing, as this helps with removing loose hair from its fur. The German Shepherd sheds fur once or twice a year and in this time the breed requires a lot of soft brushing. This can be done using a soft to medium bristle brush. The German Shepherd occasionally requires that its nails are trimmed off when they grow too long, however, some breeds instinctually file their nails against any hard surface that can be fine. Excessive nail growth can cause much pain and even lead to structural concerns. In choosing a German Shepherd breed you must ask yourself what it is you want in a dog and what kind of person are you? Our German Shepherd puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. Healthy German Shepherds live for as long as between nine to thirteen years, however, some german shepherd has lived much longer than Thirteen years. How fast can German Shepherds run? An adult German Shepherd can run approximately 30miles per hour. Originally the German Shepherd was bred for guarding and herding of flocks. The German Shepherd dog is highly intelligent and a fairly quick learner and that is why Police and Military institutions use them in operations. How do I care for a German Shepherd dog? The German Shepherd sheds lightly all through the year so be sure to brush it at least twice weekly. Bathe it after each shedding season. Brush its teeth at least once a month. Feed with healthy meals. Routine exercise of at least 45 minutes each day is crucial to the existence of a German Shepherd. Do they shed a lot? Yes, German Shepherds sheds heavily all year round and blows the thick, dense fur under its harsh topcoat twice a year. Are German Shepherds good with kids? German Shepherds are good with kids, however, they can become very protective because of this adult supervisor is highly recommended. At what age are German Shepherds fully grown? In moderation German Shepherds, reach full maturity between months i. There have been known cases of some Eastern European lines taking up to 3years i. Why do German shepherd ears stand up? During the early puppy age weeks German shepherds have floppy ears but this usually becomes pointed ears, standing up due to the cartilage in the ear becoming hard and strong thereby making the ears stand permanently. Are male or female German shepherd more affectionate? The female may also be less tolerable than the male when it comes to playing with children. Are you interested in purchasing a German Shepherd? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. German Shepherd Puppies Tennessee German Shepherd Puppies TennesseeThe 10 German Shepherd breeders listed above have shown good breeding programs and a deep love for the German Shepherd breed, as a result, they deserve to be on the list. We are also close to the military base near Clarksville, Tennessee. German Shepherd mix Excellent. Meet the pack of currently adoptable dogs, and learn more about our application process below. It is a medium to large-sized dog very well known for its strength, trainability, and intelligence. Search for german shepherd dog rescue dogs for adoption near Knoxville, Tennessee. Some factors that affect price include the breeder's location, reputation, and lines of descent. Their brains, size, and loyalty make them ideal police and service dogs, but they also make great friends. German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. Adopt a rescue dog through PetCurious. Our German Shepherds have excellent bloodlines that come from European breeders that focus on excellent temperaments for pet, show, Schutzhund, protection, police work, PTSD and many other varieties. With the right approach, your German Shepherd for sale in Tennessee will soon learn basic obedience, as well as more complex commands and tricks. We specialize in breeding quality German Shepherds and raising German Shepherd puppies with working backgrounds -- excellent for family pets, personal protection, and working situations. We promote obedience,agility, and lots of love as a family member. German Shepherd Breeder Nashville. German Shepherd Dogs are the perfect dog to own. With proper training and socialization, German Shepherds for sale in Tennessee make loving and loyal family members. Socialized with adults and children. Von Warfenburg German Shepherds. German Shepherd Breeder in Tennessee. Situated in the rolling hills of Nashville, Tennessee, Hillview Kennels German Shepherd Breeders provides the ultimate location for breeding the highest quality German. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale Near Jackson, TN German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. My only discouragement was not having made this commitment sooner! Tennessee .This health exam provided by PawFax has 20 criteria and must be signed off by a certified and licensed veterinarian. All of our dogs are AKC registered as well. Up to date on shots and deworming. Feel free to contact us to schedule a visit or discuss any of our fine dogs. Every German Shepherd puppy that they newly produce is raised in Joelton, Tennessee, which is located next to Nashville, Tennessee. Mengerhaus Kennels The breeders are a family that works as a team to raise the most competent and dependable breeds of German Shepherds. German Shepherd Breeders Nashville Tennessee. AKC German Shepherds of. We advocate advance health and well-being for all canines, and work to promote responsible dog ownership. Our German Shepherds have excellent bloodlines that come from European. We often use imported lines Schutzhund. The state of Tennessee is blessed with a lot of top German Shepherd breeders with a decent reputation and great puppies. The best multi-purpose German Shepherds and Shepinois in southeast Tennessee are available from Camelot German Shepherds, from intelligent, obedient home guards to therapy dogs and elite competitive working dogs! The crosses shepinois are normally only bred in two litters per year. There are 4 female and one male left. At 16 weeks old, he already weighs in at a whopping 45 lbs! He's going to be a hefty dude! Amazing Family Dogs! Breeding for Excellence! Find German Shepherd puppies for sale Near Tennessee German Shepherds are renowned for their incredible trainability, work ethic, and physical grace. They have handled German Shepherds for their lives and are not about to stop soon. Our dogs are all fed a combination of top quality grain-free kibble, home cooked food, high quality moist food, and fresh bones. We specialize in top quality German Shepherd Puppies for sale as well as Belgian Malinois cross puppies for sale. Easy, transparent and safe: healthy and happy German Shepherd Dog puppies from. We hope you find resources supporting your everyday life as a dog owner and your pups' well-being. They will be approx when full grown. Tennessee German Shepherd Classifieds Hoobly. Presley German Shepherds. Adoptable Dogs. There, they are exposed to deep family love as they are interacted with and handled by people of varying age groups. Christians Guardian Shepherds. German Shepherd mix Excellent homestead guardian. Puppies are raised following many of the methods of Puppy Culture. We have puppies for sale all over Tennessee and the surrounding areas within our Preferable Pups family of breeders. German Shepherd Breeders in Chattanooga Tennessee. Find German Shepherd puppies for sale. Their impeccable training allows them to be not only a superb guard or protection dog but also the perfect addition to any family. All of our dogs are part of the family. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Welcome to the Dog Owners' Blog! Our specialist team regularly shares articles, reviews, and guides that will be useful for all dog owners. Easy, transparent and safe: healthy and happy German Shepherd Dog puppies from the best breeders. These puppies ar… more 1 week ago on PuppyFinder. Click to browse available German Shepherd puppies from 5 Star Breeders. For more information on some of our pups that will soon be available check out our Upcoming Litters page as well as our young adults page, or available adults page for other prospects. Rosehall German Shepherds. Below are our currently available German Shepherd puppies. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Tennessee from trusted breeders. Middle Tennessee German Shepherd Rescue is a c 3 charitable organization dedicated to the mission of providing medical care, temperament evaluation, Males stand about inches at the shoulder and weigh pounds. Coldwater German Shepherds Janette Oglesby jmogsd coldwater-german-shepherds. After you have been approved for a German Shepherd puppy in Tennessee and you have selected the perfect puppy, the puppy will undergo an industry-leading health examination. Learn more 1, puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location Color. He's going to be a hefty dude! German Shepherd Puppies for Sale in Tennessee. Been checked by a veterinarian and had two of her puppy shots a more. The intelligence and protective nature of the makes it a good choice for families with children, and they make ideal family watchdogs. Camelot German Shepherds. The parents and puppies are provided the best care including a premium diet and plenty of exercise. Our German Shepherd kennel is located near Nashville, Tennessee. The cost of a GSD will depend on many factors. Do you have German Shepherd puppies for sale near me in Tennessee? Preferable Pups is always adding new fully screened and healthy German Shepherd puppies. Health, hips, and elbows guaranteed. High drive and family friendly. Litter of 8: 6 girls and 2 males. Cost of a German Shepherd Puppy in TN From some basic research on the web it seems that the average price of a good quality German Shepherd puppy in the state of Arizona. Full blooded German shepherd puppies. We are also a Belgian Malinois cross Breeder. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Tennessee from trusted. Our goal is to be able to offer your family the opportunity to welcome into your home your new best friend and family protector. Tennessee German Shepherd Rescue. Most litters we have are sable or bicolor puppies, but from time to time we also offer all black as well as black and tan puppies. Up to date on shots and dewormed. We are so eager to see the new puppies and start our training adventure. We take pride in all of our puppies. Von Anna German Shepherds. It's a great breed for active households. Welcome to Christians Guardian Shepherds! Christian's Guardian Shepherds is a family owned and operated German Shepherd breeder located in beautiful Spring City. We only have a couple of litters a year and strive to make sure these will be the best match possible. She is ready for her forever family. Search for dogs for adoption at shelters near Murfreesboro, TN. Buy, Sell or Adopt Pets in Murfreesboro. All the brilliant breeders you find on Pets4You want the best. Pet puppies occasionally available to approved homes. When a dog is ready to have puppies, it will not be interested in eating for 24 hours before, it will lick its vulva and it will have tighter contractions in its stomach that may or may not be noticea. Pomeranians for Sale in Small Pets. Murfreesboro pride parade .The new club will offer appropriate programs to service the Murfreesboro and Greater. Akc belgian malinois puppies for sale. At Premier Pups, we specialize in raising exclusive Pomsky puppies for adoption in the Murfreesboro area. Puppies for sale tennessee. She has had a personality assessment. Shop your Murfreesboro Petco store to find reptiles for sale to add to your. Dewormed Photos of parents on request Post Ad. We hold true to our Premier Promise and also provide a year health guarantee for all our beautiful Pomsky puppies. And if you are out of state, we will provide you with the best nationwide delivery options. Puppies for Sale in Murfreesboro Tennessee. Listed below are all Murfreesboro Homes For Sale, ranging in size from approximately to over TN cookeville evansville gadsden huntsville jackson, TN jonesboro knoxville lexington louisville memphis north MS northwest GA owensboro southeast MO southern IL terre haute the shoals tuscaloosa western. Beagle puppies for sale craigslist. Make sure to do research on this breed, and how it. Also, be sure to check the Pug Dog Breeder listings in our Dog. AKC proudly supports dedicated and responsible breeders. AKC Miniature Dachshund puppies, piebalds, dapple, our puppies are raised in our home and on our farm. French Bulldogs for Sale in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The best breed of dog to own is a mutt, according to Business Insider. Find and adopt a pet on Petfinder today. Two puppies Murfreesboro pic 5. Murfreesboro tn homes for sale. He is looking for an experienced Dam to breed with for his first time. Find used cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, minivans,pick-ups, 4x4s, Jeeps for sale by owner and pre-owned vehicles for sale near Murfreesboro TN. The pricing is also very reasonable, especially given the quality of the puppies. I'm a small scale breeder, so all of my dogs are part of my family. Reduced price: beautiful ckc registered maltipoo male puppies. Animal Shelter Murfreesboro TN. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we. Murfreesboro pic hide this posting restore restore this posting. These adorable home raised puppies are ready for their new homes. Americanlisted has classifieds in Fresno, California for dogs and cats. I have 4 long hair chihuahua puppies will be ready after June 6th! Dogs go into labor when it is time to have their puppies. Reptiles can make great pets from the aquatic turtles to the sun-loving snakes. Boxer puppies for sale in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Bell Buckle Yorkshire Terrier Adoption. Deb is an Australian Shepherd breeder who breeds. Poodles for Sale in Murfreesboro, TN. Look at pictures of puppies in Murfreesboro who need a home. We've connected Pride Parade is a 1. Find used cars, trucks, vans, Pride Parade is a 1. Find used cars, trucks, vans, Not registered will have first set of shots and de wormed! Animal City is Murfreesboro's most experienced and longest running pet store. Our dogs are allowed to run and chase squirrels and rabbits. All the brilliant breeders you find on Pets4You want the Bichon Frise. Many of the rescues and shelters will have smaller than average size puppies and dogs for adoption. Photos and contact info on Advertigo website. La Vergne Cheap Yorkshire the most loving and loyal parents a dog owner could ask for. Pacific NW Sportman's Show to 20, .English bull terrier puppies. Type : For Sale. Spayed Murfreesboro pic 2. Petland has variety of dogs and puppies for sale in Murfreesboro including sale in Murfreesboro, TN. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find. Our Shih Tzu puppies for sale come from either been family raised with lots of love and attention All of our puppies are. Male Maltipoo Puppies. Pet Classifieds Murfreesboro. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you. Parc At Murfreesboro offers bedroom rentals. Miniature Dogs for Sale in Daughter is iut if Rayna, wh. This is Terriers For Sale. I'm also a mother of four young kids, who love playing and interacting with the puppies. YorkiePoo, Tennessee » a great breed being that Olde English don't experience half the health problems that the regular English bulldogs will go through. All the brilliant breeders you find on Pets4You want the will help you find your perfect Chihuahua puppy for sale in Murfreesboro, TN. All puppies found here are from AKC-Registered parents. Oklahoma German Shepherd Rescue , Inc. Prices reflect the discount and is automatically applied during checkout. Buy, Sell or Adopt Pets Not registered will have first set of shots and de wormed! Find dogs, puppies, and canine of all breeds.
The range of amounts is based on the activity of your Golden for the day, either low, moderate, or high level of activity. Golden Retrievers should have scheduled times to eat daily. The scheduled times will help them with their energy levels and keep them healthy. You can schedule their eating times as to what works best for your schedule. For example, feeding them before you leave for work and then when you get home. As a puppy, they will eat three times a day, so you will need to find times in those first few months to feed them more often. When they are an adult or senior, the scheduling of feeding times will be easier because they will only eat twice daily. For a Golden Retriever puppy, the best feeding schedule is once in the morning, noontime, and in the evening. For example, you could feed their first meal at am, lunch at noon, then dinner at pm. Planning their mealtimes around your mealtimes will often make it easier for you and the puppy. Make sure to give them plenty of time after eating to got to the bathroom a couple of times before heading to bed. Hopefully, this will help them sleep for a longer period. After about six months, your Golden Retriever can go down to two daily feedings. This usually occurs once in the morning and once in the evening. They can usually last about 12 hours between meals. If it goes past 12 hours, they could become nauseated. Golden Retrievers can experience food allergies often caused from proteins in dairy or meat products. If your dog experiences symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or itching they may have a food allergy. They warn that feeding dogs any raw animal-source protein could cause illness because it has not gone through a process to remove harmful pathogens. However, a raw diet can be healthy if you are willing to go through the extra cleaning processes of the meat. This is a lot of work and difficult to do correctly and safely. We do not recommend it without expert veterinary help. Before starting a raw diet with your Golden, be sure to consult a veterinarian. Find one that is familiar with raw foods and can help with the proper handling of the foods. If you work hard to make sure your homemade foods are rich in the vitamins and minerals that a dog needs, then it might work for your Golden Retriever. It takes a lot more time to find recipes and make sure it has all the nutritional value of a store-bought dog food. If you are willing to research expertly formulated recipes internet is making it easier to do this , and take the time to cook for your golden then go for it! Consulting your veterinarian is a must before starting any homemade diet. A veterinary nutritionist should also review your plan before starting. Feeding your Golden Retriever table food is not the best practice but a small amount of dog healthy table food is fine. Some example table foods that are healthy for them are carrots, blueberries and plain yogurt. Just be aware that feeding them too much table food can throw their entire diet out of whack. They may not be getting enough vitamins and minerals like they do from their dog food. Conclusion Making sure your Golden Retriever is getting the right foods at the right amounts will help them live their best life. There are many choices of foods with all the right ingredients. Be sure to choose one that works best for you and your Golden. Consult with your veterinarian on which food will bring the most nutritional value to the health of your Golden Retriever. If your Golden is experiencing any health issues related to changing foods, visit your veterinarian. If this article was helpful, please consider sharing this post on Facebook with the button below! She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. Golden Retrievers are very food motivated. If your puppy seems to be getting fat, you may need to switch to the lower end of the above recommendations. Alternatively, if their ribs are becoming too prominent, you should work to the upper ends of the guidelines. Golden Retriever puppies have much smaller stomachs than adults. This means their daily food allowance should be split into smaller, more frequent meals. Rather than just feeding them once in the morning and once in the evening, as you might plan to do eventually, their food will need to be split into 3 or even 4 portions, like so: 8 — 12 weeks: 4 meals a day 3 — 6 months: 3 meals a day 6 — 12 months: 2 meals a day However, like the feeding charts, this should only be used as a guide. Feeding too much food at once can lead to cramping, vomiting, diarrhea, and discomfort for your puppy. How to Choose the Best Golden Retriever Puppy Food Puppies need a balance of certain nutrients and vitamins to support their growth — not just as much food as possible. In fact, simply giving as much food as possible is linked to certain joint-related health problems. So, when searching for a high quality puppy food, there are a few key ingredients you might want to search for. This includes a real meat source, and the correct amount of nutrients like calcium and iron. Commercial Food vs Homemade Food There are pros and cons to every type of puppy food available. Dry food is long-lasting and easy to use during training, but can contain filler ingredients. Wet food is palatable and easy to serve, but can be more expensive and harder to use during training. Homemade food is often very appealing in terms of taste for our dogs, but is the most likely type to contain nutritional imbalances that can lead to serious health problems. So, they will continue to grow and develop physically until somewhere between 12 and 18 months. You may want to transition your puppy to a new food when you bring them home, rather than whatever your breeder was giving them. Ideally, you want to make the change over the course of a week. Replace a very small amount of their old food with their new food at mealtimes. Over the week, you can change these amounts by decreasing their old food and increasing the new. By the end of the week, they will be eating only the new food. Changing abruptly can cause stomach upsets and symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. But, Golden Retrievers should generally look lanky rather than chubby. But, the most successful rewards in this type of training are often food, such as kibble or small chunks or meat and cheese. Doing all of your training in the morning can lead to stomach upsets if your puppy ends up eating a large amount of their daily allowance all at once. Instead, try and complete shorter training sessions before each mealtime, and give whatever allowance is left for each meal after training is done. This can also benefit your training, as a hungry dog will be more motivated to work for those treats! Learn more » Congratulations on your new golden retriever puppy! You now have a beautiful, smart, and loyal dog who will love you for life. To make sure they grow into a healthy and happy companion, you need to feed them the right amount of food. At months old, which is usually when they are ready to leave their mother, a golden retriever puppy should be eating 3 cups of dog food divided into three meals per day. This is based on a typical large-breed puppy food. Different brands will give a feeding guide on their packaging. However, how much and how often to feed your golden retriever will keep changing during this time of rapid growth. Golden Retriever Puppy Feeding Timeline Image Credit: PxHere All puppies are different as are the foods, but some general guidelines for feeding your golden retriever during their first year are: 0—6 weeks: A golden retriever puppy can start eating solid food when they are 3—4 weeks old. Give them a total of 3 cups of dog food per day by their third month, 3 to 4 cups by the time they are 6 months old. The AKC recommends waiting until large breed puppies are at least 12 months old before switching them over to adult dog food and more likely 18 months. The amount will depend on their weight and activity level, but a rough guide is 1—2 cups per meal. Image Credit: Kinek00, Shutterstock Large breed puppies like golden retrievers should eat three to four small meals a day for the first 3—6 months of their lives. Smaller portions spread throughout the day are easier on their tummies and help prevent bloat, a serious condition that can be deadly for dogs. It also helps them maintain their energy level throughout the day. Puppy food has more calories and fat to support their growth, as well as extra vitamins and minerals for their developing immune and nervous systems and bones. The protein source matters, too. Puppies need animal-based proteins like chicken, beef, or lamb for their growing muscles. Choose a Large Breed Formula: Large breed puppies grow quickly, which means they need extra support for their bones and joints. Formulations for large breeds contain the correct calcium and phosphorus ratio for strong bones and glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints. They can help you choose the right food for your puppy based on their age, weight, and activity level. But puppies need to be fed on a schedule to prevent them from overeating and becoming overweight. How do you know if your puppy is getting enough to eat? After that, their growth will start to slow down. He Has a Healthy Appetite: A healthy puppy is interested in food and eager to eat. He Has Plenty of Energy: A well-fed puppy is full of energy and ready to play. Make the most of mealtime with these tips: 1. It also helps other aspects of puppy training, such as potty training and crate training. Image Credit: Alena Marchuk, Shutterstock This means leaving food out all day for them to graze on whenever they want. Leave food down for 10 minutes and then pick up what is not eaten. If they have not eaten anything, offer it again in an hour. Slow them down by scattering their kibble around the bowl, using a puzzle feeder or snuffle mat. This will help them learn to eat slowly and enjoy their food more. If your puppy is not drinking enough water for your liking, try adding a bit of broth to their bowl to make it more appealing and help them stay hydrated. Resist the Urge to Sneak Them Table Scraps Puppies are experts at giving those big, soulful eyes that make it hard to say no. But resist the temptation to give them table scraps or human food. Aside from teaching them bad manners, it can also lead to health problems, like obesity. A lot of human foods are not safe or healthy for dogs. For instance, garlic and onions are toxic to dogs. Oily food can upset their stomach, and carbs add a lot of calories. This helps them learn that mealtime is a specific time and place and not something that happens all over the house. Let Your Puppy Eat in Peace. This includes other pets in the house and small children who might want to bother them or try to steal their food. Otherwise, meals can become a stressful experience for your puppy instead of a happy one. Conclusion Feeding your golden retriever puppy the right amount of quality dog food will establish a strong foundation for their health and happiness. In addition, make mealtimes more meaningful by turning them into lessons and bonding moments between you and your dog. The puppy phase is over before you know it, so enjoy it while it lasts! Read the full disclosure here. Being a large and energetic dog, your golden retriever has a ravenous appetite and can eat a lot. However, overfeeding is never good and could be avoided with the help of a golden retriever feeding chart. Knowing how much to feed your golden retriever is always tricky but essential for their well-being and health. Goldens are prone to obesity and joint problems, which can only be exacerbated with an inadequate feeding plan. So, stay with me to find the right feeding plan and meal schedule for your goldie. Most first-time owners think their puppies should be chubby. In truth, golden retriever puppies are supposed to look lanky and act like they are always hungry when fed the correct amount of food. To encourage proper growth and development without making your pup obese, you will have to know how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. For example, cheaper foods use fillers and have a smaller amount of calories, thus you will have to feed more than you would when using premium large breed puppy foods. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. We all want our golden retriever puppies to be healthy and happy. We envision them running through a verdant field chasing a ball. Full of energy with the beautiful, lustrous golden coat. But, just like us, eating the proper food in the proper amounts will help your golden properly grow and thrive. After all, what we eat impacts how healthy we are. How much you should feed your golden retriever puppy will vary depending on the quality of food you feed, his age, his weight, his general health, and his activity level. Your golden will be growing for up to two years. And the amount of food during that time will have to be adjusted depending on his needs. Because most people feed kibble to their pup, this article will focus on that. Kibble is convenient and cost effective. Instead, they should be lanky and full of energy. They should love to eat their food with gusto. Instead, you should be able to feel his ribs when you pet him there. There should just be a thin coating of fat under his skin. And he should have a defined waistline. Of course you should check with your veterinarian to make such adjustments. And remember a young puppy should get only so much exercise a day. Their joints and bones are developing and can be damaged if the exercise is too extreme. Assuming you have an eight-week-old puppy, he should receive three to four meals a day. From eight weeks old until about five or six months old, three meals per day are advisable. Of course, feed at the same intervals every day and split the total amount per day in half to be given at each feeding. After about six months of age through adulthood, two feedings per day are the norm. Always check with your vet regarding how much and how often to feed. These are just guidelines. Feed him at the same distraction-free location so that he focuses on eating. As much as goldens love to eat, a young golden puppy is also very easily distracted. This can lead to possible health problems, including joint and bone problems. Goldens can easily become overweight. Free feeding can also lead to a picky eater. Some puppies figure out that if their buffets are always there, and they can just go graze at will. Most foods you purchase will have guidelines on their bag or box. When you first get your puppy, feed him the same food that the breeder or rescue fed him for a few weeks. Then, if you want to change his food, do so over at least 10 days. Add more of the new food and subtract more of the old food each day. After about five days, you should be giving him approximately 50 percent of the new food and 50 percent of the old food. Switching food over such a period of time will help prevent stomach upsets and diarrhea. Overfeeding will result not only in him becoming overweight but it will also make him grow too fast. Periodically—even weekly— test whether you can still feel his ribs without them protruding. You can then increase the amount he eats. You should also feed his last meal of the day at least 90 minutes before his bed time so that he can digest his food and potty before bed. A well-balanced, high-quality food should provide all the nutrients he requires. Golden puppies require a formula made for large-breed dogs. Puppy formulas for large-breed dogs regulate their growth. Eating too quickly can lead to digestive upsets and even bloat, which can be deadly. I rescued my golden retriever Riley when he was about six months old. To say that he ate as if it were his last meal would be an understatement. He had a voracious appetite. I bought one of the maze bowls to slow him down. The kibble is placed between each section of the bowl, and he had to forage for his food. It worked! He ate at a more normal pace. Of course, dogs should be given free access to fresh water. Other Feeding Options Although I concentrated in this article on feeding kibble to your new puppy, there are other options. There are some drawbacks to them because they may not be nutritionally complete, may be cost prohibitive, or may be too time-consuming to make. Wet Food Canned food alone or mixed with kibble is an option. But wet food alone is very expensive. He may become a picky eater. Feeding raw is controversial. Dehydrated raw foods reduce some of the risks. The ratio of calcium to phosphorous is crucial to puppy development. Homemade Diet Cooking for your best friend can be very appealing. And many people do. You know what ingredients and their quality are. But it has its drawbacks. Of course, the amount you feed is important for his growth rate and general health and well-being. But there is no one-size-fits-all in determining how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. Any amounts you see are just guidelines. Adjust them as necessary regarding your own special puppy. Do you have a golden retriever puppy? How did you determine what and how much to feed him? Please leave your comments in the section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation. They are famously loving and playful family pets, always eager to jump in the pool or snuggle up with you on the lounge. They are patient and energetic dogs who are easy to train, making them excellent service animals as well as loyal companions. If you are bringing a Goldie into your family, you might also be aware of their reputation as food lovers. Your Goldie might want to eat anything and everything you put in their bowl — and maybe even anything left on an unattended plate. In this Golden Retriever feeding guide, Hypro Premium will take you through everything you need to know when it comes to food options for your pup. The best food for most young puppies is milk. If you are weaning a puppy, you can start to mix in a little dry kibble with their puppy milk to create a paste. You can feed this mix to your puppy up to four times a day, slowly reducing the amount of milk you mix in. Over time, your Goldie puppy will get more comfortable with solid foods, until you no longer need to include any milk in their diet. While chubby little puppies are cute, your Goldie should not build up too much excess fat once you start feeding them solids. Goldies go from a small 4kg puppy at 7 weeks old to an almost 30 kg adult dog in the space of only 10 months. At six months old your puppy will still be growing, but more slowly as they reach most of their body development milestones. This is why appropriate feeding in the first year of their life is vital to the overall health of your Goldie for years to come. Over time this can increase to up to 4 cups a day at 10 months old, though females should usually only need 3 cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy is often dependent on their size and sex. While they may have some growing left to do, it depends on your dog. Some Goldies will continue to experience growth spurts before their second birthday, while others will stay the same size. Large breeds can be at risk of growing too fast, which can make them more vulnerable to skeletal and weight problems when they get older. Golden retrievers are especially prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can be avoided through diet control. You should feed your Goldie between 3 — 4 cups of food per day over two meals. Adult dogs and puppies have different nutritional needs. This is important to take into consideration as you are establishing a feeding schedule for a Golden Retriever puppy. Puppies require more calories to support their rapid growth than adult dogs, but they also have much smaller stomachs, which means they get fuller faster. Because of this, puppies can easily overeat, especially Golden Retrievers. You can help your puppy avoid overeating by allowing them a short amount of time to eat, and then removing their bowl. All puppies grow a lot during their first year, but large breed puppies are more likely to suffer from negative health consequences as a result. In order to provide your Golden Retriever puppy with the most appropriate food to support their rapid growth, consider choosing a large breed puppy food. Goldie puppies need lots of protein, fibre, and fatty acids to support the development of their bodies and provide them with energy. These foods also take into account the difference in nutrient digestion between small and large breeds. Too much of these nutrients can cause your large breed puppy to develop skeletal abnormalities. So how much do you feed a Golden Retriever? Your adult Goldie could need anywhere between and 1, calories per day. The amount of food you feed your dog will be determined by a few important factors. The first thing to consider is the sex of your dog. On average, your male Golden Retriever will need slightly more food than a female dog. Senior dogs will usually be less active and so will need less food. Goldies in particular can have a lot of variation in the amount of food they need on a daily basis. No matter how much you feed your dog, it is ideal that you feed your adult Golden Retriever two meals a day at evenly spaced time intervals. Feeding your dog twice, once in the morning and again in the evening, can be useful for establishing a routine and avoiding overfeeding. This routine can also include exercise, and is useful for encouraging healthy behaviour around food and toilet training. Special Considerations Your Golden Retriever could be predisposed to several health conditions that are important to consider when you make decisions about their diet. Firstly, Golden Retrievers are known for their beautiful coats, but their skin can often become infected. Goldies love swimming, but this can cause problems if water irritates their skin. They can also be susceptible to atopic dermatitis, which causes extreme itchiness, resulting in licking and biting behaviours in dogs that can cause even more damage. For dogs prone to skin and coat issues, a fish-based diet can help alleviate symptoms. Fish contains plenty of fatty acids, which support coat and skin health, and rarely triggers any allergic reaction in dogs. Goldies often benefit from healthy grains in their diet, especially as avoiding them can actually leave your dog more vulnerable to nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy, or nutritional DCM. This heart disease is common in Golden Retrievers, and can be triggered by consuming too much grain-free pet food that contains legumes like lentils and peas. You should consider feeding your Golden Retriever foods that are full of grains and proteins like chicken or fish. These are the benefits and drawbacks of the three most popular options — wet food, a raw food diet, and dry food. Wet food can be a great option for dogs that need plenty of protein and fat, like working dogs or dogs with certain health conditions. It also hydrates your dog while they eat, which can be useful for dogs suffering from any illness. For dogs with highly restrictive diets, raw food prepared by you can be a great way to avoid allergens. You can have complete control over a raw diet, which does require a lot more work on your part, but can have great results. For instance, a Golden Retriever with heart issues should eat a low salt diet, which can be easier to achieve if you are preparing their meals from scratch. However, low quality kibbles tend to be made up of a lot of low quality fillers, which can be hard for your pup to digest. Whatever option you choose for your Goldie, make sure it is suitable for large breeds and contains high quality ingredients. This will help prevent degenerative health disorders in the long run. Your Golden Retriever will probably love food, and will probably try to eat anything you put in front of them, which means you need to help them avoid the negative consequences of overeating. Golden retrievers, like other large and active breeds, need plenty of exercise. Not only is this vital to their physical health, but it also ensures they grow up well socialised and mentally stimulated. As your Goldie grows from a puppy to an adult dog, the amount of meals they need a day will reduce as their digestive systems become more developed. Your dog will need two meals a day, once in the evening and once in the morning, from the age of 6 months.
August 31, Credit: Alamy The heartbreaking whimper of a puppy calling for you will tug on the heartstrings like few other things, but you don't have to suffer — and you don't have to leave it crying either, as Ben Randall explains. Can you help? Five steps to stop your puppy crying at night 1. Crate training a puppy can really help with that, as it gives them a secure and comfortable place of their own. How long should you let a baby or puppy cry for before you go to comfort them? You have to consider two things: first, will leaving them alone be negative or positive? And second, how long should you leave them for? The stress can then potentially bring on scratching, chewing, diarrhoea… and a psychological problem with getting in to a crate even in other contexts. Leave them for five mins or so, then walk in comfort them with stroking and a calm voice. If the crying starts up again, go back — but not too quickly Letting a dog cry for long enough to get stressed or upset is counter-productive, but so is coming back to him immediately every time they cry — if you do that, your pet is effectively giving you a dose of dog recall training! A few minutes is plenty to stop that from happening, though; just go back and comfort them again, and then leave the room as you did before. Let their bed be a safe space at any time of day Recommended videos for you With my own puppies, they often take themselves out of the kitchen into the hall by the stairs and stand or sit next to their crate. When they do this I start to leave it open so they have access to it, so they have their safe spot to retreat to. Uninterrupted sleep is possible… Dog recall training: Six tips from champion dog trainer Ben Randall Training your dog is not easy — and with the huge recent rise in dog ownership, it's never been a better A puppy will quickly get used to his or her crate — and it'll become a safe place in the house. Credit: Sarah Farnsworth for Country Life Award-winning dog trainer Ben Randall — who looks after the dogs for everyone from David Beckham to Gordon Ramsay — happened Credit: Alamy Fed up with Fido leaping onto the furniture — whether it's your sofa, armchair, or your bed — whenever he Credit: Getty Introducing a dog to a cat can be nerve-wracking, but get it right and the two of them can get Related. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Congratulations on your new furry family member! A puppy is so much fun. But training a pup to like and not bark in his crate can be frustrating. Persistence and patience are key. Crates can be great aids to help train your puppy. They help to housetrain him and keep him from destroying your house. We all know of someone whose puppy cries throughout the night. Some were easier than others. She not only whined but, for the first couple of days, let out a blood-curdling scream occasionally when in her crate. It took her many days to learn to feel secure in her crate. After persisting and many sleepless nights for me , she now loves her crate. Here are some more great tips on helping a puppy be quiet at night in a crate. The puppy should look forward to being in his crate. Place a blanket or towels to make it a cozy den. He may even dig into them to make his own bed. If you can, get one with the scent of his littermates or one from his former placement. It should make him feel calmer to have a familiar smell. You can also put a warm water bottle wrapped in a towel in the crate. Or you can purchase something called the Calmeroos Puppy Toy that simulates a heartbeat and has a warming pack, which can help the puppy feel calm and safe. Place the crate where your puppy can see you. Usually, this is in your bedroom at night. There are many types of dog crates. I have some of my crates over a dozen years. My current puppy Millie loves her wire crate now and even goes into it on her own to rest. Buy a wire crate that has a divider, so that you can move it as the puppy grows. Most come with a plastic tray at the bottom that slides out and can be cleaned. We bought a Midwest LifeStages crate for Linus over 15 years ago and use the exact same crate today. So the plastic tray becomes handy then. One of my golden retriever rescues, Riley, was about six months old when he came to me. He started to pull the blanket in, chewing little pieces off. It turned out he liked being in the wire crate without a cover within a few days and settled down quickly to rest. Plastic Kennel Some dogs like the security of a plastic kennel. I have those too and generally just use them for the dogs while traveling in the minivan. When I first purchased a plastic kennel, I waited until the dogs were full-grown. I love them when I take the dogs somewhere, such as to a hotel room. In addition to being ruined, your precious furry companion could get loose and into trouble if he chews his way out. The first day, your pup is just getting used to being with you. If your puppy plays with toys, you can throw a toy into the crate to lure him into it. Leave the door open so he can go in and out. Calmly praise him when he enters. Ignore when he exits. Once he knows some commands like sit, you can also exercise his mind before he goes in. In all you do with your puppy, you want to set him up to succeed! As stated above, make sure that the crate is a welcoming place with a towel or blanket. Also, a warm water bottle wrapped in a towel or a Calmeroos Puppy Toy can help. A ticking clock placed outside the crate helps some pups relax. Even the soothing sounds of soft music or white noise or a relaxation sound such as ocean waves can help some puppies be calm. A shih tzu puppy I had appropriately named Cuddles really settled down when I played a sound machine of ocean waves. You can get an app on most smartphones today to play such soothing sounds. Over the next days and weeks with your puppy, you can work on luring him in the crate. Gradually build time. We have an extensive step-by-step guide detailing how to slowly introduce the crate to a new puppy. I recommend the Extreme Kong. I freeze it when some mashed dog food about a quarter full. It made his training so much easier. Some let out a little whimper, others have a full barking session, and everything in between. Puppies are such small, helpless creatures. Their distress is real. Puppies cry in their crates for many reasons such as: loneliness; fear; boredom; having to potty; or missing their littermates. You can take him out a few times if he keeps crying. But after three or four times of trying to get him to potty, I let the puppy cry themselves out. So, a two-month old puppy can hold it for about three hours overnight. Remember: it will get better. The vast majority of young puppies adapt to a crate. There are other things you can do to help your pup to adapt to his crate, such as plug in an Adaptil diffuser a dog-appeasing pheromone near the crate. An adult dog that I adopted had major separation anxiety. Spraying his bedding with one of these seemed to help. Many have had success with the ThunderEssence spray. There are some methods that were used in the past to try to make a puppy quiet down in his crate. Banging On the Crate. Although some puppies may quiet down, it will make the crate a terrifying place the pup will avoid. Using the Crate as Punishment. You can always deal with the wayward chewing by giving the pup more exercise or redirecting him to an appropriate toy or chewy. Hollering at the Puppy to Be Quiet. Doing this can make a new puppy fear you. Spraying the Puppy With Water. This method was used years ago by many puppy owners. Some still use it. Shaking a Can Filled With Pennies. Definitely not calming. One important fact everyone needs to remember is that every puppy is different. Some puppies adjust to the crate right away without a peep. While others may cry, bark, and whine for days, weeks, and even months. We detail several things you can do to help your puppy stop barking in his crate at night. One final thing to remember is when it comes to training your puppy be patient, persistent, and consistent. It can take some time, but in our experience every puppy eventually figures out and loves his crate. Do you have a puppy that barks in his crate at night? Are you having trouble with crate training? Tell us about your experiences in the comment 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. Why is my puppy crying at night? February 12, Puppies generally go through a period of anxiety as they settle into their new home and often cry at night. Read on to find out the reasons for your puppy crying at night, what you can do to settle your puppy and how long this period will last. Why do puppies cry at night? Even for a second. This is because dogs are social animals and are used to having company. This means that puppies can feel vulnerable at night if they are left on their own. They cry because they need company and comfort. Puppies may also cry if they want to go to the toilet. Other dog owners who read this article also read this one about puppy toilet training. Should I leave my puppy to cry at night? After a couple of weeks we moved her downstairs without any problems. However, the reverse is true. You can start off with your puppy in your bedroom. As they become settled, you can gradually move their bed out of your bedroom and to the place where you would like them to sleep at night. This will only be a temporary move, just until your puppy is settled and sleeping comfortably at night. That way your puppy will know that you are nearby and this will help them to feel less anxious. You can also respond quickly if your puppy is crying to go to the toilet. It will be stressful for your puppy if they have to go to the toilet in their crate. In the early weeks, your puppy will need to go to the toilet often, day and night. Other dog owners who read this article also read this one about crate training a puppy. How long will puppy cry at night? I can barely keep my eyes open. This initial period of your puppy crying at night will soon pass once they are settled and feeling more secure in their new home. What to do when your puppy cries at night? If they are crying because they are feeling anxious, then some gentle reassurance from you that you are close by maybe all that is needed to settle them back to sleep. Does your puppy need to go to the toilet? Take them outside to go and them back to bed again with as little fuss as possible. However, your puppy may just whine sometimes for attention. You will soon learn what the different cries mean, when you should respond and what you need to ignore. Just like a human baby, your puppy will need to learn to sleep through the night. It can take a while before they are settled into a regular sleep pattern. This in turn will mean that your own sleep pattern will be disrupted. Sleep deprivation is unfortunately one of the downsides of having a young puppy. But it is a phase and it will pass. Have you heard of Adaptil? Adaptil is a product that releases dog-appeasing pheromones to help dogs feel calm. Adaptil Calm is available as a plug-in diffuser for dogs of all ages. You can also buy Adaptil Junior, which has been specially designed to comfort puppies at night and is worn as a collar. Coventry Hi and welcome to the forum. When my girl arrived at nine weeks I slept in the spare room with her for a couple of nights, mainly because my husband works 12 hour days and needs his sleep. She settled really well and I have never had any night time crying. I know some people don't like doing that and it's fine but for me it worked. She now sleeps in the kitchen at night Your little pup is probably feeling sad and missing his mum and litter mates. Make sure his bed is nice and cozy if possible some nice big soft toys or a cuddle pal. I found crating Mabel invaluable it has given her a lovely safe den. It's never used as a bad place but a really happy one. I know it's really hard but don't return to you pup until there is a break in crying. At some point he will have to stop for breath then go to him. I wouldn't say no as it has absolutely no meaning to your puppy at all. You must be feeling so tired try to remain positive and up beat it really helps. I wondered if you had any sort of routines puppies are such creatures of habit. I suggest you play gently with him before bedtime maybe a little training. Nothing too much as you don't want to over excite your pup. When you mention his crying is less during the day if you go upstairs does this mean that you leave him on his own for periods of time. At this age I wouldn't leave a puppy on their own for very long. I didn't leave my girl alone during the day for longer than minutes during the first couple of weeks. Others on the forum will be able to advise you better than myself on the length of time a puppy can be left. Hope this helps. Separation anxiety Puppy screaming in the crate for hours You may think that the puppy will go off to sleep quite quickly. Some puppies will cry for most of the night. And unless you live in a soundproofed room or own a mansion, you will be able to hear the noise. Not only will you hear it, your neighbors will hear the puppy too. And they are unlikely to be happy about it. And puppies left to cry it out at night may become so distressed that they have diarrhea. Which they will then walk in and get in their fur. I can tell you from experience, that shampooing a puppy in the wee small hours of the morning is no fun! All in all, having the puppy by your bed for a few nights, is looking like the more attractive option. Are we talking minutes, or hours? Although some puppies give up within half an hour or so, if you leave them to cry, the other issue with leaving a puppy crying, is that some of them have quite amazing stamina, and can literally keep crying all night! The puppy can smell and hear you and if they stir or get upset to begin with, you can reassure them with your hand. You need to spend some time over the next few days preparing your puppy for the transition to their permanent sleeping quarters. At the moment nothing in your home is familiar. Small puppies in the wild are extremely vulnerable and it is vital for their survival that they are never left unattended unless in the safety of their den. So puppy crying is an instinctive cry for help if they find themselves alone outside their den. And puppies will rest happily when they are inside it. Their happy place. Your puppy will soon be taking themselves off happily into their crate for daytime naps. And in a few days they will be able to sleep there at night too, without being afraid. How long do puppies sleep at night? Most puppies sleep quite well for about ten hours, from mid evening until early morning about 8pm until 6am with a bathroom break at your bedtime and for the first two weeks, again during the night. A sensible bedtime, just as you would for a small child, helps the puppy to relax and sleep deeply. Crating a puppy at night really helps if you want to establish a bedtime for them. Getting your puppy to sleep at around 8pm in their crate, but letting them out for a last pee at 11pm, is a good way to get the night started well. Should you close a puppy crate at night? If you crate train your puppy during the day and establish the crate as a lovely den, then when you come to put them to bed at night you should close the door. The most common cause of puppy crying during the day is as a result of the puppy being left alone while the grown ups go to another room. The best way to avoid this problem is to keep your puppy with you as much as possible for the first few days, then to teach them to be alone in easy stages. Being left in a crate is actually two new things: being shut in, and being left. Crate conditioning The process of crate conditioning is all about getting the puppy used to being put in the crate. Having the door shut behind them and then being let out again immediately to start with Should my puppy nap in the crate? This is where you put a sleepy puppy into a crate and wait for them to go to sleep. During crate nap training, you need to stay near your puppy, in the same room. If you want to watch tv bring the crate in with you. Leaving the room This is the final stage where you start leaving the room for very short periods of time. Just a few seconds to begin with. But how long should you let a puppy cry in a crate? Leaving a puppy to cry it out is a risky strategy. Many puppies will to cry long enough that they need to toilet again. Then you have a crying and a bed wetting problem on your hands. A puppy that yells if you leave the room for five minutes, needs to go back to being left for only a minute or so with plenty of treats fed through the bars at intervals which you can gradually space out. And you also need to avoid teaching your puppy to cry in order to get you to let him out. Crate Training A Puppy At Night Crate training a puppy at night is different and easier than crate training during the day. And even if your puppy objects to be crated during the day they are likely to sleep happily in a crate at night, provided that the crate is near to you or another dog for the first few nights. Learned Crying In Puppies Puppies learn through the consequences of their behavior. And they learn very quickly indeed. If a good thing happens when the puppy cries, his crying will be reinforced ie more likely to occur again in the future. He will learn to use the crying in order to fulfil his wish for more food, cuddles, attention, company and so on. Even when he does not feel threatened or anxious. Many puppies fall asleep quite quickly in their crates to begin with and the family gets on with life, relying on the puppy to let them know when they are awake and ready for more fun. And this can quickly become a habit. Whining In The Crate Whining in the crate tends to happen because the puppy has learned to whine in order to get the door open. And whining to be let out of the crate is really common. And the best way to avoid it, is to get your puppy up before they start whining. So that the habit never becomes established. When you are crate nap training, wake your puppy after 15 minutes or so of sleep. Play a little while, then put the puppy back in the crate for another nap. It is essential if you crate your puppy during the day or at night, that you give him chance to leave the crate often enough to keep himself clean. Teaching Puppies To Be Alone It is nice to see that some veterinarian puppy packs are including information on teaching puppies to be alone. If you go out to work, then your puppy will probably be spending some time alone from an early age. But not all puppies learn this valuable skill. But within a couple of weeks of bringing your puppy home, he should be capable of being left on his own for ten minutes without screaming the house down. One study showed that the majority of puppies left home alone for up to 60 minutes did not exhibit stress related behaviors, and those that were stressed improved with practice at being alone. Note that this was a maximum of one hour. Long periods of isolation are not appropriate for young pups. Some puppies are very vocal for much of the time and quickly learn to cry for attention throughout the day. This means not doing anything that the puppy might perceive as rewarding whilst he is crying. Including picking him up, entering the room he is in if you are not there already, feeding him, talking to him, letting him catch sight of you if he cannot see you already. But if you can stick to this rule, and make sure your family stick to it too, the amount of crying in your house will soon be very minimal indeed. Try to pre-empt potential episodes of crying by ensuring that your puppy gets regular periods of company, plenty of opportunity to use the outdoor toilet area, plenty of safe toys to chew and a safe, familiar place to sleep At the same time, it is important to reinforce any periods of silence, so that the puppy learns that being quiet is a better way to get his needs met in our illogical and modern world. By the time you have got to the puppy with a reward, he will probably have started howling again, and you will end up rewarding the noise instead of the quiet. I have a clicker on a lanyard around my neck for the first few days with a puppy in our home. When the puppy is being quiet, I press the clicker and reward the puppy with a treat or a cuddle. This is especially useful if a puppy has started yelling when you leave the room. Wait for a pause in the crying, then click for quiet, and return. You can give the puppy a treat as a reward. Building up time alone With a puppy that cries when left, over the space of a few days you can ask for longer periods of quiet before you press the click. Two or three seconds, then five, then ten, and so on. Working your way up to a minute or so. If you get this right, by the time you get up to waiting one minute, most crying will have stopped and the puppy will be silent most of the time. Crate Training Your Puppy Many people give the puppy the run of the whole house when he arrives in their home. Restricting puppies to one or two rooms initially helps them feel safe and secure, as well as giving other family members a refuge away from biting teeth! Remember, when your home begins to feel like their home, your Labrador puppy will stop crying provided he has not learned to cry in order to get a reward. They need company and a little time to adjust to their new life How To Stop Your Puppy Crying In A Nice Way People sometimes worry that this gentle and gradual approach to raising puppies and teaching them to be alone will spoil them. On the contrary, studies suggest that higher levels of maternal care and in this case you are now the substitute carer makes puppies braver and more confident. A study published in look at separation distress in 24 young puppies and found that the most effective way to alleviate separation distress in puppies, was human company. Better than another dog, much better than toys and even better than food. In other words, your puppy needs you. On the contrary, he also needs to learn to be alone, but those first few days in your home are a special case. Puppies need to feel safe. And if you get this right, the crying will stop. Once you understand why your pupper is making that sad, sad sound, it becomes a lot easier to help them. Think back to the day before you brought your new fluffy friend home. They were probably snuggled up with mum and all their brothers and sisters at night, in the only house they have ever known. Never underestimate the power of the potty! Not a literal potty, of course, but potty training. Your pup can only hold its bladder for a wee while see what we did there? In the early days, if your furry friend can only hold its pee for a few hours you may have to make an early-hours trip to the garden each night find out more in our article about toilet training. If you get woken up by Fido singing the song of his people i. It is not playtime. Return your pooch to his sleeping quarters and leave without any fuss. It means building up a strong positive association with the crate, so that she feels safe in there. By properly crate training a puppy, crying soon turns into snoring! If she is crying and you need to take her out, get her to do something first; tell her to sit, or lie down, then reward and release! Comforting your canine companion will only ensure she tries the same tactic the next night, and the next, and the next…then you will never be able to stop your puppy crying at night. So instead of cuddles and reassurance, you can start your pooch off by letting them sleep in a crate, pen or dog bed in your room, so they know you are nearby. As they get used to sleeping in their own bed, undisturbed, you can slowly move the crate out of your room and towards the location you want it to finally rest in. You can also pop a t-shirt or other item of clothing that you have slept in and smells of you into their sleeping area, to help provide that little extra comfort. Wear your pupper out — every day A puppy that is nice and tired will have less energy for kicking up a fuss when they should be sleeping! Make sure you try lots of different ways to wear out your little one — including gentle, puppy-safe exercise, training and games. Here are 5 simple tricks you can teach your dog. Working their brains takes up lots of energy, and food puzzles can help with this too. Keep a routine Trying to ensure your puppy goes to sleep in the same place, at the same time every day is a great step to stop your puppy crying at night. But the reassurance that you will appear, like you always do, first thing in the morning will help them feel more settled. Food and water in the last hour before bedtime can also make them more likely to need a toilet trip in the night, too! Check for any injuries or signs of illness, and remember that it can take a couple of days for a new approach to start working, so you may need to be patient! Now you know how to stop your puppy crying at night, you can get on with all the good stuff! Related Articles. Key factors in night-time crying When you bring home a puppy you know that there may be some sleepless nights. But sleep deprivation is always worse than you think it is going to be! So I feel your pain! And I know you are impatient for the cure. But understanding why your puppy is crying at night is half the battle. Understanding why puppies cry at night Singleton puppies are unusual, and most puppies have slept in a big heap with other puppies from the day they are born, to the day they go home with their new adoptive puppy parents. Being alone at night is a very new experience for most 8 week old puppies. And most likely a frightening one. Most breeders provide an area of puppy pads for puppies to pee and poop at night if they need to. So the two most common reasons for a new puppy to cry at night if left to sleep on their own, are loneliness and a full bladder with nowhere to empty it. Puppies will keep their bed clean if they can. But most newly adopted puppies are unable to last a full 8 hours without emptying their bladder and will cry at night if trapped in a crate. Does my crying puppy have separation anxiety? Separation anxiety is not a term usually applied to small puppies that are newly adopted. But rather a long term condition in older dogs that have come to fear being left alone and who may display unusual and challenging behaviors such as soiling, or destroying furniture when left. In small puppies, night crying when left alone is essentially normal, and does not mean that your puppy has an anxiety disorder. Is my puppy in pain or sick? If your puppy is eating well, pooping normally, gaining weight, sleeping, playing and enjoying life during the day, then night crying is unlikely to be due to any kind of physical problem. Is my puppy lonely at night? This is the crux of the matter. And the answer is, yes, your puppy is probably very lonely at night. The good news is that, over time, most puppies do learn to adjust to sleeping alone. The time will come when your puppy will go to sleep at bed-time, and not wake up until morning. Comfort and company Puppies need a comforting calm place to sleep, and for the first few nights in their new home they also need company. Of these two factors: comfort and company, company is by far the most important. Some soft vet bed to line the floor of their crate or basket. And a soft toy or two to snuggle up to should do the trick. I much prefer to bring the puppy into my room. I put a travel crate on a chair right next to my bed so the puppy is inches from me. That means working backwards a bit to get a good bedtime routine going. Make sure the last hour or two of the evening is a calm and sleepy one. Have the lights dim and the TV on low for the last couple of hours before bed, so your puppy sleeps during the late evening and is ready for a pee at bedtime. Usually you just need to show your face and the puppy will stop crying. The problem with soothing the puppy at night is that it tends to reinforce the crying and prolong the problem. Your puppy is lonely and scared and you being angry and I really do get how you feel at 3am in your pajamas is only going to make things worse. With any kind of noise issue in dogs reward based training, where we reward the dog for being quiet , is always the way to go. Ok, so we have mostly talked about night crying in new puppies, but what about older puppies that are still crying at night What about a 12 week old puppy crying at night? If you are still on speaking terms with your neighbors at this point, the cold turkey method can work. However, there is a risk. Because some puppies just get increasingly distressed at night and those first days turn into weeks. If the puppy has previously been sleeping well and starts crying at around the 3 months old point, then something may be disturbing them at night. After a short period of being night buddies, you may need to move the puppy out of your room in stages to break the association between night times and being sad! Finally, sleeping alone! Once your puppy is sleeping alone, stick to your routine, at least for the first few months. Good habits take time to establish. Some puppies find a ticking clock or the radio turned down low is a comfort. And unless your puppy is very small or hairless, they will probably prefer to be cool rather than too warm. When to get help from a professional Sleep is so important. I am firmly of the view that it is almost impossible to be the dog or child parent you want to be when you are constantly sleep deprived. So, if this situation is still dragging on as the weeks turn into months, you really should get some help. First from your Veterinarian. And if necessary, from a qualified pet behaviorist. Your vet should be able to refer you. Key factors in night-time crying The top reason that new puppies cry at night is because they are lonely, feeling homesick, and missing their brothers and sisters. Some lack of sleep with a new puppy is usually inevitable. If things drag on for more than a few weeks, have a chat with your Veterinarian. With a short spell of night time company, a little luck, and a little understanding, your puppy should soon be sleeping through the night on their own.
Thus, it can be quite a challenge to find this hybrid. However, if you are eager to get one as a pet, you can refer to the following lists to find possible sources of this lovable pooch. Listed below are platforms where you can possibly find a German Shepherd Heeler mix: Lancaster Puppies — Lancaster Puppies is a website where you can browse puppies of almost any breed or hybrid for sale. There are AKC-registered pets available on this site as well. You can use multiple filters to speed up your search. Greenfield Puppies — Greenfield Puppies is a platform where you can find puppies for sale from all over the United States. They also show information about each breed or hybrid they advertise. They are offering Blue Heeler mixes, so be sure to check them out. PuppyFinder — Puppy Finder is a website where you can use search filters to find pets. Each puppy or litter they offer is described well through their posts. You can try checking out our top picks of German Shepherd breeders to broaden your options when finding a German Shepherd Cattle Dog mix. Apart from buying from a reputable breeder, you can also adopt a rescue dog if you prefer a much cheaper option. They are dedicated to rehabilitating and rehoming German Shepherds and GSD mixes while also ensuring that the adopted dogs are happy in their new homes. They have been rescuing Australian Cattle Dogs and their mixes for the past ten years, and they make sure that each dog is spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped. They also aim to educate about the importance of sterilizing pets. You can inquire to see if they have a Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix on hand. You can also check out our top picks on German Shepherd rescues to have more choices in your search for the Australian Cattle Dog German Shepherd mix. This guide will equip you with the ins and outs of adopting a dog. There are also details about the requirements that adoption centers set as well as a few tips to give you a head start in applying for adoption. However, enough preparation and self-assessment should be done before bringing home one. Here are the advantages of owning a Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix: Highly intelligent: Blue Heeler German Shepherd mixes are well-known to be intelligent dogs, just like their parent breeds. Despite being stubborn at times, this highly skilled pooch is very trainable and can be obedient once disciplined. Positive reinforcement training is an excellent way to teach them. Great guard dogs: Both German Shepherds and Australian Cattle Dogs are excellent guard dogs due to their loyalty and protectiveness. The same goes for their crossbreed. This hybrid will not hesitate to defend its owner or family. Excellent workout companion: As discussed, the Heeler Shepherd mix is a very active and energetic dog compared to other pooches in the canine world. This dog is a great partner for people who have an athletic lifestyle or love outdoor activities. Overall handsome appearance: The mixture of the German Shepherd dog and the Australian Cattle Dog definitely makes sense. The compact but athletic build of the Blue Heeler and the noble and stoic stance of the German Shepherd combine to create a good-looking hybrid. Thus, this furry pooch demands regular grooming. Regular brushing is a must when keeping this hybrid. Has aggressive tendencies: A hybrid of strong character, the Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix can show signs of aggression. But this usually only happens when the dog feels threatened. Proper training and socialization are keys to good canine behavior. Can be stubborn: Despite being an intelligent pooch, the Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix can be quite a challenge to train if it fails to recognize you as a master. Obedience training and showing a firm hand can let this dog know its place. Extremely active and energetic: As mentioned, the Heeler Shepherd mix is a dog packed with energy, all thanks to its very active parent breeds. Before owning this hybrid, you must be prepared to provide it with a regular playtime schedule and a place to frolic. Hopefully, the list can help you in deciding whether a German Shepherd Heeler mix is the right dog for you or not. Lifespan Sociability In terms of energy and trainability, this breed is one of the best that you could bring home. The one area that a hybrid breed like the Red Heeler German Shepherd mix lacks is sociability rating. Both parent breeds are strong-willed and protective. There is a good reason for that. This breed was originally bred to protect flocks of herding sheep from predators. They were servants for farmers and not considered companions. However, as humans grew closer to these animals, they still thrived in a work environment. These dogs contain the same blood as Dingo dogs. Dingoes are free, wild dogs that are native to Australia. It is extremely rare to find a domesticated Dingo. They prefer to live wild, free lives, which is why Heelers have a bit of a wild look to them as well. These dogs are very intelligent and catch onto training fairly quickly, but only with owners who are persistent enough to handle their strong-willed nature. Poor socialization could lead to issues with children, strangers, or other pets. They do tend to bark a lot, and obedience classes could do this breed some good. These dogs are not suitable for cities or apartment living. The amount of energy they have pairs best with families who own a good chunk of land that allows them to run around and patrol the property. Are These Dogs Good for Families? However, not all dogs are the same. Puppies who grow up with the kids and are around other pets and animals a lot tend to adapt just fine to those around them. It is recommended to give active dogs of this size about 1. Divide this amount into two separate meals so that they eat both in the morning and at night. Cattle Shepherd mixes are happiest when they are given a specific job to do. The bare minimum amount of exercise they require is 1 hour, but they do a lot better when they have at least 2 hours of vigorous exercise every day. This level of activity is much easier to achieve when they have lots of land to explore. In other words, they are not suitable for apartment living. The biggest issue that owners face when training a Cattle Shepherd mix is breaking through their willpower. Brush through their medium-length hair once per week to remove any loose strands. They also benefit from a bath once every week or two since they spend a lot of their time outside. Keep the nails trimmed by using a sharp clipper. If you start the grooming routine when they are young puppies, then they are cooperative as adults. High; requires up to minutes of exercise daily Suitable for families Yes, for active families that can take good care of them Dietary needs High-protein diet; adults require high-quality food depending on activity level Potential health issues Hip dysplasia, bloating, deafness, eczema, epilepsy, hemophilia, and cataracts Blue Heeler History Image Source: Ezio Ricardo Martins — pexels. They are known for their herding skills and are often used as working dogs on farms. Blue Heelers are also popular pets and make excellent companions. Blue Heelers were first bred in the s and were used as working dogs on Australian farms. They are intelligent and loyal dogs and make great companions. They were originally bred in Germany for herding and guarding sheep in the late s. German Shepherds are now used as working dogs in a variety of fields, including law enforcement, search and rescue, and as service dogs. They are intelligent, hardworking, and protective dogs. GSDs make great family pets. Their coloring is predominantly black and tan, with the saddle patterning seen in German Shepherds. They may also have some white markings on his chest and feet. The mix typically stands around inches tall and weighs pounds. Their coat is thick and weather-resistant, making them a great choice for those who live in colder climates. They have the characteristic straight tail of the Australian Cattle Dog, as well as the pointy ears and broad face of the German Shepherd. Overall, they make impressive dogs that are sure to be a favorite among many people. These dogs are loyal, protective, and intelligent. They make great family pets and are excellent with children. Heeler Shepherd Mix are medium to large dogs that range in size from 35 to 80 pounds. They have a short, thick coat that can be black, brown, white or a mix of these colors. Their ears may stand up or hang down, and they have long tails. Temperament If you are looking for a dog that is both active and protective, the Blue Heeler cross German Shepherd may be the perfect breed for you. This crossbreed is known for being loyal and intelligent, making it an ideal watchdog. However, as with any dog breed, it is important to understand the Heeler Shepherd Mix temperament before bringing one into your home. The Blue Heeler and German Shepherd mix is an energetic dog that needs a lot of exercise and stimulation. If left to its own devices, this crossbreed can become bored and destructive. However, with proper training and socialization, they make great family pets. This breed is also known for being protective of its family and home, so it may not be the best choice for those who live in a small apartment. Feeding As with any mixed breed, the Blue Heeler Shepherd mix can inherit traits from either parent. The Blue Heeler is a high-energy dog that needs a diet that will sustain that energy. A diet that is high in protein and low in carbs is ideal. The German Shepherd is a large dog that requires plenty of protein and calories to support its growth and development. Training One of the most important things in Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix training is to be consistent. If you are tough one day and then lenient the next, your dog will become confused and may not respond well to training. Be firm but fair, and always stick to what you have taught your dog. This will create a strong foundation for German Heeler training. Another important tip is to use positive reinforcement. This means rewarding your dog when they do something right, such as sit or stay. This will help them to understand what you expect from them and will make training more enjoyable for both of you. Blue Heelers are intelligent dogs, so be patient with them. They can grow quite a bit in their first year and will need regular trims to keep them looking their best. Make sure to find a groomer who is experienced with German Shepherd Heeler Mix, as they can be a bit more challenging to groom than other breeds. It is important to be aware of these conditions and to seek veterinary care if your dog begins exhibiting symptoms. Some common signs that your dog may be sick include lethargy , loss of appetite, and difficulty walking. If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately. Blue Heelers are also at risk for bloat, which is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach twists on itself. This can happen if your dog eats too fast or drinks too much water after exercise. If you notice your dog acting strangely or appearing in pain, contact your veterinarian immediately. Bloat is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment. Cancer is also a concern for both Blue Heelers and German Shepherds. The most common types of cancer that affect these dogs include lymphoma, skin cancer, and bone cancer. It is important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with German Heeler and to seek veterinary care if your dog begins exhibiting any symptoms. By providing your dog with regular check-ups and preventive care, you can help reduce the risk of disease and ensure that they live a long, healthy life. Does Blue Heeler and German Shepherd mix make good guard dogs? Blue Heeler Shepherd Mix makes great guard dogs. They are loyal and protective of their family and home. They will bark and alert you when there is someone at the door or when something is not right. Heeler Shepherd mix makes excellent watchdogs and will protect you and your property. If you are looking for a good guard dog, a German Shepherd Heeler Mix is a great choice. Are Blue Heeler German Shepherd aggressive? They are very intelligent and have a high energy level. They need a lot of exercise and training. Some people think that they are aggressive , but this is not true. They are just very protective of their family and home. If you are thinking about getting a Blue Heeler German Shepherd, you should be prepared to give them the time and attention they need. They will be a great addition to your family. How much does a Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix puppy cost? Blue Heelers are bred for their herding abilities and make great working dogs. German Shepherds are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world and are known for their intelligence and obedience. If you love the outdoors and being active, then the German Heeler is definitely the right dog for you. They are a high-energy breed that loves to run and play fetch. They are also very loyal and protective of their family, making them excellent guard dogs. The downside to this breed is that they require a lot of physical stimulation and can be very stubborn. The Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix is a great choice for families who are looking for an active and loyal dog. However, they require a lot of exercise and training, so be sure you are prepared for this before bringing one home. They will make a great addition to any family who is willing to put in the time and energy needed to care for them. Conclusion The German Shepherd Blue Heeler mix is a hybrid dog that combines the best of both breeds. These dogs are intelligent, energetic, and loyal companions. They make great family dogs and are excellent with children. Blue Heelers are known for their herding instincts, while German Shepherds are known for their obedience and trainability. Sergey Uhanov, a certified veterinarian, has authored all of the content here. With over 20 years of experience in dog care and breeding three dogs of his own, he has a deep passion for these furry friends. Sergey owns a pet clinic in Israel where he provides care and treatment to dogs. He enjoys sharing his expertise and knowledge to assist others in caring for their dogs. All content on this site is written by Sergey Uhanov who is an experienced veterinarian. For more information about Sergey, click here. As Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. To ensure you select the best and healthiest puppy you can find, select one from a trustworthy breeder. You can also request that your chosen pup undergo DNA testing to know more about its heritage and any potential health problems. Make sure you provide it with two to three cups of premium dog food during each feeding. The right food will help nourish your dog and give it additional protection to fight back against certain illnesses. Hills uses only high-quality ingredients that are enriched with vitamins and amino acids and have an excellent anti-oxidant profile. It reduces digestive problems caused by gluten and has enough vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to keep your pet healthy. Taste of the Wild asserts that their kibbles are a healthy approximation of what canines in the wild will eat. It uses lean meats, fruits, and vegetables. The company only uses natural sources of antioxidants like apples, spinach, and pumpkin. They also use the cold-press process to ensure that all the healthy goodness is preserved. Taking good care and helping your dog stay safe is what every responsible dog owner wants. If your dog is a bit older, try to get any product from the best senior dry dog food list that will help extend their lifespan. Puppies have a bit different food requirements and you can find the top-quality food for your little munchkins in the best puppy food brands list. You should discuss any change in the diet plan with your vet. It loves to remain active and play all day. As a responsible owner, you should make sure that you can provide it with the necessary physical activity and mental exercises it needs to stay healthy and happy. The exercise needs of this mix will depend on which parent breed it takes after more. While the GS needs considerable exercise, it pales in comparison to the massive amounts of activity that the Blue Heeler requires. The energy levels of the German Shepherd Blue Heeler make it a good pet for a physically active owner or families who love the outdoors. While this dog that loves doing different activities, running along its owner as they jog or ride a bike is a favorite. Older kids will undoubtedly appreciate all the games they can play with this dog, but its enthusiasm might make them too rough for younger children. Your mixed breed will need a minimum of two walks a day. Aside from that, it will also need ample space to run around and play to release its seemingly boundless energy. Playing a game of Tug of War and Frisbee will bring happiness to your dog and strengthen your relationship as well. There are three types of toys that are ideal for your Blue Heeler German Shepherd cross — puzzles, chew toys and tug toys. Here are some of the best toys for your dog: Kong XXL: The classic chew toy from the company that specializes in sturdy dog toys since the 70s. Plus, it comes in a variety of sizes for your dog to try out. Place the pole in your yard and watch your dog tug and play with the attached rope. Watch your little buddy spend hours twisting and turning this toy to reach the treats. Ultra Ball: This virtually indestructible toy can be used for both outdoor and indoor play. Chuck it and watch your dog leap and run after it. HDP 18 ft. Dog Training Tunnel: If you have a large yard, a training tunnel is a good investment. It will simply soak up knowledge, making it easy to train. While this dog will learn commands easily, its innate stubbornness means it should be trained early. As a puppy, it will have a tendency to be wary of strangers and become possessive of its owners. This is not surprising as the parent breeds are family-oriented and dedicated to protecting its family. These are traits that it can carry until adulthood if it does not undergo obedience training and socialization early. Without the right training and exposure to other people and dogs, your German Heeler puppy will not learn to obey commands. In time, their protective, defense-based personality could hit extreme levels. It needs consistent, solid training and a lot of activities to exercise its mind and body. Positive reinforcement is the way to go. Use treats and praises during training. Harsh words and punishment-based strategies will only make the Blue Heeler German Shepherd aggressive. Be a strong leader. You need to step up and give your dog the leadership it needs. Proper training and socialization will lead to a well-adjusted and happy German Shepherd Blue Heeler puppy. But this crossbreed will thrive if placed in the capable hands of an experienced owner who has already dealt with strong-willed working dogs. German Shepherd Blue Heeler and Families When it comes to families, a German Shepherd Blue Heeler crossbreed will blossom under someone who has the proper training and experience in handling large and powerful working dogs. This is an athletic dog that will be happy to either help out with ranch and livestock duties, or to go hiking, camping, and exploring the great outdoors with its human. Newbie dog owners and families with young children will find the Blue Heeler German Shepherd too much to handle. If you want the industriousness and easygoing personality of a German Shepherd and the enthusiastic and affectionate ways of the Blue Heeler, then their hybrid offspring is the perfect dog for you. This dog will likewise be happy in families with older children and those who live in homes with enough space to run around. If you think you have room in your life for this unique dog, you have to step up and be the strong alpha it needs. You should make sure you can provide it with the love and attention, as well as the physical and mental care it needs. As both of his parents are shepherd dogs, the blue heeler german shepherd mix is a very active and energetic dog who would need a lot of playtimes and mental stimulation. Appearance of blue heeler mix german shepherd Like any other designer crossbreed, a blue heeler mix with german shepherd will shape up based on the dominant genes. They can look like a German Shepherd or a blue heeler or somewhere in between. Still, the below traits should likely be present. Body: They have a strong and muscular long body with broad shoulders. Face: They have a lean face with a medium to long, deep muzzle. Ears: They have erect pricked ears. Coat: They have a thick double-coat between short to medium coat length. They can come in varying colors but a mix of blue and tan is the most popular. This is a wide range and where any dog would fit would be based on whose genes are more dominant. Lifespan: They typically have a lifespan of 9 to 14 years. Check out another Blue heeler mix — Cowboy Corgi The temperament of blue heeler german shepherd mix Blue heeler german shepherd mix are working dogs that carry the traits of driving cattle. They love being engaged with work or play. And if they get bored, they may find something by themselves which could be destructive. Blue heeler german shepherd mix will thrive on human companionship. So if you are planning to leave your dog alone for a long time, this would not be the right dog for you. Here are a few of their personality traits that you should be aware of. Needs a dominant leader ACD and GSD mix may take the position of the leader of the pack if the owner is not a consistent leader. Energetic and agile Blue heeler german shepherd mix has a powerful body and are extremely energetic and agile. They would need a lot of playtimes and running or else would get bored. This is because both the parents of this breed are working dogs who were used to drive cattle. They would enjoy being active in some work which may mean both physical and mental stimulation. If they are not engaged actively, they may devise something of their own like chewing or scratching things that you may find destructive. Loyal and obedient They are loyal to their owners and family. Given proper training, they can be highly loyal and obedient companion dogs. Excellent guard dogs These dogs are fearless, territorial, aggressive, and wary of strangers. This makes them excellent Guard dogs. Intelligent but stubborn These dogs are intelligent and learn training commands easily. But at the same time, they can be obstinate as well with their free-thinking. Strong willed Blue heeler german shepherd mixes are strong-willed and confident dogs. They need an experienced dog owner who can be in charge else they would be ready to take up the position of being the leader in the pack and be aggressive to others. High prey drive Both the parents of Blue heeler german shepherd mix have a high prey drive. This can lead them to go after smaller animals like squirrels, rabbits or cats, etc. It is a must for them to be socialized since puppy age to other pets, children, and strangers. Avoid if you have young children Blue heeler german shepherd mix, if properly trained, are good family dogs who do well with older children. Though for families having children aged 7 years or less, we would not recommend them. They have a high prey drive and are considered aggressive. Young children may not know how to treat them with respect. Noisy — depends? Although the blue heelers are not known for being vocal, german shepherds do have a bad reputation for barking for their needs or if they are left alone for long. Experienced dog owners only With their wary to stranger attitude, prey drive, intelligent mind, and independent thinking, they are not recommended for a first-time dog owner. Not apartment friendly Blue heeler german shepherd mix is a very active, energetic, and agile dog. He would need a fenced yard to play and run for venting out his energy and hence not recommended for living in apartments. Care Nutrition It is recommended to give 1. You would need to adjust the diet based on the size, age, and activity level of the dog. Meat is recommended for them as a source of protein. If you do make up your mind for this food, we would recommend to slowly start mixing in your dog food before completely replacing it to be sure that your pooch is not allergic to the ingredients of this dry dog food. But they will shed heavily when their inner coat blows out. They can have a dense inner coat and a short or medium-sized outer coat based on which parent breed gene is more prominent. It is good to groom him daily but at least twice in a week is recommended. Regular grooming would help to massage the skin to produce oil and keeping the coat healthy. It will also promote bonding between the owner and the dog. This will also aid in keeping the hairs contained as the loosened or dead hairs will be removed by the brush reducing the chances of hairs spreading everywhere. It has got great reviews from dog owners and is very easy to groom. Its self-cleaning feature is great and makes removing hairs from the brush hassle-free. Blue heeler german shepherd mix needs bathing once in four to six weeks or when you feel he is dirty or smelly. Frequent bathing may lead to dry skin and other skin related ailments. Choose a natural oatmeal based shampoo. You should also need to clip his nails once every month. This would help to minimize the risk of nail splitting which could be very painful to the dog. Exercise Blue heeler german shepherd mix is an extremely agile dog who needs a lot of exercises and playtime. They need lots of mental and physical stimulation. If you are an active jogger, he would be an ideal companion. Just the daily walks may not suffice the needs of this active and energetic dog. He can play all day and hence it is recommended for folks who have a fenced yard where he can vent out his energy. Training They are smart dogs and are easy to train. They will learn the commands quickly. At the same time, they can be obstinate due to their independent thinking. So you should start the training since the beginning. Here are a few tips to train a Blue heeler german shepherd mix. Start the training at puppy age. Start with simple commands like sit, stay, and stand. Positive reinforcement training works better with them. We recommend obedience and crate training as a must for them. Obedience training helps to make them follow your commands and subvert their aggressiveness and high prey drive. Crate training helps them to feel safe when alone. They should also be socialized early with other dogs, pets, and humans so that they can become a well-adjusted dog. Health They are generally healthy crossbreed dogs but they can be prone to certain health issues. It is not necessary to have the disease but as a responsible dog owner, you should be aware of what disease your dog may be prone to. This can be painful in various intensities in different dogs but finally leads to Arthritis. This can be inherited and dogs having this medical condition should be neutered. Elbow dysplasia Elbow dysplasia is an inheritable medical condition involving multiple developmental abnormalities of the elbow-joint in the dog. Progressive retinal atrophy PRA This is a disease that leads to gradual blindness. The dog would start to lose his night vision first and then slowly it leads to complete blindness in a couple of years. This again can be inherited and the dogs having this should not be bred. Deafness This is a genetic disease prone to Queensland Heelers and can be passed upon. This could affect single or both the ears. How to get a Blue heeler german shepherd mix puppy? So you do not want a lazy pooch and have made up your mind for a Blue heeler german shepherd mix, let us look at how you can find a puppy for you. It would not be an easy task to find this designer dog breed. You should check first for the local shelters of blue heeler and then GSD ones and check if you can see this crossbreed. There might be a dog waiting for a new life. Though you may not know the details about him so it is best to spend some time before finalizing and taking him home. Pros and Cons. They might just be because blue heelers usually have beautiful shiny coats and black masks, so when you breed them with another breed that also has the same markings it stands to reason that their puppies will too. What is a blue heeler? In the past, they were used for herding cattle but now mostly as family pets or police dogs. These are large sturdy dogs standing at cm tall 20 inches weighing around 20 kg 50 pounds. They have a thick coat that can be either short or long and can be blue, black, red, or speckled. They have a characteristic black mask across their face. What is a German Shepherd? They are also large dogs, standing at cm tall 24 inches and weighing around 30 kg 75 pounds. They are bred as working dogs but are now popular as family pets too. They come in a range of colors including black, tan, and sable. They have a long coat that needs regular brushing to keep it looking good. So, when you put these two breeds together you get some pretty impressive puppies! Not only do they inherit the good looks of both parents but they often inherit the good characteristics too. This means that they are very intelligent and active, which makes them great all-rounders! Many people like to keep these mixes as working dogs because of the endurance and stamina they inherit from both parent breeds. They make excellent farm dogs and can be trained to herd cattle in much the same way as their parents do. Appearance: The Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix inherits the color of their parents, with a speckled or mottled blue coat. The mask is usually black but can become more prominent as they get older just like the Aussie Blue Heelers. They are often brown eyes but sometimes inherit the amber or green eyes of one parent breed or another. This breed gets its height from the German shepherd parent, measuring about 20 inches tall 60 cm with an average weight of around 75 pounds 30 kg. So you can see that these puppies are going to be quite large dogs, like their parents. They need plenty of both physical and mental stimulation to keep them from getting bored or restless. Training should be positive and consistent, using treats and rewards to encourage desired behaviors. Basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and down are a good place to start. Physical activity is also important for these active dogs. A good hour-long walk or run every day will help keep them in good shape and burn off energy. Playing fetch or Frisbee in the yard is another great way to get them moving. Agility courses or even just regular playtime with other dogs can provide plenty of exercises. In addition to exercise and training, Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix also needs a lot of attention. They do not like being left alone for long periods and prefer to be with their family at all times. They are very loyal dogs who crave attention from the people they love. This can result in separation anxiety if you have to leave them home alone for too many hours each day. This breed also loves children and is typically very gentle with them. However, because of their intelligence and high energy, it is important that they get plenty of quality time from any small humans in the house to help channel their boundless energy properly. If not socialized properly it may get protective over certain members of the family or become aggressive. As with all dogs, proper socialization and training from a young age are important. They need to be taught not to chase people or other animals and should learn the basic commands such as sit and stay. Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix can also get protective of their family and territory if they are not properly socialized with friends and strangers. If their coat is short and dense, then they will require very little grooming. However, if their coat is long and fluffy, they will need to be groomed regularly to avoid mats and tangles. No matter what their coat type, Blue Heeler German Shepherds Mixes should always be brushed at least once a week to remove any dead hair and keep them looking healthy and clean. They may also need to be bathed occasionally, depending on how active they are and how much dirt and mud they get into. Nail trimming and ear cleaning may also be necessary from time to time. Blue Heeler German Shepherd Mixes do not have a characteristic dog smell and are not known to drool or to have any body odor. However, if their coat is long and fluffy they may get mud and twigs stuck in the fur around their paws sometimes. Health Problems: Typically, they have similar health concerns as their parent breeds, but some ailments may be exacerbated by the hybridization. Both breeds can be prone to PRA progressive retinal atrophy , detachment of the retina, cataracts, and glaucoma. The condition of progressive retinal atrophy results in partial or total blindness for your dog which develops progressively over several months or years. The other conditions result in blindness in one or both eyes. Hip Dysplasia and Elbow Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a common problem in German Shepherds, and it can also occur in blue heeler German shepherds. Elbow dysplasia is a similar condition that affects the elbow joint. Ear Infections: Ear infections are another common problem for both breeds of dogs and can be a problem for blue heeler German shepherds as well. Ear infections should be treated by a veterinarian as soon as they are noticed in order to prevent further damage to the ear and possible hearing loss. Other Health Concerns Other health concerns that may affect blue heeler German shepherds include epilepsy, diabetes, thyroid problems, and cancer. All of these conditions can occur in either purebred or crossbred dogs, so it is important to have your dog examined by a veterinarian regularly. Personality And Behavior: The Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix is bred for its intelligence and working ability, so you can expect your puppy to be bright and full of energy. They will need plenty of exercise and training or they may become destructive. These dogs are loyal and protective of their family and make great guard dogs. They are also very good with children. You can expect your Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix to be quite energetic and dominant. Sometimes, this dominant nature can make them aggressive or overly protective of their family. They are not exactly shy but they do need socialization from an early age to help them feel more comfortable around strangers. Like most herding breeds, they can be reserved but remain loving and loyal to their family. But there is a high chance you will find it for less if you choose to adopt instead of buying from breeders. Nutrition Requirements: One of the best ways to make sure that your Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix gets the right nutrition is to consult a veterinarian or animal nutritionist. However, there are some general nutritional guidelines that all dogs should follow. First and foremost, your dog should have access to fresh water at all times. In addition, they should eat a balanced diet that consists of protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fruits and vegetables. Dogs need between 18 and 30 percent protein depending on their age, activity level, and breed. Good sources of protein include meat, eggs, fish, legumes, and cottage cheese. Dogs also need plenty of healthy carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes, brown rice, and quinoa. And finally, Blue Heeler German Shepherd mixes need healthy fats like Omega-3s to help keep their skin and coat healthy and shiny. Good sources of Omega-3s include salmon, flaxseed oil, and chia seeds. A healthy Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix needs between 60 and minutes of exercise per day. This can be in the form of a long walk or jog, playing fetch in the park, or going for a swim. By providing your Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix with a balanced diet and plenty of exercise, you can help them stay healthy and active for a long time. Both of its parents are well-known for being good with children and being loyal and protective companions. Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix puppies are usually very friendly and love to play. They are also very intelligent and learn quickly. As they grow older, they will be loyal and protective companions to their families. If you are looking for a family pet that is easy to train and loves to play with, a Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix dog may be the perfect dog for you. Just make sure you are prepared to handle the high energy levels of this breed! However, some health problems that can be shortened to years. They get along great with other animals and children. They are also very loyal and protective of their family. They are a great dog for active families who love the outdoors. The Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix is a great dog for families. They are loyal and protective of their family and get along great with other animals and children. They are also very active and love to be outdoors. This makes them a great choice for families that love to be active and spend time outdoors. This breed can be very protective of its family. They are good watchdogs, but not the best choice for guard dogs. They love to please their owners and are easy to train. It is important that they receive a lot of attention from their families. If you work all day or your family is inactive, this dog will not be happy living in your home. Socialization needs to happen during the first year of life, before 12 weeks old, and after 4 months old the most critical times. This breed should also get along well with cats if properly introduced at a young age and if they are raised with them. Pros of having a Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix: 1. The Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix is a very good guard dog as it is alert, intelligent, and agile enough to prevent an intruder from entering the house during unauthorized hours. This breed of dogs is also used as military or police dogs due to their strong physique and sense of duty towards protecting their master against any harm whatsoever. As it has a high energy level, needs lots of physical exercise such as jogging or playing ball games with you which will release all the tension built up in his mind due to work or monotony. This breed is the best to keep at home with children because it loves them and they love it in return. They are very clean dogs which also makes them non-allergenic for people who have allergies to dogs. The Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix does not bark unnecessarily due to its highly intelligent nature once trained properly by owners so that they warn their master of any unwanted intruders or suspicious movement outside instead of barking continuously which could be irritating for the family members living in one apartment after a certain hour at night. It has a long life span of 12 years or more due to its high immunity levels against diseases, infections, colds, etc. Cons of having Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix: 1. The Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix is very expensive and not easily available at pet stores or animal shelters. It needs constant companionship and without it can become destructive by chewing furniture, shoes, wires, etc. Owners need to be committed to spending time with this breed to avoid any such incidents from happening. As it needs lots of exercise, it cannot be left alone for long hours during the day when its owners are working and would require someone else to take it out for a walk or play games with it in the yard. Otherwise, it can develop neurotic behavior which is very difficult to train out of the breed. The Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix cannot be left alone for long periods at home because it has a dominant personality and could harm other pets around without any warning. It is always advisable to keep the other pets away if they are smaller in size or even cats as these two could become their food due to their hunting nature. To avoid any mishap happening, owners should not allow this breed untrained by themselves because it can snap suddenly without any reason causing physical injury to family members living with them or strangers coming to visit them unexpectedly. Since this breed enjoys chasing running animals like squirrels, rabbits, etc. They are loyal, and protective and make great family dogs. They are also very intelligent and easy to train, making them ideal for both experienced and first-time dog owners. However, as with all breeds, there are some things to consider before bringing one of these hybrids into your home. First and foremost is their size — they can be quite large, so make sure you have enough space for them. Finally, they do have a reputation of being aggressive with other dogs and animals — especially if not introduced to them from a young age — so take extra care when taking them out in public. However, with the right training and socialization, it should not be too much of an issue. It is very hard to imagine our life without this cute, cuddly family member. They are just perfect for many reasons. They are loyal, compassionate, and have the ability to understand their owners even before you speak a word! The breed gets its name from its blue-grey color which makes it resemble a heeler dog. Heeler mixes are lovable pets with usually medium energy levels so they can be great companions not only for active individuals but also for people whose physical activity level is much lower. This type of dog needs consistent training and socialization in order to stay obedient and friendly towards both strangers and other pets, especially cats or small dogs which they might perceive as prey. As for other characteristics, the Blue Heeler Mix is devoted to its family and has a tendency to form an excellent bond with kids. These dogs like children as much as the kids love them! The answer to this question is not a simple one. However, it is generally safe to say that Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix dogs can be aggressive, particularly if they are not well socialized from a young age. This is because both the German shepherd and the blue heeler are bred for working purposes, and as such, they can be quite independent and strong-willed. If these traits are not properly managed, they can lead to aggression in dogs. It is therefore important to ensure that your Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix receives plenty of socialization and training, especially if he will be around children, as these are the two groups who are most likely to provoke an attack. Additionally, it is important to remember that both parties in this crossbreed had their temperament breed into them, so even if you give your Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix constant love and attention throughout its life, they may still snap at another animal or human without warning. If your Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix puppy is exhibiting signs of aggression, it is important to take steps to correct the behavior as soon as possible. One way to do this is by enrolling them in a good obedience class. This will help to teach them how to properly behave around other people and animals. You can also try using positive reinforcement methods such as treats or praise to reward your dog for good behavior, which will help to establish a strong bond between you and your pet. If all else fails, you may need to consider using a muzzle when out in public until you can get the aggression under control. What activities are not recommended for Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix puppies? Although they are very adaptable, these dogs do best in a home or apartment with a large yard. This is especially important for this breed because of their size — adults can reach up to 70 pounds! They will want to run around outside until they drop from exhaustion, so make sure you provide plenty of space. If you live in the city or apartment, do not get this breed. Post navigation. This is a relatively new crossbreed, with a limited history. However, we can look to the parent breeds to learn more about these dogs. Both the German Shepherd and the Blue Heeler share a similar history. Both were bred to be herding dogs, primarily to be used on cattle ranches. He then spent the next 35 years refining the breed, while promoting it and forming the first German Shepherd club in existence. As commercial husbandry took over, and the need for herding dogs declined, the German Shepherd retained its role as a working dog. The Blue Heeler was also bred to herd cattle, but this time in Australia. The breed was developed through a complex mix of breeds including Collie, Dalmatian, Black and Tan Kelpie, and even a feral breed known as the Dingo. Thus, you could end up with a mix that looks more like a German Shepherd, or more like a Blue Heeler — and anywhere in between! There is always some variability with mixed-breed dogs like this, so keep that in mind. With that said, we can look at the details of the parent breeds to get a good idea of the general appearance and size that a German Shepherd Blue Heeler mix might take on. The German Shepherd is a large dog, weighing between 50 and 90 lbs and measuring inches tall. The Blue Heeler is short and stocky and generally smaller, at pounds and a typical inches tall. Thus, you can expect your Australian Cattle Dog German Shepherd mix to be somewhere in the middle — around pounds, and inches tall. Again, this varies from dog to dog and is difficult to predict! As far as their coats, both parent breeds have thick double coats to protect them from the elements. Both dogs tend to shed a lot, particularly in the spring as they prepare for the warmer months. Temperament Traits The German Shepherd has a confident, intelligent and courageous temperament. On the other hand, the Blue Heeler has an alert, curious and watchful personality. Both are extremely loyal and protective. These tendencies can be both positives and negatives at the same time. Their intelligence and confidence makes them able to accomplish incredible feats, but can also make them stubborn and difficult to train. In short, this mix needs an experienced owner. If not properly trained and socialized, this breed can be aggressive and is prone to guarding tendencies. Early and frequent socialization is very important! One need only to look at the purpose these dogs were bred for, and what they are used for today. Both breeds are herding dogs for large animals, designed to both herd and protect large groups of big animals. They are excellent at what they do, but these instincts can make them difficult to keep in domestic situations. This breed can make for a good family pet, for the right situation. While they are generally okay around children, they should always be supervised. That said, this mix can also make for a loving, and fiercely loyal, companion dog. When push comes to shove, they will not hesitate to protect their family, making them excellent watch dogs. For experienced owners, this breed can make for a good family pet. With that said, they are definitely not the easiest breed to train. Training should start early, and be conducted often. Positive reinforcement training is the most effective way to train your dog. Socialization is also important — both with other dogs, other animals, and with humans. This mix is not naturally outgoing. So, socialization is even more important than it is with many breeds. Ideally your pup should be trained and socialized from a young age, for best results. This is also a fairly high-energy breed that will need plenty of exercise. Aim for at least 2 long walks per day, and ideally mix in some higher-intensity exercise like running or hiking. You should also seek to give your dog mental stimulation by giving them challenging tasks. The Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix loves to have a job to do! Blue Heeler and German Shepherd Health This mix is generally fairly healthy, with an expected lifespan of years. Although, like any breed, some health concerns are possible. The German Shepherd brings with it a high likelihood for back problems due to the intense slope of their back. Hip and elbow dysplasia is also common in both breeds, as are certain eye problems and allergies. Some of these conditions can be tested for, and some cannot. To maximize your chances of getting a healthy pup, try to source your dog from a reputable breeder, or adopt an adult dog. Any responsible breeder should be happy to share the results of all pre screening test results on both parent dogs. Ideally, you should also take the time to meet and interact with both parent dogs before making a lifetime commitment to a new puppy. Breed Characteristics What can you expect when you decide to welcome a German Shepherd Blue Heeler mix dog into your life? What will your new dog need from you? What type of personality and temperament can you expect? How much exercise will your new puppy want and need? How about brushing and grooming needs? German Shepherd Blue Heeler Mix weight and height The German Shepherd dog can weigh 50 to 90 pounds and stand 22 to 26 inches tall paw pads to shoulder tops. The Blue Heeler can weigh 35 to 50 pounds and stand 17 to 20 inches tall. Depending on what generation your hybrid puppy comes from, the potential weight range can be anywhere from 35 to 90 pounds, which is quite a wide range! If we look at averages without factoring in gender, the most likely outcome is a hybrid dog weighing around 60 pounds and standing around 20 inches tall. The first thing to remember is that both of these dogs are true working dog breeds. Most working dog breeds have naturally high energy levels and love staying active. Both make great family guard dogs, will be protective of their home and family, and will need mental as well as physical stimulation. A German Shepherd Blue Heeler mix puppy is going to crave athletic outlets and an active lifestyle. Whether you involve your dog in canine athletics or put your pup to work, these dogs are born to work long hours with dedication and diligence. While puppies sleep a lot , you need to be prepared to devote at least two hours per day to running, playing, and caring for your adult dog. German Shepherd Blue Heeler Mix exercise and training German Shepherds and Blue Heelers have been deliberately bred through generations to work hard, long hours every day of their adult lives. The only way to know when your dog is finished growing is to have your veterinarian do X-rays of the long leg bones. What your vet is looking for is the closure of the soft growth plates at the top of each leg bone. This typically occurs at the age of 12 months or older. Once the growth plates have closed and hardened, your dog is done growing. At this point, you can train for canine athletics, K-9 protection work, or herding. With a highly intelligent dog like the German Shepherd Blue Heeler mix, only use positive reinforcement training methods like praise, treats, pats, and playtime. These dogs will bore easily if training sessions become repetitive or drag on for too long. For best results, add new skills to each training session and keep the sessions short, fun, and extremely positive. The first thing dog owners absolutely need to know about both the German Shepherd and the Blue Heeler is that each dog has the classic working dog coat. A working dog coat is a double layer coat that serves two purposes: protection and insulation. This outer coat layer protects the dog from bites, sunburns, windburns, and from being drenched in the rain. Year-round, the working dog coat sheds lightly to replenish itself and keep all the guard top hairs functional. So your German Shepherd Blue Heeler mix will definitely shed. The best way to control shedding is to do daily de-shedding and brushing. In fact, bathing too frequently can strip the outer layer of the coat of some of its water-repellant, protective properties, so you want to bathe sparingly. Young children, in particular, might find this upsetting or stressful. The German Shepherd Blue Heeler may not be the best choice in this case. Understanding Hybrid Breeding By Dog Generation As Breeding Business explains, there are several different generations that a hybrid dog breeder can choose to focus on. A breeder can specialize in multiple generations and may indicate the differences between litters on their website. This can help you decide what generation of German Shepherd Blue Heeler mix puppy you would like to add to your family. F1 An F1 generation hybrid breeder focuses on the earliest stage of hybrid dog breeding — crossing two different purebred dog breeds together to produce puppies. F1 puppies would have one purebred German Shepherd dog parent and one purebred Blue Heeler dog parent. The F1 generation is arguably the most interesting generation for dog breeders. Another puppy in the very same litter may inherit just the opposite blend of traits. F1b F1b generation dog breeding typically pairs one purebred dog parent either a German Shepherd or a Blue Heeler in this case with one hybrid dog parent here, a German Shepherd Blue Heeler mix. In this breeding stage, the breeder is refining for preferred traits, whether they be for appearance, temperament, or some combination thereof. As an example, if you need your dog to grow to a certain size, you would want to work with a breeder who focuses on F2 stage or later dog breeding. F2b The focus of an F2b breeding program is once again further refinement to the new hybrid breed through back-crossing. F3, et al With each later stage of a hybrid dog breeding program, the puppies grow more and more uniform in every way. For the right family or individual who wants to lead an active lifestyle with a dog by their side, this mixed breed dog may make a fabulous companion canine! The average German Shepherd Blue Heeler mix will reach a weight of 60 pounds, and a height of 20 inches. In actuality, your dog could be significantly smaller, or much larger. It depends on what parent breed it takes after most. Potentially, a German Shepherd Blue Heeler mix could be between 35 and 90 pounds, and 17 to 26 inches. The reason for this is the size differences between the parent breeds. While the German Shepherd is long and tall, the Blue Heeler is shorter and stockier. A fully grown German Shepherd Blue Heeler mix can be quite a big dog. On average, it will be smaller than a purebred German Shepherd. Are Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix good dogs? As an intelligent breed, they respond best to positive reinforcement. However, they can also get bored easily. When you want to train your dog, you need to take care to keep the sessions energetic. Give lots of positive feedback, keep the training short, and mix up what you do. Due to the working dog heritage, a Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix needs a lot of exercise. Long walks, and plenty of mental stimulation, are necessary to keep them happy and healthy. German Shepherd Blue Heeler mixes are loyal dogs, who can be protective. They respond well to commands, but hate to be bored. Are Blue Heelers good family dogs? Due to their size and power, their confident intelligence can be difficult to handle. The Blue Heeler also has a tendency to nip at the heels of livestock, and humans. This comes from their history as herding dogs, and often happens around running children. While the nipping may not be painful, it can be distressing. Young children, in particular, may find being nipped at upsetting. Blue Heelers should be socialized from a young age to get them comfortable around children. Many of these traits can be seen in the Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix. These dogs are loyal, and this can become protective. As German Shepherds can be aggressive, the mix has a potential for boisterous behavior. Are Blue Heelers aggressive toward other dogs? As working dogs, they have bundles of energy. Because of their working history, Blue Heelers will look for a leadership role. Around other dogs, they may try to establish dominance. Blue Heelers have prey instincts, meaning they try to hunt smaller animals. Socialization helps curb this behavior. A Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix also needs to be socialized with other dogs. Otherwise, they can display the same dominant tendencies. Do Blue Heelers like to cuddle? Instead, look for other ways to show your Blue Heeler how much you care. Although they may not crave a cuddle, there are still plenty of ways to show physical affection towards your Blue Heeler. Otherwise, give them lots of petting. Start at a young age, to get them used to human contact. There are times when you can perhaps expect a cuddle with a Blue Heeler. However, they have as many differences as they do similarities. This can make choosing a German Shepherd Blue Heeler mix puppy challenging if you want certain traits in your new canine companion. Originally bred in Australia in the 19th century, these dogs were developed to help farmers move cattle from one place to another. Blue Heelers still herd, but they make great pets. These dogs are intelligent and energetic, and they thrive on having a job to do. German Shepherd: The German Shepherd is a popular breed of dog that is known for its loyalty, intelligence, and strength. Originally bred in Germany in the late 19th century, German Shepherds were originally used as working dogs on farms and in law enforcement. Today, they are still used in a variety of roles, including as service dogs, police dogs, and guard dogs. German Shepherds are large dogs, with males typically weighing between 75 and 95 pounds. They are distinguished by their strong build, black-and-tan coat, and intelligent eyes. German Shepherds are Loyal dogs that form strong bonds with their owners. They are also highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train. The resulting offspring are athletic, intelligent, and loyal dogs that make great companions. While the exact origins of this breed are unknown, it is thought that the breed was developed in Australia sometime in the late s or early s. Thanks to their intelligence and trainability, Blue Heelers are often used as working dogs in a variety of different industries. They typically weigh between 45 and 50 pounds and stand 24 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder. The most distinguishing feature of this breed is its blue-gray coat, which is thick and dense. Like all mixed breeds, the exact appearance and temperament of this mixed breed will vary depending on which traits they inherit from each parent breed. However, this is generally a friendly and outgoing breed that makes a great addition to any home. However, they also have some differences, most notably in their appearance. The Blue Heeler Shepherd mix will usually inherit the short, dense coat of the Australian Cattle Dog, although the length and color of the coat can vary depending on which parent breed dominates. The most common coat colors for this mix are black and blue, but other colors such as red and brown are also possible. Regardless of coat color, this mix is an intelligent, active breed that makes an excellent companion for active families. Training Needs These mixed-breed dogs are often intelligent breeds and are often active, making them great candidates for training. However, they can also be headstrong and stubborn, so it is important to start training early. Blue Heeler Shepherd mixes need to be socialized from a young age, so they are comfortable around people and other animals. They should also be taught basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. With consistent training, this mix can learn complex tricks and tasks. They make excellent working dogs and can excel in canine sports such as agility and flyball. Training this mixed breed takes patience and commitment, but it is ultimately rewarding. Is this mix Aggressive? The Blue Heeler is a breed of dog that is known for its high energy and herding instincts. The Shepherd is a breed of dog that is known for its loyalty and protective nature. When these two breeds are mixed, the result is a dog that is highly active and has a strong desire to protect its family. However, this combination can also make the dog aggressive. Blue Heelers are naturally suspicious of strangers and may view them as a threat. They may also become territorial, especially if they feel that their family is being threatened. As a result, it is important to socialize a Blue Heeler Shepherd mix from an early age so that they can learn to trust people outside of their immediate family. How Much Exercise do they Need? The Blue Heeler Shepherd mix is a high-energy dog that needs a lot of exercise. A minimum of an hour a day is ideal, but this breed will happily spend several hours a day running and playing. This breed also loves to work and excels at agility, obedience, and other sporting activities. Do they need Mental Stimulation? The Blue Heeler Shepherd mix is a highly intelligent dog that requires a lot of mental stimulation. This breed is not content to lounge around the house all day and will become bored and restless if left alone for too long. To keep this breed happy and healthy, it is important to provide them with plenty of opportunities to exercise their mind. This can be done through activities such as puzzle toys, food-dispensing toys, and scent games. With proper mental stimulation, the Blue Heeler Shepherd mix will make an excellent family dog. Choose a brush that is designed for dogs with thick fur and be sure to take your time while brushing. In addition to regular brushing, this mix should also be groomed every weeks. This breed is known for being high energy, so be prepared for an active grooming session. During the grooming process, be sure to check for any mats or tangles and remove them carefully. With a little time and patience, you can keep this mix looking healthy and well-groomed. These dogs are prone to tartar buildup and gum disease, so regular brushing is a must. You can use a dog-specific toothpaste and brush, or you can opt for a finger brush. Whichever method you choose, be sure to brush at least once a week. In addition to brushing, you may also want to give your dog dental chew toys or treats to help keep their teeth clean and healthy. Nails: The nails of a Blue Heeler Shepherd mix need to be trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth. Overgrown nails can cause pain and discomfort for your dog, as well as making it difficult for them to walk and run. If you accidentally cut the quick, it will bleed and be very painful for your dog. Ears: One of the most striking features of the Blue Heeler Shepherd mix is their erect ears. This mix usually inherits these bigger ears, which can be a challenge when it comes to grooming. The first step is to choose the right ear cleaner. This will help to loosen any dirt or debris that may be present. Finally, use a soft cloth or cotton ball to wipe away the cleaner and any remaining dirt. However, this type of crossbreed tends to be healthier than purebreds, because they inherit a more diverse gene pool. This helps to reduce the chances of developing health conditions that are specific to one breed or the other. Some common health concerns for this breed include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems. Fortunately, these conditions can be prevented or managed with proper care. With the right diet and exercise regime, your Blue Heeler Shepherd mix can enjoy a long and healthy life. Because of their high energy levels, these dogs require a diet that is high in protein and fat. They also need plenty of essential vitamins and minerals, such as copper, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. To ensure that this breed stays healthy and happy, be sure to consult with your veterinarian about the best way to meet their nutritional needs. Are they Dog Friendly? Blue Heeler Shepherd Mixes are undeniably one of the most popular dog breeds. The good news is that, for the most part, this breed is very dog-friendly. They have a strong sense of pack mentality and typically enjoy being around other dogs. However, there are always exceptions to the rule. Some Blue Heeler Shepherd Mixes may be more reserved and may not enjoy being around other dogs as much. Are they Child Friendly? As any pet owner knows, choosing the right dog for your family is a big decision. You want to find a breed that is compatible with your lifestyle and that will get along well with your other family members, including children. These dogs are intelligent and active, making them quick learners. They also have a friendly nature and are typically good with kids. With the right training and supervision, a Blue Heeler Shepherd mix can make a great addition to any family. This mix is not for everyone, as it inherits some of the less desirable traits of both breeds. One such trait is the tendency to drool. The Blue Heeler Shepherd mix tends to be a very drooly dog, due to the fact that both parent breeds are known to be heavy droolers. If you are looking for a low-maintenance, slobber-free dog, this is not the breed for you. However, if you can handle a little extra drool, this mixed breed might be the perfect fit for you! However, the level of barking can vary depending on the individual dog. Some Blue Heeler Shepherd Mixes may only bark when they are excited or alerted to something, while others may bark more frequently. The best way to determine how much your dog will bark is to spend some time observing them. If you own this breed, pay attention to how often they bark and what seems to trigger their barking. This will give you a good idea of what to expect in terms of their barking level. Typical barking triggers for this mix nclude: — Hearing strange noises — Seeing other animals or people — Being left alone — Feeling bored or restless If your dog is barking excessively, there are a few things you can do to help reduce its barking. For example, you can provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. You may also want to consider training your dog to bark on cue. This can help you control their barking and prevent it from becoming excessive. Overall, Blue Heeler Shepherd Mixes are relatively barky dogs. Are they Tolerant of Weather Conditions? Blue Heeler Shepherd mixes are some of the most weather-tolerant dogs around. The German shepherd in them gives them the herding instincts that make them excel in agility and other sports. And the Blue Heeler gives them the energy and drive to work all day long. Some of these mixed breeds might not last that long due to the common health issues that they are prone to. So, if you want your pet to live a long healthy life, ensure that it gets the proper care and nutrition that it needs. Are they Recognized by the AKC? If you are interested in owning this mix, you can check with these organizations to see if there are any breeders in your area. How Much do they Cost? The Blue Heeler Shepherd mix is a designer breed, which means that it is usually more expensive than other breeds of dogs. Blue Heeler Shepherd mixes are not extremely popular, so you may be able to find a cheaper puppy if you are willing to do some research. This hybrid dog is perfect for families or individuals looking for a loyal, active pet that can provide years of companionship. And as always, remember to give your new furry friend plenty of love, exercise, and training so that both of you can enjoy life together to the fullest!
How does the Labradoodle growth chart work? The following numbers are estimates based on the litter of a Labrador Retriever crossed with a standard Poodle. If your pup's Poodle parent is a toy size, then they are likely to be significantly smaller than these estimates. Their health is what matters most, so if you have questions or concerns about your puppy's development, reach out to your veterinarian. At what age is a Labradoodle fully grown? Labradoodles typically need 12 to 18 months to reach their full size, especially if their parents were on the heavier side of the average weight spectrum. Large breeds grow slower and take longer to reach their full size compared to small and medium-sized dog breeds, which usually reach maturity within nine to 11 months. How big should a 6-month-old Labradoodle be? A 6-month-old Labradoodle may weigh anywhere between 40 and 55 pounds. As a general rule, male Labradoodles weigh more than their female counterparts. In terms of height, a 6-month-old Labradoodle puppy will stand around 14 to 18 inches tall at the shoulders, but this varies based on their genetic makeup. Pro Tip: Download our new puppy checklist for tips on how to set up a vaccination schedule, essential pet care supplies, and more. How much bigger will my Labradoodle get? There are a few ways you can estimate how much more your Labradoodle may grow. Most Labradoodles need anywhere from 12 to 18 months to reach their full size. If your pup is younger than a year old, they are likely still growing. Refer to our Labradoodle weight chart to estimate how many more pounds they might put on as they mature into adulthood. If they look oversized compared to their limbs, then they're probably still filling out. Oversized paws are a classic puppy feature indicating that your pup still has more growth underway. Lastly, if you purchased your puppy from a breeder, you can contact them about your Labradoodle's weight. Alhough the breed varies greatly in size, knowing the weight of your puppy's parents and those of previous litters can help you predict your Labradoodle's adult size. What is the size of a full-grown Labradoodle? As a hybrid dog breed, Labradoodles vary significantly in size based on their geneology. Per Agape Labradoodles , adult Labradoodles typically weigh over 45 pounds, with some Labradoodles weighing as much as pounds. However, most Labradoodles will weigh between 50 and 90 pounds. In [terms of height], Labradoodles stand 21 to 24 inches tall when measured from paw to shoulder, or approximately two feet excluding their neck and crown of the head. How do I make sure my Labradoodle is healthy? Our Labradoodle puppies are important, cherished family members who we want the best for. One of the best ways to help your Labradoodle thrive is by taking them to regular veterinary appointments to have them routinely checked out and evaluated. Prevention is always better than treatment, and regular veterinary exams provide your veterinarian with the opportunity to screen your Labradoodle for disease. Your puppy will need to see the veterinarian several times in their first six months of life for core vaccinations against things like Rabies, and then at least once a year as an adult for annual health check-ups. Like their parents, Labradoodles are also more susceptible to hip dysplasia , a common orthopedic condition that occurs when the hip joint forms improperly. Hip dysplasia can lead to pain in their back legs, impaired mobility, and even lameness if not treated - fortunately, the condition is treatable with surgery. When over 20, pet parents were surveyed, only .As loving pet parents, it can be devastating to think that our four-legged friend could develop a painful disease that requires expensive treatment. This is where pet insurance comes in. Most pet parents opt for accident and illness pet insurance plans as they cover both injuries and most illnesses, such as hip dysplasia or eye diseases. Pet wellness plans can be added to your insurance coverage to help you pay for preventive veterinary care, like your regular vet exams, x-rays , dental cleanings , vaccinations, and more. Like humans, dogs are living longer, which creates an even bigger need for excellent veterinary care so that our dogs can live their happiest and healthiest lives. Pet insurance helps alleviate the financial strain that's often caused by vet visit costs. If your Labradoodle puppy gets sick or hurt, you and your veterinarian can work together to provide your pup with the best treatment plan - without worrying about how much it might cost. Key Takeaways Adult Labradoodles weigh pounds on average. The parent Poodle breed has toy and standard size variations that impact the size of the offspring, along with other genetic factors. Most Labradoodles grow until months of age. The breed is known for several congenital health disorders, and is especially prone to hip dysplasia. Pet insurance can protect your puppy and provide a financial safety net for vet costs throughout their life. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Final Thoughts What Is a Labradoodle? They are a friendly and outgoing breed that makes wonderful pets for individuals and families. The original goal behind breeding Labradoodles was to produce an even-tempered and hypoallergenic dog. While Labradoodles are increasing in popularity, they are still not recognized by the American Kennel Club or other major kennel clubs. The American Kennel Club only registers purebred dogs. Registration requires that both parents of a puppy must be registered as the same breed. Labradoodles may have two purebred parents, but they are different breeds. Since the first crossbreeding, there are now three sizes of Labradoodles. A Labradoodle comfortably sitting on the road. Sizes of Labradoodles Many dog breeds have size variations available. Labradoodles can be Miniature, Medium, or Standard. These three stylish Labradoodles help to demonstrate the curly coat type. They still have furnishings and could be trimmed to Teddy bear like Wavy coat but notice the loose Poodle curls on the chest of the middle dog. Extremely low shedding. A Moyen is a medium-size Poodle that does not qualify for purebred competitions because of its mid-range size. Smaller Moyen will produce a Miniature Labradoodle. Miniature Poodles are not much smaller than Moyen, topping out at 25 lbs. The Mini doodle is comparable to the Moyen Poodle in size and weight. Moyen is another word for Medium. Both large dogs produce large offspring. Within the standard category, you will see some variation between males and females. Males will generally grow taller and weigh more than females. But, you can estimate when your Labradoodle will stop growing. You can tell that your dog is almost done growing because he is near the top of the weight spectrum for Miniature Labradoodles. If you bring a Medium Labradoodle into your family, you should not expect to have a 70 lb guard dog. Miniature and Medium LDs with Lab dominant genetics will tend to be larger. Labradoodles are highly-active dogs that need lots of exercise. Regular playing, running, and walking are necessary for a healthy Labradoodle. Feed your Labradoodle high-quality dog food to help maintain a healthy weight. If you know your Standard Labradoodle should be about 90 lbs maximum, a Medium should not be more than 45 lbs, and a Miniature tops out at 30 lbs, you can tell if you are overfeeding your dog. Overfeeding and a sedentary lifestyle can lead to obesity and related health problems. Breed Facts The size and weight of your adult dog are important information to have before choosing a breed. There are a few other facts about Labradoodles that you should know whether you bring home a Standard, Medium, or Miniature. Activity Level Labradoodles are a highly active breed. A bored Labradoodle will seek stimulation by being destructive or hyperactive. Ideally, you will provide at least 60 minutes of exercise for your Labradoodle every day. Walk, run, fetch, or go to a dog park. They can live up to 16 years. Proper diet and exercise contribute to a long, healthy lifespan for your dog. An Apricot Labradoodle puppy happily laying in the dog park Allergy Affects Most Labradoodles are hypoallergenic, but not all. The original Labradoodle crossbreeders wanted to create a hypoallergenic dog that is also outgoing and friendly. The hypoallergenic Poodle combined with the happy-go-lucky Labrador Retriever achieves that goal. As breeders have produced more variations within the Labradoodle category, some traits have shifted. Not all Labradoodles are hypoallergenic. If this feature is a top priority for you, look for an LD with wavy or curly hair. Doodles with straight hair are not hypoallergenic. Happy Oodle friends Max the happy Mini Labradoodle in the middle Considerations When Choosing a Labradoodle Adding a canine to your family is one of the most enriching experiences we can have as humans. They add joy and love to our lives as few other pets can. Labradoodles are especially friendly and affectionate. Bringing an LD home means that you have time and energy to make sure it gets enough exercise to be healthy and happy. Ask yourself if you can commit about an hour each day to exercise and play with your dog. Think about the size of your home. A large, active dog in a small space is not fun for anyone. Consider whether your space is fitting for a Miniature Labradoodle that will weigh lbs, a Medium Doodle that will weigh up to 45 lbs, or a Standard Labradoodle that could tip the scale up to 90 lbs. A happy woman holding her lovely golden Labradoodle in her arms. Final Thoughts Labradoodles make excellent pets for individuals and families. They are congenial and active dogs who love to run, play, and make new friends. They get their sweet personalities from their Labrador Retriever parent. The dominant genes at breeding determine the adult weight of your Labradoodle. Miniature and Medium Labradoodles who get their size from their Labrador parent will be on the larger end of the weight estimates. You can estimate when your Labradoodle will stop growing by doubling its puppy weight at about six months old. Regardless of which size Labradoodle you bring into your family, it will be done growing by its second birthday. At that point, you want to feed and exercise your dog to maintain a healthy weight. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Labradoodle Life Events There are certain things that can typically only be accomplished by a Labradoodle as they age and grow. However, once they grow to just a few months old, they will have little difficulty accomplishing this task. Growth matches the natural progression of age. They have things such as social, mental, and physical growth to consider and all those points follow the natural flow of aging. For Labradoodles, and basically any other dog breed, some good training can greatly help with their overall growth. When a Labradoodle is 8 weeks old, it can usually begin with some basic training and socializing. When they get 2 months old, their cognitive growth has reached a point where their natural instincts will start to manifest themselves. According to several sources, hunting specific training should begin when your Doodle is between 6 — 12 months depending on how your dog responds to the exercises but also your own personal preference. If your Labradoodle is eager to learn and well socialized in most settings you can think of, you can start to train them for hunting. Good habits can be hard to learn, but through consistency, they are a lot easier to maintain. Labradoodles are sturdy, high-energy dogs and they require a lot of exercises. A good way to be able to have fun, exercise, and expel your Labradoodles energy is through running and bike rides. It is simply a small reminder to say that between months old, you should primarily have your Labradoodle run around and play in smoother and softer environments: dirt, forests, grass, and so on. When they are fully developed, Labradoodles are much better able to handle the effects of exercising and playing on hard surfaces. Know your Labradoodle and keep them safe. These things can include things such as hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and eye problems. One thing that you can do to make sure your dog grows as healthy as possible is by only giving them the best quality of food and supplements. Generally speaking, should a Labradoodle have around cups of dry food every day. Labradoodles are very agile and intelligent dogs. They require quite a large amount of physical and mental stimulation as well as the best possible food as fuel to support those things. Feeding your Labradoodle great food in correct servings will go a long way in helping them grow at the rate at which they are supposed to. They supply some of the best foods possible, all tailormade to your special dog. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. December 2, Fact Checked The Labradoodle is a relatively new breed in the history of domesticated dogs, having only made its debut in the s, and thus far without AKC acknowledgement. Initially developed in Australia by combining the strength, loyalty, and intelligence of a Labrador Retriever with the low-shed coat of a Standard Poodle, this breed was originally intended to produce an allergy-friendly guide dog. Today, these dogs have moved well beyond their initial plan to become beloved household pets throughout the world. For first-time Labradoodle owners, research almost always includes questions on size. So what should a potential Labradoodle parent expect of a labrador full grown? Crossbreeding Surprises The practice of dog breeding as a whole has the same process, regardless of breed: selecting a parental pair with the highest level of positive characteristics and the lowest level of undesirable ones. While labs as a whole are considered medium-sized dogs, the poodle has more available size variance built into its breeding bloodlines. Labradoodles are bred according to three size guidelines per the Australian Labradoodle Association: Miniature Labradoodles have a height between 14 and 17 inches. Medium Labradoodles have a height between 22 and 17 inches. Standard Labradoodles have a height of at least 22 inches. Because the difference in height between two sizes is relatively minor e. On average, Labradoodles weigh around 50 to 65 pounds and do have consistent exercise and interaction needs. They do best with a yard they can run and play in, as well as pet parents that can give them simulation with love, treats, and training on a regular basis. Since labradoodles are crosses between two different breeds they tend to be less prone to breed specific health problems. However, they are not immune to developing health issues. Feeding your favorite CBD dog treats to your labradoodle can help manage their pet pains that come along with getting older. When Do Labradoodles Stop Growing? Generally speaking, most Labradoodles stop growing at around 12 to 18 months. While they may reach their full height, they still tend to fill out and continue to gain weight past this age. Genetics are the sole determining factor of how large a Labradoodle puppy will get. Depending on his parents and the particular mix of genes he inherits, he may be miniature, medium, or standard. He will generally be tall enough to enjoy head pats with only a minor stoop, if any, required of his parent. While Labradoodles are widely touted and sold as hypoallergenic dogs, their cross-bred origins mean that this property can vary from dog to dog. Most allergies are triggered not by fur or hair from a dog, but from canine skin dander that is sloughed off along with the hair follicle itself. Curly-coated Labradoodles will also need brushing to remove dirt, debris, and mats from their coat, or else it may become painfully tangled. While he may be a bit larger than a lapdog on average, the Labradoodle is a fantastic size for home and family life. He will fit into standard collars, leashes, and dog beds without a problem, although he will likely require a large-sized dog door, if one is being used. Accessed October 16, .It takes traits from both breeds, and new puppy owners will quickly see this combination was chosen intentionally. The Labrador retriever is an intelligent, loyal breed with an excellent temperament for nearly any family or living situation. Unfortunately, these dogs also shed a lot, which can be a hassle. It also makes a Labrador a poor choice for public social situations, such as outdoor dining at dog-friendly patios. Instead, the coat traps dirt, allergens, loose hair and other debris inside it. This means less shedding but also means daily brushing is required. The poodle is also an intelligent breed that makes a perfect addition to most homes since it was bred to be a companion animal. Any puppy is a lifelong commitment. Understanding what to expect at every life stage will help you prepare to give your cute little puppy a long, prosperous, happy life. A normal-sized labradoodle will live an average of 12 to 14 years. Smaller labradoodles resulting from a miniature or toy poodle crossbreed will generally live a little longer. However, you must remember that this lifespan is only an average. There are plenty of labradoodles who live into their late teens. A healthy diet, regular exercise and periodic vet visits are crucial to your labradoodle puppy living a long, healthy life. These main life stages include puppyhood, adolescence, adulthood, middle-aged and senior. Each life stage is discussed in more detail below. Puppyhood If you adopt a labradoodle puppy, this will be the first stage you get to witness. A labradoodle puppy will remain in this life stage from birth until five or six months. Birth to 7 Weeks From birth until about seven weeks of age, labradoodle puppies stay close to their mother. They spend all their time eating, sleeping, growing and cuddling with their littermates. As they get closer to seven weeks of age, they may begin exploring their world a little. Around seven weeks of age, a labradoodle puppy will start becoming more interested in people. This is also when it begins forming bonds with you and other humans in the home or family. These adorable puppies will become more playful and curious at about eight weeks old. Instead, you want to create only positive experiences during this time to ensure it grows into a secure young adult dog. This is the perfect time to start positive training techniques. Teaching your labradoodle puppy about action and reward now will benefit its lifelong training. During this stage of puppy development, socialization is crucial. Now is the perfect time to take it to new places, introduce it to new people and provide it with new experiences. The most important part of this stage of puppy development is that your pup becomes a free and independent thinker. With its curiosity at an all-time high, this is the perfect time to bring your new companion everywhere. Socialization and bonding are other vital aspects of this stage of puppy development. Pet owners will find their puppy wants to be with them all the time and may become mildly anxious when separated from them. Most of its time will be spent eating, sleeping or getting into trouble. Your growing canine should have lost its baby teeth, have all its adult teeth and be out of the biting stage it may have had during puppyhood. Thanks to the Labrador genes, your labradoodle will always love to chew. You can stop destructive chewing behaviors by providing a chew toy or two or 20 to keep it occupied. It may become territorial, but regular socialization can help ease these issues. Your labradoodle will also begin showing quite a bit of strength, so continuing its training during this time is crucial. Acting out, wandering and even behaving aggressively are all normal during this time. Adulthood For a labradoodle, adulthood starts somewhere between two or three years of age and lasts until around its seventh birthday. During adulthood, labradoodles are at their prime. Their adult coat will grow in, which may be thicker or denser than their puppy coat. This breed is very intelligent and easy to train, so if you want to keep teaching it new tricks, you can. Weight Management Your labradoodle will reach its adult size between two and three years old. They can tell you if your dog is a normal size or needs diet and exercise. Middle-Aged Your doodle puppy will turn middle-aged around seven years old. This life stage is relatively brief and only lasts until the dog turns nine or .During middle age, most dogs are still active and overall healthy. It may exercise less and sleep a little more as it transitions between adulthood and its golden years. A middle-aged dog may begin to develop some health problems, especially as it gets closer to its senior years. The primary issues of concern are obesity, joints and teeth. The teeth and joints will become especially vulnerable during this stage, so you must take your dog for regular teeth cleaning and wellness visits. In addition, your vet may recommend supplements to protect the joints. Extra weight will also place unnecessary additional stress on the joints and heart of your dog. Senior Your dog will officially be considered a senior from around nine to 10 years of age until the end of its life. During their golden years, your labradoodle will require extra care and attention. Health problems are most likely to occur during these years, and your vet may suggest two annual well visits instead of only one. After 10 years of age, your dog will likely encounter issues staying warm. You might consider a heating blanket in their bed, keeping the house slightly warmer during winter or providing extra blankets to snuggle under. Your dog may also have problems with its eyesight. The most common issue for senior labradoodles is their joints, which tend to ache as they get older. In addition, they may have mobility problems caused by sore and stiff joints. For example, consider a ramp to help it get into the car or up your porch steps. Developing one or more health problems could mean a shorter lifespan for your labradoodle. A few of the most common health problems affecting labradoodle puppies or adults include: Allergies usually to food Ear infections which can lead to hearing loss after repeat infections Epilepsy. As much as we want them to stay little forever, Labradoodle puppy growth happens. And it is very fast. In fact, puppies grow much faster than human babies do. An 8 week old Labradoodle will already weigh between 7 and 12 pounds! And by her first birthday she may weigh upwards of 80 pounds. How Big Do Labradoodles Grow? When fully grown, these dogs stand between 21 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder, and weigh from 55 to 90 pounds. Miniature Labradoodles are considerably smaller, standing somewhere between 10 to 18 inches tall and weighing from 15 to 25 pounds. These dogs are the result of mating a Lab with a miniature Poodle or Toy Poodle. Sometimes when Labradoodles reach a size which is in between these two ranges, they are described as medium Labradoodles. Males tend to be larger than females in any Labradoodle type. Predicting Labradoodle Puppy Growth Many people want to know how big their puppy will be when fully grown. Every dog is an individual. Mixed breed dogs like Labradoodles can even differ in size significantly within a single litter. The amount of variation in size between siblings depends a lot upon the difference in size between their parents. Labradoodle Parent Breeds Whenever two different breeds mate, their puppies may grow up looking a lot like one parent, or some combination of both. This is why there is such variance within designer dog breeds. In the case of the Labradoodle, some puppies can be more like the Labrador Retriever while others are more like the Poodle. The Labrador generally weighs between 50 and 80 pounds and stands from 22 to 25 inches tall. They typically carry their size on a well-built, muscular frame. Standard Poodles reach 17 to 24 inches tall and 40 to 70 pounds. Miniature Poodles stand 10 to 15 inches tall and weigh 10 to 15 pounds. In profile, the ideal Poodle has longer legs relative to their body than the ideal Labrador, so they give the impression of being leaner and more lithe. They will end up broadly the same size as both of their parents. For example, Labradoodles might look relatively stocky, like a Lab, or more tall and slim, like a Poodle. These methods are simply for reference and in no way should replace regular vet weigh-ins and check-ups. The Two Month Rule At two months, whatever he weighs will be roughly one quarter of his adult weight. The Four Month Rule At four months take how much he weighs, double it and add 10 pounds. When do Labradoodles Stop Growing? Most breeds tend to do the majority of their growing during their first 6 months of life. Growth slows down dramatically at around the time dogs reach sexual maturity, and female dogs start their seasons. Large and small dog breeds have considerably different growth patterns. In fact, bigger dogs can take twice as long to reach full size as small dogs. By contrast, miniature Labradoodles are generally fully grown at 11 to 13 months old. Spaying and neutering is an effective way to prevent unwanted pregnancies, and prevent some health problems. In other words, without testosterone male dogs grow taller than normal. Prolonging the growth period like this is not a good thing and can lead to joint problems such as cruciate ligament ruptures. Many vets believe this is of particular concern for Labradoodles, because they are already at increased risk of joint diseases such as hip dysplasia. Small-breed dogs can be spayed or neutered at about 6 months of age. When spaying a large breed female, there are a number of factors, such as lifestyle and risk of disease, to consider. There is a healthy amount of evidence now that spaying and neutering might not be the best idea for many dogs. And that they are more prone to some illnesses when they have these hormones taken from them. Proper nutrition is needed for normal health and Labradoodle puppy growth. Fuel for growth For example, puppies of all breeds need more calories every day relative to their size than adult dogs. However, overly rapid growth caused by too much fat relative to protein in their diet can cause number of growth disorders , several of which are incurable. This is particularly a problem for large and giant dog breeds. Eating too much as a puppy also predisposes dogs to obesity in later life. Labrador Retrievers in particular are known for being insatiable when it comes to food. Left unchecked as a puppy or adult, this can result in an increased risk of diabetes and heart disease further down the line. Vitamins and minerals Puppies also need precise amounts of vitamin D, calcium and phosphorous in their diet, to support healthy bone development. These include demineralization of the bones and skeletal deformities as they grow. This is why malnutrition from eating the wrong type of food is just as dangerous as eating the wrong amount of food. He might have a parasitic infection which is preventing him from benefiting from all the nutrition in his diet. Or, he might simply be small but healthy! Never try to make him grow faster by feeding him more. Overfeeding can cause digestive problems and create a fat puppy. You want to make sure that his mental and social skills are developing properly as well. If not well socialized in this time, they can become fearful of anything unfamiliar. Even at the tender age of 8 weeks, basic training and socializing can start. Use positive training methods with food as incentive. But we do know that the best indicator of how big a puppy will get is to look at the parents. Watching a puppy grow up is an amazing experience. Enjoy it while it lasts. Related Articles. A Mini Labradoodle is fully grown between 11 and 13 months of age. Just before they are 11 months old, Mini Labradoodles will reach their full height and for the remaining months of growth they will fill out and continue gaining weight. Between 3. An adult sized dog raincoat to keep them dry during wet weather An adult sized dog life jacket to help with swimming in lakes and oceans An adult sized dog jacket for cold winter weather A dog cooling vest if you live in a hot climate High quality no-pull dog harness to reduce stress on their neck while walking And other similar products Mini Labradoodle via iamlolalabradoodle How Big Is A Mini Labradoodle Full Grown? A full grown Mini Labradoodle is 14 to 16 inches .They are one of the smallest Labradoodle sizes however some breeders create an even smaller Labradoodle called the Toy Labradoodle. Mini Labradoodle Height 14 to 16 inches .Medium Labradoodles are 16 to 20 inches .Standard Labradoodles are 20 to 26 inches .They are one of the lightest Labradoodle sizes. If you find out the weight of the parents of your Mini Labradoodle you will get a good idea of how much your puppy will weigh as an adult. As a mixed breed, there can be a lot of variation in Mini Labradoodle weight so your dog may be slightly heavier or lighter than these ranges. There are no official weight ranges for Mini Labradoodle as they are a cross-breed. The age a Labradoodle is full grown depends on their size. Mini Labradoodle finish growing first between 11 and 13 months, Medium Labradoodles stop growing between 12 and 15 months while Standard Labradoodles stop growing between 12 and 18 months. Mini Labradoodles are fully grown between 11 and 13 months of age. Medium Labradoodles are fully grown between 12 and 15 months of age. Standard Labradoodles are fully grown between 12 and 18 months of age. These ranges are only guides. There can be a lot of variability for growth rates of Labradoodles as they are a mixed breed dog. One of the best ways to get an idea of when your Labradoodle will finish growing is by asking your breeder what age their parents stopped growing. An adult sized dog raincoat to keep them dry during wet weather An adult sized dog life jacket to help with swimming in lakes and oceans An adult sized dog jacket for cold winter weather A dog cooling vest if you live in a hot climate High quality no-pull dog harness to reduce stress on their neck while walking And other similar products Labradoodle via tobymackthebigdood How Big Is A Labradoodle Full Grown? How big a Labradoodle is fully grown depends on whether they are a Mini, Medium or Standard Labradoodle. Mini Labradoodles are 14 to 16 inches .Mini Labradoodles are the smallest, Medium Labradoodles are the middle size and Standard Labradoodles are the largest. Mini Labradoodle Size Mini Labradoodles get to a height of 14 to 16 inches .They are one of the smallest Labradoodle sizes however some breeders create an even small Labradoodle called the Toy Labradoodle. Medium Labradoodle Size Medium Labradoodles get to a height of 16 to 20 inches .Medium Labradoodles are slightly smaller than Standard Labradoodles. Standard Labradoodle Size Standard Labradoodles get to a height of 20 to 26 inches .They are the largest and most common Labradoodle size. Mini Labradoodles weigh between 15 and 25 pounds 6. Medium Labradoodles weigh between 25 and 50 pounds
german shepherd puppy names and meanings - Known Diseases Epilepsy Definition: Dog has epilepsy if, for example, at least two epileptic seizures occur more than 24 hours apart. Kidney disease Symptoms of kidney disease in dogs: increased urination polyuria increased water intake. Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the mouth. Loss of appetite Wobbler syndrome In veterinary medicine, this is the name given to a complex of symptoms caused by nerve damage in the area of the spinal cord or spinal cord nerves in the area of the cervical spine. Cardiomyopathy In large breeds of dogs, dilated cardiomyopathy DCM is by far the most common cardiomyopathy. This results in the deficient or absent synthesis of a certain protein which is an important component of the blood-brain barrier, leading to hypersensitivity to some drugs. Eye diseases Often occur with allergies and intolerances. Metabolic diseases cystinuria Cystinuria is a hereditary metabolic disease. Affected dogs lack a transport protein for certain amino acids protein building blocks. In the kidney, the task of this transport protein is a return transport of amino acids from the urine into the bloodstream. FAQ What is a boxollie? A Boxer-Collie mix is a cross between two purebred dogs, the Boxer and the Collie. This cross is also known as the Border Collie Boxer Mix. How big does a Boxer-Collie mix grow? An adult Boxer-Collie mix can weigh between kg and have a shoulder height of cm? What is the life expectancy of a Boxer-Collie mix? The average life expectancy of a Boxer-Collie mix is 10 to 12 years. What are the exercise needs of a Boxer-Collie mix? A Boxer-Collie mix is an active breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. A long walk or a lively play in the garden is enough. What are the grooming needs of a Boxer-Collie mix? A Boxer-Collie mix has medium length fur that sheds moderately throughout the year. Brushing several times a week will help control shedding and keep the coat healthy and beautiful. Author Sissi Author Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Since then she struts daily her steps with Loki through the world. The Beagdor Labrador-Beagle mix is a therapy dog for children and also accompanies her to schools. Secretly she fancies a French Bulldog as a second dog. Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Useful Articles. Active individuals, families History of Boxer Border Collie Mix There is not a lot of evidence that accurately explains where the Boxollie breed originates from. It is speculated that this crossbreed was designed to eliminate the likelihood of health issues that were commonly present in its parent breeds. Border Collie: Brief History Border Collies are acknowledged to be among the most capable and diligent breeds. Their intelligence, and enthusiasm to fulfill your wishes will make you love them even more. This specific type of dog originated in Scotland. Eventually, it became popular along the English-Scottish border. These canines were often employed to guard and herd flocks of sheep. Their capability in this job was outstanding as they were robust, intelligent and had a strong sense of dedication. C when their predecessors, the Assyrian war dogs, existed. But the modern-day Boxer was developed in Germany during the latter part of the 19th century. Through the years, Boxers have shown amazing capabilities when it comes to a variety of tasks, such as being used as a herding dog, a guard dog, an alarm dog, and even as a guide dog. The Boxollie takes after the Boxer in terms of its overall look. Generally, it has a dense coat that can be either short or medium-length, and it is water-resistant. Its size will depend on which dominant genes it has obtained and can range from medium to large. This breed of dog is exceptionally athletic and intelligent and has an air of cleverness in its bearing. It has a muscular figure that is symmetrically proportionate, and its tail is usually left natural. It has an estimated height of 18 to 22 inches, and a weight of 30 to 45 pounds. This type of canine is of medium size and generally has a solid build. The Boxer on the other hand is a medium-sized breed with a muscular build, measuring between 21 to 25 inches tall, and weighing between 55 and 75 pounds. Based from this information, a Boxollie will typically have a size of medium to big build. This can be accompanied, with a height of around 18 to 25 inches and a weight between 45 and 80 pounds. These may include white, black, black and white, and even gold. If they are properly trained, they can live peacefully with other pets and children in the same household. They are incredibly intelligent. This makes training relatively easily. Intelligence Likewise its Border Collie parent, the Boxollie is an intelligent breed too. They easily understand new commands and even memorize it after 15 to 25 repetitions. This makes a Boxollie as one of the smartest dogs you could have. Energy of Border Collie And Boxer Mix Boxollie canines are a great fit for households that have older kids because of their tendencies to herd and their high energy. These canines have a friendly and gentle nature and rarely display signs of aggressiveness. They are great with children, although they can be a bit too energetic for younger ones and may accidentally knock them over. Thus, constant supervision is still a must from parents. Other Animals The Border Collie Boxer Mix is usually not an aggressive breed and typically gets along well with cats and other animals. Because Boxollies are not originally intended for hunting and generally does not possess a strong drive to chase prey. The heritage of a Border Collie may cause them to display some hunting traits, meaning Boxollies that are not socialized might view smaller pets as animals to herd. This can be avoided by teaching and familiarizing them with socializing from the very start. Strangers These animals take great pleasure in being around their owners and are incredibly steadfast companions. They also have strong sense of protection for their family and abode when it comes to outsiders. Do They Bark A Lot? It is not common for Boxers to bark a lot; if they do, then it is likely due to a legitimate reason. Even though some are not very vocal, they usually have a type of low grumbling sound that is just their way of communicating. Border Collies are a breed that have a tendency to make a lot of noise with their barking. They can be quickly roused by visual stimuli, which is why they bark a lot when they see something that moves rapidly, such as bicycles or skateboards. This particular trait of their parents can be transferred to a Boxollie. Dogs barking can be their way of communication. These particular dogs have a tendency to be extremely devoted to their families and children, making them ideal companions. In addition, they usually get along with other animals well. They can be independent from time to time when the house is loud or there are a lot of people around. Socializing them from a young age can help prevent any unwanted behaviors from forming. They react positively to encouragement and reward, just like all canines. They are usually quite loving and enjoy spending quality time with their owners. It is essential to initiate training of your dog immediately to obey commands such as sit, stay, come, go to their kennel, and to eliminate outdoors. Surprisingly, it is something that you can do yourself even if you are a novice. Initiate a dog obedience routine — find out how you can establish basic foundation before beginning the training. Use games for training — training must be fun for the two of you. Thus, make an effort to integrate games into your training. Learn the value of positive reinforcement — there are countless methods of dog training. But experienced dog trainers would agree that positive reinforcement is the best approach. Compared to other breeds, its shedding is moderate. It is recommended to brush their coat daily using rubber curry brush if the fur is short. If the coat is of medium length, then use a firm bristle brush and a comb. These two work perfectly in removing tangled fur. This helps in maintaining appearance too. If the legs of the dog are feathered, it is best to get them trimmed by a professional groomer. This type of animal is not known for drooling or having any offensive smells. However, their ears, nails, and teeth should still receive proper care. The ears should be examined every week for dirt and wax accumulation. Brushing their teeth daily is recommended and their nails should be trimmed every other week. Unless, they grind down on their own, in which case trimming them monthly should be sufficient. Feeding them a balanced diet, exercising them, and getting them groomed regularly along with regular vet check-ups are all necessary for them to be in optimal condition. All these things are how you can ensure that your Border Collie Boxer mix is healthy and far from any illness. Particularly, the ones that are high in calories and protein. On the safe side, add chondroitin and glucosamine supplements. These are perfect for their joint health which serves as great support for their activeness. However, this figure could be more or less, depending on how you would treat your dog. Of course, attending to their needs and giving their daily requirements add to their vitality. Do the opposite and your dog may not be able to meet their life expectancy. Health Issues Sadly, dogs are not immune to genetic health problems. This includes the Boxer Collie. In fact, these breeds are typically affected by health issues common to its parents. Some of these are elbow and hip dysplasia, eye disorders, hypothyroidism, as well as cardiovascular disease. Fortunately, you can help your dog to avoid from any suffering by taking them to your vet on regular intervals. A pet groomer has the equipment and know-how that you probably lack. Short-haired breeds rarely need a professional groomer as often as long-haired breeds, but it is a great chance to have your dog checked out thoroughly. They can provide you with advice on how to groom your pup in your own home. Professional groomers can provide information on which products work best, how to keep your pooch relaxed, and which tools are ideal for their kind of fur. Does It Shed A Lot? In comparison with other types of canines, Boxers have a tendency to shed moderately. You will be able to observe the amount of shedding based on the season. To help their fur come off quickly, you can brush them more often. Getting them spayed or neutered will eliminate any distinctions and prevent potential pregnancies, as well as avoid males from straying. When picking either a male or a female pup, you may want to take into account other pets that you already have. Even amongst the congenial and easy-going Boxollie breed, two animals of the same gender might become competitive with one another. Nevertheless, with training and proper socialization, this should not be a major problem. Puppies of Border Collie And Boxer Mix A lot of new dog owners would have thought that the price of buying a new puppy is the only thing that they would have to spend their money on. Truth is, there are underlying costs the moment you brought a new puppy to your home. For instance, you would have to buy them toys, dog accessories like collars and leashes, doing frequent visit to the vet, sourcing quality foods and treats, bringing to a professional groomer to keep them in immaculate shape and so forth. If you are not ready for these expenses, then you may want to reserve the idea of getting a Border Collie Boxer mix for the meantime. Do not work with someone who breeds multiple types of dogs. Someone who claim to be specializing in extraordinary colors, sizes, etc. Take out of your selection any breeders who only allows for cash or credit cards. Also, if they are interviewing interested fur parents regarding their capability to care and raise the dog. On the other hand, if you are someone who has an active lifestyle and loves to have a companion that you can take with your outdoor trips, the Boxollie can make the most of your trip. These dogs are highly energetic and smart. They require time from their owner to give them their daily needs from exercising them, training and socialization. These are all essential elements in ensuring that you can raise a well-mannered dog. Lawrence Lawrence is a genuine dog enthusiast. His personal favorite is the Border Collie. He has vast knowledge about these dogs. Throughout his lifetime, he spent raising and training countless dogs. Eventually, he has come to a unique and deeper understanding of human-dog connection that puts him in a position where he is today. Lifespan Sociability While hybrid breeds can inherit various traits from their parent breeds, one thing you can be sure of when bringing home a Border Collie Boxer Mix is energy, a ton of it. Both the Boxer and Border Collie are infamous for their almost endless energy reserves, and your Boxollie is unlikely to be much different. This means you need to prepare for daily walks and exercise sessions of at least a couple of hours, and this will take a large chunk of time, commitment, and dedication. They are ideally suited to a home with a large fenced yard where they have a large amount of space to run and play. These dogs are not suited for apartments or small homes without large yards unless they can be taken for vigorous exercise for several hours a day, and even then, they will present a challenge. They are incredibly intelligent. Border Collies are widely agreed upon to be the most intelligent dog on the planet, capable of learning hundreds of unique words and commands. Chaser, a Border Collie belonging to classical musician John Pilley, knows upward of 1, words and can remember the names of thousands of different objects, even years after learning them. Boxers were used in both World Wars. During the First World War, Boxers were one of seven breeds chosen to aid German soldiers as messengers and to carry heavy packs. Boxers are late bloomers. Boxers retain their puppyhood for quite some time, and this can cause difficulty in training them. They only fully mature at around 3 or 4 years old, making them one of the breeds with the longest puppyhood. These dogs need to be kept busy; otherwise, they are prone to a host of misbehavior, including excessive barking, chewing, and attempting to herd whatever they can, including your children! They are quick learners and will excel in training and agility sports, as well as be affectionate and gentle with children. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are kind and gentle dogs that are rarely aggressive and are great with children. While they are generally well-behaved pooches, they may be a bit boisterous for younger children and can easily accidentally knock them over. They are incredibly loyal and make great guard dogs too. That being said, the Border Collie heritage may result in some herding characteristics, and any small pets may be seen as animals to be rounded up. Of course, with early socialization and proper training, this can be avoided. However, there are details on the history of the parent breeds. Border Collie dogs were sheep-herding dogs on the landscape of the Anglo-Scottish border area. Siberian Husky dogs were traveling and hunting companions of the Chukchi people in Siberia. The Border Collie Husky Mix pups have a lifespan of 12 to 20 years. They may be at risk for bone disorders, such as chronic myelopathy, osteoarthritis, and intervertebral disc disorder. Both of the parent breeds often have a medium-length coat. They can also have short and smooth coats that are weather-resistant. You can expect the Border Collie crossed with Husky puppies will have this kind of coat as well. Playful and active, the Husky Border mixed with Collie puppies require an above-average amount of physical activity. They may also have territorial characteristics, and they become defensive and aggressive. Due to the combination of its parent breeds, this mixed breed may have serious health problems such as achondroplasia, a structural health condition, and intervertebral disc disease. Corgi mixed with Border Collie puppies have coats that are often thick, and wavy or long. It may shed more generously than other breeds. You need to employ a regular grooming regimen for this pup. Regarding exercise, Poodle mixed with Border Collie puppies need at least 40 minutes of physical activity per day. You may choose to let them walk, swim, or chase a ball. It is better to conduct these activities outside. If the puppy is less than 10 months old, you should avoid your pup from doing excessive exercise. You may contact breed-specific shelters or professional breeders that can assist you in adopting this mixed breed. You will find Border Collie Poodle Mix puppy to be very intelligent and easy to train. Also, they can be all-around companions due to their people-oriented and loyal traits. However, there are pertinent details on the history of its parent breeds. German Shepherd, a herding breed, came from Europe to withstand damp and cold surroundings. On the other hand, the other herding breed Border Collie was prominent in Scotland where they protect livestock. AKC officially recognized the breed in .Border Collie German Shepherds are heavy shedders, particularly during spring. Nutrition is a key factor to promote optimal growth. The amount of food will depend on the size, level of activity, and age of the dog. For young Border Collie mixed with German Shepherd puppies, you need to give high-quality feeds packed with nutrients and vitamins. They have a prominent herding instinct and prey drive, attributable to both parent breeds. You should be extremely cautious when they play with small children and other animals. Collie Beaglers are eager to please the owner and easy to train. They are cooperative, and they will follow your commands accordingly. Beagle Border Collie Mix puppies will not acquire many structural disabilities, unlike other breeds. You should watch out for manifestations of hip dysplasia and epilepsy. If you get a puppy from a breeder, you should ask for the health clearance of the parent dogs. Exercise is crucial for the puppy for two reasons. First, it keeps the muscle and bones healthy. Second, it helps the pup adopt to the new environment. When the Border Collie mixed with Beagle puppy arrives at home for the first time, it is advisable to start with an exercise routine immediately. The amount of food appropriate for the pup will depend primarily on its weight and the season. Border Collie Labrador Mix puppies need more food during the winter season than the summer. For puppies that are less than six months old, you should feed them four times a day. When they are more than six months, they can eat for only two times per day. Concerning the grooming of Labrador and Border Collie mix puppies, they tend to keep themselves in check. You need less effort and time as you will brush their coat once or twice a week only. You should do thorough research on the available and qualified breeders near you. Also, you can search for this pup in rescue shelters. Their history is unknown, but I can share details on its parent breeds. Chihuahua dogs are descendants of the Techichi breed. They were believed to be the guides of the dead souls. Meanwhile, Border Collie dogs came from the borderland between Scotland and England. They were herding dogs with agility and intellect. Chihuahua mixed with Border Collie puppies can also have a herding instinct and aggressiveness. Chihuahua Border Collie Mix dogs need an intense exercise regimen. You should engage them in at least two long walks. You can expect the offspring to have a long coat as well. They are most probably heavy shedders too. To keep the skin moisturized, you need to give them regular baths. Border Collie Chow Chow Mix dogs can be prone to dysplasia. I recommend adding fish oil and chondroitin supplements in their food. You can adjust the amount of food by considering their level of activity and weight. Chow Chow mixed with Border Collie puppies have high energy in them. They can take on extremely long hikes and walks. They have a quiet disposition, and they are often calm. With early socialization, Border Collie mixed with Australian Shepherd pups are lovable and family-friendly. Be careful in leaving your pet for a long time because it can have separation anxiety. The coat of Aussie Collie becomes ruffled easily. Thus, you need to brush it at least four times per week. You can also avoid ear infection by checking and cleaning the ears regularly. To acquire a Border Collie Australian Shepherd Mix puppy for your home and family, a trustworthy breeder or a rescue shelter is what you need. However, I can tell you about the historical data of its parent breeds. The Dachshund dogs were from Germany. The medium-sized kind of this breed kept the burrow-dwelling animals away from the field. For Border Collies, they were herders, excellent for controlling the flock. Dachshund mixed with Border Collie puppies are family-oriented and friendly to people. They can be companion dogs as they are active and amiable. Collie Dachers are eager to please. You should remember to keep fresh water accessible for the pup at all times. For its food, the amount will depend on the size, weight, age, and level of physical activity. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. From this information, you can anticipate the Border Collie mixed with Pug puppy will be a heavy shedder as well. A bath is necessary when the dog is noticeably dirty. You have to brush its coat regularly. If you can keep up with a high energy dog, Pug crossed with Border Collie puppies are suitable for you. These dogs will often go around the lot. You should make time to cater for their need for adequate physical activities. A mixed breed has a lower chance of getting serious health problems and complications. A reliable and qualified breeder will show the health clearance of the parent breeds. An appropriate exercise routine will comprise of a morning, afternoon, and night activities. Border Collie mixed with Cocker Spaniel puppies love attention, and they are amiable to children and families. Cocker Spaniel Border Collie Mix dogs can be an excellent watchdog. They can distinguish potentially harmful intruders from friendly strangers. To find a reputable breeder, you may ask referrals from a local veterinarian and breed club officers. They resort to eating things in front of them when you leave them on their own devices for a long time. For their diet, you can give them dry feeds with high protein content and necessary vitamins. American Bulldog mixed with Border Collie dogs are overall healthy and less prone to develop fatal diseases. It is still crucial to have regular check-ups with a trusty veterinarian, as they could acquire allergies at some point. The coat type of American Collie pups can be short to moderate and dense. They are minimal shedders. To keep the coat healthy and shiny, I advise that you brush the coat regularly. However, knowing the details about its parent breeds is helpful in predicting its characteristics. The Akita breed is believed to have hailed from the Akita province in northern Japan in the s. They were royal guards and hunters of large game like bears. On the other hand, Border Collie pups were bred to withstand and enjoy 20 miles of running and herding per day. Border Collie crossed with Akita puppies may have an innate aggressiveness, due to the hunting work of Akita. They have predictable high energy and will not be suitable for living in apartments. To adopt an Akita mixed with Border Collie puppy, you need to find trustworthy breeders in your area or breed-specific shelters. They are becoming popular in dog sports nowadays. For proper training, they need positive reinforcement and firm boundaries. Blue Heeler crossed with Border Collie puppies are friendly to children and other dogs with early and frequent socialization. Blue Collie pups are incredibly athletic. They enjoy sports like flyball and agility exercises. You should prevent this pup from getting bored because they may cause trouble. Be sure to engage the dog with enough physical and mental stimulation. The parent breed English Bulldog are descendants of ancient mastiffs hailing from Asia, and the English Bulldog were brought to England. English Bulldog mixed with Border Collie puppies have an independent streak. They manage well on their own when the house becomes too busy. Border Collie crossed with English Bulldog dogs have a yearning to be a member of a pack. They are affectionate and do not want to be left alone for an extended period. Border Collie crossed with English Bulldog puppies with a short coat type tend to shed heavily, as their parent breeds do. You should have a regular grooming regimen for them. The common ones you should know are skin allergies, eye defects, cancer, and heart problems. At all times, avoid overfeeding the dog. The Golden Retriever crossed with Border Collie puppies need vitamins and proper nutrition to ensure a healthier disposition. If you want to adopt or buy this mixed breed, be sure to contact reliable breeders or ask recommendations from your local veterinarian. Reliable sources of the Golden Collies will provide health clearance of the parent breeds. You can provide food-dispensing toys to avoid boredom and promote mental stimulation. Inadequate stimulation and exercise will lead to unruly behaviors. The Great Pyrenees crossed with Border Collie dogs are loyal and protective of their owners. They go along well with children and friendly strangers. Although the Border Collie mixed with Great Pyrenees dog is more fond of cold weather than hot weather, it can tolerate warm weather as well. Great Pyrecollie pups experience seasonal shedding. They require moderate to high levels of grooming maintenance. I advice brushing at least twice per week. You should also do regular ear and eye care for a lower chance of infection. Furthermore, they have an innate loyalty for defending the family, and they are affectionate to their owners and the friends of their owners. They can be reliable watchdogs, ready to call out people who are making suspicious acts. They are keen on observing their surroundings. With its short to medium-length and straight coat, Border Collie crossed with Bernese Mountain Dog puppies can have a moderate to heavy shedding. To keep the coat shiny and healthy, you need to use a medium-toothed comb and pin brush. Known as high-energy dogs, Bernese Collie pups need more exercise than other breeds. You can engage the pup with swimming, running, and fetching. These ancestors were engaged in a blood sport called bull baiting. The Bulldogs mated with Terriers, initiating the propagation of Pitbulls. With a lifespan of mid-teens, nutrition will play a crucial role in keeping the dog up and about. If you see signs on malnutrition, you should consult with a veterinarian. To ensure a healthy and properly-cared mixed breed, you need to find a reputable and qualified breeder who sells Pitbull mixed with Border Collie. You need to avoid a mix of a damaged Pitbull with a Border Collie. You can ask for health clearance of parent breeds. Border Collie Catahoula Mix dogs have heightened herding and hunting instincts. However, they are often good-natured and suitable companions. You need to engage them in early socialization to have better interactions with people and other dogs. The Catahoula mixed with Border Collie puppies have high energy and above-average intelligence. They need to have lots of physical and mental exercises. The Border Collie crossed with Catahoula are overall healthy. However, they may be at risk for deafness, dysplasia, and eye diseases. You should brush their coat regularly to assist in proper shedding, stimulate essential oil production, and keep it healthy. You should give a bath as needed. Long walks are necessary to use up all its energy. Collieshitzuer puppies are committed and loyal dog companions. They are affectionate and calm. Shih Tzu crossed with Border Collie dogs are keen on observing their surroundings, and they can detect potentially harmful strangers. The Doberman breed hailed from Germany. They excelled at guarding, military work, and police work. On the other hand, Border Collie dogs are believed to be descendants of the older British droving dogs mixed with Spaniels. They were companions of shepherds and controlled flocks well. Border Collie mixed with Doberman dogs typically consume 3 cups of dog food per day. You can adjust the amount, based on their weight and level of activity. To adopt a Collie Dobler, you can seek the help of recognized kennel clubs and veterinarians for breeder recommendations. They are known as gentle giants, as they are rarely aggressive. .The Newfoundland mixed with Border Collie dogs are fond of the outdoors and nature. It is favorable if you have an enclosed garden with adequate space to walk around. The Border Collie mixed with Newfoundland puppies need a moderate amount of physical exertion. They enjoy playing with a large ball. Health is not a major concern for the Newfoundland crossed with Border Collie dogs. However, you should be aware that their massive frame can cause an extra strain in their musculoskeletal system, especially during old age. Striking a perfect balance of nutrients from early on is essential. Start by learning the difference between the nutritional requirements of a puppy and a senior dog. The little ones need more lipids because of rapid growth. So, opting for any of the best puppy food brands is a wise choice as they provide the pooch with the much-needed readily available energy. On the other side are older pooches, whose needs are better met with formulas found in best senior dry dog food. Nutritional deficiencies are a bummer but are far from the worst possible scenario. As long as the pooch is in good health, they can recoup any micronutrient or the so-called superfood they lack. To help you navigate through the dog food market here are our top picks to give you sense of what premium-quality dog food should look like: Wellness Core Dog Food offers a wide range of products for different breeds and life stages, but all of them have one thing in common: dog food that is scientifically tailored to meet the nutritional needs of any dog. Apart from being all-natural and preservative-free, this line of food offers healthy treats and snacks like doggy peanut butter. Border Collie crosses come in all shapes and sizes, so before you go on and buy a bunch of kibbles, make sure you know the difference between the best dry dog food for small dogs and the best large breed dry dog food —they can both be healthy but are not equally suited for dogs of all sizes. Height: inches at the shoulder Weight: 55 - 70 lb. Lifespan: 10 years Boxer Border Collie Mix Personality Like all hybrids, you have to look to the parents to get a good read on how they will likely behave. Since both parent breeds are family oriented dogs, this guy should make a good companion. They are affectionate towards family and children. They should get along well with other animals. They are somewhat capable of independence, or alone time when the house is noisy or full. Early socialization helps take care of any bad habits that could develop. She responds well to positive reinforcement, like all dogs. She should be rather affectionate and enjoy spending lots of time with you. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. The Boxer mixed with the Border Collie might be prone to Allergies, hip dysplasia Note that these are just common problems in both breeds. They are pretty easy keepers in this department. Get ready to invest in a good vacuum and keep your floors clean anyways. Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. What are the exercise requirements? This is a high energy dog that will need that from an owner. As I stated previously, they were bred to work and run all day so they will not be content just laying around. Plan on taking them for extremely long walks and hikes to keep their energy level down. A tired dog is a good dog though. Never tie your dog up outside - that is inhumane and not fair to him. What are the training requirements? This is an extremely intelligent dog that will be easy to train, however, it might be extremely stubborn. All dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. So make sure to praise her when she does well. She is an intelligent dog who loves to please, and loves a physical challenge. The more exercise she gets the easier she will be to train. Proper socialization is imperative to all dogs and puppies. Make sure to take her to the park and doggy day care to get her around as many people and dogs as possible. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia. A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background. Links to other breeds you might be interested in. Nonetheless, they are also very energetic due to their working backgrounds. The Boxollie requires plenty of physical activity. If left alone for long , they can develop unacceptable behaviors such as chewing, digging or barking. Want to train your dog without spending hundreds of dollars? Click Here to check out the brain training for Dogs course now! Boxer Collies are tolerant of children and they are generally protective of them especially if they have been introduced to each other from a young age. What About Other Dogs? Collie Boxer dogs are known to be non-aggressive, but they should be socialized early , since some can be aggressive towards other dogs. The Border Collie Boxer Mix is not aggressive and generally gets along well with cats and other pets. This is because they were not originally bred for hunting and generally do not have a high prey drive. Image Source Exercise Needs Both parent breeds are known to be quite independent. They also have high intelligence and high energy levels, so constant mental stimulation and physical activity are a must for these pooches. Your Boxollie puppy will be no different. This hybrid dog needs proper daily exercises, such as long walks and quality playtime. Doggie games like Frisbee and Fetch are highly recommended. The Border Collie Boxer Mix also makes a good partner for jogging, running and hiking. They also do well in dog sports such as agility, obedience, and field trials. A secure, fenced-in yard is recommended because both the Border Collie and the Boxer can open latches and doors. Boxers should not engage in strenuous exercises in hot weather conditions since they can experience heatstroke owing to their short snouts. You should also avoid leaving your Boxollie alone for long. Otherwise, you should keep him busy and mentally stimulated by providing him with plenty of interactive dog toys. This makes them easy to train. However, they can also be a bit stubborn , so they need a firm handler who will use lots of positive reinforcements to encourage acceptable behaviors. This will make the puppy comfortable and confident around people and other animals. Both the Boxer and the Border Collie are good candidates for housetraining, so housetraining your Boxollie should be an easy task , provided you use the right strategies, using crate training when necessary. Since both parent breeds shed throughout the year, your Boxollie will also do the same. Brushing should be done based on the length of the coat. You should also brush their teeth, clean their ears and clip the nails as necessary.
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german shepherd puppy names and meanings - Imagine you could come home to a lovable, dedicated, companion for life! If you knew what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy, you could find your next best friend. Before you buy your new best friend, read this information so you know what to look for in buying a healthy, quality German Shepherd puppy. I group them into major categories. Will you show him in conformation? Do you want to work with him in Schutzhund or herding? Or do you want a confident and alert companion? Know exactly what you want from your puppy. These dogs are the least costly since they have a trait that prevents them from winning in conformation competitions. These flaws rarely matter to most pet owners. And many minor faults like flat withers or slightly smaller offset ears will probably go unnoticed by most owners. The vast majority of GSDs are family pets. These dogs make great pets as long as they have sound temperaments! They breed some dogs for certain traits that are highly desirable but considered a fault. For example, long-coat or plush-coat GSDs. Show-quality dogs have good temperament and health. You usually buy them for their breed standard qualities that make them able to compete in confirmation or show events. A show-quality dog may cost significantly more if they have the traits desirable to win at a show. This group comes from Championship show lines with a long history of winning. If you plan on showing your Shepherd this is the quality you want. Beware of any breeder who claims they only raise competition-quality dogs. Even the best breeders produce many pet-quality dogs and if a breeder says they only breed perfect dogs, this is a red flag to not buy from them. The GSD is a herding breed, and the working-quality dogs excel at working trials such as scent competitions and Schutzhund. Other work includes climbing and jumping competitions or searching and tracking. They need mental stimulation to keep them occupied and take a lot of time to handle properly. These dogs are better with experienced handlers since you use them for high drive working and competition. They require hours and years of training and preparation for you to have total control during competition. We base this decision on preference. With the correct upbringing and training, both sexes are loyal companions and good with children. They may grow into more dominant dogs, so a confident handler is more desirable. Males may hike their back legs to mark their territory. This can occur on any object — chairs, walls, couches or even your leg. I suggest an extra bout of socialization during this stage, especially with other well-behaved dogs. So they may be better for the first-time owner. Unspayed females come into season every 6 months, so they must receive monitoring and watch to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Their season time can vary from as little as every 4 months to every 9 months. They can attract males to your property and on walks that will harass them if not spayed. Certain breeders and organizations will deal only in a certain coat length and color. The standard coat length is a short coat with double layers. Guard hairs on the top cover a softer underlayer of hair that provides warmth and protection. But there are many coat lengths available depending on your liking. Look online at the different GSD coat lengths to get an idea of what type of fur you want your dog to have. The longer the fur the more grooming involved. The color you choose is a matter of individual taste. Keep in mind the color of many Shepherds alters from their puppyhood to around 2 years of age. Your dog may become lighter or darker. Perhaps they will lose some of their markings as the color fades into the adult pattern. The best way to know what color and patterns your dog grows into is to see the parents of the litter. If the father is unavailable, then ask for photos. Why should you care where your dog comes from if you only want him as a pet companion? You want to get a dog that will live a long and healthy life from a source that has quality puppies. These tips will help you make the best decision on what type of pup fits in your life. Newspaper and Internet Classified Ads Newspaper and internet ads are in abundance. Many backyard breeders hide behind ads online or in local papers. But some breeders who use newspapers and classified ads are reputable and knowledgeable. The problem is you need to visit them to find out, and this can take time to sift through them all. Try the following more reputable suggestions to save yourself time. Dog Care Professionals Ask dog professionals for recommendations. Check with your local veterinarian, groomer, and boarding kennel personnel if they know reputable breeders in town. These professionals are good sources of quality leads. Use the same caution that you will for a classified ad. Verify their suggestions. Many of these organizations regularly receive puppies they need to re-home. While you might not know the full pedigree of the dog, purebred GSDs find themselves in shelters and rescues from no fault of their own. These organizations are a good resource for your first pup. Before adopting, find out as much information as you can. Was the puppy exposed to children? Did he live with other dogs or cats? A well-organized shelter or rescue helps you choose a German Shepherd match for your lifestyle. Start with looking online for GSD rescues and local shelters. Dog Clubs Dog clubs are local and national. These groups put you into contact with registered breeders through their own programs. They can give you the name of the GSD club contact closest to you for breed contacts. Dog clubs also have dog shows open to the public. This is a good time to watch the breed in action and to ask around for quality breeders. While using a dog club to connect you with a reputable breeder is not the only choice, it is one of the more reliable. If you are using a breeder to choose your German Shepherd puppy, this section will help you know the good from the bad. Use these tips to stay safe. Are selling overpriced or under-priced dogs. Lie to you and say you can make money off your new puppy by breeding them, despite them having flaws. Tells you that the GSD is a dog for everyone, with no disadvantages. Breeds multiple types of dogs and claims to be an expert on them all. If a breeder lets their mothers get pregnant more than once a year, this affects the quality of the puppies, so ask how many litters the mother has. These breeders selling unhealthy puppies also will refuse to take bag their dogs if you need to return them for any reason and have no contracts. They have healthy puppies and will answer your questions and have you make multiple visits. Openly show you where the mother and pups spend their time, including their garden or yard. Tells you the up and downs of owning the breed. Have all pedigree and vet paperwork on hand for your review. Specializes in breeding only GSDs source. They openly share this information with you. They have screened their dogs for health issues and can confirm this with documentation which they proudly give you a copy. Healthy mothers are given rest from breeding, and a reputable breeder gives their mothers time off from reproduction. Ask if your breeder if they are willing to take back their dogs if you cannot keep them, as this is standard for a quality breeder with a good reputation. Make sure your breeder has a written contract with detailed information and health guarantees. These are expected for safe breeding practices. How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy Following this guide gives you the best chance of buying a German Shepherd puppy that suits your lifestyle. Know what you want from your GSD and where to find quality dogs. Learn what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy to stay safe from a sick pup and a bad breeder. German Shepherds have their own unique set of challenges. They are a large, active, and intelligent breed that requires an understanding owner who is willing to train their GSD using positive techniques. Devote yourself to their overall health to see the best results and help give you and your dog a lifetime of happiness. Remember, your pup will need mental stimulation to keep their brain active , a gentle exercise program , and need daily love and affection. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a choice for your whole life that will bring you many years of joy and excitement! Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Do further research into these local German Shepherd breed clubs in your area. Whether you get information from their websites or contact them directly for help, local breed clubs are a great way to get the names of reputable breeders in your area. Veterinarians come into contact with a lot of different types of animal care-givers, from breeders to shelters to individual owners. Because they know so much about animal issues in the community, it's a good idea to talk to a few vets in your area for ethical breeder recommendations. Also consider speaking to other German Shepherd owners, dog groomers, or dog trainers. If you visit a breed show, talk to owners and trainers about who they've had good or bad experiences with. A good breeder won't have a variety of breeds available for adoption. Look for a breeder who specializes only in German Shepherds. Your best option is to find a breeder who has years of experience with the German Shepherd breed. They should be able to answer your questions about development, temperament, and training easily and without hesitation. A key marker of a good breeder is the amount of effort they put into early socialization. Puppies need to be taught from an early age to live harmoniously with humans. If a breeder keeps litters isolated away from the home, the puppies will not be used to the sights and sounds of a normal household, and won't be used to human interaction. This can become a problem by the time they are old enough to be adopted. Make sure the puppies spend at least some time in the breeders' home with them. The more time they spend with humans, the more you can trust the breeder. An ethical breeder will never try to breed a female who hasn't reached sexual maturity — about 2 years of age. Mothers should also be given enough time to recover from pregnancies and being separated from their litters as they get adopted. Females should be healthy and alert. Never adopt a puppy from a breeder who breeds a young or unhealthy female, or who doesn't give mothers time to recover before breeding them again. Puppies should never be sold or separated from their mothers before 8 weeks of age. The breeder should have begun the puppies' vaccination and deworming processes before adopting them out. Make sure that's happened, and ask about any health problems the vet may have reported in these early checkups. Ask if the breeders have their dogs tested for the Degenerative Myelopathy DM gene. This can determine whether a common inherited disease in German Shepherds is present in the litter's bloodline. Dogs with DM suffer from progressive paralysis, particularly in the hind legs. Note that being AKC-registered does not mean that you are getting a healthy animal. It means that the owner paid money to the AKC to register the dog. While experts recommend against breeding animals with known genetic problems, an OFA certification will give you proof. Be aware, though, that there's no guarantee of health in any animal. There's always a chance that two dogs free of known genetic diseases can still produce a puppy with genetic problems. The breeder should be evaluating you as a potential owner, just as you're evaluating him or her as a breeder. No good breeder will just hand over a puppy without being sure that the new owners will be able to provide it with a good, healthy life. Ask the breeder what they look for in a good owner, and whether they've ever turned potential owners away. The breeder should be able to answer these questions without even having to think about it. You might also ask the breeder for references so you can contact other families who have dogs from previous litters. A reputable breeder should ask questions about your dog background and experience, your lifestyle, and your family to guide you in making the best decision. As difficult as it may be, a good breeder will be willing to turn you away if they think you're a bad fit for their particular puppies. For example, if the litter has particularly inactive parents, the puppies may not be a good fit for your highly active lifestyle. If you get turned away, ask if the breeder can point you to other options and litters so you can expand your search. Also ask if they have any unborn litters coming up that may be a better fit for you. Be patient and don't get discouraged. With enough patience and legwork, you'll find the right puppy. Don't lie to a breeder just to get a puppy, though. Trust the breeder's decision-making process. You don't want to end up with a dog who doesn't fit your needs. Avoid any breeder who offers to cut you a "deal," who has unclean or smelly kennels, or who acts suspiciously in any way. Trust your instincts. A breeder who's in it just for the money has the wrong motivation, and likely isn't interested in the welfare of their dogs. Make sure the dogs are not crowded into cages. They should have plenty of room to stumble around and explore their surroundings. Part of the time, puppies should be kept in the home to expose them to household environments. There should be adequate food and water for all animals on the premises. Kennels should be cleaned daily. Although it may be that a dog had an accident just before you arrived, be suspicious of a kennel that looks like it hasn't been cleaned recently. If a breeder doesn't have a return policy, it suggests they don't really care what happens to their dogs once they leave their property. That's not a good sign! Also find out what kind of documentation you would get with your puppy. Would you get registration papers and pedigree papers? Negotiate for what you want if it's not included in the contract. Be very wary of a breeder who will not discuss the chance that a puppy may need to be returned. Does the contract require you to take the puppy for a vet visit within a set time? Does it cover hereditary issues for life? For only a certain period of time? What does the breeder agree to offer? Trade for another puppy when one is available? Are there restrictions on the activities you can do with your dog that will invalidate the contract or guarantee? Are you purchasing a show prospect puppy or a pet quality animal? Does the breeder have strong feelings or even bans about the vaccinations, foods or supplements for your puppy? Are these opinions based on solid science? Are you at home to devote time and training to their growth? What open space environment is your home? German Shepherds are on the no dog list in apartment buildings. Do you have a family with other pets? Also, a good breeder will ask you why do you want this particular breed? The breeder should be concerned that a German Shepherd puppy is being placed within the best living environment. Here are some insights to help you bring home the perfect German Shepherd puppy: Types of German Shepherd Puppies Pure-bred German Shepherd puppies are available in a variety of colors and built. The typical description is light brown and black. Black: Rare and beautiful. Their coloring is either all black or a deep dark bluish hair tint. Panda: their coloring consists of black, white, and tan. This is their natural coloring, not contributed to being a mixed breed. Sable: A unique coloring of this breed consists of light black, grey, tan, or gold. As puppies, the Sable German Shepherd puppies are fully tan. As they age, fur begins to develop stronger natural colors. White: No, this German Shepherd breed is not due to albino coloring. Though rate, white is their natural coloring. This German Shepherd puppy will be smaller in size, whether male or female. The reason for this question is that German Shepherds are intelligent and engaging breeds. They can be trained to thrive in any situation and climate. Their ability to cope in any situation is amazing. German Shepherds make great companions, protective family pets, and they are hard workers. Knowing how to choose a German Shepherd puppy, you are wondering what things you should look for. In other words, you are looking to see if it has a good temperament. German Shephard puppies demand and exhibit affection rather aggressively. Parental Traits If you are choosing a puppy from a kennel or a breeder, inquire about its parental background. You want to know if both parents were healthy and friendly. Carefully Examine the Puppy You want to look again for a puppy that is active and healthy. To choose the best German Shepherd puppy, you must become an amateur canine detective and examine the puppy closely. Here are things to look for: A German Shepherd puppy should not look thin. Instead, they should look full-bodied. Their eyes should appear bright and clear. Also, you must invade their personal space by examining their butt area to make sure it is clean. Their nose should be clean and not runny. Their teeth and gums look healthy. Their hair coat should not have bald spots and should not be matted. Your German Shepherd puppy should be free from odors. Pick a puppy that has a good gait, and their tail is up and actively wagging. All puppies need their mothers when they are very young. A German Shepherd puppy can be purchased when they are between the ages of eight and twelve weeks old. If you decide on an older puppy, just make sure that it has retained its socialization skills with both people and other animals. Make sure that the puppy has gotten all its vaccinations and deworming medication. However, within 48 hours of purchase, take your German Shepherd puppy to your vet for a complete exam. The Kennel or Breeder Environment Whether you are purchasing your German Shepherd puppy from a kennel or a private seller, look at the conditions of both. How does the kennel look to you? Both kennels and private breeder yards should be clean, and all puppies should have clean water. Please do not buy a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder where the conditions are unclean. How Instinctive Are You? Many potential dog-owners state that they knew that this was the one when they first saw their puppy. We all have instincts; therefore, you will know what the right buying environment is when you look at the puppies. If you get a feeling that something is not right, leave and find a different breeder. When you purchase your German Shepherd puppy and bring that bundle of joy home, you want to feel confident that you have made the best decision. After all, the relationship with your German Shepherd puppy can last easily for up to thirteen years. Male vs. Female German Shepherd There are many people who only choose a German Shepherd puppy because of their gender or appearance. What is most important in purchasing any puppy is their physical and mental stability. Gender and looks should never be a deciding factor when choosing a dog that will live in your family for the next 12 years or more. Please perform thorough breeder research so that you can choose the right German Shepherd puppy that will fit into your living lifestyle for years to come. Do you want to select a female puppy for future breeding? If not, both your male and female German Shepherd puppy should be spayed and neutered. Female German Shepherds are found to have a sweeter temperament than their male counterparts. Male German Shepherds are more territorial. They also are a little more stubborn and proud. Male German Shepherds are generally larger than their female counterparts. The male can grow to a height range of up to 26 inches. Meanwhile, the female can grow to a height of up to 24 inches tall. Their weight will range from a full-bodied 75 to 95 pounds. When you are trying to decide whether to purchase a male vs. They make excellent watchdogs. Socialize Therefore, if you are going to be around other individuals each day, your German Shepherd puppy must be trained to accept people outside their family unit. Introduce your German Shepherd puppy to strangers so that they will feel comfortable in front of people. By introducing them to strangers, will help them stay calm. They do not like to be left alone for too long. Because they were originally bred for herding, German Shepherds have high energy and thus require physical and mental stimulation. Make sure you have the time and patience to own a German Shepherd puppy. In patiently taking time with their active habits, it will work out to your benefit. They become loyal and loving breeds, especially when raised in a family setting. Remember the TV show Dog Whisperer? The host always referred to a dog requiring a pack leader. German Shepherds must learn that you are the pack leader. If not, they will take the dominant lead, and this is not good. They must be trained and actively exercised to be happy. German Shepherds love to explore and investigate everything. If you live in an area where there are porcupines, lookout. Young German Shepherd puppies will probably come home with quills all over their body. Well, you would be wrong. A German Shepherd puppy will want to correct this wrong and approach another porcupine! Grooming a German Shepherd puppy is simple and easy. Yes, they do shed year-round, so brush them occasionally. But mostly keep their nails trimmed, their teeth and ears cleaned. Dog breeders believe that to help your new German Shepherd puppy adjust from a litter to your new home, they should be crate trained. They need to feel safe and comfortable. Crate training is a learning experience for a German Shepherd puppy, but it eventually helps them get used to a family who perhaps must go off to work every day. Further Reading. Of course, you have already read a lot of books with advice on how to choose the right puppy of a German Shepherd, east European, as well as a Newfoundland, Rottweiler, Spaniel, or Spitz puppy. You understand what is the fundamental difference between these breeds and why a Retriever puppy will never become a VIP bodyguard, and a black terrier will hardly ever pass for a draft husky. Why Opting For a German Shepherd Puppy Is a Good Choice The German Shepherd is prone to learning from a very young to deep old age, while many other breeds cannot boast of this, even if their appearance is more perfect than that of a German Shepherd. The most well-known characteristics that a German Shepherd owns are: pronounced protective and guarding instinct; the ability to make independent decisions, and active actions, and at the same time be completely submissive to the owner; sociability, playfulness, and curiosity; lack of aggression signs towards others and deep affection for the owner; a willingness to happily take on tasks, learn, and remain completely fearless when faced with unfamiliar surroundings or unforeseen difficulties; In addition, the Shepherd dog is calmly confident and features strong nerves, combativeness, and assertiveness which are the main qualities of a good service dog. Perhaps, due to this set of breed characteristics, few larger and more ferocious breeds can compete with a GS, both for guarding the house and as a personal protector. It is not recommended to take puppies under 4 weeks old from their mother. This applies not only to GSs but other breeds. At the age of one month, the baby has already been given all the necessary vaccinations. However, only a person who can devote a lot of time to raising a puppy can afford to take a Shepherd at such a young age. In addition to 6 meals a day, and socialization, the new owner will need to complete 1, different tasks, which require, above all, a lot of time. If there is no time, it is worth finding a puppy aged 4 to 6 months. And it is advisable to take such a teenager from a nursery that focuses on breeding German Shepherds and not all the breeds at once. It happens that a puppy stays in the nursery because the money deposit was given for it but, for some reason, people could not pick up the reserved puppy. If the grown-up German Shepherd puppy constantly lived in an aviary and was deprived of close contact with people and the outside world, owners who have not previously dealt with this breed should not choose such a youngster. These young dogs are for experienced cinologysts. Lack of socialization can be corrected but it cannot be fully eliminated. Testing for the Puppy and Its Future Owner You may already know how to choose a purebred German Shepherd by external signs under the age of 3 months. Simple tests will help you choose a puppy with the desired character. Visit the breeder at a predetermined time when the puppies do not sleep or, conversely, are not hungry. You are taking a future friend for life, and enthusiastic emotions with such a choice are inappropriate. When buying a new friend, inspect the litter meticulously. Pay attention to the following: eyes do not water; traces of diarrhea under the tails are not observed; wet noses are without purulent crusts; legs are straight and strong; fur is clean, reminding of the plush; on the skin under the coat, there are no signs of peeling and scabs; all puppies are active and well-fed; the body is elastic and strong to the touch; the puppy has a pleasant dog smell; the mother is not exhausted; bowls and bedding are clean; there is enough heat and light. Of course, the owner of the dog mother has already taken her to the next room. Those who paid attention to the unusual sound are yours. Throw carefully, of course a tennis ball at the puppies. Those who were not afraid and did not try to escape are yours. Those who, having scouted the situation, did not begin to whine , pressing themselves onto the floor, but hurried towards the bedding are yours. Pay attention to those who have shown interest in a new object. The best are those who took and dragged it. Keys and money are the dirtiest household items. This testing method was used 20 years ago. Today, it is dangerous for the health of puppies! Invite those who dragged the rubber duck to pull a piece of fabric. If the baby dog willingly starts the fight, not letting the cloth go when you pull it towards you, they are good boys or girls. Turn the puppy you like on its back and hold it with an open palm for a few seconds. A clear alpha leader is easy to identify by its non-calming behavior for seconds, and even trying to bite you in this position. It may not be your choice! You will get too many problems associated with the puppy, or it will never be possible to completely subdue it. The puppy that squealed, pulled back its paw, and did not lose its interest in you is yours. The one who barks trying to drive brothers and sisters away from the bowl is not for you. The one who gives up its place at the feeder is also not yours. Yours is the one who, regardless of the obstacles, has taken its place and calmly devours food, without moving from its point, snapping, and running around the bowl. Now, you have at best 2 or 3 puppies left in front of you. You need to select the fat-footed one who will try to get out through the opening without panic and squealing. The tests are simple, but they will allow you to select a good puppy and raise a real working German Shepherd from it without unnecessary costs and nerves. Talk to the breeder. Such puppies are sold at a more reasonable price, but the puppy card for them is mandatory to be filled out as well. If you are given puppies for free, in the absence of their mother, there is a reason to seriously consider whether it is a Shepherd dog at all, even if their mother has pedigree documents. This is not a dog of one owner! The versatility and flexibility of this breed are proven by the fact that GSs accept a new family and a new environment without any problems. The main thing for it is to have its own business — to serve a human! Of course, parting with the former owner seriously affects the condition of the dog, but it will not have a destructive effect on its psyche. And the sooner you engage the German Shepherd in work, the more chances you will have to become a new God for it. If the German Shepherd was properly brought up and grew up surrounded by people, it has working characteristics in good conditions, and the reputation of its previous owner is beyond all questions, such a dog will be quite useful to your family. Finding out the previous story and background of an adult GS why it is refused, what the complaints about its behavior are, and other prompting questions is a must! The reason may be the saddest and most trivial — the previous owner died, and relatives are not able to either support or care for the dog. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. This guide will help you learn how to select the best German Shepherd puppy to add to your family. Is a German Shepherd right for me? This is the first question you should ask yourself before you even consider bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy. You need to evaluate your personal and family lifestyle by asking yourself the following questions: Where do you live? German Shepherds are often on the restricted breed list for apartments. Do you spend much of your time at home, or do you have an active work and social life? Are you willing to spend more time at home on the weekends and evenings during puppyhood, even if it means missing social events? Do you love traveling a lot? If so, will you take your puppy with you? If not, do you have someone or someplace you trust to watch your dog when you travel? Is your whole family excited about the idea of a new German Shepherd puppy? Are you already active or willing to become more active? Do you have time in your schedule to devote to training? Knowing the answers to those questions will help get you a couple of steps closer to deciding whether or not a German Shepherd is the right choice for you. Important things to know about German Shepherds: German Shepherd dogs are sometimes affectionately known as German shedders. German Shepherds shed all year long , however, they blow their coats twice a year during which time they will shed exponentially more. When considering getting this breed, you should be comfortable having a dog that sheds. Trimming their nails , cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and brushing their coat regularly is sufficient. Of course, during the shedding seasons more frequent brushing will be needed. German Shepherds were originally developed for herding sheep. Accordingly, they have the desire to work and respond best to proper training from a young age, and an active lifestyle. German Shepherds are known to be clingy, so be prepared to have a shadow following you around the house and maybe even in the restroom. German Shepherds are good with kids and are great family dogs. However, they need proper socialization and training at a young age so they can learn how to behave around both kids and adults. German Shepherds require a lot of mental stimulation and have high energy levels, especially as a puppy. As much as I love Allie, she was more than a handful as a puppy. I have seen instances where people underestimate the time, energy, and training a German Shepherd puppy requires and get overwhelmed after bringing their puppy home. These people end up giving up their puppies. It breaks my heart to know these awesome dogs are given up because of a lack of knowledge when selecting a breed of dog. Although they are a handful if you are willing to put in the effort they are in my opinion one of the best breeds of dog to own. German Shepherds are too smart for their own good. They learn things scary fast and sometimes get themselves into trouble because of how smart they are. They learn your routine and habits, and they also learn when and how they can get away with mischief. German Shepherds are incredibly loyal and become very connected to their owners and family. German Shepherds are typically loving and affectionate. From the second I met Allie she greeted me with a wet tongue to the face. That is still her favorite greeting she will kiss anyone that will allow her to get close enough. German Shepherds need training. They need to know that you are the leader and in charge. If not, they will quickly take over the role of being in charge and that is where problems arise. A bored, untrained, not active German Shepherd can become one of the stories you sometimes hear on the news about a GSD being aggressive. In most of those cases, the problem was with the owners and not the dog breed as a whole. Adoption or Breeder? First, you need to decide if you are going to adopt a German Shepherd puppy or buy one from a breeder. Here are some of the benefits of adopting: Rescue puppies are often already sociable, at least partially trained, and loving dogs. Therefore, you will save a lot of time on house training your new puppy. Older puppies or dogs are likely to be calmer than a younger puppy. You are saving the life of a dog that might not have otherwise found a home. The cost of adopting is typically much cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder. If you decide to get a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder, here are a few things that can help you identify a good, ethical German Shepherd breeder: Ethical breeders care about the health and wellbeing of the puppy and are not just in the business for money. Ethical breeders always make sure that only healthy dogs breed together and follow a strict breeding program where they ensure that breeding and puppy spaces are clean. They should also have papers showing the age of the parent and the family tree of the puppy. Ethical breeders will happily show you around their entire setup; they should have nothing to hide. Ethical breeders will happily answer as many questions as you have to ask. You want to select one that will be compatible with you and your family. Consider the following when picking a puppy from the litter: Choose a puppy that is sociable around you and other puppies. Pick a puppy that walks confidently with its head high and tail up and wagging. Choose a puppy that has clear eyes, ears , and teeth, walks evenly, and appears clean. Basically, choose a puppy that looks healthy. Look at the personalities of the puppies. Choose a welcoming puppy that wants to greet you as opposed to one that retreats or appears shy. Ask to interact with each puppy one by one after seeing them with their littermates. That way you can get a better sense of how the puppy responds to you without distractions. If possible, visit the litter at least three times before making a final decision, this will allow you to determine the personalities of each of those little fluff balls, and see which would best fit into your family. How old should a German Shepherd puppy be when you take it home? Any puppy should be at least 8 weeks old before being separated from their mother. By this timeline, their sensory organs will have also developed fully which will help you to spot any deformities or medical issues. Be wary of any breeder that will allow you to take your puppy home before 8 weeks old. How do you puppy proof for German Shepherds? German Shepherds are naturally active and tend to explore the world with their mouths, especially during their adolescent period. So, before you can bring your new puppy home, there are a few things you can do to puppy-proof your house: Get rid of any poisonous plants or put them out of reach of your new puppy. Cover electrical cords with cable wraps or PVC pipes. Buy a new laundry basket that has a lid, no holes, and is tall. Make sure both your kitchen and bathroom trash cans have lids. Your new puppy will dig around for anything to bite, like chicken bones, diapers, used hygienic products, or even a disposable razor. If possible, you should buy new trash cans that only open when a button is pressed. Store all the chemicals in secured cabinets or even better on high shelves. German Shepherd puppies have strong teeth and can open plastic containers by biting through even the toughest of plastic! Put away any small items or toys that are small enough for your puppy to swallow. Think of small kid toys like Legos or dollhouse furniture that could be dangerous for a curious puppy. Find a safe spot for your shoes. Whether in a closed closet or in the laundry room behind a closed door. I remember losing a pair of brand-new shoes because I forgot to put them away and Allie thought chewing them was a fun idea. Bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy The period of bringing a new German Shepherd puppy home and introducing them to your home and family takes time and above all, patience. If possible, plan to take off work for at least a few days after bringing your puppy home. I picked up Allie on a Saturday, and then took most of the following week off to spend time getting her adjusted to her new home. Remember, your new puppy has been taken from the only family it knew, and you are now their new family. That first week home was a good week of bonding with Allie. It helped her feel comfortable with her new life and allowed me to really get to know my new beautiful energy filled puppy. The best tip for a smooth transition when bringing your German Shepherd puppy home is to begin crate training and potty training as soon as possible. As a breed prone to separation anxiety , you want to give your GSD a zone to feel safe, comfortable, and content to be on their own. While the initial steps of crate training can be time-consuming, it can make the difference between a dog that is a joy to own, and one that can never be left on their own — so, be the dog parent your pooch deserves and put the time in! New German Shepherd puppy checklist and things to buy It is important that your new puppy feels welcomed into their new home. Some items are ok to be left with your puppy, and other items are more dangerous or will be destroyed. This checklist will help you to know what to buy when getting a puppy. New German Shepherd Puppy Checklist. One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a German Shepherd puppy is what their personality and temperament are like. German Shepherds are just like people. They each have their own personalities, and some are able to get along with other dogs better than others. In fact, how your German Shepherd puppy interacts with other dogs and people will mostly come down to their individual personality. This will mean that your German Shepherd puppy will need less training, and a lot of your interactions with one another will come more naturally. The best puppy for your home may not be the biggest, prettiest dog in the litter! How to get started Before you can worry about choosing the best German Shepherd puppy for your home, you will need to find a breeder. You will need to opt for a German Shepherd breeder who has a good reputation. So you will need to do your research to find the right breeder for your needs. You may even need to travel a fair way to find the perfect breeder. Even if your German Shepherd breeder is located several states away, it will be worth the trip. If you put in the right amount of time and effort now, it should pay dividends throughout the next few years. Here are a few handy tips to help you find the right breeder to buy a German Shepherd puppy from. Talk to your German Shepherd breeder One of the first things you should do is to give the German Shepherd breeder a call. You may be surprised to learn that quality breeders will actually require this to ensure that the puppy is going to a good home. They may not be as interested in the health of the puppy and their new home as they should be, and are more concerned about making a profit from their dogs. The breeder will want to ensure that you have the right space to accommodate your German Shepherd puppy. Have you got any kids? Training your new puppy and giving them the right amount of socialization will be essential for keeping your family safe. Do you have a fenced outdoor space? Your puppy will need to have a good amount of room so they can run around and play. They will need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy. Why do you want a German Shepherd? The breeder will want to know what purpose you want a German Shepherd puppy for. It could be as a pet, for added protection, or to show competitively. Do you have any other pets? This will be an important factor as you will need to know how to introduce your new puppy to other animals. It will also be crucial to know if you have any other pets which could pose a danger to the puppy. What do you do for a living? If you have to work away for long periods of time so that your puppy is left alone for large portions of the day, the breeder will want to know this. Can you afford the financial responsibility of this puppy? Dogs are a financial commitment. This may seem like too much of a personal question, however, it will be important to establish that you can properly care for your new dog. Questions you can ask your breeder There are far too many unethical breeders around. Some irresponsible breeders will take shortcuts when it comes to breeding, which will leave you with dogs who have behavioral and health issues. Do you raise other breeds of dog? This can show you whether they have been bred from healthy dogs. Have you got any references? A good quality breeder should be able to give you these easily enough. Have you got a pedigree for the puppies? This is essentially a family tree of the puppies. A good quality breeder should be able to produce the proper lineage of your new puppy when asked. If the breeder attempts to charge you for this, or says they will give it to you another time, be very wary. Every breeder worth their salt will give you this guarantee as a written contract. How often do you breed your females in a single year? This will allow them to properly recover from giving birth, and help to maintain great health. Have you got a detailed medical history for the puppies? A reputable breeder should be able to give you proof of any health screenings that their puppies have had. This is essential for healthy dogs. Could you explain to me if German Shepherds have any health issues they may suffer from as adults? Puppies should never be taken home if they are less than 8 weeks old. In fact, more than half of the states in America have laws to prevent this from happening. There are several laws which dictate how old a puppy needs to be before it can be adopted or sold. There are only 3 which actually allow puppies to be sold under 8 weeks old: D. These laws are in place for a reason. This is to ensure that all puppies have been properly weaned from their mothers and that they are able to eat without help. Puppies will also need to have been properly socialized before they can leave their mothers. Their mothers and siblings can help to socialize the puppy properly. Most of the behavioral problems in adult dogs can be traced back to this lack of discipline and not having been socialized properly. To make sure that you have a healthy puppy, you will need to choose a puppy that is being sold in accordance with the laws of their state. This will mean buying a puppy that is at least 8 weeks old, if not older. Even if you happen to find a puppy in D. Male or female puppy Perhaps you already have a preference for the gender of your puppy. You will need to understand that the two genders actually have distinct differences. Here are a few things for you to consider to help you make a fully informed choice. Female German Shepherds 1. Physical appearance Typically, female German Shepherds will be much smaller than males. They will also have a less muscular stature. Dominance A female dog will display less behavioral dominance than a male dog will. Family bonding Female German Shepherds are more likely to bond with the whole family rather than a single individual. Territorial A female German Shepherd will be much less territorial than a male dog will be. Male German Shepherds Male dogs will tend to be much larger than females. They are also more muscular. Dominance Males will display a lot more dominance than females. Single person bonding A male German Shepherd is more likely to bond very closely with a single person instead of a whole family. Territorial A male German Shepherd is more likely to be territorial. This means they could be more likely to wander off in an attempt to expand their home turf. Possessive These males tend to be on the more possessive side than their female counterparts. This could be over their food, their favorite toys, or even you. It will be important to give them correct training to teach them not to be aggressive towards you. They should be able to socialize better with others, too. But the best way to find out if your prospective puppy will be the right fit for your home is to do some proactive investigating. This can also be a great indicator of their future behavior, too. You should never force the interaction. If the puppy is reluctant to come near you and interact with you, then you will be better off choosing a different pup. Tests for your German shepherd puppy 1. Eye contact When you look directly at your puppy, does it look back at you? If your puppy stares back at you, this is showing confidence. If your puppy avoids eye contact then it may be anxious, scared, or have a vision issue. Clapping your hands This can indicate how social your puppy is. If it comes towards you and tries to interact with you, this is a great sign. This shows that the dog is eager to socialize with people. Call out to the puppy Do they come towards you at the sound of your voice? This is a fantastic sign. Pet the dog It will be important to note how the puppy interacts with your physical touch. If the puppy is affectionate and loving, this will be another great sign. If they bite or growl at you, this will likely be an indication of a bad temperament. The dog will have to be trained out of this. Play ball Bring a ball with you when you meet your puppy. Roll this towards the dog and see how the puppy interacts with it. Does the puppy follow the ball? Bring it back to you? Or does the dog keep the ball for itself? Puppies that are more dominant will keep the ball for themselves. They will also be reluctant to give the toy back to you. A more submissive puppy is likely to be frightened of the ball coming towards them. A more independent dog will likely show very little interest, if they show any at all. Puppies with an even temperament will show some interest in the ball, will play with it, but will also be willing for you to play a part of the game without showing any aggression. Searching for a more sociable dog? Keep an eye out for the puppy that brings the ball right back to you and asks you to play more. This puppy will be a fantastic candidate for training as well as other exercises. Roll the puppy When the puppy has come over to you, you can try to gently roll them onto their back, then hold them in place. Watch how the puppy reacts to you. Do they relax under your touch, or do they resist you? A dominant puppy will be more likely to resist you. It could even try to bite you or growl at you. An even-tempered puppy will resist at first, but will submit to you after a short time. Pick up your puppy You can physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it under its chest with an open hand. Lift the puppy up, and see what it does. Does the puppy stay relaxed or does it struggle? A struggling dog is likely to be dominant or scared. A puppy that stays perfectly relaxed is showing that it trusts you and that it is confident. This is a similar test to holding the puppy on its back. Chances are the puppy will react immediately. Any resistance or trying to pull their paw away from you could be a sign of an aggressive temperament or dominance. A puppy that accepts your actions will show a more submissive temperament. They could even lick you! Create an unexpected noise This could just be a sudden shout or banging some pots and pans. The important factor will be watching how the puppy reacts to a sudden noise. Do they show interest? Are they scared? Aggressive puppies could try and bite you and growl at you. Visit the puppy parents Most breeders will have both puppy parents in the same place. Some of them may only have the mother with the puppies because the father was on loan from a stud or a different breeder. Either way, the mother of your puppy should be with them when you pay the dogs a visit. If one of the parents appears aggressive, this could show you that you need to do some more training with your new puppy. A dog that displays more dominant tendencies will need proper training to take the edge off these behaviors. Choosing a female German Shepherd will also be a good choice. Puppies will have their off days, just like humans do. It will be important to visit your new puppy a few times and spend at least 30 minutes with them so that you can see what they will be like. They will likely prefer it to someone who only pays their puppy one visit before collecting them! This is a good indicator that the breeder wants their dogs to be matched with the right owners. If there are other people in your household who will be living with the German shepherd puppy, such as kids or a partner, you will need to bring them along, too. Your new puppy will need to get accustomed to the people it will be spending time with. It will be much easier to transition your puppy to living in your home. You should also bring some treats along for your new puppy each time you visit. These are all positive reinforcements that can allow your new puppy to get used to you and encourage them to bond with you. It will also be a good idea to bring something with you that you can leave behind for the puppy. This could be a new toy or a blanket that smells like you. This will allow the puppy to get used to your smell, which can also make the transition easier. They will also be very well acquainted with the mother of the puppies and have knowledge of the father. So your breeder should be able to help you choose the right puppy for your needs, and match the right personality to you. In summary So there you have it! Choosing the right German Shepherd puppy for your needs is certainly more challenging than it first appears. The most important goal is to choose the right dog that will fit in well with you and your family. As long as you do the proper research beforehand, you should be able to find the right dog for your home. Remember to ask the right questions when you find your breeder to make sure that they are a good person to buy a dog from. Be sure to visit your new puppy several times before you bring them home. As long as you take this responsibility seriously, you will have laid the perfect foundation for a fruitful relationship with your new puppy. Final thoughts Where do I start? The first thing that you have to do before you can pick out the best puppy, is to pick out the best breeder. This may come easily, as you may already have a breeder in mind that you trust and who has a good reputation. But chances are that you will have to do your research. And there is also a good chance that you may need to travel some distance to the right breeder. Even if the breeder is several states away, consider making the trip. Getting a new GSD puppy is a significant life commitment. The effort and time that you invest now in going about this properly will pay off for years to come. Here are some important things to look for in a breeder once you locate one that you are interested in pursuing. Call the breeder and have a conversation The first thing to do is call the breeder and have a conversation. A quality German Shepherd breeder will actually require this. They will not permit someone to just show up and purchase one of their dogs and take it home. They will ask you questions such as: Why do you want a GSD puppy? This will aid them in helping you choose. Where do you live, in an apartment or in a home? They will want to ensure that the puppy will not be in a cramped space. Do you have a yard, and is it fenced-in? They will want to make sure that the puppy will have adequate room to exercise as it grows. Do you have children in your home? They will want to make sure that you understand the importance of socialization and training to keep your family safe. Do you have other pets in your home? They will want to make sure that you know how to properly introduce the puppy to other animals, and whether any other pets you have may actually be a danger to the puppy. What type of work do you do, does it require you to be away from home for long periods of time? Because GSDs do not do well alone, they will want to make sure that you have adequate time to devote to your dog. Are you financially prepared to take on a GSD? While this may be a bit of a personal question, it is important to know that you are financially able to care for a GSD. They are expensive to care for, and it is fair for a breeder to ask this question. If a breeder does not ask you some form of these questions, then perhaps think twice. It may be an indication that they are more interested in profit than raising a quality puppy that they care will go to a quality home. Questions for you to ask the breeder: How many different types of dogs do you raise? Can you provide me with a pedigree of all of your puppies? A pedigree is essentially a family tree for your puppy. A good breeder should have a detailed pedigree for any dog they sell. Beware of any breeder that wants to charge for this or says that they will provide it at a later date. Do you have references? They should provide you with several without thinking twice. All reputable breeders will offer this guarantee in the form of a written contract. Do you breed your females more than once a year? Female GSDs should not be bred more than one time per year. This allows for adequate recovery time and maintains good health. Can you provide me with a detailed medical history for your puppies? Health screenings are essential for puppies, and a reputable breeder should be able to provide proof of these. Can you explain any potential health issues for GSD which may come up later in life? A knowledgable breeder should be able to clearly explain conditions like hip dysplasia and other health issues more common in GSDs than other dogs. If the answer to any of these questions comes up as unsatisfactory, move on. It is simply not worth the risk of pursuing the breeder any further. Unfortunately, there are far too many unethical breeders who take a lot of shortcuts which results in dogs prone to both health and behavioral issues. Why is this? You should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. More than half of the states in the U. And out of those states, only 3 permit a puppy to be offered for sale under the age of 8 weeks. The reason for these laws is primarily so that puppies are properly weaned from their mothers and able to eat on their own. In addition to weaning, puppies need to be initially socialized by their mothers as well as their siblings. So a puppy will be taught that these things are bad during these 8 weeks. If you remove a puppy from the litter too early, they may not learn these lessons and develop behavioral problems as they get older. Much like a spoiled child that never learns, often times the source of an ill-behaved puppy can be traced to a lack of discipline at a young age. So to ensure that you have a healthy puppy, that is also sold in accordance with state laws and regulations, understand that it must be 8 weeks old see link above for exceptions — regardless of state law exceptions, waiting 8 weeks is good practice. Decide whether you want to male or female You may have a personal preference for either a female or a male German Shepherd puppy. It is important however to not necessarily just go with your gut on this one. Take a moment and understand some general differences between the two genders. I will explore this issue more in-depth in another post, but here are some important general points to consider. Territorial: Males are naturally more territorial than females. This may give them more of a tendency to wander off in an effort to broaden their territory. Very possessive: Male GSDs are generally more possessive than females. They may be possessive over food and bones, toys, and you! Dominance: Male German Shepherds tend to be more dominant than females. This may result in more of a proclivity towards aggressive bullying behaviors to make sure that it is understood that they are the boss. Dominance requires training to keep it in check. Singular bonding: Male GSDs tend to bond more closely with one person rather than a group of people like a family. Territorial: Females are therefore more welcoming and less territorial than males. They are also less likely to wander off as they have no desire to expand their territory. Dominance: Females display less dominant behaviors than males. Non-singular bonding: Females are more likely to bond with a number of people in a family rather than an individual person. So, how do I choose between the two? This question comes down to the purpose for which you want a German Shepherd. If you are looking for a dog to have trained in protection and are looking primarily for a four-legged security system for your home, then a male is a good choice. However, if your primary interest is to just have a family pet that socializes well with others, then a female is probably right for you. Testing the puppy There is no better way to determine whether or not a specific puppy is the right one for you than to actually get hands-on and doing some investigating. However, even before you begin any interactions with a puppy, make sure that you are testing the correct one. Never try and force any interaction, begin with puppies that are naturally drawn to you. Just like with people, you cannot force a match and expect fruitful results. So be patient and make sure at very least that the puppy is not aversive toward you before you being. The tests: Clap your hands: Does it run away or does it come? A more timid dog may, however, be apprehensive to approach. Make eye contact: When the puppy is looked at, does it stare back at you? If the puppy looks directly at you, it is showing confidence. Vocally call the puppy over to you: Does it come to you right away? If it does how not, however, this could show a behavioral issue or hearing problem, or it could be an indication of another illness as well. Pet the puppy: How does it respond to your touch? However, if it meets your touches with biting or growling, then this is likely an indication of an uneven or bad temperament. It will not just grow out of this, it will have to be trained out of it. Bring a ball with you to test with the puppy: Roll the ball and see what the puppy does. Does it follow it and then bring it to you? Or does it take it away for itself. A more dominant puppy will just take the ball and keep it for itself, reluctant to give it back to you. On the other hand, a more independent puppy may show no interest at all. And one that is submissive may actually be frightened. If you are looking for a very sociable puppy, look for the one that brings the ball right back to you to play some more. The puppy that brings it right back is also an ideal candidate for training in retrieving and other exercises. An even-tempered puppy will show interest in and play with the toy, but it will also allow you to participate and take the toy back without showing you any aggression. Roll the puppy over: Once the puppy comes over to you, gently roll it onto its back and hold it in place. Do not be forceful but be firm. See how the puppy reacts. Is it resisting, or is it just relaxing? A puppy with a more dominant personality will take the path of most resistance, and it may growl or attempt to bite at you. And the even-tempered puppy is the one that may resist for a short time but then submit to what you are doing. Pick up the puppy: Physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it underneath its chest with an open hand. Lift it up high, even above the height of your head and hold it there. What does the puppy do? Does it struggle, or does it stay relaxed? A puppy that struggles may be fearful or dominant. On the other hand, a puppy that stays absolutely relaxed is displaying confidence in itself and trust in you. Hold on to a paw and press it gently: This is somewhat similar to holding it on its back. If there is a response to be had, it will happen immediately. Resistance or pulling the paw away may show dominance and temperament towards aggression. The even-tempered puppy will be you curious as to what you are doing. It may investigate a little and might even lick you. Make an unexpected noise: Whether it is banging a pot and pan together or just yelling, create an unexpected noise. See what the puppy does, does it show fear, interest, or aggression? A fearful puppy may run away or even whimper. While an aggressive-tempered puppy may actually growl and try to bite you. An even-tempered puppy will simply look surprised, and may even want to investigate a little bit further. Meet the parents A lot of breeders will have both the father sire and the mother bitch of the puppies on site. However, some of them will only have the mother because sometimes the father is on loan as a stud from a different breeder. But the mother for sure should be on site, and you should get an idea of what she is like. In the case of my last German Shepherd, I was able to meet both parents. His mother was very kind and sociable and eager to be petted. While on the other hand, his father was clearly dominant, and not a dog to be messed with. Because of my prior experience and knowledge, my GSD turned out exactly as I thought he would — fairly sociable yet wildly protective of me. This was all right because I knew what to expect and I was able to train my dog properly to take the edge off of some of his more dominance behaviors. However, my choice was an informed decision based on years of experience. If you are new to owning a German Shepherd, this may not be an ideal combination. I would recommend for a new German Shepherd owner to consider making sure that both parents are more docile, and possibly even lean towards acquiring a female for your first German Shepherd. Visit the puppy on more than one occasion Just like people, puppies have their on days and their off days. You will not be able to get a very accurate picture of how your puppy will be on one short visit. In fact, with my last dog, I visited him at least 4 times and stayed for at least 30 minutes with him each time prior to taking him home. A good breeder will have no issue with you doing this, and in fact, will prefer it. They want their dogs to be well-matched with their new owners, so this is common practice. The puppy should become accustomed to the people it will soon be spending its entire life with. So the more familiarity that you build now in this phase, the easier that puppy will transition to home life with you and your family. All of these steps are positive reinforcement for your new puppy and will build familiarity and a bond even before you arrive home. Also, bring a small blanket or clothing item and ask the breeder to leave it with the puppy. This will allow your puppy to become familiar with the scent of you and your home. Making for a better transition. So by default, this knowledge enables the breeder to be very good at placing the proper puppies with the proper personalities. Remember to stay focused and not lose sight of your primary objective, which is to select the right puppy for you and your family. If you take the time and care to do your research and ask the right questions, you will come together with the right puppy for you. But remember, this is just the beginning of a major life commitment. So take this step of choosing the right GSD puppy seriously, and you will have laid the foundation for a loving and rewarding relationship for years to come. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.