golden retriever puppy plush
German Shepherd Dogs in the Wales looking for homes Some of these dogs may not be available. Please go to our Welsh Dogs database Page 1 Page 2 Lucky - Barry This lovely young girl is Lucky, We named her this as she is Lucky GSDR stepped in to help her, she is approximately 8 months old, is fully vaccinated, entire young bitch, she is a lovely Sable coloured short coated girl, very loving, lives with other dogs at present in her foster home, do not like cats, don't know about other small furries as not tested, she do however have a seperation issue which is caused by her up bringing but will be over come with an experienced GSD owner, she would benefit from one to one training due to her seperation issue, this is the only issue she has and once this is over come she will be a great girl. Lucky will give per cent back in love and with a little patience will be a great addition to your home. She is currently in Foster in Barry South Wales. Petra Petra is 5 and unspayed. She has never lived with children but was fine with young children she met out. Petra does not like little dogs or cats, and she will stand up for herself with larger dominating dogs. She has been living with a male GSD and her two 5 month daughters. Friendly with people who are friendly to her. Her recall is good as long as she is not distracted. Petra does have a joint problem on her right rear leg and will struggle if walked more than about 4 miles in a day. Poor Petra has had a horrible start in life. The owner used to beat his wife and no doubt at some stag Petra too. She is very nervous of lighters and matches! She will need confident and understanding owners. Last owner had rehoming as mobility issues walking all of the dogs! Petra has been moved to kennels to keep her safe from this monster, who we believe also beat her. Yetti This lad is Yetti, he came to us with his sister Duchess but it was felt it was better to seperate them so she is also up for rehoming, he is 4 yrs old and a big boy, he is black and tan short coated, he is not up to date with his vaccinations but is nuetured, he will need an experienced gsd owner as he has been shown no bounderies, although he is much better since being in our care, he loves to play ball, is strong on a lead but again getting better, his recall has improved also, he is house trained and with training would make a loving pet, we will not home him with children due to his size but he is very good with other dogs and has in the past lived with cats. He is currently in kennels in Newport, South Wales. Ruby Let us introduce you to the lovely Ruby, she is a stunning black semi coated entire 2 yr old Bitch, Ruby was very well behaved when our assessor went to meet her, she gets excited to start but soon settles, our assessor says Ruby is a very well behaved girl, who loves other dogs and has lived with various other breeds, she will not bother cats, loves children and adults alike, she travels well in the car, likes to have her tummy rubbed, she likes bath time and even likes having her teeth cleaned. Ruby's owners have had her since 8 weeks of age and is only rehoming due to a relationship break up and her present owner working away through the week. Ruby's Booster is due, Ruby will make a fantastic addition to any family and her present owners have done her proud so far. Izzy - gorgeous big blue sable girl with a big personality This is the gorgeous Izzie. She is currently in foster, is very well house trained and has good basic commands but needs work on her recall. She is vocal with people coming to the house when her people are at home; otherwise she is quiet when on her own. She walks well on a check chain or halti. Does get on with some dogs but would be best to be rehomed as an only dog, definitely no cats and ideally with older children. Izzie is crate trained and will travel well in a car in a crate. She has an undershot lower jaw but eats well and picks up her balls, toys with no problems. She has no food, bed or toy aggression. Izzie would ideally suit an experienced home who will provide her with the love and care she so deserves. Check out our gorgeous Izz Wizz Buddy - Hereford comes with a free ball! Buddy is a very large but very skinny 5 year old male who is a victim of neglect out of ignorance. Buddy was bought as a puppy by disabled people in their 70's and consequently has not been given the attention and exercise that such a large dog needs. He came in seriously underweight with chronic diarhoea, sore ears, runny eyes and overgrown claws. He weighed just 29kg when he should probably be around 45kg for his size. He has had problems with his digestive system which is being treated although Buddy may have an underlying allergy to some foods so will need to be fed either raw food or a sensitive dry food. He is a wonderful example of the breed with a super temperament. He ignores other dogs, loves people and even greets the postie with a big waggy tail. He pulls a little on the lead and he always wants to carry his ball with him. He is a very large shepherd and when up to his full weight he is going to look magnificent. Page 1 Page 2 "He is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion. We also accept Paypal payments - just click on the Paypal button below. Please help support the rescue Please help us by making a donation so that we can help re home more unwanted German Shepherd Dogs. Thank you. German Shepherd Puppies are lovingly home raised and socialized at our modern 5 acre park like Kennel Facility in Florida Jacksonville. These are just a few words that describe our German shepherds. Life with a German Shepherd is a joy that one must experience to appreciate and understand, and the intelligence of these great dogs must be seen to be believed. AKC Registered Puppies In Lake Wales Our dogs have provided countless individuals and families with a loyal pet that has a high aptitude, as well as the ability to provide protection. Each of the German shepherd puppies we have for sale are AKC registered and come from a superior lineage. Notably, our German Shepherds go through rigorous testing to qualify for breeding, as our dogs are bred with top sires that have at least a V or VA show rating. German Shepherds are well known for their character and temperament. Poised and confident, our pups are faithful and intelligent companions. They are also great protection dogs, as many safeguard homes, property or livestock. Our breeding program has earned the the highest level of accomplishments that a kennel in the United States can achieve. All of our German Shepherds come with a written guarantee and have been vet-checked, socialized, vaccinated to date, temperament-tested by a professional dog trainer, and above all, have been very much loved. Our German Shepherds are gorgeous Black and Red color, big boned, and correct structure. This price is determined by the size of the puppy, and includes the flight ticket, pre-flight vet exam, a crate the perfect size for your puppy, and travel to the airport. Every year we hand select dogs to add to our breeding program to improve the breed. Breeding top producing west German Sieger show Line German Shepherds is number one in producing quality German Shepherd puppies for sale. Being a German Shepherd dog breeder requires breeding high quality German Shepherds from some of the top rated German Shepherds in Germany They are superior in health with parents being x-rayed with clear hips and elbows by the OFA or the SV. These German shepherd litters of puppies for sale will make great companion dogs as well as excellent conformation, show and working dogs. Their inclination towards making their masters happy, their mental soundness and their high degree of intelligence have made this dog a successful working dog and masterpiece companion for their owners. Our breeding male shepherds are from top pedigrees. You can also visit us on our Facebook page to see recent news. Visit our website, at any moment you may feel you need more information than what we supply here feel free to Contact Us. Our main goal is to produce dogs that will become very special to you. Contact Us with any questions you have about our puppies or anything else.
Because of their good nature, these dogs are ideal for families with small children, first-time dog owners, and other pets. Even though these dogs are hypoallergenic, and F2 Goldendoodles are regarded as even more hypoallergenic than prior generations, your puppy will shed occasionally. Goldendoodles are a popular crossbreed noted for their intelligence and devotion to their owners. Doodles are active and energetic, making them ideal for families and first-time dog owners. Smaller versions are also suitable for apartment living. The Goldendoodle is a hybrid dog breed created by crossing a Poodle and a Golden Retriever. This Doodle is not an actual breed in and of itself, but rather a mixed breed — and in this case, a famous cross. The humble attitude of Goldendoodle puppies, as well as their lovely and allergen-friendly coat, is what makes them popular. Goldendoodles are energetic yet sweet dogs who desire human interaction. They come in both a standard and a miniature size. Because both of their parent breeds are amiable and very intelligent, Goldendoodles are perfect for families with small children, first-time dog owners, and other pets. They do best with regular walks or outdoor play sessions to meet their physical fitness needs. F2 Goldendoodle: Second Filial Generation Many owners are unsure which generation of dog they own or how to "break the code" of the numerous letters and numbers, even if they know the denotation of ages in dogs. The letter "F" stands for "filial" and indicates generation. Because this is the first cross, one parent will be a Golden Retriever, and the other will be a Poodle. Goldendoodle Generations and What do they Mean? Goldendoodles are one of the original designer dogs. Bred in , they were created when the poodle breed was crossed with the golden retriever breed to provide guide dogs for visually impaired people with allergies. Why Does Goldendoodle Generations Matter? While responsible breeding may lower the risk of some potential issues, their ancestry or the Goldendoodle generations plays a major factor in their physical characteristics, the potential health issues they may be at risk for. The first-generation Goldendoodle will always inherit the shedding gene from their golden retriever parent, shedding anywhere from some to just as much as a full Retriever. Because F1s should most always shed, we recommend going for a genetically coat-tested multigenerational doodle if your search for a hypoallergenic dog is a priority. Goldendoodle Generations Labeling Standards It is best to understand the terminology that is used when labeling the Goldendoodle generations to have a better understanding. While it may confuse you at first, it will be easy once you get familiar with them. The Number The number is the main indicator of what generation the Goldendoodle is. For example, the number 1 is for the first generation and 2 would be for the second generation. That letter means backcross. This is an indicator that the Goldendoodle generation was to bred back to a purebred poodle. While some are bred back to a purebred Golden Retriever, however, this is not common. What are the Different Goldendoodle Generations? F1 — First Generation An F1 is the direct result of breeding a golden retriever with a poodle. The mixture of genes tends to lead to a decrease in the health risks that may be associated with purebred specimens. Shedding — The majority are light-shedding to heavy-shedding. Allergy Potential — This iteration is sometimes fine for families with very mild allergies but not recommended for those with moderate to severe allergies. Coat — Their coat can naturally grow from 3 to 5 inches and requires combing as well as weekly grooming. You can opt to get the fur cut back every couple of months to make your pooch lower-maintenance in the upkeep department. They can have straight, curly or wavy coats. Grooming — Moderate to high requirements. F1b — First Generation Backcross Backcrossing is breeding a hybrid back to one of the breeds it originates from. It can be from a purebred Poodle or a purebred Golden retriever. However, the traits of either the retriever or the poodle can be intensified. Breeders tend to cross a doodle back with a poodle to increase the chances of a lower shedding litter. Hybrid vigor is still present, but since multigenerational litters have a greater chance of inheriting diseases from the same breed line, genetic health testing becomes more important to rule out disease carriers. It may range anywhere from inches or longer and can be straight, wavy, or curly. Coat — F2 coats can be straight, wavy, or curly. Please know that the coat texture of young puppies is not a reliable indicator of future shedding level, as the curl gene is distinct from the shedding gene. Grooming — This varies significantly according to the genetic mix the individual pup inherits. As a first-generation doodle, the F1 parent carries a predictable mix of coat traits both shedding and non-shedding genes , however, the F1b is a mystery. Unless genetic testing is performed on the F1b parent, the litter could result in a litter similar to an F1b litter or F2 litter see above. Genetic screening for health diseases also becomes more important whenever two parents with the same breed ancestry are mixed. It depends on what coat genes the F1b parent carries. Allergy Potential — Working with a breeder who coat tests parents or puppies would be the safest way for a family with allergies to adopt an F2b puppy. Otherwise, the odds of bringing home a hypoallergenic pet are not in your favor. Coat — Coats may be straight, wavy, or curly. Grooming — Moderate to high grooming requirements. When it gets to this stage, breeders often refer to them as multi-generational. At this stage, traits from either breed line can be emphasized either positively or negatively. If the breeder does not know the genetic makeup of the parents, some guesswork is still at play, and puppies of any shedding level can be created. Allergy Potential — Working with a breeder who is familiar with genetic coat testing is the safest way for a family with allergies to adopt a Multigenerational puppy. Although it is rarer to produce non-shedding puppies with straight coats, it is still possible. Usually, multigenerational coats are wavy or curly. What is the Best Goldendoodle Generations? Generally, the Goldendoodle are healthy dogs. The most important factor is if you are an allergy sufferer. If shedding and allergies are not a factor to you, you can never go wrong with F1 or you can choose the generation depending on the coat you want for your Goldendoodle. Get Your Goldendoodle Puppy Today! The Differences Between Goldendoodle Generations? Not all Goldendoodles are the same! While most have the cuddly, teddy bear, fluffy Doodle look, their genetics can vary greatly depending on their generation and what parents they have. So, what is a multigenerational goldendoodle? There can be significant differences between what breeders refer to as F1, F1B, F2, and multigenerational called multigens Goldendoodles. Knowing the distinction between the 4 types of Goldendoodles within this breed can help choose the breeder and desired traits you hope to find in your new Goldendoodle. What is GANA? This organization sets the standards and affirms that these generations are acceptable and contribute to the diversity of the Goldendoodle gene pool. The grading scheme definitions of each generation per the Goldendoodle Association of North America can be found here. Before diving into their differences, what does F mean? The number following the F signifies the generation of the Goldendoodle. For example, a first-generation Goldendoodle is bred from two non-Goldendoodle parents a Golden Retriever and a Poodle while a second-generation Goldendoodle is bred from two F1 Goldendoodle parents. Knowing these distinctions helps identify what traits can be expected in Goldendoodle litters. What are Goldendoodle Furnishings? A key element to discuss is the role that furnishing genes play in the looks and shedding factor of the different generations of Goldendoodles. The Golden Retriever carries zero furnishing genes and the Poodle carries two furnishing genes. Furnishing genes are responsible for the presence of hair that continues to grow in length most noticeable on the face and muzzle. Golden Retrievers have short, smooth hair on their face due to their lack of furnishing genes. Poodles, unless shaven, will have long hair covering the face and muzzle as a result of carrying two furnishing genes. Because furnishing genes are dominant, it takes just one copy of this gene to present in long hair on the face. However, two furnishing genes are necessary to facilitate a non-shedding coat. The curl genes involved in each generation will dictate the type of coat each puppy inherits. Golden Retrievers carry zero curl genes whereas Poodles carry two curl genes. All F1s will inherit a total of one copy of the curl gene allowing their coats to be wavy in general. For those puppies who inherit no curl genes, their coats will be straight to slightly wavy. More information and photos showing the different coat types can be found here. Perhaps a decade ago, testing for the number of furnishings and curl genes became accessible to breeders. Until that point, the only way to know if a breeder was producing high-shedding or flat-coated Goldendoodles was via trial and error. We now know that the curl and furnishing genes are unrelated and that the curl genes have no impact on the shedding factor. They are known for their friendliness, being the perfect family pet, and being great for first-time dog owners. They were bred with this very purpose in mind. Of course, their precious appearance helps too! The coats are typically wavy due to inheriting one curl gene from the Poodle and no curl genes from the Golden Retriever. F1 Goldendoodles benefit from hybrid vigor making them healthier than their purebred parents. F1 Goldendoodles have proven to have better longevity than their pure breed ancestors. This hybrid vigor comes from crossing two unrelated dog breeds. F1 Goldendoodles cannot be guaranteed to be non-shedding. F1 Goldendoodles can also come in smaller sizes. This allows smaller genes to affect the outcome of the size of the offspring. There is no way of knowing ahead of time how these two inherited traits will match up in any individual puppy. In the other F1B option of crossing an F1 Goldendoodle with a Golden Retriever, no puppies will inherit two curl genes and no puppies will inherit two furnishing genes. This pairing will likely produce higher shedding coats that will be straight or wavy. Additionally, the F1B Goldendoodle can also benefit from hybrid vigor. Under the healthiest and most cognizant of circumstances, these Goldendoodles can be healthier than their purebred parents. These benefits will only be fortuitous should your breeder be careful about choosing their breeding pairs utilizing health screening protocols. The hybrid vigor will not diminish if the breeder is thorough in health testing and ensures that the parent breed lines are uncrossed, meaning that the parents are unrelated. Like the other generations of Goldendoodles, the F1B generation is highly intelligent, easily trainable, and beautiful. They are created by crossing two F1 Goldendoodles. This generation requires careful selection of parents based on the traits desired in the offspring. Each puppy has equal chances of inheriting zero, one, or two furnishing genes as well as zero, one, or two curl genes. These genes can be inherited in any combination in a single puppy. Puppies inheriting two furnishing genes will likely be non-shedding. Puppies inheriting one furnishing gene will have reduced shedding most likely equal to an F1 Goldendoodle. Those inheriting no furnishing genes will have coats very similar to a Golden Retriever including a smooth face and moderate to heavy shedding. All three coat types are possible in the F2 generation as well — straight, wavy, or curly. Type means traits that all puppies in the same litter inherit eliminating the variety of possibilities within a single litter. Just as in the F2 generation, without careful selection of breeding pairs, a variation of furnishings and coat types can be created. In the multigen, breeders can begin to be more consistent as they can select breeding prospects using DNA to ensure two furnishing genes are present in both parents. This ensures all puppies will inherit two furnishing genes giving them a higher chance of being non-shedding and allergy friendly. The number following refers to how many generations of that breed have been produced from that specific line. These differences are important to understand to know what characteristics are possible in specific pairings. As you can see, not all Goldendoodles are the same! Each generation has its characteristics that are different based on their parents. Knowing the differences can help you choose which Goldendoodle is right for you and your family. It is important to know the breeder you have selected is knowledgeable about the genetics of each parent dog to be able to predict the traits that will be produced by crossing specific dogs together. You may not understand the genetic reports on each parent dog, but the breeder should be able to confidently explain them to you. Breeders that have not done DNA profiles on their breeding dogs before breeding them cannot begin to provide you with accurate predictions of the traits your future puppy may possess. These traits do not only include information on furnishings and coat types, but also diseases each parent may carry as well as the colors they are capable of producing. This certification includes the assurance that your Goldendoodle was produced ethically and is from healthy parents. Goldendoodles are well known for their amazing personalities and for being the perfect family dog. They are typically great with kids, extremely smart, and above all, endearing. No matter what their color or coat type may be, they are very hard to not love! The second generation of Goldendoodles also called […] Fluffy, cute, and smart, the Goldendoodle is a dog that has won the hearts of many dog owners across the nation. The second generation of Goldendoodles also called Goldendoodle F2 share this mixed lineage but are sired by hybrid parents as in two Goldendoodles. In any case, this cross is rapidly growing in popularity for a variety of reasons. Along with being affectionate, the Goldendoodle 2nd Gen inherits the intelligence and low-shedding coat of their hybrid parents. Breed History The first Goldendoodle breed was developed during the designer breed craze of the s and s. As breeders continued to breed their dogs for certain desired traits, the Goldendoodle F2 breed was born. Compared to other designer dogs, the Goldendoodle breed is still a young cross, so most of the litters today belong to the first generation F1 breeds. Multi-generational breedings F2, F3, etc. Size As with their first generation parents, the Goldendoodle 2nd Gen can range in sizes depending on its Poodle heritage. Most Goldendoodle 2nd Gen breeds come in various sizes such as miniature inches in height , small standard inches in height , and large standard inches in height. Based on their height, Goldendoodles can weigh anywhere from 15 to 90 pounds. Temperament The Goldendoodle 2nd Gen is loving, friendly, and extremely gentle with everyone they meet. This makes them a wonderful family companion, especially since they love being around people. Like their Poodle and Golden Retriever parents, the Goldendoodle 2nd Gen is endearing and loyal, which allows them to bond closely with their owners. Goldendoodles have a mischievous and playful streak as well. Because of their love of people and attention, the Goldendoodle 2nd Gen can suffer from separation anxiety so be sure to leave your furry friend with a companion before leaving home. Exercise Level The Goldendoodle 2nd Gen can be an energetic dog but it does not need a lot of exercise to be happy. Just a daily walk or a fun playtime session in the backyard is enough. Because of their Poodle parentage, all generations of Goldendoodles love mentally stimulating exercises too! You can try playing puzzle or scavenger games to keep your Goldendoodle occupied. Another idea is to use Kong toys to challenge your Goldendoodle in using their brain to get their treats. We recommend taking your Goldendoodle for a swim. Make sure you bring dog essentials before heading to the pool or beach. Grooming The Goldendoodle 2nd Gen inherits a beautiful wavy to curly coat from their Poodle heritage. The typical length is about 2 to 3 inches long; their hair tends to be the longest on their tail, ears, and body. Their coat color varies from black, brown, red, golden, and cream, though their coat tends to be golden color the most. One of the best traits of the Goldendoodle is their hypoallergenic coat. However, the Goldendoodle F2 has the non-shedding coat of all the Goldendoodle generations. This trait makes them perfect for owners with allergies to dogs. Too much bathing can strip away the natural oils that make their coat so beautiful and shiny. Training Due to their high intelligence and eagerness to please, the Goldendoodle is easily trainable. Goldendoodles love treats and praises during training. Without positive rewards, Goldendoodles can become resentful and wary of training. Sociable, intelligent, and low-shedding, the Goldendoodle 2nd Gen seems to be the perfect dog for families and single households alike. The Goldendoodle F2 inherits the best traits from their parent breeds, making them a delight to have in your home. Beagles may have been bred to hunt in packs at the behest of their English gentleman owners a few hundred years ago, but today this small-sized purebred has become a hardy companion dog. Willful dog breeds are difficult to train unless the owner dedicates a lot of time, patience, and consistency with dog training. We at Petland Florida have been obsessed with this athletic, impressive, and highly intelligent breed for a while. F2 Goldendoodles are classified as light to non-shedders. They only drop a little bit of hair here and there throughout the year and do not go through heavy seasonal shedding like other breeds. The best way to reduce the amount that your dog sheds is to regularly brush them. Slicker brushes are great for dogs with single coats and deshedding tools are great for dogs with double coats. It is important to realise that there is no such thing as a totally non-shedding dog and that Goldendoodles along with other Poodle mixes are the closest to this definition. Are F2 Goldendoodles Hypoallergenic? F2 Goldendoodles are hypoallergenic as they are a low shedding breed and therefore do not release much allergy inducing dander into their surroundings. That being said, there are other generations of Goldendoodle that are more hypoallergenic than F2 Goldendoodles. For example, F1b Goldendoodles are usually more hypoallergenic as they have a higher percentage of Poodle genes than F2 Goldendoodles. The same goes with F1bb and F2b Goldendoodles. This is because Poodles are hypoallergenic while Golden Retrievers are not. They love spending time around people and other animals alike and are so affectionate and gentle. F2 Goldendoodles are keen to please which makes them pretty easy to train. They are also relatively easy to care for. All in all, the generation of Goldendoodle does not have much affect on temperament. F2 Goldendoodles can have the same or very similar temperaments to F1 Goldendoodles or F1b Goldendoodles. Besides individual genetics, environment and age can have a big impact on temperament. F2 Goldendoodle Lifespan On average, F2 Goldendoodles live for 10 to 14 years however it can be less if they are one of the smaller sizes of the breed e. F2 Goldendoodles may have a slightly shorter lifespan than an F1 Goldendoodles as with each successive generation the health benefits of cross-breeding decreases. That being said, the differences in lifespan between generations is pretty negligible. F2 Goldendoodle via willows. Black, chocolate and pure-white coats are possible in second generation Goldendoodles however they are much rarer than common coat colors like red, apricot and english cream. Their coats can be anywhere from a reddish cream to a rusty brown color. F2 Goldendoodles with lighter red coats are usually called Apricot Goldendoodles. Red F2 Goldendoodles are quite common. Some English Cream Goldendoodles have black noses while others have light brown or beige noses. English Cream F2 Goldendoodles are often mistaken for Labradoodles because they are so light in color. It is not a rare coat color as they can inherit it from either the Poodle or the Golden Retriever. They may have small white patches over their body like on their chest or paws however these as technically Black and White Goldendoodles. F2 Goldendoodles can only be this color if they inherit it from the Poodle as purebred Golden Retrievers are never black. They are therefore more commonly found in back-cross generations such as an F1b, F1bb or F2b Goldendoodle. It is a rare coat color for second generation Goldendoodles as they can only inherit this coat color from the Poodle side. They are more commonly found in back-cross generations such as an F1b, F1bb or F2b Goldendoodle. They feature a solid pure white coat that can be curly or wavy and usually have black noses and dark colored eyes. It is extremely rare to find white coats in second generation Goldendoodles as the gene for a white coat can only be inherited from the Poodle side. That is why White Goldendoodles are really only seen in back-cross generations such as F1b, F1bb and F2b Goldendoodles. If you want to know more about this rare coat color, read our White Goldendoodles guide here. F2 Goldendoodle via dood. Some popular ones include: Puppy Cut.
Crate training a Bulldog is an easy task, this wonderful dog is known for being sweet, devoted, and easygoing. The crate training process should start as soon as the dog is home, and the younger the puppy the better, old dogs tend to have acquired old habits that need to be changed. Should bulldogs be crate trained? But before you put a leash on your bulldog and head to the pet store, there are a few important things you need to know to make the right choices. Choosing the right crate There are various types of crates that you can get, not all dogs are the same and each crate is made for a specific job. The most popular crates are plastic and wire crates, and there are also soft-sided and heavy-duty crates for extremely aggressive dogs. What size crate for a bulldog? Choosing a perfectly sized crate for your bulldog will make the crate training process easier, so what makes a crate the perfect size: The crate should be big enough for the dog to stand up, lay down and turn around comfortably with a few extra inches on each side. The crate should have a divider to adjust its size as the puppy grows not to change crates every couple of months. Most new dog owners think that crate training is cruel and try to compensate for that with the largest crate they can get their hands on. According to the AKC standards, bulldogs are inches in height and weigh around 50 pounds, for a dog this big the perfect crate is 36 inches. We strongly recommend the Midwest Ultima Pro Metal Crate check price at Amazon , it comes with a divider and has a double doors feature which makes exploring it easy for the dog in the early stages of the training. Preparing training treats Training treats are a very important tool that will make crate training easier and much faster, doing it without treats is very stressful but doable if you must. Treats are used as lures to get the dog in the crate and rewards to enforce good behavior, so you must get some ready before you introduce your dog to his crate. They are also prone to Cardiac and patella issues, so using just enough treats is safer for their health, read the Official Breed Club Health Statement. A dog that is low on energy and just had a good playtime is more willing to just relax in his crate. Dogs should only have access to interactive toys when you are there to play with them, they are the ultimate reward especially for a dog like a bulldog that is eager to please. So what makes a good crate placement? The crate should not be placed next to engines or heaters or anything that makes loud noises because it will disturb your dog. It should not be directly exposed to the sun, nor placed in a windy spot. The crate should not be in a dark spot that does not get some sunlight during the day. At night the crate should be close to your bedroom so you can hear your puppy if he needs to go for a potty break or is whining in there. We found that is very convenient to have two crates for your dog, one in the living area and another in the bedroom, or you can just use one and move it around from room to room. Following these steps will make the process easier for you, so make sure each step is valid and the dog is clearly on board before moving on to the next. Introducing your bulldog to his crate Crate training is basically creating a relationship between the dog and his crate, like any relationship the first impression is always important. Once your dog is in the crate you want to reward and praise him heavily to enforce being in the crate as good behavior that pleases you. Bulldogs are smart enough dogs and they also love treats, so your dog will soon figure out that being in the crate means having treats and will offer to get in on his own to get the treat. This is a great way to tell that your dog is getting used to his crate and is already associating it with some happy experiences with all the treats, the verbal praise, and the rubbing he gets in there. Make sure when the dog is getting into the crate that the doors are well secured to avoid any incidents that might scare the dog and set you back in training. Making the crate great At this point of the crate training process, your bulldog should be getting in the crate willingly and already has a good thing going on with the treats and praise, all you need to do is keep it going. Food will keep your dog distracted but you should not rush it, once your bulldog has finished his meal you can open the door and let him out if he wants. Interacting with your bulldog while in the crate is key to keeping him the longest inside, dogs generally associate happy memories with places, this will make the crate a great place for your dog. Once your dog is used to spending time in his crate after the meals, you can start to move away slowly from the crate, a few minutes at a time. The goal is for your bulldog to feel safe spending time alone in the crate with you not around, start slow and begin with simply moving around the room walking in and out of the room for a few minutes while gradually increasing the time. Home alone At this point, your dog should be able to spend time alone in the crate with no one around without any objections, which is what crate training is all about. Most people will make a scene out of leaving and say goodbye to their dog then leave, this is a bad idea and all it does is associate being left alone with the crate. Crate training a bulldog puppy at night Crate training a puppy at night can be intimidating especially the first night , most dogs will reject the crate and start whining, and young puppies will have to wake up for a potty break. However, if you prepare well for the night and do a good job with the introduction phase, your bulldog will be more willing to spend the night there. Make sure your dog feeds and goes for a walk just before he has to get into the crate for the night, this way you can limit the number of times you need to wake up to let him out for his business. The most important thing you should keep in mind is that you should not let the puppy out of the crate when he starts whining at night, try to distract him and get his attention by talking or gently tapping on the crate. How long can a bulldog stay in the crate? Younger puppies can not spend more than one hour in the crate at a time, but they can of course spend two to three sessions a day in the crate. Active breeds also have a hard time staying in the crate for too long especially if left alone with no distractions. A dog that has plenty of exercise and playtime before going in the crate is able to spend more time in there. Bulldogs are not very active dogs and do not need a lot of activities so adults can go for long periods at a time but at most four hours, but they can not go back for the rest of the day and should have a good walk and some attention after the crate time. Is it hard to crate train a bulldog puppy? Bulldogs are also known to be easygoing dogs that are eager to please their owner, so they are less likely to make a scene especially at night. All in all, bulldogs are one of the easier breeds to crate train, all you have to do is follow the steps and do not rush things up. Related Posts. Crate training will have many benefits for your bulldog, including protecting him from household hazards and reducing his separation anxiety. It should be either 24 x 30 inches 61 x 76 cm or 24 x 36 inches 61 x 91 cm for a French bulldog, and either 42 x 30 inches x 76 cm or 42 x 36 inches x 91 cm for an American bulldog. This will allow you to increase the crate space as your puppy grows into an adult. The crate should be a place of safety and comfort for your bulldog. Place his favorite blanket and toys in the crate. You can also place a quilt or sheet over the crate to make it feel like a cozy den. A bowl would preferable, since he wouldn't be able to pull it out of the crate very easily. Leave the door open during the early stages of crate training so he can explore the crate at his leisure. Once your bulldog is comfortable entering the crate on his own, work on closing its door behind him. Start with closing the door for only a few seconds and then letting him out. If he starts whining or crying, wait until he calms down before opening the door. When he can handle a few seconds, close the door, leave the room, and return after random lengths of time e. Remember that puppies cannot hold their bladders for very long, so you should not leave your puppy bulldog in the crate for long time periods. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source When you are home, spend time with your bulldog while he is in the crate. Bulldogs are friendly and sociable dogs; interacting with your bulldog will keep him from getting lonely. Always remember that the crate is a place of safety and comfort, not punishment. Your bulldog should always have a positive association with the crate. But when you first welcome them into your family, it would be a good idea to train your puppy. Crate training means teaching your puppy to remain in its crate for periods. Most of the steps are the same for any dog, but you must do what is best for your American Bulldog puppy. Pick an appropriate crate for your puppy. Create a cozy environment in the crate. Take your puppy to the bathroom before putting them in the crate. Place your puppy in the create for 20 minutes and leave the house. Come back and take your puppy outside for a little playtime and a small treat. Repeat the process everyday, adding 10 minutes each time, until you can leave the house for a few hours at a time. Crate training can be an integral part of any dog to be comfortable being left home alone. Crate training can also help with any separation anxiety your dog may have. Read our article here on American bulldogs with separation anxiety. There are many different types of crates, and each has its benefits, but you want to make sure it is the right size for your puppy. There are a couple of different criteria you need to look for when picking out the crate: The puppy needs to sit up, stand, turn around, and lie down in the crate. Your dog should have 6 inches on either side and above them when they stand. Make sure it is a smaller crate or has a partition. American Bulldogs will grow quite large, but if you get a crate with a partition, you can block off part of the crate to make it warm and cozy. Dogs like being in small den-like spaces so that a large crate could frighten the puppy. This creates a sense of security for them. Different Types of Dog Crates There are a couple of different types of dog crates that you can use for your American Bulldog puppy. Each one has positives and negatives and can help your puppy feel comfortable in their crate. Soft-sided crates are lightweight and contain a mesh-like fabric. These crates are comfortable for the dogs but can be hard to clean and easy for the dogs to chew. Plastic dog crates create privacy for your dog and are difficult for your puppy to destroy. They can have poor ventilation and can absorb smells easily. Metal wire crates are robust and offer great visibility for your dog. They are missing the coziness that is created in other crates. You can solve this by placing it in a corner, or laying a light sheet over the top. Wood crates are decorative and allow you to have some choice in how they look. They can be hard to clean and can be heavy to lift. All of these choices can be great for your American Bulldog puppy. But because your dog might not be trained well, a plastic or metal wire crate will be easiest to clean. Make The Crate Welcoming After choosing the crate that you think is best for your dog, you need to make it homey and welcoming for your new American Bulldog puppy. Dogs are known for liking dark den-like spaces to sleep in. If your crate is not naturally dark, you can use a blanket over the crate, and it will create a dark space for your American Bulldog puppy. Puppies also like soft, comfortable spaces. Place a thin, soft dog bed on the bottom, or a small blanket. These will be comfy and cozy for your American Bulldog puppy. You can even add a squishy cuddly toy for your puppy to cuddle up with. By adding these things to your crate, your American Bulldog puppy will feel more comfortable. They may still be anxious, but the environment should feel somewhat familiar and comfortable to them. Also making sure there are toys for the dog to chew on to keep their attention. This will help them focus on the toy rather than being confined in the crate. By giving them toys, they may cause minor damage to the crate. This will also teach them what is okay to chew on because you are giving it to them. If your puppy is not potty trained, place a towel on the bottom of the crate or potty training pad instead of the bed. Exploring the Risks and Benefits This will keep the bed clean for future use. If you are using a metal wire crate, take the collar off your puppy to not get caught in the cage. Leave your American Bulldog puppy in the crate for twenty minutes and leave the house. The puppy may whine and cry , but your job is to ignore it. This will get your puppy to feel comfortable over time being left alone in the crate. Take Your Puppy Outside After your American Bulldog puppy has spent the twenty minutes in their crate, take them outside, play with them, and allow them to go to the bathroom. This will show them that you will always come back for them. Take your puppy to the same spot to go to the bathroom. They will get used to one spot and know that this is the place they have to go. While you are outside, give your puppy rewards after going to the bathroom and allow them to feel close to you. That will help them feel more comfortable in their environment. Praise Your Puppy It is essential when your puppy comes out of their crate and they have gone to the bathroom that you praise them. This can help them know they are doing the right thing and create an expectation for the puppy. You can also give them a treat and help them make a physical connection between food and doing the right thing. Bring Your Puppy Back Inside After your puppy has gone to the bathroom, bring them back inside and play with the puppy inside. This will acclimate your puppy to the routine of going to the bathroom outside and helping them get used to the process. Crate training and potty training go hand in hand. Check out our American bulldog potty training guide. At first, keep with the twenty-minute time frame. Your puppy will slowly get used to the amount of time, and you will be able to gradually increase the amount of time your American Bulldog puppy is in the crate. There is a slight chance that your puppy will go to the bathroom in their crate. If they feel comfortable and like it is their place, they will not want to go to the bathroom when they are in their crate. If they do go, do not scold your puppy because they will not understand why. They also might not be able to hold it for the entire twenty minutes in the beginning. Your American Bulldog puppy will get comfortable with being on their own and learn the routine of going outside right after being in their crate. This will help get them potty trained and feel more comfortable in their environment. Repeat The Process You then need to keep repeating the process. If you do this every day, your puppy will become used to the crate and the process of being left alone in their crate. By increasing the time frame by 10 minutes for each crate training time, your American bulldog will become used to being alone and holding their bladder until they are let out of their crate. If you slowly increase this amount of time, you should be able to leave your puppy for up to two to three hours. Every time you place your puppy in the crate, you must take them outside before after. This will get them used to have to go out after being in their crate. This can be confusing to a young puppy. Over time your American bulldog will get the hang of it and it and taking a nap in their crate will be totally normal and expected. Post Views: .Contact Us How to house train a English bulldog puppy the right way The easiest way to go about house training your new bulldog puppy is by utilizing a crate. Dogs are and always have been den and pack animals, they naturally and instinctively prefer the shelter of a den. Therefore most dogs will not urinate or defecate in their crate, which is why it is such an invaluable tool for housebreaking. The first thing to understand, though, is the need for repetition and consistency. Begin by purchasing the appropriate size crate. Think den not condo! It should be small with just enough room for your bulldog to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably. It is not an exercise pen. The use of too large a crate will encourage your bulldog puppy to use a small portion of it for a bed and the rest of it as a place to potty. We use the Midwest Life Stages crates. Leave the crate door open and allow your bulldog puppy to come and go as he pleases. Keep his favorite treats handy that you only use for the crate. It gives the puppy a nice reason to go in and creates a positive experience. At mealtimes, feed your bulldog in the crate with the door closed. At night, just before bedtime take your bulldog puppy out to potty. Put your puppy in his crate and shut the door. For the first 3 nights set your alarm for 3 hours. Set him down and wait. When he goes potty, praise him and put him back in his crate. Set your alarm for 3 more hours and repeat. After three days, if it has been successful and there have been no accidents, move to 4-hour intervals. After three more nights, you have hopefully taught your puppy that you will be there to take him outside when he has to go. If there have been no accidents you can then start going to bed and waiting until your puppy wakes you up to potty. It is important to respond and take him out immediately if he wakes during the night. In the morning, as soon as you wake up, immediately take your puppy out. By house time, I mean freedom to move about but always in the same room as you so that you can keep a constant eye on him. We use baby gates to block off access to other rooms. During the day repeat the above process and continue to take the puppy out every hour. If he does not do his business put him back in his crate and try again in 15 minutes. NEVER let a bulldog puppy in training out of your site. Use the crate as you would a playpen for a human child. Even if you leave the room for a minute, either take the puppy with you or put him in the crate. If you turn your back for 60 seconds and your puppy has an accident, then you messed up and made a mistake and have missed the opportunity to make a correction and teach the puppy. Do not rub his nose in it and do not use any physical correction! When he goes outside give him lots of praise. Use an odor neutralizer. When an accident occurs it is important to completely remove the odor, otherwise your puppy will gravitate back to the area to relieve himself again. You can buy the neutralizers from most any pet store. Do not use household cleaners, most contain ammonia which will attract him back to the same spot. A Few Tips to Help You Succeed Puppies will need to go potty first thing in the morning, after every meal, as soon as they wake up from naps and just before bedtime. A few hours before bedtime take up his water, this will help buy you a litter more time between potty breaks at night. If you see him smelling a particular spot or circling around, pick him up and take him outside. Keep your puppy on a regular feeding schedule and take away his food between meals. Puppies may not initially like the crate. Some will cry, whine, bark and drive you crazy the first couple of days. Doing so will teach your puppy that if he barks or whines long enough he will get rewarded and this will only encourage the behavior. Training an English bulldog puppy takes time, consistency and patience. Dogs function best with structure, routine, and clear expectations. Share this post. Crating Philosophy When considering the natural habitation of a canine, often its home is a den, cave, or similar close-quartered shelter. They used this space as their home, to sleep, escape from danger, and raise their young. Obviously, your bulldog would not appreciate roughing it out in the wild. However, they still find comfort resting in a similar space. On some days, it feels like our bulldogs have decided to claim the entire house as their den. But, we know they find comfort and in their crate as an escape from the clamor of a busy house. Certainly, the crate can be a great tool and outlet for your bulldog IF used properly. As useful as crates can be they are often one of the most abused resources an adopter. There is much, unneeded controversy on using them that has stemmed from irresponsible dog owners abusing their purpose. As concerned bulldog breeders, we make sure to take the time to explain to our adopters the proper and improper uses of a crate. What a crate is to be used for… 1. For a further in-depth explanation of this process please read this previous article we wrote on the matter. We like to use the 4-hour rule at our house for an adult bulldog and the 2 hour limit for our puppies. Any time past these limits, we would seriously consider arranging someone dropping by the house to let them out and move around. Transporting your bully in the car A crate provides a safe place for your bully to travel with you in the car especially long trips. We have found they love to snooze in their crate when road-tripping with us. Sleeping Once your bully is completely potty trained it is ok to sleep outside the crate, but we have found they often prefer their crate as a place of comfort as they grow older. Escaping from too much commotion The crate should be a place that your bulldog voluntarily goes into; they should feel that the crate is their home! Crates are an escape haven for your bulldog when the house is busy and there is just too much commotion.
They should be fed, on average, 3 cups of food every day. Space out their feeding at appropriate intervals. But just like most aspects of the Frenchie Labrador, their activity level depends heavily on which parent breed they take after most. A Frenchie Labrador with more bulldog in them needs less activity per day — roughly minutes. However, if they favor their Labrador side more, they need approximately double that in daily activity and exercise. Your pup might just be too smart for their own good. When not properly stimulated, intelligent dogs can turn to undesirable habits such as unnecessary barking or chewing. Their short hair makes it easy to groom them as well. A big thing to note is that the Frenchie Labrador is not hypoallergenic. If you have allergies to dog hair and pet dander, this might not be the best pet for you. Other than their hair, Frenchie Labs may need special face cleaning—particularly if your pup has more French Bulldog in them. Your dog may have some skin fold in their face that will trap dirt, grime, and whatever they decide to get into. They do, however — like most designer dogs — take on inherited illnesses from the parent breeds. Fortunately for the Frenchie Labrador, most of their potential health issues can be prevented or mitigated through a properly balanced diet. Minor Conditions. Jo Parcels Jeannie There is nothing like the feeling of being loved unconditionally. Labradors are excellent family dogs. Labrador puppies are highly intelligent, good-natured, very willing and eager to please. Labradors are among the top choices for service dog work. Labs love to play, especially in water, never wanting to pass up the opportunity for a good swim. These lively dogs have an excellent, reliable, temperament and are wonderful with children as well as with other dogs. They crave human leadership and need to feel as though they are part of the family. Labs are easily trained. All of our mom's and dad's are Health checked by pre lim, background, or OFA certified! Take a look at our available puppies on our Facebook page: Come find your forever family member! Meant 2 Be Puppies are different because of all the love, attention, and care they receive from birth. Right from the start they know they are special. And when you bring this special addition to your home, you will see your puppy will instantly become a part of your loving family. The Labrador breed is the perfect breed for any family. Our puppies are bread and trained with families in mind. That's why we don't sell our puppies, we adopt them out to good qualified families. When you come to Meant 2 Be Puppies you can be sure you are getting the highest quality in Labrador puppies and a wonderful addition to your family. Contact us! We'd love to hear from you! Of course we have always shared this information with our clients. Recently one of our clients mentioned it would be good to put a link to the products on our website so they would be easy to fine. We have been using NuVet products for years. Just be sure to use the order code and receive their most current discount rates. Call us today at .The puppy in the above commercial is one of our precious pups! We have been raising French Bulldogs in Southern California for 12 years; before anybody knew what kind of breed the adorable Frenchies were. We fell in love with the silver blue French Bulldogs and we now specialize in the silver blue Frenchies. Our French Bulldogs are small with muscular type bodies from the shark lineage from Hungary and are adopted to proud families across the USA. Our Frenchies are top-of-the-line French Bulldogs with sweet personalities! Lab Puppies Health guarantee - Breeder commitment. Lab Puppies Parents, hips, eyes, elbows, or background checked. Lab Puppies Our pups are in a Calendar month of February! The first gem is the French Bulldog. It was originally developed from the English Bulldog. To be more precise, the Toy Versions of the English Bulldog. The breed was used entirely by lacemakers in England. Its popularity suffered numerous blows during 18th Century England. After that, it was transported to France. The breed was developed further there and became more popular. The Labrador Retriever is the second gem. It is one of the most heartwarming and friendly breeds. It was originally birthed in Newfoundland. Newfoundland is a region of Canada. The purpose of this breed was retrieving. Retrieving what? Numerous things, like fishnets and prey. Unfortunately, its population died down in its native area because of outrageous dog taxes. The breed survived and boomed in America. It has the shape of a Labrador and the face of a French Bulldog. The coat of the Frenchie Labrador borders on the slightly medium-length side. The Frenchie Labrador will have a slightly shortened muzzle and long ears. Its proportions can more than vouch for that previous statement. The height range of the male Frenchie Labrador is 17 to 18 inches. The female Frenchie Labrador will usually be 16 to 17 inches tall. The weight ranges are 40 to 50 lbs for males and 35 to 45 lbs for females. Consequently, it is only right for the Frenchie Labrador to have a long lifespan too. Commonly the Frenchie Labrador will have a healthy lifespan ranging between 9 and 15 years. The healthier your breed remains, the longer it will live. The normal range of the cost of the Frenchie Labrador is to dollars. You may have some difficulty finding markets with this breed. The price will change based on the health of the Frenchie Labrador and the pedigree of its parents. The Frenchie Labrador will get along with most breeds. Humans, it will never have a problem with. The Frenchie Labrador can safely be set around children. It will never harm them; instead, it may even babysit them. Training the Frenchie Labrador is a walk in the park. The Frenchie Labrador specializes in the trick department. The more it learns, the more it wants to entertain. It is, in simple words, a thirst for knowledge that keeps spiraling out of control in a good way. You may use a Dog Training Book for the training purpose. You will also have to use Dog Treats to train it properly. Caring for Frenchie Labrador As a human and companion, it is your job to take good care of the Frenchie Labrador. Good care means giving it a healthy environment and upbringing, so please pay attention to this section. This piece of information is vital in determining its nutritional needs. Normally the Frenchie Labrador will require about two to three cups of healthy Dog Food. You may use a choice of your own Dog Food. You will only have to brush its coat at most three times per week. You can brush it more often to regulate the natural oils produced by its skin. The Frenchie Labrador will also need to be bathed after every month or two months. You may bathe the Frenchie Labrador more often if the situation demands it. You are advised to trim its nails and brush its teeth. Brushing its teeth should be an activity repeated every day or two days. As long as you can tap into reserves of energy, it will be fine. You will have to make the workout sessions dynamic and interesting. We recommend using a healthy choice of mental and physical exercises. About 60 minutes each day for its exercise should be enough. If you do want more guidelines, then we recommend looking after it in its formative years. Please keep it safe from vigorous activity and ensure that it receives socialization and training from those years. You are also advised to keep its ear clean. The long ears of the Frenchie Labrador can become quite troublesome if not cleaned properly. Frenchie Labrador Health The main thing that we want to tell you is that the Frenchie Labrador does need attention and care. The health problems and weaknesses that the Frenchie Labrador faces are numerous. We recommend giving the Frenchie Labrador weekly thorough examinations. Otherwise, by the time the condition is diagnosed, it may already be too late. The smallest things can make the greatest difference. Accordingly, a diet is a definition of how healthy your buddy is meant to be. Breeds Similar to Frenchie Labrador.
Both of which conduct yearly inspections and verify my dogs are all well cared for. I have been breeding Golden Retrievers since .I hold a degree in Animal Science. I have worked several years in an active animal hospital. I administer most of my own vaccines, conduct progesterone testing with my own machine determines best timing of breeding through collection of blood sample , and I conduct my own ultrasound at home for confirmation of pregnancies. I conduct natural breeding with all my dogs. Delivery of puppies also occurs at my home naturally unless an emergency health issue dictates otherwise. I am very passionate about the care of my dogs and strive to have the healthiest and happiest puppies possible. If you would like to see more detailed information about Hilltop Golden Retriever, please continue to read on and click through all the tabs of this website. Hilltop Golden Retriever Location: If your still unsure of where South Westerlo is located, we are about 25 minutes northwest of Catskill and 35 minutes southwest of Albany capital of NY. We are closest to Albany International Airport if you are looking to fly. If you are looking for a direct flight, you might want to look into Newark but would require a car rental and some travel time on the road. If you are traveling from decent distance away and in search of a hotel. If your early for your puppy pickup appointment and looking to get something to eat, a few minutes away in Greenville you can find the Tasting Lab or the Tiny Diner to sit down at. If you want something quicker check out the hot dog stand in front of the Tiny Diner or the Dunkin Donuts just up the road off of .I worked several years as a veterinarian technician assistant in a very active animal hospital. Over the years I learned so much and gained a lot of experience that has helped me excel as a breeder. While I was attending college, I ended up meeting my husband. He also shared my passion in dogs. She was my dream come true and truly encouraged me to be the breeder I am today. I fell in love with a dark female puppy from the litter. Over time and seeing so many families pleased with our puppies we wanted to grow. We felt that a large property was a must for our dogs to exercise and play. We ended up selling our first home and purchasing the house where we reside now. Technically our mailing address is in Greenville however we are in fact in South Westerlo within the hills of Albany county. Both of our families are from the area, so the transition was very supportive and the location is very easy to travel from or to the New York State Thruway or from Interstate I.Soon after our move we have spent so much time with creating the best environment and care for our dogs. Throughout the year we get visited by the state and AKC to verify our dogs are in the best care possible. Everything was thought of during this build. The building consists of two floors. Fans are optional throughout the entire interior. We have additional propane heaters that will work with no electricity. The floors have built in drainage and are covered in grippy flecked epoxy. Our dogs have constant access to water and have comfortable Kuranda beds to lay on. We have designated areas for our older puppies after mom is done nursing them. These areas consist of very nice over-sized play areas. The walls are made out of washable white plastic, and we use g-flooring with fresh wood chips for the bedding. The puppies have plenty of toys and their own Kuranda bed s that they love to lay on or hide below it. Our outside run area consists of a fully covered roof, so our dogs are protected from the elements, with lighting and fans. The play area has over feet of beautiful black chain link fencing. The large play area also offers a doggy playground area where they have plenty of toys to tug and pull on. About our Dogs: We strive to provide the best and healthiest lines of Golden Retrievers. We spend endless hours in search and communication with multiple breeders from all over the United States. Checking pedigrees and clearances prior to committing with a new line. We have made some amazing relationships with some of the best breeders, all of which share the same common goal of breeding healthy AKC Golden Retrievers. We raise and train all of our puppies within our home. We work with commands, potty training, and socialization on many different platforms and various environments. Early on we are verifying their personality and traits are conclusive with a possible prospect for future breeding. As time goes on, we decide if they are a good candidate or not for breeding. If they are a good candidate additional health testing is scheduled per their age. We conduct several medical tests to verify healthy lines prior to breeding. The health tests set us apart from most breeders that claim their dogs are healthy per a veterinarian check or that claim that they conduct DNA genetic health testing but nothing else. One of the first health tests that we conduct and one of the most important tests on all our dogs, is DNA genetic testing. We have used Animal Genetics in the past but have been shifting towards using Embark. This test allows us to verify we have the best pairing of parents prior to breeding and that we are not passing on bad genes that could be avoidable issues in the future. After our dogs turn 1, they proceed to get OFA testing of their eyes and heart. A specialist either looks at their eyes or heart to verify they have no health conditions that could be passed to their offspring. If we are lucky enough that our young golden passes, we will move forward to the next health testing stage. The next health test that we typically conduct once our young golden is 1. While they are sedated to have these x-rays we usually also have Penn Hip testing done. Also, per our vet the Penn Hip is a better test to know the overall health of the hips as they test the elasticity and movement rather then judging based on an image. Last health test we do is done at the age of 2 years old. As the dogs age their bones calcify, a dog with failing elbow or hips younger then 2 could very well change to passing once they turn 2. Under each dog there is a link from K9 data. Unfortunately K9 data will not allow preliminary testing information in the link which is the OFA elbow and hip test results if the dog is under 2 years of age when the test is conducted. However we do list the preliminary test results under each dog. Once we have the official results K9 data will be updated to reflect their latest test results. We are constantly conducting health tests and updating K9 data as well as the webpage. Lots of factors could play into why a dog could fail their OFA elbows or hip tests. It may not necessarily be genetic but instead could be from the environment that they are raised in. Limiting their jumping heights is extremely important. Simply slipping on ice can cause unforeseen affects to their overall development. It is also highly recommended for additional joint supplements as they grow, we prefer the use of NuVet supplements see link on website tab for further information on NuVet products. Lack of vitamin C in their food is another considered attribute to not having passing scores. All of these factors are highly overseen during the raising of our potential breeding dogs. Unfortunately, sometimes our dogs do not pass all of their tests. We sometimes keep them, but we also have found amazing homes for them. We are even more particular in their home placement as we know their personalities and what would be the best fit. They will be spayed prior or be contracted to be spayed soon after being placed in their new homes. We are very focused on ensuring we know our breeding stock through both their individual health and their genealogy testing. Our dogs and puppies get a lot of socializing. Daily they are engaged with our other dogs, our young sons, our friends, and other family members. They all get a ton of love and attention. This ensures they keep up on their house manners and it also makes it incredibly easier when pregnant moms deliver within our home. Our dogs are not kept outdoors like you might see with other breeders. We also have them go into large fenced in play areas where they play in large groups with each other. We do not show our dogs or conduct any competitions with them. When I am not raising my children, I am constantly spending time with my dogs or interacting with potential customers. My husband works many hours in his law enforcement career to dedicate any additional time in competitions, trials, or shows. Once he retires and the children are older, we may pursue that however it is not our current focus. Some of the lighter goldens that we have also known as English Creams do have championship titles in their bloodlines as does our darker red field goldens. Any of our puppies with proper training could and would be amazing for shows or hunting trials as its in their bloodline. About our Puppies: I usually make the determination of puppies after 30 days of a breeding. I have my own ultrasound machine and can get a good determination of how many puppies are present. It does not give me an exact count. Only way to really narrow down the number of puppies is by an x-ray, around the day mark. I do not conduct my own x-rays and that would require a visit to the animal hospital. To reduce stress on mom and the puppies we do not do x-rays. I get a final count upon delivery keeping mom where she is most comfortable. Delivery of puppies take place in my home around the days after being bred, unless an emergency C-section requires otherwise. Typically, all our puppies are delivered naturally. Someone is always with the mother for the entire delivery. It is very strenuous but has the best outcome for both mom and pups. When all the puppies are born, we will post pictures on the Facebook page. We will then reach out to anyone on our waiting list. If by chance, there are any extra puppies we will make an announcement on Facebook after exhausting our wait list. Sometimes people back out and puppies do come up available at various times. During the initial few days into the few weeks mom and puppies are spending a lot of quality time together. We are keeping a close attention that everyone is gaining weight and seem to be progressing. The pups are handled daily by us. After about 2 weeks eyes and ears will begin to open. The fourth week they are starting to find their legs and moving around exploring. The fifth week if all are doing well, I begin the weaning process where mom is nursing less and less as I introduce kibble to their diet. We begin the deworming process and also begin the first vaccine. We do not travel with the puppies to an animal hospital. I feel it could be stressful for the puppies and creates an opportunity for the puppies to be exposed to other pet sicknesses. I have a traveling vet come and conduct full physicals on all of the puppies. You will receive a copy of her report in the puppy folder upon pickup date. We have outside play areas and toys for them to interact with. They will also be played with by children and handled by adults. They will have several toys to interact with. Obstacles will be in there play pens to learn jumping and crawling. Process Purchasing a Puppy: If you decide that you would like to move forward with getting a puppy, we recommend that you first look at the females and the males that we have. Sometimes the males could change if multiple females come into heat at the same time. We also have an additional tab where you can view planned future breeding so you can have a better idea of potential pairings. Next, I would like to have a phone interview so we can find out more about yourself and the home that a puppy of mine would be going to. In our discussion I would like to know which mother you were leaning towards and whether you prefer a male or female puppy. I can go over all additional questions that you may have including total costs. If both parties are fully satisfied, I will move forward with sending you over the contract. I sell all my puppies with limited AKC registration. Under certain circumstances I will offer full AKC registration for an additional charge. If you are wondering what the difference is between limited and full registration. Limited registration means you can never breed a puppy from me and it will be expected upon proper age that the dog is spayed. Full registration is only for breeders that want to purchase a puppy with intentions of breeding. I am not against giving another breeder full registration however it must be discussed prior, and all requirements must be met that I have. I do require the final payment to be in cash upon pickup of the puppy, so there no issues of bounced checks or issues with sending monies from one bank institution to another. No exceptions. I typically only reserve the first 3 females and the first 3 males as there are no guarantees of how many puppies are born. I go in order of when I am contacted. For an example if you contacted me in May for a female, and John Doe contacted me in January for a female from the same mother then John Doe will get first pick and you would get second pick. It seems to be the fairest method I have come across and will be moving forward with that process unless I discover a better way. I also reserve the right to have first pick so I can sustain my future breeding line as it dictates. I do not allow visitation to the puppies until they are ready for pickup. It also increases the chances for the puppies to get sick and potentially all die from a condition call parvo, as they are not full vaccinated. I have scheduled meetings with individuals that would like to meet me and the adult dogs fully vaccinated prior to making a commitment but not when I have current litters. I would recommend if you want to see the puppies earlier to log into Facebook and follow my page on there. I conduct live videos where you can see all the puppies. After a few weeks old we begin to collar them so you can tell them apart better. I do not place or pick certain pups for certain homes. Some people may not like that due to a puppies drive or behavior. I personally feel training is key to your dogs behavior. You have to spend time with this puppy and be consistent. Goldens just want to please you, but they will test you to learn their place in the household. If you lack experience in training dogs, I do recommend you work with a trainer and read literature so you can achieve the most success with your puppy. You will get an hour to choose your puppy. Please be mindful as I will have others scheduled after your hour of time is completed. I will need some of that time to go over paperwork that is required through the state to complete. I have no problems if you want to bring a trainer or conduct your own tests to see if one puppy might be a better fit based on their opinion. Please be respectful of my property and do not go adventuring around wherever you may like without me being present. Once you pick your puppy and all paperwork has been completed, you will be provided with vet records of your puppy and the vaccines that were previously given. At this time, I do not microchip any puppies. I personally feel the best time to microchip a puppy is when they are sedated which I recommend during the spay. We do require that you schedule an appointment with your vet within 14 days of the pickup date. You may want to schedule this prior to arrival as animal hospitals have been extremely busy. We will have gift bag for you. There will be some surprises in there for your pup, including enough puppy food for the next several days so you can either remain on it or gradually change the food to one of your liking. We highly recommend slowly changing the food over time if you decide to change it as they have extremely sensitive stomachs at this age. Sybil and Knox had a handsome litter of eight males 9. Reservations are now open. Pups can go home in 8 weeks! Toga and Knox are planning a litter to arrive around October .Three male and three female reservations are now open. Mercy and Knox are planning a litter to arrive around November 7. Golden Testimonials This is Rex. Age 2. A proud Saratoga Goldens sporting his new official Therapy Dog vest and badge. He loves bringing smiles and cuddles to everyone he meets. Emily Cal dark green is doing well and enjoying his new home! Thank you so much for such a happy and healthy puppy. He is so loved! Allie We love our little Emma aka Cream!! She is so smart and growing quickly before our eyes! She is very happy and playful, has imprinted on her big brother Cobe, easily climbs up and down stairs, walks on a leash around the property, enjoys the autumn leaves, sleeps all night, and is a joy to our lives! He spends a few days per week making visits to local schools, hospitals and retirement home. Everyone loves him! Ryan Daisy is happy and healthy in Massachusetts! She's especially in love with tennis balls and using them as excuses to dig under the fence we're working on that training. We're thrilled to have her as part of our family! Lock in your puppy price with a reservation deposit today. Please see our lower price on our link at the bottom of this page. We accept all major credit cards, Apple Pay, and cash. Reserving online ensures you get a puppy when they are ready to go to its new home. As responsible hobby breeders, we will not breed dogs with DNA deficiencies. We use the Golden Retriever DNA testing for six areas, including the eyes to ensure the best parental genetics in furthering the Golden Line. Every dog is different, and genetic mutations are always possible in any line, but we do our best to ensure healthy and happy puppies. Training a puppy takes time and patience, but you can do it! The companion and friend you develop in your puppy will be an excellent addition to your household for many years to come. Place a deposit down for your puppy to ensure you get your puppy from our next litter. Please read the details below: What are the advantages of a Saratoga Goldens puppy? Our Golden puppy parents are each genetically tested. Please view each mother's dog for her complete testing details. Our Goldens have a 1-year health guarantee as described in the reservation contract. Our Goldens are enriched with a daily multivitamin and are treated with supplements from Nutrivet as needed. You will also receive a bottle of vitamins with your puppy. Our Goldens are raised in a clean, safe property with our loving family. Our Goldens enjoy lots of sunshine and exercise. Our Goldens are exposed to other dogs and other animals, such as domestic rabbits. Our Goldens are veterinarian checked and will have all age-determined vaccinations Duvet Spectra 5, week 6 and worming before pick up. Just off I.Many customers make a memorable trip and enjoy the attractions in the Saratoga region when picking up their puppy to take home. Our Golden puppy online selection process in week six reservation 1 receives 1st pick, the 2 reservation gets 2nd pick and so forth. If necessary, our Golden 3 free boarding days after pick-up day. Standard boarding fee for extra days. Our Golden price is competitive with regional breeders. See price here. Online reservation deposit options include payment with any major credit card and Apple Pay. We will contact our waiting list once we have puppy litter news!
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. Check with local veterinarians' offices, animal shelters, pet supply stores, and other area pet business for referrals to dog rescue organizations in your area. Contact one local dog rescue group for referral to other area groups. Some dog rescue groups work with all dogs, while others are breed-specific. Most rescues groups have established networks with other area rescues. The organization's website also provides links to rescue organizations. Although the majority of dogs looking for new homes through rescue groups are adults, sometimes rescue groups have puppies to place. Most German Shepherds looking for homes through rescue groups do not have papers. If registering your puppy is important, or if you intend to enter it into competitions, you will need its title papers and health records, so a rescued dog may not be right for you. Many dog rescues will require a thorough application process in order to assure that you will be a good fit for the dog. Be prepared to disclose your address and whether you own your home, as well as your employment status and your philosophy when it comes to raising a dog. You will want to make sure that the dog's temperament works well with you and your family. Ask whether you can get the dog checked out by your veterinarian. You will want your vet to check the dog's general health and for serious conditions, such as heart murmurs. Be sure to ask about the dog's health while the rescue has had it and if it is up to date on shots and healthcare. A good rescue should actually offer this information upfront. Get a history of the dog's healthcare up to that point. Has it had its first vaccination, had heart worm treatment, and parasite control? These should have all been done before the age when a puppy is adoptable. While many rescue organizations cannot tell you much about the dogs they place, because the dogs have been rescued off the street or they have been given up anonymously, sometimes they have a bit of information. Get all the information you can about the dog's past so that you can assess their general background and health. Dog rescue organizations are usually run on a shoe-string budget. While they depend mostly on volunteers, they do need funds to transport and care for dogs. Your adoption fee will most likely help to pay for the rescue of other dogs in the future. 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? 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. Feeding and grooming 1. Traditional leather collars with an engraved tag are a popular choice. They can be personalised with up to 25 characters of information which will help someone return your pup to you. But here at Happy Puppy HQ, we love them! If your puppy reaches the end of their leash quite suddenly, a harness distributes the impact over a large area of predominantly muscle, rather than concentrating it on a small area of delicate throat tissues. And they make it easier to safely control your puppy during training. Travel Restraint Most people want to be able to travel with their dog. But there are some things to buy German Shepherd puppies that will make this easier. Puppies who travel unrestrained in vehicles can be somewhat mischievous however! It can be all too tempting to try and climb into your lap or your footwell, for a bit of attention. Furthermore, unrestrained dogs are more likely to sustain serious injuries in a collision. However, if your GSD puppy is a destructive chewer, this kind of crate might not last long. Another Alternative A great alternative is anchoring their harness securely to the seat belt plug. This will keep your puppy in place, and distribute the impact of a crash as safely as possibly over his body. So one of the things to buy a German Shepherd puppy is a leash. Young puppies are very receptive to new experiences, so teaching them to accept wearing a leash is easiest while they are still young. Most GSD puppy parents find that they need two types of leash. The Two Types First, a short lead for keeping their dog under close control near traffic and whilst walking on the sidewalk. Crate People tend to have mixed feelings about dog crates. But used responsibly, they have heaps of advantages. They can become a cosy den for your puppy, which he will learn to associate with being safe and relaxed in. They can make toilet training quicker and easier. And they prepare your dog for being unavoidable crating in the future, for example if they ever need to stay at the vet, or travel by air. Our crate training article is all about how to choose the best crate, and use it correctly. And this article is all about choosing the right size for a German Shepherd. So add some bedding to your list of things to buy a German Shepherd puppy! If you decide to move onto something more supportive as they grow up, our review of the best beds for German Shepherds will help you find the perfect next step. Many of them are available in standard crate sizes too — perfect for making the bottom of a crate as luxurious as can be! Puppies are curious, playful, and at times even total trouble-magnets! Creating a safe place in your home where you can leave them for a few moments to visit the bathroom or answer the door protects them from harm and gives you peace of mind. Your puppy zone should ideally have wipe clean floors in case of toilet accidents, and you should invest a little time teaching them to associate it with good things — by leaving treats in it for them to find, and returning their favorite toys there when they leave them lying around. Toys Like all puppies, German Shepherd pups have stacks of energy. So, toys should be a priority on your list of things to buy a German Shepherd puppy. They love to play, and playing plays a valuable role in developing their muscles, motor skills and coordination. In fact, GSDs have pretty tough teeth and jaws, even from a young age. So we recommend choosing toys designed with durability in mind. Food and Water Bowls All puppies need access to clean, fresh water. And whilst we recommend using most of their daily food allowance as rewards during training, you might also like to give them small meals in a bowl. In fact it is estimated that bloat causes the death of approximately 1 in 7 GSDs. Food Your puppy should come home with a modest supply of the food they were weaned onto by their breeder. This will minimize the possibility of them etting an upset tummy. Our article on the best diets for German Shepherd Dogs will give you some food for thought. Are they just the start of a slippery slope towards canine obesity? Well, we think treats have an important role to play in successful German Shepherd training! But the best way to capture a new behavior, or advance an established area of training to the next level, is by offering a high value food reward at first. Pieces of cooked chicken or small cubes of cheese are equally effective. Some we Like You may need to experiment with a few brands to find out which your GSD will work the hardest for. These basics belong in every dog owners kit: A brush, for removing loose hair, debris, matts and tangles — German Shepherds need their coats brushing at least two or three times a week. Shampoo, for when they roll in in something stinky. Toothbrush and Toothpaste These could be considered part of general grooming supplies. Medical procedures such as setting broken bones and corrective surgery for bloat cost several thousand dollars. Most insurance plans have the added bonus of including public liability cover. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. 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.
That, along with our unique puppy socialization program, makes a Cabin Hill Labradoodle the perfect companion for life. We also endorse and follow the protocols of "The Puppy Culture" program to help every puppy feel safe, loved, and confident. At Cabin Hill Labradoodles, we believe in giving your puppy the best start in life. As a proud member breeder of the Australian Labradoodle Association of America we are committed to the health, well-being, and development of the Australian Labradoodle. Our goal is to build lasting relationships with our families and support each puppy, dog, and family as they develop and grow. At Cabin Hill Labradoodles, all of our puppies are raised in our home as part of the family. This ensures that every puppy gets the best care, socialization, and interaction possible with lots of love and attention. All of our doodles are first and foremost members of our family that live, play, sleep, and eat in our home. We love our dogs and know that you will too! Our lists fill quickly, please contact us soon to learn more about our process and how you can bring a Cabin Hill puppy into your home! We DO have puppies that will be ready to join families very soon! Millie and Josie puppy will be ready for their new families in early September. Check out our available puppies and upcoming litters pages. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Deer Creek Comfort Dogs Shaping future companions for families and those in need of comfort Our family has been raising puppies for over 20 years. Our children have always had a passion for dogs which began our journey and now our grandchildren enjoy growing up with our wonderful dogs by their side. Deer Creek provides emotional support dogs, therapy dogs, service and therapy prospects, canine good citizen dogs as well as family pets. Deer Creek assists our families with puppy selection to help ensure the families get the puppy that will work well with their needs. Someone once said, "Acquiring a dog may be the only opportunity a human ever has to choose a relative" and we hope you choose one of ours. If you are interested in finding your new family member, fill out our puppy application and we will be thrilled to work with you. We recognize that our dogs have the capability of changing peoples' lives on a therapeutic level. Many of our Doodles have become therapy dogs at funeral homes, children's advocacy centers, hospitals and nursing homes, and others have found homes as anxiety, PTSD and emotional support dogs. Learn more about our nonprofit organization Deer Creek Paw Prints at www. Learn More Molly, Rhys, and Beau! Use tab to navigate through the menu items. We live approximately 35 minutes from downtown Nashville. As breeders, we choose which pair to breed depending on health and temperament before anything else. Our sires and dams have to pass their full panel breed specific genetic health testing before being bred. All vaccines on parents are administered by our vet. Having healthy parents is the first step to breeding healthy pups. From the time dam is bred, she is put immediately on puppy food to get the litter off to the proper nutrition. Dam and pups are watched over throughout the whole birthing process. Pups are given supplements as soon as they would like. This helps the dam with feeding while giving the pups food to help them continue growing properly. Pups are dewormed on a regular schedule and vaccinated before leaving. Pups are litter box trained and start learning the doggie door. They are well socialized and raised around children as young as 2 years old. Play time is important for pups for early socialization skills. Because of this our fur babies play areas both have electricity with heat and air conditioning. Their play areas also have doggy doors installed to continue their house training to go outside to use the bathroom. This gets them off to a proper start for their new families. As raising new members of your household, it is just as important to us that your pup have a healthy start as it is to you. Mini Labradoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Comparison Two dog breeds, one purpose: to make your life a joy-filled journey powered by strong bonds, friendship, and unconditional love. Meet the Mini Labradoodle and the Mini Sheepadoodle. Two very adorable and friendly dogs with upbeat personalities, the Mini Labradoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle make the perfect addition to any lucky family. Your way of life, hobbies, and work schedule are all important factors that can help determine which of the two dog breeds is a good fit for your lifestyle.Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? They are fun, easygoing, and gentle. Mini Labradoodles enjoy canine games like chase, fetch, and Frisbee, and thrive on cuddles and love. Energetic, friendly, and full of life, the Mini Labradoodles make wonderful jogging and hiking companions. They are known to enjoy a good swim, a long stroll, and are very fond of adventures. The Mini Labradoodle puppies are happy, energetic, and bright bundles of joy. They are loving and eager to please, love to play and cuddle, and are excellent training students. A cross between Labrador Retrievers and Mini or Toy Poodles, the Mini Labradoodle may take after one parent breed or the other in appearance or they may have their own unique look with an added bonus of a hypoallergenic coat. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Nashville Tennessee and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Nashville TN? We have answers. Give me an overview of Labradoodle puppies for sale in Nashville TN. Australian Labradoodles are different from American Labradoodles, which only have Poodle and Labrador Retriever parents. Australian Labradoodles have six parent breeds, and each breed was chosen to pass down specific traits. These days, many people think the Labradoodle is the ultimate family dog. Start by searching for a Labradoodle Nashville in the network, browse the litters, and find a puppy that looks perfect for you. Then just connect with your preferred business or breeder and arrange to meet your new puppy. After that, get ready to welcome your new Labradoodle puppy into your home! Of course you can, and there is nothing wrong with shelters. But many people choose to use the Uptown Network when they are looking for a very specific type of dog. For example, if you are searching for Nashville Labradoodle puppies for sale and you have a particular color in mind, it may be easier to use our network. What makes Uptown Puppies different from getting a puppy somewhere else? While lots of people want to visit the breeder in person, many cannot. We take transparency very seriously when it comes to breeding Labradoodle puppies for sale Nashville. All the Nashville Labradoodle breeders and companies in the network have been screened to ensure they meet high ethical standards of breeding. How can I meet my new Nashville Labradoodle for sale? Once you find the perfect puppy, simply connect with the breeder or company and ask them about making travel arrangements for your pup. One of the great things about all the Labradoodle breeders in Nashville in our network is that they are experts in arranging puppy travel, and they will explain the best way to proceed. Can I find cheap Labradoodle puppies in Nashville here? The Labradoodle breeders Nashville in our network do not set out to provide the cheapest pups. Instead, what you will find is Labradoodle puppies Nashville that have been bred to incredibly high standards. They all come from ethical breeders that provide a boutique experience, giving you complete peace of mind. Can I find Labradoodles for sale in Nashville available now? Start searching and see what you can find today! Are Labradoodles suitable if I have other pets already? Yes, Labradoodles get on great with most other pets, including both dogs and cats. They are known for being friendly, sociable, and playful dogs, and they tend to get on great with everyone. It always depends on the individual personality and temperament of the dog in question, but in general they are fine around other animals. Do Labradoodles need a lot of exercise? That means a good walk each day of about half an hour should be fine. They will probably be happy with more, though, because they love going out. But compared to some other breeds, they do not need too much exercise to keep them healthy.
Accidents are expected, especially for puppies. Luckily, the French bulldog is a clean breed that avoids accidents, so consistent training will have yours eliminating solely outside in a matter of weeks. Step 1 Create a schedule with regular eating and potty times. The Humane Society recommends taking your dog outside immediately after waking up, after playing and after eating or drinking. Remove food between meals so your dog knows to eat when food is available. Remove your dog's water dish at least two hours before bedtime. Step 2 Confine your frenchie if you can't provide supervision. Limit your dog to a crate or small blocked-off area. Frenchies are a clean breed and will avoid eliminating in their sleeping area. Puppies under 12 weeks old do not have complete bladder control and can hold waste only for the same number of hours as his age in months plus 1, according to the ASPCA. Step 3 Watch for warning signs that your French bulldog needs to potty. Warning signs include circling the room, pacing from room to room, sniffing, whining, barking or simply staring. If you see these warning signs, immediately take your frenchie outside to eliminate. Wait until the dog is completely finished or he may finish in the house. Step 5 Clean indoor accidents thoroughly to eliminate urine and feces odors. If your dog smells waste in the house, he is likely to frequent this spot to go potty. If your frenchie poops in the home, place the feces in the appropriate area of the yard so your dog smells it next time he goes outside. Step 6 Take your dog outside on a leash and bring him to the same spot every time. This helps your frenchie become aware of approved potty areas. More Articles. French Bulldog yawning. The earlier you start, the more effective it will be. That said, consistency is a crucial factor in training your French Bulldog. For your pup to understand that you want them to go potty outside every time they need to go, you must teach that skill every opportunity you get. As a result, training should begin at a convenient time for you and your dog. You can choose a time when both of you have the energy to train. In no time, your Frenchie will be accustomed to this routine and expect it to happen daily. Make it a part of your daily routine. French Bulldog stretching front legs. Structure a Set Routine Starting a new routine requires you to be consistent, and the best way to ensure this is by sticking to some rules and regulations. Make it a habit—wake up, feed your French Bulldog, and take them outside for bathroom breaks. Over time, your French Bulldog will make the connection and anticipate their potty breaks every morning. With consistency, this becomes a natural habit in their mind. French Bulldog on a leash at the park. Crate Training Your Frenchie Crate training is a great way to make potty training your Frenchie easier. It helps your Frenchie understand that the potty area and bed space are different. Securing your puppy inside a crate will make your Frenchie understand that they have to hold in their pee. Since this breed is hygienic by nature, your dog will not want to urinate where they sleep. Instead, they will hold their pee until they are let out again. Additionally, you need to confine your French Bulldog when you cannot accompany them. Take them out for potty breaks before you leave the house. And ensure you know how long they can hold in their pee before getting anxious. This is where they can go when they need to use the bathroom. This type of box is ideal for puppies and makes it easier for them to learn how to use the bathroom. Artificial grass can be used for dog potty area covering. Utilize Puppy Pee Pads Puppy pads are an excellent way to help your puppy understand where to go potty. Knowing the differences between your furniture and the floor will help your Frenchie understand that this is where they need to use the bathroom. You may consider placing a few puppy pads in the house and gradually moving them towards the door. This way, your puppy will eventually go on their own, not just when you take them out. A sad French Bulldog is lying on the floor. Use Treats as a Reward Using training treats as a reward will help your puppy make the connection that peeing outside is a positive skill. Remember to use food treats and not to overdo them. While treats are helpful to encourage your puppy to go out for potty breaks, using dog treats can make your puppy expect rewards whenever they do something good. You should reward your Frenchie with treats only when you take them outside or after they use the bathroom in their potty area. Slowly decrease the frequency of rewards as your puppy gets used to its new routine. A French Bulldog eating an apple, while looking up. Consistency is Key Puppy training may seem difficult at first, but as you continue with it, your Frenchie will learn and be able to adjust to their new way of living. The most important thing to remember is that you should always be there for your puppy and guide them along the way. Be there to guide them through the process and make it a fun activity for you both. You should never scold or force your puppy. Puppies can get anxious when forced into doing something. They need to understand the importance of this routine and be able to do it independently. Even so, try not to use force if they are not cooperating. What is a fluffy Frenchie? The more you practice, the easier it will be. Take your time, and start with small goals. While it can be hard, patience is crucial when potty training your Frenchie. French Bulldog puppy standing on the grass. You should also pay attention to signs they need to use the bathroom. Here are some of the most common signals you should look for: Running in circles. Hi Becca, Congrats on the new pup! Some can take up to months to be completely trained for going outside. We know, not the greatest! Thank you February 4, Frankie Hi there, thanks for your comment! Unfortunately, when it comes to potty training, it is all about patience, positive reinforcement, and repetitive habits. Keep persisting. REPLY February 15, Anthony My frenchie uses the restroom when I take him out but he has the small tiny accidents in the house when he gets scared or excited. For example, if we play or right before I pick him up he gets scared when I pick him up. He does his business outside no problem. Goes to the door and hits the bell with his nose. But the last 2 evenings he does his zoomie around the house and we are finding pee. Even though he knows to go outside. It is just happening once in the evening. Any reason why he might be doing this all of a sudden? March 4, Frankie Hey Cristina, Thanks for checking out the website! There are a number of reasons that could trigger a behavior like this, anxiety or stress is one, for example. Sometimes if you are separated from your pup more than usual or they are getting less stimulation than they need they could do this to act out. All the best! She was pretty good about learning the pee pad at 8 weeks and then we went backwards. She went into eating her pee pads and newspapers. That set us back quite a bit. Any tips? She also likes to eat her poop. We clean up when we see her pooping or as soon as we find it. Crate training has been considered but she pees in her crate, on blankets and had a rough experience with her crate coming home. March 4, Frankie Hey Emilia, Thanks for sharing your challenges. They can be quite stubborn. You may feel like they are never going to get there, then all of sudden it will click. Just be patient, provide positive reinforcement, stay consistent with commands, and they will get there. If possible, staying at home with them for a week or two could accelerate things so you can set boundaries and create positive habits. When do I take the pads away from his crate. Thank you for March 4, Frankie Hey Chelle! There is no perfect timing for this. Good luck! I take her out all day and before bed and maybe she pees 2 times. What do I do? She is ruining every rug in the house! I scold her when I catch her and praise with a treat outside. She just stares at me like what? We love her … March 4, Frankie Hey Mindy! That sounds frustrating… It may be worthwhile getting an expert trainer to help you out or chatting with your vet. The only your pup gets the harder it will be to train them. With that being said, they can still learn habits at 2 years old. Try to avoid the negative scolding, and instead pick her up and place her where she should pee as she is doing it. Positive reinforcement when she does the right thing is always good. You could also try out an indoor grass mat or pee mat to bridge the training gap. In the end, patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement will get you there! REPLY March 15, Ksenya Our puppy female is 8 months old and most of the time she can hold for about 4 hours during the day and 8 hours at night. But with me, last month she jumped on the couch and peed on the blanket while looking at me, which was 30 minutes after she went outside. And yesterday I was lying on the couch, she jumped up and peed on the couch right beside my leg while looking at me, which was an hour after we walked. March 15, Frankie Oh no! That sounds like a real challenge… It does sound like she is acting out for some reason. At one point when Frankie was fully trained, about the same age, she would stare straight at us and pee on the bathroom mat after we got home from work. She knew it was wrong, but it was like she was acting out. We found that a timeout immediately at the time of the misbehavior worked well. He has been peeing and pooing on pads as and when he wants. I live in an apartment in a high rise so i time his pee and poo breaks to every 4 hours. He pees fine but pooing is so irregular and he has accidents on his bed. When he is outside, he gets distracted so easily a little wind or leaf blowing in the distance gets his attention. When he pees, I use the potty command and praise him tremendously with toilet break only special treats. I really need some advice on whether im doing something wrong or whether this is normal. I kind of feel like he resents me taking him out for toilet break however really enjoys it when we go outside for walking purposes and he gets to do what he wants. HELP please I really want him to learn how to go outside and need some sound realistic advice. April 2, Will Blunt Hey Nura, Have you considered using a grass mat can be fake grass inside as a transition? Unfortunately, potty training is not a perfect science, and it requires lots of persistence. The only thing you could add in is to use a mat which is easier for clean up and use this area to move him whenever he has an accident. I thought her to ring the bell but she only does it when we are at the door and I gave her treats every time she went potty outside. Please help! Have you considered getting a grass pad inside to begin transitioning them? Some Frenchies can take up to 8 months to be completely trained for going outside. My puppy has just turned 9 months. She is amazing throughout the day until it comes to potty training at night. She is still pooing on the pad or floor and not going dry all through. We have tried everything and not sure what else we can do. Each dog is different. Yes, 9 months is on the longer side, and if it concerns you perhaps you could run your tactics by a vet to see if there are any improvements you could make? There is every chance your pup is feeling the pressure and some of this could be related to psychological anxiety issues , not necessarily a physical inability. April 19, Taisia Hi, I am preparing to welcome a 9 week old frenchie into my family at the end of this month. Is that too young to start potty training? I confined him with 2 pee trays for a week to get used to it but then when i placed the pee tray in a big area, he still peed and pooped on the floor instead of going to the pee tray — even though the pee tray had pee pads absorbed with his pee. Please help me. Some Frenchies can take up to months to be fully potty trained. The most important thing is to maintain consistency, reward the right behavior, and be persistent. How often should we usher him out during the day and at night? We are at the beginning of this process. You also want to avoid creating a habit of needing to go too much. Start fairly small with hourly visits, and then slowly build on this and extending the time out. May 26, Shannon O'Brien Hey, I have a 10 month old Frenchie and he is great at everyone except the most frustrating, toilet training! I seem to struggle a lot with him going outside to the bathroom. I have some amazing days where he will go when I go on schedule to the toilet or when he needs to go outside he will bark at the door. But other days he is horrible! He will do many accidents inside. I also struggle with him through out the night I take him to the bathroom before bed and as soon as we wake up. But he always seems to have accidents inside! This is becoming very frustrating and please if you have any tips that you could give me to break his habit of doing it inside it was be appreciated. When Claude first came into our life, my wife and I honestly could only compare to having a baby again! Learning how to potty train our French bulldog puppy was hard work, took time, but in end… worked. In this guide I am going to share the mistakes we made, how we got him toilet trained properly, how long it took, how long it should take, how hard it is, how long they can hold their pee, and what techniques and products we used to get there in the end. How to potty train a French Bulldog? To potty train a French bulldog puppy successfully you need to take him outside or to his mat as soon as you see him starting to pee. Once he has finished, give him praise and a treat. French bulldog potty toilet training techniques Just like a child and they are just like naughty kids , potty training your Frenchie involves teaching them the routine of knowing when they need to use the bathroom and toilet. Once these French bulldog puppy training techniques have been repeated enough, the puppy will know what to do when they need the toilet and they will use everything that you have taught them in order to let you know that they are ready to go out. There are several different methods you can use to make sure you are teaching your dog the absolute right ways to potty train them in the safest and easiest way possible. The great thing about French bulldogs is that they are a clean breed that does their best to avoid having accidents, so if you have a set training schedule your dog or puppy will be up to date with their training in only the matter of a few short weeks. The 5 steps and potty-training schedule The first thing you should do is set a regular schedule for your French bulldog puppy. This will help them know when to expect their time to go out. Step 1. Schedule regular and consistent potty breaks You should take your puppy out first in the morning when you both wake up, after playing for a long period of time, and after eating dinner and drinking from their bowl. This is how we did it, and how we got there in the end. Step 2. Watch for the signs that they need the toilet Once you get acquainted with your French bulldog, you will be able to see the oncoming signs of them having to go to the bathroom. Some of these warning signs are fairly obvious, such as pacing around the room in a circle, pacing back and forth from the same rooms, whining at you, barking loudly, sniffing around you, and staring you dead in the eye. Step 3. Take them to their potty-training pads or outside If your bulldog is exhibiting any of these signs, then you should immediately assume that going to the bathroom is their top priority and get them to the potty pads or outside. This is where puppy training pads come in — and I recommend the best ones lower down this page. Step 4. Step 5. Reward them for success Once your puppy has finished going to the toilet, you should reward them with a treat. This will positively reinforce the good behaviour and lead to quicker results. Items You Will Need for Potty Training To properly train your French bulldog puppy, there are certain items you should have that will make the process easier. Pet training puppy pads When we first brought Claude home, we used puppy pads in his crate. This works two-fold. Firstly, they are scented, but secondly you can use them as the area for them to relieve themselves on. You can buy pet training puppy pads on Amazon. Decent dog leash It almost goes without saying but will obviously need a leash so that you can walk the dog to the proper toilet location if going into an unsecured outdoor area. Dog treats for rewards You will also need treats to positively reinforce your puppy for going to the bathroom when you tell them to. Toys will also help to positively reinforce your puppy into thinking that they are doing good with their potty training. In the crate we placed the training pads in one half, with his bed to sleep on in the other half. We bought a larger crate view which crate we recommend that we needed for his size at the time, as knew we would need it still on certain occasions as he grew older. I would also recommend you equip yourself with cleaning rags and an enzymatic cleaner to rid your house of the unpleasant aroma. Further tips on potty training including the psychology! You really need to know your dog on a personal level and understand their mindset. The puppy may learn to hold their defecation in for a longer period of time so they can squeeze some more outdoors time with you. Claude is now successfully trained to go to the toilet outside. If you are not home with your puppy at points during the potty-training phase, it would be a good idea to make sure your French bulldog is put into a restricted area, but also making sure that they are comfortable and have enough room to move around freely. Like previously mentioned, French bulldogs are a mostly clean breed that will avoid going to the bathroom in certain areas, such as where they sleep every night. If you find that your new Frenchie has had an accident inside the house, make sure you clean the area fiercely and thoroughly to get the smell out. If the dog continues to smell that smell, they might think it is okay to go in that same spot in the future. If you find that your Frenchie has unleashed one of his loads inside your house, you should gather the poop up in a small bag and deposit it in the part of the yard that you want your dog to go in. Their nose will become accustomed to the smell in that particular area and they will have an instinct to go to the bathroom in that spot of the yard. To make sure your French bulldog knows which areas are acceptable for going to the bathroom and which ones are not, be sure to take your puppy to the same area for a significant length of time. Once your bulldog learns that said area is acceptable for going to the bathroom, you can move on to a different area. Your bulldog will learn to remember which areas area acceptable bathroom spots and which ones they should steer clear from. This can actually make them more nervous, and lead to even more mess. Not only will these behaviours scare your dog and ruin their relationship with you, but they will also hinder the potty-training process and they could be aggressive towards you. You should also avoid using any cleaners that come with a scent of ammonia. Urine contains high acidic amount of ammonia. If your puppy smells this, they will most likely use this area in the house as a spot for going to the bathroom. How long to potty train a French bulldog? This is where I want to set you some realistic expectation. Whilst we started training Claude to go outside to the toilet from day 1, it took us 6 months until he stopped having accidents inside. Yes, he was stilling using the training mats regularly indoors, but to be honest, I think we should have just avoided using those altogether, and just focussed on his outdoor routine. It took us around 6 months to potty train Claude the Frenchie puppy. So, if you have ever wondered how long it should take to potty train a French bulldog puppy, all I can do is give you our personal experience. It took him 6 months so up to his 9-month birthday before he was fully trained. Are French bulldog easy to potty train? Are French Bulldogs hard to potty train? It can be hard and will take time. However with perseverance and commitment you will be able to fully toilet train your Frenchie. Our personal experience of toilet training I remember taking Claude to puppy socialisation training at 8 months old, and him peeing on the floor in front of all the other puppies. I was like an embarrassed parent! And this was despite the fact all the other puppy breeds were the same age as him. He got there in the end though! How long can a French bulldog hold its pee? How long a Frenchie can hold its pee and bladder will very much depend on their age. For example, a fully-grown French Bulldog can hold its pee for around 8 to 10 hours. French Bulldog puppies can hold their pee for a maximum of 4 hours. They will be peeing a lot in your house until completely toilet trained. My French Bulldog is still not toilet trained This is a common problem by owners of adult French Bulldogs who are not toilet trained. If you cannot get your adult Frenchie to hold their pee and stop peeing indoors and have exhausted all of the advice in this guide, I would recommend you seek the support of a pet behaviour specialist. Conclusion If you and your Frenchie pup have a strong enough level of respect and trust, this can go a long way, and the process will be loads quicker and easier than you ever even imagined. French Bulldog potty training can be achieved by reinforcing good behaviour and setting up routines and rewards you can minimize the amount of accidents that are going to happen on your brand-new rug. Just be patient with him and in no time at all you will know how to potty train a French bulldog and get the results you and him want. Learn more » Small dogs are notoriously hard to potty train. Potty training a French Bulldog can seem daunting, but with patience, consistency, and the right approach, it can be a smooth process. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step plan to successfully potty train your French Bulldog. French Bulldogs are known for their stubbornness, but they are also eager to please their owners. Recognizing these traits can inform your training approach. Before starting the training, set up an environment conducive to learning. Choose a specific outdoor spot for your dog to eliminate and keep the indoor area clean to discourage accidents. Invest in essential supplies like a quality leash, treats for positive reinforcement, and cleaning supplies for any accidents. Establish a Routine Start by taking your French Bulldog to the designated potty area. Let them sniff around and get familiar with the site. Establish a routine by taking your dog out to the potty area first thing in the morning, last thing at night, and after meals or naps. Puppies may need to go out every 2 hours or so. Image Credit: Irina Nedikova, Shutterstock 3. Use a consistent word or phrase each time. Provide Positive Reinforcement Immediately after your dog has finished eliminating, reward them with praise, a treat, or a favorite toy. Make sure the reward is immediate, so they associate it with the correct behavior. Image Credit: Jonathan Borba, Unsplash 5. Indoor Supervision When indoors, keep an eye on your dog for signs they need to go outside. These could include sniffing around, circling, or whining. Try to take your dog out one last time before bed to reduce the chances of overnight accidents. Clean up any mess right away to remove the smell and discourage your dog from using the same spot in the future. If accidents are happening regularly, consider what might be causing them. You might need to adjust your routine or consult with a vet to rule out any medical issues. Image credit: etonastenka, Shutterstock 7. Gradual Independence As your dog gets older and better at controlling their bladder, you can gradually increase the time between potty breaks. Start giving your dog more freedom around the house under less supervision. Advanced Training Techniques Crate training can be an effective potty-training tool. Bell training involves teaching your dog to ring a bell when they need to go outside. This requires patience and consistency but can be very useful. They can provide personalized advice and strategies. Image Credit: hedgehog94, Shutterstock Other Things to Keep in Mind During the Training Process Potty training a French Bulldog, like any other breed , is a process that involves a learning curve for both the dog and the owner. Here are some other things to keep in mind. Unsuccessful Early Days In the early days of training, your puppy will not have much bladder control. Expect to take them out every 1—2 hours, as well as after meals, naps, and play sessions. During this period, accidents are frequent. This is a sign that your consistent training efforts are paying off. Image Credit: Tienuskin, Shutterstock Setbacks Setbacks are common during the potty-training process. Your French Bulldog might have several good days followed by a day with multiple accidents. This is normal and does not mean your training efforts have failed. Consistency Is Key Throughout the training process, consistency is key. The more consistent you are with your routine and responses, the quicker your French Bulldog will understand what is expected of them. Fear and Confusion Yelling or punishing your French Bulldog when they have an accident can create fear and confusion. Negative Association Punishing your dog for accidents can lead them to associate elimination with negative experiences. This can result in dogs becoming afraid to eliminate in front of you, even outside. They might start hiding or sneaking away to go to the bathroom, making the problem worse. Image Credit: Alice Rodnova, Shutterstock Stress and Anxiety Harsh reactions can cause stress and anxiety in dogs, which can actually increase the likelihood of accidents. Damage to Relationship Yelling and punishment can damage your relationship with your French Bulldog. It can break down the trust between you and your dog, making them less likely to want to please you — a key motivator in dog training. Instead of resorting to yelling and punishment, opt for positive reinforcement methods. When your dog eliminates in the correct spot, reward them with praise, treats, or a favorite toy. If they have an accident indoors, calmly clean it up and return to your regular routine. Image Credit: Stefan C. A: You can start potty training as soon as you bring your puppy home, usually around 8 weeks of age. Q: How long does it take to potty train a French Bulldog? A: On average, it takes 4—6 months to fully potty train a French Bulldog, but every dog is different. Q: My French Bulldog keeps having accidents. What am I doing wrong? A: Frequent accidents could be due to a variety of factors like insufficient breaks, medical issues, or stress. Q: Can adult French Bulldogs be potty trained? Conclusion Potty training a French Bulldog requires patience, consistency, and understanding. While it can be challenging, the reward of a well-trained dog makes the effort worthwhile. We hope our tips and tricks in this guide help make potty training your French Bulldog easier.
A Frenchie could be the best choice for you! Our sires and dams are producing some of the most beautiful and rare French bulldog puppies for sale. All of our Sires and Dams are 4 panel health clear and have had both genetic health screening as well as color testing. If you are searching for the best breeders for your next best friend, make sure they are raised in their home, not from a puppy mill or Amish puppy farm. Remember the saying, you get what you pay for. Frenchie Puppies near me Designer French Bulldog puppies are stunning in conformation for structure and size. There is such variation these days in the quality and structure of the dog itself can look many different ways. Being Frenchie breeders, we see some French bulldogs that look more like Boston Terriers, long legged, skinny bone structure, projected snouts, little to no wrinkles etc. When you purchase from us, you are purchasing what we believe a Frenchie should be in genetics, looks, health and temperament. If you are searching only for Frenchie breeders near me, you are going to restrict yourself to quite a bit of high quality programs. Keep in mind that most higher level Frenchie Breeders near me can send their pups with nannies direct to you. Having a puppy that is raised underfoot by our family, with our kids, including a toddler sets your next best friend up for behavioral success. Did you know that all of our adult male and females carry the short back and shorter leg genes and have all tested 4 panel health clear? You will not receive a giraffe from DFB! Remember cheap is expensive. Frenchie puppy for sale When you purchase a frenchie puppy for sale from us, expect nothing but the best. Our focus starts with temperament, compact size and proper structure as well as rare colors and combinations. For peace of mind, every French Bulldog puppy for sale from Designer Frenchies comes with a AKC papers, a full health guarantee against any genetic conditions as well as up to date vaccinations with vet record. French Bulldog breeders near me Training your pup starts here with the Frenchie Breeders. We start to train our puppies to use puppy pads at age weeks old. By doing this it sets your new pup up for housebreaking success. Believe it or not, this is a huge benefit for their forever owners. As sad as it sounds, these dogs are typically raised in cages from puppy mills and allowed to relieve themselves right in their own cage which typically has a wire bottom, and a tray underneath to catch feces. Because these pups are not setup for success and are a nightmare to housebreak if they ever are even housebroken! Why are quality frenchie puppies near me so pricey? There are a few factors including the cost of the parents, usually in our case k per dog. Secondly, the cost of the c section, reproductive veterinary care including progesterone tests before breeding, and before birth of the puppies. Third would probably be the cost of the equipment, incubators, oxygen concentrators, whelping boxes. Last but not least is our supplements, goats milk and vitamin regiment for both mom, dad and pups. Chances are you are going to spend triple that on vet bills and probably will not have the same experience as if you had owned a healthy pup. Frenchie breeders near me will be able to send your pup with a nanny direct to your airport or even your doorstep. French Bulldogs for sale Why are Frenchies so pricey when compared to other breeds. Well, there are a few variables that add up to why they are considered expensive. On average, the French Bulldog for sale cost to produce one quality litter involves the cost of the parents. Veterinary bills add up to over 10k per litter at times and on average will cost at least k. This is all before any costs associated with pups is even included. But there is no way to quantify the perfect Frenchie puppies for sale and that is a fact! Frenchie Puppy Colors Depending on what color you are looking for will dictate the cost of your pup. Frenchie Prices Pricing normally depends on the color and coat type. Our pups start around ad up with most being sold as pets. For Full AKC registration for breeders there is an additional fee. Most of the time when people call or email looking for a blue, then end up wanting a blue Merle or Lilac. Remember, a Blue French Bulldog is going to be a little darker in color than Lilac and that pups typically darken up a tad as they get older. Because pups are born we often cannot tell the blues from the lilacs apart for some time. For this reason, getting the pups DNA tested is important for those that are the best Frenchie breeders. Rare French Bulldog colors With colors abundant, we are sure to offer the best quality French bulldog puppy for sale options anywhere. Looking for something more common? Because some of our Frenchie puppies for sale are available in standard colors like Lilac, Blue, Black and tan and more. The best Frenchie Puppies for sale Our designer Frenchie puppies are typically available throughout the year and sold by our waiting list. Also, when we have consecutive litters there is a chance we have pups that are available within a few weeks it just depends on the time of the year. Some people wonder how long it takes to buy a French Bulldog puppy for sale after joining our waiting list and it is normally months from the time you join our puppy waiting list. Lastly, by placing a deposit, you can guarantee yourself a French bulldog for sale from the next litter. Frenchie for sale Finding the right Frenchie for sale is not easy. Sure, it may seem easy but the internet nowadays is filled with scams! Amish puppy mill born Frenchie for sale and tons of low quality back yard Frenchie Breeders. Think about the next years. And with that, the health and confirmation to breed standard of the puppies born. More often than not, breeders take deposits within the last 2 weeks before the litter is born. Secondly, once the pups are here they sell extremely fast. Though you probably want your new Frenchie puppy in arms today, waiting a few weeks to ensure you get the right new family member could ensure you get the pup you deserve. These days you can a find low quality puppy mill Frenchie puppy for sale online thats available, and cheap. It may not actually look like a quality french bull dog puppy but it will be available now. Last but not lease, impulse buys with pups are probably some of the worst decisions one can make, so be patient and find the right dog! Rare French Bulldog colors Frenchies come in so many different colors, color combinations and coat types! Below we will explain some of the colors offered by us here and some of the more common colors which we rarely have. Breeding for the newest and most exciting colors is something that consistently keeps us engaged in the future of Frenchie Breeders. Blue French bulldog for sale Our blue designer Frenchie puppies are typically available throughout the year and sold by our waiting list. Some people wonder how long it takes to buy a blue French Bulldog after joining our waiting list and it is normally months from the time you join our puppy waiting list. Lastly, by placing a deposit, you can guarantee yourself a blue pup from the next litter! Lilac Frenchie From the moment they are born Lilacs and blues look nearly identical. As the get older, the lilac shade is lighter in color and visually reflects light noticeably more than blue which is darker. When you have blue merles or lilac merles, the lilacs are always a few shades lighter in color overall. More often than not, since the Isabella color is so rare, Frenchie breeders take pup deposits within the last 2 weeks before the litter is born. Secondly, once the pups are here they sell extremely fast and even faster if the color is rare. Fluffy French Bulldog Puppies Finding a fluffy frenchie for sale can be even harder because they are the rarest of the breed. Fluffy French bulldog puppies are typically sold for .The fluffy coat type is a long-haired frenchie so to speak. These furry or long-haired french bulldogs are really cute and cuddly. How cute is a fluffy? Well, first of all, how cute is a Frenchie? Now make it furry! Merle Frenchies Looking for something so unique that there is NO two of a kind on earth? Consider the Merle patterned frenchy! A Merle French bulldog for sale or merle frenchie puppies are some of the cutest and coolest looking of all the dogs on earth! Depending on the color of the coat of the pup to begin with there are so many varieties of Merle French bulldogs, like the blue merle and lilac merle. Big Rope Frenchies The next big thing? Do we offer big rope French Bulldog for sale? It depends on your definition of the big rope itself. We are working with big rope females that have been bred to be super compact with proper structure. From time to time we may have a big rope Frenchie puppy for sale but normally they would be sold ahead of time with an early reservation. The best way to get the color and coat type that you want is to make a deposit so that you have a place in line for the next available pup that fits your need list! Our Frenchies for sale Fly! Designer Frenchies for sale come from some of the best lines in the world. Pups are paid in full before being picked up, or leaving on a flight with a Nanny to their furever destination. French Bulldog puppies - Health Guaranteed All Designer French Bulldog puppies come with a full health and genetic condition guarantee. Our parents and grandparents are all 4 Panel DNA health clear. We breed for shorter bodies and legs, not long legged giraffes. We are proud that all of our Frenchie puppies for sale are raised in our home with our children, under foot. Every single French Bulldog puppy are well socialized and you can expect a playful, smart, inquisitive and loving professional Snuggle Bug. Available Puppies Notification List. Life Span Did You Know? While the name of this breed is the French Bulldog, their origins cannot be credited to only France. One of the facts about French Bulldogs is that the idea and reason for the creation of the breed originated in England. This adorable dog breed, which has always been meant to be a companion, started as a miniature version of the English Bulldog. This mini-version accompanied lace workers across the English Channel and into France during the Industrial Revolution. Once the dog breed became prominent in France, the subsequent successful crossbreeding of the English Bulldog, Pug, and Terrier led to the creation of the modern-day Frenchie. The French Bulldog we know today originally came to the United States with groups of wealthy Americans who came across them and fell in love while touring Europe in the late s. The French Bulldog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in and is a member of the non-sporting group. The French Bulldog is an easygoing, affectionate, and playful dog that loves their family and gets along well with children. They also love to make new friends, which means they get along well with other dogs, animals, and people. Intelligent and affectionate, this small dog breed certainly wins over hearts and earns its status as a popular companion dog. Frenchies are not known to bark much, unless you train them into it, but they are naturally alert and make excellent watchdogs. As long as they are well-socialized and trained, they tend to have an open and friendly nature. The Frenchie is a highly adaptable dog that pretty much adapts to any living situation that includes plenty of love and attention. Being a short-snouted, snub-nosed dog breed, they do not tolerate heat very well and are also sensitive to cold. This tends to make them one of the dog breeds that hate winter and you will want to make sure to bundle them up to stay warm while out on cold winter walks. Because Frenchies bond closely with their families and thrive on attention from them, they do not tolerate long periods of time alone. They can also be prone to developing separation anxiety if they are poorly socialized or you do not work with them on this when they are young. Potential health concerns to be aware of in French Bulldogs can include cataracts, cherry eye, and entropion. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances. Heart and joint certifications are recommended for this breed. Playful and happy, the French Bulldog is a great fit for a novice dog owner. They are sweet-tempered, eager to please, and eager to train. Occasionally, Frenchies can be stubborn and they do tend to have big personalities. Although this can sometimes be a challenge for first-time dog owners, it can usually be overcome with consistent and patient training. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training. Standard coat colors for Frenchies are Brindle, Cream, Fawn, and combinations of these. They have a short coat that will shed a little year-round. Nail trims once or twice a month keep nails from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks, along with careful cleanings as needed, can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, the Frenchie is more prone to developing gum disease. Daily dental care plus cleanings at the vet as needed can help prevent this and other painful dental diseases later in life. You will also need to take care of the wrinkles. Frenchies have hereditary face wrinkles and it is important to keep them clean and dry to prevent skin irritation or possible infection. The French Bulldog is an easygoing companion breed. They can be one of the laziest dog breeds that are couch potatoes. Frenchies will often be energetic when they play and will try to match their activity to yours. So, if you live a more active lifestyle, you need to be careful that your French Bulldog is not overexerting themselves trying to keep up with you. As a Brachycephalic or snub-nosed dog, they cannot cool themselves as easily and are extra sensitive to heat. They can also get winded easily, so be aware of this when playing with your dog or puppy and watch for signs of overexertion. There are safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs and you can work with your vet on specifics for your Frenchie if needed. French Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Frenchies generally live for years on average. With this dog breed being so popular, there are plenty of celebrities who have chosen the French Bulldog as their companion, which also means there are plenty of famous Frenchies out there. Also, French Bulldogs cannot swim, at least without a life vest. They can be taught to swim while wearing one, but they should never be left unattended around bodies of water or swimming pools and require constant supervision while in the water. Featured French Bulldog Article.
golden retriever puppy plush - The boxer is thought to be related to the Tibetan fighting dogs and, by some accounts, even the German Bullenbeissers. This breed became famous for its fighting prowess in the s and was officially acknowledged by the AKC in .The Blue heeler is a mysterious breed. According to some accounts, its ancestors may have been a cross between the Collies and Dingos. The credit for this cross-breeding has been allotted to numerous people throughout history and ages. It will have a strong and lean muscular body, just like the Boxer. The coat on it will depend on the genes of the dominant breed. The coat may also be weather resistant if it takes after its Blue Heeler side. Apart from this, the data on the Boxer Heeler is limited because of its rarity. The males should generally have a height range of 18 to 25 inches, while the females should have 15 to 23 inches of height. The weight range for males can be 35 to 80 lbs, while for females, it may be 20 to 60 lbs. This wide range for weight is dependent on the dominancy of the genes. This value may change depending on the dominant blood. The value may also be extended with the help of exercises and a good diet. This is a generally affordable breed when compared to its parents. The Boxer Heeler is also very affectionate and friendly with people of the household, including various pets. It is also very intelligent, just like the Boxer, and will be trained easily if it takes after its Boxer parent. It may also be very energetic if it takes after its Blue Heeler parent. It may also be slightly violent to trespassing humans, including children. It should be trained and socialized properly. The problem with that is that the Boxer Heeler is generally stubborn because of its Blue Heeler side. This means that you may have a hard time having it trained. This breed is not for first-timers. Caring for Box Heeler You already know how awesome the Boxer Heeler is, and you know that it will love you. Now it is your turn to return that love by caring for it the right way. Box Heeler Nutrition The Boxer wheeler is a semi-large breed with moderate activity levels. You should feed at least three cups of enriched food per day. The brushing depends on the quality of the coat that has been inherited from its parents. On average, the coat should be dense and short in length. Two firm brushing sessions per week should keep it from shedding. Bathing should be a minimal activity. Otherwise, you may remove essential oils from its skin with excessive bathing. Brush its teeth and trims its nails accordingly. It may have different needs for walks depending on the dominant blood. It will love long walks and playing, and an hour of activity should be sufficient if it takes after its Boxer parent. If it takes after the Blue Heeler, it will need many more activities to remain happy. On average of efficient activities with training should keep your Boxer Heeler happy. If its traits are similar to those of the Blue Heeler, then the Heeler will need more care and time when compared to the Boxer. The idea of a diet is also easily manageable with the Boxer Heeler. You may have to add in a bit more time and effort for its exercises. The main thing to take care of with the Boxer Heeler is the training and socialization. Training may also be slightly exerting because of how stubborn and rebellious it can be at its young age. Usually, hybrid breeds are weak and vulnerable to a host of different problems. It may have to go through some gastric and eye problems with age. You should remain in coordination with your local vet to keep your little buddy healthy and happy. It tends to be very energetic and may suffer a few fractures. Breeds Similar to Box Heeler. Lifespan Sociability The price of Box Heeler puppies, as with any crossbred mix, is influenced by the cost of the parental breeds. If the pedigree of the parents is high quality, then the puppies, although hybrids, will be more expensive. If one of the parents is simply a more expensive dog breed, then the price of the puppies may go up, although it will always be much lower than any purebred would be. Another factor that goes into determining the price of your new pet is the breeder from which you buy it. Make sure you find a reputable breeder who treats their dogs well. Although they are not as common as some other designer dog breeds, if this specific dog is the one you are looking for, check out your local animal shelters to rescue your Box Heeler pup instead. Box Heelers may be intolerant of hot weather. The extremely short hair on a box heeler often means that it is more difficult for them to self-regulate their temperatures and they are more prone to sun damage. Dogs with a moderate amount of hair have more protection from harmful rays and can insulate themselves, both from the heat and colder weather. If you have a Box Heeler or are interested in purchasing one, be sure that you can provide areas of shade for them if they are outside during hot days. Boxers were developed in Germany for dirty jobs. Many designer breeds were not bred until recently. This lack of history often means that there is not much information on their shared characteristics. One of the parents of the Box Heeler is the Boxer, initially bred in Germany in the 19th century. Many believe that the German created the dog from a broad mix of other dogs, including Bulldogs, Mastiffs, Terriers, and perhaps Great Danes. The goal was to breed a dog of a moderately large size and muscular build, but an athletic body to work as bull-baiting dogs. Nowadays, Boxers are commonly used as working dogs, having been one of the first breeds trained as a police dog. They also make for wonderful companion dogs and have even been trained as seeing-eye dogs and to aid those with other disabilities. Both parents have strong prey drives bred into them. The Box Heeler often has the same high prey and herding drives associated with both of the parental breeds. They may even try to herd people around the house. This prey drive comes from the cattle herding history of Boxers, and the herding drive is from the Blue Heelers of Australia. Your Box Heeler puppy can make the perfect hunting companion or be ready to herd anything that walks if trained the right way. They are known to be patient dogs, although they are often stubborn and have strong independent streaks inherited from their Blue Heeler parents. Since Boxers may be hostile around new animals and people, it is vital to socialize your Box Heeler puppy early on. By participating in early socialization, you set your dog up for a more calm and content life, easily getting along with new dogs and being less hostile around other animals in general. Both of the dogs involved in parenting the Box Heeler are quite intelligent and inquisitive. To satisfy a Box Heeler, they need physical attention and mental stimulation. Consider taking them to a dog park or training them on dog courses. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Although they can be independent at times, they like to feel as though they are a functioning part of the pack, which is what you and your family will be to them. Box Heelers are quite gentle around things smaller than them as long as they are introduced well. Still, for one territorial animal to get along with another, they need to experience other animals and strangers often. Socialization helps them respond positively to newcomers, no matter how fluffy they are. Look for foods that are high-quality and meant to feed large dogs with high amounts of energy. If they are treated as working dogs, they will need even more food to give them the endurance they need throughout the day. Do not free-feed Box Heelers, to keep them from overconsumption. On average, an active adult will need around 3 cups of high-quality food a day. Try to sync this schedule with your eating schedule, or change it to morning and evening if that is easier. A working dog is fit and accustomed to large energy outputs daily. However, this is taken care of by their daily routine. If the dog is a family pet, they need a moderate amount of exercise a day. Generally, take multiple walks around 30 minutes in length. They should be walked an average of 9 miles a week to keep them happy and healthy. They want to know the right thing to do and how to do that thing well. They can have stubborn and independent streaks. A Blue Heeler can have fluffier coats with moderately long hair. The grooming of a Box Heeler depends on the coat that it has inherited. They often have short hair that is quite dense. Fur like this needs to be brushed at least once a week to limit any shedding. Use a pin brush or a firm bristle brush to get the job done. Bathing a box heeler should only be done if absolutely necessary to keep its skin healthy. It is a cross between the Boxer and the Blue Heeler. The best way to determine the temperment of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross. It is possible you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generational crosses. Please review individual breeds for potential health issues. Boxer Breed Description - Cross 1 The Boxer is a medium to large, short-haired dog breed of mastiff-type, developed in Germany. The coat is smooth and tight-fitting; colors are fawn, brindled, or white, with or without white markings. Boxers are brachycephalic they have broad, short skulls , have a square muzzle, mandibular prognathism an underbite , very strong jaws, and a powerful bite ideal for hanging on to large prey. The Boxer was bred from the Old English Bulldog and the now extinct Bullenbeisser, which became extinct by crossbreeding rather than by a decadence of the breed. The first Boxer club was founded in , with Boxers being first exhibited in a dog show for St. Bernards in Munich the next year. Based on AKC statistics, Boxers held steady as the seventh-most popular breed of dog in the United States for the fourth consecutive year. According to the AKC's website, though, the boxer is now the 11th-most popular dog breed in the United States. Behavior Boxers are a bright, energetic, and playful breed and tend to be very good with children. They are patient and spirited with children, but also protective, making them a popular choice for families. They are active, strong dogs that require adequate exercise to prevent boredom-associated behaviors such as chewing, digging, or licking. Boxers have earned a slight reputation of being "headstrong", which can be related to inappropriate obedience training. Owing to their intelligence and working-breed characteristics, training based on corrections often has limited usefulness. Boxers, like other animals, typically respond better to positive reinforcement techniques such as clicker training, an approach based on operant conditioning and behaviorism, which offers the dog an opportunity to think independently and to problem-solve. The Boxer by nature is not an aggressive or vicious breed. It is an instinctive guardian and can become very attached to its family. Like all dogs, it requires proper socialization. Boxers are generally patient with smaller dogs and puppies, but difficulties with larger adult dogs, especially those of the same sex, may occur. Boxers are generally more comfortable with companionship, in either human or canine form. They are very patient and are great to adopt as family dogs because they are good with children and people of all kinds. The Boxer can make a good house dog, but he must be given a considerable amount of exercise. His short coat requires little care. Health Leading health issues to which Boxers are prone include cancers, heart conditions such as aortic stenosis and arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy the so-called "Boxer cardiomyopathy" , hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, and degenerative myelopathy and epilepsy; other conditions that may be seen are gastric dilatation volvulus also known as bloat , intestinal problems, and allergies although these may be more related to diet than breed. Entropion, a malformation of the eyelid requiring surgical correction, is occasionally seen, and some lines have a tendency toward spondylosis deformans, a fusing of the spine, or dystocia. Other conditions that are less common but occur more often in Boxers than other breeds are hystiocytic ulcerative colitis sometimes called Boxer colitis , an invasive E. Stillbirth is the most frequent cause of death, followed by infection. Mortality due to infection increases significantly with increases in inbreeding. According to a UK Kennel Club health survey, cancer accounts for .The breed is particularly predisposed to mast cell tumours, a cancer of the immune system. Median lifespan was .Responsible breeders use available tests to screen their breeding stock before breeding, and in some cases throughout the life of the dog, in an attempt to minimize the occurrence of these diseases in future generations. As an athletic breed, proper exercise and conditioning is important for the continued health and longevity of the Boxer. Care must be taken not to overexercise young dogs, as this may damage growing bones, but once mature, Boxers can be excellent jogging or running companions. Because of their brachycephalic heads, they do not do well with high heat or humidity, and common sense should prevail when exercising a Boxer in these conditions. Blue Heeler Breed Description - Cross 2 The general appearance is that of a strong compact, symmetrically built working dog, with the ability and willingness to carry out his allotted task however arduous. As the name implies the dog's prime function, and one in which he has no peer, is the control and movement of cattle in both wide open and confined areas. Always alert, extremely intelligent, watchful, courageous and trustworthy, with an implicit devotion to duty making it an ideal dog. The female Blue Heeler measures approximately 43—48 centimetres 17—19 in at the withers, and the male measures about 46—51 centimetres 18—20 in at the withers. The dog should be longer than tall, that is, the length of the body from breast bone to buttocks is greater than the height at the withers, in a ratio of 10 to 9. An Blue Heeler in good condition weighs around 18—25 kilograms 40—55 lb. A puppy whose colored hair has not yet developed will grow through the puppy's white coat as it matures. There are two accepted coat colors, red and blue. Blue dogs can be blue, blue mottled, or blue speckled with tan on the legs and chest and white markings and a black patch or "mask" on one or both sides of the head. Red dogs are evenly speckled with solid red markings and similarly to the blue dogs can have a brown red patch "mask" on one or both sides of the head and sometimes on the body. Both red dogs and blue dogs are born white except for any solid-colored body or face markings and the red or black hairs show from around 4-weeks of age as they grow and mature. The distinctive adult coloration is the result of black or red hairs closely interspersed through a predominantly white coat. This is not merle coloration a speckled effect that has associated health issues , but rather the result of the ticking gene. A number of breeds show ticking, which is the presence of color through white areas, though the overall effect depends on other genes that will modify the size, shape and density of the ticking. In addition to the primary coloration, an Blue Heeler displays some patches of solid or near-solid color. In both red and blue dogs, the most common are masks over one or both eyes, a white tip to the tail, a solid spot at the base of the tail, and sometimes solid spots on the body. The mask consists of a black patch over one or both eyes for the blue coat color or a red patch over one or both eyes for the red coat color. Depending on whether one or both eyes have a patch, these are called, respectively, "single" or "half" mask and "double" or "full" mask. Dogs without a mask are called plain-faced. Any of these are acceptable according to the breed standard. In conformation shows, even markings are preferred over uneven markings. Behavior When on home ground, the Blue Heeler is an affectionate and playful pet. However, it is reserved with people it does not know and naturally cautious in new situations. Its attitude to strangers makes it an excellent guard dog when trained for this task, and it can be socialised to become accustomed to a variety of people from an early age as a family pet. It is good with older, considerate children, but will herd people by nipping at their heels, particularly younger children who run and squeal. By the time puppies are weaned, they should have learned that the company of people is pleasurable, and that responding to cues from a person is rewarding. The bond that this breed can create with its owner is strong and will leave the dog feeling protective towards the owner, typically resulting in the dog's never being too far from the owner's side. The Blue Heeler can be the friendliest of companions although it is quick to respond to the emotions of its owners, and may defend them without waiting for a command. The ACD was originally bred to move reluctant cattle by biting, and it will bite if treated harshly. The Blue Heeler's protective nature and tendency to nip at heels can be dangerous as the dog grows into an adult if unwanted behaviors are left unchecked. While an Blue Heeler generally works silently, it will bark in alarm or to attract attention. It has a distinctive intense, high-pitched bark. Barking can be a sign of boredom or frustration, although research has shown that pet dogs increase their vocalisation when raised in a noisy environment. It responds well to familiar dogs, but when multiple dogs are present, establishing a pecking order can trigger aggression. It is not a breed that lives in a pack with other dogs. Health The Blue Heeler carries recessive piebald alleles that produce white in the coat and skin and are linked to congenital hereditary deafness, though it is possible that there is a multi-gene cause for deafness in a dog with the piebald pigment genes. Around 2. The Blue Heeler is one of the dog breeds affected by progressive retinal atrophy. It has the most common form, progressive rod-cone degeneration PRCD , a condition that causes the rods and cones in the retina of the eye to deteriorate later in life, resulting in blindness. PRCD is an autosomal recessive trait and a dog can be a carrier of the affected gene without developing the condition. Hip dysplasia is not common in the breed, although it occurs sufficiently often for many breeders to have their breeding stock tested. The Cattle Dog has a number of inherited conditions, but most of these are not common. Hereditary polioencephalomyelopathy of the Blue Heeler is a very rare condition caused by an inherited biochemical defect. Dogs identified with the condition were completely paralysed within their first year. Based on a sample of 69 still-living dogs, the most common health issues noted by owners were musculoskeletal spondylosis, elbow dysplasia, and arthritis and reproductive pyometra, infertility, and false pregnancy , and blindness. A study of dogs diagnosed at Veterinary Colleges in the United States and Canada over a thirty-year period described fractures, lameness and cruciate ligament tears as the most common conditions in the Blue Heelers treated. Height: 17 - 20 inches at the shoulder Weight: 31 - 35 lb. Lifespan: 13 - 15 years Boxer Blue Heeler Mix - Boxheeler Personality Like all hybrids, you have to look to the parents to get a good read on how they will likely behave. This could obviously make for a very powerful and strong breed that will have a lot of energy and a high prey drive. Both of these parent breeds have higher energy and a very strong prey and drive instincts. They should get along well with other animals if exposed and socialized properly as well. They are somewhat capable of independence, or alone time when the house is noisy or full. 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 Blue Heeler might be prone to Cancer, heart problems, hypothyroidism, bloat, deafness, eye problems, patellar luxation, Note that these are just common problems in both breeds. Both of these dogs have rather shorter hair and should be pretty easy to groom. The Blue Heeler will probably shed more, but it still has shorter hair. Be prepared to brush them a few times a week. Either way, get ready to invest in a good vacuum if you want to keep your floors clean! Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. Never tie your dog up outside - that is inhumane and not fair to him. What are the exercise requirements? Plan on taking them for extremely long walks and hikes to keep their energy level down. This exercise will keep them from being destructive. A tired dog is a good dog. A tired dog is a good dog though. What are the training requirements? This is an intelligent dog that will be a little bit challenging to train. They are going to want to take the alpha position and need someone with a firm, strong, hand that can let them know their place. The best thing you can do is break the sessions into shorter daily sessions to keep their attention span higher. It might have a prey drive and be disposed to running for and chasing small prey, but if handled properly this can be managed. 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.
Similar services:
golden retriever puppy plush - They are noticeably shorter than regular German Shepherds and they are prone to some health issues. Despite their condition, dwarf GSDs are lovable dogs. Dwarf GSDs are typically associated with the faulty breeding techniques employed by backyard breeders or puppy mills. Their unique genetic condition is due to their parents being carriers of a certain type of gene. Since backyard breeders and puppy mills do not impose strict health screening tests for their parent dogs, dwarf GSDs are common in their litter. It is easy to spot a dwarf GSD. In fact, signs are evident as early as their first few months of age. However, keep in mind that dwarf German Shepherds are entirely different from miniature German Shepherds. Are Dwarf German Shepherds Purebred? Despite their short stature, dwarf German Shepherds are purebred. Through and through, these dogs share the same genetics as regular GSDs. You can have a dwarf German Shepherd genetically tested, and with certainty, it will pass as a purebred GSD. The main difference is that dwarf GSDs are carriers of a gene that causes canine pituitary dwarfism. These dwarf dogs can only be born if both their parents are carriers of this gene. In an interesting report from Vice News, an experienced German Shepherd breeder, Darien Northcote, was once surprised when one of his dogs gave birth to a dwarf GSD puppy. Despite breeding only purebred GSDs since , Northcote still stumbled upon a dwarf pooch! That said, unless breeders pre-screen their parent dogs, there will always be a chance of having a dwarf GSD puppy in their litter. Dwarf German Shepherd vs. On the other hand, miniature German Shepherds are crossbred dogs that are smaller than regular German Shepherds. This confusion only stems from their striking similarities in terms of size and appearance. But their similarities end there. Aside from their genetic makeup, their health differences dictate most of their differences. Dwarf German Shepherds are likely to have visible issues on its body such as alopecia and small testes. Meanwhile, miniature GSDs are usually free from all these. Another thing to note is that if you compare these dogs closely, you may notice that some dwarf German Shepherds will slightly resemble the appearance of a fox. Except for their stature, dwarf German Shepherds look very similar to regular German Shepherds. However, there are still many clear physical signs that distinguish one from the other. Pituitary dwarfism in German Shepherds is accompanied by some peculiar health issues. As a result, as these dogs grow older, physical differences become more pronounced. Two to three months old During this stage, there will be a noticeable slowing down in the rate of growth of a dwarf German Shepherd. Although they might still be around the same size as other GSDs in their litter, they will typically be left out, size-wise, around this age. Unless you want to specifically get a dwarf German Shepherd, it is recommended to shop or adopt dogs that are older than three months old. This way, signs of dwarfism, if present, are more evident. Three months to one year old Around the age of three months old to one year old, dwarf German Shepherds will be noticeably shorter than other puppies in their litter. They will also retain their soft puppy coats for far longer compared to their siblings. Once the shedding of puppy coats occurs in dwarf GSDs, the process will be noticeably uneven. These dogs will typically retain voluminous amounts of coat on their heads and hocks. Similarly, the puppy teeth of dwarf GSDs will fall out during this time. However, their adult teeth will develop later than usual. In fact, there are even cases where some dwarf GSD puppies do not develop any adult teeth at all. In addition to these, signs of overly blackened and scaly skin will also begin to show around this age. Moreover, gender-specific issues will also show around this time. For male dwarf Shepherds, reproductive organs will be smaller than normal. On the other hand, for females, the first heat cycle is usually delayed or even prevented totally. One to four years old From one year old onwards, the physical differences that set dwarf GSDs apart from regular GSDs become more obvious. Some of the major changes begin with issues in their spine. Spinal issues in dwarf GSDs typically target the first two vertebrae in their cervical spine. Unfortunately, these issues cause excruciating pain for the dog and can sometimes lead to paralysis. As a result, despite their limited full-grown size, dwarf GSDs will continue growing at a slow and steady rate. Around this age, most dwarf German Shepherds also experience severe alopecia. This causes the majority of their coat to fall off, leaving a big portion of their skin exposed. It is also worth noting that the proportions of a dwarf German Shepherd, for the most part, are on par with normal. This means they will appear as a scaled-down version of a regular GSD rather than a dog with disproportionate body parts. On the other hand, these dogs usually range from 35 to 50 pounds in terms of weight. For reference, full-grown dwarf German Shepherds are about the same size as regular five-month-old German Shepherds. However, take note that these numbers are only meant to give you a rough estimate of how big dwarf GSDs get. Individual measurements will vary for every dog. Pituitary dwarfism in canines is mostly genetic. This means that it is acquired entirely from the genetic material that gets passed on from parent dogs to their offspring. To better understand how dwarfism in German Shepherds is passed on, you must first be familiar with two useful terms: non-carriers and carriers. German Shepherds who carry only one copy of the recessive gene will not turn out as a dwarf. They will live and grow as typical Shepherds. On the other hand, German Shepherds with two copies of the recessive gene will turn out as dwarves. That said, a dwarf GSD can only be born if both its parents are carriers. Remember, this does not mean both parents must be dwarves to have a dwarf GSD puppy. How to Prevent Dwarfism in German Shepherds? Pituitary dwarfism in German Shepherds is a life-threatening condition that has an easy solution — prevention. The best way to do this is by screening parent dogs. There is a readily available DNA test that can be performed on parent dogs before breeding them. This test is the result of nearly 15 years of intensive research. It is reliable, safe, and yields accurate results. A similar test is also performed by Antagene, a research facility based in four different countries. Simply put, the number one thing to keep in mind when preventing dwarf GSDs is not to breed two carrier parents. As long as this rule is followed, no dwarf German Shepherds will be born. In theory, this is the most surefire way to eradicate pituitary dwarfism in German Shepherds. Photo from littleshepherdbigworld IG Dogs born with pituitary dwarfism suffer from malfunctioning pituitary glands. As a result, dwarf dogs do not produce enough hormones that are needed for their growth. A well-known solution to this is by supplementing a dwarf dog with hormones from external sources. However, the result of such treatment is not guaranteed. It will oftentimes lessen the severe symptoms, but it will rarely cure the root of the problem. According to a study from Utrecht University, supplementing a dwarf German Shepherd with synthetic thyroid hormones yielded positive results. The process was able to lessen symptoms. Moreover, dwarf GSDs in the experiment were able to grow their adult teeth and coat. That said, this kind of treatment is not perfect. The most common side effects of synthetic hormone provision are skin conditions such as cysts and hot spots. In general, there are no dog shows for dwarf dogs; however, there are a couple of other competitions available for them. While dwarf dogs are not known for performing well in competitions, these options are always open to them. After all, competitions are not just about winning. All of these competitions have different rules and regulations as to what kind of dog can join. Some are exclusive to a particular dog breed while some are open to all. On average, a dwarf German Shepherd will only live until three to four years old. Due to their many health complications and imperfect bodily defenses, their lifespan is significantly shorter than a regular GSD. Here are some of the most common health issues in dwarf German Shepherds: Alopecia: Alopecia in dogs is the partial or complete loss of hair. This condition may be caused by ringworms, mites, and other fungal infections. In the case of dwarf GSDs, alopecia is due to hormonal imbalance. Secondary Hypothyroidism: Secondary hypothyroidism is a health condition caused by the destruction of pituitary thyrotrophs. Dogs with this condition are prone to thinning hair, cold sensitivity, fatigue, and more. Renal Failure: Renal failure is another consequence of dwarfism. Symptoms of this condition include vomiting, diarrhea, blood in urine, and decreased appetite. This health condition is characterized by the late eruption of adult teeth. Taking all of these into consideration, it is obvious that dwarf German Shepherds are not at all healthy dogs. Their condition is serious and life-threatening. While there are available treatments, positive results are not always guaranteed. In most cases, dwarf German Shepherds do not live long enough to reach behavioral maturity. Due to the hormonal abnormalities brought by their dwarfism, these dogs also suffer from a handful of temperamental issues. At around one to four years old, a dwarf Shepherd will show signs of uncontrolled behavior. This ranges from unnecessary aggression to severe separation anxiety. Moreover, dwarf GSDs may also become territorial towards other dogs and strangers. Aside from these, dwarf Shepherds are not impossible to tame. They may require a bit of effort and attention but they are certainly manageable in most cases. If anything, German Shepherd breeders are preventing dwarves from being born in the first place. However, there are still many dwarf GSDs from backyard breeders and puppy mills. While some will try to sell dwarves as a miniature GSD, others will opt to put it up for adoption. They were initially bred as herding and guard dogs. There are no official records of when pituitary dwarfism first appeared in German Shepherds. Dwarf German Shepherds are linked with faulty breeding techniques employed by puppy mills or backyard breeders. Image Credit: Werner B. They have built a reputation for being loyal, loving, and hard-working. They form strong bonds with their humans and thrive in family life. German Shepherds are versatile working dogs, naturally vigilant and protective, with a strong sense of responsibility. They excel as guard dogs and have been used by the military and police as service, search, and rescue dogs. Most dogs with pituitary dwarfism are euthanized and do not reach their fifth birthdays. The stunted growth of the dwarf German Shepherd is one of the most noticeable traits of this dog. However, their problems go much deeper than just their size. Dwarf German Shepherds suffer from severe growth issues, such as the abnormal development of the joints, spine, and bones. As a result, they risk experiencing pain and instability throughout their lives. Some dogs also go on to experience paralysis in their lifetime. They Suffer From Many Health Problems Dwarf German Shepherds can develop coat and skin problems; their soft puppy coat will shed, but they rarely develop an adult coat, and their skin becomes rough and scaly. They can also suffer from secondary hypothyroidism and renal failure. The hormonal abnormalities might also result in temperamental and behavioral problems such as aggression and extreme separation anxiety. They Can Be Pricey While not many owners go out looking to purchase a dwarf German Shepherd, some breeders might unscrupulously sell you one and advertise it as a miniature German Shepherd. They Have to Receive Treatment Pituitary dwarfism is treated with hormone therapy, and it is necessary if your dog is to live beyond adolescence. Thyroid and growth hormone treatments are also recommended. They Can Lead Fulfilling, Happy Lives Despite everything they go through, these dogs are exactly like any other dog; they love their families and are utterly devoted to their owners. Dwarf German Shepherds are unique dogs that require a special type of care from their owners. They have many health and behavioral problems that can make their care challenging, and their lives are short and sometimes filled with pain. There are treatments available, but they are still in their infancy. They need a very special person to provide the life they deserve, for however long that life may be. Conclusion The dwarf German Shepherd is a beautiful dog that looks like a puppy for their entire life. Behind this adorable exterior lie years of treatment and pain. They can be challenging to own, but dogs with dwarfism can lead full lives as long as their families know exactly what to expect. Related Reads:. I wondered if you could buy a German Shepherd, which stayed as cute as a puppy — forever. German Shepherds can be small. However, they likely suffer from pituitary dwarfism , a rare genetic condition. I can see why it can get confusing. However, this article is solely about the dwarf German Shepherd, and I have to warn you what you will learn may break your heart. It occurs primarily in the German Shepherd breed and its relatives, for example, the Saarloos Wolfdog and the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog. So what exactly is the pituitary gland? This is a pea-sized endocrine gland found at the base of the brain and plays a significant role in regulating vital body functions and general well-being. Pituitary dwarfism associated with growth hormone deficiency in German Shepherd dogs has been seen for decades, and dwarfs are born worldwide. However, the condition has been reported to have recently spread quite rapidly in Europe, and this is for two reasons: Through the breeding of unsuspected carriers. The problem is that German Shepherds that are carriers of the recessive gene do not have any visible symptoms, so the reputable breeder would be none the wiser. Unscrupulous breeders realized that they could sell a small German Shepherd more expensively if they tried to pass it off as a smaller version of a purebred. This is also the main reason for the confusion between a German Shepherd suffering from dwarfism and the Miniature German Shepherd crossbreed. Other Causes of Pituitary Dwarfism We have learned that pituitary dwarfism in dogs is caused by the lack of growth hormone produced by the pituitary gland due to a genetic disorder. But what else can cause dog dwarfism? Tumor Cysts Infection These other causes are also due to the lack of growth hormone produced by the pituitary gland. Is Dwarfism Common in German Shepherds? Dwarfism is common in German Shepherds 2 to 6 months old when symptoms of slow growth will be evident. No studies have confirmed the actual percentage of dwarf German Shepherds. Other susceptible breeds are Border Collies, Labradors, and Weimaraners. Pituitary dwarfism in German Shepherds must be taken very seriously when breeding as this is an incurable incapacitating disease that we could easily prevent. As long as mating between two mutated gene carriers is stopped, no dwarf German Shepherds will be born. It is one of the few tests available for genetic conditions. I discovered that in the Netherlands, Dutch law now compels German Shepherd dog breeders to use this genetic testing. If this DNA test were mandatory for all German Shepherd breeding and the implementation of a correct breeding policy, then pituitary dwarfism would be completely eradicated. Unfortunately, screening all potential German Shepherd breeding is impracticable and seldom happens. You could also argue that screening is unnecessary due to the low prevalence of the disease, even though we have the statistics for the number of carriers. Some of the ones that survive are often sold, sometimes before the condition is recognized. There is also the cruel breeding practice whereby unscrupulous breeders operating puppy farms often called puppy mills care more about profits than puppies. I found this sad little story of a rescued puppy from a commercial breeding facility in Indiana, whereby a German Shepherd puppy was suffering from dwarfism. Signs of a German Shepherd suffering from dwarfism are their slow growth rate, which usually becomes evident in puppies between weeks old. They will keep their puppy coat for longer in their first year until they eventually go bald. The head and lower legs usually remain with fur. Dwarf puppies will retain their puppy coat for much longer than healthier littermates. However, they will lose the coat in their first year as the dog suffers from alopecia and will become bald, except for the head and lower legs. Pituitary dwarfism in German Shepherds is a severe illness, and clinical signs are not limited to physical appearance. There are also many other hidden problems that a dwarf German Shepherd may suffer. These are some of the severe symptoms: Bacterial skin infections due to alopecia. Renal failure due to underdeveloped liver and kidneys. Cardiovascular problems. Slow and dull intelligence to an underactive thyroid gland. Undescended testes in male dogs. Small testes and penis in male dogs. Irregular or absent heat cycles in females. Neurological symptoms due to abnormal cervical vertebrae. Secondary Hypothyroidism underactive thyroid gland. Delayed dental eruption. Puppies often have a shrill bark. It may have the appearance of a fox. According to the University of Utrecht, without proper treatment, the long-term survival rate of German Shepherds with dwarfism is poor, and many will not live to more than 3 to 4 years of age. Although your German Shepherd may be displaying obvious visible signs of dwarfism, the diagnosis of pituitary dwarfism in dogs is via endocrine tests blood and urine. Imaging tests may also be conducted to check for cysts. Treatment New methods of treating dwarfs have also become available in the last few years, mostly involving replenishing the missing hormones. There is no canine growth hormone, but these are some other options available: Porcine pig growth hormone. This is expensive, and the results differ. These are steroidal drugs that stimulate the production of growth hormones. Thyroid hormones, e. However, results vary. Sadly there is no treatment to cure them. Note: Be cautious about potential impacts when different breeds are allowed to breed for aesthetic reasons. Final Thoughts Suppose you came here looking for a miniature German Shepherd, and this article has melted your heart. In that case, you can contact The Saartje Foundation in the Netherlands to help adopt and rehome a dwarf German Shepherd. Please be aware that it will involve a potentially very high cost because the dog has particular health needs. You can also contact them confidentially if you have a dwarf dog that you feel you cannot keep, as the foundation has a small number of experienced people in various countries willing to give a dwarf a new home. Related Posts You May Like:. Life Span Did You Know? A Miniature German Shepherd is a cross between a German Shepherd and a smaller dog breed that is meant to result in a smaller version of a German Shepherd. Although these Mini Shepherds can inherit any combination of traits from their parent breeds, they tend to be energetic, intelligent dogs that bond closely with their families and are affectionate with them. Miniature German Shepherds make great family dogs. They may be hardworking while on a job, but they have a playful spirit while relaxing with their family. They also tend to get along well with children and other dogs in the family. Although they tend to do well with smaller pets they have been raised with, they do have a high prey drive. Mini German Shepherds are also protective and alert. They will bark to alert you and will be naturally suspicious of strangers. Proper socialization and training early on can help make sure barking does not become a nuisance and will help them open up to strangers once introduced. Miniature German Shepherds are highly adaptable dogs. They tend to be a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. But, they can adapt just as well to apartments as long as they get the exercise, mental stimulation, and attention they need. They do well in most climates, but are sensitive to heat. Because they bond so closely with their families and want to be near them, they do not do well with long periods of alone time. Mixed-breed dogs can sometimes be healthier than purebred dogs because of genetic diversity. However, this is not a guarantee. They could inherit no conditions common to the parent breeds, but they could also inherit some or all of them. So, make sure you are asking them about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. For the Miniature German Shepherd, potential health conditions to be aware of include progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism, epilepsy, and hip dysplasia. Because of their body shape, they are also at risk for bloat. Although Miniature German Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please, they can be difficult for first-time dog owners to handle on their own. Their high energy, working dog instincts, thirst for learning, and need for structured training can be overwhelming for first-time dog owners. Because of this, puppy training classes are recommended if you are not an experienced dog owner. They help reinforce training, strengthen the bond you have with your dog, and also offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. In general, a Miniature German Shepherd will have a coat that sheds moderately year-round and heavier seasonally. Brushing a few times a week, daily brushing during seasonal shedding, and the occasional bath is usually sufficient for this coat type. If a Miniature German Shepherd has a Mini Poodle parent, there is a chance they could inherit the low-shedding Poodle coat. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Although good dental care for dogs is essential, it is often overlooked. This is one of the reasons why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in older dogs. You can help protect your pup from painful dental diseases later in life by brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day and keeping up with regular vet visits. Although a Miniature German Shepherd may be smaller than a German Shepherd, they are still a high-energy dog with working dog instincts. In addition to having a job to do, these dogs also need daily walks plus playtime and time to run to be happy and healthy. If they like it, swimming can be a good low-impact activity while they are still growing. Once puppies finish growing , you can try higher-impact activities like hiking, running, training for dog sports, and more to see what they like. A fully-grown Miniature German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs about 50 pounds. There can be some variation depending on the other parent breed in the cross, but meeting the mother dog in-person can give you a better idea of what size to expect in a Mini GSD. A Miniature German Shepherd generally lives for years. If the other parent crossed with a German Shepherd is a Standard Poodle, the result is a Shepadoodle. Featured Miniature German Shepherd Article. Dwarf German Shepherds can have a range of health issues. As Antagene explains, pituitary dwarfism is not a benign condition that simply results in a smaller than normal German Shepherd dog. It is a condition that is linked to a problem with the pituitary gland where the gland itself fails to grow and develop properly. It controls the activities of other glands in the endocrine system and that in turn controls growth throughout the body. The pituitary gland and its subordinate glands secrete important hormones that tell the other parts of the body what to do and how much to grow and when to stop growing. And many important functions such as metabolism and reproduction also do not happen as they should. This is basically what is happening when a German Shepherd dog inherits pituitary dwarfism. As Merck Veterinary Manual explains, pituitary dwarfism is considered to be a juvenile-onset canine disease. In other words, it starts in puppyhood. There are two main reasons why the pituitary gland may stop forming properly in puppyhood. The first reason is that the growth is paused because of a tumor forms on the gland itself. The second reason is that the gland itself simply does not form properly. Pituitary dwarfism affects more German Shepherd dogs than any other dog breed, although certain other breeds may occasionally develop the condition as well. Pituitary dwarfism can affect male and female German Shepherd puppies equally. What Happens to a Dwarf German Shepherd? There are a number of concerning health impacts to watch for when a German Shepherd puppy is born with pituitary dwarfism. The condition is visible very early in life — usually by the age of two months old. In most cases, the puppy is not expected to live any longer than five years old and may pass at a younger age. Two to three months old The German Shepherd puppy starts to slow down in their growth. This becomes visible around the age of two months as littermates keep getting bigger and the dwarf German Shepherd puppy stops growing at an equal pace. Three months to one year old The dwarf German Shepherd puppy does not shed out the puppy coat like their littermates but retains the soft puppy coat. The coat may become increasingly sparse and, in time, shed out somewhat, but the adult coat does not grow in. Rather, the skin becomes scaly and blackened. The coat that remains if any is still soft like the puppy coat. In most cases, the puppy will retain a larger amount of fur only on the head and hocks. The puppy teeth may or may not fall out but the adult teeth often fail to grow in. If they do come in, they will be late. For male puppies, the reproductive organs will be smaller than normal and the testes may not form properly or descend. For female puppies, the first heat cycle may be delayed or prevented. One year to four years old Even with a life expectancy that is typically five years or less, a dwarf German Shepherd puppy can easily take up to four years to finish what growing they can do. Significant neurological and spinal issues can be present due to the failure of the spinal column to form normally, especially in the first two vertebras in the upper cervical spine. Another unfortunate side effect of pituitary dwarfism in German Shepherd dogs is anxiety or aggression. Vice tells the true story of a litter of six GSD puppies, of which three were born with the condition. Dwarf GSDs that develop either of these conditions can behave in very aggressive ways towards people and other animals. Pituitary dwarfism is what is called an inherited genetic autosomal recessive disorder. What this means in simple language is that both German Shepherd parent dogs must contribute a copy of the gene in order for a puppy to have a chance of inheriting pituitary dwarfism. The fact that the incidence of pituitary dwarfism in the German Shepherd dog breed today is estimated to be as high as 20 percent is telling. Many German Shepherd dogs are carriers of the disease. However, as the Veterinary Information Network VIN explains, there is a pre-breeding genetic screening test that can take a blood draw and detect whether a potential parent dog is a carrier of the gene. If the dog is verified as a carrier, that dog should not be bred. This is the only reliable way to prevent a puppy from inheriting pituitary dwarfism. These types of breeders are much less likely to take the time and go to the expense of having pre-breeding genetic screening tests performed before permitting their dogs to mate. Even if a breeder is absolutely sure their dog comes from a purebred lineage that does not carry the gene, as this Vice story illustrates, it is still vital to have the pre-screening health test performed. German Shepherd puppies that have pituitary dwarfism are likely to suffer from a wide variety of health issues throughout their short lifespans. However, not every puppy that is a dwarf German Shepherd will necessarily have the exact same set of health symptoms. To that point, a puppy that receives expert veterinary care and appropriate treatment is likely to experience less severe health symptoms along the way. There is no cure for pituitary dwarfism in any dog breed. But there are treatments that can ease symptoms and in some measure supplement the vital hormones that the malformed pituitary gland is not producing naturally. According to GSD Pituitary Dwarfism, there are two ways that pituitary dwarfism can show up in a dog. The dog is a genetic carrier only When a dog is a genetic carrier of pituitary dwarfism only, this means that dog received only one copy of the recessive gene for the condition. But carriers, even though they do not show any signs or symptoms of the disease itself, they can pass it on to their puppies if the other parent dog also is a carrier and also passes the gene on to a puppy. The dog has active pituitary dwarfism When a dog gets two copies of the pituitary dwarfism gene, that is when you will see the health symptoms that we addressed earlier in this article. Not only is it likely that a dwarf German Shepherd puppy will grow up to be sterile not able to breed but these dogs should never be permitted to breed. Because dogs that inherit pituitary dwarfism have malformed and malfunctioning pituitary glands, the primary treatment involves supplementing the missing hormones with artificial sources. By supplementing with artificial synthetic versions of some of the missing hormones, a dog with pituitary dwarfism may have less severe symptoms of the condition. As ResearchGate explains, treating dwarf GSD puppies with synthetic thyroid hormones can help ease symptoms and promote the growth of the coat and adult teeth. However, it is important to note that supplementing with synthetic hormones can also introduce side effects that may cause further discomfort to the dog. Skin conditions, hot spots, and cysts are some of the many side effects associated with these therapies. Another treatment that can somewhat promote more normal growth is to delay the spay or neuter procedure. However, to avoid any risk that the dwarf GSD might inadvertently mate with another dog and pass along the condition, the owner must be willing to be extra-vigilant about keeping the dog away from other intact dogs. As well, by choosing to delay the spay or neuter procedure , an intact dwarf German Shepherd dog that develops severe anxiety or aggression may have even worse bouts of these symptoms, which could present a danger to the owner as well as the community. Daily Life With a Dwarf German Shepherd Dog More than a few dwarf German Shepherd dogs have garnered significant followings on social media for their cute perpetually puppy-like appearance. This has helped to raise awareness of pituitary dwarfism in dogs as well. With careful breeding, pituitary dwarfism in GSD dogs can be prevented. You can watch him running and playing and snuggling and doing all the things German Shepherd dogs do. While his condition, pituitary dwarfism, is rare in most species, it affects up to 20 percent of all German Shepherd dogs according to the Saartje Foundation.